Georgia Southern University

What you'll study

The programme emphasises applied computing principles and hands‑on solution development. Students take a combination of core graduate courses and elective modules that cover software engineering, advanced algorithms, databases, operating systems, networking, machine learning and applied cybersecurity. Typical subject areas include:

• Advanced Programming and Software Engineering — design patterns, software lifecycle, testing and quality assurance.
• Data Management and Databases — relational and NoSQL design, data modelling and query optimisation.
• Algorithms and Systems — advanced algorithmic techniques, performance analysis and distributed systems.
• Machine Learning and Data Analytics — supervised and unsupervised learning, model evaluation and applied analytics workflows.
• Computer and Network Security — fundamentals of secure systems, intrusion detection and applied cryptography.
• Electives and Special Topics — may include cloud computing, mobile development, human‑computer interaction, high performance computing and domain‑specific applications.

Students can usually choose between a project/non‑thesis option focused on applied work or a research/thesis track. Coursework emphasises team projects, lab work and integration of current tools and platforms used in industry.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a recognised bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, engineering or a closely related discipline. Candidates with degrees in other fields may be considered if they demonstrate appropriate computing background or complete prerequisite coursework. Admissions typically review academic transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation and a CV.

International applicants must provide evidence of English proficiency where applicable. Some applicants may be asked to provide test scores (for example GRE) depending on academic background and the admissions cycle; applicants should consult the programme admissions guidance for current requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of technical roles across industry, government and research. Common career paths include:

• Software Engineer / Developer — designing, building and maintaining applications across domains.
• Data Scientist / Data Analyst — extracting insights from data using statistical and machine learning techniques.
• Systems and Network Engineer — managing and optimising IT infrastructure and cloud services.
• Cybersecurity Analyst / Engineer — protecting systems, responding to incidents and implementing secure architectures.
• Technical Lead or Engineering Manager roles in start‑ups and established organisations, and preparation for doctoral study for those pursuing research careers.

The programme’s applied emphasis and project work help graduates build portfolios and industry‑relevant experience valued by employers in technology hubs and regional businesses.

Why study at Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern combines applied curricula with faculty who are active in areas such as software engineering, data analytics, networking and cybersecurity. The university provides access to computing labs, research projects and opportunities to collaborate with regional industry partners. Small‑to‑medium class sizes mean direct interaction with faculty and practical supervision for projects.

Students benefit from the university’s regional connections in the Savannah and broader Georgia technology ecosystem, career services and internship pipelines. The programme’s flexible delivery options may include on‑campus and distance learning pathways, which can suit working professionals seeking to balance study and employment.

Together, these elements make the Master’s in Applied Computer Science at Georgia Southern a career‑focused option for students aiming to apply advanced computing skills in industry or to continue into research.