The UW–Madison Department of Computer Sciences is a top-ranked department in the United States. UW–Madison ranks as one of the top ten public universities in the country in terms of federal research funds, and it has been listed among the top educational institutions overall since the early 1900s. One important measure of any academic program is the success of its graduates, and our graduates are highly sought after. They have interned at numerous high-tech companies such as Google, Apple, Facebook and Microsoft, and many of them have received job offers after only one year of study.
We believe the learning environment in the department is second to none, making this an unbeatable choice for continuing your education.
Explore our Graduate Programs
Traditional MS/PhD Program
The Department of Computer Sciences offers the Master of Science and a Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Sciences. Research specialty areas include artificial intelligence, computational biology, computer architecture, computer graphics, computer networks, computer security, database systems, human–computer interaction, numerical analysis, optimization, performance analysis, programming languages and compilers, systems research, and theoretical computer sciences.
Professional Master’s Program
The program is designed such that working professionals can complete the program and earn an M.S. degree within two years. Professional Master’s students can take coursework in many areas: artificial intelligence, computational biology, computer architecture, computer graphics, computer networks, computer security, database systems, human–computer interaction, numerical analysis, optimization, performance analysis, programming languages and compilers, systems research, and theoretical computer sciences.
Non-Degree Tracks
Graduate Minor
Graduate students in other PhD programs at UW–Madison who plan to minor in computer sciences should consult with a member of the Computer Sciences Graduate Advising Committee early in their graduate program to ensure acceptance of the minor program. To obtain a doctoral minor, students must earn at least 9 credit hours in computer sciences courses, as well as fulfill other requirements of the minor.
Professional Capstone Certificate Program
If you have obtained a bachelor’s degree in a field other than computer sciences, but now want to learn the fundamentals of computer sciences so that you can apply for software developer jobs, the new Professional Capstone Certificate Program is for you. For example, many of our students are paid by their companies to attend this certificate program, with the understanding that once graduated, the students will start working as software developers for the companies.
User Experience Design Capstone Certificate
Students gain introductory through intermediate user experience skills to plan, design, and assess innovative digital user experiences via digital applications and media. You can complete the certificate entirely online, within one calendar year allowing for balance of your education, work and life.