M.S. in Computer Science

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 75

1. Academic Qualifications: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The degree should be relevant to the chosen field of study for the postgraduate program.

2. Grade Point Average (GPA): The minimum GPA requirement for admission to most postgraduate programs at George Mason University is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.  

3. English Language Proficiency:  

• IELTS: Overall score of 6.5, with no individual band score below 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 80.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 120.

George Mason University recognizes the importance of making higher education accessible to a diverse range of students, including international students. As such, the university offers a variety of scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition and support the academic pursuits of international students.

1. Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is a merit-based award available to incoming international undergraduate students. It recognizes academic achievement, leadership skills, and contributions to the community. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable for up to four years.

2. INTO Mason Scholarships: INTO Mason, a partnership program that helps international students transition to university life in the United States, offers scholarships to students who enroll in Pathway programs. These scholarships can help cover tuition costs and are awarded based on academic merit.

3. College and Departmental Scholarships: Many of George Mason University's colleges and academic departments offer scholarships to international students who excel in specific fields of study. These scholarships may require students to meet certain academic criteria and demonstrate a strong commitment to their chosen area of study.

4. Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students at George Mason University have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships, which provide funding for tuition and stipends for work as research or teaching assistants. These assistantships offer valuable hands-on experience while helping to offset educational costs.

5. International Baccalaureate Scholarships: International students who have completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) program may be eligible for scholarships based on their IB scores and academic achievements. These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate students.

6. Private Scholarships: George Mason University encourages international students to explore private scholarship opportunities from external organizations, foundations, and government agencies. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students find and apply for these scholarships.

7. Fullbright Scholarships: International students seeking advanced degrees may be eligible to apply for the prestigious Fullbright scholarship program, which provides funding for graduate study, research, and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.

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

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Computer Science program at George Mason University is designed to empower students with advanced knowledge and skills in computer science, preparing them for a wide range of lucrative and impactful career opportunities in the rapidly evolving tech industry.  

1. Software Developer: One of the most common career paths for M.S. in Computer Science graduates is becoming a software developer. These professionals design, develop, and test software applications and systems. They work across industries to create cutting-edge solutions that address user needs and business requirements.

2. Data Scientist: With the explosion of data in various fields, data scientists are in high demand. They analyze and interpret complex data sets to uncover insights and trends that can inform business decisions and strategies. Graduates with expertise in machine learning, data mining, and statistical analysis can excel in this role.

3. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer: As AI technologies continue to advance, AI engineers play a crucial role in developing intelligent systems and algorithms. They work on projects such as natural language processing, computer vision, and machine learning models to create AI-driven solutions that automate processes and enhance user experiences.

4. Cybersecurity Analyst: In an increasingly digitized world, cybersecurity is paramount. Cybersecurity analysts are responsible for protecting digital assets and sensitive information from cyber threats. Graduates with a focus on security and cryptography can find rewarding careers in this field.

5. Software Architect: Software architects design the high-level structure of software systems and applications. They make critical decisions about the system's design, components, and interactions to ensure scalability, performance, and maintainability. Their expertise is essential for creating robust and efficient software solutions.

6. Systems Analyst: Systems analysts bridge the gap between IT and business by assessing an organization's technology needs and recommending solutions. They analyze existing systems, identify opportunities for improvement, and design new systems that align with business goals.

7. Database Administrator: Database administrators manage and organize an organization's data. They design, implement, and maintain databases to ensure data integrity, security, and efficient retrieval. Graduates with a specialization in databases and data management can excel in this role.

8. Cloud Solutions Architect: As cloud computing becomes integral to modern businesses, cloud solutions architects design and implement cloud-based infrastructure and services. They optimize cloud solutions for scalability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

9. Research Scientist: For those interested in advancing the frontiers of computer science, research scientist positions offer opportunities to contribute to groundbreaking research in areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, and more. These roles are often found in academia, research institutions, and cutting-edge tech companies.

10. Entrepreneur and Innovator: With a solid foundation in computer science, graduates have the knowledge and skills to create their startups or innovative tech solutions. Many successful entrepreneurs have emerged from computer science backgrounds, leveraging their expertise to develop new products and services.

11. Academia and Education: Graduates who are passionate about teaching and research can pursue careers in academia. They can become professors, researchers, or instructors, contributing to the education and advancement of the next generation of computer scientists.