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Khoury College of Computer Sciences

Align Computer Science

Master's

Technology thrives on new, diverse, and unexpected ideas and perspectives. The Align MSCS program allows professionals with a bachelor's degree in any discipline to earn a master's degree in computer science and break into tech.

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Program Format
On ground
Time Commitment
Part time, Full time
Duration
2.5 - 3 Year(s)
Entry Term(s)
Fall
Meets F1 visa requirements
Yes

Program overview

Launch your tech career

The Align MSCS program gives you graduate-level training so you can apply computer science in your areas of expertise—or explore an entirely new career. Through Align, you’ll build skills in the core areas of CS. Then you’ll get to explore the junctions of CS and law, music, biology, business, physics, education, biomedical science or whatever interests you through projects as well as co-op and internship opportunities.

Full-time students typically complete the Align MSCS in 2.5 years. The program begins with a two-semester introductory sequence, which provides the foundational knowledge to ensure that students from non-technical backgrounds have the tools they need to succeed. The program also includes the opportunity for 4—8 months of paid, full-time work experience at a company or organization.

  • Master’s in computer science designed for students without a background in tech
  • Unique CS learning environment where diversity of thought is valued
  • A close-knit group of peers from different industries to move through the program with you
  • Faculty with connections to diverse employers in and beyond Miami
  • Incredible opportunities for paid, full-time co-op or internship to help you break into the tech industry
  • A welcoming environment where diversity of thought is valued and highly encouraged:
    • 150+ undergraduate disciplines represented by current students
    • 54% identify as female (fall 2024)
    • 16% identify as a race or ethnicity historically underrepresented in tech (domestic students, Fall 2024)
    • 1,200+ accomplished Align MSCS alumni to date

Build in-demand computer science skills

After completing the two-semester bridge, you’ll be prepared for graduate-level coursework in computer science. You’ll also be able to make the program your own by choosing from a range of electives in important breadth areas of computer science.

Bridge courses:

  • Fundamentals of Computer Science
  • Discrete Structures
  • Computer Systems/Algorithms
  • Object Oriented Design

Master’s core courses:

  • Algorithms

Electives in a range of areas:

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Computer-Human Interface
  • Data Science
  • Information Security
  • Networks
  • Programming Languages
  • Software Engineering
  • Systems
  • Theory

Career results for Align MSCS graduates

In Align, more than 40% of graduates are employed by top global tech companies, and the 10 biggest employers of Align graduates are Amazon/AWS, Meta, Google, Microsoft, Oracle, LinkedIn, Salesforce, Stripe, and Apple. More than 70% of graduates are employed in software engineering positions in their first role after graduation, and over 35% of alumni are promoted to senior titles three or more years after graduation.

Career results for Align MSCS graduates include:

  • Systems and infrastructure engineer at LinkedIn
  • Full-stack engineer at Fidelity
  • Mobile app developer at Bose
  • Software engineer at Meta
  • Software developer at Amazon
  • Software engineer at Snowflake
  • Agile developer at SAP

 

Admissions

Apply to the program

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.


Fall Entry Term

Domestic Students:August 30
International Students:May 1

  • PDF or scanned copies of unofficial undergraduate transcripts; you can submit official transcripts from colleges/universities attended at the time of admission

  • Two out of three essay prompts

  • Statement of purpose that should include career goals and expected outcomes and benefits from the program

  • Recent professional resumé listing detailed position responsibilities

  • Three letters of recommendation

  • General GPA minimums: 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, 8.0 on a 10.0 scale, or 80 on a 100 scale

  • Recommended TOEFL (90 minimum) or IELTS (6.5 minimum) examination scores (international students only)

  • GRE Optional

Program objectives

Prepare for success

The Align MS in Computer Science program provides computer science expertise to students without a background in tech.

Professional experience in tech

Khoury College can help connect you with co-op, internship, and project opportunities with the college’s 700+ industry partners.

Apply computer science to your interests

You’ll build skills in the core areas of CS. Then you’ll get to explore the junctions of CS and law, music, biology, business, physics, education, biomedical science, language, or whatever interests you.

Connect with us

Want more information?

We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team. 

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Cost of attendance

Tuition and financial aid

  • $67,500 - $82,500
    Tuition in USD

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.

For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.

There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.

Visit tuition & financial aid
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