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MSc Computer Science or Master of Science in Computer Science is a 2-year degree program which caters to the needs of people interested in the field of computers. This 2-year course is considered one of the most sought after degrees in India in terms of personal growth and career growth opportunities.
Know More About Computer Science Courses
There are several colleges across the country that offer MSc Computer Science to which admission is offered through the entrance test mechanism. and some of the top colleges are Loyola College, St. Xavier’s College, Fergusson College, Christ University, etc.
Candidates who wish to pursue MSc Computer Science are required to pass a bachelor’s degree with 50% or more in the domain of Computer Science and Mathematics like BSc Computer Science and other courses. People with a background in other numerate or computing-related fields can also apply for the course.
| College Name | Location | Admission Process | Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Oxford College of Science | Bangalore | Entrance Exam | 50,000 |
| St Xaviers College | Kolkata | Entrance Exam | 98,500 |
| Osmania University College for Women | Hyderabad | Entrance Exam | 36,560 |
| Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies | Chennai | Entrance Exam | 44,800 |
| University of Lucknow | Lucknow | Entrance Exam | 30,000 |
MSc Computer Science syllabus (Syllabus Hashlinking) is divided into two years and each year of study comprises two semesters. Some of the major MSc Computer Science subjects are Advanced Programming Language, Operating System, Data Structures using C, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Organisation, and Architecture, Computer Graphics, Microprocessor and Applications, Advanced Computer Networks, System Software, Data Networking.
One can also opt for this course through distance mode of education. IGNOU, Alagappa University, etc, are some of the top universities offering MSc Computer Science through distance.
| Key Highlights of MSc Computer Science | |
|---|---|
| MSc Computer Science Full-Form | Master of Science in Computer Science |
| Course Duration | 2-Years |
| Admission Process | Entrance Exam Based |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree with 50% in Computer Science, Mathematics and other related fields |
| Average Course Fee | INR 40,000 to 3 Lakhs |
| Average Salary Offered | INR 5-12 Lakhs per annum |
| Job Profiles | Website Developer, App Developer, Technical Assistant, Lab Assistant, IOS Developer, etc. |
| Top Recruiters | Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited, Dell, Intel, HCl, Accenture, Oracle, Wipro, etc. |
MSc Computer Science Eligibility
A candidate must qualify the following eligibility criteria in order to pursue MSc Computer Science in India:
- Candidates must have passed the BSc.Computer Science Hons degree program or BSc. Applied Physical Sciences with Mathematics and Computer Science from a recognized university/college with at least 50% (relaxation for reserved category candidates is provided) of the marks.
- Candidates who have completed BSc Mathematical Sciences with Mathematics and Computer Science are also eligible to apply.
- Most of the institutes offer admissions based on the score obtained in the entrance test to shortlist students for admission. Therefore, candidates seeking admission in such institutes are required to qualify the respective entrance exam by securing minimum qualifying marks.
MSc Computer Science Admission Process
Admission to MSc Computer Science in India is granted mostly through entrance examination based mechanisms. Colleges like Loyola College, St. Xavier’s College, Mithibai College of Arts, and more rely on self-conducted entrance tests in order to shortlist students for admission.
Given below is a brief description of the admission process through entrances.
- In the case of entrance-based selection, students should check eligibility and apply for such exams.
- Students have to qualify for the respective exam of a college/university in order to get admission to the course.
- After the conduction of the test, the college or university declares the result and releases a merit list of finally shortlisted candidates.
- Shortlisted students then need to complete the admission process.
- Allotment of seats to the candidate is the final step. Post which the candidate is asked to deposit the fee for the course and register for the respective academic year.
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MSc Computer Science Entrance Exams
Some of the popular MSc Computer Science entrance exams are as follows:
| Exam Name | Overview | Application Period | Exam Date* | Exam Mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JNUEE | JNUEE is conducted by the Jawaharlal Nehru University in order to shortlist students for various postgraduate degree programs. | March 2- June 30, 2020 | To be announced | Online |
| DUET | DUET is conducted by the University of Delhi in order to shortlist students for various postgraduate degree programs. One should know that Delhi university offers 50% seats on merit basis, rest 50% are filled on the basis of the scores obtained by students in the entrance test. | June 20, 2020, to July 18, 2020 | To be announced | Online |
| IPU CET | This is a university-level of entrance exams conducted by Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University. It is an online exam for various UG and PG admissions. | March 3- July 20, 2020 | To be announced | Online |
| OUCET | OUCET is conducted by Osmania university in order to shortlist students for various postgraduate degree programs. | 4th week of April- 4th week of June 2020 | 2nd week of July 2020 | Offline |
| BITSAT | BITSAT is a national level exam conducted by BITS Pilani in order to shortlist students for various postgraduate programs. | January 11, 2020-May 11, 2020 (Till 5:00 PM) | August 6 to 10, 2020 | Online |
*The exam dates for the above few exams are not yet announced due to the COVID 19 pandemic and shall be notified soon.
