Computer Science

Office: Ritchie School of Engineering & Computer Science
Mail Code: 2155 E Wesley Avenue, Room 379, Denver, CO 80208
Phone: 303-871-2458
Email: info@cs.du.edu
Website: Computer Science

Master's and Doctoral degrees

Why study Computer Science at the University of Denver?

DU’s Department of Computer Science (CS) is creating the future of technology by providing a graduate education that emphasizes both multi-disciplinary and cross-disciplinary knowledge. The distinguished faculty are creating multi-disciplinary education programs that cover both depth and breadth, and research programs that incorporate and account for technological trends in research and development, along with industry. Graduate students join the faculty in conducting cutting-edge basic and applied research in emerging disciplines developing novel and unique solutions to old and new problems and opportunities. Additionally, students are not required to have a computer science background as we offer foundational courses to prepare students for the road ahead.

All laboratories in the Department contain state-of-the-art equipment and software to support research in algorithms, artificial intelligence, computational geometry, humane games, networks, programming languages, robotics, human-robot interaction, security and privacy, and software engineering, among other research areas. Small classes support our multi-disciplinary and real-time focus by providing close contact between students and faculty, which allows us to meet students’ individual career goals.

Denver is a first-rate location for business, government and laboratory partnerships, and technology employment. The Colorado Front Range is consistently rated as one of the top high-tech areas in the country, and DU is located just minutes from the Denver Technological Center, the site of many top technology companies. The Department of Computer Science is committed to active collaboration with these industry leaders. As a result, our students graduate with relevant research experience and a network of employment contacts in the technology sector that is second to none!

Degree Programs

We offer the following graduate computer science degrees:

  • MS in Computer Science
  • MS in Cybersecurity
  • MS in Applied Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
  • PhD in Computer Science

Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science

The PhD in Computer Science is a research‑intensive degree designed to prepare students for leadership in academic, industrial, and government research environments. Through this program, students develop a broad and rigorous foundation in core areas of computer science while making a substantial, original contribution to the field through independent research.

Doctoral students work closely with faculty mentors to design, conduct, and disseminate research that advances knowledge in computer science. Completion of the PhD signifies that a graduate has demonstrated intellectual independence, scholarly depth, and the ability to communicate research findings clearly and effectively to both technical and broader audiences.

Graduates of the program are well prepared for careers as faculty members at universities, research leaders in industry or government laboratories, and innovators shaping the future of computing through research and development. Faculty expertise supports doctoral research across several strengths of the department, including software engineering, robotics, cybersecurity and privacy, and humane games.

Master of Science in Computer Science

The Master of Science in Computer Science provides advanced preparation for professional and research‑oriented careers in computing. The program offers a strong foundation across core areas of computer science while allowing students to develop depth in specialized areas through elective coursework aligned with current and emerging technologies.

Students gain the advanced technical knowledge and analytical skills needed to apply computing in a wide range of domains, reflecting the central role of computer science across disciplines and industries. The program is designed to support diverse career pathways, including advancement in industry, applied research, and technical leadership roles.

Students may choose a thesis option, which emphasizes research experience and scholarly inquiry. This option is well suited for students considering doctoral study in computer science or a related field, as well as those seeking deeper engagement with research and innovation. 

Master of Science in Cybersecurity

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity prepares students for professional advancement or transition into cybersecurity roles across industry, government, and other sectors where secure computing is critical. The program addresses the growing demand for professionals who can design, implement, and evaluate secure systems in an increasingly interconnected digital environment.

Students develop a strong technical foundation in computer science alongside advanced, specialized knowledge in cybersecurity. Coursework emphasizes both theoretical principles and practical approaches to protecting systems, networks, and data, enabling graduates to address contemporary security challenges across a wide range of applications.

The program is designed to support students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds and equips graduates with the technical expertise and analytical skills needed for cybersecurity‑focused careers or further study.

Master of Science in Applied Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

The Master of Science in Applied Data Science and Artificial Intelligence prepares students for advanced professional roles that leverage data‑driven analysis and intelligent systems across a wide range of sectors. The program equips students with the technical and analytical skills needed to extract insight from complex data and to design, evaluate, and apply machine learning and AI‑based solutions.

Students develop a strong foundation in computer science, probability and statistics, data management and exploration, and machine learning, with an emphasis on practical application and emerging approaches in data‑intensive computing. The curriculum is designed to balance breadth across core areas with opportunities to develop depth in topics aligned with students’ professional interests and evolving industry needs.

Graduates are prepared to apply data science and artificial intelligence methods in scientific, organizational, and policy contexts where data‑informed decision making is central.

Program Learning Outcomes 

Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science

  • Demonstrate theoretical knowledge and technical skills in computer science through coursework, examinations, and research.
  • Communicate effectively through presentations, written documentation, and scholarly discourse in academic and professional settings.
  • Contribute original research to the field of computer science, demonstrating the ability to carry out independent inquiry and publish technical findings.

Master of Science in Applied Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

  • Demonstrate proficiency in fundamental mathematical concepts and techniques relevant to data science and AI, including topics in statistics, probability, linear algebra, and calculus.
  • Break down complex programming challenges into modular components, creating scalable solutions through structured code design and industry best practices.
  • Design and create interactive data visualizations that effectively communicate technical findings and their strategic implications to diverse stakeholders.
  • Design and implement data engineering solutions that support advanced data management and analytics capabilities and related workflows.
  • Cultivate responsible AI practices by proactively addressing ethical considerations, privacy concerns, and algorithmic bias throughout the machine learning lifecycle.
  • Orchestrate end-to-end data science projects maintaining code versioning standards, fostering team collaboration, and translating complex analyses for technical and non-technical audiences.

Master of Science in Computer Science

  • Demonstrate theoretical knowledge in computer science, including discrete structures, algorithms, and computational theory.
  • Demonstrate systems-level knowledge including operating systems, hardware/software interfaces, and systems programming.
  • Apply technical skills to develop, implement, and evaluate software solutions in advanced programming contexts.
  • Communicate effectively through presentations and written documentation in professional and academic settings.