The reliance on digital information in the enterprise has increased the criticality of the computing infrastructure. The news of successful attacks on the infrastructure has increased the awareness security. As a result, there is an growing need to provide the knowledge for careers in security and information assurance. Our specialization includes courses that focus on Cyber Security and it guides you through courses in databases, networks, and systems that have been designed to treat the security concerns in each of these fundamental areas of computing. The result is knowledge to understand and defend against attacks in each of the fundamental areas of the infrastructure. This option requires practical experience gained through a practicum.

The goal of our academic activities in Information Assurance(IA) and Cyber Defense (CD) is to promote knowledge, research and careers in securing the nation's critical infrastructure. Our research and community outreach promote understanding the needs, threats, and defensive actions that can be used to protect technical infrastructure. Our degree specialization responds to the regional and national need to prepare a growing number of IA/CD professionals to reduce vulnerabilities in the nation’s infrastructure. At the third annual State of Wisconsin Cyber security Summit on the Marquette campus, there was a focus on power grids, information databases, communications networks, and utilities, but the underlying theme was expanding knowledge. Our specialization in Information Assurance and Cyber Defense is designed to establish the knowledge about cyber security planning and management and cyber issues and defenses for networks, databases, and computing infrastructure. The required courses for this specialization reflect this broad technical perspective. While studying theory and performing classroom exercises serve to provide foundational knowledge, practical experience reinforces understanding. Our program requires students to demonstrate their understanding through a practical, professional experience. Here are the requirements for this specialization:

Specialization Coursework:

• COSC 5300 Network Design and Security
• COSC 5360 Software and System Security
• COSC 6280 Advanced Computer Security
• COSC 6550 Introduction to Cybersecurity
• COSC 6560 Principles of Service Management and System Administration
• COSC 6964 Practicum for Research and Development in Computing or COSC 6998 Professional Project in Computer Science or COSC 6965 Curriculum Integrated Practicum

Research Interests

• Network protocol design and analysis
• Network topology modeling
• Security of the Internet routing protocols
• Security of physical-cyber systems
• Security, privacy and trust for mobile and ubiquitous computing
• Ethics and Privacy
• Secure storage

Resources

• Cyber Security Awareness and Cyber Defense Website

This specialization features course work related to trends in artificial intelligence and data analysis techniques used for business applications. Students choosing the AI and Analytics(AIA) specialization must complete the following courses for a total of 15 credit hours.

Specialization Coursework:

• COSC 5600 Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence
• COSC 5500 Visual Analytics
• COSC 6060 Distributed and Cloud Computing
• COSC 6380 Big Data Systems
• COSC 6520 Data Analytics

This specialization is a workforce development initiative designed to transition students from an underemployment status into STEM careers, specifically in computer and information science. It caters to students without prior knowledge in programming, data structures, and algorithms, providing a 7-credit foundations course necessary for the MS in Computer and Information Science program. After the foundations course, students must complete 33 additional credits and meet graduation requirements to earn the degree.
 
Marquette University offers a two-year graduate program in IT that equips students with skills for the digital economy, preparing them for high-paying jobs in a rapidly growing field. Overall employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032, with about 377,500 openings projected each year due to growth and worker replacement needs. The median annual wage for these occupations was $104,420 in May 2023, significantly higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $48,060.*
 
The program focuses on essential areas such as cloud computing, big data, and mobile computing, ensuring students can smoothly transition from a liberal arts or science background to a computing career.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Career Opportunities:

• Application Developer/Programmer
• Software Engineer
• Cyber Security Specialist
• Systems Analyst
• Enterprise/Solutions Architect
• Big Data Analytics
• Business Intelligence Engineer

Specialization Coursework:

• COSC 6500 Foundations of Computing (7 credit hours)

Course Description - For individuals considering a career change into computing, our Foundations of Computing course covers essential topics for success in the MS in Computer and Information Science program. However, this course also serves as an introduction to computing for anyone interested in understanding the basics without committing to a full computer science curriculum.

