Computer Science, M.S.

Computer Science is a field with a continuously expanding need for advanced knowledge and expertise. A master of science (MS) degree in Computer Science from Fontbonne University will give you the theoretical and practical tools to succeed and advance in three subfields of computer science: software engineering, cybersecurity and data science.

A student in the MS in Computer Science degree program may begin course work in fall or spring. There is no summer program start, however, summer courses will be offered.

The application deadline for fall is July 1; for spring is November 1.

Admission

For the MS degree in Computer Science, these are the admission requirements:

For detailed information on university admission policies, please refer to Admission Policies  information.

1. A current resume with three references OR three letters of recommendation, one of which is from a supervisor or recent academic advisor, are required. If this is not possible please contact the department chair.
2. Official transcripts from all universities attended
   1. Applicants must have completed a baccalaureate degree before beginning the master’s program. In addition, the following knowledge must be demonstrated prior to starting the MS degree.
      1. Coding experience equivalent to one full year of course work or job-related experience.
      2. Foundational knowledge of statistics.
      3. Knowledge of databases, networks and operating systems.
3. Entrance examinations
   1. A minimum GRE score of 290 is required, with 150 quantitative and 140 verbal. The GRE test can be waived if any one of the following conditions is satisfied.
      1. BS from ABET accredited program
      2. BS a technology or engineering field with a GPA of 3.5/4.0
      3. MS in related field
      4. 2 years of field experience in IT related area
4. Grade Point Average
   1. 3.0/4.0 full acceptance as long as other criteria are met
   2. 2.75/4.0 conditional acceptance. Must maintain 3.0 GPA for first 6 hours of course work, with no grade below B-.
5. Self-Statement
   1. In 500 - 600 words, tell us your goals and reason(s) for pursuing graduate study in computer science.
6. In addition, the following applies to international students.
   1. GPA 3.0/4.0 (There is no “conditional” admission for international students based on their academic GPA.)
   2. If a student submits foreign university transcripts that we cannot evaluate, then the student must submit a WES evaluation of his/her transcripts. (WES is World Education Services, a professional organization that will help with foreign transcript evaluation.)
   3. Language requirement: 70 internet-based TOEFL (IBT)/ 6.0 IELTS/ 280 Fontbonne University Compass exam.
   4. Copy of passport
   5. Completed international student application

Application

To schedule an appointment or to learn more about our MS degrees you may call 314-889-1400 or email FBYOU@fontbonne.edu. In addition, you may contact the department chairperson.

Accelerated Master’s Program

Students applying to an Accelerated Path Master’s Program must:

• Be a currently enrolled Fontbonne University student
• Have completed at least 60 credit hours (including CIS 210 , CIS 330 , MTH 120 and MTH 150  with a grade of B or higher in each of these four courses.)
• Have at least one full semester an undergraduate remaining
• Possess a minimum Fontbonne cumulative GPA of 3.25

Admission Requirements

Students applying for admission to a master’s program through the Accelerated Option submit an Accelerated Master’s Program Application, which must be approved by the graduate program director and/or department chair. Application can be made as early as the first semester of the junior year, but typically in the third semester prior to completion of the undergraduate degree and with at least one full semester remaining at the time of application. Students must have completed at least 12 credit hours in the undergraduate major by the time they are admitted into an Accelerated Path. Undergraduate students admitted to a master’s program through an Accelerated Path must maintain

• a cumulative GPA of 3.25 and
• a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher in all of their CIS courses.

Degree and Tuition Policies

Once admitted to a master’s program through the Accelerated Path, students may take up to a maximum of 12 credit hours of graduate coursework (as listed below the major requirements) and have those hours count toward both the bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Students will be charged at the undergraduate rate and retain eligibility for undergraduate scholarships. For each semester in which they take courses for both undergraduate and graduate credit, students must complete a “mixed credit” registration form that is approved by the advisor. Students taking courses for graduate credit must adhere to all relevant graduate policies.

Students admitted to an Accelerated Path Master’s Program must meet all graduate program admission requirements at the time they complete the baccalaureate degree and must meet all degree completion requirements of the graduate program.