Eligibility Requirements for Cornell University MS in CS

To be eligible to apply for the MS in CS program at Cornell University, you must meet the following requirements:

cornell university ms in cs

Undergraduate teaching assistant experience The MS program only admits students who have excelled as undergraduate teaching assistants and have experience as an undergraduate teaching assistant in one or more computer science courses.
LOR Two letters of recommendation (one for current Cornell students)

3/4

Bachelor's GPA Requirement

Test Scores Requirement

ExamRequirementMinimum Section Scores
7-
reading: 24 | writing: 24 | speaking: 28 | listening: 24

Program Eligibility URL:https://gradschool.cornell.edu/academics/fields-of-study/subject/computer-science/computer-science-ms-ithaca/#:~:text=A%20Bachelors%20degree%20in%20CS,undergraduate%20researcher%20is%20highly%20recommended.

Cornell University MS in CS Class Profile

15

Class Size

0

Avg. Student Age

Cornell University MS in CS Rankings

Global Universities- US News & World Report 2021

8th

World University Ranking- QS 2021

14th

Engineering and Technology- QS 2020

8th

About Cornell University

Cornell University offers a highly selective Master of Science (MS) degree in Computer Science (CS). The program aims to establish an elite core of stellar Teaching Assistants (TAs) staffed by students interested in teaching and research. It is designed for students who wish to deepen their knowledge of computer science through advanced coursework.

Cornell University MS in CS Program Description

Students wishing to earn a Ph.D. should apply directly to the Ph.D. program. However, it is possible to apply directly to the M.S. program. This is a very small, highly selective, four-semester program for students who wish to deepen their knowledge of computer science through advanced coursework, research, writing, and teaching.

The program is ideal for self-motivated students who have expository skills, enjoy the research environment, and like working with undergraduates in introductory courses. Students in the program serve as teaching assistants and receive full tuition plus a stipend.

Core Courses

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Computer Science
  • Programming languages and logics
  • Scientific computing and applications
  • Systems
  • Theory of Computation

Program URL:https://gradschool.cornell.edu/academics/fields-of-study/subject/computer-science/computer-science-ms-ithaca/

Program Curriculum at Cornell University MS in CS

Program Curriculum URL:https://gradschool.cornell.edu/academics/fields-of-study/field/computer-science/

Here is a list of electives available in the Cornell University MS in CS program:

  • Advanced-Data Structures and Algorithms
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Computer Networks
  • Database Systems
  • Machine Learning
  • Natural Language Processing
  • Operating Systems
  • Programming Languages
  • Software Engineering
  • Theory of Computation

Electives

Here is a list of electives available in the Cornell University MS in CS program:

  • Advanced-Data Structures and Algorithms
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Computer Networks
  • Database Systems
  • Machine Learning
  • Natural Language Processing
  • Operating Systems
  • Programming Languages
  • Software Engineering
  • Theory of Computation

Cornell University MS in CS program is a highly selective, four-semester program designed for students who wish to deepen their knowledge of computer science through advanced coursework.

Here is a list of core courses in the Cornell University MS in CS program:

  1. Fundamental Programming Concepts (CS 1109)
  2. Introduction to Computing: A Design and Development Perspective (CS 1110)
  3. Introduction to Computing: Using Python (CS 1112)

The program does not offer specific specializations, but students can choose from various electives to tailor their education to their interests and career goals.

After getting admitted to Cornell University's MS in CS program, students can indulge in various clubs and associations to enhance their learning experience and network with like-minded individuals. Here is a list of clubs and associations that students can participate in:

1. Computer Science Clubs: Cornell CS has several undergraduate student groups and teams in which students can participate.
2. Student Organizations: Cornell Graduate School offers various student organizations to join to engage in diverse activities and connect with others.
3. Campus Groups: Cornell Campus Groups provides a list of groups students can join, including clubs, sports teams, and more.

Some of the clubs and associations that students can join include:

  • Cheerleading Club at Cornell University
  • Computer Science Clubs
  • Cornell Graduate School Student Organizations
  • Cornell Campus Groups

After being admitted to Cornell University MS in CS program, students can indulge in various activities to enhance their learning experience and network with like-minded individuals. Here is a list of extra activities that students can participate in:

1. Sports and Fitness Activities: Cornell University MS in CS Program boasts a rich offering of sports and fitness activities, including intramural sports, fitness classes, and more.
2. Arts and Cultural Activities: Students can participate in various arts and cultural activities, including music, theatre, and dance performances.
3. Career Development: The Cornell University MS in CS program also brings several career development opportunities, including workshops, networking events, and more.
4. Research Opportunities: Students can participate in research projects and groups, gaining valuable experience and contributing to the advancement of the field.
5. Teaching Assistantships: One aim of the program is to establish an elite core of stellar Teaching Assistants (TAs) staffed by students who are very interested in both teaching and research.

