University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The programme combines core advanced topics in computer science with applied electives and a substantial culminating experience. Students typically take advanced courses in algorithms and analysis, operating systems, software engineering, databases and data management, machine learning and artificial intelligence, networks and distributed systems, and security and privacy. Elective options allow specialisation in areas such as data science and analytics, high-performance and parallel computing, embedded systems and robotics, or human–computer interaction.

Students may choose between a thesis option for research-focused work or a project/capstone option for applied development and industry collaboration. Coursework emphasises practical experience through programming assignments, team-based software projects, laboratory work and internship or practicum opportunities. Research seminars and faculty-led labs provide additional exposure to current problems and methods in applied computing.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering or a closely related discipline. Candidates with degrees in other quantitative fields who can demonstrate sufficient programming and foundational computing knowledge may also be considered. Typical application components include:

• A completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution
• Academic transcripts showing solid undergraduate performance (departments commonly reference a minimum GPA standard)
• A statement of purpose outlining background, interests and goals
• Letters of recommendation (usually two to three) from academic or professional referees
• A current résumé or CV summarising relevant experience and projects
• For international applicants, evidence of English proficiency such as TOEFL or IELTS where required

The department may consider additional evidence of preparation such as coding samples, GRE scores if submitted, or interview results. Some applicants may be advised to take prerequisite undergraduate courses if their background lacks key topics (for example, data structures, computer organisation or discrete mathematics).

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for applied technical roles in industry, government and research. Common career paths include software engineer or developer, data scientist or analyst, systems engineer, DevOps or cloud engineer, cybersecurity analyst, and embedded or systems software specialist. The applied focus and project experience also support roles that require rapid prototyping, systems integration and domain-specific computing expertise (for example, geospatial or aerospace computing).

Alumni may also continue to doctoral study if they pursue the thesis option and engage in publishable research with faculty. The combination of technical depth and applied experience is attractive to employers across sectors such as technology companies, defence contractors, health informatics, energy and manufacturing, and regional startups.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a strong balance of research-active faculty and close student–faculty interaction, which benefits students seeking mentorship on applied projects or research. The department maintains hands-on facilities and computing resources that support coursework and applied research, and students often find opportunities to collaborate across disciplines given UND’s strengths in areas like aerospace, remote sensing and engineering.

Smaller class sizes and a supportive graduate community make it easier to secure teaching or research assistantships and to work closely with faculty on funded projects. The programme’s emphasis on applied outcomes, combined with internship and industry-engagement possibilities in the region, helps graduates transition into practical computing roles or continue to advanced research if they choose.