Can You Get a Master’s in Computer Science Online with an Unrelated Bachelor’s?

Today, digital tools touch every aspect of our lives, from healthcare to education — and that means that demand for qualified computer science (CS) professionals is rising fast, with companies in every industry vying for talent.

Careers in computer science fields like software engineering, AI, cybersecurity and DevOps can come with high salaries and excellent benefits, and this versatile field offers plenty of room for growth. That also means that standing out from the competition can be tough. One way to attain the skills you need to succeed and the qualifications that employers are looking for is to earn a master’s degree. But can you get a master’s in computer science without a CS background? 

Who Is a Master’s in Computer Science For?

Individuals who have a strong interest in computing and programming and wish to build a career in the field may be well suited for a master’s in computer science. If you’re new to computer science, a master’s degree is an excellent way to pivot into a new career and qualify for potentially lucrative opportunities. A master’s can also be a good choice for individuals who have a background in the field and wish to advance into higher-level positions, or for self-taught computer science professionals seeking a formal qualification.

While some students with a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field may choose to pursue a second undergraduate degree in computer science, that route can take longer and cost more money than a master’s degree. Programs like Franklin’s pathway to a master’s in computer science, on the other hand, can get you up to speed with foundational skills and help you build a higher-level of expertise than you would attain from an undergraduate program. 

What matters most when choosing a master’s program? Compare features, benefits and cost to find the right school for you.

What Do You Learn in a Master’s in Computer Science Program?

Master’s programs in computer science teach students advanced skills in programming, implementation tools, software analysis, database management and more. Since success in computer science requires more than technical skills alone, these degrees also prepare students to work with stakeholders across an organization to identify, implement and troubleshoot systems that help the business meet its objectives. 

Some master’s degree programs, like Franklin’s online M.S. in Computer Science, allow students to tailor their degrees around specific areas of interest to prepare for more specialized roles. Examples of focus areas include cybersecurity, data analytics and software systems. Or, you might choose to build a broad base of knowledge by pursuing elective coursework across specialities. 

What Are the Requirements for a Master’s in Computer Science?

Requirements for enrolling in an M.S. in CS program vary between schools. Generally speaking, to earn a master’s degree, you will need to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. 

Some schools require graduate admissions exams, such as the GRE or GMAT, or expect applicants to demonstrate fluency in certain programming languages or mathematical concepts. Many programs require a certain minimum GPA, transcripts and letters of recommendation. 

Can You Get a Master’s in Computer Science without CS Undergrad?

Many master’s in computer science programs require applicants to hold an undergraduate degree in computer science, engineering, or related fields such as mathematics. Others require that students without a relevant degree complete prerequisite coursework before applying. 

Franklin University’s M.S. in Computer Science offers a pathway program for students with a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated discipline. You can apply without completing prerequisite coursework, no matter what you studied as an undergraduate. Once you are admitted, you will need to complete three core corequisite courses covering foundational programming, data structures and mathematics, in addition to the master’s degree coursework. 

If you do not hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, but have worked as a software engineer, developer, or programmer, your work experience can be evaluated by the program chair upon request. Resumes, work samples and personal interviews may all be used to determine the depth of knowledge in these areas.

What Can You Do with a Master’s in Computer Science?

A master’s in computer science can help you earn a wide array of positions inside and outside of the technology industry. Common job titles and median advertised salaries include the following:

Computer Systems Analyst

• Median advertised salary: $105,200

Computer systems analysts assess, maintain and upgrade an organization’s digital infrastructure. They also identify and implement appropriate systems to meet new business needs.

Computer Programmer

• Median advertised salary: $105,900

Computer programmers write and edit scripts for software programs and mobile applications. They may specialize in specific programming languages or types of software. They also help to troubleshoot software issues and identify and fix issues with code. 

Software Quality Assurance Analyst or Tester

• Median advertised salary: $114,600

Software quality assurance professionals ensure that software is functional and free from bugs before it’s released to consumers. They also work to identify and address problems that arise after a product is on the market. 

Computer Network Architect

• Median advertised salary: $114,900

Computer network architects design, build and maintain data communications infrastructures for organizations of all sizes. 

Information Security Analyst

• Median advertised salary: $120,200

Information security analysts work within organizations to protect their data and networks from risks like cybercrime by planning and implementing security measures, such as firewalls. 

Database Architect

• Median advertised salary: $124,200

Database architects build and maintain data storage systems for organizations to ensure that their data is safe, organized and readily accessible.

Software Developer

• Median advertised salary: $128,300

Software developers design, develop and update programs, applications and games. In addition to building the tools we all use each day, they also work on programs and systems that industries and companies use behind the scenes. 

Computer and Information Systems Managers

• Median advertised salary: $155,400

Computer and information systems managers oversee IT-related projects and infrastructure within organizations. They are responsible for ensuring that an organization and its employees have the tools they need to meet business goals. 

Prepare for a Computer Science Career at Franklin University

If you have a creative, analytical mind and wish to pursue a career with ample room for growth, computer science may be right for you. Transitioning into a new field can be daunting, which is why Franklin University’s 100% online M.S. in Computer Science offers a targeted pathway for students without a computer science background. In as little as two years, you can complete the corequisite and graduate coursework to earn your degree and transition into a challenging and rewarding new role. 

You’ll learn from expert practitioners in the field and gain hands-on experience with tools like SQL/MariaDB, MongoDB, Java, industry-level cloud native development framework, containerization and deployment tooling and Git. Throughout your degree program, Franklin’s faculty will provide the support and guidance you need to master new skills. And the program’s flexible, online format means you won’t have to sacrifice your personal or professional lives to learn.

Find out how an online master’s in computer science from Franklin University can help you move forward. 

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