One app for all your study abroad needs
Indian students want the best universities to study MS in Computer Science in the US. These universities provide high-quality education, advanced research opportunities, and strong career prospects. Students can choose programs based on their interests like AI, data science, cybersecurity, or software engineering. Admission requirements, costs, and scholarships vary between universities. This blog will list the top 10 universities based on QS rankings, along with eligibility criteria, tuition fees, and other important details.
This Blog Includes:
- Best Universities for MS in Computer Science in the US
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – Rank 1
- Stanford University – Rank 3
- Carnegie Mellon University – Rank 6
- University of California, Berkeley – Rank 7
- Harvard University – Rank 5
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign – Rank 13
- University of Washington – Rank 14
- University of California, San Diego – Rank 12
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – Rank 11
- University of Texas at Austin – Rank 68
- Eligibility Requirements for MS in Computer Science in the US
- Scholarships Available for MS in Computer Science in the US
- Career Opportunities & Salary Prospects for Computer Science Students
- FAQs
Best Universities for MS in Computer Science in the US
Indian students often look for the best universities to study MS in Computer Science in the US. Here are the top 10 universities for MS in Computer Science, helping students make an informed choice for their higher studies in 2026.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – Rank 1
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or MIT, started in 1861 in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The university has grown into one of the top institutions for science and technology in the world. MIT is known for its strong research, innovative teaching methods, and world-class faculty. Students from all over the globe come here to study computer science and work on cutting-edge technology projects. MIT encourages creativity, entrepreneurship, and hands-on learning for its students.
Courses Available in Computer Science at MIT
This is the list of main computer science programs offered at MIT. Students can choose programs depending on their career goals, research interests, and desired degree level.
| Course Name | Tuition Fee per Year |
| Master of Science in Computer Science | USD 53,790 |
| Master of Engineering in Computer Science | USD 53,790 |
| PhD in Computer Science | USD 53,790 (often fully funded through assistantships) |
Why Study Computer Science at MIT?
MIT offers a unique environment for students to excel in computer science. Students have access to world-class labs, research centers, and industry connections. MIT graduates gain strong technical skills, research experience, and global career opportunities. Students also benefit from a collaborative community of innovators and leaders in technology.
Stanford University – Rank 3
Stanford University was founded in 1885 in Stanford, California. The university is famous for its strong connection with Silicon Valley. Many tech companies and startups began from ideas developed by Stanford students and professors. Stanford focuses on innovation, entrepreneurship, and research. Indian students who study MS in Computer Science here can explore areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and human-computer interaction. The university encourages students to think creatively and work on real-world problems while studying.
Courses Available in Computer Science at Stanford
Here are the main computer science programs at Stanford. Students can select programs based on their research interests and career goals.
| Course Name | Tuition Fee per Year |
| Master of Science in Computer Science | USD 56,000 |
| Master of Engineering in Computer Science | USD 56,000 |
| PhD in Computer Science | USD 56,000 (often fully funded through assistantships) |
Why Study Computer Science at Stanford?
Stanford offers an inspiring environment for computer science students. Students benefit from close ties to Silicon Valley, opportunities to intern at top tech companies, and access to world-class research labs. Stanford encourages creativity, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship. Graduates from Stanford have excellent career opportunities globally and are highly sought after in the technology industry.
Carnegie Mellon University – Rank 6
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), established in 1900 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is renowned for its pioneering work in computer science, robotics, and artificial intelligence. The university’s School of Computer Science (SCS) is one of the oldest and most prestigious computer science schools in the world. CMU fosters a collaborative environment where students engage in interdisciplinary research and innovation. The university’s close ties with the tech industry, particularly in Pittsburgh’s growing tech hub, provide students with ample opportunities for internships and employment.
Courses Available in Computer Science at CMU
CMU offers a diverse range of courses in computer science, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests. The Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science program is the most prominent, offering flexibility to design a personalized curriculum. Students can choose from various electives and research areas, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and software engineering.
| Course Name | Tuition Fee per Year |
| Master of Science in Computer Science | USD 60,400 |
| Master of Software Engineering | USD 60,400 |
| Master of Computational Data Science | USD 60,400 |
| Master of Robotics Systems Development | USD 60,400 |
Why Study Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University
Studying computer science at CMU offers several advantages.
