M.A. in Computer Science

Entry Requirements for postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

Academic Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The minimum academic requirement for postgraduate admission is typically a bachelor's degree with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 60% or above.

English Language Proficiency Requirements: 

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 is required with no individual band score below 6.0

• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test): The minimum overall score required is 71.  

• DET (Duolingo English Test): Kent State University accepts the DET, with a minimum score of 100.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum overall score of 50 is required.

Kent State University offers a range of scholarships to international students to help them manage the cost of tuition and make their education more affordable. 

1. Global Scholarship: The Global Scholarship is a merit-based award for undergraduate international students. It ranges from $2,000 to $7,500 per year and is renewable based on academic performance. Applicants are automatically considered for this scholarship upon admission.

2. International Freshman Scholarship: This scholarship is designed for first-time, incoming international undergraduate students. It provides awards ranging from $4,000 to $10,000 per year. Students are automatically considered when they apply for admission.

3. International Transfer Student Scholarship: Transfer students from international institutions are eligible for this scholarship, which offers awards from $4,000 to $9,500 per year. The scholarship is based on academic merit, and applicants are considered upon admission.

4. Kent State University Honors College Scholarship: Exceptional international undergraduate students may apply for the Honors College Scholarship. It covers in-state tuition and offers additional funding for research and study abroad opportunities.

5. Graduate Assistantships: Kent State University offers graduate assistantships to international students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees. These assistantships provide a stipend, tuition waiver, and valuable professional experience.

6. Graduate Dean's Award for Excellence: This award is for outstanding international graduate students and covers partial tuition costs. Eligibility and application details vary by department and program.

7. Global Diversity Scholarship: Kent State recognizes the value of diversity on campus. This scholarship, awarded to incoming undergraduate international students, provides $4,000 per year for up to four years.

8. Other Scholarships: Kent State University also offers various department-specific scholarships and awards. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes, so students should check with their academic departments.

9. External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities, such as government scholarships, private foundation scholarships, and international organizations' funding programs.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Kent State University offers a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Computer Science program designed to prepare graduates for dynamic and rewarding careers in the ever-evolving field of computer science. Graduates of this program are equipped with a strong foundation in computer science theory and practical skills, making them highly sought after in various industries and sectors.  

1. Software Development: Graduates can pursue careers as software developers, where they design, develop, and maintain software applications and systems. They may work in industries such as technology, finance, healthcare, and gaming.

2. Data Science and Analytics: The program's focus on data analysis and programming provides graduates with the skills needed to work as data scientists or analysts. They can extract valuable insights from data to drive business decisions.

3. Cybersecurity: With the increasing importance of cybersecurity, graduates can become cybersecurity specialists who protect organizations from cyber threats. They may work in roles such as security analysts, ethical hackers, or security consultants.

4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning: Graduates can explore opportunities in AI and machine learning, contributing to the development of intelligent systems, chatbots, recommendation engines, and more.

5. Database Administration: Database administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining databases. This role is crucial in organizations that rely heavily on data storage and retrieval.

6. Web Development: Web developers create and maintain websites and web applications. Their skills in programming and web technologies are highly valuable in the digital age.

7. IT Management: Some graduates choose to move into IT management roles, where they oversee technology resources, lead teams, and make strategic decisions about technology implementation.

8. Academia and Research: For those interested in academia, the M.A. can serve as a stepping stone to pursue a Ph.D. and enter the world of computer science research and higher education.

9. Consulting: Graduates can work as IT consultants, offering their expertise to organizations seeking guidance on technology adoption, optimization, and problem-solving.

10. Startups and Entrepreneurship: The knowledge and skills gained in the program can empower graduates to start their tech companies or join startups in various roles, from software development to business analysis.

11. Government and Public Sector: Opportunities exist in government agencies and the public sector, where computer scientists can work on projects related to data analysis, cybersecurity, and technology modernization.

12. Healthcare IT: With the increasing use of technology in healthcare, graduates can explore roles in healthcare IT, ensuring the secure and efficient management of patient data and healthcare systems.