Computer Science - Computer Security

Program Description [back to top]

The USC Master of Science in Computer Science (Computer Security) is program created in response to a direct need specified by both industry and government. This unique degree highlights courses relevant to the practice of computer security research, development and deployment, and the secure operation of computer systems. Topics include development of systems that enforce security; cryptography and statistical analysis of attacks; and implementation and management of systems that depend on security technologies for correct operation.

In addition to earning the Master of Science in Computer Science (Computer Security), students also have a selection of choosing from other specializations:

• MSCS-CN Master of Science in Computer Science with Specialization in Computer Networks
  
  
• MSCS-MC Master of Science in Computer Science with Specialization in Multimedia and Creative Technologies
  
  
• MSCS-SE Master of Science in Computer Science with Specialization in Software Engineering
  
  
• MSCS Master of Science in Computer Science (General)

Application Criteria [back to top]

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, mathematics or engineering from a regionally-accredited college or university.
  
  
• Satisfactory results on the general Graduate Record Examination (GRE). The Advanced Computer Science, Mathematics, or Engineering Area Test is recommended but not required. Tests over 5 years old will not be considered.
  
  
• Substantial background in computing (the equivalent of the following USC undergraduate courses constitutes a minimum requirement):
  
  
• CSCI 101: Fundamentals of Computer Programming
• CSCI 102: Data Structures
• CSCI 201: Principles of Software Development
• EE 101: Introduction to Digital Logic
• EE 357: Basic Organization of Computer Systems
  
  
• Intellectual promise indicating the ability to perform high level graduate work in a rigorous academic environment.
  
  
• International students whose native language is not English must earn a satisfactory score on the TOEFL (600 on the paper-based test; 250 on the computer-based test) or take the on-campus International Student English Examination (ISE) prior to initial registration.
  

ADMISSION STATISTICS**

• Average undergraduate cumulative GPA of students newly enrolled in USC graduate engineering programs is 3.37 (4.00 scale)
  
  
• Average GRE scores of students newly enrolled in USC graduate engineering programs is Quantitative 749 and Verbal 478

** These scores are averages.  Students with scores both above and below these averages were both admitted and not admitted.  The Viterbi School reviews all applications comprehensively and evaluates applicants on the entire application file with an emphasis on undergraduate institution, GPA, grades earned in pre-requisite courses and GRE scores.

Graduation Requirements [back to top]

A minimum of 27 units is required for the USC M.S. in Computer Science (Computer Security) degree.

• Required General Masters Course: 3 units
  
  
• Required Computer Security Courses: 17 units
  
  
• Elective Computer Security Courses: 9 units
  
  
• Please consult and receive approval from a Computer Science graduate advisor before enrolling in elective courses
  
  
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 is required for graduation.

Thesis Option: With the approval of a supervising professor, qualified students may be allowed to pursue a thesis option. For more information, please refer to the USC Catalogue.

Course Descriptions [back to top]

Required General Masters Course (3 units)
Choose one of the following.

How To Apply [back to top]

In order to evaluate any application for admission, application materials must be submitted by the deadlines listed:

June 15th Fall admission
October 1st Spring admission

Click here to complete the USC graduate application.

Please arrange to have the following sent to the USC Office of Admission as a hard copy (USC Graduate Office of Admission, University Park Campus, Los Angeles, CA  90089-0915):

• Official Transcript(s) from all post-secondary schools you have attended, and official translations if they are not in English.
  
  
• General GRE scores (no older than 5 years). Official scores must be sent through ETS to the University of Southern California, ETS code 4852)
  
  
• TOEFL scores (required for international students)

Contact Information [back to top]

For the USC Computer Science Department:

Student Services Advisor
Computer Science
Tel: (213) 740-4494
Fax: (213) 740-7285

For the USC Distance Education Network (DEN):

Ray Fujioka
Master's & Professional Programs [MAPP]
Tel: (213) 740-4488
Fax: (213) 821-0851
Email: info@den.usc.edu