The Foundations of Computing course is designed as an intense boot camp, running full workdays throughout the summer term. The course includes an introduction to, and experience with, all of the following:

• using higher-level programming languages (Python and Java)
• data structures, algorithms and alternatives
• algorithm analysis and computational complexity
• constructing graphical user interfaces
• data base connections
• parallel computing
• interfaces to the World Wide Web (WWW)
• software development methodology
• testing code
• basic system administration
• computer networking
• operating system capabilities and configuration
• computing abstraction mechanisms
• algorithmic thinking

The mission of the program is to prepare the IT leaders of tomorrow. We produce critical thinkers who have a solid understanding of fundamental concepts and theory enabling them to continually expand and apply their foundational knowledge to ever-changing technologies and practices. By offering a wide range of courses, flexible structure, personalized attention, and a choice of career focus, we provide opportunities to individuals with vastly differing backgrounds and goals.

The MS in Computer and Information Science program is ranked #20 of the 2023 Best Online Programs by US News & World Report. The distance learning options we offer enable students outside the metropolitan area to earn their MS degree from Marquette. For students in the area, distance learning gives you the flexibility to continue working on your degree during out of town assignments or after a relocation.

Applicants to the Computer and Information Science program are expected to have:

• An undergraduate bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• Two semesters of computer course work including programming and data structures, or equivalent experience.
• For international applicants only, a TOEFL score (minimum 80 on the Internet-based version) or other acceptable proof of English proficiency.
• Evidence of expected quality academic performance including undergraduate GPA and/or relevant work experience. (The GRE is optional, but not required for admission into the Computer and Information Science program. However, it is required if you are applying for financial aid in the application form.)

Students can be admitted to this program without the course prerequisites, but they may be required either to take undergraduate courses or perform self-study to acquire the necessary background skills. Applicants without coursework reported on their transcripts should take steps to explain alternative experiences when applying.

• Admission deadlines
  Decisions by the department are made when applications are complete. The Graduate School processes recommendations made by the department according to deadlines that they maintain and publish. Their deadlines for international students are extended to allow time for visa processing. For specific deadlines, look for Application Deadline in the description of the Computer and Information Science program hosted by the Graduate School.
• Application instructions
  You apply to the Master of Science in Computer and Information Science program by following the procedures for application to the Marquette University Graduate School. As part of the online application process you will be asked to upload a resume/CV and documents describing career goals, professional and community activities, and a statement of purpose. In preparing these documents be sure to include information about relevant academic and work history as well as your computer background, especially if other materials might not make that clear. You can use the Career Goals section to describe any particular interests. We use the documentation that you supply as an indication of your suitability for the program and your communication skills. If you are admitted, the information about your experience and goals will help us assign an appropriate advisor. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the Computer and Information Science program's director or the Graduate School office.
• Transferring from EECE or Computational Sciences
  You can transfer from EECE or Computational Sciences to the Master of Science in Computer and Information Science program by completing the online application process of the Marquette University Graduate School. We expect that most current EECE or Computational Sciences students who apply to transfer to this program will be accepted. You should consider carefully with your advisor whether you might be better served by remaining in the current program. Students transferring from EECE or computational sciences will have the 12-credit maximum limit waived, and will be allowed to transfer any number of credits from their previous degree.

Marquette’s professional master’s degree program in Computer and Information Science provides an Integrated Practicum curriculum path. Through this option, financial assistance is available in the form of part-time employment to students with employable IT skills. This program is available to all students, including international students on an F-1 visa.

This curriculum path allows students to build practical knowledge through significant job assignments while building fundamental knowledge through academics. In this unique dual-path option, students begin their professional careers while continuing to enrich their fundamental knowledge of IT and computer and information science.

We introduce students to potential participating employers. Working with their employers and academic advisers, students enroll in academic courses relevant to the skills and knowledge required to excel in their work assignments.

Why should you apply for this option?

