2026 Graduate Catalog

Graduate Course Descriptions

Computer Science (CSCI)

CSCI500 Foundations of Advanced Computer Science (3 semester hours)

This course serves as an essential primer for students in computer science, providing the foundations for advanced computer science study and subsequent work in CSCI505, CSCI510, and CSCI520. It develops core knowledge and skills in data structures, algorithms, machine learning, and big data analytics. Emphasis is placed on applying theory to computational systems and software development challenges, while introducing techniques that support deeper understanding of advanced computational problems, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics. The course also highlights connections to engineering concepts and professional practice within the field. These elements strengthen the subject foundations and align with program outcomes, ensuring students have the resources needed for progression within the Master of Computer Science degree.

View the course schedule AMU or APU to find out details about each course including prerequisites, course objectives, course materials, a snapshot of the syllabi, and session dates.

CSCI505 Advanced Algorithms and Data Structures (3 semester hours)

This course explains the design, analysis, and implementation of data structures and algorithms essential for solving computational problems in computer science. Building upon foundational knowledge, students explore and implement advanced data structures and advanced algorithms, including binary search trees, linked lists, graphs, and hash tables. The course also addresses data storage methods, external storage techniques, sorting strategies, and a range of algorithmic design paradigms such as dynamic programming. Emphasis is placed on applying theory through programming languages like Python and other high-level tools to support software development and systems development. By working with these concepts, students strengthen their skills in analysis, implementation, and optimization, aligning with program outcomes in the broader subject of computer science. (Prerequisite: CSCI500)

View the course schedule AMU or APU to find out details about each course including prerequisites, course objectives, course materials, a snapshot of the syllabi, and session dates.

CSCI510 Applied Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (3 semester hours)

This course offers a rigorous exploration of machine learning and artificial intelligence, focusing on both theoretical concepts and practical applications. Students study the mathematical and statistical foundations of machine learning models, including supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, and reinforcement learning. The course emphasizes an advanced understanding of neural networks, artificial neural networks, and deep learning architectures, along with optimization techniques and their use in domains such as natural language processing, computer vision, robotics, and healthcare. Through hands-on development, students gain skills in implementing these models using modern tools and frameworks while engaging in projects that address real-world applications of AI. The course also examines ethical issues and the societal impact of AI technologies, reinforcing critical knowledge within the broader computer science program and aligning with graduate-level outcomes in the subject area. (Prerequisite: CSCI500)

View the course schedule AMU or APU to find out details about each course including prerequisites, course objectives, course materials, a snapshot of the syllabi, and session dates.

CSCI520 Big Data Analytics & Data Mining (3 semester hours)

This course provides an in-depth study of big data mining and analytics, emphasizing advanced techniques and practical applications across multiple domains. Students examine methods for data analysis, data processing, and data management with both structured and unstructured data, including large datasets, data warehouses, and data lakes. The curriculum covers statistical analysis, machine learning algorithms, feature engineering, and pattern recognition to support informed decision making in areas such as business, healthcare, and science. Through hands-on projects, students develop skills in using modern software, programming languages, and distributed computing frameworks to address real-world information challenges. This course strengthens knowledge within the computer science discipline, preparing learners to explore and apply analytics in diverse professional contexts while aligning with graduate-level program outcomes. (Prerequisite: CSCI500)

View the course schedule AMU or APU to find out details about each course including prerequisites, course objectives, course materials, a snapshot of the syllabi, and session dates.

CSCI530 Advanced Cybersecurity & Network Defense (3 semester hours)

This advanced cybersecurity course examines strategies, tools, and techniques used in cybersecurity and network defense. Students learn to identify, analyze, and respond to cyber threats through applied training that includes intrusion detection, penetration testing, threat detection, and continuous monitoring. The course explores security controls, information security practices, and policies to mitigate attacks and manage risk across digital systems and enterprise environments. Emphasis is placed on both technical knowledge and practical skills, with hands-on experiences using real-world scenarios. Additional topics include cryptography, malware analysis, and the role of machine learning in advancing cyber defense. By integrating applied methods with broader information and security architecture, the course strengthens expertise for students and professionals pursuing careers in the program of computer science and related fields. (Prerequisite: CSCI510)

View the course schedule AMU or APU to find out details about each course including prerequisites, course objectives, course materials, a snapshot of the syllabi, and session dates.

CSCI550 Advanced Software Engineering and DevSecOps (3 semester hours)

This advanced software engineering course provides a rigorous exploration of modern software engineering principles, practices, and emerging trends. Emphasis is placed on agile development, DevSecOps, and devops methodologies, highlighting their integration throughout the software development life cycle. Students study both theoretical foundations and applied techniques in software architecture, application development, system architecture, and requirements analysis, while also addressing software security, security testing, and related security best practices. Topics include continuous integration, continuous deployment, and CI CD pipelines, along with cloud computing, cloud services, and modern development environments. Through hands-on projects using industry-standard tools, students gain skills and knowledge essential to contemporary software development and information technology within the broader computer science discipline. (Prerequisite: CSCI505 or CSCI510)

View the course schedule AMU or APU to find out details about each course including prerequisites, course objectives, course materials, a snapshot of the syllabi, and session dates.

