Abhyank Srinet
Key Takeaways
-Opportunity to specialize in areas like AI, data science, or software engineering in the University of Pennsylvania MS in CS program
-MCIT program is tailored for students without prior computer science degrees
-Curriculum covers core CS concepts and practical programming skills
-Online and on-campus options available to suit diverse student needs
-Strong emphasis on career support and industry connections
Introduction
The University of Pennsylvania's Master of Computer and Information Technology (MCIT) program stands out as a unique pathway for students without a CS background to break into the tech industry. The University of Pennsylvania MS in CS, offered by Penn Engineering, equips career changers and non-CS graduates with essential skills to thrive in computer science. Whether pivoting your career or enhancing your expertise, UPenn's program blends theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing you for success in the fast-evolving tech landscape.
| Program Length | 12 Months |
| Tuition Fees for MS CS 2024 | $31,460 |
| Program deadline MS CS 2026 |
February 3, 2025 |
| Intakes | 2 |
| Application Fees | $90 |
Class Profile
The University of Pennsylvania MS in CS attracts a diverse and highly qualified group of students, with backgrounds in engineering, mathematics, and related fields. This program's class profile typically features individuals with strong academic achievements, relevant work experience, and a passion for advancing in the tech industry.
| GPA | 2.7 |
| GRE (Optional) | Quantitative section: 160–170 Verbal section: 150–160 Analytical Writing: 4.0 or higher |
| Waiver Available | Yes |
| IELTS | 7.5 |
| TOEFL | 100 |
| DET (Duolingo English Test) | 135 |
University of Pennsylvania MS in CS Rankings
The University of Pennsylvania MS in CS is consistently ranked among the top programs globally due to its strong academic reputation and industry connections. As of 2024, the program holds a competitive position in both global and national rankings:
| Ranked By | Ranking |
|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings | #11 (2025) |
| US News & World Report | #15 (2023 Global) |
| Times Higher Education (THE) | #35 (2023 Computer Science) |
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible at the University of Pennsylvania MS in CS program , applicants should have a strong foundation in both mathematics and computer science.
| Resume | Your resume to learn about your job skills, the depth of your professional experience, your leadership experience and more. |
| Personal Statement | In two pages or less, write an essay that answers of the questions. |
| Letters of Recommendation | Two letters of recommendation |
| Transcripts | When you apply, please submit an unofficial transcript from each university or college where you earned course credit. Your transcripts must be in English. |
| Application Fee | There is $90 nonrefundable application fee along with your online application. |
| GRE (Optional) | GRE is optional during the 2024-2025 application cycle |
| English Language Proficiency (for international students) | For International applicant or a non-US citizen or permanent resident and English is not your native language, you must submit official scores IELTS: 7.5 |
| Test Waivers | English-language requirement waived, you must meet one of the following criteria by the time of matriculation:
|
Program & Curriculum of University of Pennsylvania MS in CS
The University of Pennsylvania MS in CS program requirement for students to complete four core courses from a selection of key topics:
- Theory Courses:
CIS 5020: Analysis of Algorithms
CIS 5110: Theory of Computation
- Systems Courses:
CIS 5050: Software Systems
CIS 5480: Operating Systems Design and Implementation
CIS 5530: Networked Systems
CIS 5550: Internet and Web Systems
- Machine Learning & AI Courses:
CIS 5190: Applied Machine Learning
CIS 5200: Machine Learning
CIS 5210: Artificial Intelligence
These courses form the foundation of your study, ensuring a strong grasp of essential computer science concepts at the University of Pennsylvania MS in CS.
Elective Courses
Students must choose three elective courses from advanced CIS topics or select approved non-CIS electives to meet the total requirement of 10 course units:
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning:
CIS 5220: Deep Learning for Data Science
CIS 5300: Natural Language Processing
- Security & Software Engineering:
CIS 5550: Advanced Security
CIS 5600: Software Engineering Practices
Electives offer the flexibility to explore specialized fields, tailoring the University of Pennsylvania MS in CS program to fit individual interests
Fees & Financing
The following information of University of Pennsylvania MS in CS pertains to the academic year of 2023-2024.
Master's students at the School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS) are billed for tuition and fees based on their enrollment in credit units (C.U.s).
It's important to understand that the listed tuition and fees may not cover the entire cost of your program. SEAS calculates financial aid eligibility based on the full-time living expense budgets provided below, in addition to your tuition and program fees. This budgetary information should be used as a guide for planning your finances for the academic year.
Please be aware: that students enrolled in online programs do not qualify for financial aid funding to cover living expenses.
| Tuition | $31,460 |
| General Fee | $1,901 |
| Technology Fee | $360 |
| Clinical Fee | $344 |
| Total | $34,065 |
There are several scholarship opportunities for international students at the University of Pennsylvania MS in CS program :
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships | Indian students with a bachelor’s degree and 3+ years of work experience | Full tuition, living expenses, travel costs |
| Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarship | Indian students under 30 with excellent academic records | Up to INR 20 Lakhs as an interest-free loan |
| Generation Google Scholarship | Indian students in tech-related fields | $10,000 |
| AAUW International Fellowships | Female Indian students | $18,000 for tuition and living expenses |
Employment Upon Graduation
Graduates from the University of Pennsylvania MS in CS program enjoy a high employment rate within six months of graduation. The average starting salary is $90,000 (74.32 lakhs INR), and around 94.1% of undergraduates secure employment soon after finishing their degree.
| Average Starting Salary | $90,000 (74.32 lakhs INR) |
| Undergraduate Employment Rate | 94.1% |
| Graduates Employed or Pursuing Higher Education within 6 Months | 88.9% |
What makes School unique?
The University of Pennsylvania MS in CS program offers a distinctive blend of academic rigor, interdisciplinary learning, and hands-on experience, setting it apart from other programs.
- World-Class Faculty: Learn from pioneers in computer science.
- Interdisciplinary Opportunities: Collaborate with other schools like Wharton.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access advanced labs such as the GRASP Lab.
- Strong Industry Links: Benefit from partnerships with top tech firms.
- Prime Location: Enjoy the dynamic environment of Philadelphia, a hub for tech startups and innovation.
CIS/MSE and MCIT Information Session
Related Links
| Admission Requirements | How to Apply |
| Eligibility & admission process | Admission Statistics |
| Graduate Fellowships + Aid | Fellowship Aid |
Conclusion
The University of Pennsylvania's (as one of the best mim colleges in USA) MCIT Program offers a unique pathway for those transitioning into computer science or aiming to enhance existing skills. Its curriculumS, emphasizing hands-on learning and inclusive intellectual rigor, prepares students for diverse roles in the tech industry. With financial aid options available, UPenn ensures accessibility for qualified candidates. If you're passionate about computer science and ready for rigorous study, the University of Pennsylvania MS in CS program may align perfectly with your career goals and academic interests.