The following are frequent questions that pertain to the M.S. in Computer and Information Science Program

• What is the Integrated Practicum and who is eligible?
  The Integrated Practicum is intended for students who want to continue their studies of computer science, computing, or software engineering on a full-time basis but wish to simultaneously start a career and receive financial support for graduate school study. Students who are awarded this opportunity will be introduced to employers seeking qualified workers. The employers will have the opportunity to hire students who are learning about the latest in technology. Because this option integrates graduate coursework with work assignments, the student experiences the practical aspects of implementing technology. Classroom projects and assignments are certainly beneficial, but practical application provides greater benefits. The students have the benefit of enhanced learning and completing their MS degree in less than two years. They will gain valuable work experience and receive wages to offset graduate school expenses. A more detailed explanation can be found in the Marquette Graduate School Bulletin. To be eligible, the student must declare the intention to follow this curriculum path from the first semester in the MS in Computer and Information Science program. The students must maintain part time employment with a participating employer throughout their studies. This option qualifies as Curricular Practical Training. International students with an F-1 visa are eligible for the integrated work assignments starting in their first semester.
• What are specializations?
  Marquette University provides specializations in master's degree programs to designate an emphasis on a specific field within the scope of a discipline. The MS in Computer and Information Science program does not require a specialization but it offers them. The completion of the required courses in the specialization carries a designation on the diploma and transcript indicating pursuit of study in a specific area see the "Specializations" section on this page.
• Why pursue the M.S. in Computer and Information Science?
  The M.S. in Computer and Information Science assists students in adding depth and breadth of computer and information science of computing technology and technology management to grow careers. The program is based on a strategy that includes:
  • A strong academic program with flexibility for students of varying backgrounds and interests
  • An integrated approach that combines the study of technology and technology management
  • Recognition that deep knowledge and soft skills are more important than "geek speak"
  • The development of skills for technology evaluation and application
  • A curriculum that is based upon the needs of the student and confirmed by the support of enterprise leaders
• Who is it for?
  This degree program is aimed at two groups: the prospective career-changing student and the practicing professional who senses the need for more depth and breadth of knowledge to enhance career growth. The program can be taken on a full-time or part-time basis. A non-degree option is available for professionals looking to strengthen their knowledge by taking selective classes offered by any of the cooperating departments.
• What are your classes like?
  Students may select computer science, computer engineering, information technology, and technology management courses offered by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics (MSSC), the Department of Computer Science (COSC), the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (EECE), and the Graduate School of Management, Information Technology (INTE) courses. Courses in other schools and departments may be added to a program when they make sense for the student. For a complete listing of pre-approved classes go to the "Approved Courses" tab of this drop-down menu. Our classes not only teach you how to use the concepts of computer science to identify strategic information technology that delivers business success but they also teach you how to advocate, develop, and deliver the technology. "One of our measures of quality of instruction is what you are able to accomplish in your work perhaps several years after completing our program."  --George Corliss, faculty and founding Director
• What are the online class options?
  With the addition of Distance Learning capabilities, the MS degree can be obtained through online participation. We are committed to the online format for several reasons:
  • As a practicing professional, you will be expected to be able to read, comprehend, analyze and apply information found online about technology, products and practices. The experience gained in online classes helps prepare you for the self-study that you will be required to do.
  • We use web conferencing technology that is widely used in professional settings to support remotely distributed work groups. Experience with this technology builds professional communication skills.
  • Online classes provide increased flexibility particularly for many of our students who are employed in full-time jobs while taking classes.

The Department of Computer Science offers a majority of the MS in Computer and Information Science classes through synchronous, distance learning. By inserting two-way audio and video capabilities into the classroom and using web-based conferencing technology we have extended the classroom across the internet. Whether studying from home, on vacation, or at a remote work site, students can attend classes at the prescribed times for the class. Any of the popular browsers allow students to look into, hear, and be virtually present in the class. In addition, classroom sessions are typically recorded and made available to students for review or offline viewing. Students typically use their Internet connected computer with audio capability to take advantage of this offering. However, most smart phones can provide access to the virtual classroom as well.

We offer some classes and an online seminar as asynchronous online offerings. In these classes students access materials and complete assignments at a pace defined by the instructor. Materials are made available and exchanged between the instructor and the student through our learning support platform, Desire 2 Learn. This facility allows students to submit assignments and participate in threaded discussions that are facilitated by the instructor. Class materials typically consist of textbooks, recorded video, and documents. Other techniques such as web conferences may be used in these classes to provide contact with other students and the instructor. Classes span the term in which they are offered. Should a class require access to computing resources on campus, remote access is always available.

