Emory University

What you'll study

The programme covers both theory and hands‑on practice across multiple domains of computing. Typical subject areas and modules include:

• Algorithms and theory: algorithm design and analysis, complexity, discrete mathematics.
• Software development and engineering: advanced programming, software architecture, testing and DevOps practices.
• Data management and analytics: database systems, data mining, applied machine learning, big data processing.
• Systems, networks and security: operating systems, computer networks, cybersecurity and information assurance.
• Artificial intelligence and NLP: supervised and unsupervised learning, deep learning, natural language processing.
• Human‑computer interaction and information design: usability, user experience design, information retrieval.
• Electives and special topics: distributed/cloud computing, computational biology, privacy and ethics in AI, visualization.

Students normally take core modules to build a common foundation, choose electives to deepen specialisms, and complete a capstone, practicum or thesis under faculty supervision. Opportunities for collaborative projects with campus research labs, healthcare partners or industry sponsors are available.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, engineering, mathematics or another quantitative discipline; applicants with strong technical preparation from other fields may also be considered. Admissions typically evaluate undergraduate transcripts, a statement of purpose, a résumé or CV, and letters of recommendation. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency where required. Relevant coursework often expected or recommended includes programming, data structures and algorithms, calculus and linear algebra; some applicants augment their background through preparatory coursework or online modules prior to matriculation.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of technical and leadership roles across industry and research. Common career paths include:

• Software engineer, systems developer or platform architect
• Data scientist, machine learning engineer or data engineer
• Cybersecurity analyst, security engineer or information assurance specialist
• User experience researcher/designer and product technologist
• Technical consultant, IT project manager or solutions architect
• Further study as preparation for PhD programmes or research careers

Because Emory is located in a large metropolitan region with strong healthcare, finance and tech sectors, students often find internship and employment connections with hospitals, startups and established firms, as well as opportunities in research labs and interdisciplinary centres.

Why study at Emory University

Emory offers an interdisciplinary environment where computing intersects with health, business and the social sciences. Students benefit from faculty who are active in research, access to collaborative centres and partnerships with nearby institutions, and support services such as career coaching and industry engagement. Cohort sizes and seminar formats give students close faculty interaction, while the institution's urban setting provides practical internship and networking opportunities. The programme emphasises both rigorous fundamentals and applied experience to prepare graduates for immediate impact in industry or for continued research study.