Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Cosmic: Us-Based Conversion Master's Degree In Computing, Gary S. Krenz, Thomas Kaczmarek

Mathematical and Statistical Science Faculty Research and Publications

COSMIC is an NSF S-STEM graduate curriculum initiative/conversion program that strives to provide an accelerated pathway to a Master of Science (MS) degree for individuals who do not have an undergraduate degree in computing, but who wish to cross over into the computing field. The structure of our conversion program, the context that motivated it, and insights from conversion students' instructors are presented. Program successes with students from under-represented populations and the limitations that are also experienced are discussed. Our conversion program is based on a highly focused summer bridge course, combined with a customized curriculum pathway that enables people …