Is Doing MS in CS Abroad Worth It?

According to the latest reports from the Ministry of External Affairs, more than 1.3 million Indian students are currently enrolled in master's degree programs overseas, reflecting the widespread appeal of pursuing education abroad. Among these programs, a Master’s in Computer Science (MS in CS) is one of the most preferred choices among Indian students in 79 different countries.

Now, as you consider pursuing an MS in CS, it's important to recognize that this endeavor comes with a significant cost, approximately 50,000 USD. This may naturally lead to the question: Is doing MS in CS abroad worth it? In this blog, we aim to provide an answer to this pertinent question.

What is MS in CS?

Computer Science, as the name suggests, is centered on the examination of computers. Opting for a Master’s in Computer Science (MS in CS) offers a thorough understanding of the theoretical and hands-on facets of computing. This program covers a range of areas, encompassing computer architecture, coding, and cybersecurity. As a result, you'll delve into computer hardware and software, programming languages, data analysis, network systems, and the principles of crafting databases.

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Top 7 reasons for doing MS in CS

Here are the top 7 reasons that answer - Is doing MS in CS abroad worth it?

• Surge in demand: more jobs requiring an MS in CS
• Gaining niche skills
• Unlocking higher earning potential
• Better job roles and increased versatility
• Launchpad to research and academia
• Opportunity for early access to cutting-edge technology
• Broadened professional network

Surge in demand: more jobs requiring an MS in CS:

The foremost reason that can answer the question 'Is pursuing an MS in CS abroad worth it?' is the surge in demand for individuals with an MS in CS degree. The world is rapidly advancing in technology, and it is expected that technology will be integrated into every aspect of the future. An MS in CS equips you with both practical and theoretical skills that will be in high demand. According to the labor market analytics company EMSI, employment opportunities for individuals holding a master's degree in computer science are projected to increase by 15.5% in the next decade, which amounts to more than 1,000,000 jobs.

Gaining niche skills:

Technology is present in every aspect of business and as the prominence is technology continues to grow doing an MS in CS abroad will prove to be a good idea. Holding a bachelor's degree may help you to gain some foundation technical skills with the increased development of technology the problems arising are also becoming more complex. In order to resolve these complex problems you need specialized skills that you can only gain through focusing on niche skills.

There are several specializations that you can choose from including Artificial Intelligence, Big Data Analysis, Machine Learning, and more. These specializations of MS in CS help you to learn emerging technological skills like Applied Machine Learning, Cryptography, Database Management, latest programming languages.

Unlocking higher earning potential:

An MS in CS degree can significantly boost your earning potential compared to counterparts without a degree in MS in CS. Among all master’s degree categories, computer science graduates are projected to be top earners. According to data from Payscale, having a bachelor's degree in CS typically yields an annual salary of around 85,000 USD.

However, obtaining a master's degree in CS can result in an average yearly income of 101,000 USD, marking a 16,000 USD increase, even early in your career. Generally, individuals with an MS in CS tend to earn more than those with other degrees.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2022, the average annual salary for someone with an MS in CS is approximately 100,530 USD, while those with other degrees have an average salary of 46,300 USD per year.

Better job roles and increased versatility:

An MS in CS degree can empower you with the ability to potentially bypass the traditional route of climbing the corporate ladder to reach senior positions within a company, increasing your prospects of securing a senior role directly. This is precisely why individuals aspiring to attain more senior-level job titles or positions often opt for a master's degree in CS.

Regardless of the specialized skills acquired during your MS in CS program, upon graduation, you become highly adaptable. With an MS in CS, you open doors to a wide range of career opportunities, including roles such as Computer Scientist, Data Engineer, Information Security Manager, Machine Learning Analyst, Risk Management Analyst, and many more.

Launchpad to research and academia:

If your career aspirations lean toward the realms of research or academia within the field of computer science, obtaining an MS in CS frequently serves as a crucial initial step toward entering a Ph.D. program. Not only does it showcase your unwavering dedication to the discipline, but it also furnishes you with a robust knowledge base and skill set, laying a solid groundwork for embarking on advanced research ventures within the expansive domain of computer science.

It offers benefits such as funding for your research, up to 30,000 USD in some cases, and full research funding in others. You can collaborate with renowned scholars from prestigious universities like Cambridge or Oxford.

Opportunity for early access to cutting-edge technology

When enrolled in a reputable university, you are guaranteed the opportunity to gain practical experience with cutting-edge technologies available in their well-equipped laboratories. These state-of-the-art tools not only facilitate your research endeavors but also ensure hands-on familiarity with the latest technological trends and advancements within your field.

The University of Arizona once spent part of a 1.3 Million USD grant on a new supercomputer which ranked 336th on the list of the world’s 500 fastest. This invaluable exposure keeps you thoroughly updated on the dynamic landscape of your chosen domain, enhancing both your academic journey and future career prospects.

Broadened professional network

Pursuing a master's degree expands your professional network by offering you the chance to engage, collaborate, and learn from esteemed professors and fellow students. These connections can play a crucial role in shaping your career, providing mentorship, guidance, and future opportunities as you advance in your professional journey. For example, you can end up assisting an esteemed professor in his/her research. 

The decision of whether pursuing an MS in CS is worthwhile or not ultimately hinges on your personal choices, which should take various factors into account, including financial considerations and future goals. The reasons mentioned above for studying MS in CS serve as some points that may tilt the balance in favor of pursuing this degree abroad. However, the ultimate choice is a deeply personal one. GyanDhan can assist you in your pursuit of studying MS in CS abroad by offering education loans; all you need to do is check your eligibility to achieve your academic aspirations.

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