Trying to decide which path to take for getting a M.S

I think I'm at a crossroad. I graduated with a B.S in MIS (thinking I wanted to go into systems network), but I ended up getting a job as a software qa engineer, and really like all of the scripting/programming I'm doing.

But because I don't have a full undergrad background in CS,, it's difficult for me to get a software engineering/architect job.. So I'm trying to decide if it's a good idea to get a M.S to help me. While I said I don't have a full undergrad CS background, I have taken some classes.

Here is where I'm having trouble deciding what to do:
In order to apply to a M.S Computer Science program, I need to have adequate knowledge of undergrad CS, which means I have to take more classes before I can be considered (possibly longer time). The problem is, universities give current students priority in registering for classes, so it's extremely difficult to register for upper division classes. I've tried applying (at my current state) to UCI, but got rejected from their software engineering program...

So because of this, I was thinking of applying to the M.S Information System program at my old school. Because I already have B.S in MIS, I should already qualify, so getting accepted should be easier. Plus, I've asked one of the advisers, and he said the program is designed to fit what I want to do - which means I can take CS classes alongside IS classes. (I'm not sure if they'll let me take masters level courses or not - but at least I'll be a registered student again and can register for classes on time).

Wow, that was a lot more than I expected to write.. Any suggestions?

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Comments

datacomboss

I think going back to your old school is the best route. Have you taken the GRE?

iBrokeIT

If your passion is writing/understanding software I would stick with it and go for a B.S. in Computer Science and not get a M.S. in Information Technologies.

datacomboss

iBrokeIT wrote: »

If your passion is writing/understanding software I would stick with it and go for a B.S. in Computer Science and not get a M.S. in Information Technologies.

He can take the same classes in the IS/IT program plus classes that will help him be a better manager in the future.

pinkydapimp

I would wait and grab the MS in Comp sci. Or, do they have a MS in security? Many security programs have a combination of MIS and comp sci courses. Might be the best of both worlds for you.

CyberfiSecurity

Have you looked at Georgia Tech's Online Master of Computer Science program? They have open enrollment for this program.

jdancer

If you are really want a bachelor's in CS, OSU offers their 1-2-3 year bachelor's degree at Computer Science -- Undergraduate Degrees Online -- Online & Distance Degrees | Oregon State Ecampus | OSU Degrees Online

You decide how fast you want to finish the program.

jjwooyoung

CyberfiSecurity wrote: »

Have you looked at Georgia Tech's Online Master of Computer Science program? They have open enrollment for this program.

jdancer wrote: »

If you are really want a bachelor's in CS, OSU offers their 1-2-3 year bachelor's degree at Computer Science -- Undergraduate Degrees Online -- Online & Distance Degrees | Oregon State Ecampus | OSU Degrees Online

You decide how fast you want to finish the program.

Oh I didn't know about those online programs!

Are they viewed in the same light as normal on-campus degrees? I wouldn't want to waste time and money getting a degree online, and have employers not view it as the same as regular degrees

Though I did notice (in regards to the oregon state program), there's no math classes. I've heard that courses like discrete math is important to CS

jdancer

AFAIK, no online degree from Georgia Tech or OSU says it's an online degree. It's the same course on-ground and on-line.

tprice5

I applied for Georgia Tech's OMSCS yesterday.

N2IT

I don't have an strong opinion one way or another, but I like the idea you are thinking about getting your masters. From what I read I don't think you can go wrong with either decision it does seem one road will require more effort. It comes down to you both can be obtained if you want it. From my laptop to this forum I like the idea of going for the MS in Computer Science. That is a massive crow bar that can pry all sorts of doors open. ***Sorry for the cheesy analogy.

CyberfiSecurity

Georgia Institute of Technology's Online Master of Computer Science.

Pro:
- Brand name (Georgia Tech)
- Tuition ~$6,000 (Steal Deal)
- Flexible Online
- Distance Learning/Online with brick and mortar campus

Co:
- the word "ONLINE" is in the degree title (OMCS)

TerminalB

CyberfiSecurity wrote: »

Georgia Institute of Technology's Online Master of Computer Science.

Co:
- the word "ONLINE" is in the degree title (OMCS)

This is actually false, their site clearly states that the degree verbage will not differ at all than that of the brick and mortar counterpart.

tprice5

TerminalB wrote: »

This is actually false, their site clearly states that the degree verbage will not differ at all than that of the brick and mortar counterpart.

He was stating that the word "online" is in the name of the program/degree, which it is... OMSCS: Online Masters Computer Science.

tprice5 wrote: »

I applied for Georgia Tech's OMSCS yesterday.

Also, I was accepted. Funny story, after submitting my application I was browsing a subreddit devoted to this program and there were discussions regarding the application essays. I interpreted these as short answer and just typed out what popped in my head at the time and pushed through. Glad I didn't waste time writing and preparing a whole paper.

TerminalB

tprice5 wrote: »

He was stating that the word "online" is in the name of the program/degree, which it is... OMSCS: Online Masters Computer Science.

Again, not true

When you receive your degree, it will simply say "Masters in Computer Science" no mention of online. I'm in the program and have had this discussion with the school themselves. Congrats on being accepted by the way!

tprice5

TerminalB wrote: »

Again, not true When you receive your degree, it will simply say "Masters in Computer Science" no mention of online. I'm in the program and have had this discussion with the school themselves. Congrats on being accepted by the way!

You keep talking about the actual degree and I am talking about the name of the program. OMSCS is posted and advertised everywhere. Will it be on your diploma? No, that was one of the first questions answered when this degree was announced. Is the name of the program OMSCS? Tis.
Then again, he may have been referring to the physical diploma as well and I misunderstood. But at least you and I are in agreement! The diploma from the online program is identical to the B&M one.

Thanks! I need to brush up on my coding. I don't think you ever forget the theory but syntax is another story. I work in Operations as a systems engineer so I dont code a lot. I haven't done professional development for about 3 years. Hoping to wrap up my current program by May and have a few months to prepare for a Fall 2015 start date.

cs8400

tprice5 wrote: »

He was stating that the word "online" is in the name of the program/degree, which it is... OMSCS: Online Masters Computer Science.

Also, I was accepted. Funny story, after submitting my application I was browsing a subreddit devoted to this program and there were discussions regarding the application essays. I interpreted these as short answer and just typed out what popped in my head at the time and pushed through. Glad I didn't waste time writing and preparing a whole paper.

Just curious.. You were accepted to Georgia Tech's OMSCS program, but you went with WGU's MSISA. What was the deciding factor there? The reason I ask is I am in the same boat, trying to decide which online master's degree program i want to take.

tprice5

cs8400 wrote: »

Just curious.. You were accepted to Georgia Tech's OMSCS program, but you went with WGU's MSISA. What was the deciding factor there? The reason I ask is I am in the same boat, trying to decide which online master's degree program i want to take.

I missed the application for Fall 2014, wanted to start a program ASAP and knew I could do the MS:ISA within a year. They're both affordable and are completely different in terms of curriculum and subject matter so I just decided to do both.