Computer Science

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at the University of California provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the principles and practices of computing, preparing them for a wide range of careers in technology, research, and innovation. The program combines rigorous coursework in programming, algorithms, data structures, computer architecture, and software engineering with opportunities for specialization in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, data science, and human-computer interaction. Students are encouraged to develop strong problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and technical proficiency through both theoretical studies and practical projects. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience, including laboratory work, software development, and collaborative projects, fostering teamwork and communication skills essential for professional success. In addition to core computer science topics, students can explore interdisciplinary courses that connect computing with fields like biology, economics, and social sciences, reflecting the university’s commitment to versatile and impactful education. The program also offers research opportunities, internships, and industry partnerships to enhance experiential learning and prepare students for graduate studies or immediate employment in the tech industry. Faculty members are distinguished researchers and practitioners who actively contribute to advancements in computing and related disciplines. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers in software development, data analysis, systems design, cybersecurity, research, and entrepreneurship, or to continue their education through advanced degrees. The university’s state-of-the-art facilities, vibrant campus community, and strong emphasis on innovation make it an ideal environment for aspiring computer scientists to grow professionally and personally.

Requirements for the Computer Science Master’s Degree: Project Track

Course Requirements

Each student is required to take 40 credits as follows:

• Computer Science 200, Research and Teaching in Computer Science and Engineering, 3 credits
• Computer Science 201, Analysis of Algorithms, 5 credits
• Computer Science 203, Programming Languages, 5 credits
• Computer Science 296, Master's Project, 2 credits
• a base requirement in computer architecture must be met by taking Computer Engineering 110 (grade B or higher) or Computer Engineering 202. Computer Engineering 110 can be taken to meet the architecture requirement, however, the credits will not be counted toward graduation requirements
• one course each from three different breadth categories for a total of three courses (15 credits)—see www.cs.ucsc.edu/graduates/breadth/
• all remaining courses must be regular, 5-credit graduate courses from computer science; courses that do not count include all courses numbered 200, 280, 296, 297, and 299
• at least 25 credits must be in computer science
• upper-division undergraduate UCSC computer science courses may be taken to strengthen a student's preparation for graduate studies. At most, 10 credits of UCSC upper-division undergraduate computer science courses (other than CMPS 101) may be counted toward the degree requirements.
• with the exception of 200, 280, 296, 297, and 299, all graduate courses and upper-division courses must be taken for letter grade. Only courses with a letter grade of B- or higher can be counted towards the M.S. degree requirements.
• courses that are taken to satisfy an undergraduate degree requirement cannot be counted towards the M.S. degree requirements. Undergraduates who are in their senior year at UCSC and are taking computer science upper-division courses or computer science graduate courses that are beyond their undergraduate degree requirements can count those courses as part of their M.S. degree should they apply to the computer science M.S. program.
• courses from other institutions may be substituted for equivalent courses at UCSC (with the approval of the graduate director and graduate committee) but may not count toward the 40-credit requirement of the computer science M.S. degree. For example, a student may substitute an equivalent course for CMPS 201 but may not count that course toward the 40-credit requirement. As another example, a student may substitute an equivalent graduate course for CMPS 260 and count that as breadth but may not count that course toward the 40-credit requirement or as part of the 25 credits from computer science.

Each student must complete CMPS 200 in their first year.

Each student must complete CMPS 201 or a course to prepare the student for CMPS 201 in their first year, after which CMPS 201 should be completed by the end of the second year.

Each student must complete CMPS 203 or a course to prepare the student for CMPS 203 in their first year, after which CMPS 203 should be completed by the end of the second year.

Each student must complete Computer Engineering 110 or Computer Engineering 202 in their first year.

Project

Completion of a master's project is required for the master's degree. The M.S. project is a team-based project supervised by a faculty adviser and approved by a reading committee composed of two faculty members (one of whom is the faculty adviser). A team is made up of 3-5 members. In exceptional cases, an individual project may be possible. Projects can either be proposed by the team, or the team may bid on projects proposed by faculty members. It is also possible to have industry or government sponsored projects, in which case, the industry/government supervisor can be invited to be an optional 3rd member on the reading committee. In situations where multiple teams are bidding on a project, the project sponsor will decide on which team will work on the project. Project lifetimes are on the order of one to two quarters. It is expected that team members are enrolled in CMPS 296 (Master's Project) in at least one of the quarters. Over the course of the project, teams may be required to meet milestones, e.g. design and specification, implementation plan, checkpoints, etc.,  at a schedule arranged by the faculty adviser. For effective team management and member participation, evaluation strategies such as 360-Degree Reviews may be employed. The final project must be accepted by the review committee before the master of science degree is conferred.

