Graduate Programs
Apply Now
We’re making it easier than ever to apply to UVA Engineering’s graduate programs! We’ve waived GRE requirements for admission and there’s no application fee.
Our Graduate Programs
-
Ph.D. in Computer Science
The Ph.D. degree culminates with the student writing and defending a dissertation based on the result of independent, original research that makes a significant scholarly contribution to the student's field of study.
-
Master of Computer Science
The M.C.S. degree is based on courses, but students have the option and indeed are encouraged to conduct a substantial project.
Differences between the M.S. and M.C.S
The M.S. and M.C.S. degrees share many of the same graduate-level computer science courses. The primary difference is that the M.S. is a research-focused degree requiring a formal thesis, while the M.C.S. is a professional master's degree focused on coursework, with an optional substantial project in place of a thesis.
| Master of Science (M.S.) in Computer Science | Master of Computer Science (M.C.S.) |
| Research-oriented master's degree | Professional/coursework-focused master's degree |
| Requires coursework plus a formal thesis | Primarily based on coursework |
| Students work closely with a faculty advisor on original research | Students may complete a substantial project, but a formal thesis is not required |
| Good preparation for students considering research careers or a Ph.D. | Ideal for students seeking advanced technical knowledge for industry careers |
| Includes thesis research, writing, and defense requirements | Greater emphasis on advanced coursework and practical application |
Computer Engineering Graduate Programs
We also offer graduate degrees in computer engineering in collaboration with the Department of Computer Science.
Graduate Certificate in Cyber-Physical Systems
The graduate certificate in cyber-physical systems (CPS) is designed to recognize the acquisition of CPS knowledge and skills through the completion of targeted courses. The graduate certificate in CPS is available to current graduate students in UVA's School of Engineering and Applied Science and will be awarded at the time of degree conferral.
Resources for Current Students
-
UVA Engineering Graduate Student Resources
Explore our resources for graduate students, including professional development support and ways to get involved at UVA Engineering.
-
Academic Planning
Find timelines, forms and guidance for completing your degree on schedule.
-
Current CS Graduate Students
Find information for new graduate students, program requirements and the graduate student handbook.
Upcoming Events
See All Events-
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PMLocation: In person at Rice Hall room 540, Zoom also available -
Time: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PMLocation: Rice 110
-
Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PMLocation: Rice Hall Room 130 and Davis Commons, University of Virginia
Our Research & Faculty
The computer science department at the University of Virginia attracts federal research support in excess of $6 million annually, with total external research funding of more than $7 million each year. In addition to excelling in traditional research areas within computer science, we believe that many important research challenges lie at the boundary of computer science and other disciplines. With exceptional strength in experimental systems and applied research, our researchers are blazing new trails. d
UVAccelerate
Current UVA undergraduate students can apply to a Master of Engineering (M.E.), Master of Computer Science (M.C.S.), or Master of Materials Science and Engineering (M.M.S.E.) degree program in the third year of their undergraduate studies.
Graduate Program Contacts
Lu Feng
