M.A. in Nonprofit Leadership
The M.A. in Nonprofit Leadership at OCU is a 36-credit-hour program that can be complet...
M.S. in Computer Science
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.S. in Computer Science at OCU is typically a 33-credit-hour program (with a 30-credit-hour thesis option available). It offers flexible learning options and can be completed in as little as 18 months. The program allows students to specialize through various tracks, including Cybersecurity, Data Science (Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence), and Web Development. This structured approach enables students to focus on high-demand areas within computer science while building a strong core understanding of the discipline.
STEM-Designated: A significant advantage of OCU's M.S. in Computer Science program is its STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) designation. This is particularly beneficial for international students, as it allows them to qualify for an extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) period in the U.S. by an additional 24 months, totaling up to 36 months of post-graduation work authorization. This extended period provides invaluable opportunities for practical experience and career development in the U.S. technology sector, making the program highly attractive globally.
Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to provide a robust theoretical foundation alongside practical, hands-on experience. Core requirements typically include courses such as "Object-Oriented Programming Design & Patterns," "Software Engineering," "Algorithm Design and Analysis," and "Database Design." Beyond the core, students delve into specialized courses depending on their chosen track. For example, the Data Science track includes "Data Science Fundamentals," "Practical Data Science," "Machine Learning," and "Artificial Intelligence." The Cybersecurity track covers "Cryptography," "Cloud Security," "Offensive Coding," and "Defensive Coding," while the Web Development track includes "HTML/CSS/JavaScript," "Server Web Development," "Frontend Web Development," and "Cloud Development." The program also includes a culminating experience, which can be an internship, an M.S. Degree Project, or M.S. Degree Research, allowing for practical application of learned skills.
Research Focus: Oklahoma City University's Computer Science department maintains an applied research focus within its M.S. program, aiming to equip students with the skills to address real-world computational challenges. Faculty expertise includes areas such as applied algorithms and data structures, artificial intelligence and intelligent systems, architecture, security, software engineering, object-oriented programming, data science, and mobile and web development. Students are encouraged to collaborate with faculty and participate in projects in their specific areas of interest, often culminating in an M.S. Degree Project or Research. This emphasis ensures that students are exposed to current industry trends and research methodologies relevant to their chosen specialization.
Industry Engagement: Oklahoma City University prioritizes strong industry engagement within its M.S. in Computer Science program. The department brings in industry experts as visiting lecturers and for collaborative projects, ensuring that the curriculum remains current and relevant to the demands of the tech sector. The program's design, which includes an optional 16-week internship, provides students with valuable opportunities to gain practical experience and build professional networks within the industry. Graduates are prepared to meet the high demand for skilled computer science professionals, with opportunities in various tech firms, digital agencies, and startups.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Computer Science at Oklahoma City University inherently incorporates a global perspective due to the universal nature of computing and technology. The principles of software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, and web development are applicable worldwide. Furthermore, the program's STEM designation actively attracts a diverse international student body, enriching classroom discussions with varied global viewpoints on technological challenges and solutions. This exposure prepares graduates to work in multicultural teams and contribute to technology solutions that serve a global user base.
Location
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 14190
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 83 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Oklahoma City University (OCU) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to attract and support talented international students. These scholarships help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad and reward academic excellence, leadership, and artistic achievement.
Merit-Based Scholarships: OCU provides merit-based scholarships to international students who demonstrate outstanding academic records, leadership potential, and community involvement. These scholarships are automatically considered during the admission process, and amounts vary based on academic achievement and program of study.
Performance and Talent Scholarships: Students applying to OCU’s renowned performing arts programs, including music, dance, and theater, may be eligible for performance-based scholarships. These awards recognize exceptional artistic ability and provide financial support to help students pursue their creative passions at a professional level.
Transfer Student Scholarships: International students transferring from other accredited institutions may qualify for transfer scholarships. These awards acknowledge previous academic success and help make the transition to OCU more affordable.
Graduate Scholarships and Assistantships: Graduate students, especially those in business, law, and healthcare fields, can access scholarships and assistantships that offer tuition remission and stipends in exchange for teaching or research support. These opportunities provide valuable experience and financial relief.
Oklahoma City University's M.S. in Computer Science provides a robust foundation and specialized expertise across high-demand areas like Cybersecurity, Data Science (Machine Learning & AI), and Web Development. The program's STEM designation is a significant advantage, particularly for international students, offering extended post-graduation work opportunities in the U.S. Graduates are equipped with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to thrive in diverse and rapidly evolving tech roles.
Software Developer/Engineer: Designs, develops, tests, and maintains software applications for various platforms (desktop, web, mobile). Graduates will have strong programming skills, knowledge of software engineering principles, and database design.
Computer Systems Analyst: Researches, designs, and evaluates computer systems to improve organizational efficiency and solve business problems. They act as a bridge between IT and business stakeholders, translating needs into technical requirements.
Database Administrator (DBA): Manages, maintains, and secures an organization's databases, ensuring data integrity, performance, and accessibility. This role utilizes the database design and management skills taught in the program.
Data Scientist: Leverages advanced statistical methods, machine learning algorithms, and programming to extract insights from large, complex datasets. They build predictive models, perform in-depth analysis, and communicate findings to drive data-driven decision-making.
Machine Learning Engineer: Designs, builds, and deploys machine learning models and AI systems. This role focuses on the practical application of AI concepts, often requiring strong programming skills and an understanding of scalable data infrastructure.
Information Security Analyst / Cybersecurity Analyst: Protects an organization's computer systems and networks from cyber threats. This involves identifying vulnerabilities, implementing security measures, responding to incidents, and ensuring compliance with security policies. Graduates from this track are specifically trained in offensive and defensive coding, cryptography, and cloud security.
Network Security Engineer: Designs, implements, and maintains secure network infrastructures. They configure firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and other security tools to protect data and network traffic from unauthorized access and attacks.
Full-Stack Developer: Proficient in both front-end (user interface, client-side scripting) and back-end (server, database, application logic) web development. They can build complete web applications from start to finish, utilizing skills from the web development track.
Frontend Web Developer: Specializes in creating the user-facing part of websites and web applications, focusing on user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design, interactivity, and responsiveness using languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript frameworks.
Backend Web Developer: Focuses on the server-side logic, databases, and APIs that power web applications. They are responsible for data storage, security, and ensuring the seamless flow of information between the front-end and the server.
