Overall, we look for a strong academic record. An undergraduate major in Computer Science is not required for admissions, but some academic background in Computer Science is needed. At a minimum, applicants should have taken the equivalent of the Rensselaer course CSCI-2300 Introduction to Algorithms. You should also have some math background, including courses in calculus, discrete structures, and linear algebra. An academic background in Computer Science is more important than professional experience in the field.

GRE general test

TOEFL score of 230 CBT/88 iBT/570 PBT (IELTS 6.5 or PTE 60)

The Master of Science degree in Computer Science at Rensselaer is a technical degree from which students may advance to positions of responsibility in the computing field with a solid foundation of knowledge to serve them. A number of students will continue into Ph.D. study and will be similarly well prepared. An M.S. degree provides considerable flexibility for management and leadership positions within the private and public sectors. RPI's M.S. students have benefitted from both the strong problem-solving orientation of CS faculty researchers as well as the culture of technology and application of the institution and within the curriculum.

Program Details

Students may choose a research track for their M.S. by conducting original research and writing a thesis, or work towards a more applied MS project.