Showcasing Quantitative Skills for the MCIT Online Application
Ready to pivot your career into computer science? Penn’s online Master of Computer and Information Technology (MCIT Online) program is the only Ivy League master’s degree tailored for individuals with limited or no prior computer science background. This program offers a unique opportunity for applicants with any undergraduate degree, including those who are hoping to pivot into a tech career from another field or industry and those who are hoping to enhance their current career with new tech skills and knowledge.
While previous computer science experience or an undergraduate degree in CS are not required to apply to this program, possessing strong quantitative skills is essential – and your application should include proof of your quantitative ability.
Below you can review frequently asked questions and tips for MCIT Online applicants, including:
▶︎⏵ Why is quantitative aptitude crucial for MCIT students?
▶︎⏵ What kind of quantitative background is required for admission?
▶︎⏵ What if I don’t have sufficient course grades or test scores?
▶︎⏵ What if I am returning to school after a long break?
▶︎⏵ What prior experience do applicants usually have?
Why is quantitative aptitude crucial for MCIT students?
Quantitative skills and knowledge including linear algebra, number theory, probability and statistics empower computer scientists to leverage computational thinking, abstract language, and algorithmic problem-solving. Those working in the field of computer science need these skills to accurately model real-world solutions.
The MCIT Online degree program consists of graduate-level coursework and will move rapidly through these topics. It is expected that students entering the program already have basic knowledge of mathematical logic.
What kind of quantitative background is required for admission?
The MCIT Online program requires a minimum demonstrated ability in algebra at the college level. While calculus is common among applicants, the admissions committee looks at all quantitative coursework in your academic history. This includes engineering, physics, chemistry, or other science courses that demonstrate mathematical reasoning ability.
There are several ways to demonstrate your quantitative competence in your application:
Grades from previous college courses
One of the best ways to prove quantitative ability is with a grade on a college transcript for a quantitative subject. Recent math coursework is viewed more favorably than courses taken many years ago. A strong grade from a recent course can help offset past poor performance and demonstrate a growth in ability.
Scores from an entrance exam
Another excellent way to demonstrate quantitative ability is to submit a GRE or GMAT score. While these tests are not required for entrance to the program, performing strongly on one of these exams can strengthen your application.
What if I don’t have sufficient course grades or test scores?
For MCIT Online applicants who need to bolster their proof of quantitative ability, taking one or a few for-credit college-level math courses from an accredited institution can confirm and help prove your quantitative ability.
We suggest taking a one or a few math courses or submitting a GRE or GMAT score if any of the following applies to you:
- You didn’t take quantitative courses (e.g., math or physics) during your undergraduate degree program.
- Your undergraduate grades are lower than desired and don’t reflect your current abilities.
- You received your undergraduate degree 10+ years ago.
What if I am returning to school after a long break?
If it has been some time since you’ve taken college courses, you could refresh your study skills, reacquaint yourself with the subject matter, and build time management habits by taking an on-demand, non-credit MOOC (massive online open course). Penn Engineering Online offers several flexible and affordable On-Demand Learning Courses that are open to everyone. This can be a good way to test out the material to make sure computer science is the field you want to pursue and get familiar with Penn Engineering’s online learning environment.
What prior experience do applicants usually have?
Applicants from all professional backgrounds and undergraduate majors are welcome to apply. No prior experience with computer science is required, but many successful MCIT Online students come to the program with some informal or self-taught exposure to programming Often these self-taught learners are seeking the formal learning structure and comprehensive computer science foundation that the MCIT Online degree can provide. Students in the program include professionals from a wide range of backgrounds and industries including teachers, musicians, stay at home parents looking to launch the next chapter of their career … and more!
What are the next steps?
To learn more about Penn Engineering’s MCIT Online program, we encourage you to explore connect with our Admissions Team:
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