Do I have the option to complete my Master of Computer Science online?
Rice University’s 100% online, top-quality master’s degree in computer science program is a great option for working professionals who want to progress their careers.
Rice’s online MCS can be completed in 2-3 years, part-time. Full-time students who have intermediate to advanced programming skills will finish the program sooner. Rice’s online MCS isn’t hosted on an “open online massive” platform such as Coursera and EdX. Instead, it feels more personalized and interactive for both students and professors.
Does the Master of Computer Science degree offered at Rice University count?
Rice University offers the same program on campus. The program was built to use the best online teaching methods.
On student transcripts, the mode of delivery is not indicated. It is the same with the degree earned. The diploma does not mention that this was an online program.
Does the Online CS Master’s Program allow students to set their own pace of study?
The answer is yes, with some structure. Students can access course content and lectures, as well as assignments and other forms of assessment, at their convenience. All graded assignments have due dates. Each course has a schedule of content releases so all students can progress through the experience.
Interactions between students and faculty are crucial to the learning process and student success. Students will have many chances to interact with the faculty members and each other during this course.
Does Rice University offer an online Master of Computer Science program that is accredited?
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has accredited Rice University’s Online Master of Computer Science program.
How do I start my online Master of Computer Science program at Rice University?
Ideal candidates will possess a bachelor’s degree (not necessarily in computer science), and have programming experience. All candidates are required to have a bachelor’s degree. However, this does not necessarily mean that the field of study must be science or engineering. Admissions Committee reviews all applications holistically and individually, considering every aspect of an application including the applicant’s educational and professional background as well as letters of recommendation, GRE (if provided) and statement of intent.
GRE is not mandatory, but it’s recommended. The Admissions Committee may consider work experience or a recommendation from your supervisor instead of GRE scores if you have relevant experience in the industry. Candidates who don’t have GREs are required to have at least 3 years of work experience, full time in a technical or scientific field. At least one recommendation letter must come from your supervisor. It should highlight your communication and technical abilities. Your resume should also include any relevant work experience. Send your GRE scores directly to Rice University by using the code 6609.
Learn more about the prerequisites for MCS@Rice Online and other admissions requirements.
What is the length of time it takes to finish Rice’s online Master of Computer Science program?
Rice University offers an OMCS program that can be completed within 12-18 months, depending on the level of experience you have in programming and your other requirements upon acceptance. It could also take up to 3.5 years (ten semesters).
How much background is required to succeed in Rice Online MCS?
A Bachelor of Science or Engineering degree is required. Computer science may not be the best choice. Computer Science is a subject that requires abstract reasoning skills. These are derived from a mathematically sophisticated background and the ability of writing programs using standardized programming languages. To be successful in any program of computer science, you must have both concepts.
How can I obtain a Master’s in Computer Science if I have no experience?
Rice Admissions looks for candidates with CS and STEM backgrounds, who possess at least basic programming abilities, a GPA of 3.0+, and a couple of years of experience working in STEM fields like software development, engineering, statistics and data analytics, etc.
Students who are looking to switch careers or build their foundational skills in computer science, programming, and mathematics should consider Rice’s Free Computer Science Courses available on Coursera, as well as the 6-week Bridge Course. This course could be a pathway for those students who have the grades necessary.
How much does the MCS@Rice Program cost?
The tuition for MCS@Rice is $1666.67/credit in the academic year 2023-24. The tuition is per credit. MCS@Rice has 30 credits. Note that the fees may change each year.
Early applicants who submit their applications by the 1st of May will be eligible for a merit-based $10K scholarship.
Apply now to our fall 2023 intake!
Scholarships and financial aid are available.
Yes. Applicants who complete their applications before the early May deadline will be eligible for a merit-based $10K scholarship. Start your application today.
Rice University currently does not offer any tuition assistance, assistantships, fellowships or stipends to students pursuing the Master of Computer Science. For more information on loans and other sources of financial aid, students are encouraged to contact the Rice Office of Student Financial Services.
Rice Engineering also provides financial assistance and support for veterans and active members of the military. Find out more by clicking below.
What is the support that Rice MCS provides to veterans and military personnel?
Rice Engineering participates in Yellow Ribbon at its highest level. Once your Chapter 33 cap is exhausted, Rice Engineering covers half the cost remaining with a Yellow Ribbon Scholarship. The VA will match the scholarship dollar for dollar.