MS in Computational Science

Level Up with a Master of Science (M.S.) in Computational Science from USCB

The Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Computational Science (CSCI) at the University of South Carolina Beaufort provides students with a deep understanding of advanced computational methods and their application in solving real-world problems across various fields, including physical, biological, and engineering sciences.

Students will learn to use mathematical modeling, simulation, and data analysis to tackle complex problems. The program combines coursework in mathematics, computer science, and science with hands-on experience in high performance computing, scientific visualization, and machine learning.

Graduates will be well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, government or industry, and to make impactful contributions to society. With small class sizes and individualized attention from experienced faculty, students in this program will receive a high-quality computing education and be poised for success in the computational science and many related fields of applied computing.

Program Goals

• Offer students advanced training in computing and significant exposure to other science and engineering fields.
• Prepare students for careers in broad areas that require extended proficiency in programming, modeling, computing, and software system management.
• Foster a cutting-edge practice for the process of how Mathematics, Computer Science and other areas of science and engineering would integrate meaningfully and impact our everyday lives and the future of the natural world.
• Provide much needed opportunities for interaction with the local citizenry concerning advancing computer and/or computing technologies through formal classroom instruction, internships, seminars and informal educational opportunities at local events.

program of study

Multiple Paths to Success

Students from many academic backgrounds have earned or are otherwise working towards their MS in Computational Science from the University of South Carolina Beaufort. Those who are best positioned for success in the M.S. CSCI program typically have one of the following academic backgrounds:

• A CS-related* bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Computational Science, Information Science & Technology or Software Engineering.
• A STEM* bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Natural Sciences, Biology or Life Sciences.

*Applicants who lack the necessary prerequisite coursework in mathematics and statistics will be considered for admission but may be required to complete certain undergraduate courses to ensure adequate preparation for completing the MS CSci program requirements.

Accelerated BS-to-MS CSCI Learning Path

Students who are currently pursuing their Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Computational Science at USCB may elect to take up to 12 credits of graduate-level (500-level or higher) CSCI coursework that can potentially transfer to USCB's M.S. CSCI degree program upon acceptance and admission into the graduate program. With proper planning and advisement, students pursuing this accelerated learning path can earn their M.S. CSCI degree in as little as one year following the completion of their Bachelor's degree. 

While many study plan scenarios are possible, it is usually recommended that undergraduate CSCI students interested in pursuing the BS-to-MS accelerated learning path take the following 500-level versions of courses that fulfill existing 400-level B.S. CSCI major requirements that are normally taken in their senior year:

• CSCI B569 - High Performance Computing (taken in place of CSCI B469)
• CSCI B566 - Data Visualization II (taken in place of CSCI B466)
• CSCI B550 - Systems Modeling & Simulation (taken in place of CSCI B450)
• CSCI B570 - Software System Design & Implementation (taken in place of CSCI B470)

Three options for MS degree completion

To earn USCB's Master of Science in Computational Science degree, students choose between these paths, all of which provide enhanced job prospects:

• MS Thesis option:  Students take 24 credits of courses, conduct research with award-winning faculty, and write and defend their thesis. This option pepares the student to gain a high level job or  pursue PhD degree. Students planning to pursue a PhD should choose this option.
• MS Project option: Students take 24 credits of courses, develop a software product, write a technical paper, deliver an oral presentation. Students planning to pursue an EdD degree should choose this option.
• MS Coursework option: take 27 credits of courses, gain research & professional experience via internships (CSCI B699) and/or independent studies (CSCI B599) with program faculty.

Start in Fall or Spring

Prospective students seeking a Master's degree in Computational Science have the option to begin their studies in either the Fall or Spring semester. The duration required to complete the program varies depending on the individual student's prior academic experience, with a minimum time frame of one year.

Research

To view Student Research and Scholarship Day submissions that both Computational Science and Information Science and Technology students presented in 2023, check out the ISAT major page's section featuring them!

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