Degree Requirements

Students in the full-time Master of Science in Computer Science program at DigiPen must fulfill a number of requirements to graduate.

Number of Credits and GPA

The full-time MS in Computer Science degree program requires completion of at least 30 semester credits with a grade “C” (or 2.0 quality points) or above in each course and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. The program typically spans three semesters usually over the course of 12 months. For candidates with a lack of experience in computer graphics or mathematics, some articulation classes may be required.

Waived Required Courses: Required courses can be waived on a case-by-case basis for qualified students. The academic advisor will decide on whether or not to approve these requests. In any case, students are required to satisfactorily complete a minimum of 30 semester credits to earn a MS in Computer Science degree. 

Length Restrictions

Students in the full-time MS in Computer Science degree program are expected to complete the degree requirements within 12 months and must complete the program in no more than 18 months. All students are required to maintain continuous matriculation throughout the duration of the degree program.

Capstone Experience

Completion of a capstone experience is required for the MS in Computer Science degree. This is designed to bring reflection and focus to a student’s area of concentration and to enhance the skills, methodology, and knowledge learned throughout the degree program.

Students must select one of three options: research thesis, applied project, or comprehensive exam. The research thesis option is designed for students who wish to develop analytic research skills and to make an original contribution to the field. The applied project option allows students to advance their professional careers through a hands-on experience or practical application of their study. The comprehensive exam option is intended for those preferring extended knowledge and broader skills in computer science or a related discipline.

1. Research Thesis (CS 601 and CS 602)

Students choosing this option must identify an area of interest within the discipline of computer science, computer engineering, mathematics, physics, or game production. They shall conduct a literature survey on existing techniques and algorithms in the field, propose an innovative approach to the field, develop the theory and prototypes, and write and defend the thesis.

2. Applied Project

In this option, students must identify a real-world problem or industry-relevant challenge within the field of computer science. They will design and implement a practical software or systems-based solution that demonstrates advanced technical and analytical skills. The project must include a proposal, design documentation, development of a working product or prototype, and a final report and presentation that evaluates outcomes, challenges, and impact.

3. Extra Coursework with Comprehensive Exam

This option allows a student to take one or two additional electives offered at the graduate level to replace CS 602 or both CS 601 and CS 602, along with the satisfactory completion of a comprehensive exam.

The comprehensive examination tests a student’s knowledge of basic computer science material and material covered by the chosen concentration area. The exam is based on graduate courses and suitable undergraduate material. To schedule an examination, the student shall complete the Comprehensive Examination Request Form no later than six weeks prior to the proposed examination date. The student and his or her academic advisor need to sign the form.

The comprehensive examination consists of two parts - general and subject. The general part of the examination covers core computer science topics and includes all four of the following:

• Algorithms
• Data Structures
• Advanced C++ (CS 525)
• Advanced Graphics (CS 541)

The subject part of the examination covers topics from a student’s chosen concentration area (see Degree Requirements section).

Each of the two parts of the examination will be given in a three-hour period and may be taken either on the same day or on different days. The student’s final grade will be given based on individual performance in each of the two exams. Instructors will provide a syllabus of the material covered by the exam.

The outcome of the comprehensive examination will be one of the following:

• Pass - Student earns a grade of 75% or higher in each of the two parts of the examination.
• Conditional Pass - given in rare borderline cases where a student may need to fulfill additional requirements, such as retaking one part of the examination.
• Fail - Student is required to retake both parts of the examination.