2015-2016 University Catalog 
  
2015-2016 University Catalog

Computational Science, MS


Banner Code:  SC-MS-COMP

This program of study is offered by the Department of Computational and Data Sciences  in the College of Science .

The Computational Science, MS  addresses the growing demand for trained computational scientists and engineers, and data scientists. It combines a solid foundation in information technology skills with computational courses in a variety of scientific and engineering areas where large-scale simulation, data analysis, and high performance computing play a central role.

Working with an advisor, a student may choose to pursue an area of emphasis. Typical areas of emphasis are:

  • Modeling & Simulation: Intended for students who wish to learn computational solution techniques for modeling and simulation of scientific and engineering phenomena.
  • Data Science: Intended for students who wish to learn computational methods for acquiring, extracting, and analyzing large-scale data obtained by observations, experiments, modeling, and database searches.
  • Transportation Safety: Intended for students who wish to gain skills in modeling and simulation analysis for automotive crashworthiness and occupant safety, as well as other impact related applications.

Students may also combine areas of emphasis to create their own customized curriculum under the guidance of a faculty advisor.

Most of the courses are offered in the late afternoon or early evening to accommodate students with full-time employment outside of the university.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to all graduate programs at George Mason University must meet the admission standards and application requirements for graduate study  as specified in the Admissions  section of this catalog. Applicants to the Computational Science, MS  should have academic backgrounds in physical or biological sciences, engineering, mathematics, or computer science. They should have an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution with a GPA of at least 3.00 in their last 60 credits of study. In addition, applicants should have taken at least one course in differential equations and have facility in using a high-level computer programming language.

To apply, prospective students should complete the online application, supply two copies of official transcripts from each university attended, a current résumé, and an expanded goals statement. Applicants should also provide three letters of recommendation and an official report of scores on the GRE-GEN. The GRE-SUB is recommended if it is given in the student’s undergraduate major. The GRE requirement will be waived if the student holds a master’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. TOEFL scores are required of all international applicants. For more information, see the Admission of International Students  section in the Admissions  section of this catalog.

Degree Requirements


Candidates must successfully complete 30 credits chosen in the categories shown below to create a curriculum plan for an area of emphasis or combined areas of emphases in consultation with their academic advisor.

12 Credits of Computational Electives


9 Credits of Electives


Typically chosen from physics, chemistry, mathematics, statistics, engineering, information technology, and computational sciences and informatics courses. No more than 6 credits may be chosen from areas outside of CSI.

Elective credits may also include:

Degree Total: 30 credits