Indiana University Bloomington

What you'll study

The programme combines core computing foundations with applied technology electives, allowing specialisation in areas such as systems and networking, software engineering, data science and cybersecurity. Study typically covers advanced programming and software design, operating systems and distributed systems, databases and data management, machine learning and analytics, human–computer interaction, and security principles.

• Core modules — advanced algorithms, software engineering practices, systems architecture and database systems.
• Electives / specialisations — cloud and distributed computing, network security, big data analytics, machine learning, user-centred design, and mobile/cloud application development.
• Project or research component — students choose between a practical capstone/project with industry or an academic thesis option supervised by Luddy faculty; internships are commonly integrated into the programme.
• Structure — the degree is delivered through coursework with a research or project pathway available. Programmes are accelerated relative to undergraduate study and emphasise hands-on labs, team projects and applied research opportunities.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an accredited bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, engineering, mathematics or a closely related discipline. Admissions typically consider undergraduate GPA, prior coursework in programming and discrete mathematics, and relevant practical experience.

• Academic background — a demonstrated foundation in programming, data structures, and core computing concepts. Candidates without a CS degree may be admitted with prerequisite or bridging coursework.
• Application materials — official transcripts, a personal statement outlining objectives and experience, two or three letters of recommendation, and a CV/resume.
• English language — proof of English proficiency is required for applicants whose prior education was not in English (TOEFL, IELTS or equivalent accepted).
• Standardised tests — GRE scores may be optional or considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the applicant’s background and programme pathway.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for technical and leadership roles across technology-driven sectors. The programme emphasises practical skills employers seek alongside the theoretical foundations useful for continuing to PhD study.

• Software engineer or developer roles in application and system software
• Data scientist, data engineer or analytics specialist working with large-scale data
• Systems architect, cloud engineer or site reliability engineer managing infrastructure
• Cybersecurity analyst, security engineer or compliance specialist
• IT project manager, technical consultant or product-focused roles combining business and technical knowledge
• Research and academic careers via progression to doctoral study

Why study at Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University’s Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering offers an interdisciplinary environment that blends strong theoretical computing with applied, real-world projects. Students benefit from faculty research in areas such as machine learning, cybersecurity and human–computer interaction, access to research labs and high-performance computing resources, and collaborations across business, health, and engineering units on the Bloomington campus.

The university also provides robust career support, industry partnerships and internship opportunities in the Midwest and beyond, a large and active alumni network, and a campus environment that supports both academic study and extracurricular engagement in technology communities.