The Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science at Tufts University is a fully online program designed for students and professionals with at least a bachelor’s degree who want foundational preparation in computer science. Students build knowledge in areas including data structures, algorithms, hardware, and systems while preparing for further study or opportunities that require computing expertise.

The program offers two pathways:

Certificate Track: A standalone post-baccalaureate certificate requiring 17–23 credits for students seeking a foundation in computer science.
Master’s Track: A pathway for students who intend to continue into the Online M.S. in Computer Science, beginning with 7 credits of post-baccalaureate study before entering the master’s curriculum.

The program may be completed through full-time or part-time online study. Students typically complete the certificate in 12 to 24 months.

Who is this Program For?

The Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science is designed for applicants with at least a bachelor’s degree who are new to computer science or need foundational preparation before pursuing advanced study.

The is program may be a strong fit for applicants who want to:

Build a foundation in computer science through online study
Prepare for a career transition into computing or data-related work
Develop knowledge in data structures, algorithms, hardware, and systems
Strengthen preparation for graduate study in computer science
Pursue a pathway into the Online M.S. in Computer Science at Tufts

Applicants who already have substantial academic preparation in computer science and want graduate-level specialization should explore the Online Certificate in Computer Science.

Application Requirements

Application Fee
Resume/CV
Personal Statement
Transcripts
One letter of recommendation (Certificate Track) or three letters of recommendation (Master's Track)
GRE scores (Master's track only, if applicable)
- GRE General Test scores are not required for applicants who will have received a degree from a U.S. institution by time of enrollment. GRE scores are required for all other applicants.
Official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo test scores (if applicable)
Portfolio (optional)

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What Will You Study?

Students complete a concentrated program of study that develops foundational knowledge across core computer science areas. Students develop an individualized plan of study with an advisor based on their academic history, selected track, and future goals.

Coursework addresses topics such as:

Programming and computational problem-solving
Data structures
Algorithms
Discrete mathematics

Computer hardware and systems
Core computer science competency areas
Elective study aligned with academic or professional goals

Certificate Track

The Certificate Track is designed for students who are new to computer science and want a standalone credential that builds foundational knowledge for professional or academic next steps. Students complete 17–23 credits.

Master’s Track

The Master’s Track is designed for students who are new to computer science and intend to continue into the Online M.S. in Computer Science. Students complete 7 credits of post-baccalaureate study before beginning the master’s curriculum.

About the Department of Computer Science

The Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science is offered through the Department of Computer Science at Tufts University School of Engineering. The department supports education and research across areas including artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, cybersecurity, computational biology, human-computer interaction, human-robot interaction, algorithms, visualization, and software systems.

Students build foundational computing knowledge in a department connected to interdisciplinary applications of computer science across engineering, science, health, and society.

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Why Study Computer Science Online at Tufts?

Designed for Students Entering Computer Science

The program is intended for applicants who have earned a bachelor’s degree but need foundational preparation in computer science. Students build knowledge in essential computing areas before pursuing further study or new professional directions.

Two Pathways Based on Your Goals

Students may choose a standalone certificate pathway or a pathway designed for continuation into the Online M.S. in Computer Science. This structure allows applicants to select the option that aligns with their academic and professional plans.

Fully Online Study

The program is delivered 100% online and is available through full-time or part-time study. This format allows students to pursue foundational computer science coursework while managing professional and personal commitments.

Foundation for Continued Graduate Study

Students in the Master’s Track begin with post-baccalaureate coursework intended to prepare them for progression into the Online M.S. in Computer Science. Students in the Certificate Track may also use the program to strengthen preparation for future graduate study.

What Can You Do With an Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science?

The Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science can support students and professionals who want to build foundational computing knowledge for a career transition or continued education.

Students may use this credential to strengthen preparation relevant to areas such as:

Software and computing applications
Data-focused work
Technical problem-solving

Systems and hardware concepts
Graduate study in computer science
Continued study in data science or related computing fields

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Difference Between the Certificate Track and the Master’s Track?

The Certificate Track is a standalone post-baccalaureate certificate requiring 17–23 credits. The Master’s Track is designed for students who intend to continue into the Online M.S. in Computer Science and requires 7 credits of post-baccalaureate study before beginning the master’s curriculum.

Is this Program Designed for Students Without a Computer Science Background?

Yes. The program is designed for applicants with at least a bachelor’s degree who are new to computer science or need foundational preparation in the field.

Is the GRE Required?

GRE requirements vary by track. For the Master’s Track, GRE General Test scores are not required for applicants who will have received a degree from a U.S. institution by the time of enrollment; GRE scores are required for other applicants. For the Certificate Track, GRE General Test scores are not required for applicants regardless of where they completed their undergraduate degree.

How Do I Apply?

Applicants can apply online through Tufts Graduate Admissions Portal. Required materials typically include transcripts, a resume or CV, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. International applicants may also need to submit English proficiency documentation. Visit the admissions page for current deadlines and application requirements.