Intro to Computation Theory
Several models of computation (including finite automata, pushdown automata, and Turing machines) and their related languages. Topics include closure properties, regular languages, context‐free languages, decidability and recognizability, and time and space complexity (including NP‐completeness and randomized complexity).
Software Verification & Validation
Pre-requisite(s): CSI 5303, or equivalent; or consent of instructor. Advanced topics in software engineering research, including techniques used in software verification and validation with a particular focus on software specification and testing.
Applied Artificial Intelligence
Traditional machine learning algorithms, neural networks, etc., are pieces of a greater puzzle required for machines to qualitatively learn, rather than just statistically remember. Therefore, students learn new AI approaches and AI architectures: autonomy, deep sensing, measuring trust, complexity analysis, security, ethics, multi-state, and quantum for producing systems for challenging human settings like deep-sea, space, and disaster recovery
Design and implementation of distributed systems with up-to-date software architecture and relevant development frameworks. Topics include inter-module communication, asynchronous processing, security, concurrency, parallelism, and an overview of contemporary enterprise technology and challenges.
Is a Computer Science Degree Required to Qualify?
No. Applicants with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Physics or another closely related field are also eligible.
Pre-requisite(s): Students are expected to have competency equivalent to CSI 5301, or equivalent course. Advanced data structures, algorithm design, and analysis. Topics include common data structures, algorithms, implementation, classes of algorithms, algorithm analysis, computational tradeoffs, and adaptation of familiar algorithms to new problems.
Advanced Object-Oriented Development
Object-oriented design and development with best practices in solving recurring engineering problems. Topics include core object‐oriented concepts, such as composition, inheritance, polymorphism, and templates; an overview of design pattern‐based problem solving and design practices; and advanced design patterns applicable for enterprise solution development.
Software Engineering (Required for Software Engineering Track)
Pre-requisite(s): Students are expected to have competency equivalent to CSI 5303, or equivalent course. Methods for developing and maintaining software systems; system software life cycle, requirements elicitation, specification and design methods, planning, maintenance, configuration management, documentation and coding standards, cost estimation, metrics and quality attributes; class project.
Am I Eligible?
Connect with one of our enrollment advisors or visit our Frequently Asked Questions Page to learn more about program eligibility.
Advanced Data Communications
Pre-requisite(s): Students are expected to have competency equivalent to CSI 5304, or equivalent course. Survey of current and seminal research in networking.
Advanced Software Engineering
Prerequisite(s): CSI 5324 or consent of instructor. Advanced topics in software engineering research, including techniques used in the modeling and analysis of complex systems.
Recognition
U.S. News & World Report showed the multi-faceted benefits of a Baylor University degree in its most recent rankings. The publication issued ranks including:
Pre-requisite(s): Students are expected to have competency equivalent to CSI 5302, or equivalent course. A continuation of database system implementations to include object-oriented and knowledge-based systems. Additional topics covered are physical-data organization, database integrity, security, transaction management, and distributed database management.
Core Courses
Below are the core course options that the program offers. Contact us to learn more about which courses you will take as part of your program.
Application Deadline: Now Accepting Applications. Seating is limited.
Next Start Date: January 2024
Software Engineering Track Curriculum
The courses you will take in the Master of Computer Science online – Software Engineering track are listed below. Based on your previous education, you may need to take some foundation courses prior to beginning your core coursework. They are listed in the brochure and an enrollment advisor can help determine if they are necessary.
The Baylor Advantage
The Master of Computer Science online program places you in the position to work on real-world projects. Software Engineering candidates at Baylor University also understand that their work can help the world. As a graduate student, you would bring to life the university’s mission including its commitment to:
“...advanced educational opportunities to develop ethical and capable scholars and practitioners who contribute to their academic disciplines, professional fields and society.”
A dedicated Student Success Coach helps every student navigate graduate school from admission through their final project. You can add valuable skills and knowledge from faculty with industry experience. The Master of Computer Science online program also keeps student cohorts together to encourage collaboration.
High Demand for Computer Science Roles
Texas is the second-largest market
for computer-related positions
- CompTIA, 2022
Baylor University Produces Innovative Leaders
The Master of Computer Science online program emphasizes global connectivity and ethical thinking through its Software Engineering track. Future developers and team leaders know how their software will impact users’ lives. This awareness filters through every step in the development life cycle to create human-centered software.
Full-time faculty members draw on extensive academic research to help candidates advance their careers. Master candidates collaborate and complete projects that respond to real-world challenges.
Baylor University followed curriculum standards from the Association for Computer Machinery (ACM) when developing this degree. Courses in the Master of Computer Science online program help graduates achieve ACM benchmarks like:
- Practicing ethical behavior and decision-making processes
- Describing the strengths and weaknesses of software packages
- Work well with distributed teams on complex projects
- Identifying project conflicts before finding solutions
Graduates of this leading online program follow methodical processes to create valuable software. They also leave Baylor University with a desire for improvement that leads to collaboration and innovation.
How long is the online Masters in Computer Science - Software Engineering Track?
Students with a Computer Science background typically complete the program in just over 1.5 years. Students with a non-Computer Science background typically complete the program in just over 2 years. Length to program completion may vary by student.
Is a Computer Science degree required to qualify?
No. Applicants with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or another closely related field are also eligible.
Is programming experience required?
Yes, you must be proficient in a high-level, object-oriented programming language such as Java, Python, C, C++, or C#. Programming experience that is self-taught would not apply and proficiency must be acquired via work experience or education.
Am I eligible for the program if I am a self-taught programmer without formal programming education?
Programming experience can only be acquired via education or gained through work experience. If gained through work experience, you must prove your proficiency with programming.
What if I have experience with only one of the five programming languages required?
Experience and proficiency with any one of the five (Java, Python, C, C++, or C#) is sufficient.
If I do NOT have a degree in Computer Science or something similar, which math classes must I have completed to be eligible for the program?
Calculus II AND Linear Algebra.
