3-2 Program in Computer Science

The 3-2 Program allows undergraduate students to complete both the Bachelors and Masters Degree in Computer Science in five years. The program assumes the completion of all undergraduate Bachelor's requirements and most likely some of the graduate course requirements within the first 4 years. Ideally the fifth year is devoted to graduate courses, research, and a final exam, thesis, or equivalent.

General Information:

1. Students with AP or transfer credits who wish to do CS research or desire a MS degree in CS should definitely consider the 3-2 program.

2. Students planning on the 3-2 program should get advice on course scheduling prior to Junior year, to facilitate proper course selection.

3. Aspiring 3-2 students must find a CS faculty MS advisor before applying. The MS advisor will supervise and advise the student in research and course work. The 3-2 application must contain a specific proposal for MS examination or final project, agreed to by the advisor. The faculty advisor helps design the strategy for and specifics of the student's program of study. (A Program of Study form must be submitted to the College before the first term of graduate matriculation, usually in the 4th year).

4. Aspiring 3-2 students are strongly encouraged to take 400 level courses as part of their undergraduate degree coursework. There are enough graduate courses to complete 30 credits without taking both the 200 and 400 level versions of any course.

5. Applying to the 3-2 Program: Use the URCS Graduate Application Form , with these differences:

  • GREs are not required.
  • Of the minimum two letters of recommendation, we expect at least one to be from the MS advisor.
  • The application should be submitted by March 1st of the Junior year.
  • An excellent academic record is an advantage when applying.

6. 3-2 students must finish all undergraduate requirements by the end of the 4th year; at that point they receive the Bachelor's degree.