- World-Class Faculty: Learn from leading experts in various fields of computer science.
- Cutting-Edge Research: Engage in groundbreaking research with access to state-of-the-art facilities.
- Industry Connections: Benefit from CMU’s strong relationships with tech companies, leading to excellent internship and job opportunities.
- Collaborative Environment: Work alongside talented peers from diverse backgrounds, fostering innovation and creativity.
- Global Recognition: A degree from CMU is highly respected worldwide, opening doors to numerous career paths.
Also Read: Top Courses at Dublin City University for International Students
University of California, Berkeley – Rank 7
Established in 1868, the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) is a prestigious institution located in the San Francisco Bay Area. UC Berkeley is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and its proximity to Silicon Valley, the global hub for technology and innovation. The university’s Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences (EECS) offers a Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science, emphasizing research and preparation for doctoral studies. UC Berkeley’s MS program is highly competitive, with a selective admission process that admits a limited number of students annually.
Courses Available in Computer Science at UC Berkeley
UC Berkeley offers a comprehensive MS in Computer Science program through its EECS department. The program spans two years and provides students with a solid foundation in computer science principles, preparing them for advanced research or professional careers in the tech industry.
| Course Name | Tuition Fee per Year |
| Master of Science in Computer Science | USD 31,450 |
| Master of Engineering in Computer Science | USD 31,450 |
| PhD in Computer Science | USD 31,450 (often funded through assistantships) |
Why Study Computer Science at UC Berkeley?
Studying computer science at UC Berkeley offers several unique advantages:
- Proximity to Silicon Valley: Students have access to numerous internship and employment opportunities with leading tech companies located in the nearby Silicon Valley.
- High Starting Salaries: Graduates of UC Berkeley’s MS in Computer Science program enjoy competitive starting salaries, with median earnings significantly higher than the national average.
- Diverse Research Opportunities: The program offers a wide range of research areas, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science, allowing students to specialize in their areas of interest.
- Collaborative Environment: UC Berkeley fosters a collaborative academic environment, encouraging interdisciplinary research and teamwork among students and faculty.
- Global Recognition: A degree from UC Berkeley is highly respected worldwide, opening doors to numerous career opportunities in academia and industry.
Harvard University – Rank 5
Established in 1636, Harvard University is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Renowned for its rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty, Harvard offers a Master of Science in Computer Science through its Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS). The program emphasizes advanced theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing students for leadership roles in academia, industry, and research.
Courses Available in Computer Science at Harvard
Harvard’s MS in Computer Science program provides a comprehensive curriculum encompassing various subfields of computer science.The program is designed to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, equipping graduates with the expertise to tackle complex computational challenges.
| Course Name | Tuition Fee per Year |
| Master of Science in Computer Science | USD 57,328 (first two years) |
| USD 14,904 (third and fourth years) | |
| Master of Engineering in Computational Science and Engineering | USD 63,624 (first year) |
| USD 11,533 (estimated living expenses) |
Why Study Computer Science at Harvard University?
Studying computer science at Harvard offers several unique advantages:
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Collaborate with experts across various disciplines, fostering innovation and comprehensive problem-solving.
- Access to Cutting-Edge Research: Engage in groundbreaking research projects in state-of-the-art facilities.
- Global Recognition: A degree from Harvard is highly respected worldwide, opening doors to numerous career opportunities.
- Extensive Alumni Network: Benefit from a vast network of alumni who are leaders in academia, industry, and government.
- Financial Support: Harvard offers generous financial aid packages, making education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign – Rank 13
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a big public university in Illinois. It is famous for computer science and technology programs. Many students come here for research, projects, and jobs in tech companies. The university has labs, coding competitions, and activities that help students learn and practice real-world skills.
