Computer Science, Accelerated

professor and student in a computer science lab with laptop in foreground

People in a computer lab

Program Information

The faculty and staff of the Computer Science Department are dedicated to training and preparing students to become computer scientists. We believe that computer science has been and will continue to contribute greatly to all disciplines of study and world economy.

Students in the Accelerated Computer Science BS/MS program begin their graduate work as undergraduate Computer Science Honors students. Core courses are taken during the senior year, and count toward both the BS and MS degrees. The MS can then be completed in one year with 36-37 additional credits.

We provide a high quality education to prepare students for productive careers in industry, academia, and government in a nourishing environment for teaching, learning, and research in the theory and applications of computing. This training is offered under the direction of the Graduate School at Western Washington University.

Students in the graduate program in the Computer Science take courses on computer science theory, concepts, and practice and in research projects. Students graduating from our program will have the ability to apply computing knowledge and mathematics to real world problems. They will be able to analyze problems and identify the computing requirements appropriate to its solution. Students will master the design-implementation-evaluation cycle for computer-based systems, processes, components, or programs to meet desired goals. Our program provides students with an understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities. Our excellent preparation for our students will have a profound impact on the future of humanity.

Goals

  • To educate students in core concepts in computer science
  • To provide students with in-depth knowledge, skills, and experiences in computer science
  • To focus on the applied aspects of computer science, especially real-world projects that use core concepts and expert knowledge of computer science
  • To provide students and faculty opportunities to engage in research in computer science
  • To graduate students with a strong, in-depth background in computer science
  • To engage students in high quality research-oriented projects.
  • To prepare students for PhD programs and/or advanced industry opportunities

Application Requirements

  • All applicants must complete the Graduate School's ApplyWeb application and pay the $100 application fee.
  • Within the application you will be prompted to upload an unofficial transcript from each institution attended. If admitted, you will be asked to provide official transcripts.
  • Additional application materials are specified below. Applications will not be forwarded to the department for review until all required materials have been received by the Graduate School.
  • International Applicants: Please review the requirements for information regarding Degree Equivalency, English Language Proficiency and student VISA requirements.

Additional Application Requirements

  • Three (3) Letters of Reference 
  • Statement of Purpose
    • A 300 - 600 word statement of purpose is an opportunity for you to show who you are beyond what is presented in your other application materials such as transcripts and/or C.V. The review committee will use it to evaluate your qualifications, experience, motivation, goals, enthusiasm, and research interests. Specifically, you are encouraged to think about and answer these questions in the essay:
      • Why do you wish to pursue graduate study in CS (or a particular field in CS)?
      • What specific strengths and/or experience do you possess that will help you succeed in this endeavor?
      • How does this graduate degree relate to your future goals?
      • What skills and knowledge you hope to acquire with an MS in CS that will bridge the gap between where you are and where you would like to be.
      • If you are interested in being considered for a Teaching Assistantship, please include relevant experience and information that will aid us in making funding decisions. Please be aware that the review committee will also use this essay to assess your writing ability.