Behind the Scenes of the New Online Master of Applied Science in Computer Science (MAS-CS Online) Degree
On April 22, 2026, Dr. Boon Thau Loo joined us for a webinar with the Admissions Team discussing the new online Master of Applied Science in Computer Science (MAS-CS Online) degree.
During the webinar, Dean Loo discussed how the online computer science master’s program expands opportunities for students seeking rigorous computer science training while maintaining the flexibility and collaborative learning environment that define Penn Engineering Online programs.
He also introduced the program’s new concentration options in emerging areas of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Engineering Entrepreneurship, and Software Systems.
Dr. Boon Thau Loo serves as Senior Associate Dean for Graduate Education and Global Initiatives, Director at the Distributed Systems Laboratory, and as the RCA Professor within the Department of Computer and Information Science with a secondary appointment within the Electrical and Systems Engineering. He also teaches the “Computer Systems Programming” and “Networked Systems” courses for our online graduate students.
During the webinar, participants learned about the MAS-CS Online curriculum structure, including the six foundational core computer science courses and customizable elective pathways.
He also highlighted the flexibility of the program’s asynchronous online learning experience and the collaborative Penn Engineering Online community, where students engage with faculty and peers through office hours, discussion forums, Slack channels, and both virtual and in-person events while balancing graduate study alongside professional and personal responsibilities.
The webinar also explored career outcomes for alumni of the online master’s degree program. Dean Loo discussed how graduates use the degree to transition into employment in software engineering, AI engineering, cybersecurity, product management, entrepreneurship, and doctoral study.
Dean Loo addressed the rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence in computer science education and industry.
“This has been the most exciting time for computer science since the creation of the internet…” he said. “If you come here, you come in at the right place at the right time.”
The Penn Engineering Online Admissions Team also provided attendees with guidance on preparing a strong MAS-CS Online application. They reviewed admissions requirements, recommendation letters, optional GRE scores, tuition, financial aid resources, and further opportunities for involvement with the student community, such as becoming a teaching assistant.
Missed the webinar? We invite you to explore the MAS-CS Online degree program and connect with the Penn Engineering Online Admissions Team to learn more about how the program prepares students to build foundational computer science expertise and pursue careers across today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape.