If you’re looking to study computer science at Masters level, there are some great scholarships available. In this article, we’ll be discussing all things related to Masters in computer science, talking about how to finance your graduate education, and listing 19 of the best Masters in computer science scholarships for 2024-2025.
What Is a Masters in Computer Science Degree?
Masters in computer science degree is a type of Masters degree that usually takes two years to complete. The coursework for a Masters in computer science degree typically covers topics such as algorithms, programming languages, software engineering, and database systems.
In addition to coursework, students in a Masters in computer science program may also be required to complete a research project or thesis.
Graduates with a Masters in computer science degree often find careers as software developers, system analysts, and computer programmers. Some also go on to pursue doctoral degrees in computer science.
Why Get a Masters in Computer Science?
If you’re considering a Masters in computer science, you might be wondering what the benefits are. After all, a Masters is a significant investment of time and money.
However, there are many good reasons to pursue a Masters in computer science. A Masters can help you to develop advanced skills in computer programming and software design.
It can also give you a deeper understanding of theoretical computer science, which can be helpful in developing new algorithms and systems.
In addition, a Masters can lead to increased job opportunities and higher salaries. So if you’re interested in advancing your career in computer science, a Masters degree may be an excellent choice for you.
Masters in Computer Science Curriculum
Masters in computer science curriculum generally contains a mix of core computer science courses and specialized courses in areas such as systems programming, artificial intelligence, and software engineering.
Most programs also require students to complete a thesis or Capstone project in order to graduate. While the exact curriculum will vary from school to school, there are some common courses that are typically included in a Masters degree program. These include:
- Data structures – This course covers the basic data structures used in computer programming, including arrays, lists, queues, trees, and graphs.
- Algorithms and analysis – This course presents advanced techniques for designing algorithms and analyzing their performance.
- Operating systems – This class focuses on the architecture of modern operating systems and how they work at a low level.
- Computer networks – Students in this course learn about the principles and technologies involved in creating computer network systems.
- Computer graphics – This course covers topics in computer graphics, including design, modeling, rendering, and animation.
- Machine learning – This class introduces the concepts and algorithms used in machine learning, including supervised and unsupervised learning algorithms.
In addition to taking these core classes, students also have the opportunity to choose from a variety of electives in order to customize their degree.
As a result, Masters in computer science programs provide students with a broad knowledge of computer science principles and prepare them for careers in a variety of industries.
How Much Does Masters in Computer Science Cost?
Masters in computer science cost anywhere from $30,000 to over $100,000. The average cost of a Masters in computer science is about $60,000.
Masters in computer science programs typically last two years. Some schools offer online Masters in computer science programs that can be completed in as little as 12-18 months.
The cost of a Masters in computer science depends on the type of school you attend, whether you’re enrolled full-time or part-time, and whether you’re attending an online or brick-and-mortar school.
For example, Masters in computer science programs at Ivy League schools tend to be more expensive than those at state schools. Online Masters in computer science programs are typically less expensive than on-campus programs. If you’re enrolled full-time, you’ll likely pay more per semester than if you’re enrolled part-time.
Many schools offer Masters in computer science scholarships and financial aid for students enrolled in their CS programs. So, if you’re worried about the cost of a Masters in computer science, be sure to explore your financial aid options. You may be surprised at how much money you can save.
How To Pay for Your Masters in Computer Science
There are several ways of paying for your Masters in computer science program. Let’s take a look at them one-by-one.
1. Scholarships
One way to pay for your graduate education is to apply for Masters in computer science scholarships. There are many different scholarships that are available to students, and you may be able to find one that is specifically for computer science students.
Take a look at our selection of Masters in computer science scholarships below and also ask your school’s financial aid office for help in finding scholarships that you may be eligible for.
2. Grants
Another way to pay for a Masters program in computer science is to apply for grants. Grants are typically need-based, so you will need to demonstrate financial need in order to be eligible. You can search for grants online or ask your school’s financial aid office for help in finding grants that you may be eligible for.
3. Loans
You can also finance your Masters program in computer science by taking out loans. There are many different types of loans that you can apply for, including federal student loans and private loans. You should speak with a financial aid advisor at your school to determine which type of loan would be best for you.
4. Personal Savings
Another way to pay for a Masters program in computer science is to use personal savings. If you have been saving money for college or other purposes, you may be able to use those funds to cover the cost of your degree.
You can also look into ways to save money while you are in school, such as by living in an off-campus apartment or by working part-time jobs.