MSc Computer Science Syllabus
The MSc Computer Science curriculum is a mix of several theory exams, assignments, practical, laboratory work, and numerous project works. The assessment is carried out on both theory and practical papers.
MSc Computer Science syllabus for the second year comprises a total of four MSc Computer Science subjects which includes minor projects as well.
For better knowledge of students, a detailed yearly MSc Computer Science syllabus structure is given below.
| Year 1 | Year 2 |
|---|---|
| Advanced Programming Language | Operating System |
| Data Structures using C | Introduction to Artificial Intelligence |
| Computer Organisation and Architecture | Computer Graphics |
| Microprocessor and Applications | Advanced Computer Networks |
| System Software | Data Networking |
| Language Structure | System Analysis and Design |
| File Organisation and DBMS | Computational Intelligence |
| Design and Analysis of Algorithms | Database Systems & Implementation |
| Information Security | Digital Image Processing & Multi-media |
| Neural Networks | Software Quality Assurance & Testing |
| Machine Learning | Embedded Systems |
| Cryptography | Modeling and Simulation |
In the final year of the course, students are also required to complete a dissertation and a project on their major MSc Computer Science subjects.
MSc Computer Science Top Colleges
A significant number of colleges across the country offer MSc Computer Science courses to candidates who have passed their graduation in any relevant field.
The table given below lists some of the Top MSc Computer science colleges in India.
| College/University Name | Location | Average Annual Fees (INR) | Average Annual Package (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loyola College | Chennai | INR 1.9 Lakhs | INR 8-9 Lakhs |
| St. Xavier’s College | Kolkata | INR 98,000 | INR 7.5-8 Lakhs |
| Fergusson College | Pune | INR 65,955 | INR 4-5 Lakhs |
| Christ University | Bangalore | INR 1.1 Lakhs | INR 6-8 Lakhs |
| Mithibai College of Arts | Mumbai | INR 35,921 | INR 3.5-5 Lakhs |
| Ramnarain Ruia Autonomous College | Mumbai | INR 34,495 | INR 3-4 Lakhs |
| The Oxford College of Science | Bangalore | INR 50,000 | INR 3-6 Lakhs |
| Chandigarh University | Chandigarh | INR 1.06 Lakhs | INR 4.5-6 Lakhs |
| St Francis College For Women | Hyderabad | INR 23,755 | INR 2.5-4 Lakhs |
| Osmania University College For Women | Hyderabad | INR 35,560 | INR 3.8-5.5 Lakhs |
There are few colleges which offer MSc Computer Science distance education as well.
- The minimum duration required to complete this course from distance is 2 years and the maximum duration of the same is 5 years.
- In order to pursue this course at distance, one needs to have a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
- The general method of admission to MSc Computer Science distance education offered on the basis of merit.
- MSc Computer Science distance education fees range from INR 12,000 to 60,000 average annually.
- There is no age limit set for the aspirants eager to pursue this course from distance.
Some of these colleges are mentioned below.
| College name | Location | Average Annual Fee (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) | Delhi | 33, 600 |
| Alagappa university | Tamil Nadu | 55,000 |
| Madurai Kamaraj university | Madurai | 12,750 |
Source: Colleges and Universities Official Websites
Why Study MSc Computer Science?
Some of the advantages of doing an MSc Computer Science program are:
- One reason to earn a MSc Computer Science is because it can provide a foundation in the field of technology research and development. Jobs in the computer science industry is common in a company's information technology department, a non-profit entity or a government agency
- A master's degree program may provide a career boost by enabling professionals to expand their expertise in the field for individuals already working in the information technology sector.
- Completing Masters helps to prepare for future entrance into a Ph.D. program. In these programs, students can take advanced courses and gain the research skills that they need to prepare for successful admission into a Ph.D. program.
MSc Computer Science Specialisations
Some of the specialisations for MSc Computer Science are:
| Artificial Intelligence | Artificial intelligence (AI) enables computers to perform human tasks such as visual perception,cognitive decision making, pattern recognition and voice recognition |
| Machine Learning | Machine Learning enables algorithms to make predictions based on pattern recognition from a given dataset so that it can be used for making informed decisions in business, social, economic or healthcare or political. |
| Data Science | Data Science is relevant to virtually all industries that matter right now; so, proficient and knowledgeable Data Science Master’s degree graduates will be invaluable assets to employers in any industry they want to work in. |
| Human Computer Interaction | The HCI industry includes researchers from psychological and computer science backgrounds interested in evaluating their theories of human or system behavior and designers and engineers from industrial and commercial backgrounds who aspire to build faster and more economical products. |
MSc Computer Science Jobs and Career Options
MSc Computer Science graduates have plenty of options to choose from in terms of their careers. There are various MSc Computer Science jobs available for these graduates and some of those include Website Developer, App Developer, Technical Assistant, Lab Assistants, iOS Developer, system administrator, software programmer, DataBase Manager, etc
With an average MSc Computer Science salary ranging from INR 5 to 12 LPA, some of the companies which recruit MSc Computer Science graduates are :
- Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited
- Dell
- Intel
- HCl
- Accenture
- Oracle
- Wipro
The table given below lists some of the most popular MSc Computer Science jobs available with their respective descriptioN and packages offered.
