Khoury College of Computer Sciences
Computer Science Align
Northeastern University’s Align program gives students without a background in computer science (CS) a direct path to an MS in computer science and a rewarding tech career. Gain professional computer science experiences and connections in the center of the Silicon Valley business corridor, the world’s scaleup capital and center of funding activity for the tech industry.
Overview
You don’t need a background in tech to have a future in it. Break into tech with Align, a program designed for motivated students and professionals with a bachelor’s degree in any discipline. Earn your master’s in computer science from Northeastern on the Silicon Valley campus, where diverse and unexpected ideas are encouraged.
You’ll begin the program with a two-semester introductory sequence designed specifically for students without a background in computer science. Your cohort will be made of students like you who are coming from outside the field. You’ll then be able to choose from a range of electives—such as Artificial Intelligence, Computer-Human Interface, Graphics, Software Engineering, and more—in important breadth areas.
Attend a Break into Tech Event
Curious about whether Align is right for you? Join this free 1.5-hour workshop (virtual or in-person) on how computer science touches our world. You’ll even get to try out a project with peers from diverse backgrounds like you.
Learning Outcomes
The Align MS in Computer Science will equip you with technical knowledge and career preparation. As a graduate, you will:
- Exhibit proficiency in the design, implementation, and testing of software
- Demonstrate skills and experience working in small teams
- Apply algorithmic and theoretical computer-science principles to solve computing problems from a variety of application areas
- Demonstrate the ability to learn and develop competencies in specialized or emerging computer science fields
Co-op and Careers
Khoury College of Computer Sciences can help connect you with a paid co-op or internship, and project opportunities with the College’s 700+ partners, including established corporations and unique startups, nonprofits, and organizations.
Align MSCS prepares you to meet “preferred” qualifications for job postings with top companies. Many companies offer co-op students full-time employment after graduation.
Sample co-op employment partners in the Bay Area
Google, Amazon Robotics, Meta, LinkedIn, Snowflake, Apple, TikTok, Coursera, Argo AI, and Mercari
On either side of your work experiences, you’ll be learning industry-relevant CS skills in a program supported by corporate and philanthropic partners like Google, Dell, Travelers, Facebook, and Pivotal Ventures. Your co-op is closely integrated with the course curriculum and advising system. Graduate co-op faculty within the Khoury College will support you in preparing for and succeeding in your co-op.
Tuition
$71,883
This tuition estimate is inclusive of a 15% scholarship for all students beginning their graduate studies in Spring 2027. This scholarship is not transferable to alternative programs of study, terms or campuses outside of the Silicon Valley campus.
Additional scholarships may be available based on academic merit and other qualifying factors. Select scholarships may be stacked up to 50%.
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2026-2027 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Find detailed information on tuition and fees from Student Financial Services.
Learn More
Interested in the MS in Computer Science Align program? Our enrollment counselors can answer any questions that you have and help you connect with further resources. Please fill out the form below and we will be in touch with you soon.
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