California State University San Marcos MS in Computer Science

California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) offers a Master of Science in Computer Science through Extended Learning. The 30-unit, face-to-face program can be completed in four consecutive semesters, or about 18 months. Its required curriculum includes Artificial Intelligence and Introduction to Data Mining, with additional graduate electives available for students who want to build more depth in machine learning and related computing fields.

Quick Facts

SchoolCalifornia State University San Marcos (CSUSM)
LocationSan Marcos, California
DegreeM.S. in Computer Science
Credits30 units
FormatCampus / face-to-face
Tuition$27,000 estimated program tuition ($900 per unit; university fees not fully included)
LengthAbout 18 months / 4 consecutive semesters
AI / ML FocusModerate: required AI and data mining courses, plus graduate electives

Curriculum

The CSUSM MS in Computer Science uses a set cohort schedule. The sample sequence includes CS 512: Introduction to Data Mining and CS 571: Artificial Intelligence, along with graduate work in design patterns, computer networks, algorithm analysis, advanced database systems, and three graduate electives.

The official program details describe CS 571 as covering AI problem solving, knowledge representation and reasoning, planning, uncertainty, decision-making, machine learning, and natural language processing. CS 512 introduces data mining tools and methods for analyzing and finding relationships in data.

Credits and Program Length

The degree requires 30 units. CSUSM structures the program across four consecutive semesters, including summer, and markets the completion time as approximately 18 months. Guaranteed course availability is intended to keep each cohort moving through the sequence without waiting for required classes.

Tuition and Cost

CSUSM Extended Learning currently lists the program at $900 per unit. At 30 units, estimated program tuition is $27,000. The university states that not all semester fees are included in this figure and that published tuition rates can change.

This program uses Extended Learning pricing, so the general CSUSM graduate tuition schedule should not be used to calculate the degree cost. Students should check the program cost information for the current cohort rate.

Admissions

Applicants need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution and a minimum 2.5 GPA. Applicants without a computer science degree must show preparation equivalent to discrete mathematics, data structures and algorithms, and programming languages.

The GRE is not required, although applicants may submit scores. Required application material includes a one- to two-page statement of purpose. A résumé or CV and recommendation letters are optional. International applicants may also need to meet CSUSM English proficiency requirements.

Machine Learning, AI, and Data Science Focus

CSUSM is a useful option for students who want a broad computer science master’s with direct AI and machine learning exposure. Artificial Intelligence is part of the sample required sequence and explicitly covers machine learning and natural language processing. Introduction to Data Mining adds training in data analysis and pattern discovery.

The degree is broader than a dedicated MS in Artificial Intelligence or Machine Learning. Students also study networks, software design, algorithms, and databases. The three graduate electives provide room to develop a more specialized plan when suitable AI, machine learning, data science, or related courses are offered.

Campus Format

The program is face-to-face at CSUSM in San Marcos. It follows a cohort schedule rather than an online, self-paced format. Students who need a fully online machine learning or AI master’s should compare other California programs.

Culminating Experience

The Extended Learning cohort does not require a thesis. The sample schedule ends with CS 695: Culminating Experience: Comprehensive Exam, a three-unit requirement in the final semester. This structure may appeal to students who want an applied, course-based master’s rather than a thesis-centered research degree.

Who Is This Program Best For?

CSUSM is a good fit for students who want a campus-based computer science master’s that can be completed quickly and still includes meaningful AI and data-focused coursework. It may work especially well for students who want broad advanced computing skills while using electives to add more depth in machine learning or a related area.

Bottom Line

The CSUSM MS in Computer Science requires 30 units, takes about 18 months, and has estimated tuition of $27,000 before additional university fees. It is not a dedicated machine learning degree, but required coursework in artificial intelligence and data mining, including direct coverage of machine learning, gives the program a clear enough AI/ML connection to merit consideration alongside other California options.