It is worth looking at top US universities for an MS in Computer Science, as the career opportunities are great. Computer Science is offered as a two-year or one-year degree at the top universities in the USA. Admission to the program is only open to international students who meet certain eligibility requirements. The tuition costs for this program range from $30,000 to 60,000 per year, while the annual base salary is usually around $111,000, according to Payscale.

Top Computer Science Universities in the USA

This is a list of the top universities in the USA that offer an MS in Computer Science-

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Massachusetts Institute of Technology is recognized for having the best computer science program in the world. MIT’s Computer Science and Electrical Engineering Departments are the largest on campus. Computer Science researchers have contributed to the fields of cybernetics and artificial intelligence. They have also contributed to computer languages, machine learning, robotics, cryptography, and computer languages. The pioneering research it has done in this field is well-known. In 2022, MIT was rated highest in the workplace reputation index.

2. Clark University 

Whether you are an experienced tech professional or seeking a career change, the Clark University MS in Computer Science (MSCS) program is tailored to meet your needs. This program provides a powerful combination of advanced knowledge, practical skills, hands-on experience, and access to a network of industry professionals, all designed to accelerate your career. With degree concentrations in Software Engineering, Human-Computer Interaction, and Data Intelligence, Clark offers flexible learning options, including on-campus, online, and hybrid formats. The program accommodates full-time and part-time study, allowing you to pursue your degree on your own terms and earn an MSCS in as little as one year with full-time enrollment.

3. 
   Stanford University

Computer science is ranked third in the USA because of its proximity to Silicon Valley, California, home to many of the world’s most important high-tech companies. The School of Engineering Computer Science Department was established in 1965.

4. University of California at Berkeley

UCB is one of the top universities in the United States for computer science. It has a computer science and electrical engineering school, just like MIT.

Douglas Engelbart, inventor of the computer mouse, was among the 11 UCB alumni who received the Turing Award (also known as the Nobel Prize in Computing).

5. Princeton University

According to the QS World Rankings 2023, the university is ranked 13th globally for computer science and sixth in the United States. It has a high score in the research citations parameter.

The computer science department has approximately 1,900 students. Jeff Bezos is the founder and CEO of Amazon.

6. University of Washington

The Computer Science and Engineering College at the University of Washington began as an intercollege graduate program in 1967. The university has a large number of undergraduates involved in research. Over the past decade, 33 students have won the Computing Research Association Undergraduate Research Award.

Criteria of Eligibility for Top Universities in the USA to Pursue a MS in Computer Science

You must meet the following criteria to study MS in Computer Science in the USA-

• Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, or a related field. The GPA should be 3 on a 4-point scale.
• The equivalent marks are usually 83-86%, with a grade of B being the same.
• Your GRE score should be between 292 and 328.
• It is also important to submit the results of English language tests such as IELTS and TOEFL.

Admissions Process

Be sure to have all the necessary documents and funds before you begin.

Step 1. Select the universities you wish to apply for and submit your application online.

Step 2. Await a letter of provisional acceptance.

Step 3. Wait for approval and apply for a Student Visa.

Step 4. After visa approval and reservation, check the accommodation arrangements and any other requirements before flying.

Deadlines for MS in Computer Science at Top Universities in the USA

The deadlines for regular decisions and fall intake are the same. Typically, the deadline for decisions at most universities for CS Masters Degree  is the first week of January. Regular decision dates generally fall between February and September, with some exceptions. It’s strongly recommended not to wait until the deadline to apply.

Applying at least a month or two in advance is advisable, as it allows you to better organize your documentation. Additionally, it gives you the opportunity to impress the admissions committee by expressing your enthusiasm for the course and the university in your Statement of Purpose (SOP).

Cost of Studying MS at Top Universities in the USA for MS in CS

One of the biggest deciding factors is the cost of studying for an MS in the United States of America. The cost of a Master’s degree in Computer Science is higher in the United States than in any other country. It is still possible to complete the degree within budgeted expenses. You only need a clear understanding and a well-planned strategy in order to save money on unnecessary expenses. Financial aid is also available to assist students with their economic problems.

The average cost of living is between $10,000 and $2,000 (source). Meals, rent and transportation costs are included in the expenses. Students can work and study simultaneously with a student visa. While school is in session, the student can’t work more than 20 hours per week. They can, however, work full-time during extended vacations or summer sessions (upto 40 hours per week).

Students at some of America’s most competitive colleges can receive financial aid to help them manage their finances. Harvard, Amherst Yale, Princeton and MIT have all pledged to provide adequate financial assistance to students. After graduation, international students have 60 days to enroll in a new program or find a job.