5. Employer Reimbursement
If you are already employed, you may be able to get your employer to reimburse you for the cost of your degree. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs, so it is worth checking with your HR department to see if this is an option for you.
19 Masters in Computer Science Scholarships 2024-2025
Now that we have covered how to pay for Masters in computer science, let’s take a look at some Masters in computer science scholarships that are available for students this year.
1. (ISC)² Graduate Scholarship
- Award: $1,000 – $5,000 USD.
- Eligibility: Cybersecurity or information assurance MS or PhD students
About: The International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, or (ISC)² for short, offers this Masters in computer science scholarship to students enrolled in MS or PhD programs in cybersecurity or information assurance.
2. ISA Educational Foundation Scholarships
- Award: Varies
- Eligibility: Master’s or undergraduate students in automation or control fields
The International Society of Automation is a nonprofit professional organization that offers several Masters in computer science scholarships and grants to students in automation or control fields. If you are enrolled in an automation or control program, be sure to check out the ISA Educational Foundation Scholarships for opportunities to fund your Masters degree.
3. GEM Fellowship Program
- Award: $16,000-full tuition + living expenses
- Eligibility: Masters and PhD students, US citizens or residents, underrepresented minorities
The GEM Fellowship Program is an excellent Masters in computer science scholarship for those who are underrepresented in their field, including women, minorities, and those from rural or low-income communities. This Masters in computer science scholarship provides funding for tuition and living expenses, as well as a paid internship and mentorship opportunities for some awardees.
4. Adobe Research Women-in-Technology Scholarship
- Award: $10,000 + interview for Adobe internship
- Eligibility: Female CS Masters’ or undergrad students
If you are a woman pursuing a Masters in computer science, the Adobe Research Women-in-Technology Scholarship is an excellent Masters in computer science scholarship to consider. This Masters in computer science scholarship is open to female students at the Masters level and provides funding for tuition, living expenses, and an opportunity to interview for a paid internship at Adobe.
5. Buildium Women in Technology Scholarship
- Award: $2,500
- Eligibility: Female CS graduate and undergraduate students in STEM, US or Canada nationals
Looking to further your education in computer science and technology? Consider applying for the Buildium Women in Technology Scholarship! This award is open to female students at the graduate or undergraduate level who are studying STEM fields in the US or Canada. With a $2,500 prize, this scholarship is an excellent opportunity to help fund your education and pursue your goals in the field of computer science.
Apply
6. Generation Google Scholarship
- Award: $10,000
- Eligibility: CS graduate and undergraduate students in gaming who demonstrate need
Launched by Google in 2010, the Generation Google Scholarship is a prestigious award given to CS graduate and undergraduate students who are passionate about gaming technology and demonstrate financial need. To be eligible, applicants must have a strong academic record in computer science and gaming, with an interest in pursuing a career in the gaming industry.
7. Honeywell scholarship
- Award: $5,000
- Eligibility: CS graduate and undergraduate students, Society of Women Engineers members
If you are seeking Masters in computer science scholarships, the Honeywell scholarship may be a good option for you. This award is open to CS graduate and undergraduate students who are members of the Society of Women Engineers. With a prize of $5,000, it is one of the most competitive Masters in computer science scholarships available.
8. Hispanic Scholarship Fund
- Award: $500-$5,000
- Eligibility: CS graduate and undergraduate students of hispanic heritage
If you are a Masters student in computer science and identify as Hispanic, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund may be the right Masters in computer science scholarship for you. This Masters in computer science scholarship offers awards ranging from $500 to $5,000 and is open to both graduate and undergraduate students who are of Hispanic heritage.
9. Ralph W. Shrader Graduate Diversity Scholarship
- Award: $3,000
- Eligibility: Women and minority students
Whether you are a Masters student in computer science or an undergraduate seeking Masters in computer science scholarships, the Ralph W. Shrader Graduate Diversity Scholarship may be a good fit. This Masters in computer science scholarship is open to women and minority students at the Masters or undergraduate level and offers a prize of $3,000.
10. Google Europe Students with Disabilities Scholarship
- Award: 7000 Euro
- Eligibility: Students with disabilities, all levels
As part of Google’s educational initiatives, this scholarship is awarded to students with disabilities pursuing Masters degrees in computer science. Eligible candidates must be enrolled full-time in a Masters program, have excellent academic records, and demonstrate strong interest in computer science.
Apply
11. AFB Paul and Ellen Ruckes Scholarship
- Award: $2,000 to $7,500
- Eligibility: Blind or visually impaired US students
The AFB Paul and Ellen Ruckes Scholarships are awarded to students who are blind or visually impaired and pursuing a Masters in computer science. To be eligible, applicants must be full-time students and demonstrate a strong academic record.
