Texas Tech University

Frequently Asked Questions

1 -My undergraduate major is not in computer science, but I would like a computer science post−graduate degree. Will you accept me and is there anything extra required of me?

Answer: Students who do not have an undergraduate degree in computer science or computer engineering are missing the fundamental material necessary for successful graduate study. We accept a limited number of students without a computer science background and we only consider exceptional students for this. In addition, a number of leveling courses must be taken. The subset of courses in this list you must take depends upon your background and academic goals. It is decided by the graduate advisor on an individual basis.

2 -My undergraduate degree major was _________. I applied to the __________ department and I am now a student at Texas Tech University. I am interested in the computer science program. What should I do to transfer my major?

Answer: Students wishing to transfer from another Texas Tech University department into computer science must first take all of the required leveling courses, or show that they have had equivalent courses at another university. The list of leveling courses is available by speaking to the Graduate Advisor. Once you have enrolled for your last leveling course, you need to apply through the Graduate School.

3 -How long does it usually take to transfer?

Answer: One year. However, we will usually allow you to transfer as soon as you have enrolled for your last leveling course. If you have already had introductory programming, then it MAY only take one semester. We will have to see your transcripts before we can make a determination of which leveling courses you need.

4 -What is the deadline to apply?

Answer: We do not have deadlines. We will process your application as soon as possible after we receive it from the Graduate School. However, the Graduate School has the final say (i.e., they may want to enforce their deadlines and not accept your application if it is late).

5 -What is the minimum GRE?

Answer: GRE scores are currently waived until further notice from Graduate School.
Our graduate committee looks at GRE scores, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose in evaluating applications for admission, as well as any other supporting documentation, such as a résumé, that you wish to send. We consider all these factors with none of them being the determining factor for admission. Because each semester applications are evaluated based on the total number of applications received that semester, there is no statistical data on minimum GRE or GPA associated with successful applications. The number of admitted students is also determined by the number of faculty who have openings in their research areas. Financial aid is awarded at the time of admission.

Official scores on the General Test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) must be no more than five years old.

6 -Is the TOEFL/IELTS required for all students?

Answer: The TOEFL or IELTS is required for all international applicants, except those currently studying within the United States and native residents of the United States.

7 -What is the Tuition for the Master's Computer Science program?

Answer: Although tuition fees vary for each student, applicants are encouraged to use the Student Business Services Tuition Estimator tool. Specific questions may be addressed to sbs@ttu.edu

8 -How do I apply for a CPT for the Master's program?

Answer: Students are asked to meet with their graduate advisor when they are sent a CPT offer letter. Graduate advisors will guide you in the process and provide a CPT Letter to forward to your International Counselor at the Office of International Affairs. The CPT process is coordinated through the Office of International Affairs. You may find important information on their website: https://www.depts.ttu.edu/international/isss/f1/cpt.php

9 -How do I apply for an OPT?

Answer: Instructions and forms may be found on TTU International Affairs Office website: https://www.depts.ttu.edu/international/isss/f1/optstudents.php

 

10 -How do I set up an appointment with my advisor?

Answer: Students may use their Raider Success Hub to schedule appointments with their advisors. https://www.depts.ttu.edu/provost/success/

 

 

Department of Computer Science