• What are the differences between the thesis (Plan A) and the non-thesis (Plan B) options?
  Most students selection the non-thesis (Plan B) option, which requires 33 credit hours of coursework (students enrolled in the computing career change opportunity specialization take one additional 7-credit course for a total of 40 credit hours). The Graduate Bulletin details the credit requirements.
  
  The thesis option (Plan A) also requires 33 credit hours, with the specific inclusion of 6 credit house for completion of the master's thesis (COSC 6999 Master's Thesis). The thesis process generally begins with student interest in a problem. This leads to collaboration with a thesis advisor and a more formal identification of a problem. Certain documents must be prepared and sent to the Graduate School for approval to enter the thesis option.
  
  There must be a compelling reason why the problem under study needs a solution or needs a better solution. The problem must be one faced by multiple organizations and the findings of the research must be widely applicable. Because this is a professional degree program, the thesis is not limited to theoretical issues. It may address a practical problem. Because of the breadth of the program, the problem may arise from any of the perspectives of computer science, computer engineering, software engineering, information technology or information systems. Research efforts vary from proposing and analyzing algorithms (the computer science perspective) to increasing the understanding of the role of information in business operations (the information systems perspective).
  
  The six thesis credits are awarded for the preparation and delivery of the thesis document and the oral defense of the research and findings.
  
  The practicum is not required in the coursework option; it is available to the student approaching graduation. It consists of applying knowledge gained in the course of study to a challenging assignment and reporting the results. The practicum focuses on the delivery of a practical solution to a problem faced by an organization engaged in applying computing. The problem addressed and the solution delivered can be specific to the organization sponsoring the practicum It is typically a work assignment resulting from either full-time employment or an internship. The practicum requires a faculty sponsor.
• How do you asses the program?
  We assess our program based on the following program learning outcomes. Upon completion of the program students will be able to:
  • Appraise relationships among a variety of computing practices and technologies to create integrated solutions to computing problems.
  • Communicate computing problems and suggested solutions to other professionals and with business clients.
  • Formulate and defend realistic and detailed designs for solutions of problems of enterprise scope.
  • Evaluate and apply common standards for technology and technology management.

• What are the prerequisites?
  Many of our courses assume that you can write programs and are comfortable with common data structure concepts. While a professional position in computer and information science may not require you to write programs, programming is one of the experiences expected of computer and information science professionals. We require prior course work or the equivalent training or experience. We expect you to have experience programming in some modern language. Java, C++, C, Pascal, Python, Lisp, Scheme... are all reasonable alternatives. We expect you to be able to work with data structures such as stacks, queues, lists, graphs, trees, and hash tables. These are the fundamental building blocks of many computer algorithms. We are happy to consider appropriate experience in lieu of actual coursework. Some students are able to meet the requirements through self-study.If you do not have the prerequisite knowledge, we offer undergraduate classes to prepare you. However, these classes do not count in the total course requirement of semester hours because they are undergraduate classes. The classes are as follows:

1. COSC 1010 Introduction to Software Development

2. COSC 2100 Data Structures 

The MS in Computer and Information Science program has no mathematics requirements. We think that mathematics is an excellent background for computer and information science and some of our available classes in COSC and EECE draw heavily on math. However, many of your classes require no math.

• How do you handle BOTH those with Computer Science exposure and those without?

There are several features that work together to achieve handling both groups.

1. Computer science entrance requirements are minimal. The two areas typically covered in Computer Science undergraduate courses, programming and data structure are the prerequisites. Equivalent experience is acceptable. We have had many students without Computer Science exposure take the prerequisite courses in our undergraduate offerings to get ready for the program. Recently we have added the Specialization for Career Change Opportunity which covers the prerequisites in COSC 6500 Foundations of Computing course.

2. We offer many courses at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Under Marquette's system, graduate students are permitted to take up to half their graduate program from courses also available to undergraduates. Hence, the students in the Computer and Information Science program with less computer and information science background will probably take half their program in classes also offered to undergraduate Computer Science majors. Since there are many graduate classes offered, students with more prior academic or work experience will probably take nearly all graduate-level courses.

