About Master’s Program,
The CS MS is a very small, highly selective, four-semester program for students who wish to deepen their knowledge of computer science through advanced coursework, research, writing, and teaching. The program is ideal for self-motivated students who have expository skills, enjoy the research environment, and like working with undergraduates in introductory courses. Students in the program serve as teaching assistants and receive full tuition plus a stipend.
Master’s Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
A Bachelor’s degree in CS is required, with a strong preference to Cornell Undergraduates. Applicants must have a proven record of excellence as an undergraduate teaching assistant in one or more computer science courses. Experience as an undergraduate researcher is highly recommended. In addition, students should have taken the following Cornell courses (or equivalent):
- CS 2110 – Object-Oriented Programming
- CS 3110 – Functional Programming
- CS 2800 – Discrete Structures (mathematical foundations of computer science)
- CS 3410 – Computer System Organization
If you are not a Cornell undergraduate, please outline your background in the course equivalents in your statement of purpose.
Master’s Funding Coverage,
Students who are admitted into the program serve as full time teaching assistants (TA’s) during each of the four semesters. This involves a fifteen-hour commitment to TA duties each week. In exchange, the student receives full tuition, a stipend to cover basic living expenses, and health insurance. Summer instructorships, TA-ships, and research assistantships are available but are not guaranteed. Serving as a TA is an integral part of the program. To remain in good standing in the program, students have to be among the top TAs in their assigned courses. TA performance is evaluated at the end of each semester.
If you have questions regarding the MS in CS, please first check our FAQ. If you do not find the information you are looking for, feel free to send e-mail to the general information e-mail address cs-ms@cornell.edu
Application Requirement,
January 15 we will begin reviewing applications for a Fall Semester start. Once all positions have been filled, we will stop considering new applications. An application consists of (a) transcripts of all college-level work, (b) three letters of recommendation including at least one that addresses expository skills and the ability to work in a classroom setting, and (c) an essay that explains how the degree program and the anticipated thesis area resonates with your career plans. GRE scores are not required. Submitted GRE scores are masked and we will not review them with application materials.
Non-native English speakers are required to take the TOEFL or IELTS. TOEFL Scores on the Writing, Listening, and Reading components must be 24 or higher and 28 or higher for the Speaking component. IELTS scores must be 7.0 or higher.
Application Deadline,
Jan 15, 2025
Application Fee,
There is a $105 non-refundable application fee that must be submitted electronically with your application. The fee may be waived in cases of financial hardship or for qualified participants of certain special programs.
