Master of Computer Science Program

The Master of Computer Science (MCS) degree is a terminal, professional degree intended for students who will pursue a technical career in the computer industry. The MCS program normally requires three semesters of full-time study.

Course Work

• Students must complete 30 semester hours of course work approved by the department with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.67.  The student works with the department's MCS advisor to develop an approved course plan.
• Students may transfer up to six hours of credit from another University, with approval from the graduate committee.  Transferred courses must be comparable in content and depth to the corresponding course at Rice, must be completed at the time that the student enters the MCS program, and must not have counted toward another degree. 
• Download the MCS degree requirements. 

The MCS program does not normally lead to further graduate study. No financial aid is available from the university or the department for MCS students.

Residency Requirement

MCS students must spend at least one semester in full-time study at Rice. Full-time study is defined as enrollment in nine or more hours of course work.

MCS with Concentration in Bioinformatics

The MCS degree witha concentration in Bioinformatics is for students intending to pursue a technical career in the biotechnology industry. Please click here for the requirements to complete a Master of Computer Science (MCS) with Bioinformatics.

Mailing Address: PO Box 1892, MS-132, Houston TX 77251-1892
Physical Address: 3122 Duncan Hall, 6100 Main Street, Houston TX 77005