3. There are no classes that are required. While we have breadth of study requirements, experience qualifies as an alternative and you have the flexibility to select the classes that meet your needs, your career plans, your experience, and your schedule.

One result of this duality is that not everyone graduates with the same skill set. We take students where they are and move them along. The person who started with the equivalent of an undergraduate Computer Science or Information Technology major graduates with a VERY strong skill set. Those students typically qualify for jobs requiring a few years' experience. The person who started with little background grows a lot but is not at the same place. Those students typically qualify for entry-level jobs, a bit ahead of undergraduate Computer Science or Information Technology students.

The courses taken to complete the M.S. in Computer and Information Science are typically offered by the COSC Department, the College of Engineering, and the Graduate School of Management. The flexibility of the program comes from the following considerations:

• As part of the total requirements for the degree, students are permitted to take six semester hours of graduate course work in any department at Marquette University.
• The Program Director can approve the inclusion of additional courses from any department that meet an individual's needs.

Course selections must meet the requirements for breadth, primary, and secondary concentrations that are found in the description of the Computer and Information Science program in the Graduate Bulletin. Consult with your adviser for guidance on course selection.

Note: Credits may be transferred from outside Marquette University as governed by the rules of the Graduate School.

The following is the list of approved courses organized according to academic departments. COSC 5931 and COSC 6931 are topics classes that are proposed by faculty for offering to students. This allows the department to quickly update classes to meet changes in technology. The list of topics shown here represents topics that we offer frequently. Other courses can be approved for your program with the consent of your adviser.

Courses offered in the Department of Computer Science

(See the Graduate Bulletin for the full list of current course offerings)

The classes that are listed each semester under the title, "Topics in Computer Science" present current insight into topics of interest to the Computer and Information Science profession. Examples of topics addressed recently are Cloud Computing, Enterprise Services, and Programming Language Design Concepts.

NOTE: The Professional Seminar in Computer and Information Science is a one-semester-hour online course that is strongly recommended to be taken by all students in the program each term.

Courses offered in the College of Engineering:

NOTE: All graduate courses in the School of Engineering are generally acceptable in the MS in Computer and Information Science program) 

Sample of courses offered in the Graduate School of Management:

NOTE: Graduate School of Management courses focused on information systems and quantitative analysis are generally acceptable in the MS in Computer and Information Science program)

Note: Enrollment in the Business School graduate courses requires the consent of the MBA Director.

 

Additional Courses offered in the Graduate School of Management:

Business has come to increasingly rely on information systems and mathematical modeling and analysis. Marketing relies heavily on e-commerce and analytics of the marketplace. Economics has for many years explored econometrics and used modeling and simulation to do analysis and forecasting. Operations and supply chain management have built on operations research methods and databases to provide analytics and business intelligence. Human Resources uses computer databases and mathematical modeling for analysis and forecasting.

The following courses are appropriate to develop a better understanding of the business context and the applications of computer and information science to business in analysis and decision support. Before taking these courses the student and the advisor are responsible to assure that the program of study meets the requirements for breadth, primary, and secondary concentrations of study that are found in the description of the Computer and Information Science program in the Graduate Bulletin.

Note: Enrollment in the Graduate School of Management courses requires the consent of the MBA Director and the Computer and Information Science program academic advisor.

Additional Courses offered in other departments, colleges, and schools:

Several other departments have courses that are related to computer and information science. The following are of interest.