Cornell University MS in CS Acceptance Rate

Cornell University's MS in CS program is Highly Selective: 

The program is designed for students who wish to deepen their knowledge of computer science through advanced coursework with an acceptance rate of approximately 9%.

Cornell University MS in CS Fee Structure

cornell university ms in cs

Fees components Amount in USD (for 1 year)
Hostel & Meals 133719.79
Insurance 3477.99
Transportation 3043.74
Grad Student Activity Fee 85.05
Total approximate fees 19630.23

Application Documents for Cornell University MS in CS

Mandatory Application Documents

  • Backlog/No Backlog Certificate

  • IELTS/TOEFL/DTE/PTE

    Program Application URL:https://gradschool.cornell.edu/academics/fields-of-study/subject/computer-science/computer-science-ms-ithaca/

    Cornell University MS in CS Deadlines

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    Employment after graduating from Cornell University MS in CS

    Here is a table that lists the sectors, companies within these sectors, and a detailed description of the employment opportunities available after graduating from Cornell University MS in CS program:

    Sector Companies Description
    Technology Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Facebook, Apple Graduates can work in various roles such as software engineer, data analyst, product manager, and more. They can contribute to the development of new technologies and products
    Engineering Boeing, Ford, General Electric, Tesla Graduates can apply their computer science skills to careers in engineering, working in fields such as aerospace, automotive, and energy. They can contribute to the design and development of new products and systems.
    Medicine Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, Roche, Novartis Graduates can work in the medical industry, using their computer science skills to develop medical software and applications. They can contribute to the advancement of healthcare technology.
    Startups Uber, Airbnb, Slack, Dropbox Graduates can work for startups, contributing to the development of new technologies and products. They can work in various roles such as software engineer, data analyst, product manager, and more.
    Software applications developer Oracle, SAP, Salesforce, Adobe Graduates can work as software applications developers, designing and implementing software solutions. They can contribute to the development of new products and services.
    Systems analyst IBM, Accenture, Deloitte, Cognizant Graduates can work as systems analysts, analyzing and designing computer systems and networks. They can contribute to the development of new systems and networks.
    Network or database administrator Cisco, Oracle, Amazon Web Services  Graduates can work as network or database administrators, managing and maintaining computer networks and databases. They can contribute to the development of new networks and databases.

    115,891

    Average Starting Salary

    Cornell University MS in CS Employment Statistics

    Top employers include Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Meta, Oracle, Morgan Stanley, and Apple.

    89.8% of CS M.Eng. students landed competitive, high-paying jobs at graduation. Within six months of graduation, more than 91% of graduates were employed at top companies with an average starting salary of nearly $136,000.

    Companies Recruiting Cornell University MS in CS Graduates

    Here are the names of some companies that hire from Cornell University for MS in CS, along with a brief description of the company and the average pay they offer:

    Company Name Description Average Pay
    Facebook Social media and technology company $110,000 - $170,000 per year
    Google Tech giant specializing in internet-related services  $110,000 - $170,000 per year
    Microsoft Software and technology company $100,000 - $160,000 per year
    Amazon E-commerce and cloud computing company  $100,000 - $150,000 per year
    Apple A technology company specializing in consumer electronics  $100,000 - $150,000 per year
    IBM Technology and consulting company $100,000 - $150,000 per year
    Oracle Software and technology company $100,000 - $150,000 per year
    Adobe Software company specializing in digital media and marketing $100,000 - $150,000 per year
    Intel Technology company specializing in semiconductors and microprocessors $100,000 - $150,000 per year

    Employment Overview URL: https://www.cs.cornell.edu/masters/career-success#:~:text=program%20in%20Computer%20Science%20have,Eng.

