Computer Science and Software Engineering

Richard LeBlanc, PhD, Department Chair
Yingwu Zhu, PhD, Graduate Program Director
Roshanak Roshandel, PhD, Graduate Program Director

The Computer Science and Software Engineering Department offers two distinct graduate degrees: the Master of Science in Computer Science and the Master of Software Engineering. The department also offers a Computer Science Fundamentals certificate as preparation for the MSCS program for students who do not have an undergraduate degree in computer science. The particular objectives and admission requirements for these two degree programs and the certificate are found in the sections that follow.

Master of Science in Computer Science

The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program offers a curriculum based on theoretical foundations and practical applications. The program is designed to provide advanced study in computer science for students with a substantial background in the discipline. Full-time students, registering for two courses per quarter, can complete the program in five quarters. The program also accommodates part-time students who can complete the program in three years.

The curriculum includes three required advanced courses in core areas of computer science and a required course in ethics and professional issues related to computing. A set of elective courses ensure students develop a solid, broad understanding of computer science. Under the supervision of a faculty member, students are required to complete a project spanning two to three quarters. The project consists of either implementing a software system or carrying out research within computer science. Software implementation projects enhance students’ programming skills and provide hands-on experiences in system design and building. Research projects culminate in a report suitable for publication, and provide excellent preparation for those who are pursuing research careers or further education in a doctoral program.

Admission Requirements

Applications for the Master of Science in Computer Science program are considered fall, winter, and spring quarters. All application materials should be sent to Graduate Admissions by the stated deadline for that quarter. The following documents are required for consideration:

Completed Application for Graduate Admission and non-refundable $55 application fee (waived for Seattle University alumni)
Four-year or equivalent bachelor’s degree, in computer science or related discipline, earned at a regionally accredited institution.
Minimum GPA of 3.00 calculated from official transcripts of all post-secondary educational institutions attended in the last 90 quarter/60 semester credits of your bachelor’s degree, including any transfer credits earned during this time, and any post-baccalaureate course work.
Completed Prerequisite form indicating plan for meeting required course work.
1-2 page letter of intent discussing background, interests, and reasons for wanting to pursue a master’s degree in computer science
Complete Pre-requisite Form indicating plan for meeting required coursework and relevant work experience.
Two academic or professional recommendations, using the MSCS recommendation form, from those who have evaluated the applicant’s academic work or supervised practical experience and are able to assess the applicant’s potential as a graduate students.
Professional resume summarizing academic and related work experience, if any.
Official Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General Test results from within the past five years. The Subject Test in Computer Science is optional.
If English is not the applicant’s native language, official English proficiency scores meeting the university’s entrance requirements are necessary. See policy #2008-01 in Admissions Policies for details.

Master of Software Engineering

The Master of Software Engineering (MSE) program at Seattle University is designed for working professionals. Our classes are typically offered in the evenings. The program builds on the computing experience of its students by providing course work in a variety of software engineering and computer science topics, with an emphasis on teamwork and a disciplined approach to software development. We offer a balanced curriculum of technical and management courses, with a choice of elective streams to address areas of personal interest. The principles and techniques learned throughout the course work are integrated into a year-long software project as the capstone experience. Seattle University has long been a leader in software engineering education. It established its pioneering MSE program in 1979, and awarded the world’s first MSE degree in 1982. Our graduate faculty has extensive industrial experience as well as strong academic credentials. Our curriculum has been shaped by close contacts with local industry, ensuring that courses are relevant to the workplace and that projects are tailored to the professional needs of our students.

Admission Requirements

Applications for the Master of Software Engineering program are considered for fall, winter, and spring quarters. All application materials should be sent to Graduate Admissions by the stated deadline for that quarter. Late applicants can only be considered as non-matriculating students and on a space available basis. The following documents are required for consideration:

Completed Application for Graduate Admission and non-refundable $55 application fee (waived for Seattle University alumni)
Evidence of four-year or equivalent bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related discipline from a regionally accredited institution
Minimum GPA of 3.00 calculated from official transcripts of all post-secondary educational institutions attended in the last 90 quarter/60 semester credits of your bachelor’s degree, including any transfer credits earned during this time, and any post-baccalaureate course work
Résumé reflecting two years of experience in software development or maintenance
Completed Master of Software Engineering Applicant Information form noting working knowledge of at least one programming language
Professional autobiography
Two professional recommendations using MSE recommendation forms. At least one should be from a supervisor.
Official Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General Test results from within the past five years. The Subject Test in Computer Science is optional.
If English is not the applicant’s native language, official English proficiency scores meeting the university’s entrance requirements are necessary. See policy 2008-01 in Admissions Policies for details.

Certificate in Computer Science Fundamentals

The Computer Science Fundamentals certificate program provides a way for students who lack a background in the computer science discipline to develop knowledge and skills necessary for success in the MSCS program and for entry level employment in the software industry. (Completion of this certificate program does NOT guarantee admission to the MSCS program.) The certificate program consists of three six-credit courses in software design, computer systems and algorithms. These courses are offered at night over the three quarters of an academic year.

Admission Requirements

Completed Application for Graduate Admission and non-refundable $55 application fee (waived for Seattle University alumni)
Evidence of four-year or equivalent bachelor’s degree
Evidence of course work, or other experience, in computer programming and basic data structures*
If English is not the applicant’s native language, official English proficiency scores meeting the university’s entrance requirements are necessary. See policy #2008-01 in Admissions Policies for details.

*Students who lack this background can take an introductory sequence in the summer prior to the start of the certificate program