12. Scholarship for Service (SFS) program in Cybersecurity
- Award: scholarship in return for government service upon graduation
- Eligibility: Undergraduate, Masters, and PhD cybersecurity students in the US
Looking to pursue a career in cybersecurity? The Masters in Computer Science Scholarships in Cybersecurity program may be right for you! This scholarship offers promising students financial assistance in return for service in the US government after graduation. To be eligible, you must be an undergraduate, Masters, or PhD student in cybersecurity, and be a US citizen or permanent resident.
13. Fulbright Foreign Student Scholarship to the USA
- Award: Full funding
- Eligibility: International Masters and PhD students
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is a fully funded scholarship for international students sponsored by the U.S. government and is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. Masters and PhD students from all over the world are eligible to apply, and full funding is available.
14. Stanford University Knight-Kennessy Scholarship
- Award: Full funding
- Eligibility: Masters, PhD, Research students
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program is designed to develop a multidisciplinary community of leaders at Stanford University who will address the complex challenges in the modern world. Masters and PhD students, as well as research students, are eligible to apply for this prestigious Masters in computer science scholarship at Stanford.
15. Fully-Funded GHC International Scholarships in USA
- Award: Full funding
- Eligibility: Undergraduate, graduate female students
The GHC International Scholarships are designed to support female students who are pursuing a degree in computer science or a related field. Masters and PhD students, as well as undergraduate students, are eligible to apply for this Masters in computer science scholarship.
Apply
16. GSAPP Admission International Awards At Columbia University
- Award: $5000
- Eligibility: All US domestic and international students
The GSAPP Admission International Awards are designed for talented students pursuing graduate degree in computer science at Columbia University. These awards aim to support the academic excellence and diversity of the student body by providing financial assistance to deserving students.
17. National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program
- Award: $37,000 per year
- Eligibility: CS Masters and PhD students, US nationals
The National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program is one of the most prestigious and well-regarded scholarships available to Masters and PhD students in computer science. As a highly competitive and highly sought-after award, recipients receive $37,000 per year to support their studies and research in CS.
18. UPE/ACM Scholarship Award
- Award: $1,000-3,000
- Eligibility: ACM members
This scholarship is awarded to outstanding students pursuing a Masters in computer science. Eligible candidates must be ACM members and demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, and a commitment to computer science.
19. Accenture American Indian Scholarship Fund | Accenture
- Award: Varies
- Eligibility: Native American and Native Alaskan
This scholarship fund provides support to students majoring in computer science or a related field who share a commitment to community and diversity. Applicants must be of American Indian or Native Alaskan descent and be enrolled full-time in a university program.
Apply
What Should I Do to Qualify for Masters in Computer Science Scholarships?
In order to qualify for Masters in computer science scholarships, you will need to meet certain eligibility criteria. This typically includes holding a strong academic record, demonstrating leadership potential, and showing a commitment to diversity and community.
Additionally, you may need to be a member of certain organizations or associations, such as the ACM or UPE. To learn more about Masters in computer science scholarships and how to apply, you may want to contact the relevant funding organizations directly.
Are there Masters in Computer Science Scholarships for International Students?
Yes, there are Masters in computer science scholarships available for international students, with Fullbright Scholarship being the most prominent example. This scholarship awards international students studying in the USA a full scholarship to support their studies.
In addition to Masters and PhD level awards, there may also be scholarships available specifically for undergraduate students or research students studying CS.
To find out if you are eligible for Masters in computer science scholarships as an international student, you should carefully review the application requirements and eligibility criteria for the awards you are interested in. You may also want to reach out to the funding organizations directly for more information.
Conclusion
If you are passionate about computer science and want to pursue a Masters or PhD degree in this field, Masters in computer science scholarships can help support your studies and research.
Whether you are a US national or international student, there are many opportunities available to help finance your education in CS. To qualify for these scholarships, you will need to demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, and a commitment to diversity and community.
We wish you good luck in your search for your Masters degree funding!
Elmar Mammadov is a software developer, tech startup founder, and computer science career specialist. He is the founder of CS Careerline and a true career changer who has previously pursued careers in medicine and neuroscience.
Due to his interest in programming and years of past personal experience in coding, he decided to break into the tech industry by attending a Master’s in Computer Science for career changers at University of Pennsylvania. Elmar passionately writes and coaches about breaking into the tech industry and computer science in general.