Idaho State University

What you'll study

The Applied Computer Science master’s programme emphasises advanced, application-oriented topics across the computing discipline. Students take a mix of required core courses and electives that build depth in areas such as software engineering, systems and architecture, data management, networking and security, and intelligent systems.

• Core and foundation topics: advanced algorithms, operating systems, software engineering and software architecture, and formal methods for reliable systems.
• Data and intelligent systems: database systems and data management, machine learning and data mining, applied artificial intelligence and big data processing.
• Systems, networks and security: computer networks, distributed systems, embedded and real-time systems, and cybersecurity and privacy technologies.
• Practical project work: a substantial practicum, professional project or capstone course that focuses on applied development, integration or deployment of computing solutions; options commonly include industry-sponsored projects, internships or guided software engineering projects.
• Electives and special topics: students may select electives to pursue areas such as high-performance computing, human–computer interaction, cloud computing, mobile and IoT development, or bioinformatics depending on faculty offerings.

Programme structure typically consists of a defined number of graduate credit hours combining core courses, electives and a culminating project or practicum. There are routes that emphasise coursework and professional practice rather than a research thesis.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, electrical engineering, information systems or another closely related field from an accredited institution. Candidates with strong quantitative and programming backgrounds from other disciplines may also be considered if they have completed prerequisite coursework.

• Academic background: undergraduate coursework in programming, data structures and algorithms, discrete mathematics, and calculus is normally required. Additional bridge courses may be required for applicants who lack specific prerequisites.
• GPA and assessment: admission is competitive and based on the overall academic record; some applicants may be asked to provide statements of purpose, letters of recommendation and transcripts.
• Testing: standardized tests (such as the GRE) may be optional or considered on a case-by-case basis depending on departmental policy; check the department for current guidance.
• English language: international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through accepted testing or qualifications unless exempt by institutional policy.
• Professional experience: relevant work experience or industry certifications can strengthen an application, particularly for the practicum/project-focused track.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Applied Computer Science master’s programme move into a range of professional roles that require advanced technical skills and applied problem-solving. The programme prepares students for industry positions as well as for further graduate study.

• Software developer or software engineer (application, backend, cloud-native systems)
• Data engineer, data analyst or applied machine learning engineer
• Systems engineer, DevOps engineer or site reliability engineer
• Cybersecurity analyst, security engineer or network security specialist
• Embedded systems developer or IoT systems engineer
• IT consultant, technical lead or product-focused engineering roles
• Pathways to doctoral study or research roles for students who later choose a thesis route or research positions

Why study at Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers a practical, student-focused master’s experience with small class sizes that enable close interaction with faculty and hands-on project work. The Department of Computer Science supports applied learning through laboratory facilities, collaborative projects and opportunities for paid graduate assistantships and internships with regional industry partners.

Students benefit from a curriculum designed to align with contemporary industry needs—covering software engineering best practices, modern data technologies and cybersecurity—while studying in a location with a lower cost of living than many metropolitan centres. The programme is suited to students who prioritise applied skill development, professional readiness and the option to tailor coursework to specific technical interests.