Accelerated Master's Frequently Asked Questions
Accelerated Master's in Computer Science frequently asked questions.
Are the BS and MS degrees offered through this program the same as the individual BS and MS degrees?
Yes, the BS and MS degrees offered through this program are identical to the individual BS and MS offered by the college. All degree requirements for the BS and MS degrees must be met. The Accelerated MS program does not affect the requirements for either one of these degree programs or any other dual-degree program.
Do I need to have completed CompSci 311 before applying?
Yes. You need a B+ or higher in COMPSCI 311 in order to be eligible for the Accelerated MS program. COMPSCI 311 cannot be in progress when you apply.
If I only want to transfer three courses from my undergraduate degree to the MS, am I still eligible for the 4+1 program?
Yes, if a student decides they only have 3 courses or prefer to only transfer 3 courses toward the MS degree, they may remain in the 4+1 program. The student will need to complete 21 credits instead of 18 credits as a graduate student. If the student qualifies for the Bay State Scholarship, it will still only apply to 18 credits of tuition.
Can I double count a course that I received a P in?
Yes, an undergraduate course that you received a P in can be counted towards your accelerated Master’s program, and it will transfer to the Master’s program with the underlying grade. The P will remain on your undergraduate transcript.
Can I double count a course that I have also double counted for a double major or minor?
No, a course can only be used for a maximum of two credentials. If you double count a course towards two majors, or a major and a minor, it can not count towards the accelerated MS in computer science program.
Will I be able to transfer or double count graduate courses outside of computer science?
Yes, courses taken at UMass Amherst outside of computer science that have been approved for the MS degree may be considered for transfer and/or double counting.
Do I also need to apply to the UMass Graduate School?
Once accepted into the Accelerated MS program, you will need to submit a graduate school application during the semester prior to graduation. The graduate academic programs staff will send you instructions about when to submit your Bay State Scholarship application and graduate school application. You will not need to submit letters of recommendation/references, statement of purpose/personal statement, and you will not have to pay the application fee.
How much of my MS tuition will the Bay State Scholarship apply to?
The Bay State Scholarship will apply to 18 credits you take after completing your undergraduate studies. If you choose to take more than 18 credits as an MS student, the Bay State scholarship will only apply to 18 of those credits. Scholarships will be awarded in two equal payments.
Who will my advisor be during the last two semesters of my undergraduate studies?
You will keep your undergraduate advisor until you matriculate into the MS program.
Can the MS degree be completed online?
Yes, you can choose to complete the MS degree online after you finish your undergraduate studies. However, the Bay State Scholarship does not apply to online courses. Not all graduate-level courses are available online each semester, so you may have fewer options for your final (fifth) year if you choose to complete your degree online.
Can I defer my enrollment in the Accelerated MS Program?
No. If accepted, you must matriculate into the Accelerated MS program immediately following the completion of your undergraduate program. You may not defer enrollment to a future semester, or begin the Accelerated program after there has been one or more semesters off following your undergraduate completion. You may defer your enrollment in the MS program, but then you would not be able to use the accelerated benefits.