University of Virginia, MS, Computer Science

The Department of Computer Science does not require that applicants hold a bachelor's degree in Computer Science. However, applicants are expected to have a strong background in Computer Science. A suitable background would include courses in the following core areas: • Data Structures • Discrete Mathematics • Assembly Language and Computer Organization • Programming in a procedural language such as C, C#, C++, or Java. Applicants are also expected to have taken several (but not necessarily all) courses in specialized areas: • Operating Systems • Programming Languages • Algorithms • Compilers • Artificial Intelligence • Computer Networks • Automata and Formal Languages • Software Engineering A year of college-level Calculus is also required. In general, experience gained working is not considered equivalent to successful completion of the courses listed above. Grade Point Average There is no minimum GPA required for admission. However, most applicants who are offered admission to our program have a GPA of at least 3.2 (out of 4.0). The grades in Computer Science, mathematics and related courses are more important than the overall GPA. GRE Scores GRE scores are required. The CS subject test GRE is not required (it is no longer even offered). A score of at least 90 on the TOEFL iBT is preferred. It is rare that we offer admission to an applicant who scored less than 22 on the Speaking section of TOEFL.