2024 Application Updates for the University of Chicago Master's Program in Computer Science (MPCS)

发布时间：Date: 2023-08-16 返回新鲜资讯Back to News

The University of Chicago's Master's Program in Computer Science (MPCS) balances theory and practice, covering foundational areas like algorithms, programming, and systems architecture, as well as applied fields such as machine learning and data analytics. It aims to cultivate versatile professionals who can rapidly adapt to technological changes. The program offers both full-time and part-time tracks: full-time students can complete the degree in 12–15 months with daytime courses, while part-time students can finish in 18 months to 2 years through evening classes, accommodating diverse backgrounds. In terms of degree options, students can choose the 9-course general master's or the 12-course specialization track. The former includes five core courses and four electives for broad exposure, while the latter offers four specializations—Application Development, Data Analytics, High Performance Computing, and Software Engineering—to deepen skills in specific areas. Note that the program does not require an internship and does not support CPT, but graduates are highly sought after by top tech companies for their solid technical foundation and adaptability.

CheersYou（清柚教育） presents a detailed introduction to the University of Chicago's Master of Science in Computer Science program:

Program Overview

This program provides students with a deep foundation in computer science and the essential skills needed to succeed in the technology field. The curriculum covers theory, programming, and applications.

It represents a practical balance between foundational courses (such as programming languages, algorithms, databases, and computer systems) and applied courses (such as application development, machine learning, and data analytics).

MPCS graduates are sought after by many top companies because they can contribute technically and adapt quickly to rapidly evolving technologies.

Program Options

Except for the Pre-doctoral MSCS, all tracks can be completed full-time or part-time.

Full-time: Full-time students at the University of Chicago take 3 courses per quarter. They can choose to complete the 9-course program in one academic year or the 12-course specialization program in 15 months. Full-time students may take daytime courses.

Part-time: Part-time students at the University of Chicago may take 1 or 2 courses per quarter. Most students complete the 9-course program in 18 months to 2 years. Part-time students can attend evening courses.

9-Course MS in Computer Science Program

Includes five core courses and four electives.

Core courses:

1 Algorithms course
1 Programming course
3 Computer Systems, Networks and Architectures courses

*This program does not include an internship requirement; CPT is not available.

12-Course MS in Computer Science Specialization Program is designed for students who wish to further their studies and gain experience in the following areas:

Specialization in Application Development
Specialization in Data Analytics
Specialization in High Performance Computing
Specialization in Software Engineering

Students are required to complete: 6 core courses (or 5 core courses plus 4 specialization courses in one concentration)

(1) Algorithms course

(1) Programming course (Please note, students cannot take more than one (1) Core Programming class)

(3) Computer Systems, Networks and Architectures courses

(1) Additional Algorithms or Computer Systems, Networks and Architectures core course, or a practicum course.

Also, three specialization courses (or 5 core plus 4 specialization courses in one concentration)

And three elective courses

An internship is required for degree completion

Joint MBA / MPCS Program in collaboration with the Booth School of Business

The MBA/MPCS joint program meets the cross-functional demands of today's leading tech companies for new hires. Technology is pervasive, and true innovation requires the ability to understand and navigate both business and technology.

This joint program with the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business allows students to earn both an MBA and a master's degree in computer science.

Admission to the MBA/MPCS joint program is only available for the fall quarter.

Pre-Doctoral MS in Computer Science: This is a 12-course research-oriented master's program for full-time students with a background in computer science, beginning in the fall quarter. It is expected to be completed in 15 months.

Four core courses:

1 Theory course (MPCS or PhD level)
2 Systems core classes (MPCS or approved 300-level PhD level)
1 Machine Learning (MPCS 53111 or approved 300-level PhD course)

Four research courses:

2 Practicum courses with MS research advisor
2 Reading & Research courses to work on research

Four elective courses

CMSC 300-level PhD courses providing depth in a specific area.

An internship is required; pre-doctoral students should plan to work with their MS research advisor during the summer after the first academic year.

Intro to Programming and Math for CS: Any student admitted to MPCS may take introductory programming and math courses. Students can complete one or both of these courses before starting their master's program in computer science.

Concepts of Programming
Math for Computer Science: Discrete Math

*Placement exams: Placement exams primarily cover the content of the above courses. Based on exam results, each student will be placed in the courses best suited to their background and skills. Students may choose to take the placement exam or enroll in the courses mentioned. The exam is held before the start of the term and can be taken only once.

Application Requirements

Deadlines: For the 2024 academic year, they will be announced at the end of August. Below are the reference application deadlines for the 2023 intake:

Application Materials

Completed online application form
Candidate statement (required)
Short answer questions (optional)
Resume/CV
Three letters of recommendation (academic or professional; applications will not be reviewed until received; it is recommended that they speak to technical/quantitative experience)
Official GRE/GMAT scores (required except for part-time applicants; candidates with qualifying professional or academic experience may be eligible for a waiver. GRE Quantitative: ≥ 80th percentile; GMAT Quantitative: ≥ 70th percentile; if multiple tests are taken, the highest section scores will be considered)
Official TOEFL or IELTS scores (if applicable; minimum TOEFL 100, IELTS 7.0)
Transcripts
$90 application fee

Official Q&A

Q: Can I apply without a computer science background?

A: Yes, except for the pre-doctoral track. The school offers two immersion courses as prerequisites to help admitted students supplement their background.

Q: What is the international outlook for this program? Is competition intense? What is the ratio of international applicants to admitted students?

A: The school does not provide such specific data. However, according to employment outcomes for the 2021–2022 academic year, 48% of students were international.

Q: Is it preferable for applicants to have prior industry experience, or can they join straight from undergraduate studies?

A: Anyone holding a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is welcome to apply. Please refer to the degree requirements for details.

Q: Is it preferable for applicants to have prior industry experience, or can they join straight from undergraduate studies?

A: Anyone holding a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is welcome to apply. Please refer to the degree requirements for details.

Q: Although prerequisite courses are provided, does the department recommend having some programming experience before applying?

A: MPCS offers placement exams before the start of studies, so more experienced students can be placed into more advanced courses. No prerequisite courses are required at the undergraduate level before applying for the MS in Computer Science.

Q: What is the tuition for this program? Are scholarships available for international students?

A: For the 2023–2024 academic year, tuition is $6,593 per course. MPCS offers only a small number of partial scholarships; no full scholarships are provided.

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