    Cornell University MS in CS Alumni Info

    Alumni from the Cornell University MS in CS program come from diverse backgrounds and have pursued various careers in various industries. Some notable alumni include:

    1. Hakan Bas is the founder and CEO of Bas Software, which provides software solutions for the healthcare industry.
    2. Doug Chertok is the co-founder and CEO of Chertoff Capital, a private equity firm specializing in cybersecurity and technology investments.
    3. Niraj Shah: The co-founder and CEO of Wayfair, an online home goods retailer.
    4. Padmasree Warriors: He is the former CTO of Cisco Systems and the CEO of NIO, an electric vehicle company.
    5. Raunak Nirmal is the founder and CEO of Vault, a cloud-based data storage and backup solution.
    6. Lisa Skeete Tatum is the founder and CEO of Landit, a career development platform for women.
    7. Timothy Chi is the co-founder and CEO of WeddingWire, an online wedding planning platform.
    8. Gabriel Stricker is the former CMO of Twitter and Head of Communications at Alphabet.

    These alumni have become successful entrepreneurs, executives, and leaders in their respective fields. While their specific roles and industries may vary, they all share a common foundation in computer science and the skills they developed at Cornell University MS in CS.

    Statement of Purpose for Cornell University MS in CS

    To write a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) for the Cornell University MS in CS program, you should follow these guidelines:

    1. Format: The SOP should be a well-written, concise statement that explains your academic background, research interests, and career goals. It should be at most two pages in length.
    2. Layout: The SOP should be organised into clear sections with headings and subheadings. Use a font size of 11 or 12 points and double-spaced lines.
    3. Content: The SOP should include the following information:
         - Your academic background and achievements
         - Your research interests and how they align with the program at Cornell
         - Your career goals and how the MS in CS program will help you achieve them
         - Your reasons for choosing Cornell University and the MS in CS program
         - Any relevant work or research experience
    4. Tone: The SOP should be written in a professional and academic tone. Avoid using overly casual language or slang.
    5. Proofreading: Proofread your SOP carefully for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Have someone else read it to provide feedback and suggestions for improvement.

    Interview Questions for Cornell University MS in CS

    Preparing for your interview for the MSc in Computer Science program at Cornell University? Get ahead with confidence as we dive into the most commonly asked interview questions. Navigating through this crucial stage of the application process can be daunting, but with the right preparation and insight, you'll be well-equipped to showcase your skills and potential. Let's explore the key questions you may encounter, helping you to shine brightly and secure your spot in this prestigious program at Cornell University.

    • How do you keep yourself updated about the latest business trends and knowledge?
    • Explain your typical strategy when taking on a new project.
    • What do you think are the core competencies of a good business analyst?
    • Walk me through your resume.
    • What are your short-term and long-term career interests?
    • Who is your favorite professor? What was your favorite course in college?
    • How did you first learn about our MPS program? What about this program interests you most?
    • Can you share any past experiences you have working in a diverse environment?

    Cornell University MS in CS Scholarships available for International Students

    Cornell University MS in CS program offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students pursuing their MS in CS program.

    Here are some scholarships and their eligibility criteria:

    • Cornell University Scholarship: This scholarship is a need-based financial aid for international students. It is offered for undergraduate studies, but you can check with the university to see if it can also be applied to graduate programs.
    • COE Dean's Scholarships: These scholarships are available for students in the College of Engineering, which includes the Department of Computer Science. The eligibility criteria and application process are not specified on the website, so you should contact the department for more information.
    • Knight Scholarship: This scholarship is available through the College of Business. While it is not specific to the MS in CS program, you can check with the university to see if it can be applied to your schedule.

    What makes Cornell University MS in CS unique?

    Cornell University MS in CS program is unique in several ways:

    1. Highly selective: The program is very small and highly selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 9%.
    2. Advanced coursework: The program is designed for students who wish to deepen their knowledge of computer science coursework.
    3. Teaching and research: The program aims to establish an elite core of stellar Teaching Assistants (TAs) staffed by students who are very interested in teaching and research.
    4. Research opportunities: Cornell Computer Science faculty are leaders in cutting-edge research in many important areas, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, natural language processing, and more.
    5. Ideal for self-motivated students: The program is ideal for self-motivated students who have expository skills, enjoy the research environment, and like working with undergraduates in the classroom.

    Cornell University MS in CS Contact Information

    Whom should I contact in case of any doubts?

    Visitor Relations is the primary source of general information for students, staff members, visitors, and other guests of the Cornell community.

    If you are looking for a specific person or department at Cornell, search for them in our online directories or call Visitor Relations at (607) 254-4636. Information specialists are ready to help you.

