ENGAGING AND COLLABORATIVE
Best-in-Class Online Experience
Rice University has long provided a high-quality Computer Science education.
We are known for our rigorous education, small class sizes, and student-faculty interaction.
- More than discussion board posts
Develop graduate-level analytical thinking with an best-in-class online to get the most out of your education. - Engaging format for inquisitive minds
The MCS@Rice program is about engaging in lectures and discussions, asking questions, and finding ways to apply what you’re learning. Discussions are lively because everyone comes together from different backgrounds and solves problems from different perspectives. - Designed for working professionals
Fit the program around your schedule and develop the practical skills necessary to advance your career in the tech world. Check with your employer for tuition-assistance or reimbursement programs. - Small class sizes for student-faculty interaction
Engage with faculty and peers in meaningful 1:1 interactions throughout each course and project.
ENGAGING AND COLLABORATIVE
Best-in-Class Online Experience
The MCS@Rice program balances the self-paced online environment with several opportunities for 1:1 engagement with faculty and peers, putting you in control to engage with whatever style works best for you. There is a content release schedule for each course so that all students move through the course experience together.
EVERY COURSE IS A
Rewarding, Interactive Experience
Rice University has long provided a high-quality Computer Science education. Our best-in-class online experience is based on teaching over a million online students to create this one of a kind program.
With the flexibility of online learning, students can develop a deep understanding of topics such as:
Self-Paced Lectures
and Weekly Live Sessions

The MCS@Rice program is offered completely online. Courses are made up of modules designed to be fit into a working professional lifestyle. Courses include supplementary readings, video lectures, assignments, and discussion forums that help you spark connections with your peers. Watch the recorded lectures when it’s convenient for you and go back anytime to reinforce important concepts.
Students also attend live classroom sessions with professors, participate in group projects and access instructors during live office hours. Faculty are hands-on and interactive in classes and projects, holding weekly live class sessions that cover multiple time zones.


Live weekly classroom sessions are a defining feature of our rigorous program. These optional sessions provide valuable direct interaction to teachers and peers, and many students say it’s one of their favorite aspects of the program. Work through the lectures and practice material at your own pace, then connect with fellow students to work through the most challenging concepts and practice problems.
My professor is very knowledgeable. He has a breadth of experience and can speak intelligently, even answering some of the more philosophical questions.
Jay Hyatt, Current Student
MCS@Rice Workload

To earn a MCS@Rice degree, students must complete 10 courses for a total of 30 credit hours, all of which can be completed online. There are due dates for all graded work and there are regularly scheduled lives sessions with the faculty and students that are an integral part of each course.
The MCS@Rice program is designed to be taken as a part-time program, taking only one or two courses each term. A student can choose to take more as their schedule permits. Learn more about the MCS@Rice Curriculum.
I’ve already been able to apply what I learned in COMP 630 Databases at work.
Doron Chosnek, Current Student
Important Dates
SESSION | APPLICATION DUE | CLASSES START |
---|---|---|
SPRING 2021 | November 1, 2020 | January 25, 2021 |
SUMMER 2021 | March 1, 2021 | May 3, 2021 |
FALL 2021 | July 1, 2021 | August 23, 2021 |