A Guide to the Online Master's Degree in Computer Science

Earning your master’s degree in computer science can be an excellent way for you to advance your career, pursue more senior-level roles, and increase your earning potential. It can also be an opportunity to gain formalised education when you’re interested in changing careers and already have some technical skills, like programming. 

Enrolling in an online master’s degree in computer science programme tends to be a more flexible option than attending an in-person graduate programme. You won’t have to relocate, and you may even be able to keep working full-time if your schedule allows. What’s more, many renowned universities now offer computer science degrees online, so you can still enjoy a high-quality education. 

Explore what it takes to earn your online master’s degree in computer science, the benefits of these programmes, and what you can do with the degree. 

Online master’s degrees in computer science

In-person master’s degrees in computer science take around two years to complete when you can attend full-time. With a similar study commitment, online master’s degrees can take less time to earn, or you can continue working full-time whilst going to university at your own pace. For example, the Master of Computer Science from the University of Illinois on Coursera takes between one and three years to complete, depending on how much time you can dedicate to the programme. 

Online tuition vs in-person tuition 

Online master’s programmes in computer science may be more affordable than attending an in-person programme. You won’t have to budget for relocation, and tuition tends to be less expensive because the overhead for these programmes is lower. 

For instance, the total cost of the full-time in-person Master of Computer Science at Sharda University is ₹2,47,566 [1]. Compare that to the cost of the online Master of Computer Science Engineering delivered by NIBS, which costs much less at ₹65,500 [2]. As an in-person learner, you may also have to give up work opportunities to relocate or attend full-time. 

Coursework

Online programmes emphasise the same coursework you’d take as an in-person learner. Not only will you take several core courses in fundamental topics, but you will also be able to complete a series of specialisations based on your interests. 

Online computer science master's specialisations may include subjects such as: 

• Software engineering

• Computer systems

• Data science

• Algorithms and computation

• Artificial intelligence

• Machine learning

• Computer networks

• Programming

• Cloud computing

• Cybersecurity

Depending on your programme, you may need to complete a capstone course, a final programming project to showcase what you’ve learned. Often, capstones are determined by area, so what you specialise in will determine the focus of your project. 

Benefits of an online master’s in computer science 

Some of the benefits of an online master’s in computer science include increased scheduling flexibility, accelerated pace, and lower tuition. Additional benefits may include the following: 

• University choice: Increasingly, well-known and well-regarded universities offer online master’s degrees in computer science, meaning you have more choices when it comes to these programme types without the cost of relocating or upending your life to pursue higher education. 

• Self directed learning: Studying online requires you to effectively manage your time and motivate yourself. Building this highly desirable skill can help as you enter the job market.

• Continue working: Whether you have a part-time or full-time job, you can often continue working around your studies. It can help you pay for the cost of graduate school whilst gaining valuable professional experience. 

• Networking: Many online computer science master’s programmes encourage and foster opportunities to network with your instructors and peers. Even though you may be based elsewhere, you can still engage with your classmates and build your network in meaningful ways. 

What can you do with an online master’s in computer science?

Master’s degree holders often see positive financial returns on the degree, and computer science is an in-demand subject both in India and abroad. You may explore available jobs in the public and private sectors and across various industries, from data science to cybersecurity. With your degree, you may qualify for a host of more advanced roles, including managerial positions. 

Compare the base salaries for the roles below, which often may offer the prospect of additional compensation such as bonuses or stock options. Whilst some of the roles do not require a master’s degree, you may find that you can earn a higher salary or achieve a more senior-level title with your master’s degree. 

*All salary data sourced from Glassdoor, October 2024, and represents the base salary, without bonuses, profit-sharing, and other forms of additional compensation.

PhD in computer science

Earning your online master’s in computer science can be a stepping stone to advancing to earn your PhD in the subject. PhDs, or doctorates, are terminal degrees, meaning they represent the highest education you can achieve in a subject. 

Interested in switching careers to computer science but don’t have a background in the subject? The University of Pennsylvania’s Master of Computer and Information Technology offers an Ivy League education specifically designed for students without any prior computer science training. Get a head start by learning a programming language, like Python, on Coursera.

Finding the best online master’s computer science degree for you 

As with any choice about advanced education, you’ll want to find a degree programme that aligns with your larger educational and career goals. As you explore online master’s degrees in computer science, pay attention to the following parameters:

Specialisations 

At the master’s level, you have the option of specialising in an area of computer science. Your options may differ from school to school. So as you consider programmes, it’s a good idea to pay attention to the available options and make sure they align with your interests and goals. 

Common specialisations include: 

• Artificial intelligence

• Data science

• Programming languages

• Computer engineering

• Network systems

• Information security 

Flexibility 

Online programmes often differ. Some may offer virtual classes that meet at a set time each week, whilst others offer asynchronous classes you can complete on your own time. Review each potential programme to understand how you’ll finish your coursework in a way that best suits your needs. 

University Grants Commission (UGC) approved

A UGC-approved course has typically been evaluated for providing a quality education. In recent years, more and more UGC-approved institutions offer online degrees. Verify your university choice to make sure you’re earning your degree from a reputable institution.

Learn more about an online master’s computer science degree 

An online master’s degree in computer science could be an excellent choice to earn your postgraduate degree in a flexible way whilst saving money and working at your own pace. Consider pursuing your online master’s degree in computer science from accredited universities listed on Coursera. You can also advance your knowledge through a Professional Certificate from IBM in DevOps and Software Engineering, for example. You may also explore Full Stack Software Development or Back-End Development from Meta. You’ll find these options and more on Coursera.