Soar to New Heights with UNF’s M.S.-CIS
The Master of Science in Computer and Information Sciences at the University of North Florida is built for those who want to shape the future of technology — not just keep up with it. Designed for both emerging and experienced professionals, the program delivers advanced, interdisciplinary training across today’s most in‑demand areas to equip graduates for high‑impact careers — or the pursuit of a Ph.D.
All five of UNF’s M.S.-CIS concentrations are available as thesis or non-thesis tracks:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computer Science
- Cybersecurity
- Data Science
- Information Systems
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Find Your CIS Path
Career starter with a bachelor's degree
Differentiate yourself in a highly competitive job market that rewards in-demand skills and depth.
Specializations
In many computing roles, a bachelor’s is enough — but specialization is what sets top candidates apart. UNF’s M.S.-CIS lets you build deep expertise in AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Science or Information Systems, pairing advanced coursework with applied projects that signal above‑average skill not just experience.
“Students leave with professional experience, not just a degree.”
Flexibility
Evening and online courses let you earn your M.S. while working, completing a focused 30‑credit degree in as little as 1.5–2 years.
Faculty Mentorship
Faculty‑guided projects and applied research help you graduate with real experience, real impact and real signals of career readiness.
“The mix of challenging coursework, hands-on assignments, and faculty support helped me connect theory to real-world applications.”— Poonkuzhali Vasudevan, M.S.-CIS ’24
In-market professionals with experience
Advance by upskilling, gaining credibility and opening doors to management positions.
Specializations
If you’re already working in tech, a master’s isn’t about starting over — it’s about specializing to move up faster. UNF’s M.S.-CIS concentrations help you deepen technical authority in high‑growth areas, strengthening your credibility for leadership, higher‑impact projects and more advanced roles.
“The program helped bridge the gap between theory and practice.”— Alekhya Seelam, M.S.-CIS ’26
Flexibility
Targeted specializations help you deepen expertise, gain credibility and prepare for promotion or strategic career growth in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Faculty Mentorship
Work closely with faculty mentors on applied projects and research that translate directly into leadership skills and career momentum.
“The mix of challenging coursework, hands-on assignments, and faculty support helped me connect theory to real-world applications.”— Poonkuzhali Vasudevan, M.S.-CIS ’24
CIS experts with a passion for research
Build a competitive foundation for Ph.D. admission and a research career.
Specializations
For students aiming beyond industry roles, specialization is essential. UNF’s M.S.-CIS provides rigorous focus areas and faculty‑guided research that help you move beyond general computing skills and develop the depth, methodology and research experience expected of strong Ph.D. candidates.
“Faculty guided me through how to conduct research into advanced subjects.”— Jonathan O’Berry
Flexibility
Choose a thesis or non‑thesis path that strengthens your academic foundation while preparing you for competitive doctoral programs.
Faculty Mentorship
Work closely with faculty mentors on publishable research, applied AI projects and community‑engaged initiatives. Small class sizes and individualized guidance help you build the research experience, confidence and academic profile expected of strong Ph.D. candidates.
“The mix of challenging coursework, hands-on assignments, and faculty support helped me connect theory to real-world applications.”— Poonkuzhali Vasudevan, M.S.-CIS ’24
- 2 Tracks: Thesis and Non-thesis
- 5 Concentrations
- 30 Credit Hours
Career Opportunities
Career Pivots
The M.S.-CIS benefits those who are:
- Switching from software engineering, web development, systems administration, UX/UI design, cloud / DevOps roles to AI, data science or cybersecurity.
- Moving into leadership or higher-paying positions requiring increased strategic management.
- Pivoting into computing from another field.
Salary
UNF Master of Science in Computer & Information Science graduates command significantly higher starting salaries — averaging $29,000 more per year than Computer Science undergraduates immediately after graduation.
Job Placement
Launch your career with confidence — 4 out of 5 M.S.-CIS graduates land jobs in Florida within just one year of graduating. Our M.S.-CIS grads don’t just earn a degree — they get hired.
See Where Our Grads Work
— Mahmoud Elbatouty, M.S.-CIS ’25, Ph.D. ’29The M.S. in CIS program showed me how fluid the tech industry is and pushed me to keep breaking outside my comfort zone. Learning both the theory and the application gave me confidence to work on complex problems.
Admission Criteria
Bachelor's Degree
Applicants should hold an existing bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Commutations Engineering.
Test Scores
Applicants without a relevant undergraduate or graduate degree must provide valid GRE test scores.
Prerequisite Coursework
Applicants without a relevant undergraduate or graduate degree must complete prerequisite coursework and obtain a “B” or above in Procedural and Object-Oriented Programming, Data Structures, Applied Discrete Mathematics, Databases and Computer Networks.
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We’ll be in touch with more information soon. In the meantime, learn more about us and how we can help you reach your goals. Or if you’re ready to take the next step, we invite you to apply today!
Discover UNF’s M.S. in Computer and Information Science
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Focus Areas
UNF’s M.S.-CIS program offers five focus paths:
Artificial Intelligence / Computer Science / Cybersecurity / Data Science / Information Systems - Admissions Requirements UNF’s M.S.-CIS program is designed for aspiring professionals with established technical knowledge, and applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree in computing or a related field.
- Assistantships & Awards UNF strives to make your education affordable. Applicants are encouraged to explore our financial aid options — including graduate assistantships, grants and scholarships.
Find Your True North — Apply Today!
At UNF, you’ll find everything you need to launch this exciting next phase of your career. Take advantage of the resources and opportunities we offer and submit your application. When you do, you’ll benefit from:
- A streamlined application process
- No test scores required for most programs
- Holistic admissions review
- Responsive and supportive staff to answer your questions
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Get in Touch with Us
Have questions? Our responsive staff are standing by to offer their help — just reach out!