grad

What graduate programs are offered?

We have three Master of Science (MS) programs and one Doctor of Philosphy (PhD) program:

• MS in Computer Science [catalog] [apply]
  This is our comprehensive MS program which provides a powerful foundation in the computer science discipline and allows you to specialize with advanced courses.

• MS in Cybersecurity Science [catalog] [apply]
  This is a degree based in the computer science discipline with a specific focus on cybersecurity.

• MS in Artificial Intelligence [catalog] [apply]
  Our program in Artificial Intelligence is offered jointly by UTSA’s Departments of Computer Science; Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE); and Statistics. It’s formally administered by our campus’s University College. You have the opportunity to take courses in all three departments.

• PhD in Computer Science [catalog] [apply]
  This is the research-based degree in computer science in which you conduct foundational and advanced coursework and carry out an original research dissertation supervised by our faculty members.

What is the difference between an MS degree and the PhD degree?

Broadly, an MS program prepares you for careers in industry while the PhD program prepares you for a research career, including faculty careers.

What prior experience is required to be successful?

Generally, you should have technical background in a science or engineering field (i.e., an undergraduate degree). It’s OK if you don’t have computer science background specifically; prior programming experience is helpful in this case.

For our MS programs, we may stipulate up to two required “bridge courses” to give you necessary background in the computing field. Please note that these courses do not count towards the MS degree itself.

Please see specific application requirements at our “apply” links above.

What financial support is available for MS students?

Please see the Computer Science Department Scholarships page and scroll down to the section “Additional Support for Graduate Students.”

What financial support is available for PhD students?

All full-time, admitted PhD students are welcomed with an appointment as either a Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) or Graduate Research Assistant (GRA). This is comprehensive support that comes with a tuition waiver, stipend, and health insurance. The stipend is a year-round award starting at $2,000 per month.

Please see more information at the “Funding Opportunities” tab at the PhD “apply” link above.

What kind of research can I do?

Please see the CS Department’s research areas web page, which includes a list of faculty members in each area.

During your first year as a doctoral student, you will engage in a structured process for you to find your PhD advisor.

Based on your existing interests, you are welcome to reach out to faculty during your application process and after acceptance to the program.

Master’s students have the option of participating in research. The MS degree programs offer Project (one-semester) and Thesis (two-semester) research options.

Where is the official catalog information about the graduate programs in Computer Science?

Please see the “catalog” links next to each of the programs listed above.

How do I apply?

Please see the “apply” links next to each of the programs listed above.

Where is the main UTSA Computer Science Department web site?

It’s here: https://sciences.utsa.edu/computer-science/.

I have more questions!

You are welcome to be in touch with me—Dr. Fred Martin, professor and chair, fred.martin@utsa.edu.