Computer and information technology occupations are projected to grow 15% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for other occupations. The Master of Applied Computer Science (MACS) degree is designed to provide a strong, interdisciplinary foundation in computer science for working professionals who come from non-mathematical or non-engineering disciplines and who want to enter the field of computing.
CAPS also offers and Advanced Certificate in Applied Computer Science: a two-part bridge program for those seeking an introduction to computer science without committing to a master’s degree.
Offered in collaboration between the McKelvey School of Engineering's Sever Institute and WashU Continuing & Professional Studies (CAPS), these flexible online programs will help working professionals acquire the skills they need to advance in the field of computer science.
The program focuses on in-demand, practical, and hands-on computational skills including databases, networks, web development, security, systems administration, and software development. Online course delivery provides a flexible educational experience for working adults.
Master of Applied Computer Science
The Master of Applied Computer Science consists of 30 units of graduate coursework.*
Required courses (21 units; these courses are new, and related course numbers are TBD):
- Foundations of Object-Oriented Programming (3 units; Bridge II course*)
- Foundations of Data Engineering (3 units; Bridge II course*)
- Introduction to Cloud Computing (3 units; Bridge II course*)
- Full-Stack Software Development (3 Units)
- Database Programming and Development (3 Units)
- Introduction to Agile Development and Scrum (3 Units)
- Applied Computer Science Practicum (3 Units)
In addition, students are required to take 9 units of elective courses from the following list:
Elective courses (select 9 units; these courses are new, and related course numbers are TBD):
- Modern Data Architecture (3 Units)
- Introduction to Development Security Operations (DevSecOps) (3 Units)
- Web Development (3 Units)
- Introduction to Machine Learning (3 Units)
- Introduction to Cybersecurity (3 Units)
- Applied Research Study (3 Units)
Advanced Certificate in Applied Computer Science
The Advance Certificate in Applied Computer Science consists of 15 units of graduate coursework.*
- CAPS-CS 5000: Foundations of Computer Science and Programming (3 units; Bridge I course*)
- CAPS-CS 5001: Foundations of Foundations of Discrete Math and Structures (3 units; Bridge I course*)
- Foundations of Object-Oriented Programming (This course is new, and its course numbers is TBD. 3 units; Bridge II course*)
- Foundations of Data Engineering (This course is new, and its course numbers is TBD. 3 units; Bridge II course*)
- Introduction to Cloud Computing (This course is new, and its course numbers is TBD. 3 units; Bridge II course*)
These programs are offered fully online. Students entering the U.S. on an F-1 or J-1 Visa must enroll in a program full time. F-1 students are only permitted to enroll in one online course per semester and J-1 students may only enroll in non-credit online courses that do not count toward their degree program. WashU Continuing & Professional Studies (CAPS) cannot guarantee face-to-face enrollment options each semester of full time enrollment, therefore cannot issue an I-20 or DS 2019 to F-1 and J-1 students for this program. If you are an F-1 or J-1 student and wish to enroll in a CAPS program while here on a Visa, please contact our recruitment team to discuss your options for face-to-face program enrollment. F-1 and J-1 students should not enroll in online courses or programs without first consulting the university’s Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS).
Courses for this new program will be developed and listed soon. Visit the CAPS website for up-to-date program course listings.
CAPS-CS 5000 Foundations of Computer Science and Programming
An introduction to software concepts and implementation, emphasizing problem solving through abstraction and decomposition using a contemporary programming language. Introduces processes and algorithms, procedural abstraction, data abstraction, encapsulation, and object-oriented programming. Recursion, iteration, and simple data structures are covered. Concepts and skills are mastered through programming projects, many of which employ graphics to enhance conceptual understanding.
CAPS-CS 5001 Foundations of Discrete Math and Structures
Introduces elements of logic and discrete mathematics that allow reasoning about computational structures and processes. Generally, the areas of discrete structures, probability, and computational models are covered. Topics include propositional and predicate logic; sets, relations, functions and graphs; finite state machines and regular languages; and introduction to discrete probability, expected value, and variance. Concepts will be reinforced and applied through a contemporary programming language assignments.