CSC News

NC State Ranked #1 Best Online Master of Computer Science Program

In November, ZDNet ranked NC State’s Master of Computer Science (MCS) program as the #1 online computer science master’s degree for 2021. The Master of Computer Science program is a flexible program for working professionals looking to earn their graduate degree in computer science. It is a 31-credit hour degree program available exclusively online with streamed courses, online coursework and exams (taken under properly proctored conditions).

Because most courses are recorded versions of on-campus classes, MCS distance education students have the same coursework as any other MCS graduate student. While the program is available to be taken exclusively online, MCS distance education students have the option to attend on-campus courses as well. Students have the same access and privileges available to them as on-campus students, and are also encouraged to fully interact with their professors and classmates.

ZDNet is a business technology website that keeps readers up-to-date with the latest trends and news within IT. ZDNet’s mission is “to help readers by providing expert insight on IT related topics.” 

ZDNet uses data collected from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) annual survey completed by every school in the United States that receives federal financial aid. Their proprietary ranking algorithm, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), weighs over a dozen factors across academics, reputation, affordability, and programmatic excellence. Each dataset is reviewed by a team of expert consultants and their education editorial board that consists of researchers, scientists, and experts in the fields of higher education, computer science, and information technology, in their five-layer review process.

“You can expect data driven lists curated by experts, and subject to our highest editorial scrutiny. Our approach to rankings is designed to identify programs and schools with proven track records in serving students, learners, and certificate earners.” – ZDNet

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