100% Online
Complete your certificate coursework at your own pace, 100% online.
Apply by
July
31
to start September 1, 2026
9
Credits
$5,250 total
MSCHE Accredited
Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education since 1927.
A credit-bearing entry point into graduate computer science
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.
Quick Facts
Upcoming Start
Fall 2026: September 1
This certificate stacks into a full master's.
Ready to go all the way to the degree?
Every credit you earn in this pathway certificate applies toward the Master of Science in Computer Science upon admission. Explore the full degree to see the complete curriculum, career outcomes, and how your 9 credits give you a head start.
WHERE A COMPUTER SCIENCE PATHWAY CAN TAKE YOU
Career Outcomes
Graduate computer science skills open doors to high-paying software, systems, and data roles - and set you up to continue into the Online M.S. in Computer Science.
Role Title
Median Annual Earnings
BY THE NUMBERS
No. 2
Best New Jersey Schools
Ranked No. 2 of "Best New Jersey Schools" by Best Value Schools.
No. 3
TOP 25 COMPUTER SCIENCE PROGRAMS (BEST ROI)
Ranked No. 3 of "Top 25 Computer Science Programs with the Best ROI" by Best Value Schools.
#12
For Best Career Placement
Ranked No. 12 on The Princeton Review's 'Top 20 Best Career Placement' list (2026).
#22
BEST ONLINE MASTER'S IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS
#22 in Best Online Master's in Information Technology Programs (tie) — U.S. News & World Report.
Rankings shown reflect the M.S. in Computer Science (MSCS) — the degree this certificate stacks into.
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.
Application
We've streamlined the path to your graduate degree. Our Accelerated Application is designed for busy professionals - skip the traditional hurdles and start your Stevens journey in minutes.
At most schools
Traditional Graduate Application
- 2-3 letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose / personal essay
- GRE or GMAT scores
- Official transcripts
- Résumé or CV
- Weeks-long review process
At Stevens
Accelerated Application
- No recommendation letters required
- No essays or personal statements
- No GRE or GMAT required
- Upload unofficial transcripts
- Upload your resume or LinkedIn profile URL
- Apply in minutes, not hours
Official transcripts will be due within 2 months of enrollment. A bachelor's degree is required. Stevens may request additional documentation if needed.
PROOF OF BACHELOR'S DEGREE
Upload a copy of your unofficial transcripts from all undergraduate institutions where credit was earned. This allows us to verify your academic background quickly.
Official transcripts will be due within 2 months of enrollment. Stevens may request additional documentation if needed.
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Demonstrate your professional experience by providing one of the following:
- Upload your résumé – Highlight your work experience, leadership roles, and career achievements
- Link your LinkedIn profile – A convenient alternative that showcases your professional journey
Work experience is valued but not required for admission.
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
The Accelerated Application streamlines your application process by removing the recommendation letter requirement, allowing you to apply faster without coordinating with references.
GMAT/GRE
Standardized test scores are not required for admission to this online certificate.
Tuition & Financial Aid
$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.
Certificate programs are not eligible for federal student aid.
Tuition based on current per-credit rates. Tuition and fees are subject to change annually.
Tuition Calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your tuition with available discounts and employer reimbursement benefits. Keep in mind that most of our students receive some form of financial support, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
See how much you could save based on your eligibility for workforce partner, alumni, and resident discounts.
Key Dates & Deadlines
FALL 2026
Early Submit
July 3, 2026
Eligible for $250 deposit waiver upon admission.
Priority Submit
July 31, 2026
Recommended deadline for best course selection.
Final Submit
August 21, 2026
Last day to submit your application.
Start of Classes
September 1, 2026
Begin your MSCS pathway at Stevens.
*Applicants who apply by the early submit deadline and are admitted may be eligible for a $250 deposit waiver. Other conditions may apply.
