Master of Science [M.S] [Computer Science] From University of Maine

An M.S. student has the option of preparing and defending a masters thesis or completing a masters project. The thesis option is the traditional route to an M.S. degree, and is required of all students who want to go on to the Ph.D.

The thesis requires substantially more work by the student than the project, and it allows a more in-depth examination of a problem. The thesis option prepares the student for a career in research and development or for further graduate work in a Ph.D. program. The masters project is more targeted and applied than the thesis, with additional course work. This option best prepares students for advanced jobs in industry. Both options require thirty (30) credit hours of course work at the 400 level and above. This includes:

• Required core courses. The required core courses, which must be passed with a grade of B or better, are: Software Engineering, Theoretical Computer Science, and Algorithms.
• Six thesis credit hours (COS 699) or three project credit hours (COS 599).
• Approved elective courses.