CSCI560 Human-Computer Interaction and User Experience (3 semester hours)

This human computer interaction course explores methodologies, tools, and techniques for designing effective and intuitive interactive systems. The course covers human computer interaction principles, user centered design, user interface design, interaction design, and human centered design, emphasizing both theoretical concepts and practical application. Students study usability testing, visual design, design thinking, and UX research to better understand user needs and how people interact with computer technology. Through hands on projects and case studies, students gain skills and knowledge in user experience design, building a solid foundation in applying UX design principles to interactive systems. The course situates human factors and interaction within the broader computer science discipline while preparing learners to apply best practices to diverse design processes and professional career pathways. (Prerequisite: CSCI510)

View the course schedule AMU or APU to find out details about each course including prerequisites, course objectives, course materials, a snapshot of the syllabi, and session dates.

CSCI570 Advanced Cloud Computing (3 semester hours)

This advanced cloud computing course provides a comprehensive study of cloud computing, addressing both foundational concepts and advanced topics in cloud technologies. The course examines cloud architecture, cloud infrastructure, cloud applications, and cloud solutions, as well as deployment models that support modern enterprise business processes. Students gain knowledge of serverless computing, distributed systems, virtual machines, and data management, while also exploring emerging cloud technologies. Emphasis is placed on cloud security, compliance, and best practices for deploying and managing cloud computing services. Through hands-on projects, students apply skills and techniques using modern software tools to explore the benefits and challenges of cloud service environments. The course situates cloud computing within the broader computer science discipline, reinforcing understanding of critical practices and applications for academic and professional contexts at the university level. (Prerequisite: CSCI530)

View the course schedule AMU or APU to find out details about each course including prerequisites, course objectives, course materials, a snapshot of the syllabi, and session dates.

CSCI580 Advanced Computer Architecture (3 semester hours)

This advanced computer architecture course provides a rigorous study of computer architecture and the design, analysis, and functionality of modern computer systems. The course emphasizes both theoretical concepts and practical techniques, covering advanced computer architecture topics such as instruction set design, instruction level parallelism, parallel architectures, and processor design, including out of order processors, branch prediction, and speculative execution. Students examine memory systems, including cache structures, cache coherence, memory hierarchies, and virtual memory, as well as interconnection networks and system-level design approaches. Additional areas of focus include optimization, performance, and efficiency in hardware and software solutions, reinforcing connections to algorithms, engineering, and computer science. Through applied analysis of principles and operation, students gain advanced knowledge needed to explore and develop effective designs for contemporary and emerging computer systems. (Prerequisite: CSCI520)

View the course schedule AMU or APU to find out details about each course including prerequisites, course objectives, course materials, a snapshot of the syllabi, and session dates.

CSCI590 Advanced Operating Systems (3 semester hours)

This advanced operating systems course provides a comprehensive understanding of modern operating systems principles and operating system design strategies. It prepares students to address real-world challenges through modern techniques and the latest developments in the field. The course will cover various topics: process management, memory management, advanced file systems, distributed systems, optimization techniques, I/O systems, and security. A comprehensive survey of various operating systems, including Unix, Linux, MacOS, Android, real-time and embedded systems, and Windows, will provide a robust foundation for comparative analysis and performance optimization. In addition, the course material emphasizes key concepts in system-level communication, research, and applied problem solving, ensuring that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to graduate-level program outcomes in computer science and artificial intelligence. (Prerequisite: CSCI550)

View the course schedule AMU or APU to find out details about each course including prerequisites, course objectives, course materials, a snapshot of the syllabi, and session dates.

CSCI601 Capstone Project Phase I (3 semester hours)

This capstone course is designed to integrate knowledge and skills from the cutting-edge technologies and future trends shaping the field of computer science. Students will engage with the latest research and advancements, applying their comprehensive knowledge from previous coursework to real-world problems and case studies. The course offers direct access to industry challenges and opportunities, exposing innovative ideas. This course represents the initial phase of the Capstone project pathway. Within this course, students will engage in the selection of their project topic and the development of preliminary proposals, all under the guidance of their faculty members. (Prerequisites: CSCI505, CSCI510, and CSCI520)

View the course schedule AMU or APU to find out details about each course including prerequisites, course objectives, course materials, a snapshot of the syllabi, and session dates.

CSCI602 Capstone Project Phase II (3 semester hours)

CSCI602 is the final stage of the graduate capstone project pathway, where students will implement their proposals developed in CSCI601. This capstone course represents the concluding stage of the capstone project pathway. This course emphasizes the practical application of research methodologies, data collection, or program development, and the integration of findings into a comprehensive written paper. Additionally, they will begin preparing for their final presentations, which will be based on their written work, and ultimately deliver these presentations as the culmination of their efforts. This course aims to develop students’ ability to conduct independent research, synthesize information, and communicate their findings effectively. (Prerequisite: CSCI601)

View the course schedule AMU or APU to find out details about each course including prerequisites, course objectives, course materials, a snapshot of the syllabi, and session dates.

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