Computer Science - Ranking and MS/PhD

Graduate School
1

<p>Hi Everyone,</p>

<p>I graduated from UC Irvine (undergrad) in Computer Science with a low cumulative GPA (3.25). I also got a low GRE score (740 math, 410 verbal). Prior to applying, I had full year of software development work experience. I am 22 years old. After less than 30 days, I have been accepted into UCI for the Masters program. I was very surprised.</p>

<p>I received the following letter of recommendations:
1. Computer Science professor at UCI
2. Department Manager from previous job (1 year of experience)
3. Department Manager from current job (4 months of experience)</p>

<p>I to the following schools:
- UC Irvine
- UCLA
- UCR</p>

<p>I will also apply to USC before April 30th. I will be taking the GRE one more time in March to increase my chances of getting into USC.</p>

<p>I would like your opinion on the ranking of the schools that I have applied to. What's the best and the worst particularly for computer science? Also, I am getting second thoughts that I should have applied for a PhD. Do you guys have any thoughts on a Masters vs PhD in Computer Science? Is it possible for me to get a PhD after I have received my Masters with an additional 2 years of education?</p>

<p>Thank you</p>

2

<p>This is from the US News and World Report for Computer Science Graduate School rankings:</p>

<p>UCLA - 13
USC - 20
UCI - 31
UCR - 65</p>

<p>I think you’ll get into USC for a MS even with your current stats.</p>

3

<p>Hi ambiance, USC really? I feel that my GPA and GRE scores are very low. I have looked at their program for computer science: [Overview[/url</a>]</p>

<p><a href=“USC Viterbi Graduate and Professional Programs”>USC Viterbi Graduate and Professional Programs](<a href=“USC Viterbi Graduate and Professional Programs”>USC Viterbi Graduate and Professional Programs)</a></p>

<p>The Computer Science PDF states that the average GPA is 3.55 and the average GRE is 765 math and 490 verbal. I am hoping to take the GRE again and raise my verbal to 450 and math to 780.</p>

<p>I am currently working full-time and it looks like they have an on-line graduate program. Do you know anyone that has told you their experience on-campus versus on-line?</p>

<p>Also, my company is willing to re-imburse my tuition fees. If I mention this in the application essays, do you think it will help or hurt my chances of getting in?</p>