MS Courses in USA 2025: Specializations, Top Universities, Admission, Fees & Job Scope

A Master of Science (MS) is a two-year postgraduate program designed for students who already have a background in science and want to deepen their knowledge in a specific field. However, a few of the universities have a duration of 1 - 2+ years.

This degree is more technical, helping you develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills through hands-on lab work and research projects. You can choose to specialize in a variety of areas, including chemistry, biology, engineering, health sciences, statistics, data science, and more. Depending on your interests and career goals, the program can be structured around coursework, research, or a combination of both.

Top universities of the USA that offer MS Courses are Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Harvard University, Stanford University, University of Chicago, University of Pennsylvania (UPenn), California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Columbia University, New York University (NYU) and many more.

The cost of studying for an MS in the USA typically falls between USD 25,000 and USD 63,000 (₹20.5 lakhs to ₹51.7 lakhs), depending on the university you choose and your area of specialization. If you're planning to apply for a master's program in the USA for 2026, you'll typically need to have completed 16 years of education (like a 4-year bachelor's degree) and have a GPA of at least 3.0 out of 4.0, which is around 80% or higher.

Graduates with an MS degree in the United States earn a median annual salary of around USD 71,330. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs requiring a master’s degree are expected to grow by nearly 9% between 2020 and 2030, faster than the average for most other occupations. In this blog, we know more about the MS Courses in the USA, such as Top universities, Admission, Fees, Scholarships, Eligibility Criteria etc.

MS Courses in USA: Key Highlights

Study the table carefully, as we have mentioned the key highlights of the MS Courses in USA, to get the important aspects first out of the in-depth information. Through this, you will get to know about the basic eligibility, top disciplines to study in USA, top universities, and more.

Why Study an MS Courses in USA?

There are a number of advantages to pursuing MS courses in USA for Indian students. Here are some of them:

1. STEM courses

STEM courses are highly popular among international students in the USA because they’re in high demand and also offer added benefits. One major advantage is the 24-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension, which allows students to work in the U.S. for up to two years after completing their MS.
2. Cost-Effective
MS courses are usually more affordable, saving on tuition and living expenses.
3. Research-oriented
Most MS programs in the USA are structured into three parts: prerequisites, core subjects, and electives. This flexible structure gives students a strong foundation while also allowing them to explore their interests. It also makes it easier for students to take up research-based tracks, boosting the chances of pursuing research-focused MS degrees by over 30%
4. Career Opportunities
You can get job-ready with the MS course in USA and open doors to top roles in global companies.
5. Global Exposure & Recognized Degrees
You have the opportunity to study in a diverse, international environment with qualifications that are respected worldwide.

6. Scholarships

Students pursuing an MS in the USA receive an average scholarship of about USD 10,000 for one academic year.

7. Faster ROI (Return on Investment)
You can complete your course easily and start earning sooner, making it a smart investment.

Also Read :

Other Popular Countries for Studying MS

MS Courses in USA: Best Universities/Colleges

Here are some of the most popular MS programs in the USA, along with the top universities that offer them:

MS Courses in USA: Eligibility Criteria

Admission requirements for a master’s degree in the USA can vary depending on the university and the program. However, most universities generally ask for the following:

MS Courses in USA: Application Process

The application process for an MS Courses in the USA includes submitting an online form through platforms like Common App, uploading documents, and paying an application fee. Some universities may conduct interviews or video assessments. Deadlines typically range from November to January, depending on early action or regular decision.

GMAT/GRE Requirements

Since this is a master’s program, GMAT and GRE are often required.

GRE/GMAT Waiver for MS in USA Admissions

If you're planning to apply for a Master’s program in the USA, you might be wondering whether the GRE or GMAT is still required. The good news is that many universities now offer waivers. However, students who request a waiver are usually expected to demonstrate strong skills in areas like analytical thinking, problem-solving, English communication, and quantitative aptitude through other means such as academic records, work experience, or interviews.

• Among the top 12 business schools in the U.S., only 5 schools require the GMAT or GRE for admission.
• GMAT waivers are more commonly granted for online management programs.
• On-campus MBA courses generally still expect test scores.
• Recent trends show a decline in test score submissions:

1. Less than 14% of applicants submitted GMAT scores.
2. Around 23% submitted GRE scores.

• Over 70% of U.S. universities offering MS programs have made the GRE optional.
• To qualify for a test waiver, applicants usually need to demonstrate:

1. Strong academic performance
2. Relevant work experience
3. Involvement in research activities

GMAT Preparation Strategy

Although the GMAT is often required for a MS Courses in USA, some students preparing for dual-degree or early-entry master's programs in tech-business might still choose to take it. If so, preparation should focus on problem-solving, data analysis, and critical reasoning, with a study plan spanning at least 3–6 months before the test date.

SOP, LOR, and Resume

Your Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and Resume play a critical role in the admission process for top U.S. universities. The SOP helps explain your goals and passion for computer science. LORs should be from teachers or school principals. 

MS Courses in USA: University-Specific Admission Steps

Admission procedures for universities in the USA offering a Bachelor of Computer Science are generally similar but may vary in terms of deadlines, document formats, and interviews.

MS Courses in USA: Visa Application Timeline

Students applying for MS Courses in USA must apply for an F-1 student visa once they receive the I-20 form from their university. It's advisable to begin the process at least 3 months before the intake. The visa process involves SEVIS registration, the DS-160 form, and a visa interview.

MS Courses in USA: Top Course Entrance Exams for USA

To apply for a MS Courses in USA, students must submit scores for English proficiency exams such as TOEFL or IELTS. 

