Earn a Respected Master’s Degree in Computer Science Without Pausing Your Career
Ranked third in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, Rice University’s 100% Online Master of Computer Science (MCS) program offers a rigorous, 30-credit-hour, non-thesis pathway for working professionals with or without a tech background. The flexible curriculum blends self-paced learning with live sessions and 1:1 faculty engagement in high-demand areas like AI, machine learning, and software engineering.
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Nationally Recognized
Programs ranked and recognized for academic excellence and impact.
Expert Faculty
Taught by scholars and industry professionals with real-world experience.
Designed for Completion
Most students complete their degree in approximately two years.
Flexible Online Format
Self-paced coursework with scheduled live sessions.
Multiple Start Dates
Begin your program in June, August, or January.
Student Support Built In
Dedicated advising and resources from enrollment through graduation.
Ranked #3, Apply for Free.
Learn more about Rice’s fully online, accredited Master of Computer Science program, designed for working professionals ready to advance, pivot, or lead.
Online Master’s Programs at a Glance
Master of Computer Science
- 10 Courses
- 4 Specializations
- System Specialization
- Machine Learning/AI
- Data Science
- Engineering Leadership
- Application
- Resume/CV
- Statement of Purpose
- 2 Letters of Recommendation
- $85 Application Fee
- GRE
- TOEFL
Hear From Our Students
The coursework I learned at Rice University’s online program was directly transferable to my professional career.
Being an online student… it affords me the opportunity to work while advancing my career.
New AI Specialization Starting Fall 2026
Artificial Intelligence is no longer the future. It's the present. The new Artificial Intelligence Specialization in the Online Master’s of Computer Science program prepares students to build what’s next with Artificial Intelligence. Through new and existing courses students gain experience in machine learning, AI architectures, and real-world applications. This specialization reflects the growing demand for professionals who can build systems that learn, adapt, and scale.
Expanded AI
Curriculum
We've expanded our curriculum to include a dedicated Artificial Intelligence specialization, designed to equip computer scientists with deep technical understanding of how AI systems work. This specialization moves students beyond traditional machine learning to encompass the full landscape of modern AI.
What You'll Learn
Why It
Matters
The field of AI has evolved rapidly, and employers need computer scientists who understand how these systems work. This new specialization provides the technical depth and theoretical grounding that distinguishes AI professionals. Rather than learning to use AI tools, you'll understand the principles, mechanisms, and architectures that build them. This knowledge is what will set you apart in designing, building, and advancing AI systems in today's workforce.
Stand Out as a Rice Graduate
Rice’s strong reputation with some of the world’s best employers improves your chances of getting the job you want. Some of our Computer Science alumni have gone on to work at leading companies including:
