Our program offers a master of science in the field of computer science. This program is oriented toward software and is most appropriate for candidates interested in the design, analysis and implementation of software programs.

Learning Outcomes

  • Given a specific, solvable symbol manipulation task, develop a specification, a design and tests for an automated solution for that task.
  • Demonstrate programming efficiency in more than one programming language.
  • Analyze the efficiency of algorithms.
  • Devise new algorithms that incorporate efficiency and transparency.
  • Master communication skills, including technical writing, public speaking and electronic presentation.
  • Read, understand and critically report on current research literature in computer science.
  • Proficiency in programming languages and software development.
  • Mastery of algorithm design and systems analysis.
  • Understanding of cybersecurity principles and data management.

Quick Facts

Tuition
On-campus: $12,048*
Online: $12,352*
Duration
2 years
Credit Hours
32
STEM Designated
Yes

Calendar

Don't miss an important date or deadline

Designed for working professionals, UIS programs feature multiple start dates per year, so you can begin at the time that best fits your schedule and complete your degree quickly. View the Academic Calendar

Now Enrolling

Apply by Date:
August 10, 2026

Start Date:
August 24, 2026

Apply Today!

Tuition & Aid

UIS is the most affordable option to earning your University of Illinois degree. Earn a world-class education for less than you’d expect.

Tuition Estimates

On-campus $12,736*
Online $12,296*

*These numbers represent an estimate of the in-state tuition cost for this program and do not include fees. To get an estimate of the full cost of attendance check out the cost of attendance page and/or use the tuition calculator.

Admissions

Applying to UIS is simple

We've streamlined our admission process to save you time and effort. Just follow the steps below.

 

Review admission requirements

No specific admission requirements are listed at this time. Please contact the Office of Admission for more information.

International students, will you need an F-1 student visa to study on campus at UIS? Please review the International Applicants site for additional information.

Complete your application

An email address is required to create an account. To submit a paper application, visit the Resources & Forms page. Find more information about what type of student you are on the Student Types page. Applying for an online program is the same procedure as applying for an on-campus program.

Send your official transcripts

Email your official or certified academic records/transcripts to incomingtranscripts@uis.edu or through any of the major transcript platforms. Photocopies will not be accepted.

Submit required statements/writing sample

If you are a first-year student, a statement of 250-650 words is required for admission. We want to hear about your professional aspirations, intellectual interests, and personal experiences relevant to your choice of a specific academic program. You can upload the required documents on your application status page.

Pay your application fee

You can submit your non-refundable application fee online, after completing the online application. Alternately, it can also be mailed to the university, payable to University of Illinois Springfield.

Domestic students: Undergraduate - $50, Graduate - $60;

International students: Undergraduate - $60, Graduate - $75.

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Voted No. 1 public regional university in Illinois
2020 - 2024

Courses & Catalog Information

Career Outlook & Potential Earnings

Graduates of this program may find opportunities in the following careers. Data sourced from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Special Education Teachers, Middle School

Teach academic, social, and life skills to middle school students with learning, emotional, or physical disabilities. Includes teachers who specialize and work with students who are blind or have visu

Median Annual Wage $66,810
Wage Range $49,420 – $102,510
Projected Growth Below Average
Top Skills:
  • Active Learning
  • Active Listening
  • Instructing
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree

Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary

Plan, direct, or coordinate the academic, administrative, or auxiliary activities of kindergarten, elementary, or secondary schools.

Median Annual Wage $105,870
Wage Range $76,280 – $167,770
Projected Growth Below Average
Top Skills:
  • Speaking
  • Active Listening
  • Judgment and Decision Making
Typical Education: Master’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, Post-master’s certificate

Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary

Bright Outlook

Teach courses in computer science. May specialize in a field of computer science, such as the design and function of computers or operations and research analysis. Includes both teachers primarily eng

Median Annual Wage $96,980
Wage Range $49,460 – $170,200
Projected Growth Bright
Top Skills:
  • Instructing
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Speaking
Typical Education: Master’s degree, Doctoral degree, Bachelor’s degree

Computer and Information Research Scientists

Bright Outlook

Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.

Median Annual Wage $140,300
Wage Range $82,200 – $230,630
Projected Growth Bright
Top Skills:
  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
  • Judgment and Decision Making
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Doctoral degree, Master’s degree

Computer Systems Analysts

Bright Outlook

Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perfo

Median Annual Wage $105,850
Wage Range $67,340 – $167,710
Projected Growth Bright
Top Skills:
  • Speaking
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
Typical Education: Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, Some college, no degree

Computer Programmers

Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write comp

Median Annual Wage $100,390
Wage Range $57,710 – $160,460
Projected Growth Below Average
Top Skills:
  • Programming
  • Active Listening
  • Complex Problem Solving
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Associate’s degree, Some college, no degree
Tassel worth the hassle grad cap

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2026-08-24