Ball State Master’s in Computer Science
Ball State University is located in Muncie, Indiana. It was established in the latter part of the 19th century. At that time, local business owners decided to found a university as a way to provide a boost to the local economy.
The first attempt to establish an institution of higher learning was a teacher’s college that unfortunately didn’t stay open. Frank C. Ball and his brothers bought the land and buildings where the school was located and it was reopened in 1918 under the name, "Indiana State Normal School Eastern Division." In 1922 the school was renamed "Ball Teachers College." The name changed to "Ball State Teachers College" in 1929.
Ball State University’s Masters degree program in Computer Science offers students the option of choosing whether they want to complete a thesis or not.
Students who intend to continue their studies by working toward a doctorate or who wish to become teachers are encouraged to choose the thesis option. The non-thesis choice is geared toward those who plan to go into the workplace after graduation.
Admission Requirements for Ball State University
Applicants to the Ball State University’s Computer Science program must have completed an undergraduate degree from a recognized college or university. A minimum Grade Point Average of at least 2.75 or 3.0 in the last half of the courses taken as an undergrad is also required.
A prospective student who lacks a background in computer science may need to take courses to bring him or her up to the level of knowledge required for success in the program. In this situation, a minimum of a B grade is required for any upgrade courses taken.
Applying to Graduate School at Ball State University
People interested in being considered for Ball State University’s Master’s degree program in Computer Science must submit an application form and the required fee at least four weeks before the start of the semester they would like to enroll in. Official transcripts are also required.
The Computer Science Department also requires applicants to the Master’s degree program to submit the following:
- Three letters of recommendation
- A one-page summary of the applicant’s educational goals
- GRE scores
Internships
Completing an internship is not a requirement to graduate from this program, but students are encouraged to do so. The school provides a list of local and national internships available in the software development industry.