Courses Available in Computer Science at UIUC
Here are the main courses in computer science at UIUC with tuition fees per year.
| Course Name | Tuition Fee per Year |
| Master of Science in Computer Science | USD 26,386 |
| Master of Computer Science in Data Science | USD 26,386 |
| PhD in Computer Science | USD 26,386 (often funded) |
Why Study Computer Science at UIUC?
UIUC offers strong learning opportunities in computer science. Students can join projects, research, and competitions. The university connects students with tech companies for internships and jobs. Graduates are respected worldwide and get many career options.
Also Read: MS in Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) in USA
University of Washington – Rank 14
The University of Washington in Seattle is a top public university. It is known for computer science and technology programs. Students get access to labs, research projects, and coding competitions. The university works closely with tech companies in Seattle, giving students chances for internships and jobs.
Courses Available in Computer Science at University of Washington
Here are the main computer science programs and tuition fees per year.
| Course Name | Tuition Fee per Year |
| Master of Science in Computer Science | USD 38,166 |
| Master of Human-Computer Interaction | USD 38,166 |
| PhD in Computer Science | USD 38,166 (often funded) |
Why Study Computer Science at University of Washington?
Students at UW learn by doing projects and research. The university has strong links with big tech companies like Microsoft and Amazon. Graduates get good jobs in tech worldwide. The environment encourages innovation and teamwork.
University of California, San Diego – Rank 12
The University of California, San Diego is a well-known public university in California. It is famous for computer science and engineering programs. Students get hands-on experience in labs and research centers. UCSD encourages coding competitions, projects, and collaboration with tech companies.
Courses Available in Computer Science at UCSD
Here are the main computer science programs and tuition fees per year.
| Course Name | Tuition Fee per Year |
| Master of Science in Computer Science | USD 30,000 |
| Master of Advanced Study in CS | USD 30,000 |
| PhD in Computer Science | USD 30,000 (often funded) |
Why Study Computer Science at UCSD?
Students at UCSD get practical experience through projects and research. The university works with tech companies, giving internships and job opportunities. Graduates have strong career prospects in the US and worldwide. UCSD supports teamwork and innovation in learning.
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – Rank 11
The University of California, Los Angeles is a top public university in California. It is known for strong computer science and engineering programs. Students get access to research labs, coding competitions, and tech projects. UCLA also has close connections with tech companies in California, helping students find internships and jobs.
Courses Available in Computer Science at UCLA
Here are the main computer science programs and tuition fees per year.
| Course Name | Tuition Fee per Year |
| Master of Science in Computer Science | USD 32,000 |
| Master of Science in Computer Engineering | USD 32,000 |
| PhD in Computer Science | USD 32,000 (often funded) |
Why Study Computer Science at UCLA?
Students at UCLA learn through projects, research, and coding competitions. The university encourages teamwork and practical experience. Graduates get good job opportunities in tech companies in the US and worldwide. UCLA also supports innovation and problem-solving skills.
University of Texas at Austin – Rank 68
The University of Texas at Austin is a large public university in Texas. It is famous for computer science and technology programs. Students get hands-on experience through labs, projects, and competitions. The university also connects students with tech companies for internships and job opportunities.
Courses Available in Computer Science at UT Austin
Here are the main computer science programs and tuition fees per year.
| Course Name | Tuition Fee per Year (USD) |
| Master of Science in Computer Science | USD 21,000 |
| Master of Science in Software Engineering | USD 21,000 |
| PhD in Computer Science | USD 21,000 (often funded) |
Why Study Computer Science at UT Austin?
Students at UT Austin gain practical experience through projects and research. The university has strong ties with tech companies, giving good internship and job options. Graduates are respected in the US and globally. UT Austin encourages collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving.
Eligibility Requirements for MS in Computer Science in the US
Indian students must meet certain requirements to pursue an MS in Computer Science in the US in 2026. These are general guidelines followed by most universities.
1. Bachelor’s Degree
Students should have a 4-year bachelor’s degree in computer science, IT, engineering, or related fields. Some universities may accept a 3-year degree if the student has additional qualifications or a master’s degree.
