University of Delaware

What you'll study

The programme centres on advanced, application-driven topics in computer science with a balance of theoretical foundations and hands-on development. Core and elective modules typically cover algorithms and data structures at an advanced level, machine learning and data mining, databases and information management, operating systems and distributed systems, computer networks and cloud computing, software engineering and systems design, and cybersecurity and privacy.

• Core topics: advanced algorithms, software engineering, operating systems, and theory as appropriate to the chosen track.
• Applied electives: machine learning, artificial intelligence, data analytics, computer vision, mobile and web application development, high-performance and parallel computing, and network security.
• Project and laboratory work: most students complete significant programming projects or lab-based assignments that apply concepts to realistic problems and datasets.
• Capstone options: the programme commonly offers a choice between a substantial practicum/capstone project with industry or faculty supervision and a research thesis for those considering doctoral study.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: students may take electives or collaborate on projects with related fields such as electrical engineering, data science, robotics or bioinformatics.

The curriculum is delivered through lectures, seminars, team projects and supervised research, emphasising software development practices, experimental evaluation and deployment on contemporary platforms.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering or a closely related quantitative discipline. Candidates from other backgrounds with substantial programming experience and quantitative coursework (for example in mathematics or engineering) may also be considered, though they may need to take prerequisite courses.

• Academic record: a strong undergraduate transcript demonstrating competence in core computing and mathematical subjects.
• Supporting documents: statement of purpose outlining goals and relevant experience, curriculum vitae or résumé, and academic references.
• Standardised tests and English language: some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores depending on the applicant pool; international applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements via recognised tests unless otherwise exempt.
• Prerequisites: undergraduate coursework in programming, data structures, algorithms, discrete mathematics and calculus is normally expected; missing foundations can often be addressed through bridging or undergraduate-level courses before or during the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of technical roles across industry, government and research. The applied emphasis prepares students for hands-on positions that require building, deploying and maintaining software and data systems.

• Software engineer or developer (backend, frontend, full‑stack)
• Data scientist, machine learning engineer or analytics specialist
• Systems engineer, cloud or site‑reliability engineer
• Security analyst, network engineer or cybersecurity specialist
• Research or development roles in industry labs and a route to PhD programmes for those pursuing academic research

Students also benefit from the university’s career services, internship networks and regional industry connections, which help with practicum placements and job searches in the mid‑Atlantic technology corridor and beyond.

Why study at University of Delaware

The University of Delaware combines a research-active computer science department with a practical, application-oriented curriculum. Students have access to faculty-led research, dedicated lab facilities and opportunities for collaboration across engineering, data science and applied domains.

• Applied focus: coursework and capstone projects emphasise real-world problem solving and software development practices.
• Research and labs: opportunities to work with faculty on projects in machine learning, networking, systems and security.
• Industry connections: the university’s location and alumni network support internships and employment opportunities with regional and national employers.
• Flexible pathways: options for thesis or non-thesis tracks allow students to tailor the degree to careers in industry or further academic study.

Together, these elements make the programme a strong choice for students seeking a technically rigorous, career‑oriented master’s in applied computer science.