Pace University's Master's in Computer Science with an applied focus is a professionally oriented graduate programme that develops practical software, systems and data skills for students with a computing background or a related degree. It suits graduates and early-career professionals seeking hands-on experience, project work and industry-relevant training to move into software development, data roles or systems engineering.
What you'll study
The programme emphasises applied computing through a mix of core foundations, elective specialisms and project-based learning. Core topics typically include advanced algorithms, software engineering and design, databases, operating systems and networking. Students can then choose electives or concentrations in areas such as machine learning and data analytics, cybersecurity, cloud and distributed systems, mobile and web development, and human–computer interaction.
- Core modules: advanced algorithms and data structures, software engineering and architecture, database systems, operating systems and networks.
- Applied and elective modules: machine learning and data mining, big data technologies, cybersecurity fundamentals and secure systems, cloud computing and DevOps, mobile/web application development, user experience and interface design.
- Project work: a substantial applied practicum or capstone project working individually or in teams with real-world datasets, client briefs or industry partners.
- Professional preparation: courses and workshops on software project management, system deployment, technical communication and ethics in computing.
Entry requirements
Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, engineering or a closely related discipline. Applicants with strong quantitative and programming experience from other fields may also be considered, but may be asked to complete prerequisite coursework.
- A completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
- Evidence of programming ability and coursework in mathematics or discrete structures; portfolio, project examples or transcripts are useful.
- Academic references and a personal statement outlining objectives and relevant experience.
- For international applicants, proof of English language proficiency is required where applicable.
- Professional experience can strengthen an application; prospective students should check the school’s admissions page for details on any additional requirements or preparatory options.
Career prospects
Graduates move into a broad range of technical and applied roles across industry sectors. The programme’s practical emphasis prepares students for positions that require immediate productive contribution to software and data teams.
- Software engineer, backend/frontend developer or full‑stack developer
- Data analyst, data engineer or machine learning engineer
- Systems engineer, site reliability engineer or cloud solutions developer
- Cybersecurity analyst or secure systems developer
- Product/technical manager, QA and testing engineer, or roles in research and development; graduates also use the degree as preparation for doctoral study.
Why study at Pace University
Pace University’s Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems is located in the New York City region, which provides strong links to technology companies, start-ups and financial institutions for internships and collaborative projects. The school emphasises applied learning, with small classes, faculty who combine academic and industry experience, and accessible lab facilities.
- Close industry connections in the New York metropolitan area that support internships, guest speakers and project partnerships.
- Practical, team-based capstone and practicum options that let students build portfolio-ready applications and systems.
- Flexible delivery options and career services to support part-time students and professionals returning to education.
- Opportunities to engage with multidisciplinary research, entrepreneurship initiatives and campus tech communities.
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