Studying Computer Science at Syracuse University
Syracuse University appears in our ranking of the Top 30 Best Online Master’s in Computer Science Degree Programs.
Syracuse University offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science that creates graduates who are on the cutting edge of the Information Age. Students become innovative thinkers who are able to design, implement and evaluate computer systems while also gaining knowledge that allows them to analyze problems and propose solutions. Students also learn how to tackle computer and internet security. Courses required for the program include:
- Automata and Computability
- Computer Organization and Programming Systems
- Design of Operating Systems
- Ethical Aspects of Engineering and Computer Science
- Programming Language: Theory and Practice
- Software Specification and Design
Students may combine a major in Computer Science with one or two minors from any of Syracuse’s schools and colleges. They may also pursue a five-year combined degree that allows students to get a computer science degree as well as a major from the College of Arts and Sciences.
Computer science majors can gain hands-on experience through the Engineering and Computer Science Cooperative Education program which provides them with paid work experience. They may also join organizations like Engineers without Borders and Women in Science and Engineering (WISE).
Master of Science in Computer Science
Syracuse University offers a Master of Science in Computer Science that is flexible and has an emphasis on mathematical content. The program is 30 credits and students must receive a “B” or higher in all core courses. The program is available in a traditional campus format or online, and it is available in both a thesis and non-thesis option. Students learn to analyze algorithms and to apply key data structures as well as algorithm design techniques to develop computational solutions. They use formal methods to specify and reason programs and system behavior as well as to apply concepts of abstract machines and protection mechanisms to analyze, design and develop components that meet functional specifications. Core courses in the program include:
- Computer Architecture
- Design and Analysis of Algorithms
- Principles of Operating Systems
- Structured Programming and Formal Methods
Students choose electives that help personalize their degree. Electives include such classes as Introduction to Systems Programming, Data Structures, Computer Organization and Programming Systems, Introduction to Algorithms and Design of Operating Systems.
About Syracuse University
One myth that continues today is that Syracuse University began as Genesee College, founded as Genesee Wesleyan Seminary in Lima. It is true that Genesee received approval to relocate to Syracuse in 1866, but the town of Lima obtained a court injunction blocking the move. Genesee College, which it was renamed in 1850, remained in Lima until it closed its doors in 1875.
Instead, Syracuse University got its start at the Methodist State Convention in Syracuse in 1870. At the convention, a resolution was passed to raise $500,000 to start an institute of higher learning in Syracuse and the Methodist State Convention pledged $100,000 to start the fund. With the funds, the school purchased land in the southeastern part of the city and a charter was established in 1870. While the campus was being constructed, classes were held in the upper floors of the Myers Block in the downtown area of Syracuse. The school moved to its current location in 1873.
Today, there are over 20,000 students attending Syracuse University in both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Syracuse University Accreditation Details
Syracuse University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Accreditation indicates that students are provided a rigorous curriculum that prepares them for leadership roles in their field of study. In addition, the Commission periodically reviews Syracuse University to confirm that they have the resources necessary to achieve their goals and they agree to address any areas that the accrediting agency identifies as needing improvement.
Programs throughout the university are also accredited by industry-specific agencies and organizations. These include such prestigious groups as ABET, National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education, American Psychological Association, Council on Social Work Education, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and the American Bar Association.
Syracuse University Admission Requirements
Students who have not earned college credit after high school graduation are considered first-year students at Syracuse. They must complete an online application and pay an application fee. Students must submit official high school transcripts as well as ACT or SAT scores. A school counselor recommendation is required along with two academic recommendations. Some programs require additional admission requirements, so applicatns are encouraged to speak to an admissions counselor before applying.
Students who have earned college credit after high school graduation must also complete an online application and pay an application fee. They must provide official college transcripts and a College Report from the last school attended must be submitted. Students who have less than 30 college credits must also provide SAT or ACT scores and an official high school transcript.
Graduate students must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university. They must submit an application and pay an application fee. Students must provide official college transcripts from all colleges and universities attended as well as letters of recommendation as required by the program they wish to enter. A personal statement and resume are also required. Some programs require portfolios, writing samples and GRE scores as well.
Syracuse University Tuition and Financial Aid
Full-time undergraduate tuition at Syracuse University is $50,230 per year. On-campus graduate students pay $27,000 per year while online graduate programs are $9,000 per quarter. During each 12-week quarter, students may take up to six credit hours.
Approximately 75 percent of undergraduate students receive some type of financial assistance to attend Syracuse University. Financial aid is available as gift aid in the form of grants and scholarship which do not need to be repaid or as loans which must be repaid. Students may also qualify for work-study programs. In order to qualify for any assistance, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Syracuse University offers students interested in computer science a few options for graduate degrees. The school offers flexible schedules and one degree is available in an online format. This means that students who have work, family or other obligations can attend Syracuse University in order to achieve their higher education goals, allowing them to move into a new career or advance in a current career.
