UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Computer Science - Plan II: Comprehensive Exam, Standard Option
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The Master of Science (M.S.) program in Computer Science or Computer Engineering at UC San Diego offers a Plan II option focused on a comprehensive examination. This program requires the completion of 40 units of coursework. Students will engage in a rigorous curriculum designed to deepen their expertise in specialized areas of computer science and engineering, culminating in a comprehensive exam to demonstrate mastery of the subject matter.
Curriculum
The curriculum is structured around breadth and depth requirements. Students must complete 12 units of breadth courses, ensuring a foundational understanding across different areas of computer science. Following this, 12 units must be completed within a chosen depth area, allowing for specialization. All courses must be taken for a letter grade and passed with a grade of B- or higher.
- Year 1 & 2
- Breadth Courses (12 units)
- Depth Courses (12 units)
- Additional Courses (16 units)
Careers
Graduates of UC San Diego's computer science programs are well-prepared for advanced roles in academia and industry.
- Industry positions
- Academic roles
Frequently asked questions
- What are the total unit requirements for the M.S. in Computer Science - Plan II program?
- The Master of Science (M.S.) program in Computer Science requires the completion of 40 units of coursework.
- What is the structure of the M.S. Computer Science curriculum?
- The curriculum includes 12 units of breadth courses, 12 units within a chosen depth area for specialization, and an additional 16 units of coursework. All courses must be taken for a letter grade and passed with a B- or higher.
- What are the estimated living costs for graduate students at UC San Diego?
- Estimated annual living expenses for graduate students living off-campus are approximately $31,548, or $31,056 for on-campus living. These are estimates and may vary.
- What are the tuition and fees for international students in the M.S. Computer Science program?
- Tuition and fees are subject to change. Non-California Resident Supplemental Tuition was $12,245 for the 2026-27 academic year as an example, with additional mandatory systemwide tuition, campus fees, and health insurance as extra costs. Further verification is required for exact M.S. Computer Science program costs.
- How do I apply to the M.S. Computer Science program?
- You should consult the UC San Diego Graduate Admissions website for detailed procedures. This involves reviewing program requirements, preparing materials like transcripts and letters of recommendation, and submitting the online application.
- What are the career prospects after completing the M.S. in Computer Science?
- Graduates are well-prepared for advanced roles in industry positions and academic roles.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA relevant bachelor's degree is required. Specific GPA and prerequisite coursework details are not provided on the program page.
For breadth requirements, Computer Science majors must take one course from each of the three areas: Theory, Systems, and Applications. Computer Engineering majors must take two courses from the Systems area and one from either Theory or Applications. All breadth and depth courses must be taken for a letter grade and completed with a grade of B- or higher.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition and fees for graduate students vary. For the Rady School's Full-Time MBA program (as an example of graduate costs), Non-California Resident Supplemental Tuition was $12,245 for the 2026-27 academic year. Mandatory Systemwide Tuition and Fees, Student Services Fees, Campus-based Fees, and the Student Health Insurance Plan (UC SHIP) are additional costs.
Tuition (home)Tuition and fees for graduate students vary. For the Rady School's Full-Time MBA program (as an example of graduate costs), California Residents' UC Mandatory Systemwide Tuition and Fees were $13,722, with additional campus and service fees, for the 2026-27 academic year.
LivingEstimated annual living expenses (food & housing) for graduate students living off-campus are approximately $31,548, or $31,056 for on-campus living. These are estimates and may vary.
Tuition and fees are subject to change by the University of California. Some or all instruction may be delivered remotely, but tuition and fees remain the same. The provided fee structure is illustrative based on the Rady School's Full-Time MBA program and may not directly reflect the M.S. Computer Science program costs, which require further verification.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the specific M.S. Computer Science Plan II requirements, including breadth and depth specializations.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online graduate application through the UC San Diego Graduate Admissions portal.
4. Pay Application FeePay the required application fee. Fee waivers may be available for eligible applicants.
5. Monitor Application StatusTrack the status of your application and respond to any requests for additional information.
Frequently asked questions
What are the total unit requirements for the M.S. in Computer Science - Plan II program?
+
The Master of Science (M.S.) program in Computer Science requires the completion of 40 units of coursework.
What is the structure of the M.S. Computer Science curriculum?
+
The curriculum includes 12 units of breadth courses, 12 units within a chosen depth area for specialization, and an additional 16 units of coursework. All courses must be taken for a letter grade and passed with a B- or higher.
What are the estimated living costs for graduate students at UC San Diego?
+
Estimated annual living expenses for graduate students living off-campus are approximately $31,548, or $31,056 for on-campus living. These are estimates and may vary.
What are the tuition and fees for international students in the M.S. Computer Science program?
+
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Non-California Resident Supplemental Tuition was $12,245 for the 2026-27 academic year as an example, with additional mandatory systemwide tuition, campus fees, and health insurance as extra costs. Further verification is required for exact M.S. Computer Science program costs.
How do I apply to the M.S. Computer Science program?
+
You should consult the UC San Diego Graduate Admissions website for detailed procedures. This involves reviewing program requirements, preparing materials like transcripts and letters of recommendation, and submitting the online application.
What are the career prospects after completing the M.S. in Computer Science?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for advanced roles in industry positions and academic roles.