How to Get a Masters in Computer Science (MS in CS) Admit with a Non-CS Background

Published date: 15 Jun 2018 Updated on: 20 Feb 2020

The process of getting an admit to one of the most popular graduate programs in USA, i.e. a Masters in Computer Science (MS in CS) isn’t a piece of cake and instead requires diligent preparation. Despite all the hard work involved, it is highly popular among Indian students and preceded in popularity by the one and only - MBA. However, concerns are raised by students from a non-CS background who suddenly find their current pursuits unattractive or irrelevant in comparison to Computer Science and feel a transition to the latter would help them accomplish their long-term career goals. 

Journey from Non-Computer Science to Computer Science

For students to succumb to peer pressure or family pressure in India is not that unusual. The status quo attached with getting admission to top universities/colleges adds to the fear of making the wrong career choice leading many to choose specialization that may not be of interest to them. Reality hits with full force as the years advance and students come to realize the stark difference between their current pursuit and their actual interest. 

However, if you are already nearing your undergraduate degree, then changing course subjects to suit your changed goals is a bit difficult. That calls for putting extra hours in taking additional courses that could be overwhelming, cumbersome and take its toll. Several colleges don’t even allow for such a change. However, if you are in your first year or have just started with 2^nd year, there are good chances of switching streams or taking additional courses that align with your goal of getting an MS in CS.

All said and done, but before taking a leap, make sure you have a counselling session with career experts to avoid making the same mistake again.

Note:Transition from Electronics/ Electronics & Telecommunication/ Information Technology to Computer Science is not difficult as the streams share a few common subjects.

The answer for students who face ambiguity and are left high and dry in face of a non-computer background and inadequate counselling lies herein.

Secure Your Future with a Degree in Computer Science

Study of Computers or Computer Science as it is more popularly known has made a dramatic contribution to the world economy since the advent of computers. The cornerstone of the Silicon Valley and other ventures supported by technology has a ubiquitous presence which is felt by almost every industry not only in US but around the globe.

A further push has come from start-ups that have astoundingly invaded the tech scene by offering digital services for something as small as food delivery to homes to something as big as making secure online payments to bank accounts around the world. Not to forget an ever-optimistic and inspiring Elon Musk whose vision of Hybrid cars was ridiculed to the point of being ignored but ultimately revolutionized both the technology and auto industry once it was realized.

Non-CS Students: Time to Raise the Bar

USA largely remains the favourite when it comes to choosing the most preferred destination for higher studies especially for getting a Masters degree in Computers. With top ranking universities that have managed to rake excellent reviews over the last decades, USA is regarded as the epitome of best education by international students and academic fraternity alike.

The application prerequisites vary from institution to institution (see the section on ‘Universities offering MS in CS to non-CS students’ towards the end). The popularity of the specialization makes it rather competitive as the number of computer aspirants has seen a quantum leap and getting into the university of your choice may be difficult to accomplish. Some go the MOOC (Massive Open Online Courses) way which is an easy way to fulfilling prerequisites but do not hold same weightage as the actual coursework, hence is best avoided if you have set your eyes on a top ranked school.

1. USA Leads the Pack with Best Universities for MS in CS
2. Admission Prerequisites for MS in CS with a non-CS background

A Pre-emptive tactic against failure should be a well thought out plan. We offer a comprehensive list of “TO Dos” that is likely to ensure you a good place on the program in a good ranked university:

• If you’re in your undergrad, a cardinal approach is to take courses that are equivalent to prerequisite subjects and are likely to give you a common platform with students from CS background. Undergrad subjects such as Mathematics (Calculus & Statistics), Data Structure, Algorithm Analysis, Programming languages, Theory of Computation and Operating Systems are desired from non-CS applicants. Ability to crack code in languages such as Python, Javascript, Java, etc. could boost your resume.
• Some universities require a minimum score in certain prerequisite subjects. 
• When applying, applicants must include a cover letter or an essay (as is required by certain universities) that is a precise account of their professional accomplishments and outlines the purpose of their course of action (some institutions call it the “Statement of Purpose” or SOP). Use this as an opportunity to convince the selection committee of the skills and ideas you would bring to the table with your non-CS background.
• Translate applications to success with compelling Letters of Recommendation as they are highly regarded in high ranking US universities and seen as means of adding credibility to the application. It is good to ask your professors, academicians, managers, etc. whom you have worked closely with to establish plausibility and thus reflect your genuine interest in the respective university’s program through their testimonials.
• All the candidates are required to present a GRE score that may vary from college to college. High score in the quant section will position you better for securing an admit.
• A relevant IELTS/ TOEFL score to measure your proficiency in English. Applicants are advised to confirm with individual schools regarding their cut offs. 
• Relevant interdisciplinary research projects and 2+ years of work experience in Computers/Software industry is considered a great plus This will help offset the lack of a formal CS undergraduate degree.
• Research papers in prestigious journals would be a great way to demonstrate your interest and caliber in CS.
• Contribution to open source projects such as Google Summer of Code, Rails Girl Summer of Code, Apache projects, etc. are immensely popular and likely to give you first hand exposure to software development. Some experts and professors suggest creating your own mobile app or a large system and putting it on Github. Competitive programming is also helpful in establishing your caliber.

The Aforementioned points are key requirements without which getting an admit into CS is almost impossible. Increase your chance of getting accepted by following the practical tips below:

• First & foremost, visit the website of the university you wish to apply to and download the complete application checklist for the referral. Most universities dedicate a page to application procedure/prerequisites to make it easy for students to apply.
• One on one communication with the concerned university’s professor (CS department) could tilt the scale in your favour. Get in touch via email or call them to make sure you have what it needs to win them over.
• All universities advise students to submit their application well before time. 
• Check if the university offers scholarships that could reduce your financial burden. Higher studies in US is no mean task and a little bit leeway in form of scholarships could bring lot of relief. Most private universities have scholarship programs so make sure you have that aspect thoroughly checked.
• Certain universities like NYU, UPenn offer prep courses exclusively designed for non-CS students. 
• Gather an idea about the undergrad CS subjects taught in the university of your interest. The subjects are usually listed on the university’s website under the concerned department. It would help decide what subjects you may be required to take before applying.  
• Make sure you check the FAQ page of your desired universities. This single page carries enough information to answer most of your questions.
• Get in touch with the desired university’s CS grad students to gather information. 
• Last but not least, keep your Transcripts intact and your CV up to date.

Universities in USA offering MS in CS to Non-CS Students

The chances of non-CS students getting admission to Masters in CS in top universities is tough but possible. However, there is no need to get disheartened as nearly all universities/colleges in US have fairly reputed Computer science programs regardless of the school’s overall rank. 

Most universities welcome non-CS students for an MS in Computer Science. There are very few that do not entertain students from other backgrounds to enrol in their CS program and to get a list of those schools is not easy. Instead, we have compiled a list of schools that are reputed and invite non-CS students to apply to their MS in CS program.

1. UCLA
2. Stanford University
3. The University of Chicago
4. Yale University
5. NC State University
6. Georgia Tech College of Computing

It should come as a relief to some that despite program rankings, MS CS graduates are in great demand and do not have to struggle to find well paid jobs. As per Obama White House archives, the industry is likely to see a deficit of 1 million computer graduates by 2020 with 1.4 million computer science jobs but only 400,000 graduates available to fill them. Hence, take a deep breath, prep yourself up and get your bags ready for a future in technology.