As a data engineer, Bryan MacKenzie understands the need for computer scientists, which is why he’s teaching two core courses for Wilmington University’s new MS in Computer Science program. 

“As we all know, artificial intelligence, data science, machine learning — all that is really front facing right now,” says MacKenzie, a WilmU graduate who works for PPLSI, the parent company of LegalShield and IDShield. This degree program is “at the cutting edge of the technology.” 

Wilmington University’s accredited and affordable master’s in Computer Science gives you the skills to handle complex real-world computing challenges and pursue a career in one of the fastest-growing fields in the United States.  

“It’s so popular now because the demand for data scientists shot up 170% after ChatGPT came out,” says N.V. Raman, the program chair. 

Choose From Two Concentrations: Data Science and Software Engineering 

Launching in fall 2024, the 30-credit, STEM-designated MS in Computer Science program offers two specialized concentrations: Data Science and Software Engineering. With this master’s degree, you’ll develop a critical understanding of programming languages, algorithms, data structures, system requirements and ethics while honing your communication and problem-solving skills.  

“By encouraging a culture of curiosity, collaboration and ethical responsibility, the MS in Computer Science program prepares students to become visionary leaders capable of driving impactful change in the digital world,” Professor Raman says.  

Gain the expertise you need to become a data engineer, DevOps engineer, information systems manager, machine learning engineer, software engineer and more.  

“There’s so much that you can get out of this degree,” says Professor MacKenzie, the instructor for Python Programming and Intro to Data Science. “Everything that you’re going to take will have an impact on where you can go in your career.” 

Nontechnical Track: Earn a Master’s in Computer Science Without a Computer Science Undergraduate Degree 

Are you interested in a tech career but lack an undergraduate degree in the field? The MS in Computer Science program provides a perfect opportunity to reskill. 

“People with a technical degree — like a degree in computer science or any technology, cybersecurity, networking — they can be admitted directly without any prerequisites,” says Professor Raman. “But we also provide an opportunity for nontechnical people because there are a lot of them out there who want to get into the IT field, especially data science.” 

For the nontechnical track, you must complete four prerequisites: Computer Science Fundamentals, Object-Oriented Programming, Java Programming I and Database Foundations.  

Dual-Credit ADVANTAGE™ Can Save You Time and Tuition  

Students in WilmU’s BS in Computer Science program can make significant headway on their master’s degree through the accelerated BS to MS in Computer Science pathway, incorporating five graduate-level courses into the undergraduate Computer Science program. It’s a wonderful opportunity to earn 15 master’s-level credits at the undergraduate tuition rate — a savings of more than $1,700 based on current costs. 

Whichever path you choose, online and hybrid course formats allow you to earn an education that fits your busy schedule. 

As a WilmU graduate, “I know firsthand the flexibility of being able to do courses here while working full time,” says Professor MacKenzie, who looks forward to teaching the first class of MS in Computer Science students. “We’ve really gone through and made sure we’re using the different technologies that are important when students get out into the real world.”