Program Description
The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program at Dakota State University builds on a strong foundation in core computer science while offering the flexibility to apply that expertise to emerging and specialized fields, such as Cybersecurity or Artificial Intelligence. Students entering the program are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a closely related discipline.
The program’s 15-credit core deepens and advances your knowledge of essential computer science principles, preparing you to tackle complex technical challenges. Beyond the core, the program offers 15 elective credits, giving you the freedom to tailor your degree to your professional goals and interests.
You may choose a predefined specialization or work with faculty to design a customized path that aligns with your career trajectory. Options include areas where Dakota State is nationally recognized as a leader, such as Cyber Operations, or interdisciplinary applications like Artificial Intelligence or Information Systems. Whether you want to specialize deeply in one domain or create a cross-disciplinary plan of study, the MSCS offers the flexibility to do so.
The Cyber Operations specialization, in particular, prepares students for advanced technical work in one of the most in-demand areas of computing today. DSU is nationally recognized by federal agencies and industry partners for its strength in this area, and the specialization can also serve as preparation for advanced doctoral study in cyber security.
The Artificial Intelligence specialization prepares students to apply modern AI and machine learning techniques to solve real-world problems across a variety of industries. The program emphasizes both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of AI, including data analytics, natural language processing, computer vision, and intelligent systems design. Through coursework and hands-on projects, students develop the technical and problem-solving skills sought by employers in technology, finance, healthcare, government, and beyond. Graduates are equipped for immediate placement in AI-focused roles such as machine learning engineer, data scientist, or AI software developer, as well as for continued advancement in research or doctoral study.
Whether your goal is to pursue cutting-edge research, take on advanced technical leadership roles, or prepare for further graduate study, the MSCS provides both the rigorous foundation and the adaptability you need to succeed in a rapidly evolving field.
Location: Madison Campus and Online
Goals and Objectives
The MSCS student learning outcomes were developed to ensure that all graduates are prepared to enter employment in industry or to continue on in a doctoral degree program. Those goals include the ability to:
- articulate a solid understanding of the fundamental principles in computer science, in the area of specialization and in supporting areas;
- apply computer science principles to problems from other domains;
- conduct research and/or design projects that demonstrate an ability to model, analyze and design computer science processes and systems;
- communicate technical information, both orally and in writing, in an effective manner.
Program Completion
The program can be completed on a full or part-time basis, with classes offered in three academic terms, fall, spring, and summer. Time to complete really depends upon the number of credit hours taken per semester and the number of knowledge support courses needed. Full-time students (6 credit hours per semester) can complete the program in four semesters (assuming two knowledge support courses are required). Students must complete the program within 5 years of the semester of their admission.
Admission Requirements Specific to the MSCS
The Dakota State University Masters of Science in Computer Science program seeks highly motivated individuals with education and professional credentials that will enable them to be successful graduate students. Admission to the program is based upon a combination of the following requirements:
- A baccalaureate degree in computer science (or closely related field) from an institution of higher education with full regional accreditation for that degree. International students must have an undergraduate (bachelor’s) degree that is the equivalent to a four-year undergraduate degree in the U.S.
- Minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent on an alternative grading system).
- Students who are accepted into the program but do not hold a B.S. in Computer Science may be required to show competency areas such as Data Structures, Assembly Language, Operating Systems, Language Processing, Programming Languages, Discrete Mathematics. These competencies may be met with transcripted coursework or less-formal means such as experiences which demonstrate to the Admissions Committee gained competence in a knowledge area. Any remaining knowledge deficiency requirements will be included as part of the student’s formal Plan of Study (POS) as additional required credits.
Program Faculty
Austin O’Brien (Department Chair), Zainab Albjasim, Samuel Flint, Jason Jenkins, Abid Mehmood, Jason Mixon, Jihene Kaabi, Tom Halverson, Mike Ham, Youssef Harrath, John Hastings, Stephen Krebsbach, Jared Soundy
Program Requirements
Coursework
The program requires 30 hours beyond the baccalaureate. All students must take the following:
- Three core courses (9 credits).
- Choose: Artificial Intelligence Specialization, Cyber Operations Specialization or Computer Science elective courses (21 credits).
Students who do not meet specific admission requirements may have to take foundational classes as part of their coursework that gets added to their program of study.
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