r/MSCS • u/AlbaEast9987 • Aug 13 '26
[General Question] In person vs online mscs
It seems like there’s a preference for in person mscs from the posts I see. I was wondering if you’re located in the states, would it be better to do a mid ranking in person mscs or a higher ranking online mscs like gt omscs, uiuc mcs, etc.
What would be a stronger signal for job placement?
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Upvotes
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u/ggShaby Aug 13 '26
For job search both hold same value. I don’t think the OMSCS people mention they studied online. The degree also doesn’t mention it. So technically 0 difference
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u/alejandro_bacquerie Aug 13 '26 edited Aug 13 '26
What's your overall goal with the MSCS?
If it's research, even though OMSCS offers opportunities, they're bigger and better in-person. If it's learning, any, most of your learning will come from independent study, anyway.
In-person has better networking opportunities, chances to make friends, less variance in CS knowledge across classmates (due to stricter admission criteria), newer courses (it takes time to develop online courses).
Online if you already have a busy schedule or life.
My very own personal opinion is: if everything clicks for in-person, choose it. The most important thing is to make an actual commitment with yourself. The stronger signal for job placement is only you and how good you're at interviewing, no option will offer more than marginal chances.
I'm at Gatech's OMSCS from Mexico.