COMPUTER SCIENCE

General Description:
Computer Science is the systematic study of computing systems and computation. This field of study includes
design methodology, algorithms, and tools; methods for the testing of concepts, analysis and verification; and
representation and implementation.

Listed below are the most common specializations and degrees within this area of study. Please note that the
manner in which US institutions classify or name an area of study might differ from your home country.

Common
Specializations
AI is a complex, highly interdisciplinary branch of computer science that attempts
Artificial
to incorporate the principles of human intelligence and reasoning into computing
Intelligence systems.
This specialization concerns the application of computer science to the field of
biology. It often focuses on genomics and genetics, but also involves the
Bioinformatics application of algorithms and computational techniques to solve practical problems
in biology.
Computer Computer graphics is the field of visual computing, where one utilizes computers
Graphics/ both to generate visual images synthetically, and to integrate or alter visual and
spatial information sampled from the real world.
Design
Computer A computer network is a system for communication among two or more
Networks computers.
A database system is a computer program (or more typically, a suite of them)
Database designed to manage a database; a large set of structured data, and run operations
Systems on the data requested by numerous users.
Human This is an interdisciplinary specialization that studies the interaction between
Computer people and computers. It includes computer science, behavioral studies, cognitive
science, and design.
Interaction
Programming This is an artificial language that articulates computations and expresses
Languages algorithms that can be performed by a computer.
A branch of computer science that applies artificial intelligence and engineering
concepts to create and program mechanical devices (robots) that are able to
Robotics perform a variety of tasks including some previously performed by humans.
Sometimes offered as a specialization in Electrical Engineering
The application of engineering principles and methods of design to the production
Software of software. Software engineering covers not only the technical aspects of building
Engineering software systems, but also management issues, such as directing programming
teams, scheduling, and budgeting.

Common Degrees
There are usually 2 options for the Masters degree: thesis and non thesis. The
MS non thesis option can require more credits to complete the degree and often
involves a project. Most MS programs are two years.
This is a less commonly offered Master’s degree that is more professional than
academic. There is more emphasis on coursework and a professional project
M. Eng rather than a traditional research-based M.S program which requires a thesis. It
ranges from a one to two year program.
The PhD is the highest degree. It is typically a 5-6 year program beginning with
PhD coursework followed by a dissertation composed of original research.
Prepared by the IIE’s Academic and Experiential Learning Division
Special Notes on Applying:
Detailed letters of recommendation from faculty/employer who can attest to the student’s qualifications are
important.
A well written study objective focused on the candidate’s specialization is essential.

Special tips for visiting student researchers:

It is important for the candidate to identify the faculty person(s) in the US with whom she/he would like to work.

Admission
Requirements

Admission and Deadlines are early for Computer Science. Applications should arrive at
universities by December 15 with a few exceptions. Some schools have earlier
financial aid deadlines in November.
deadlines

Academic Most applicants to the MS and PhD program hold a bachelor or masters degree in
computer science, computer engineering, or a related area with a sufficient
background computer science component. Experience in programming is advised (particularly
in an object-oriented language such as C++ or Python. Strong applicants from
other areas may be considered; however, they must demonstrate outstanding
ability to complete the required background on their own accord.

Tests A TOEFL score of 80 internet-based or 550 paper-based is the minimum.

GRE scores in the 90% in the quantitative section are recommended, especially
for competitive schools and programs.
The GRE Subject exam in Computer Science is no longer offered.

Prepared by the IIE’s Academic and Experiential Learning Division