Overview

The Computer Science programme at Northern Illinois University provides a sophisticated curriculum that balances theoretical foundations with practical application. Students engage with a rigorous academic framework designed to address the complexities of modern computing and the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.

This Master’s degree requires a minimum of 31 graduate-level credits to complete. The department offers a flexible, track-based structure, allowing individuals to customise their learning journey according to their professional goals. Students can choose to focus on specific areas such as software systems, data-centric computing, or advanced algorithmic topics.

A significant feature of the curriculum is its emphasis on durable skills rather than temporary tool knowledge.

Why Computer Science at Northern Illinois University?

The department is housed within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, providing a rich academic environment for postgraduate study. Facilities include dedicated laboratories and resources within the Psychology-Computer Science Building, fostering a collaborative atmosphere for both teaching and research activities.

The institution emphasises a deliberate balance between theory and practice, which is essential for long-term career adaptability. Students benefit from a curriculum that evolves alongside industry trends, ensuring that the teaching remains relevant to the needs of the global technology sector and research communities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 981 per credit
National fee: USD 593 per credit
Local fee: USD 593 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Cybersecurity
Artificial Intelligence
Data-centric Computing
Software Systems
Programming
Data Analysis
System Design
Algorithmic Foundations
Computational Reasoning

Careers with Computer Science

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in both industry and research settings. The programme focuses on developing skills in data analysis, system design, and algorithmic thinking, which are highly valued by employers looking for adaptable technology professionals. Students are equipped for self-directed learning and leadership in a rapidly changing field.

The university supports career development through various resources, including the Huskies Get Hired platform and dedicated recruiting events. These services connect students with potential employers and internship opportunities, helping them transition from academic study to professional roles in the computing industry.

Programme Structure

Courses:

Database Concepts

Theory of Computation

Big Data Analytics

Artificial Intelligence

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-26 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-15 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2026-05-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-10 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

31 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

DeKalb, United States

Disciplines

Computer Sciences Web Technologies & Cloud Computing Bioinformatics & Biostatistics View 118 other Masters in Web Technologies & Cloud Computing in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.7

GRE^®

Required

GMAT

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Completed a four-year undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution or one with equivalent recognition.

Achieved a 2.75 grade point average on a 4.00 scale, or the equivalent.

If you received a three-year degree awarded through the Bologna process in Europe or a three-year Bachelor of Commerce or Bachelor of Business Administration awarded in India, you are eligible to apply (provided you are seeking admission to the MBA or OMIS program).

Transcripts

Letters of recommendation.

Statement of purpose.

Test scores (if required).

Resume or curriculum vitae (optional)

Additional materials required by your program.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

12307 USD / year

≈ 12307 USD / year
Out-of-State

6153 USD / year

≈ 6153 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

6153 USD / year

≈ 6153 USD / year

Additional Details

National and International: 938.99 per credit
Local: 569.75 per credit

Living costs

DeKalb

United States

1100 - 1500 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Computer Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

DeKalb

Financing

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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