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: $6,368/yr*
Online: $6,148/yr*
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:
December 28, 2026

Start Date:
January 11, 2027

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 $6,368/yr*
Online $6,148/yr*

Based on 32 credit hours over 2 years.

*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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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.

Computer Systems Engineers/Architects

Bright Outlook

Design and develop solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions.

Median Annual Wage $116,580
Wage Range $55,940 – $188,470
Projected Growth Bright
Top Skills:
  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking
  • Reading Comprehension
Typical Education: Post-secondary certificate, Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree, Bachelor’s degree

Computer Hardware Engineers

Bright Outlook

Research, design, develop, or test computer or computer-related equipment for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use. May supervise the manufacturing and installation of computer or compu

Median Annual Wage $161,740
Wage Range $92,940 – $225,330
Projected Growth Bright
Top Skills:
  • Critical Thinking
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Master’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 or other 2-year degree, Some college, no degree

Database Administrators

Administer, test, and implement computer databases, applying knowledge of database management systems. Coordinate changes to computer databases. Identify, investigate, and resolve database performance

Median Annual Wage $104,620
Wage Range $60,230 – $163,320
Projected Growth Below Average
Top Skills:
  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
  • Active Listening
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Post-baccalaureate certificate, Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree

Database Architects

Bright Outlook

Design strategies for enterprise databases, data warehouse systems, and multidimensional networks. Set standards for database operations, programming, query processes, and security. Model, design, and

Median Annual Wage $139,500
Wage Range $86,240 – $204,000
Projected Growth Bright
Top Skills:
  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
  • Judgment and Decision Making
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, Post-secondary certificate

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 or other 2-year degree, Bachelor’s degree, Some college, no degree
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2026-08-24