Eastern Washington University

What you'll study

The programme combines core graduate-level computing courses with elective options and a culminating research or project experience. Typical core topics include advanced algorithms, operating systems and distributed systems, database design and management, software engineering and research methods. Electives allow specialisation in areas such as machine learning and data analytics, cybersecurity, computer networks, human–computer interaction, cloud computing and mobile application development.

Students usually choose between a thesis option, emphasising original research supervised by faculty, and a non-thesis option that centres on a practicum or capstone project working with real-world problems. Coursework emphasises hands-on labs, programming assignments, system design, performance evaluation and written technical communication.

• Advanced Algorithms and Complexity
• Database Systems and Information Modelling
• Software Engineering and Project Management
• Operating Systems, Networks and Distributed Computing
• Machine Learning and Data Mining (elective)
• Information Security and Privacy (elective)
• Research Methods and Graduate Seminar
• Capstone Project or Thesis

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, preferably in computer science, information systems, engineering, mathematics or a closely related field. A competitive undergraduate academic record is required; specific programmes may state a minimum GPA threshold. Applicants with degrees in other disciplines may be admitted conditionally provided they complete prerequisite coursework in programming, discrete mathematics and data structures.

Typical application materials include official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals, and letters of recommendation. Some applicants may be asked to supply a résumé/CV and examples of technical work or a portfolio. Standardised test requirements (such as the GRE) are determined by the department and may be optional in many cases. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of technical and leadership roles across industry, government and research. Common job titles include software engineer, systems architect, data scientist/analyst, database administrator, cybersecurity analyst, network engineer and IT project manager. The programme also prepares students for continued study at the doctoral level or for roles that require strong research and development capabilities.

Through project work and internships, students build practical experience and professional networks that support entry into regional technology firms, national employers, start-ups and public-sector organisations. Alumni skills in software development, data management and systems design are in demand across sectors such as healthcare, finance, manufacturing and education.

Why study at Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University offers a supportive, student-centred environment with small class sizes that enable close interaction with faculty. The department emphasises applied learning: students benefit from hands-on laboratories, access to modern computing resources and opportunities to work on practicum projects with local industry partners.

EWU’s location near a growing regional technology and healthcare community provides internship and employment connections, while the programme’s balance of theoretical foundations and practical application prepares graduates for immediate professional contribution or further research. Faculty mentorship and flexible degree tracks (thesis or project) allow students to tailor the programme to their career objectives.