Requirements for the Computer Science Master's Degree: Thesis Track

Course Requirements

Each student is required to take 43 credits as follows:

• Computer Science 200, Research and Teaching in Computer Science and Engineering, 3 credits;
• Computer Science 201, Analysis of Algorithms, 5 credits;
• Computer Science 203, Programming Languages, 5 credits;
• Computer Science 299, Thesis Research, 5 credits;
• a base requirement in computer architecture must be met by taking Computer Engineering 110 (grade B or higher) or Computer Engineering 202. Computer Engineering 110 can be taken to meet the architecture requirement, however, the credits will not be counted toward graduation requirements;
• one course each from three different breadth categories for a total of three courses (15 credits) —see www.cs.ucsc.edu/graduates/breadth/
• all remaining courses must be regular, 5-credit graduate courses from computer science courses that do not count include all courses numbered 200, 280, 296, 297, and 299
• at least 25 credits must be in computer science
• upper-division undergraduate UCSC computer science courses may be taken to strengthen a student's preparation for graduate studies. At most, 10 credits of UCSC upper-division undergraduate computer science courses (other than CMPS 101) may be counted toward the degree requirements.
• with the exception of 200, 280, 296, 297, and 299, all graduate courses and upper-division courses must be taken for letter grade. Only courses with a letter grade of B- or higher can be counted toward the M.S. degree requirements.
• courses that are taken to satisfy an undergraduate degree requirement cannot be counted toward the M.S. degree requirements. Undergraduates who are in their senior year at UCSC and are taking computer science upper-division courses or computer science graduate courses that are beyond their undergraduate degree requirements can count those courses as part of their M.S. degree should they apply to the computer science M.S. program.
• courses from other institutions may be substituted for equivalent courses at UCSC (with the approval of the graduate director and graduate committee) but may not count towards the 40-credit requirement of the computer science M.S. degree. For example, a student may substitute an equivalent course for CMPS201 but may not count that course towards the 40-credit requirement. As another example, a student may substitute an equivalent graduate course for CMPS2 60 and count that as breadth but may not count that course toward the 40-credit requirement or as part of the 25 credits from CMPS

Each student must complete CMPS 200 in their first year.

Each student must complete CMPS 201 or a course to prepare the student for CMPS 201 in their first year, after which CMPS 201 should be completed by the end of the second year.

Each student must complete CMPS 203 or a course to prepare the student for CMPS 203 in their first year, after which CMPS 203 should be completed by the end of the second year.

Each student must complete Computer Engineering 110 or Computer Engineering 202 in their first year.

Thesis

Completion of a master's thesis is required for the master's degree. To fulfill this requirement, the student submits a written proposal to a faculty member, usually by the third academic quarter. By accepting the proposal, the faculty member becomes the thesis adviser. In consultation with the adviser, the student forms a master's thesis reading committee with at least two additional faculty members, each of whom is provided a copy of the proposal. The student presents an expository talk on the thesis research, and the final thesis must be accepted by the review committee before the award of the master of science degree.

Requirements

• Transcripts. You may upload a scanned copy of your unofficial transcripts to your online application, or send official copies to the Graduate Application Processing address
• Statement of Purpose. Recommended length is a concise 2-4 pages, single-spaced.
• The Personal History Statement is required of all applicants.This statement will be used in conjunction with your application for graduate admission and financial support. Please note that the Personal History Statement should not duplicate the Statement of Purpose.
• A résumé is required for some applications and optional for others.
• All recommendation letters are required to be submitted electronically through the online application.  You must register a minimum of three recommenders, and as many as five, via the Recommendations page of the online application.
• The application fee for the 2016-17 academic year is $105 for domestic applicants and $125 for international applicants. This fee can be paid by credit card or e-check (the e-check option is only available if you have a U.S. bank account). 
• Official GRE scores must be sent from the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to UC Santa Cruz, School Code 4860 (no department code necessary).  Official scores must be received prior to the application deadline.
• If you are a non-native English speaker you will be required to take an English language competency exam.  UC Santa Cruz accepts the TOEFL or IELTS test.  Official scores must also be sent from the testing service to UC Santa Cruz, School Code 4860

Scholarships

• Regents Fellowships. A limited number of these fellowships are awarded to first-year graduate students in master's and doctoral programs. These awards provide a stipend and/or payment of university fees except non-resident tuition.
• Global Education

The University of California offers a comprehensive Computer Science program designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in technology, research, and academia. The program provides a rigorous curriculum that covers fundamental topics such as algorithms, data structures, computer architecture, programming languages, and operating systems. Students also have the opportunity to explore advanced areas including artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, software engineering, and human-computer interaction. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through laboratory work, project-based assignments, and collaborative research initiatives, enabling students to develop practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge.

The Computer Science curriculum is regularly updated to keep pace with rapid technological advances and industry demands, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to meet contemporary challenges. Students can participate in internships, cooperative education programs, and industry partnerships that provide real-world experience and networking opportunities. The university also encourages undergraduate research, allowing students to work alongside faculty on cutting-edge projects and innovations.

Faculty members are renowned experts in their fields, and the department actively promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion within its community. The program offers various specializations and elective courses, providing customizable pathways to suit individual interests and career objectives. Additionally, students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, computing resources, and career services to facilitate academic success and professional development. Graduates of the Computer Science program at the University of California are highly regarded in the IT industry and academia, often securing positions at leading tech companies, startups, research institutions, and government agencies. The program's interdisciplinary approach and strong industry connections aim to produce graduates capable of solving complex problems and leading innovation in the digital age.