Mar 28, 2024  
University Catalog 2011-2012 (PRINTED) 
    
University Catalog 2011-2012 (PRINTED) [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Computer Science, Integrated B.S./M.S.


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The Integrated BS/MS program in Computer Science provides an accelerated route for academically excellent upper-division students in the BS degree program to complete the MS degree program while simultaneously completing the BS requirements. The main objectives of the program are:

  • To provide an accelerated route to a graduate degree, with simultaneous awarding of both bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
  • To provide a seamless process whereby a limited number of student can progress from undergraduate to graduate status without having to apply through the Admissions Office.

Program Features

  • Simplified application process
  • BS and MS coursework can be taken concurrently
  • 16 common elective units between BS and MS programs.
  • Access to graduate student facilities
  • TA appointments (if available)
  • Scheduling flexibility provided by the program enables students to complete the BS and MS degrees efficiently.

Admission to the Integrated BS/MS Program

The eligibility requirements for admission to the Integrated BS/MS program are:

  • Students must have completed a minimum of 135 quarter units of coursework.
  • Students must have a minimum GPA of 2.75 in the last 90 quarter units.
  • Students must have completed all of the six required CS 300-level courses (CS 301 , CS 312 , CS 320 , CS 332C , CS 332F , CS 332L , CS 337 , CS 386 ) in the BS degree program with a minimum grade of “B”.
  • Students must have completed the Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR).

Students are selected by a faculty committee based on prior academic performance and other measures of professional promise including a personal statement and letters of recommendation.

Applications for the Computer Science Integrated BS/MS program are only accepted in the fall quarter. Applications must be submitted in advance of the desired starting quarter. To apply, please submit:

  1. Application in word doc format.
  2. Two letters of recommendation in word doc format (at least one of which should be from a full time Computer Science faculty member)

After review by a faculty committee and if the application is accepted, a Graduate Degree Study Plan will be prepared and approved. The department chair will submit a GS-8 Form to the Registrar’s Office to change the degree objective from the BS to the BS/MS Integrated program. The formal degree plan would specify the sixteen units of common electives to be listed on the BS and the MS program.

Degree Requirements


  1. Successful completion of all requirements for the BS (180 - 183 units) and the MS (45 - 53 units) degrees with an overlap of 16 units in electives.
  2. A minimum 2.0 GPA for courses counting towards the bachelor’s degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA for courses counting towards the master’s degree.
  3. Degrees awarded when requirements for both the bachelor’s and the master’s degrees are met by the student and recorded by the Registrar’s Office. Both degrees are awarded in the same quarter.
  4. Students who select the Thesis Option must be enrolled during the term that they submit their approved graduate thesis/project to the Library.
  5. Students must apply to graduate in the Integrated Program (BS / MS) by submitting a Graduation Application to the Registrar’s Office. This request should be submitted at least two quarters prior to graduation.
  6. Students who fail to complete the requirements for the master’s degree, may petition to withdraw from the Integrated Program, if the petition is approved, the bachelor’s degree will be granted when all the requirements for that degree are met.

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