Computer Science

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

Web: http://www.seattleu.edu/scieng/computer-science/

The Computer Science Department offers a Master of Science in Computer Science graduate degree. As part of this graduate degree program, students have the option to obtain a specialization in Software Engineering. The department also offers two graduate certificate programs: the Computer Science Fundamentals certificate and the Software Engineering certificate. The particular objectives and admission requirements for the graduate degree program, software engineering specialization, and two certificates 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 required 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. The department offers three options for students to complete their degree program:

Research option: Students have the option to carry out research under the supervision of a faculty member spanning two quarters. 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.
Software engineering specialization:Students have the option to obtain a specialization in software engineering by choosing prescribed electives and completing a two-quarter team software project as the capstone experience under the supervision of a faculty member.
Course only option: A course-only option is also available which requires completion of a seminar class along with a selection of elective courses.

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. See policy #2008-01 in Admissions Policies for details.

Certificate in Computer Science Fundamentals

The Computer Science Fundamentals graduate 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.) This certificate program consists of six three-credit courses in software design, databases, 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. 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

Certificate in Software Engineering

The Software Engineering graduate certificate program provides students with specialized knowledge and training in software engineering. This certificate program consists of required courses in software requirements, architecture and design, software testing, and a choice of an elective. These courses are part of the MSCS with a specialization in software engineering program and require advanced undergraduate coursework in computer science. Courses in this certificate program can be applied towards earning an MSCS degree.

Admissions 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 in computer science or a related discipline from a regionally accredited institution
Professional resume summarizing academic and related work experience, if any.
If English is not the applicant’s native language, official English proficiency scores meeting the university’s entrance requirements. See policy #2008-01 in Admissions Policies for details.