Master of Computer Science at Pennsylvania State University

The program is professionally oriented and designed to prepare students for employment in industry or government. Courses emphasize practical concerns as well as the relevant theoretical background. The program will provide appropriate background for diverse tasks such as:

• developing scientific and engineering applications,
• developing system software,
• developing safety or security critical systems,
• solving computationally hard problems, and
• developing distributed applications.

While not intended as preparation for subsequent entrance to a Ph.D. program, this goal is not precluded. Once the specific course requirements are met, appropriate selection of electives will enable individual interests to be met within the program.

1. KNOW: Graduates will be able to demonstrate mastery of core principles in Computer Science.
2. THINK/APPLY/CREATE: Graduates will be able to critically and creatively conceptualize, evaluate, formulate, and solve computing problems.
3. COMMUNICATE: Graduates will be able to effectively communicate, to diverse audiences, solutions to complex problems.
4. PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE: Graduates will be able to demonstrate an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility and conduct themselves accordingly.