Graduate Program - The Master of Science

The Master of Science (MS) program is intended for students planning to pursue a professional career directly after finishing the MS program, rather than continuing on in a PhD program.  The MS program is also suitable for students interested in undertaking a research project but who are not sure yet whether they want to make the multi-year commitment to a PhD program.

The purpose of the program is to expand the student’s depth of knowledge substantially beyond the BA/BS in Computer Science or related field.  The Yale Computer Science MS offers students the unique opportunity to study with faculty in small classes, and on a one to one basis.

Upon acceptance, students may choose to follow the General Track, or may apply to one of the Specialized Tracks in Bioinformatics or in Computing and the Arts. Students in the General Track are advised by the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS). Students in the Specialized Tracks are advised by track faculty, with their final programs subject to approval by the DGS. Students in specialized tracks follow a set of courses that prepare them to do a one term independent project in the area of specialization.

The purpose of Specialized Tracks is to allow the student to work more closely with faculty and students in a chosen area and to do an independent project. Choosing or not choosing a specialized track will not affect whether a student is admitted to the MS program. Participation in specialized tracks is not explicitly annotated on the student's diploma or transcript.

Students should apply to the MS program through the Yale Graduate School.  Students in the MS program may enter the Yale PhD program. However students who wish to continue on for a doctoral degree after completing the MS must apply separately for the PhD program, using the standard forms and procedures required for applicants from outside of Yale. The MS is not a prerequisite for the PhD program, and students may apply to the PhD program directly after finishing their undergraduate degree.

For specific questions about the MS program, contact Prof. Holly Rushmeier.