Computer Science Department Offers Degree Online

In 1999, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign will offer an Internet-based Master of Computer Science (MS-CS) degree program as well as non-degree information system technology courses in a convenient distance learning format. The classes are of the same high quality as on-campus classes and the degree is the same.

The Department of Computer Science has long been recognized as one of the premier computer science graduate programs in the country. Beginning with the ILLIAC I in 1952, the first computer owned and operated by a university, Illinois designed and built multiple generations of innovative computer systems, testing ideas now found on every desktop system.

Each course in the new online MS-CS curriculum includes digitized video and slides of the on-campus course lectures, and interaction with other students via asynchronous discussion groups. Course material is provided by on-campus professors, and additional teaching assistants are assigned to all distance learning courses. All grading is done by U of I faculty and staff.

Students may pursue three paths. They may elect to take courses without credit; they can take individual courses for credit, though not formally pursue the degree program; or students may enroll in the 9-unit (36-hour) degree program.

According to Michael Faiman, Director of Graduate Programs in Computer Science, "We expect that most students will choose the second option, because they will be taking courses while working full time in a field related to information systems." Faiman pointed out that degree students may pursue the program full time by enrolling in 3 units of course work per semester, or they may proceed on a part-time basis by enrolling in only one or two courses a semester. "Either way, students will obtain knowledge needed to upgrade skills and job classifications."

The Department of Computer Science has some experience with distance learning, as it opened an off-campus version of the UI MS-CS degree program in India in January of 1998. The program is administered in conjunction with the Quantum Institute, a private New Delhi corporation with which the department has signed a contract. Now in its third semester, this program is 30 students strong, and is hoping to expand. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. "The [Quantum Institute] program is 100% digital, with lectures delivered by streaming video over the Internet. Students view a digitized slide alongside a video of the professor lecturing. Class web pages and e-mail facilitate discussions, and lecture meetings are moderated by a Quantum Institute staff person," said Faiman.

The Internet-based Master of Computer Science degree program and non-degree information system technology courses are offered through Extramural Programs in the College of Engineering. Linda Krute, Associate Director of Continuing Engineering Education, should be contacted at 217-333-6634 or l-krute@uiuc.edu for further information.

Adapted from article by Michael Faiman, Alumni News, Fall 1998.