Online Master’s in Computer Science Specializations
Should you pursue a general computer science degree, or is a more nuanced focus the best choice?
It depends on your goals. A general computer science degree provides a broad foundation in computer science, covering a wide variety of topics like programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, and networking.
Specialized programs allow you to dive deeper into a specific area of computer science, opening up specific career paths with potentially higher demand.
Consider the following specializations:
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your personal preferences and career aspirations, but you want to keep in mind how each degree can affect your future.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence is the study of machines’ simulation of human intelligence. AI specialists use tools and data to train smart machines to solve real-world problems. According to limited July 2023 Payscale data, these professionals pull in an average salary of $137,220 for their work. Earning a degree in artificial intelligence means diving deep into AI ethics, machine learning, and natural language processing.
People with a strong academic background in discrete mathematics, multivariate calculus, and linear algebra may use this degree to launch their careers into data or research science.
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing refers to the delivery of on-demand services through the internet. Think of Google Photos or Amazon Web Services for examples. Experts in this field may be network engineers who manage large-scale cloud migrations. To earn their degree, these professionals take courses such as cloud computing migrations and decisive thinking, communicating, and leading in technology fields.
Applicants need a strong background in information technology along with excellent technical writing skills. Graduates can pursue careers as cloud architects, administrators, or analysts.
Computer Networks
Computer networks are the interconnected devices that exchange information and resources between machines. Network engineers, administrators, and technicians help build these networks or keep them functioning. Majoring in this field could involve taking courses such as applied cryptography, optical fiber communication systems, and wireless internet and pervasive computing.
Featured Master’s in Computer Networks Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Aspiring network specialists need strong technical skills and a knack for solving complex problems under pressure. People with both a background in IT and a master’s in computer science may effectively compete for networking roles.
Computer Science
Computer science is a dynamic field, offering near-endless possibilities to create innovative solutions and shape the future of tech. Graduates may advance in one of many careers that require interdisciplinary knowledge and expert facility with information systems. This degree can also serve as the foundation for a Ph.D. or other doctoral program.
Featured Master’s in Computer Science Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Pursuing computer science is crucial as tech revolutionizes every industry. It may be the ideal concentration for aspiring tech entrepreneurs, researchers, or postsecondary educators.
Cybersecurity
With a cybersecurity degree, you can become an information security analyst, making around $102,600 per year by protecting systems from hackers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2023. Classes cover topics like network security, ethical hacking, and digital forensics along with internship and research opportunities. It’s an exciting field where you get to outsmart the bad guys.
Featured Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
This concentration is perfect for tech-savvy problem-solvers who love puzzles. In 2023, the BLS projects that information security analyst jobs will grow by 35% between 2020 and 2030. Internships, certifications, and networking can help crack the code to a career in cybersecurity.
Data Science and Analytics
Data analytics is the wizardry of numbers. More specifically, it’s the process of gathering, analyzing, and structuring data to gain meaningful insights, make informed predictions, and encourage smart decision-making.
With this degree, you can become a database architect or administrator, crunching information to reveal insights that business leaders can use to get a leg up on the competition. According to the BLS, data professionals earn around $101,000 annually as of 2023. Classes cover machine learning, data mining, data visualization, and cloud computing.
Featured Master’s in Data Science and Analytics Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
This degree is perfect for curious minds who love digging into data. Data-related jobs are growing at all levels, and graduates may pursue a hands-on career or advance to a Ph.D. Applicants should already be proficient programmers with skills in R, C++, Python, and Java.
Database Systems
Database systems professionals organize the digital world. It’s a crucial field where you keep information flowing smoothly and securely. This degree prepares aspiring database administrators and business intelligence consultants. Enrollees take courses such as database theory, data systems for machine learning, and data models in a big data era.
People who love managing information may find this degree a perfect fit. In addition to a master’s program, professionals may want to gain hands-on experience and earn certifications to advance their careers.
Human-Computer Interaction
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is all about crafting user-friendly tech. It’s a field where you get to make technology more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. With this degree, you can become a UX designer, earning around $77,500 per year according to Payscale in July 2023. Classes cover user interface design and evaluation, design of online communities, and cognitive modeling.
Throughout college, it’s important to build a strong portfolio, gain internships, and collaborate on real-world projects in order to land a rewarding UX/UI role.
Machine Learning
Machine Learning is simply teaching computers to learn. In this cutting-edge field, you get to build smart systems that adapt and improve over time. With a machine learning degree, you can become a machine learning engineer, earning around $115,000 yearly as of July 2023 per Payscale. Classes may include graph algorithms, computational complexity theory, and Markov Chain Monte Carlo.
Pursuing machine learning is vital as AI transforms entire industries. After graduation, tackle projects, contribute to open-source machine learning, and network to secure an exciting career.
Software Engineering
Software engineers build useful programs and applications using coding skills. In this field, you can earn $114,000 per year according to Payscale’s data from July 2023. Students explore coding languages, software design principles, and project management techniques. Classes may also include hands-on opportunities such as getting to fix a bug in a program.
Featured Master’s in Software Engineering Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Software engineering is an ideal major for technical specialists who enjoy a hands-on approach to building new computer programs. Graduates may become software engineers, project managers, or developers.