IELTS/TOEFL Tips

Scoring well in IELTS or TOEFL is crucial for admission to US universities. Many free resources and sample papers are available online to help students improve and boost confidence.

• Start preparation 2–3 months in advance
• Focus equally on all four test sections
• Practice speaking with a partner or tutor
• Use official practice tests and vocabulary lists
• Watch English movies, podcasts, and TED Talks
• Simulate full-length mock tests under timed conditions
• Read sample essays to understand structure and flow
• Record your speaking practice to self-evaluate

MS Courses in USA: GRE/TOEFL Score Cutoffs

English proficiency is required for admission. Most US universities accept GRE or TOEFL scores, with a minimum of GRE or 79–104 (TOEFL), depending on the institution.

MS Courses in USA: Popular Courses

Some courses in USA are very popular for Indian students:

• Study MS in the USA
• MBBS in USA
• Phd in the USA
• Study Post-Graduation in the USA
• MS in Data Science in USA
• Study Masters in the USA
• Study MBA in the USA
• Study IT in the USA
• Study Artificial Intelligence in the USA
• Study Business Analytics in the US
• Data Science in USA

MS Courses in USA: Syllabus

Core Courses (Mandatory Subjects):

These build foundational knowledge in the chosen field.

1. Examples for MS in Computer Science:

• Algorithms and Data Structures
• Operating Systems
• Database Systems
• Computer Networks
• Software Engineering

2. Examples for MS in Mechanical Engineering:

• Advanced Thermodynamics
• Finite Element Analysis
• Dynamics and Vibrations
• Heat Transfer
• Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)

MS Courses in USA: Elective Courses (Specializations)

Students can choose electives based on their interests or career goals.

1. Computer Science Electives:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Machine Learning
• Cybersecurity
• Cloud Computing
• Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)

2. Data Science Electives:

• Big Data Analytics
• Natural Language Processing (NLP)
• Deep Learning
• Data Visualization
• Business Intelligence

3. Mechanical Engineering Electives:

• Robotics
• Advanced Materials
• Mechatronics
• Energy Systems

4. Research/Project/Thesis

Students may choose between:

• Thesis Track: Requires in-depth research and submission of a thesis (ideal for those planning to pursue a PhD).
• Non-Thesis Track: Involves a capstone project or extra coursework instead of a thesis.

MS Courses in USA: Scholarships

Studying in the USA can be quite expensive, especially for international students. To secure a student visa and gain admission, you’ll need to show that you can afford the cost of your education and living expenses.

That’s why scholarships play such an important role; they can help ease the financial burden through tuition waivers, living allowances, or study grants. One of the most well-known and prestigious scholarships is the Fulbright Program, which supports students across a wide range of academic fields.

Besides the Fulbright, there are several other popular scholarships available to international students planning to study in the U.S.

MS Courses in USA: Cost of Living

The average expenditure of students in the USA is given below in the table:

MS Courses in USA: Career Scope & Salary Package

Many MS students start feeling anxious about finding a job just a few weeks after starting their program, sometimes as early as three to five weeks in. The good news is, there are plenty of ways to find work opportunities in the U.S.

Some universities have tie-ups with companies that help connect students to internships or part-time roles. On-campus jobs are also a common and accessible option for international students. Beyond campus, platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed are widely used to search for jobs.

Attending annual career fairs hosted by universities can also make the job hunt much easier. On average, MS graduates in the U.S. can expect to earn around $74,000 per year, depending on their field and experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Que 1: What is the average cost to pursue MS Courses in USA?

Ans 1: The cost of pursuing an MS degree in the USA can differ quite a bit depending on where you study and how you choose to live. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you plan better:

• Tuition Fees: These can range from around $20,000 to $60,000 per year. Public universities are usually more affordable than private ones, especially if you're attending as an out-of-state student.
• Living Expenses: This covers your housing, food, transport, and utilities. Living in big cities or on the coasts (like New York or California) tends to cost more compared to smaller towns. On average, you might spend anywhere between $1,000 and $2,500 a month.
• Health Insurance: As an international student, having health insurance is mandatory. Most universities offer their plans, which usually cost between $500 and $1,000 per year.
• Books and Supplies: Textbooks and study materials can add up. Depending on your course, this might cost you around $500 to $1,000 annually.

Que 2: What is the expected salary after completion of the course MS in USA?

Ans 2: The expected salary after completion of the course MS in USA is USD 83,010 to USD 111,000+. MBA graduates in the USA generally earn higher salaries than those with an MS degree. However, it’s important to note that the cost of pursuing an MBA is also typically higher compared to most MS programs.

Que 3: Can an MS student work while pursuing studies in the USA?

Ans 3: Yes, MS students in the U.S. on an F-1 visa are allowed to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session, and full-time during holidays or semester breaks. After finishing their degree, those in STEM programs can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which lets them work in the U.S. for up to 3 years in a job related to their field of study.

Que 4: Are there scholarships available for MS students in the USA?

Ans 4: Yes, many universities in the U.S. offer scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships to international MS students, often based on academic performance or research potential. Besides university funding, there are also external options like the Fulbright Scholarship and awards from various private organizations that support international students.

Que 5: Which exam is required for MS Courses in USA for Indian students?

Ans 5: International students are usually expected to submit test scores like the GRE (300 or above), IELTS (7.0), or TOEFL (79–104), depending on the program. Exams like the LSAT, MCAT, or GMAT may also be required for specific fields such as law, medicine, or business. If you're from a non-English-speaking country, you'll most likely need to take either the IELTS or TOEFL to show your English language skills. The exact tests you'll need to take often depend on the course you're applying to and the university’s requirements.