Accelerated Program

The accelerated program is designed for students aiming to complete their degree earlier. Students enrolled in the MSCS accelerated program can expect to finish their degree in 1.5 years, completing a total of 36 units. Students in the Bridge accelerated program can expect 2.5 years with a requirement of 60 units. 

 

Am I eligible for the Accelerated Program?

It depends. Typically, students indicate their interest in either the MSCS or Bridge accelerated options on their application. If a student did not indicate interest initially but is currently in their first semester and wishes to enroll, they must immediately contact the Program Director Lisa Mayorga to request consideration. The faculty will then evaluate each student's potential for success in the accelerated track.

To remain eligible, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.85 each semester. Also, during the first semester of the program, students are required to get a recommendation to continue from their instructors in both CS 601 and CS 603, as well as approval from the Academic Director Matthew Malensek. 

Please be professional when asking for recommendations. Harassment of instructors or the Academic Director is strictly prohibited and will result in expulsion from the program.

If a student fails to meet the eligibility requirements during their time in the program, they can continue with the traditional (non-accelerated) curriculum. 

 

MSCS Accelerated curriculum

Below is the curriculum path for the MSCS accelerated program. The curriculum path for the Bridge accelerated program will be given at a later date (as it's slightly more complicated). 

Fall Semester 1 (8 units)

  • CS 601 Principles of Software Development
  • CS 603 Algorithms

Spring Semester (12 units)

  • CS Development Course
  • CS Systems Course 
  • CS 6XX Elective

Summer (4 units)

  • CS 3XX/4XX/5XX/6XX Elective

Fall Semester 2 (12 units)

  • CS 690 Master's Project
  • CS 6XX Elective
  • CS 6XX Elective

Please contact Program Director Lisa Mayorga at lbmayorga@usfca.edu with any questions.