Computer Science, M.S.
School of Natural and Behavioral Sciences
Program Overview
CUNY’s top computer and information science department will position you to lead this continually evolving and dynamic field. Access cutting-edge resources for learning all the latest and most advanced computer and information science systems, programs, applications, and theories. Our faculty experts are leaders who stand at the forefront of the digital-world curve. The department is also an active participant in the Performance and Interactive Media Arts M.F.A. program.

Program Details
The program information listed here reflects the approved curriculum for the 2024–25 academic year per the Brooklyn College Bulletin. Bulletins from past academic years can be found here.
Matriculation Requirements
Applicants are expected to have the equivalent of at least 15 credits in computer and information science and related areas, including the following: knowledge of a high-level computer language (preferably C++ or Java), knowledge of assembly language and computer architecture, a course in discrete structures, a course in data structures, and a course in calculus. Students who do not have these requirements can be accepted with the condition that they complete these courses at the undergraduate level.
Students in the health informatics specialization must also have 18 credits in health or science related courses. Calculus can be waived for this specialization.
For all concentrations, applicants can be conditionally accepted if they are short of no more than two prerequisites.
General matriculation and admission requirements of Graduate Studies are in the Admissions Requirements section.
Program Requirements (30 Credits)
Thirty are required for the degree. Students must maintain at least a B (3.00) average. Students must complete 30 credits in courses numbered 7000 and above.
Up to 10 credits in courses in other departments may be substituted, with the permission of the graduate deputy chair. There are three specializations:
- Computation
- Health Informatics
- Information Systems
All students must complete each of the following core courses:
- CISC 7540—Software Methodology
- CISC 7510 or 7512—Database Systems or Advanced Database Systems
- CISC 7700—Intro to Data Science
- CISC 7302—Computer Architecture
Additional electives courses in CISC 7000 level may be needed to complete the 30-credit requirement.
Courses should be selected in consultation with the program adviser.
As an exit requirement, all students must complete one of the following:
- CISC 7990G and a thesis acceptable to the department; no more than six credits in thesis research may be counted toward the degree; or
- Pass a written comprehensive examination; or
- Health informatics specialization students only may substitute CISC 7980G—Health Informatics Internship or a research project, with permission of the department chair or designee. The internship is the preferred option for the health informatics specialization.
As an exception to the general college rule, the comprehensive examination in the Department of Computer and Information Science may be taken in the term preceding the one in which the student will complete all course requirements for the degree. However, all other college regulations concerning the comprehensive examination still apply. Students are strongly advised to take advantage of this exception and to take the comprehensive examination in the earlier semester.
Student Learning Outcomes
Program Goals
Students will:
- Demonstrate strong programming skills involving at least two object oriented language.
- Be able to write a significant application that efficiently utilizes a database for data storage and retrieval.
- Be knowledgeable about software design processes and methodologies
- Have a strong understanding of operating system concepts.
- Have a strong understanding of theoretical computer science concepts.
- Be able to analyze the complexity and compare various algorithms to solve problems.
- Demonstrate oral and written communication skills necessary to read, write, and speak effectively about concepts in computing.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
Students will:
- Be knowledgeable about software design processes and methodologies.
- Have a strong understanding of operating system concepts.
- Have a strong understanding of theoretical computer science concepts.
Practical Competencies
Students will:
- Demonstrate strong programming skills involving at least two object oriented language.
- Be able to write a significant application that efficiently utilizes a database for data storage and retrieval.
- Be able to analyze the complexity and compare various algorithms to solve problems.
- Demonstrate oral and written communication skills necessary to read, write, and speak effectively about concepts in computing.
Admissions Requirements
- Fall Application Deadline—May 1, rolling admission
- Spring Application Deadline—December 1, rolling admission
Supporting Documents for Matriculation
Submit the following documents to the Office of Graduate Admissions:
- Transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Applicants who earned a bachelor’s degree outside the United States need to submit a course-by-course international transcript evaluation. See Graduate Admissions for more information.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Applicants are expected to have the equivalent of at least 15 credits in computer and information science and related areas, including all of the following: knowledge of a high-level computer language (preferably C++ or Java), knowledge of assembly language and computer architecture, a course in discrete structures, a course in data structures, and a course in calculus.
Required Tests
- F-1 or J-1 international students must submit English Proficiency Exam. TOEFL—79, IELTS—6.5, PTE—58–63, Duolingo—105–160.
Nondegree Applicants
This program accepts nondegree applicants.
More Information
Refer to the instructions at Graduate Admissions.
Contact
Katherine Chuang
1212 Ingersoll Hall
E: Katherine.Chuang@brooklyn.cuny.edu
P: 718.951.5000 ext. 2069
Or contact:
Office of Graduate Admissions
222 West Quad Center
2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11210
E: grads@brooklyn.cuny.edu
P: 718.951.4536
Office Hours
Mondays–Fridays, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
To make an appointment with a graduate admissions counselor, visit:
Specializations
Health Informatics
Students must complete:
- CISC 7450X—Computer Applications in Health Sciences
- Three courses from Health and Nutrition Sciences
The Support You’ll Find
Brooklyn College is an integral part of the cultural and artistic energy of New York City. Our faculty members in the Department of Computer and Information Science offer incomparable expertise and tremendous talent, and each brings a unique perspective to their teaching and mentoring in and out of the classroom.
Internships and Employers
Through job fairs, the internship database, and internship panels, the Magner Career Center gives students in the computer sciences M.S. program access to internships at a variety of companies.
Brooklyn College computer science alumni have found employment with many organizations, including:
- AT&T
- CBS
- Citibank
- Columbia University
- Harvard University
- KeySpan Energy
- MetLife
- New York City Department of Education
- Stanford University
