Two students discuss a project in a shared workspace at the Roux campus in Portland. The students are sitting in chairs at a rectangular table. One student has a laptop open.

Align MS in Computer Science Online

Apply now
Request info

The Align MS in Computer Science Online offers a flexible online format with three in-person residences to prepare you to break into tech, without a computer science background. Study with a supportive cohort of your peers as you spend the first two semesters building a solid base of fundamental CS knowledge before diving into in-demand specializations such as AI, human-computer interaction, game design, security, and more.

Explore program requirements in the course catalog

Program highlights

Semester hours

44 total semester hours required

Start term

Fall admission

Program modality

Online; three in-person residencies

Career prospects and top employers for Align graduates

In our 12 years, the Align program has prepared more than 2,600 people from diverse backgrounds with the computer science foundation and real-world experience needed for success in the field — making our graduates highly sought after by top employers. You’ll also have the chance to build industry connections through an optional paid co-op or internship. Some 40% of Align MSCS graduates are currently employed by these 10 companies:

  1. AWS
  2. Amazon
  3. Google
  4. Meta
  5. Microsoft
  1. LinkedIn
  2. Salesforce
  3. Oracle
  4. Apple
  5. TikTok

What distinguishes Align students for top employers?

According to Wayne Duso, former AWS vice president, it’s not just technical skills — it’s perspective. Align graduates bring experience from their prior careers in fields like health care, finance, and the arts into tech roles at AWS, Amazon, Google, and more, where diverse thinking drives real innovation. “They bring a fresh understanding — a fresh set of eyes,” says Duso. That’s the Align difference.

How the Align program works, semester by semester

A graphic showing how the Align program works. 2 semesters of bridge classes plus 2 semesters of graduate classes plus 1 four- to eight-month co-op or internship plus 1-2 semesters of graduate classes equals a Master of Science Degree in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, or Cybersecurity
A graphic showing how the Align program works. 2 semesters of bridge classes plus 2 semesters of graduate classes plus 1 four- to eight-month co-op or internship plus 1-2 semesters of graduate classes equals a Master of Science Degree in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, or Cybersecurity

Online learning with real-world experience

It takes both skills and connections to land a top job in tech. That’s why our online program includes three short in-person residencies — with travel and room and board included in tuition — at the beginning, middle, and end of the online bridge portion of the program. During these residencies, which are hosted at three of our campuses, you’ll have opportunities to build community, get in-person support, and put what you’ve learned into practice with real-world projects in a campus setting. 

From there, you can shape the format and pace of your online program in a way that fits into your work and family life: Transition to in-person learning, full or part time, at one of our eight campuses offering the Align program, or continue the online program.

Learning outcomes

The Align MS in Computer Science Online will equip you with technical knowledge and career preparation. As a graduate, you will:

  • Exhibit proficiency in the design, implementation, and testing of software
  • Demonstrate skills and experience working in small teams
  • Apply algorithmic and theoretical computer-science principles to solve computing problems from a variety of application areas
  • Demonstrate the ability to learn and develop competencies in specialized or emerging computer science fields

Is the Align MS Online program flexible for working professionals?

Benji Northrop was a military pilot looking for more work-life balance when he joined the Align program. Now, he says, its model of fully asynchronous classes and “commitment from the school from start to finish” allows him to spend more time with his family while feeling fully supported in his program.

Faculty spotlight

Get to know the engaged, experienced professors who are here to support you every step of the way.

View all faculty

Albert Lionelle

Albert Lionelle is an associate teaching professor at Khoury College, and the director of the Align program. His research centers on the use of computing tools and inclusive pedagogy to enable better computer science education.

Read bio

Align Applicant FAQs

Deadline: August 30 for fall admission

Our Align Apply page has everything you need to know about applying to the Align MS in Computer Science Online program at Khoury College, including:

  • Align admissions requirements
  • Timelines and deadlines
  • Resources and contact information
Learn about applying to Align

Visit Student Financial Services for current tuition and fee information, and to find tools and calculators to help you estimate the cost of your degree, based on 44 required semester hours.

Visit Student Financial Services

Pursuing a master’s degree is a significant investment in your future. Northeastern University and Khoury College of Computer Sciences are here to help support you in any way we can. From financial aid to scholarship opportunities to co-op placements and teaching assistantships, there are multiple options to help fund your degree as you work toward your goals.

Learn more about financial support

Ready to learn more about Align?

Get your Align MS in Computer Science Online questions answered

Find additional answers to questions about our master’s programs on our master’s FAQ page , or complete this form to learn more about the Align MS in Computer Science Online program. One of our enrollment counselors will contact you soon.

Loading…