Skip to main content
    GradsMatch
    Back to Programs
    University of Southern California

    Master of Science in Computer Science (Security)

    Last verified against the official program page on .

    Los Angeles, USMSIn-person2 years
    STEM-OPT
    $77,408.00
    Tuition
    over 24mo
    11%
    Acceptance
    of applicants
    32
    Credits
    $90.00
    App fee

    Master of Science in Computer Science (Security) at University of Southern California is a 32-credit, 2-year, in-person MS program based in Los Angeles, US. Tuition is $77,408 and the program is STEM-OPT eligible for international students.

    About the program

    The program covers computer security research, development, deployment, and secure operation of computer systems. Topics include systems that enforce security, cryptography, statistical analysis of attacks, and management of security-dependent systems.

    Focus: coursework
    73 (QS) | 21 (US News)

    Your fit

    Match

    Pro users see a 0 to 100 match score personalized to their academic profile, plus a per-component breakdown (major, GPA, tests, work experience, and more).

    Admissions

    Pro

    Unlock full admissions requirements

    GPA thresholds, GRE/TOEFL/IELTS minimums, essay counts, recommendation letters, prerequisites, admissions contacts, and country-specific requirements like APS certification, portfolio submissions, or GATE scores.

    Sign in to view - it's free

    Deadlines

    Spring 2027
    Sep 1, 2026

    Standardized tests

    GRE
    optional
    Min The GRE is not required for 2026 Master's applicants
    TOEFL
    optional
    Min Master’s degree programs | 90 or above, with 20 or above in each section (prior to Jan 21 2026)
    IELTS
    optional
    Min 6.5 (no less than 6 on each band score for exemption from additional language requirements)

    After the program

    Post-study work rights

    12 months OPT (US), 24 months STEM OPT (US)

    $14,400.00
    Annual living cost

    Application Checklist

    Sign in to track what you need to submit for this program.

    Sign in
    See admits on GradCafe
    Self-reported profiles of past applicants to this program.

    Prerequisites

    Specific coursework this program expects you to have completed: calculus, linear algebra, programming, statistics, and subject-specific prerequisites where applicable.

    Recommendations

    Exact count of letters required, whether academic vs professional references are preferred, and any program-specific guidance on who to ask.

    Essays

    Number of essays required (statement of purpose, personal statement, diversity statement), prompts where the program publishes them, and whether supplemental essays are optional or mandatory.

    Contact

    Direct email and phone for the admissions office handling this program, plus a link to the program-specific inquiry page where available.

    Frequently asked questions

    How much does Master of Science in Computer Science (Security) at University of Southern California cost?
    The total estimated tuition for Master of Science in Computer Science (Security) at University of Southern California is $77,408 across 32 required credits.
    Is Master of Science in Computer Science (Security) at University of Southern California online or in-person?
    Master of Science in Computer Science (Security) at University of Southern California is offered in-person.
    How long does Master of Science in Computer Science (Security) at University of Southern California take to complete?
    Master of Science in Computer Science (Security) at University of Southern California is structured around 2 years and 32 credits.
    Is Master of Science in Computer Science (Security) at University of Southern California STEM-OPT eligible?
    Yes - Master of Science in Computer Science (Security) at University of Southern California is STEM-OPT designated, allowing international graduates to extend their post-completion OPT for up to 36 months total.
    How competitive is Master of Science in Computer Science (Security) at University of Southern California?
    Master of Science in Computer Science (Security) at University of Southern California reports an acceptance rate of approximately 11%.