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One of the key questions that audiences were encouraged to ask is how their food was grown.
Computer Science, M.S.
Equipping students with advanced computing skills to innovate, solve complex problems and lead in a rapidly evolving technological world.
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Build Advanced Skills for a Career in Tech
The Master of Science in Computer Science at Cal State Monterey Bay prepares you to deepen your expertise and take the next step in your tech career. Through rigorous coursework and hands-on learning, you’ll strengthen your foundation in core computer science while exploring emerging technologies that shape today’s digital world.
You’ll gain practical experience through real-world projects, building the skills to solve complex problems, think critically and contribute to innovation across industries. Flexible options allow you to tailor your experience to your goals, whether you plan to advance in industry, contribute to research or pursue doctoral study.
With strong demand for advanced computing skills across California and beyond, this degree positions you for career growth in a fast-moving field, helping you turn knowledge into impact.
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We're going to be change makers in our field and they teach us how to do that.
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Public University Price, Private University Experience
A Lifetime of Value
Computer Science, M.S.
Where Advanced Computing Meets Real-World Impact
The Master of Science in Computer Science at Cal State Monterey Bay prepares graduates for careers in industry and advanced study in academia. Through flexible thesis and project options, students apply advanced computing knowledge to real-world challenges and build the skills needed for independent research and doctoral study.
The curriculum integrates core computer science principles with emerging technologies, equipping graduates to adapt and lead in a rapidly evolving field. Students gain practical experience through internships and industry engagement, leveraging the university’s proximity to Silicon Valley to apply their skills in professional settings.
Students in the thesis track collaborate with faculty, develop research questions and contribute to ongoing work in computer science, preparing them for research-focused roles and Ph.D. programs.
Through paid instructional student assistant opportunities, students also strengthen their communication, leadership and teaching skills, preparing them to support learning environments and take on leadership roles in both industry and academia.
For more information, please visit the Program Catalog.
Complete all of the following courses:
CST 500 - Graduate Proseminar Units: 2
CST 515 - Computer Security Units: 4
CST 521 - Principles of Programming Languages Units: 2
CST 534 - Distributed Systems and Cloud Computing Units: 4
CST 570 - Design and Analysis of Algorithms Units: 4
CST 575 - Theory of Computation Units: 2
CST 583 - Advanced Data Science Units: 4
Complete one of the following options:
Thesis Option:
CST 697 - Thesis Planning Units: 2
CST 698 - Graduate Thesis Units: 4
Project Option:
CST 699 - Graduate Capstone Units: 4
Electives:
Thesis option: 8 units of electives required
Project option: 10 units of electives required
Elective courses may include:
CST 511 - Computer Networks Units: 2
CST 523 - Compiler Construction Units: 2
CST 538 - Advanced Software Engineering Units: 4
CST 539 - Software Testing Units: 2
CST 545 - Embedded Development Units: 2
CST 546 - Very Large-Scale Integration Design Units: 2
CST 557 - Quantum Computing Units: 2
CST 563 - Advanced Machine Learning Units: 4
CST 695 - Graduate Special Topics in Computer Science Units: 1-4
CST 696 - Graduate Directed Study Units: 1-4
Connected to Opportunity
At Cal State Monterey Bay, you’ll learn in a setting that connects academic study with real-world opportunity. Located within reach of Silicon Valley, the Master of Science in Computer Science program offers proximity to one of the world’s leading technology hubs. Students benefit from access to internships, industry partnerships and professional networks that support career growth and innovation.
At the same time, the campus’s coastal location provides a focused, supportive environment for learning. This balance allows you to build advanced technical skills, engage with industry leaders and apply your knowledge in meaningful ways — all while being part of a close-knit academic community.
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As an undergrad, Mahlon Rosenberg was able to purchase more testing materials with the grant.
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The environmental science major has enjoyed an ocean-centered career, including being recognized as Miss Best Diver and Miss Marine Conservation.
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Questions? We’re Here to Help!
Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions you have about the M.S. in Computer Science program.
Our team is here to guide you through admission requirements, the application process and program details.