Joint BS/MS in Computer Science
Introduction
The Joint Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) and Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) is designed for undergraduate students with outstanding academic performance who desire to pursue graduate studies in Computer Science, or who wish to prepare themselves for advanced placement in the workplace. Students will earn both a BS CS and an MS CS degree upon completion, with 8 hours of coursework shared between the two degrees.
Computer Science Joint Requirements
Who is Eligible?
- Current UIC CS Majors (including CSO, HCC & Software Engineering Concentrations)
- Data Science; CS and Design; and any CS+ majors do NOT qualify
- Overall GPA above 3.6
- Have at least two CS technical electives to complete in their last semester of BS degree
- Be in the penultimate semester of their BS degree completion.
Application Process
- In your penultimate semester of completion of your BS requirements, submit our internal application.
- Ex: If BS requirements will be completed in Spring 2026; apply by 10th week of Fall 2025 semester.
- Admissions committee will review and finalize the decision after semester ends (Fall 2025 in example above).
- Student will be contacted with decision
- If Admitted:
- Student MUST attend 1:1 advising session with ‘Graduate Program Advisor’
- Receive complete understanding of the how program works
- Choose to move forward with BS/MS program or not
Admitted / Next Steps
You decided to move forward with BS/MS program
- Work with Graduate Program Advisor to change registration in 2 of your CS Technical Electives to graduate credit in your last BS semester
- Submit Graduate Application with UIC Admissions by the appropriate deadline
- Ensure you are registered for ALL BS requirements and they would be met in your last semester (submit a COE ‘graduation check’ prior to your last BS semester)
- Ensure you do NOT submit an intent to graduate in order to continue with your MS
- Reminder: you will NOT Receive your BS degree until you complete MS requirements
FAQs
Can I apply earlier for the BS/MS?
No. Depending on the timing/qualification you will be denied or your application will be held until it is time to review your application.
What is the deadline to accept and to move forward?
Two weeks before the start of the last semester, so there is ample time for you to switch your 2 CS technical electives to graduate credit before the start of classes.
I decided to not move forward with my MS program after the add/drop deadline for my last semester of BS. What should I do?
Contact cs-grad@uic.edu to notify the Graduate Program Advisor ASAP. Depending on the timing of the semester, you may not be able to earn your BS degree until the end of the following semester.
I am in my first semester of the MS program and decided not to move forward. What should I do?
Contact cs-grad@uic.edu to notify the Graduate Program Advisor ASAP. Depending on the timing of the semester, you may not be able to earn your BS degree until the end of the following semester.
Do I still have the option of the three pathways (coursework, thesis, project)?
Yes – degree requirements will differ based on which option you choose.
Is admission deferral an option?
No, it is only available for the general MS CS program.