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Earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years. This rigorous, accelerated program strengthens your foundation in computing and gives you the advanced skills to stand out in research or industry.

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Apply Junior Year

Apply in Your Junior Year

Plan ahead and submit your application while in your junior year.

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Graduate Courses

Get a Head Start on Graduate Courses

Take up to 12 hours of graduate coursework while completing your BS.

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2 in 5

Earn Two Degrees in Five Years

Complete both your BS and MS in an accelerated timeline.

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150

Complete 150 Credit Hours

Earn 120 hours for the BS and 30 hours for the MS to meet the program requirements.

Comparison Chart

Explore the CS and Computational Science, Engineering and Mathematics (CSEM) tracks to find the right fit for your interests and career goals. The CS BS+MS focuses on advanced computer science and research, while the CSEM+BS combines computing with math and science to tackle real-world problems.

Titles

CS BS+MS

CSEM BS+MS

CS/IS BS+MS

Degrees Earned

CS: BS in Computer Science, MS in Computer Science

CSEM: BS in Computer Science, MS in Computational Science, Engineering and Mathematics

CSIS:BS in Computer Science, MS in Master of Science in Information Studies

Program Focus

CS: Advanced computer science topics and research

CSEM: An interdisciplinary approach, combining computing, mathematics and scientific applications with a strong focus on data, numerical analysis and real-world problem-solving

CSIS:A blend of foundational computing with information studies, with a strong focus on technical skills and a human-centered / systems-level understanding of information

Typical Career Paths with Degree

CS: Graduates often engage in advanced roles within software development, systems architecture, data analysis and research positions in both academia and industry.

CSEM: Graduates typically pursue careers that involve applying computational methods to solve complex problems in engineering, scientific research and applied mathematics.

CSIS: Graduates often pursue roles that blend technical expertise with human-centered information practice, including user experience, information architecture, and information systems management.

BS CS/MS CS Application Dates

Application Opens

December 1

Request References by

December 8

Application Deadline

January 5

BS CS/MS CSEM Application Dates

Application Opens

December 1

Request References by

January 5

Reference Forms Due

January 12

Application Deadline

January 20

BS CS/MIS CS Application Deadline

Application Deadline

March 1

Eligibility

  • Currently pursuing a BS in Computer Science
  • GPA Requirement: 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA (Competitive: 3.5 CS GPA).
  • Core classes completed or CS331 completed, or being completed this academic year.
  • At least 5 semesters in residence

How to Apply

1 Request References

Two references are required and must be from UTCS faculty members. If you’re applying to the CS BS+MS, a third reference from UTCS faculty is optional.

CS BS+MS     CSEM BS+MS

2 Prepare Application Form

3 Prepare Your Statement of Purpose

One to two pages

4 Submit Application Materials

Submit all application materials in a single, merged file. Include your application, Statement of Purpose and resume. A list of publications is optional as well.

How to Earn a
BS+MS in Five Years

 

Undergraduate

Stage One: 

  • Remain an Undergraduate – Stay enrolled in the College of Natural Sciences.
  • Confirm Your Degree Plan – Meet with an academic advisor to ensure you’re on track.
  • Stay on Track – Complete coursework to smoothly transition to graduate studies.
  • Apply to the Graduate School – Submit your application during your senior year.

 

Eligibility for Stage Two

  • GPA Requirement – Minimum 3.0 GPA in undergraduate and graduate CS coursework.
  • Grade Requirement – No grade below B- in any graduate course.
  • GRE Optional – The GRE is currently optional but may be required in the future.
  • Petition Process – Students not meeting requirements can petition the Graduate Office for reconsideration.

 

Graduate

Stage Two: 

  • Become a Graduate Student – Transition to the Graduate School after completing Stage One.
  • Complete MS Coursework – Fulfill the remaining graduate-level requirements.
  • Earn Both Degrees – Receive your BS and MS simultaneously upon completion.