Align 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
• 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

Get ahead as part of an industry-preferred program

Khoury College can help connect you with co-op, internship, and project opportunities with 800+ industry partners. Align MSCS helps prepare you to meet the “preferred” qualifications for job postings with top companies. Many companies offer co-op students full-time employment upon completion of their degree.

Amazon job postings for full-time internships have included the following statement under Preferred Qualifications: “Currently enrolled in the Align Master of Science in Computer Science program at Northeastern University at time of application.”

Build professional connections in Portland, ME

Northeastern’s Portland campus allows you to take advantage of the growing tech market in Portland, ME. Our faculty and student researchers solve global challenges in health, sustainability, and security. Their discoveries answer the urgent needs of industry, academia, and government. We sit down with employer partners to understand their challenges, then design educational and research initiatives together. In turn, partners provide professional opportunities for students, including six-month co-ops and six-week virtual projects.

Learn about key co-op partners, faculty connections, and more in Portland, consistently ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top 25 places to live in the U.S.

Applicants must submit the online application and all required admission materials no later than the stated deadlines to be considered for admission. Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis.

• 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