Is a Master’s in Computer Science Worth It?

It makes sense that you'd want to get more involved in the tech world. If you take a look at the future of work, technology isn't going anywhere — it's going everywhere.

So, is earning a master's degree in computer science a good investment? The answer will be different for everyone, but it definitely can be.

What Are the Benefits of a Master’s in Computer Science?

If you want to gain advanced tech knowledge and open up your career options, a master's in computer science could be the solution.

The degree puts more tools in your toolbox and makes you more valuable in the workplace, according to Dr. Francis Manning, an adjunct instructor at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) with over 30 years of experience in technology.

"There are so many different ways to solve the same problem," he said. "You don't have to do it the same as everyone else."

If you're already working in the field, a master's could help you grow in your role — but it could also allow you to change careers and get into the world of tech.

What Does a Master’s in Computer Science Teach?

This degree could feel like a natural progression if you studied computer science in your bachelor's program. But you can still get a master's in computer science without a CS undergrad.

SNHU's master's of computer science program offers foundational courses that can catch you up to speed if you don't have a tech background. However, if you do have a bachelor's in computer science, you can bypass them and start with the advanced material. From there, the master's layers on your existing skills so you can do more and make more, according to Manning.

"You may already have some experience programming, you may know how to do basics in Python or Java, you may know what a database is," he said. "A master's degree takes that to the next level."

The more computer science languages you learn and the more experience you get, the more you can do. Manning compared it to building with a bigger set of legos. "Not only can you make the two or three things that you could make with a small package, you could design an entire city," he said.

The master's at SNHU targets relevant computer science skills and knowledge that can help you define or accelerate your career, Manning said, including:

• Artificial intelligence (AI)
• Data analytics
• Database management
• Software development

SNHU's program also offers concentration options in software engineering and AI that can help you specialize in these areas even further.

Learn more about what the best computer science master's programs look like.

What Can You Do With a Master’s in Computer Science? 

There are a range of different careers you could pursue with a master's in computer science, but according to Manning, two of the most popular paths for graduates are software development and AI.

"Those are the two hot buttons," he said. "Software is the lifeblood of so many industries right now."

And that's what the numbers say, too, as the role is projected to grow 17% by 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) — much faster than the average for all occupations.* Software developers also earned a median salary of $131,450 in 2024, the BLS reports.*

A master's might also help you climb the ranks to a higher position more quickly than you could without one, Manning said.

For example, you could also work toward becoming a computer and information systems manager. These professionals earned $171,200 in 2024 with the role also projected to grow 17% by 2033, the BLS said.*

Do Employers Value Master’s Degrees?

The weight that a master's degree carries can vary depending on who you ask. Some employers prefer to hire those with an advanced degree, while others might prefer to hire employees in entry-level roles and invest in their professional development, according to Manning.

"If you're looking to work with a larger employer, they're going to see greater value in it," he said. "In some cases, if you're looking at getting a job in federal service or with some state agencies, the master's degree (can bring) you in at a significantly higher pay grade."

On average, master's degree holders earned 19% more per week in 2024 than those with just a bachelor's degree, according to the BLS.*

And at the end of the day, an advanced degree brings more knowledge, which means you'll be capable of doing more.

*Cited job growth projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth. Actual salaries and/or earning potential may be the result of a combination of factors including, but not limited to: years of experience, industry of employment, geographic location, and worker skill.

Mars Girolimon '21 '23G is a staff writer at Southern New Hampshire University where they earned their bachelor's and master's, both in English and creative writing. In addition to their work in higher education, Girolimon's short fiction is published in the North American Review, So It Goes by The Kurt Vonnegut Museum & Library, X-R-A-Y and more. Connect with them on LinkedIn.