Are there any prerequisite courses for the master of science in computer science?
Students with a strong background in computer science (CS), such as a bachelor’s degree in CS, should be all set, but we ask most students to take a placement exam to confirm that you have the foundation for graduate study. Students who do not have this foundation may be required to take one or more prerequisite courses on the undergraduate level, such as Computer Science I or II.
Are the costs quoted for the program the real bottom line, or are there other hidden expenses?
The costs we quoted are based on current tuition & fee rates, and are inclusive of all costs for taking courses toward a degree. Books are not included in those prices, of course. There are no additional fees currently in place for the program, such as graduation fees, which some schools require for every student. Students who register by the registration deadline each semester have the $50 registration fee waived, while other schools have that as a regular fee no matter when you sign up for classes.
How flexible is the curriculum?
All students take the core requirements, and students in the data science concentration must use their four electives to satisfy those requirements for the concentration. Students in the computer science program, but not in the data science concentration, may choose any four elective courses.
Will I be able to get the classes I need? Or will they fill up and be closed for registration?
Fitchburg State keeps graduate CS courses small with a limit of 20 seats per course. It’s best to register early to ensure an available seat. Registration for fall session is now open.
Are books included in the cost? Are there any issues with online students getting textbooks in time for the class?
No, books are not included in the cost. Textbooks are available for purchase through the University Bookstore on-campus or online. Students are encouraged to purchase books upon registering for a class to secure the appropriate materials on time.
Does Career Services assist you in finding a job upon graduation?
Graduate students are offered the following services through Career Services:
- Career counseling
- Resume critique
- Cover letter critique
- Job search strategies
- Interview skills
- Mock interviews
- Transitional counseling
Are graduate assistantships available?
Graduate assistantships are available for online or on campus students, however you must work on campus.
What is the application deadline?
The application priority deadlines for graduate students are as follows:
Spring semester: October 1
Fall semester: March 15
How can I check on the status of my application?
At least two hours after submitting the online graduate application you may log in through the application portal to check on the status. Once received, documents take 48 to 72 business hours to process.
Where can I find the guide for international applicants?
https://www.fitchburgstate.edu/uploads/files/InternationalEducation/International_Student_Application_Guide.pdf
Do I automatically qualify for CPT and OPT?
To be considered for CPT you must complete at least one full-time semester as an F-1 student at Fitchburg State, and have this request approved by your academic department and the appropriate dean.
How long does it take to complete a graduate program?
Traditionally, the master of science in computer science program is completed in about two years.
May I work while going to school?
F-1 visa students are eligible to work on campus up to 20 hours a week during the academic year (September – May) and up to 40 hours a week during breaks (winter, spring) and summers. Many of our students work as tutors in the office right across from the Office of International Education, others have found positions in the library, with campus police, and in the recreation center.
Is the M.S. in Computer Science program a STEM program? Yes
Do I need to have my foreign transcripts evaluated?
Yes, you must have official foreign transcripts evaluated by an accredited agency. We recommend you work with WES or CED.
Do transcripts need to be official or may I send them on my own?
All transcripts must be official and sent directly from each institution in a sealed envelope. We will also accept electronic transcripts coming directly from the institution.
Do you offer on campus housing?
On campus housing is not available for graduate students. Affordable off campus housing choices are available in the Fitchburg area. Please contact the Office of International Education (OIE) for more information.
Do you offer conditional admission?
No, we do not offer conditional admission. If your score is below the minimum you must retake the IETLS and/or TOEFL exam to complete the application process.
Do you offer a payment plan for International students?
Yes, we offer a payment plan for International students. Please visit our website for more information, or contact the Student Accounts office.
How may I finance my graduate education?
Fitchburg State has several financing options including a payment plan for fall and spring courses, scholarships, and graduate assistantships, including positions in the Education Department. Visit the Financing your education tab in our Evening Student Resource Center on our website for more information.
How do I apply for financial aid?
To apply for financial aid submit the FAFSA application. Our school code is 002184. You must be admitted into a degree program to be awarded financial aid. Certificate and Certificates of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) programs aren’t eligible for federal aid funding.
When will my I-20 be issued?
After you are admitted and complete the online intent to enroll form, you’ll be contacted by the OIE to submit the required paperwork. Please note that an I-20 will not be issued to a student in an online program.
What documents do I need to submit for my I-20?
- A copy of your biographical/photo page of your passport
- Financial documents or bank statements
- A letter of support if the financial documents are not in your name
- I-20 request form
What documents do I need to submit for an admissions decision?
- Official transcripts from every college or university that you’ve attended (undergraduate and graduate schools)
- Official transcript evaluation
- Official IELTS or TOEFL scores
- Professional resume or CV
- Three letters of recommendation (for master of science in computer science applicants, and one letter of recommendation for MBA applicants with a GPA of less than 2.8)
- Application fee
What is the minimum score on the English proficiency exam?
Students must receive a minimum score of 6.5 on the IELTS, or 79 on the Internet Based Test (IBT) TOEFL to meet the application requirement.
How does online learning work?
Many online courses are asynchronous, meaning that you don’t have to log in at a certain day or time, as long as you’re meeting the daily and weekly goals set by your instructor. Students should expect at least one hour of instruction for every credit hour earned, and two hours of assignments for every one hour of instruction. This means students should expect a commitment of at least nine hours per week per course.
Log in at any time to try an online demo course.
Still have questions? Contact our advising staff to get the answers you need.
