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Computer Science, Accelerated BS & MS

Earn a master in computer science in just 5 years with Seattle University's Fast Track BS & MS program, offering a streamlined application process and time-saving credits.

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About this Program

Fast Track: Start Your Master’s in Computer Science During Your BS Degree

The Fast Track Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program offers an accelerated path for qualified and motivated students to obtain both bachelor's and master's degrees in computer science in five years.

The main benefits of the program are:

  • Some undergraduate credits count for both degrees. The program allows students to take 10 credits of 5000-level electives in their undergraduate years and count them towards both the undergraduate and the graduate degrees.
  • Enjoy a simpler graduate application process. The application process for this program is greatly simplified compared to the graduate admission process. No GRE, recommendations, transcripts or personal statement is required.

Additional Information

Fast Track Master’s in Computer Science at a Glance

Learn how this degree from the Department of Computer Science will contribute to your career goals. Then, explore course requirements and see how impactful a Seattle University degree can be.

Students can customize their curriculum with the general option or choose a specialization in data science or software engineering.

  • Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of core areas and advanced topics in computer science.
  • An ability to design, implement, and evaluate computer-based solutions to meet a given set of requirements.
  • An ability to effectively communicate technical concepts in written and oral form.
  • An ability to make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal, ethical, and social considerations.
  • An ability to understand computer science literature to maintain professional currency.

Data Science Specialization Outcomes

  • Demonstrate a solid foundation in core areas of data science theory and practice including data analysis methodologies, machine learning, and best practice in data visualization and presentation of analysis results and conclusions.
  • Demonstrate theoretical and practical skills in the systems and software engineering needed to process large data sets.

Software Engineering Specialization Outcomes

  • Demonstrate a solid foundation in core areas of software engineering theory and practice including all areas of the software development life cycle.
  • An ability to function effectively on teams to establish goals, plan tasks, meet deadlines, manage risk, and produce deliverables.

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science prepares students for careers as software developers in a variety of domains. 

  • An ability to analyze problems, and to identify and define the requirements in the context of the discipline appropriate to their solutions.
  • An ability to design, implement, and evaluate computer-based solutions to meet a given set of requirements.
  • An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences about technical information.
  • An ability to make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal, ethical, and social considerations.
  • An ability to function effectively on teams to establish goals, plan tasks, meet deadlines, manage risk, and produce deliverables.
  • An ability to apply theory in the design, implementation, and evaluation of computer-based solutions.
  • An ability to reason about and explain computer-based solutions at multiple levels of abstraction.
  • An ability to learn new techniques and tools to adapt to the rapidly changing field of computing.

What You’ll Learn

Learn about the classes you’ll take as a student here.

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Top 25% in Science & Engineering

Seattle University ranks #40 in the nation —U.S. News & World Report, 2023

#40

Best Undergraduate Engineering Program

In the nation —U.S. News & World Report Rankings, 2024

93%

Job Placement Rate

For Seattle University Marketing undergraduates

Hear From Out Alumni

Justin Thoreson

“I have undergone many positive life-altering experiences at Seattle University, and I have my student colleagues and the faculty to thank for that. Through my involvement at Seattle University, I became surrounded by many brilliant, passionate people, and my academic endeavors have equipped me with the exceptional education that I had desired. The greatest revelation I have acquired is that education is monumentally significant, and knowledge itself holds true power.”

MSCS '23

Prepared for Success in Seattle’s Global Tech Industry

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Real-World Projects with Industry Sponsors

All undergraduate students complete a year-long industry-sponsored capstone program. The College of Science and Engineering Project Center has worked with local companies for over three decades, bringing real-world project design and implementation experience to our students.

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Research with Faculty Mentors

Students participating in research project opportunities have a chance to be mentored by faculty, publish their work and present on campus or at conferences. This real-world research prepares you for the best jobs, top graduate programs and postdoctoral training at internationally recognized institutions.

Explore Research
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Inclusive, Global Education

Our Jesuit values mean we see the world through a global, justice-focused lens. Our strong commitment to diversity and small class sizes help create a forward-thinking, close-knit community where everyone can feel at home—and go on to thrive in a global workforce.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Joining the Fast Track

In order to be eligible for fast-track, candidates must:

  • Already be enrolled the BS program in Computer Science
  • Have completed all required 3000-level CPSC courses (with a C or better)
  • Hold a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 as well as a major GPA of 3.0 at the time of application

Students must first declare intent by filling out this form: Fast Track Interest Form.

Students can only declare intent once they meet eligibility requirements. Students may declare intent in the quarter they are finishing the required 3000-level courses.

Students must declare intent by the following deadlines:

  • MSCS - Data Science specialization: April 8th of their junior year
  • Other tracks: October 8th of their senior year

During their senior year, students also need to formally apply to the MSCS program. Deadline: April 8th.

A couple things to keep in mind:

  • Students cannot register for 5000-level CPSC courses unless they have declared intent and have been approved. Students will receive directions on how to register.
  • A maximum of 10 credits can be applied to both the BS and MSCS program. Students need 180 credits to receive their BS degree and at least 36 additional credits for the MSCS degree.

From Our Alumni

Isabel Ovalles

“The blend of instructors and professors that have both industry and academia experience has contributed immensely to my education in the major. I received a well-rounded education that combines conceptual understanding with practical knowledge. I know how to code and why my code works.”

BSCS '23

Our Faculty

All Faculty & Staff

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  • Cell & Molecular Biology, BS

    Major

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  • Computer Science Fundamentals, Certificate

    Professional

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    • Bachelor of Science

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    Major, Minor

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    • Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science

  • Data Science, MS

    Master's

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    • Master of Science

  • Electrical Engineering, BS

    Major, Minor

    As an electrical engineering major, you’ll explore how to design digital and analog electronics, data communication, power and control systems for a brighter future for all.

    • Bachelor of Science

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    Major, Minor

    In the environmental science major, you’ll take a range of applied science courses that support environmental management careers for a more sustainable world.

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  • Computer Science, Accelerated BS & MS

    Major, Master's

    Earn both a BS and MS in computer science in only 5 years. You’ll save time on your advanced degree and enjoy a streamlined graduate application process.

    • Bachelor of Science, Master of Science

  • Marine & Conservation Biology, BS

    Major

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    • Bachelor of Science

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    Master's

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    Major, Minor

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    Major, Minor

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Get in Touch

We’re here to help. For information about Computer Science degrees at Seattle University, contact:

Dr. Eric Larson