2. Academic Scores
Students must have good grades in their undergraduate studies. Usually, a minimum of 60–65% is required. Higher grades increase chances of admission.
3. English Language Proficiency
Students must prove they can read, write, and speak English. Accepted tests include:
- IELTS: 6.5 to 7.0
- TOEFL: 90 to 100
4. Standardized Tests (GRE)
Many universities require GRE scores. Some top universities may waive it for strong academic records. High scores improve admission chances.
5. Letters of Recommendation
Students need 2–3 recommendation letters from professors or employers who know their skills and work ethic.
6. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Students must submit an SOP explaining why they want to study MS in CS and their career goals.
7. Resume or CV
Students should provide a detailed CV showing education, projects, internships, and work experience if any.
Scholarships Available for MS in Computer Science in the US
Indian students can apply for several scholarships to support their MS in Computer Science in the United States in 2026.
| Scholarship Name | Benefits | Eligibility Criteria |
| Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships | Full tuition, living stipend, round-trip airfare, health insurance | Indian citizens with a 4-year bachelor’s degree, at least 3 years of professional work experience, and no prior U.S. degree |
| Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarship | Interest-free loan scholarships for postgraduate studies | Indian students with a strong academic record and a clear career plan |
| Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program | Non-degree academic study and related professional experiences in the U.S. | Mid-career professionals with a commitment to public service and leadership potential |
| AAUW International Fellowships | USD 18,000–USD 30,000 for women pursuing graduate or postdoctoral study in the U.S. | Women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and who hold the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree |
| MPOWER Financing Scholarships | Up to USD 10,000 for international students pursuing degrees in the U.S. | Students attending MPOWER partner universities, with no cosigner or collateral required |
| University-Specific Scholarships | Varies (e.g., tuition waivers, stipends) | Varies by university; typically based on academic merit, financial need, or criteria set by the university |
Career Opportunities & Salary Prospects for Computer Science Students
After completing an MS in Computer Science in the US, students can get many high-paying jobs in tech companies. These jobs allow students to use their skills in programming, data, and software development. The US tech industry is growing fast, so career opportunities are strong.
| Job Role | Salary (USD per year) | Top Recruiters in the US |
| Software Engineer | USD 110,000–USD 140,000 | Google, Microsoft, Amazon |
| Data Scientist | USD 115,000–USD 145,000 | Facebook, LinkedIn, IBM |
| Machine Learning Engineer | USD 120,000–USD 150,000 | NVIDIA, Google, Microsoft |
| AI Engineer | USD 120,000–USD 155,000 | Amazon, OpenAI, Tesla |
| Cloud Solutions Architect | USD 130,000–USD 160,000 | Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | USD 95,000–USD 125,000 | Cisco, Palo Alto Networks, IBM |
| Full Stack Developer | USD 105,000–USD 135,000 | Uber, Airbnb, Google |
| DevOps Engineer | USD 110,000–USD 140,000 | Amazon, Netflix, Microsoft |
| Data Engineer | USD 110,000–USD 145,000 | Facebook, Twitter, Google |
| Product Manager (Tech) | USD 125,000–USD 160,000 | Google, Apple, Microsoft |
Also Read: Unique Courses To Study in the UK
FAQs
Ans: The best university depends on what you want to focus on. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, and Carnegie Mellon University are among the top choices. These universities are known for strong research, experienced faculty, and excellent career opportunities.
Ans: Yes, an MS in Computer Science in the USA is worth it for many students. Graduates get high-paying jobs, global exposure, and access to top tech companies. The degree also improves skills in programming, AI, data, and software development.
Ans: Several universities are famous for computer science, including MIT, Stanford, and the University of California, Berkeley. These universities are well-known for innovation, research, and producing graduates who work at leading tech companies.
Relatable Reads
This was all about the best universities for MS in Computer Science in the USA in 2026, including top programs, courses, scholarships, and career opportunities. For more such insights, make sure to check out the Study Abroad page on Leverage Edu and stay updated!
60,000+ students trusted us with their dreams. Take the first step today!