Guide to Master's in Computer Programming Degrees
Updated July 10, 2024
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Master's in computer programming degrees are graduate-level credentials focused on strengthening programming skills, including knowledge of common programming languages. In these academic programs, you can learn to build and maintain web applications, use cloud computing, or conduct object-oriented programming.
Though all graduate degrees in computer programming build on foundational skills covered in bachelor's programs, not every school requires applicants to hold a bachelor's degree in computer science. Some programs accept learners from other backgrounds as long as these enrollees complete prerequisite coursework.
Use this guide to learn more about our list of top master's in computer programming degrees as well as information about paying for your degree and what you can do after graduation.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Why Go to Graduate School for Computer Programming?
Computer programming dates back to the 1840s, when a British woman named Ada Lovelace created the first machine algorithm. Programming grew in importance when Alan Turing invented the idea for a universal machine that could run programs. As the 20th century progressed, researchers created programming languages and the modern programming field was born.
Today, more than 26 million people around the world work in computer development, according to research from the Evans Data Corporation. This includes software developers, engineers, technical writers, CAD programmers, statisticians, and mathematicians. Programming remains relevant as the world grows increasingly reliant on technology.
While basic programming education is easily accessible, advanced programming skills can be challenging to master. Evolving programming languages and artificial intelligence robots constantly change the face of the industry. New programmers need to be aware of the latest advancements in the field while also executing consistently user-centered design.
A master's degree in computer programming can position you for an advanced technical career or an IT leadership role. In the 2021-22 school year, U.S. colleges and universities conferred 51,338 computer science and related graduate degrees, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). This large number of students reflects the demand for skilled professionals in the field.
Benefits of earning a computer programming degree include:
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Salary Increase: Payscale reports that professionals with a master's degree in computer programming earned an average annual salary of $101,000 — almost $20,000 more per year than people with just a bachelor's degree in the field. -
Professional Niche: If you have generalized computer science or information technology experience, a master's degree in computer programming can help you pursue niche jobs. By specializing your expertise, you can increase your earning potential and your marketability as a candidate for lucrative jobs. -
Career Transition: A master's degree can also help you switch careers. If you have no background in computer science, you may need to complete prerequisite courses to gain admission to a graduate program in computer programming.
Jobs for Master's in Computer Programming Graduates
Senior Software Engineer
Senior software engineers guide and review the products their junior counterparts build. These professionals can design software independently and lead a team of IT experts, managing priorities and deadlines for other workers and the team overall. They need technical knowledge of Javascript, HTML, and CSS as well as strong leadership and communication skills.
- Required Education: Bachelor's degree
- Average Annual Salary: $127,660
Oracle Developer
Oracle developers design, modify, and test Oracle databases. These professionals usually need a bachelor's in computer programming or computer science, Oracle-specific certification, and expertise in computer languages such as Java and SQL.
- Required Education: Bachelor's degree
- Average Annual Salary: $102,090
Technical Architect
Technical architects build solutions that improve user experience, data security, or IT frameworks. In addition to a solid academic background in computer science, technical architects need to know programming languages such as JavaScript, SQL, .NET, and C. They may also need industry certifications like Microsoft's certified architect credential.
- Required Education: Bachelor's degree
- Average Annual Salary: $127,680
Software Engineering Manager
Software engineering managers build and manage teams of computer engineers. Their teams create new software products and maintain existing applications and programs. These professionals need excellent organizational skills and advanced technological knowledge.
- Required Education: Bachelor's degree
- Average Annual Salary: $149,740
Software Engineering Director
Software engineering directors lead software-related projects for their companies. They can manage teams of IT professionals, design software, analyze current systems, evaluate code reviews, and make recommendations for changes. These professionals need expertise in programming languages and strong analytical skills.
- Required Education: Bachelor's degree
- Average Annual Salary: $164,270
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What to Expect From Computer Programming Graduate Programs
A master's degree in computer programming offers advanced education in computer science with an emphasis in software engineering and programming languages. Prospective students usually need a background in computer languages, discrete math, and basic computer science theory. These degrees usually require 30-36 credits and take 1-2 years.
Like most master's degrees, these programs often conclude with a thesis, capstone, or other project. Typically, these culminating experiences ask you to produce original research or demonstrate your ability to synthesize knowledge from your classes.
Admission Requirements
Every school's admission requirements vary. For example, some universities emphasize your academic background, while others value career experience more. Many programs ask for application materials like:
- A bachelor's degree in computer programming, computer science, or a related field
- Minimum GPA (usually between 2.5-3.5)
- GRE or GMAT scores
- Letters of recommendation
- A personal statement
- An application fee
- Prerequisite courses such as
- Concepts of programming
- Discrete mathematics
- Probability and logic
Degree and Specialization Options
Many master's degrees in computer programming are actually computer science master's degrees with a specialization in programming. Typically, these programs award graduates a master of science (MS) or master of business administration (MBA) degree.