    A NOTE ABOUT CORNELL TELEPHONE NUMBERS:
    Campus phone numbers are (607) 254-xxxx, (607) 255-xxxx, or (607) 253-xxxx. You may see these listed as five numbers, e.g. 5-2000, but from an off-campus phone, you'll need to dial the complete number including the area code.

    Contact Information
    Website: http://www.cs.cornell.edu/
    Email: phd@cs.cornell.edu
    Phone: 607 255-8593
    Address: 110C Gates Hall, Cornell University Ithaca, NY  14853

    Useful Links

    Cornell University MS in CS

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    Conclusion: Should you apply to Cornell University MS in CS?

    Cornell University MS in CS offers a highly selective and advanced MS in CS program, a supportive educational environment, and resources for students to thrive academically and personally. If you are an average student looking to study at top universities in USA for MS in computer science, Cornell university is the best option for you. 

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    Ask a Question

    Have Queries about Cornell University?

    Get Answers from Alums

    how good is cornell mps program?

    Being in the midst of my studies in the MPS program at Cornell, I can share that the experience varied and enriching. The program’s structure, which includes a mix of seminars, workshops, and hands-on projects. The program provides a dynamic learning environment. 

    One of the highlights for me has been the opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary projects, allowing for a broader understanding of various fields. The cultural diversity within different students across the corners of the world has been a learning experience in itself, offering different perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. 

    The program also emphasizes developing soft skills like communication and teamwork, which are important in any professional setting. Balancing the academic demands with extracurricular activities and networking events is challenging but adds to the unique educational experience that Cornell is known for.

     

    Can One pursue a master's of computer science without a bachelor's degree in computer science?

    The straight answer to your question can be YES. It is most possible to pursue a master in computer science without a bachelor in computer science degree. But it is a little complicated. Given your condition, it is understandable you have a different bachelor degree other than CS. The primary factor to consider here is which bachelor degree you have. We can play with two different scenarios here:


    You have a relevant bachelor degree. In this particular case, it is most likely that you can land any quality MSCS program in most institutes globally. In general, institutes do not limit students to enter for MSCS programs without a bachelor in CS. The reason here is the relevant subjects you have taken in your bachelor's. CS uses computer and scientific principles to deal with software systems and computational functions. So, if you are from an engineering background, you have most likely studied computational principles and foundations. Basically any computer related bachelor is a way to go.


    You do not have a relevant bachelor degree. In this scenario too, you can apply for a MSCS program. The only limitation is that many institutes specify subject tests for the program. And if the requirement is not flexible, you may get rolled out. It does not fit the conception of a master program as it is more common for under graduation. However it would be a good choice for you to aim for some programming experience to utilize the MSCS program better. Aslo, if you are not eligible for your choice program, consider services of Udemy, Coursera, EdX etc. They provide valuable certificates in computer science without any requirements.

    is mps Cornell a stem course to do?

    MPS Cornell stands for Master of Professional Studies at Cornell University. It's not categorized as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) course. MPS programs at Cornell are designed to provide specialized professional knowledge and skills, offering the mix of theoretical understanding and practical application in various fields. If you have a passion for a specific area outside the STEM domain, MPS Cornell could be an excellent choice to enhance your expertise and excel in your chosen field. 

     

    Can i do masters in CS ( Computer Science ) in USA after doing B.Sc Computer Science?

    An MS in computer science in the USA takes 1-2 years and is available at many educational universities. To secure admission in MS in Computer Science program, international students should have a four-year undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline with good scores in the GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) and one of the
    English language proficiency tests.  
    To pursue MS in computer science in the USA for Indian students means complying with the requisite criteria. Here’s taking a look at the same: 


     Candidates should have Bachelor’s or undergraduate degrees equivalent to Bachelor’s program in Computer Science in the USA. They may also have a degree in any technical discipline which is relevant. Aggregates of 3.0 GPA are a must out of 4.0 GPA. It means a minimum B grade with 83-86% of marks. 
     Another MS in computer science in USA eligibility criteria pertains to the GRE score. Students need to score anywhere between 292-328 to boost their chances. Most universities accept GRE cut-offs in this segment. For example, Stanford University takes GRE 328, while GRE 292 is good enough for Harvard University. Carnegie Mellon University accepts scores of 316, while the University of Washington takes 300. 
     Good scores are necessary for English language proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS. The minimum IELTS cut-off is usually 7, although institutions like the University of Southern California may accept 6.5 scores while some like Carnegie Mellon University insist on IELTS 7.5.

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