Virtual University of Pakistan has revised the study scheme for two-year MS in Computer Science (MSCS) degree program as per the guidelines of HEC curriculum. Following are the two revisions carried out in the study scheme:

• The number of required core/requisite courses has been reduced to two. Now the core/requisite courses are CS701 – Theory of Computation and CS702 – Advanced Algorithms Analysis and Design.
• The credit hours required to be eligible for thesis merit list has been reduced to 18. Now students will be eligible for thesis in third semester after completing 18-credit hours in first two semesters.

Introduction

Master of Science in Computer Science is being offered by the Department of Computer Science within and outside Pakistan. The program is designed to produce academicians and professionals of high quality. The designed course work provides depth and breath-based knowledge of core computer science areas (as identified by the HEC), moreover specialization courses enable students to develop advanced expertise in their chosen area of specialization. Currently, following specializations are being offered:

• Software Engineering
• Computer Networks
• Databases

Note: MS Computer Science program is offered only once a year.

Program Mission

The program is designed to meet the growing need for IT experts in the rapidly evolving 21st century economy. The mission is to provide post-graduates with a strong software engineering, computer networks and databases expertise. The study program enables students to capitalize on the increasing career opportunities in the information technology sector, to expand the limits of their knowledge, and to pursue further doctoral studies.

Program Objectives

MS in Computer Science (MSCS) Program aims to:

1. Enlighten students with advanced theoretical and practical computer science knowledge.
2. Impart research faculties in the students.
3. Enable students to add fruitful research contribution in the field of Software Engineering, Computer Networks and Databases.

Program Admission Eligibility Criteria

• 16-year of education, i.e., BS in Computer Science/ BS in Information Technology/ Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons)/ Master of Computer Science/ Master of Information Technology/ M.Sc. (Computer Science) from a recognized institution.
However, candidates having Computer Engineering / Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering / Bachelor of Engineering in Information Technology / Bachelor of Engineering (Computer & Information System) / B.Sc. Computer System Engineering (16-year education) from a recognized institution are also eligible but have to qualify deficiency course(s).
• Candidate must have at least CGPA 2.50 out of 4 or first division wherein GPA system not implemented.
• Each candidate is required to pass the University’s Entry Test (with minimum 50% marks).
• Limited seats on merit basis.

Merit Calculation Formula for Admission to MSCS Program

Note: The MSCS Program is available for applicants residing within Pakistan only and is not available for overseas students (w.e.f. Fall 2018). If any student wishes to move overseas after gaining admission, he/she will be required to withdraw from the program.

Click here  to Download Entry Test Sample

Course Exemption

Course(s) exemption is not allowed.

Duration

It is a two-year duration program spread over four semesters. Each semester has at least 18 weeks duration.
Degree Completion Duration

Deficiency Courses

If the schedule of courses pursued by a candidate does not provide adequate background for the degree course, which he/she intends to take up, he/she may be required to make up the deficiency by taking one or more additional course (s) of deficiency level as may be prescribed by the University.

Course Enrollment

A student can enroll MS level course(s) only if he/she has already passed its respective pre-requisite course(s). A student may attempt to improve a 'C' or a 'D' grade in a course at most once.

Assessment of Study Progress

Students’ study progress is evaluated continuously throughout the semester using the assessment tools as described below. The mid-term and final-term exams are conducted at VU’s designated exam centers.

Guidelines for Thesis Enrollment

• A merit list will be calculated before the start of course selection in each semester for the students. The basic criteria for the merit list will be the completion of minimum 18 MS level credit hours with CGPA ≥ 2.75. Limited number of seats on merit will be offered to enroll thesis research. In case, a student, eligible for the thesis, opts to take the coursework-only then the next student in the merit list will be offered the choice to enroll thesis research.
• Thesis Research work will be offered at designated campuses and will not be offered to overseas students.

Degree Requirements

For the completion of MS (CS) degree program, a student is required to pass: two core courses, minimum three courses from the area of specialization, and
Option I: Research Thesis (six credit hours) plus remaining credit hours from the list of available courses
OR
Option II: remaining credit hours from the list of available courses

Award of Degree

To become eligible for the award of MS in Computer Science (CS) degree, a student is required to complete minimum 30 MS level credit hours according to prescribed scheme of studies with at least CGPA of 2.50 out of 4.

Fee Structure

Click here  to View Fee Structure

Disclaimer

• The courses may be revised time to time as a result of continuous review to bring them at par with courses from being taught at top-class foreign universities. While reviewing the courses, needs of local industry and job market are also given full consideration.
• The University reserves the right to change fee structure from time to time.

Master of Science in Computer Science (upto Spring 2016 session)

Master of Science in Computer Science (upto Fall 2013 session)