The MS in computer programming focuses on the technical aspects of computer programming, including computer science theory and application. The MBA is a business degree that emphasizes the application of computer programming in corporate leadership contexts.
At some schools, you may be able to earn a joint MBA/MS in computer science and concentrate your coursework in programming.
Popular Programming Courses
Every university has a different curriculum for its master's in computer programming, but most schools offer courses in general computer science, big data, and linguistics. The classes below are popular graduate-level programming classes.
- Android Programming: Students in this course learn how to build Android applications using software such as the Jetpack libraries. Typically, enrollees need fundamental knowledge of software engineering and mobile app development.
- Implementation of Programming Languages: This class explores the structure and implementation of programming languages. Topics include code generation; the grammar-language-automaton triad; and lexing, parsing, and semantic analysis.
- Programming in Scala for Big Data Systems: Students in this course learn Scala, a big data language that supports multiple programming paradigms. The curriculum also explores how to develop batch processing applications in Apache Spark.
- Computing in Python: This class covers all elements of computing in Python, including procedural programming, control structures, data structures, and algorithms.
- Computing in Java: Students learn the Java programming language, including its syntax, structure, and troubleshooting.
Popular Programming Languages
How Much Will a Master's in Computer Programming Cost?
According to 2020 NCES data, annual tuition for master's degrees in the computer and information sciences field averaged $16,750. Overall, tuition for programs can range from from less than $10,000 to nearly $70,000. Many factors determine price, including a school's prestige and its public or private status. Other costs, such as technology fees, can also increase the total price.
Students can access financial aid options like scholarships, fellowships, grants, and student loans. Other ways of paying for a computer science degree include employer reimbursements, personal savings, and vocational rehabilitation for veterans.
Choosing the Right Computer Programming Master's Degree
Selecting the right master's degree in computer programming means considering multiple factors. In addition to cost and admissions requirements, pay attention to accreditation. Institutionally accredited schools meet standards of academic excellence, so attending one signifies the degree you earn holds value. Other factors to consider include:
- Location: What schools are near you? If you pursue an online program, research in-person requirements like orientations or weekend residencies.
- Program Length: Programming master's degrees usually take 1-2 years for full-time learners and 2-4 years for part-time learners. Research enrollment options to ensure you can take classes at a pace that fits your needs.
- Earning Potential: Schools may track how many graduates find jobs in the year after they earn their degree and how much they make in these roles. Ask for this data to understand the value this program's degree has in the marketplace.
- Future Education Opportunities: If you intend to pursue a doctorate, how well does the program prepare you for this endeavor? Does the school offer a doctoral degree in the field?
Should You Study Computer Programming Online?
Online learning has grown in popularity: In 2019, 42% of graduate students took at least one online course, but by 2021, that number had risen to 56%, according to NCES data. Distance education is also becoming more reputable — a 2019 study from the Center for the Future of Higher Education & Talent Strategy found that 61% of HR leaders believed that online credentials were equal to those earned in person, a percentage that the study reports has been growing in the past decade.
Because of computer programming's intrinsic connection with technology, computer programming online degree programs may be well-suited to prepare you for your future career. However, hybrid or in-person degrees can be the preferred choice for students who need more structured learning and opportunities to connect to peers and instructors.
More Paths to Learn Computer Programming
More FAQ About Master's in Computer Programming
Can you get a master's in programming degree?
Most programming degrees are actually master's degrees in computer science or computer engineering with a concentration in programming or a related field. You may also find computer science master's degrees that offer courses in programming but no formal concentration in this subfield.
What can you do with a master's degree in computer programming?
With a master's degree in computer programming, you can pursue advanced technical roles, including technology leadership positions. These jobs include senior software engineer, technical architect, programming analyst, and Oracle developer. Depending on experience, you may also qualify for a management role like software engineering director or chief technology officer.
Is a master's in computer programming worth it?
Payscale data reveals workers with a computer science graduate degree that emphasizes programming earn an average of $101,000 per year, while their counterparts with only a bachelor's degree make $83,000. In the 2020 school year, the average annual tuition for master's degrees in this field was $16,750, according to NCES data. Thus, completing a computer programming master's can offer a positive return on investment and lead to higher earning potential.
Do programmers need a master's degree?
You can be a computer programmer by earning a bachelor's degree, attending a programming bootcamp, or developing a strong coding portfolio. A master's degree can help you qualify for advanced roles, including management-level positions.
The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by ComputerScience.org. Page last reviewed June 26, 2024.
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