MCS in Chicago
The top-ranked, cutting-edge Master of Computer Science degree that only the Siebel School of Computing and Data Science can provide, offered in the nation’s rising tech hub: Chicago.
Explore MCS in Chicago
Applications open through September 15
With the Siebel School of Computing and Data Science's professional Master of Computer Science (MCS) in downtown Chicago, students learn from world-class faculty and will master in-demand skills while benefiting from enhanced opportunities for corporate engagement, such as attending professional networking events, industry-led presentations and entrepreneurship events.
The MCS in Chicago is perfect for those who are wanting to experience the nation’s third-largest city and the many personal and professional opportunities it provides. Flexibility is at the core of this program, with features including
- Courses taught in a combination of in-person in downtown Chicago and hybrid.
- Optional part-time enrollment, making it possible for busy professionals to complete their degree in up to five years while continuing to meet their personal and career obligations.
- Allowance of specialization in field(s) of the students' choice.
Not sure if MCS in Chicago is for you? We also offer an Online MCS, an Online MCS in Data Science and an MCS on the Urbana-Champaign campus.
“The MCS in Chicago program has been pivotal in my growth as both a software engineer and an entrepreneur. It provided me with the flexibility to continue advancing my CS education at a school I already knew and loved, while immersing myself in Chicago’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. The hybrid classes allowed me to build meaningful relationships with my peers and professors - something I deeply missed during the pandemic. This program has truly given me the best of both worlds.”
Ayesha Kazi, MCS in Chicago '25 & Co-Founder of ASL Aspire
Illini Life in Chicago
Chicago is a bustling metropolitan hub with more than three million residents, making it the third-largest city in the U.S. Whether you prefer a fast-paced city lifestyle or a more laid-back community feel, there’s something for everyone with Chicago’s 77 distinct communities.
Regardless of where you choose to live, Chicagoland's robust public transportation system provides easy access to all neighborhoods and many suburbs. The MCS Chicago program is housed in Chicago's Loop neighborhood, which is within walking distance of all city public transit plus bus and train lines that can connect you with hundreds of cities across the U.S.
Partnership with University of Illinois Chicago
The MCS in Chicago program leverages the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign/University of Illinois Chicago relationship to ensure access to key resources, including the Chicago campus recreation center, health center, and library.
As a full-time high school teacher wanting to balance work with school, I was able to have an outstanding educational experience at a nationally top-ranked program with professors who were more than willing to work with me and my busy schedule. Having a place to go in the city to meet with my professors and classmates and the in-person events the office would host were some of my favorite parts, as I really value in-person interactions. I'm grateful to have been a part of and graduated from this excellent program!
Weronika Trzaska, MCS in Chicago '25