Computer Science Accelerated Master's Programs

Fast-track your graduate studies in computer science while obtaining your degree at a lower cost.

 

The Bachelor’s–Accelerated Master’s (BAM) Program offers currently enrolled CU Boulder undergraduates the opportunity to receive a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in a shorter time. Students who are accepted can complete graduate-level coursework as an undergraduate and later apply these credits to satisfy master’s degree requirements. Once students complete their bachelor’s degree, they will seamlessly transition into their master’s program.

There are three different BAM program options available to computer science students. You can choose between an MS or Professional MS in Computer Science or a Professional MS in Network Engineering.

Degree Requirements 

Research-based CS MS Professional MS in Computer Science Professional MS in Network Engineering

Advantages of the BAM Program

  • Complete a Master’s degree program faster
    BAM students may take up to and including (12) credit hours of graduate-level (5000 numbered) classes while you pursue your bachelor’s degree in computer science which can later be used toward the master’s degree. Of the (12) credit hours, (6) credit hours may be double counted toward both the bachelor’s degree and the master’s degree.
  • Pay less overall tuition
    Graduate programs are typically more expensive per credit than undergraduate programs. BAM offers students an opportunity to complete graduate level coursework at undergraduate tuition rates before formally transitioning to the graduate program.
  • Continue working with faculty mentors
    Staying at CU Boulder to pursue a BAM program will allow you to continue working with your established faculty mentors.
  • Easy application with no fees
    Stand-alone master’s programs require a more extensive application process including letters of recommendations and fees.

Admission Requirements

To gain admission to the BAM program, you must meet the following criteria:

  • You must have at least junior class standing. (BS/BA Students)
  • ​ You must have at least a 3.5 cumulative GPA.
    • If you do not have at least a 3.5 cumulative GPA, you must have one letter of reference from a faculty member or your academic advisor outlining why you should be considered. Your letter-writer should send their letter directly to gradadms@colorado.edu.
  • If you are interested in applying for the Research Based MS option, you need a letter of support from the faculty you wish to do your research with. Your letter-writer should send their letter directly to gradadms@colorado.edu.
  • Complete all prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of B or higher. 

Prerequisite classes for applicants:

Applying to the BAM Program

Step 1- Check your eligibility, including the prerequisite courses. If you have questions on eligibility, please contact your current undergraduate academic advisor.

Step 2- Read information on various MS degree options very carefully before submitting the application.

Step 3- Check the Application deadlines Applications are only accepted during the BAM Application cycle. Any applications submitted after the deadlines will not be considered.

Fall CycleSpring Cycle

October 1st Application opens 

October 15th Application deadline

February 14th Application opens

 February 28th Application deadline

Step 4- Complete the BAM Intent Form:

  • CS BS students select COMPUTER SCIENCE BS (CSEN-BS)
  • CS BA students select COMPUTER SCIENCE BA (CSEN-BA)
  • POST-BACC students select APPLIED COMPUTER SCIENCE POST-BACC (CSAP-BSACS)

Step 5- Submit the CS departmental BAM application.

  • Your BAM Intent form and CS Department App must have the same program listed
  • ALL of your materials including BAM application, BAM Intent form and letters of support must be submitted by the deadline to be considered

CS Department BAM Application Deadlines

  • For Fall admission: Feb. 28 (all materials due)
  • For Spring admission: Oct. 15 (all materials due)

Transitioning from the Bachelor’s to the Master’s

Students indicate on their BAM application the semester they will formally begin the master’s program. You have up to (3) semesters, including the summer, after completing your bachelor’s degree to start your master’s program. If you experience a change of plans, you must update your starting semester with the Office of the Registrar by completing a BAM Program Change/Discontinuation Form.

The following forms must be submitted in the final semester of your undergraduate degree by the deadline posted below. Students should contact their undergraduate advisor with any questions before submitting these forms.

  • Master’s Continuation Form
    • This form indicates to the University that while you are completing your bachelor’s degree, you will remain an active student at the graduate level.
  • BAM Program Supplement Form
    • This form indicates to the Graduate School how you would like to distribute your qualifying graduate-level coursework completed during your undergraduate career – i.e., what you would like to double-count and/or have applied to only the master’s degree.
      • Reminder: BAM students may take up to and including (12) credit hours of graduate-level classes while you pursue your bachelor’s degree which can later be used toward the master’s degree. Of the (12) credit hours, (6) credit hours may be double-counted toward both the bachelor’s degree and the master’s degree. Students should contact their current undergraduate academic advisor before submitting this form to ensure their undergraduate requirements will be sufficiently met.

BAM Master’s Continuation & BAM Supplement Forms Submission Deadlines

  • Feb. 1 - Students graduating in May
  • Mar. 1 - Students graduating in August
  • Oct. 1 - Students graduating in December