USA · Master's
University of Southern California (Viterbi School of Engineering)
MS in Computer Science
University of Southern California (Viterbi School of Engineering)
Course Overview
The MS in Computer Science at USC Viterbi is a 28-unit STEM-designated program in Los Angeles, the second-largest US tech market after the Bay Area. Sri Lankan applicants choose between the General track and seven specialisations — Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Computer Security, Game Development, Multimedia & Creative Technologies, Scientists & Engineers, and Software Engineering — letting you align your transcript with the specific recruiter pool you're targeting.
The program is hands-on and project-driven, with optional CPT in your second semester for paid internships at LA-area employers (Snap, Riot Games, SpaceX, Northrop Grumman). As a STEM program, graduates get 12 months of F-1 OPT plus a 24-month STEM extension — 36 months total US work authorisation, the standard runway Sri Lankan CS grads use to land H-1B sponsorship.
Entry Requirements
Academic
- check_circle Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field with strong programming background.
- check_circle Minimum GPA 3.0 (out of 4.0) — Second Upper equivalent for Sri Lankan applicants.
- check_circle GRE is NOT required for 2026 entry (USC waived the requirement permanently).
- check_circle Statement of purpose, three recommendation letters, and CV/resume.
English Proficiency
- check_circle IELTS Academic: 6.5 Overall (no band below 6.0).
- check_circle TOEFL iBT: 90 Overall (Writing 20, Speaking 20, Reading 20, Listening 20).
- check_circle Waived if your undergraduate degree was taught in English at a recognised university.
Estimated Cost of Study
| Expense Category | Amount ($) | Approx. LKR |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (28 units @ $2,742) | $76,776 | Rs. 24,568,300 |
| Mandatory Fees & Health Insurance | $5,200 | Rs. 1,664,000 |
| Living Expenses (18 months, LA) | $36,000 | Rs. 11,520,000 |
| F-1 Visa & SEVIS Fees | $535 | Rs. 171,200 |
| Total Programme Investment | $118,511 | Rs. 37,923,500 |
*LKR conversion based on current bank rates. Subject to change.
Career Outcomes & PR
USC Viterbi MS CS graduates are eligible for 36-month STEM OPT. Median starting salary for the class is around $135,000, with strong placement at FAANG-tier firms (Google, Meta, Amazon, Apple), LA tech (Snap, Riot Games, Activision), and defence/aerospace (SpaceX, Northrop Grumman, Boeing).
Related Programs
SM in Computational Science and Engineering
Harvard University (John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences)
MS in Computer Science
Stanford University
MS in Data Science
New York University (Center for Data Science)
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