Answers to the questions prospective students ask most. If yours is not here, write to Professor Aaron Dingler at adingler@nd.edu.
Eligibility and background
Who is TTC designed for?
People aspiring to a Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering who do not hold a CSE undergraduate degree. Students typically come from engineering, statistics, physics, economics, and other quantitative fields, and the program is built so that prior discipline stays useful.
Do I need programming experience?
Yes. TTC requires mathematical maturity and prior programming experience. It is an intensive, graduate-level bridge, not a bootcamp and not a first course in programming.
Is TTC equivalent to a CSE bachelor’s degree?
No. TTC is not a substitute for an undergraduate CSE degree. It fills the essential background the MSCSE assumes, in one semester.
Admission and deadlines
When is the application deadline?
December 15 for the following fall semester. TTC is offered in the fall only, so there is no spring entry.
How do I apply?
Through the Notre Dame Graduate School application at gradconnect.nd.edu/apply. Contact Professor Dingler first if you are unsure whether TTC or direct MSCSE admission is the right route for your background.
Coursework and GPA
What will I take?
Twelve credits in one fall semester: three core courses plus an integrative practicum.
- Software Design
- Data Structures & Algorithms
- Computer Systems
- Integrative Practicum, applying computing to your prior discipline
What GPA do I need to continue?
A 3.0. Achieve it and you receive a Confirmation of Achievement, which allows you to continue directly into the MSCSE program.
Can TTC be taken part time or online?
No. The semester is in person, on campus, and full time, with a cohort that moves through the courses together.
Cost and funding
What does the program cost?
Students pay tuition at the Graduate School’s published rate. All qualified admitted MS students are considered for a Teaching Assistant position, which pays a stipend; the availability of TA positions is subject to funding. No other forms of financial aid, including tuition remission, are provided for this degree.
Continuing to the MSCSE
Do the transition courses count toward the MSCSE?
The three transition courses (Software Design, Data Structures & Algorithms, Computer Systems & Organization) do not count toward the 30 credits required for the MSCSE — they fill in the background the MSCSE assumes. The Integrative Computing Studio course does count toward the credit requirement of the MSCSE.
Do I have to reapply after the transition semester?
No. You are admitted as a degree-seeking MSCSE student from the start. Earning a 3.0 GPA across the twelve transition credits gives you a Confirmation of Achievement and you continue directly into MSCSE coursework.