Master of Science with a Major in Applied Computer Science
11 courses | 36 credit hours
The online Master of Science in Applied Computer Science degree is a professional program that provides individuals holding an undergraduate degree in any discipline the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as a software developer.
For more information, please see the Academic Catalog.
The program offers a practical and focused curriculum that prepares graduates to enter the information technology job market as software developers upon graduation. All classes are taught by highly qualified faculty with both academic and industry experience. Course work includes web technologies, program construction, software development, database systems, advanced tools and techniques, and a final project experience designed to integrate knowledge and skills across courses with teamwork and professional practices.
Visit the Computer Science program website for additional information about the program.
Contact for Program Specific Questions: Dr. Michael Orsega
Career Opportunities
Buzzfile - Careers by Major:
http://www.buzzfile.com/Major/Computer-Science
External Resource
Program Location
Online
Method of Delivery
All course work is delivered online via the Internet. There are no requirements to come to campus or take proctored exams. Much of the course work will be done individually, although students may occasionally be expected to participate in online group meetings.
Accreditation
The University of West Georgia is accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Credit and transfer
Total semester hours required: 36
Maximum Hours Transferable into program: 0*
*No credits can be transferred
This program is offered entirely online. Though a student may choose to sign-up for a face-to-face elective or core course, one can earn this degree completely online.
Save money
UWG is often ranked as one of the most affordable accredited university of its kind, regardless of the method of delivery chosen. In addition, online courses and programs can mean a huge cost-savings in many non-evident ways: No more high gas charges. No childcare needed. The flexibility can allow one to maintain a job while attending school. Regardless of state residency, out-of-state non-resident students are not charged non-resident tuition for online course credit hours.
Details
- Total tuition costs and fees may vary, depending on the instructional method of the courses in which the student chooses to enroll.
- The more courses a student takes in a single term, the more they will typically save in fees and total cost.
- Face-to-Face or partially online courses are charged at the general tuition rate and all mandatory campus fees, based on the student's residency (non-residents are charged at a higher rate).
- Fully or entirely online course tuition rates and fees my vary depending on the program. Students enrolled in exclusively online courses do not pay non-Resident rates.
- Together this means that GA residents pay about the same if they take all face-to-face or partially online courses as they do if they take only fully online courses exclusively; while non-residents save money by taking fully online courses.
- One word of caution: If a student takes a combination of face-to-face and online courses in a single term, they will pay both all mandatory campus fees and the higher eTuition rate.
- For the cost information, as well as payment deadlines, see the Student Accounts and Billing Services website
There are a variety of financial assistance options for students, including scholarships and work study programs. Visit the Office of Financial Aid's website for more information.
Coursework
All students take courses according to a set plan of study as part of a cohort. A visual representation of the program curriculum is available in the Course Flowchart and Plan of Study (PDF, 190 KB). The program offers courses each semester according to the cohort rotation.
The program can be completed in 2 years.
Session or Semester 1
An introduction to the design, development, and implementation of web sites using client-side technologies. Students are expected to develop a dynamic web site using current industry best practices for client-side development.
An introduction to object-oriented design and programming using fundamental software engineering principles and concepts. Students are expected to develop an object-oriented application using current industry best practices for program development.
Session or Semester 2
A continuation of CS 6251: design, development, and implementation of web sites using client- and server-side technologies. Students are expected to develop a dynamic web site using current industry best practices for client- and sever-side development.
A continuation of CS 6311. Students are expected to develop a moderately complex object-oriented application using current industry best practices for program development.
Session or Semester 3
This course covers software design, implementation, testing, and deployment using industry-standard tools, frameworks, and best practices.
Integration of core knowledge and skills in program construction and web technologies with teamwork and professional practices through directed participation in the implementation of a significant software project.
Session or Semester 4
Fundamental concepts of database systems; hierarchical, network and relational database management systems; data definition and manipulation languages; security and integrity; and implementation considerations. Students are expected to complete a project in database administration and development.
This course introduces the software development process while improving programming skills. Topics include object-oriented programming, test-driven development, class design, GUI design and programming, and incremental, iterative development. The coursework assumes that the student has fundamental programming, debugging, and code-interpretation skills in an object-oriented programming language.
Session or Semester 5
Advanced concepts in database systems; object-oriented systems; distributed database systems; and concurrency control. Students will be introduced to current professional certification processes and standards.
This course continues the introduction of the software development process begun in CS 6241. Topics include software development process models, process management, requirements specification, and software modeling.
Session or Semester 6
Comprehensive integration of knowledge and skills attained in the program with teamwork and professional practices through the implementation of a significant software project.
Lewis Baumstark, Ph.D.
Professor of Computer Science & Program Coordinator
Michael Orsega, Ph.D.
Associate Professor & Head of Computer Science Graduate Studies
Anja Remshagen, Ph.D.
Professor
Li Yang, Ph.D.
Professor
Duane Yoder, Ph.D.
Chair, Department of Mathematics, Sciences, & Technology
Guidelines for Admittance
All graduate applicants must complete the online Graduate Application.
See Graduate Studies Application Process International applicants are subject to additional requirements and application deadlines. See Procedures for International Students
Official transcripts from all schools attended are required and should be sent directly to the UWG Graduate Admissions Office.
Program Specific Admittance Guidelines
- Current resume or CV
- Personal narrative letter that explains the intent for pursuing the degree and lists specific reasons why you are a good fit for the particular program
- 3 letters of recommendation from professional references. Electronic Recommendation Request forms will be available after your application has been submitted online.
These items may be uploaded to your application after submission.
Application Deadlines
This degree has a rolling admission process where students may apply at anytime. Cohorts start only in the Fall semester. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible. The deadline for a completed application for Fall semester is July 1st.
Admission Process Checklist
The Graduate Studies Application Process checklist is available here.
One exception: If you will not ever be traveling to a UWG campus or site, you may apply for an Immunization Exemption. Contact the Immunization Clerk with your request.
Contact
Graduate Admissions
graduate@westga.edu
678-839-1394
Computer Science Head of Graduate Studies
Dr. Michael Orsega
The Computer Science program graduate page includes program information as well as other vital information.
This program only admits during Fall semesters. We have a rolling admission process where students may apply at any time. Cohorts start in the Fall semester. The deadline for a completed application for Fall semester is July 1st. Students are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible. Apply Today!
If you have any program-specific questions, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Michael Orsega, Head of Computer Science Graduate Studies.
Specific Graduate Admissions Deadlines are available via the Graduate School
- Recognize and analyze social, professional, and ethical issues and responsibilities they may face as computing professionals.
- Prepare and give effective technical presentations using appropriate technologies.
- Write clear and accurate technical documents.
- Effectively function as a member of a team engaged in the process of modeling, designing, and implementing computer based systems of varied complexity utilizing multiple technologies.