• Founded to Enable Career Change
  Founded in 2001, the Master of Science in Computer and Information Science program quickly established and continues to maintain an outstanding track record of enabling students who were non-computer science undergraduates to enjoy strong computer and information science careers.
• Broadened to Enable Career Advancement in Computer Science
  Computing technology has evolved and become pervasive. A need has arisen to provide depth and breadth of knowledge about computer science and the management of technology to practicing professionals. The Computer and Information Science program has answered the need. Practicing professionals use the program to broaden their scope of understanding, to establish their credentials, and to enable them to successfully handle the issues of emerging technology in their jobs. They have come to realize that technology does not stand still and if they rely only on their experiences, they could easily be left behind or pigeon-holed and limited in their options.
• Choose a specialization or courses with a career focus
  Specializations have required courses that cover the specific elements of theory and practice related to a knowledge area. Upon graduation, the specializations are featured in your transcript. A career focus is more flexible. Students choose from a wide variety of courses related to a knowledge area. There is no designation of your career focus on the diploma; a career focus is a guide for the selection of courses leading to a career path or goal. 
• Preparation for Leadership
  Leaders throughout the computer and information science industry are seeking professionals who not only understand the technology but who can act as innovators and advocates. If you are relying on knowledge of what you have been doing it is difficult to be innovative. Breadth and depth of knowledge foster leadership through the identification of creative opportunities and the confidence to pursue them. Our courses are designed to foster skills in the presentation of ideas. In many courses, open ended discussion topics are included in case studies to enhance advocacy skills.
• Are you thinking about a career change or enhancing your knowledge?
  Have you through circumstances of assignment and aptitude become deeply involved in computer and information science technology? Have you discovered a passion to know more about computer and information science? Do you feel the need to bolster your understanding of your specialization or other areas of computer and information science? Are computer advances revolutionizing your field? Are you wondering how to adapt to the trends you see around you?
• Building a Solid Foundation in Computer Science and Information Technology
  We provide a broad and sound foundation in computer science, exposure to the latest thinking on the management of the technology, and knowledge sharing and networking opportunities for current students and alumni. A substantial and broad exposure to the fundamentals of computer and information science technology can enhance personal and career growth. It can help you to keep your organization on track with technology advances. Knowledge of successful practices for managing computer technology can help you conduct current operations or prepare you to move into jobs with substantial responsibility in the computer and information science field. In our program you will be exposed to a forum to debate the latest topics in the technology. You will become part of a cohort of students and a network of alums who understand the importance of knowledge sharing and advancement. You will have access to faculty with strong business experience and leading-edge research interests.
• Flexibility
  The curriculum has been designed to allow part-time graduate work for students engaged in full-time employment by continuing to schedule most graduate level courses in the evening. Recently, we have augmented the flexibility of the program with distance learning, online, and hybrid class formats. While intended to accommodate these part-time students, the program is entirely suitable for full-time graduate students. Rather than an advanced degree program studying only computer science, this is a high quality, professional degree program, with the primary aim of preparing students to be successful in pursuing long-term careers in the computer and information science field.

Financial Aid for Graduate Students
The Office of Student Financial Aid is the primary source for financial aid services.

Employer Tuition Assistance
Many students in the MS in Computer and Information Science program seek financial aid in the form of assistance from their employers.

Integrated Practicum Curriculum Path
The integrated practicum combines aspects from assistantships, co-ops, and internships to help students offset the tuition costs for graduate school. In this curriculum option students with employable computing skills work part-time at participating employers while attending graduate school full-time. The students gain work experience related to the courses they are studying and earn credits for the work. Curriculum integrated work assignments are required starting in the first semester in the program. Because work assignments are integrated with coursework, international students with an F-1 visa are eligible under the guidelines for Curricular Practical Training. More information is in the Graduate School Bulletin.

Diversity Fellowship
As a Catholic, Jesuit University, Marquette recognizes and cherishes the dignity of each individual. As part of our commitment to the diversity of our faculty, student body, and staff, Marquette has an annual award of a diversity fellowship to a master's degree candidate. Information about the Diversity Fellowships is available here.

Internships
Marquette receives numerous inquiries for interns. The Career Center (CSC) maintains contacts with local, national, and international employers. Once admitted as a student, you can explore internship positions via Handshake. More specific suggestions about internships are available form CSC.

COSC Department Assistantships
The Department of Computer Science (COSC) has a limited number of assistantships. Students compete for Financial Aid with students in other programs within the department. Most assistantships are awarded to Ph.D. candidates in Computational Sciences

Graduate School Resources
The Graduate School publishes Financial Aid Resources information.

For a thorough program description, which includes program requirements and courses, please visit the Graduate School Bulletin.