Certificate Overview
The M.S. in Computer Science Pathway Certificate is designed as a focused, credit-bearing entry point into graduate computer science. Learners complete three graduate computer science courses, earning 9 Stevens graduate credits that apply toward the 30-credit MSCS degree upon admission.
For learners without a computer science background, the pathway is easiest to understand as a guided sequence. Students typically begin with programming foundations, then move into computational thinking and data structures, and then select a third course that builds practical systems or database depth.
The pathway gives learners a structured way to start graduate computer science without committing to the full master's degree first. By earning a B or better in each certificate course and meeting applicable GPA expectations, students can strengthen their continuation pathway into the Online MSCS while carrying the 9 earned credits forward upon admission.
Key Skills Developed:
Term Start Date
FALL 2026: September 1, 2026
Overview
- Now Enrolling
- 9 Graduate Credits
- 3 Courses (3 credits each)
- 100% Online
Now Enrolling
Status
9 Credits
3 Courses
100%
Online
To MSCS
Stackable
Fall 2026
Start Term
$5,250
Total Cost
By the Numbers
9
Graduate Credits
Each certificate is a three-course graduate credential.
$5,250
Total Cost
Aligns with the IRS $5,250 annual tax-free employer tuition benefit.
100%
Online Format
Designed for learners studying through Stevens Online.
Career Outlook
This pathway is intended for professionals who want to build graduate-level computing capability, evaluate their fit for the Online MSCS, or add transcripted computer science depth to an existing technical, analytical, or business background.
Recommended Course Path
Example Courses:
Recommended
Start with a programming foundations course to build confidence with graduate-level CS work.
Example Courses:
Recommended
Continue with computational thinking, algorithms, or data structures to strengthen the core CS foundation.
Example Courses:
Recommended
Choose a systems, databases, or software-development course to apply the foundation in a practical context.
Example Courses:
Recommended
If available and appropriate, choose an additional course in AI, cybersecurity, cloud, databases, computer vision, or general CS depth.
Why Choose a Stevens Pathway Certificate?
Stevens Online pathway certificates are designed to reduce commitment risk while preserving academic value. Learners may begin with a focused graduate certificate, earn transcripted credit, and then decide whether to continue into the parent master's program.
For professionals who did not study computer science as undergraduates, the M.S. in Computer Science Pathway Certificate offers a clearer starting point: choose three courses from a recommended four-course pathway, confirm sequencing with an advisor, and build momentum toward the Online MSCS. Strong performance, including a B or better in each certificate course and applicable GPA expectations, can help learners earn their way into the next stage of graduate study.
Curriculum
This pathway certificate uses a flexible course-pool model. Learners complete any three eligible graduate computer science courses from the Online MSCS curriculum. Students without a CS background should begin with the recommended foundation sequence and confirm course selection with an advisor.
Recommended Path for Learners Without a CS Background
Choose three courses from the recommended four-course pathway.
Students typically begin with programming foundations, continue into computational thinking and data structures, and then select a third course that builds practical systems, databases, software, or AI-related depth.
- Programming foundations: build the coding foundation needed for graduate CS coursework.
- Computational thinking and data structures: strengthen the conceptual base for software and systems work.
- Systems, databases, or software development: apply CS foundations in a practical technical area.
- Optional depth course: choose an additional area such as AI, cybersecurity, cloud, databases, computer vision, or general CS depth.
*Recommended sequencing and course selection depend on schedule-based availability, prerequisites, and advisor guidance.
Admissions
WHO SHOULD APPLY
The M.S. in Computer Science Pathway Certificate is open to anyone holding a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution who wants graduate credit they can stack toward a Stevens master's degree.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Apply through our streamlined Accelerated Application. Submit your resume or LinkedIn profile and unofficial transcripts. No letters of recommendation or entrance exams required.
STACKABILITY
All 9 credits are designed to apply toward the parent Stevens master's degree upon admission, subject to applicable academic policies.
Tuition
$5,250
Total Certificate Cost
$583
Per Credit
Corporate Tuition Assistance
Many employers reimburse up to $5,250 per year for job-relevant education. This certificate is strategically priced to align with the IRS $5,250 annual tax-free employer tuition benefit, which can make it a practical choice when your company covers eligible coursework.
Additional Tuition Discounts
Alumni and corporate partner tuition discounts may be available to students who qualify.
Apply by the priority deadline (July 31, 2026) to maximize your funding opportunities.
Tuition based on the current Fall 2026 rates for incoming new students. Tuition and fees are subject to change annually.
Key Dates & Deadlines
Plan your application for the upcoming Summer 2026 term.
| Term | Early Submit | Priority Submit | Final Submit | Start of Classes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | July 3, 2026 Deposit Waiver* and Application Fee Waiver Available. | July 31, 2026 Application Fee Waiver Available and Early Application Review. | August 21, 2026 | September 1, 2026 |
*Applicants who apply by the early submit deadline and are admitted may be eligible for a $250 deposit waiver. Other conditions may apply.