| Job profile | Job description | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Website Developer | The main job of a Website Developer is to design and create websites. They are also required to keep a check on the website's technical aspects, like, how much speed and traffic the website can hold. | INR 6.5 Lakhs |
| App Developer | An App developer develops a mobile application for various operating systems like Android, Blackberry, iOS. They’re also required to look after its technical aspects. | INR 7 Lakhs |
| Technical Assistant | A Technical Assistant is responsible for monitoring and maintaining the computer systems and networks of an organization. They may also look after the configuration of the computer systems, diagnose hardware and software faults, and solve the various technical and application problems that might arrive at any point in time. | INR 5 Lakhs |
| Lab Assistants | A Lab Assistant is a person employed by schools or colleges for practical instructions on computer-related topics. | INR 4.5 Lakhs |
| IOS Developer | An iOS Developer designs and builds advanced applications for the IOS platform. He/She may also collaborate with cross-functional teams to define, design, and deliver new features as per the requirement. | INR 8 Lakhs |
| Application coder | An application coder is responsible for coding programs that form the base of any new application. | INR 6 Lakhs |
The graph given below shows the current salary trend for MSc Computer Science graduates employed in the industry.
Source: Payscale
An MSc Computer Science degree mostly helps in acquiring a job position in the IT sector. This sector has been one of the top employment sectors in India in the past and continues to do so. Current trends show that the sector will grow at the rate of 12-15% annually. With an expansion in the sector, the employment opportunities are also expected to increase. This forecasts a good career prospect for MSc Computer Science.
Apart from making a career in the above-mentioned sectors, students can pursue higher education in the same field. Two of the most chosen courses after MSc Computer Science are M.Phil and Ph.D. in Computer Science.
- M.Phil in Computer Science: M.Phil Computer Science is a 1-year post-graduate program, which is aimed at developing skilled professionals and contributing to the IT sector. The basic eligibility of the course is a postgraduate degree in Computer Science from a recognized university.
- Ph.D. in Computer Science: Ph.D. in Computer Science is a 3 to 5 years long doctorate level degree in the area of computer science and the minimum eligibility criterion for admission is 55% marks in M.Phil or any other equivalent level subject.
Yet another plan can constitute the idea of pursuing an MS in computer science from a good foreign university. Some of the top universities offering the course are The University of British Columbia, Canada, University of Alberta, Canada, Harvard University, USA.
MSc Computer Science Course comparison
The following table shows the comparison made between MSc Computer Science vs MCA on various major parameters:
| Parameters | MSc Computer Science | MCA |
|---|---|---|
| Qualification | Master of Science in computer science | Master of Computer Application |
| Course overview | MSc Computer Science is a postgraduate specialization course of science. The course deals with various theoretical and practical aspects of computer science. | MCA or Master of computer application is a professional course that deals and majorly focuses on the application based approaches of computers. |
| Duration | 2 years | 2 years |
| Examination Type | Semester based | Semester |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics and other related fields | Minimum 50-60% in BCA or a related course with Mathematics in Class 12 as a compulsory subject |
| Admission Process | Entrance exam based | Direct Admission or Through Entrance Exams |
| Average annual fees | INR 40,000 to 3,00,000 | INR 1,00,000 to 4,00,000 |
| Colleges | Loyola College, Chennai, Christ university, Banglore, St Xavier's College, Kolkata, etc | Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha university, National institute of technology, Amity university |
| Average salary offered | INR 5-12 LPA | INR 6-13 LPA |
| Job Roles | Website Developer, App Developer, Technical Assistant, Lab Assistant, IOS Developer etc | Software Developer, Web Developer, System Analyst, Data Analyst, Troubleshooter, Technical Writer, System Administrator, etc. |
Source: University Websites and Payscale
MSc Computer Science: FAQs
Ques. What are the eligibility criteria, one must fulfil in order to pursue MSc Computer Science?
Ques. How much does it cost to pursue an MSc Computer Science degree program?
Ques. Which are some of the most popular colleges offering MSc Computer Science?
Ques. What are some of the highly paid MSc Computer Science jobs?
Ques. What are some of the top recruiting companies of MSc Computer Science graduates?
Ques. Can I pursue an MSc Computer Science degree program through distance learning mode?
Ques. What type of questions are asked in MSc Computer Science entrance exams?
Ques. Is there any delay in the admission process of MSc Computer Science 2020 due to COVID 19?
Ques. What is the update of the JNUEE examination due to the outbreak of COVID 19?
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