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Why you should study master’s in Computer Science in USA + Funding opportunities 

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Mercy Awofiranye
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Computer Science deals with the study of computation, information and automation. It spans vast theoretical fields that include algorithms, theory of computation and information theory. It also cuts across applied disciplines like the design and implementation of hardware and software. Although computer science is generally seen as an academic discipline, it is also closely related to computer programming. Computer programming on the other hand involves the process of writing instructions that will be carried out by the computer to enable it to carry out certain tasks. These instructions are often called code and are written in programming languages. 

The theory of computation entails abstract models of computation and general problems that can be solved using them. Additionally, algorithms and data structures are also vital to computer science. 

Studying computer science in the United States is advantageous in many ways. In recent times, there has been an increase in the number of international students who travel to the U.S. to study. The QS world ranking lists quite several universities situated in the country as part of the best universities in the world. Moreover, according to Statista, about 914,095 international students were studying in the U.S. in the 2021/2022 session and this is quite an improvement from the last session which recorded a total of 914,095 students.  

Studying MS in Computer Science in the US

MS in Computer science is regarded as a STEM course in the US. The course modules consist of various computer-related subjects like basic programming laboratory, programming languages, theory of computation, and design and analysis of algorithms. Bagging a master’s degree in computer science will last for about 2 years. The tuition fee is between 40,000 USD to 60,000 USD although the prices are subject to change as each university’s tuition differs. Furthermore, the fact that the United States houses some of the world’s largest tech companies, provides students with the opportunities to get internship opportunities and job offers in this field at different establishments that cut across IT, finance, engineering, management and so on. The course will impact you with various skills like:

  • Understanding of operating systems
  • Working with spreadsheets and presentations
  • Knowledge of hardware
  • Proficiency in typing etc. 

Advantages of Studying MS in Computer Science in the US. 

The world is fast embracing technology and the United States is part of the frontiers of this movement. The advent of technology has birthed many businesses. Even old establishments now have to embrace technology in their daily activities so as not to become obsolete or run out of business. The resultant effect of this shift is that there is an increase in the demand for professionals in the labour market. Some of the reasons you should consider obtaining a Master’s degree in computer science in the United States include:
1. Access to world-class education

The US houses some of the best universities in the world. According to the QS world ranking, out of the top 50 universities for computer sciences courses, the US houses 15 of these universities. This means that students who study here will gain in-depth knowledge and skills from top professionals in the industry. Also, the presence of vast companies makes it easy for students to get opportunities from such brands. Moreover, getting a degree from the US would look good on your CV. 

2. Opportunity to specialize

Universities in the United States offer various areas of specialization in the computer science discipline. This is advantageous to international students as they get to select their specific area of study. Some of the areas of specialization include: 

  • Cloud Computing
  • Robotics
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Computing Theory
  • Programming
  • Cyber Security

3. Career Opportunity

Being the hub for many tech-based companies, international students who study computer science in the U.S. are provided with both internship and job opportunities and this will add to the bank of knowledge they have gained within the four walls of the classroom, According to the Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS), the projected growth rate for computer science jobs is 15% between 2021-2031. 

The eligibility requirement to study MS in Computer Science in the US. 

To study computer science at a master’s level abroad, students must meet the requirements stated below. Additionally, it is important to note that the requirements stated below will vary according to the individual university criteria. 

  • Bachelor’s Degree: It is expected that students should have an excellent GPA in Computer or IT. The minimum score is 3.0-4.0 on the 4.0 grading scale. However, it might vary according to the individual university criteria. 
  • Standardized Tests: like GRE is also an important requirement needed to gain admission to a master’s program in the US. The minimum requirement is 300 but the score varies according to the university’s rules. 
  • English Proficiency Test: Since America is an English-speaking nation and business analytics is an English-taught score, students will all need to prove their English proficiency by taking exams like IELTS, TOEFL and PTE. The minimum expected score is 6 or it’s equivalent in the other tests. 

Important documents needed to study MS in Computer Science in the US. 

In addition to the eligibility requirements, applicants should ensure that the following documents are made saving to make the application easier. These documents include: 

  • Complete Admission Form
  • Payment Receipt of the admission form
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Certificate of Work Experience
  • Proof of funds
  • Passport photographs
  • Scores of standardized exams to study in the USA, like TOEFL, IELTS, PTE etc.
  • Degree Certificates
  • Copy of Passport
  • Letter of recommendation

Best University for Master’s in Computer Science in the U.S. 

The United States currently has over 200 universities that offer a master’s degree in business analytics for international students. Additionally, some of these schools also offer scholarship opportunities for students who might be interested. Some of the top universities for Ms in business analytics are: 

UniversityQS World RankingOverall score
Massachusetts Institute of Technology194.5
Carnegie Mellon University293.5
Stanford University 393
University of California, Berkeley (UCB)489.6
Harvard University888.2
Princeton University1383.7
University of Washington1482.9
Cornell University1781.9
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)1880.9
Columbia University2379.6
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign2579.1
New York University (NYU)2679
Georgia Institute of Technology2877.6
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)3676

Job opportunities available in Computer Science

There are many opportunities available for graduates of MS in Computer science in the United States. The US had so many Multinational tech-based companies that are seeking to hire business analysts from top universities including Google, Uber, Walmart, Apple, PayPal and others. Some excellent career options available to international students who studied MS in Computer science in the US include: 

Job ProfileThe average annual salary in USD 
Android Developer$98,296
Artificial Intelligence Specialist$105,164
Lead Developer$149,286 
Blockchain Developer$101,907
Ethical Hacker$112,759 
C++ Developer$114,978
ERP Project Manager$122,644
Information Security Manager$172,245
Computer Network Architect$137,401

Read also: Best International Student Loans For African Students 2023 (Ultimate Guide)

Funding Opportunities are available to aid in studying MS in Business analytics in the US. 

The tuition fee and the cost of living in the U.S. can seem expensive especially when compared to other universities so funding can be a problem. Generally, funding opportunities available to aid studying abroad for international students include grants, scholarships, student loan options etc. Below is a list of available options:

Scholarship Options

  1. Domos scholarship program
  2. EDGE awards scholarships
  3. Mark Duda Scholarship Fund
  4. Dave Florence Fund
  5. Don Kuhn Memorial Fund

Also read: 9 Scholarships For IT Students Abroad 2024

Student loan options

  1. MPower Finance
  2. Prodigy Finance
  3. Ascent Funding
  4. Citizens Financial Group Inc.
  5. Quorum

Also read: Top International Student Loans For African Students

Get started with us today

Seeking to start a career in business analytics or any course in the STEM field? Enrolling in the top universities in the world can increase your chances with employers. Unfortunately, it can be quite expensive to study abroad due to the current economic crisis. But this shouldn’t limit you as there are other options you can explore to enhance your career. 

MPower Finance and Prodigy Finance are some of the best student loan providers for international students. They also do not require any cosigner or collateral before application. At EdXtra Associates, we can help you with your loan application process. We also provide educational consultancy services for international students to help make your journey easier and faster. You can reach out to us, as we’ll love to guide you through this journey. 

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Author

  • Mercy Awofiranye is a creative writer with over five years of experience. Currently, she specializes in creating helpful content for students in the education space. When she's not writing, she enjoys reading, cooking, and learning new things.

This post was last modified on September 2, 2024 7:51 pm

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