The demand for software engineers and computer scientists is skyrocketing. Whether you’re a professional looking to upskill or a career changer aiming to break into tech, pursuing an online MS degree in computer science can open the door to endless opportunities. But which program is right for you?
Why Consider an Online MS Degree in Computer Science?
An online MS degree offers flexibility and accessibility, especially for individuals juggling work, family, or other commitments. With options ranging from traditional universities to innovative programs like Qwasar’s MSCS program, you can find a curriculum tailored to your needs.
- Learn advanced topics like AI, machine learning, and software engineering.
- Gain skills in modern programming languages like Rust, Go, and React.
- Enjoy lower costs compared to on-campus degrees.
How to Choose the Best Online MS Degree in Computer Science
Not all programs are created equal. To choose the right one, consider the following:
1. Curriculum Model
Look for a program emphasizing practical skills and real-world applications. At Qwasar, for example, students spend 90% of their time coding and just 10% in lectures, a stark contrast to traditional academic models.
2. Admission Requirements
Traditional programs often require a GRE, a bachelor’s degree in computer science, and letters of recommendation. However, Qwasar eliminates these barriers, allowing anyone with the passion and drive to apply.
3. Cost
The cost of education can be prohibitive, but innovative programs like Qwasar’s offer tuition at just $5,000 for 2025—5 to 200 times less than most traditional degrees.
4. Duration
Online MS degrees in computer science vary in duration - some at two years full-time, others are one-year, while some are 3-4 years part-time.
5. Curriculum Options & Electives
Degree programs are structured in different ways - some have core requirements followed by a lot of electives, while others have less choice and are more restricted. How degrees are structured affect the learning experience and influence what you can or cannot study in what order.
Take time to understand what universities offer, and how the curriculum is structured.
A large part of some programs is the thesis, while others may focus on the capstone. If you would rather write a paper than write an entire software program or ML model, then the first option is for you. If you'd rather code, then find a program that allows you to do so.
6. Full-time or Part-time Program
Most online MS degrees in computer science are full-time. Only some are part-time, and even fewer are "on your own time" where the duration is a function of your speed through the content.
There's a big difference financially between full-time and part-time learning: in one, you forego a full-time job, and in the other, you can work full-time and study part-time.
6. Which Online MS Degree in Computer Science Will Best Help Your Career?
This is a key question - some programs are designed to put graduates into academia and prepare them to do a PhD, while others are 100% focused on helping you get a job and really preparing you for industry. These are two different ends of a spectrum, because the skills needed for on the job are VERY different than those needed for a PhD program or professorship.
Whatever you want to pursue, you should pick an online MS degree program that matches with the outcomes and goals you have. Don't chose a program that's focused on pushing graduates to a PhD if you want to get a job as a Software Engineer or are a career switcher.
This is a super important piece because many students don't evaluate this part when they choose their degree program, and at the end, they can't get a job easily even though they have a Master's degree!
Is an Online MS Degree in Computer Science Right for You?
An online MS degree can suit a wide range of learners, including:
- Career changers eager to enter the tech industry
- Professionals without a bachelor’s degree in computer science
- Early-career developers looking to specialize in areas like backend engineering or AI
- Advanced developers who need a degree to go into engineering management
- Advanced developers who want to start a company one day and know that investors look for Master's degrees
What Sets Qwasar Apart?
Qwasar’s innovative MSCS program stands out for several reasons:
1. Cutting-Edge Curriculum
The program features project-based learning, daily standups, peer reviews, and tools like TensorFlow, MongoDB, and AWS Amplify. These align with real-world job practices.
2. Focus on Employment
EVERYTHING about our programs are designed to prepare you for employment - that is our metric of success. Everything from how the learning system is designed to the projects you complete to extensive interview preparation and resume review - all is designed to prepare you for the workplace.
This is different than those who want to go into academia. For example, Qwasar requires a small thesis and a large capstone project, rather than a large thesis. Why write an extensive academic paper over an extensive amount of code for a project that will go on your technical portfolio?!
3. Community and Flexibility
The program combines synchronous and asynchronous learning, fostering collaboration and engagement while offering the flexibility of remote learning.
Conclusion: Take the Leap into Your Future
Whether you’re frustrated with the barriers of traditional education or seeking a cost-effective way to gain advanced skills, an online MS degree in computer science can be the solution. Programs like Qwasar’s redefine learning, making high-quality education accessible to all.
Ready to take the next step? Explore Qwasar’s innovative Master’s in Computer Science program and begin your journey today. Learn more about our admissions process.
