Department of Computer Science

Online Program Testimonials

Hear What Our Students Say

The Illinois online Masters of Computer Science program was named a Top Online IT Program by ComputerWorld magazine.  But don't just take their word for it.  

Here's what some online students have to say:

• "The short version: there are plenty of places you can learn a programming language. Here you learn how to master programming.
  I chose the I2CS program because I hoped it would, as my undergrad work here did,  provide a solid foundation for a long career in the software field. Technology changes fast; it always has and always will. The hot tool or language today will be replaced by a better one tomorrow. I didn’t want to learn the tools, I wanted to learn how to make the best use of them to solve whatever problems may present themselves. I wanted a broad and deep understanding of software, how to build it, how to test it, how to adapt it, and how to do that on both a small and large scale. I wanted to understand the theory behind it. I wanted to understand the architecture of the machines on which it would run today and tomorrow. I also wanted to learn how to keep learning so that I could pick up the next tool, and the next. I found all of these things. This is not an easy program. It requires stretching the brain and spending the time. But it is worth all of the effort. The things the I2CS programs doesn’t have – like specific training in Java or C++ or web technologies, you can find in many places. The things this program does provide, the things I mentioned above, are much harder to find. And, here they are, all in one place." -- Steve Leighton
  
   
• "What drew me to the program was the fact that proctored exams ensure a high level of integrity, something many other online programs are lacking.  I have greatly appreciated the flexibility of the staff to work around business trips and everyday business schedules, something I did not fully anticipate with the mixture of on and off campus students." -- Jason Clow, Caterpillar Inc.   
   
• I enrolled in the online MCS program hoping to get a masters degree in computer science at one of the best universities without the overhead of traveling to and from to college. The course turned out to be everything I hoped for in terms of the convenience and has been a great learning experience. It contains all the elements of an on-campus program in terms of homework assignments, exams, student presentations which we did remotely and healthy interaction with other students.  -- Naveen Kalla, Qualcomm Inc.
  
  
• "I was employed full time during my study in the program.  The flexibility of the program allowed me to pursue the degree without putting a halt to my career development, and the impact on my work schedule due to coursework was minimal. My boss at that time was very supportive in helping me by proctoring my exams, but I never had to take time off to travel for school." -- Derwin Chow, WMS Gaming Inc.
  
  
• "I really enjoy the flexibility that I2CS gives me, it's like having Tivo for class!  I can watch half of a lecture, pause it, eat dinner with some friends, and then come back and finish up lecture without missing a beat."