Value of a Masters in Computer Science from a State School?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the value of obtaining a Master's in Computer Science (MS) from a California State University (CSU) compared to a Bachelor's in Computer Science (BS) from a University of California (UC). The participant highlights their acceptance into several CSU MS programs while awaiting responses from UC for a second Bachelor's degree. They emphasize the importance of experience in programming over formal education but acknowledge that an MS can provide valuable insights into design methodologies. The conversation suggests that while the MS may enhance career prospects, practical programming experience remains paramount.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the differences between Master's and Bachelor's degrees in Computer Science
  • Familiarity with California State University and University of California education systems
  • Knowledge of career paths in software engineering
  • Awareness of the importance of practical programming experience
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the curriculum and outcomes of CSU Computer Science Master's programs
  • Explore the job market for software engineers with MS versus BS degrees
  • Investigate alternative pathways to gain programming experience while studying
  • Learn about the impact of advanced degrees on career advancement in tech
USEFUL FOR

Prospective graduate students, software engineering aspirants, and individuals evaluating the return on investment of advanced degrees in technology fields.

leo255
Messages
57
Reaction score
2
Hey guys,

I got accepted to a few Cal State Computer Science masters (MS) programs (I live 10 minutes from one of them). I also applied to UC Davis and UC Irvine for their BS in Computer Science (would be a 2nd bach. degree, first was Psychology, pre-req's done/am doing at a CC), and am waiting on them. It's a long story as to why I didn't apply to the UC's masters programs. Curious what you guys think. What about market value (BS from the UC's, vs MS from the Cal States)? UC's would be more expensive.

My goal is to work as a software engineer and I really love programming, but at the same time, I value having options, and perhaps being able to do different things, if I should get burned out at some point in my career.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Many people get Comp Sci MS degrees in this manner. Having the MS is a good thing but in the long run its your experience in programming that really matters and helps you along but still the MS will give you a better perspective on the best way or better way to design things.
 

Thread 'Career Prospects (outside of academia)'

For some background, I'm currently a 3rd year physics major with an astro specialization studying in Canada, and as undergraduates are want to do I'm regularly evaluating my career prospects down the road. I also plan on pursuing grad school when I've completed my degree. It might just be my anxiety acting up a little, but with a lot of the government funding drying up for public science research broadly in the US, the 'industry' everyone keeps talking about when questions like this are...
View full post »

Similar threads

Physics Master's degree: Computational Science vs. Artificial Intelligence?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Physics Computer vision engineer looking for career change into physics
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Career advice -- What can I do with a Master's in Theoretical Physics and a Bachelor of Computer Science?
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K
Physics Lost undergrad looking for advice on career path and grad school
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
Other Is physics, computer science, or engineering the right path for me?
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
7K
Engineering Job experience or pursue a Master (Computer Vision)?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Math Career Advice regarding computational science
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Schools Help with shortlisting graduate programs in HEP-PH/TH
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
Other Computer Science Career Path Help
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
How do i get a nuclear engineering degree
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K