Academic Programs

Program Overview

The Align MSCS program allows motivated students and professionals who hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline to earn a master’s degree in computer science (CS) from Khoury College of Computer Sciences at Northeastern University. Technology thrives on new, diverse, and unexpected ideas and perspectives. Break into tech to make an impact.

Full-time students typically complete the Align MSCS in 2.5 years. The program begins with a two-semester introductory sequence, which provides the foundational knowledge to ensure that students from non-technical backgrounds have the tools they need to succeed. The program also includes the opportunity for 4-8 months of paid, full-time work experience at a company or organization. Khoury College alone has 700+ partner companies. 

Increase your impact in areas that interest you

The Align MSCS program gives you graduate-level training so you can apply computer science in your areas of expertise—or explore an entirely new career. Through Align, you’ll build skills in the core areas of CS. Then you’ll get to explore the junctions of CS and law, music, biology, business, physics, education, biomedical science, language, or whatever interests you through projects as well as co-op and internship opportunities.

Learn about research at Northeastern

Hold a co-op or internship in an industry-preferred program

Khoury College can help connect you with co-op, internship, and project opportunities with the College’s 700+ industry partners. Align MSCS helps prepare you to meet the “preferred” qualifications for job postings with top companies. Many companies offer co-op students full-time employment upon completion of their degree.

Amazon job postings for full time internships have included the following statement under Preferred Qualifications: “Currently enrolled in the Align Master of Science in Computer Science program at Northeastern University at time of application.”

Tuition and Aid

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2024-2025 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Find detailed information on tuition and fees from Student Financial Services.

Finance Your Education

We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships. Learn more from Student Financial Services.

Curriculum

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

Experiential Learning

Co-op makes the Northeastern graduate education richer and more meaningful. It provides master’s students with up to 12 months of professional experience that helps them develop the knowledge, awareness, perspective, and confidence to develop rich careers. In addition to the esteemed faculty, many students enroll in the master’s programs largely because of the successful co-op program.

Graduate students typically have an experiential work opportunity following their second semester. This could be a six- to eight-month co-op or a three- to four-month summer internship. Those who initially experience co-op may have the opportunity to seek an internship for the following summer, or vice versa.Student participation in experiential education provides enhanced:

• Learning, technical expertise, and occupational knowledge
• Confidence, maturity, and self-knowledge
• Job-seeking and job-success skills
• Networking opportunities within your desired career path

Northeastern’s co-op program is based on a unique educational strategy that recognizes that classroom learning only provides some of the skills students will need to succeed in their professional lives. Our administration, faculty, and staff are dedicated to the university’s mission to “educate students for a life of fulfillment and accomplishment.” Co-op is closely integrated with our course curriculum and our advising system. The team of graduate co-op faculty within the Khoury College of Computer Sciences provides support for students in preparing for and succeeding in their co-ops.

These multiple connections make co-op at Northeastern an avenue to intellectual and personal growth: adding depth to classroom studies, providing exposure to career paths and opportunities, and developing in students a deeper understanding that leads to success in today’s world.

Admission Dates

Applicants must submit the online application and all required admission materials no later than the stated deadlines to be considered for admission. Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis.

Fall

Deadline for domestic applicants:	August 1
Deadline for international applicants:	April 15

How to Apply

Learn more about Khoury College’s admissions process and required materials.

Request Information

Complete the form below and our team will connect with you to discuss your questions and options.