2026-2027 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog [In Progress]
Master of Science in Applied Computer Science
- https://www.gvsu.edu/computing/applied-computer-science-ms-105
- https://www.gvsu.edu/academics/applied-computer-science-ms.htm
Degree Overview
The program consists of 11 three-credit courses (33 credit hours), consisting of core courses, an area of specialization (badge), electives, and a capstone option - an internship, project, or thesis. Classes are offered fully online, in a hybrid format, or in-person in the late afternoon or evening in downtown Grand Rapids.
Curriculum
- Core
- Badge courses
- Electives
- Capstone
International Partnership students: please review your school's agreement and communicate with your Graduate Program Director (GPD) about transferring in courses to GVSU, if applicable.
Core Courses
Students are required to complete one course in three of the following areas (9 total credits):
1. Data Engineering
2. Management of Systems Development
3. Software Engineering
- CIS 518 - Secure Software Engineering (3 credits)
- SE 512 - Requirements Specification (3 credits)
- SE 513 - Software Testing (3 credits)
- SE 522 - Software Architecture and Design (3 credits)
4. Networking
Badge Courses
Students must complete at least one badge (3 courses per badge):
- Badge in Biomedical Informatics
- Badge in Cybersecurity
- Badge in Data Analytics
- Badge in Database Management
- Badge in Distributed Computing
- Badge in Information Systems Management
- Badge in Software Design and Development
- Badge in Software Engineering
- Badge in Web and Mobile Computing
Electives
Students must take enough elective credits to add up to the required 33 credits (9-12 credits).
Capstone
Students must complete either a 3-credit project course, or a 3-credit thesis course taken twice.
OR
An internship option must be discussed with the Graduate Program Director.
Study Plan
Before starting the program, students must have a study plan approved by the Graduate Program Director (GPD). Students are responsible for keeping the plan of study current before the beginning of each semester and getting the GPD's approval for any changes to the plan.