University of Texas at El Paso Academic Catalog

Academic Catalog

M.S. in Computational Science

The University of Texas at El Paso offers studies leading to degrees of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master of Science (MS) in Computational Science (CPS). This is an interdisciplinary program that combines computer science, mathematics, and other science and engineering disciplines across different departments in the Colleges of Science, Engineering, and Health Sciences, yielding an integrated knowledge base for the effective solution of complex systems in which computer usage plays a fundamental role. A CPS student is expected to acquire an integrated understanding of techniques such as mathematical modeling, algorithmic design, computer simulation, scientific visualization, statistical processing of large datasets, and high-performance computing on parallel and distributed systems.

Admission Requirements 

  1. Bachelors or master’s degree in any field of mathematics, science, or engineering from an accredited institution in the United States, or proof of equivalent education in a foreign institution;
  2. Demonstration of academic achievement and potential as indicated by the results of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and upper-level undergraduate and/or graduate coursework;
  3. Applicants from countries where English is not the first language are required to demonstrate English proficiency. Please consult the graduate school website for required scores;
  4. A statement of academic and professional interests and goals from the applicant; and
  5. Three letters of recommendation from people knowledgeable of the field.

Prospective students who have insufficient skills in mathematics, natural sciences, computers, and programming should contact the Program Director to discuss procedures leading to acceptance into the program. Students who will not be fully prepared for the PhD program can be admitted to the MS program.

 A CPS student is expected to maintain an overall cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better, and to complete the program, must take at least six (6) hours in each of the following areas: Computer Science, Mathematics, and Science/Engineering classes.

Degree Plan

Required Credits: 31-34

MS in Computational Science (All courses require a grade of C or better)
Required Courses:
CPS 5310Mathematical & Comp. Modeling3
CPS 5320Advanced Scientific Computing3
CPS 5401Introduction to Comp Science4
CPS 5397Graduate Research3
MATH 5329Numerical Analysis3
Prescribed Electives:
Select two courses from Prescribed Electives6
Thesis/Non-Thesis/Professional Option:
Select one of the options6-9
Select one course from Prescribed Electives or Free Electives3
Total Hours31-34

Academic Track - Thesis Option

CPS 5398Graduate Thesis3
CPS 5399Graduate Thesis3
Thesis Defense
Total Hours6

Academic Track - Non-Thesis Option

Select three additional courses from the list of Prescribed or Free electives9
Comprehensive Exam
Total Hours9

Professional Track 

Select three additional courses from the list of Prescribed or Free electives9
Computational science related internship outside UTEP
Total Hours9

Prescribed Electives

CS 5334Parallel & Concurrent Program3
CS 5350Advanced Algorithms3
MATH 5330Comp Methods of Linear Algebra3
MATH 5343Numer Solution Part Diff Equat3
MATH 5345Numerical Optimization3
STAT 5329Statistical Programming3
STAT 5385Applied Regression Models3

Free Electives

All graduate level courses offered in the Colleges of Science and Engineering can be used as free electives. Students should consult with research mentor and graduate advisor to decide on courses that will best fit their career goals.

Program Director 

Ming-Ying Leung

Phone: 915.747.6836 

Email: mleung@utep.edu