FAQ - The Degree Program

What is the least amount of time required to get through the graduate program in computer science?

The answer depends on how many courses you can take each semester. For example, if you have a full-time job, you probably can take one or two courses per semester. If that is the case, then five semesters are needed to complete the 30 credit hour program.

Is there a particular order of courses to the program? Are there courses that I should take before others?

If any transition courses are required, these must be completed prior to degree program courses. Next, give highest priority to completing the core courses, followed by the track courses. Be certain that prerequisites are completed before registering for each course.

What is the plan of study?

Once the transition courses are completed (if required), consult with your advisor and set up a plan of study. This is a document that indicates which courses you will take to complete your degree, and when you plan to take them. This allows the advisor to verify the courses and the sequence in which you plan to take them is acceptable, and allows you to know precisely what is required to complete your degree. The plan of study must be on file with the graduate advisor prior to your second semester in the degree program.

What factors should I consider in preparing a plan of study?

You should take all the core courses and three courses from a track. Depending on which program you select (thesis, project, or coursework), you may need to take some additional courses. At least one-half the hours of non-thesis coursework on a plan of study should be in courses which are restricted to graduate students only (that is, their numbers end in “0”).

How do I decide which degree program I should select (thesis, project, or coursework)?

If you do not plan to pursue a doctoral degree in computer science, normally taking 36 credit hours of course work would be an appropriate choice (which allows you to take a wide range of courses). If you are interested in more academic work that would lead to a doctoral degree, then the thesis approach would be most appropriate. If you are interested in applying your knowledge to some practical applications, then the project option may be the best choice.

I started a similar graduate program at another school. Will any of those hours transfer to the master’s degree in computer science at UNO?

Up to one-third of the course work required for a graduate degree may be accepted from an accredited institution other than a unit of the University of Nebraska when the transfer is supported by your advisor and the graduate program committee. Final approval will be made by the UNO Dean for Graduate Studies. Grades received in courses for transfer of credit must be the equivalent of “B” or higher. Consult the graduate catalog for further requirements.

What is the difference between a thesis and a project?

A thesis is a research effort that should make some theoretical contribution to the discipline. For example, proposing and implementing a new algorithm or revising an existing algorithm to improve its efficiency might be an appropriate research area. The results of the research are documented in writing and defended in a formal oral presentation of the work.

A project is more application-oriented. It might consist of an implementation of existing methodology or algorithm for solving a practical problem. It focuses more on applying knowledge learned to real world scenarios than to the more-theoretical research effort required for a thesis. The work is documented in writing and defended in a manner similar to that required for a thesis.