What are the top one-year masters programs in computer science in the USA?

Nipun Mahajan

Corporate Finance Analyst at INVESTEC CAPITAL SERVICES (INDIA) PRIVATE LIMITED

Pursuing a one-year master program is quite an excellent choice in most cases. Especially in computer science (C.S.), it will avail more possibilities for you. The best one-year M.S. in C.S. programs currently are:

• M.E. in C.S. - MIT
• MSc. in C.S. - Stanford University
• MSc. in C.S. - Carnegie Mellon University
• MSc. in C.S. - University of California: Berkeley
• MSc. in Computer Engineering - New York University
• MSc. in Computer Science Engineering - University of Washington
• MSc. in Scientific Computing - University of Pennsylvania

While MIT and Berkeley are widely known for their specialized C.S. programs, other major universities are also excellent. They are more student-oriented C.S. programs. In simpler terms, it will allow you to add more qualifications or apply to a broader scope of professions. C.S. masters at MIT, Berkeley or, let's say, ETH Zurich are more keen programs. Select them if you are in for the whole deep academic experience. I.T. and engineering are some of the most interlinked sectors with C.S. Therefore, if you choose to go for a different relevant field, you have tons of options.

Before opting for a one-year program in the USA, consider its limitations. Most of the one-year computer science masters programs are terminal degrees. Terminal degrees are pretty standard. However, they only let you out of a few career choices. Like, after obtaining this degree, you will not be eligible to pursue a PhD.  As the course duration is so low, the programs are not heavily research-focused. Also, there are a few focused career options that you will not be able to pursue. And even if you do somehow manage to get in, it will require extensive deep knowledge on relevant subjects.