Master of Science in Computer Science
The MSCS at Regent American University is a 36-credit, fully online graduate program that combines breadth in foundational computing with depth through six specialized concentrations. Students master programming, algorithms, systems, databases, software engineering, security, and formal methods—then specialize and complete an applied Capstone or research Thesis.
Focus Your Expertise
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
Search algorithms, knowledge representation, supervised and unsupervised learning, neural networks, and responsible AI.
Data Science & Data Engineering
Cloud data engineering, advanced data mining and predictive analytics, and data visualization & storytelling.
Cybersecurity & Cloud Security
Zero Trust cloud architecture, MITRE ATT&CK-informed defense and STRIDE threat modeling, applied cryptography, and ethical pen testing.
Cloud Computing & DevOps
Cloud infrastructure-as-code, containers and orchestration, CI/CD, SRE, and observability.
Emerging Technologies
Blockchain and smart contracts, Internet of Things and edge computing, and an introduction to quantum computing.
Human-Centered Computing & Tech Leadership
HCI and UX for engineers, consulting and executive communication, and product thinking with tech entrepreneurship.
What You'll Study
Where This Takes You
Entrance/Admission Requirements
Programs of four hundred fifty (450) or more clock hours or the credit hour equivalent shall administer a basic skills examination to each student who enrolls, unless the student has provided evidence of a high school graduation diploma, general equivalency diploma, or its equivalent.
To be considered for admission to the MSCS program, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
Educational Background
A bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, engineering, mathematics, or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution (or recognized international equivalent), verified through official transcripts.
GPA Minimum
A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with a lower GPA may be evaluated for conditional admission and may be asked to complete prerequisite coursework.
Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
A current résumé or CV detailing academic background, work history, technical certifications, and relevant skills.
Statement of Purpose
A 500–750 word written statement outlining career objectives, academic interests, and motivation for pursuing graduate study in computer science.
Letters of Recommendation
Two letters from academic instructors, professional supervisors, or research mentors who can attest to readiness for graduate-level work.
English Language Proficiency
For non-native English speakers: TOEFL 60 (paper) / 71 (internet), IELTS 6.5, Duolingo 105, or equivalent. Completion of 30 semester hours with a 'B' average from an English-medium accredited institution may also satisfy this requirement.
Relevant technical work experience, industry certifications, coding portfolios, or graduate-level coursework may also be considered as part of a holistic review. Applicants may request to defer admission for up to one academic year, and up to 50% of program credits may be eligible for transfer from another accredited institution, pending equivalency review.
What Graduates Will Be Able To Do
Design, implement, and evaluate complex computing solutions using advanced algorithms, data structures, programming paradigms, and systems architecture.
Apply advanced theories in AI, machine learning, distributed systems, and analytics to solve real-world problems and optimize performance.
Integrate software engineering principles and agile practices to deliver reliable, scalable, maintainable systems.
Demonstrate proficiency in relational and NoSQL database systems, data warehousing, and large-scale data processing.
Analyze and address security challenges through cybersecurity frameworks, cryptographic protocols, and secure systems design.
Use formal methods—automata theory, formal grammars, Turing machines—to assess computability, correctness, and complexity.
Conduct independent or collaborative research and communicate findings to technical and non-technical audiences.
Make ethically grounded decisions accounting for legal standards, societal impact, and professional responsibilities.
Adapt to emerging technologies and evolving industry needs through continuous learning.
Lead and contribute effectively to interdisciplinary, distributed teams.
Roles Aligned to the MSCS
Software Engineer
Design, develop, test, and maintain software systems using modern development tools.
Technology, financial services, healthcare, defense, enterprise consulting.
Data Scientist / Analyst
Analyze large datasets, build predictive models, and derive actionable insights with ML and visualization.
Finance, healthcare, e-commerce, research, government.
Cybersecurity / InfoSec Analyst
Implement security controls, run risk assessments, and respond to cyber threats across digital infrastructure.
Banking, healthcare, public sector, defense, consulting.
Systems Analyst / Network Architect
Evaluate IT systems and design network and systems infrastructure to meet strategic goals.
Telecom, managed IT services, corporate IT, enterprise software.
Computer & Information Research Scientist
Conduct original computing research and develop new algorithms through applied experimentation.
Research labs, universities, federal agencies, corporate R&D.
IT Manager / CIS Manager
Oversee IT operations, lead technology teams, and align digital strategy with business objectives.
Healthcare admin, education, corporate enterprises, nonprofits, international development.
Demand for Advanced Computing Talent
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment in computer and IT occupations will grow much faster than average from 2023–2033. Cloud adoption, cybersecurity, and AI investment continue to drive demand for software developers, data scientists, and security specialists.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics
100% Online, Rigorously Assessed
Mode of Delivery
Delivered fully online through a secure digital learning platform. Weekly materials, faculty interaction, peer collaboration, and student support services are facilitated remotely—built for working professionals, adult learners, and international students balancing graduate study with their careers.
Assessment Mix
- Class Participation15%
- Group Exercises / Forums15%
- Mid-Term Test or Assignment30%
- Final Test or Course Project / Thesis40%