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Software Engineering students Sarah Santiago '23 and Elisa Normand '23

Computer Networks & Distributed Systems
Graduate Certificate

Not accepting new students

The Computer Networks and Distributed Systems graduate certificate program is not accepting new students at this time.

The Computer Networks and Distributed Systems certificate program is offered by Department of Computer and Information Science. The program includes courses in advanced computer systems, operating systems, and computer networks.

You will gain:

  • knowledge of tools, techniques, and theory associated with computer networks and their performance evaluation
  • solid understanding of distributed computing systems, including distributed operating systems
  • understanding of fundamental issues associated with computer networks engineering including multimedia networking

The certificate program also serves as a path to master's degree programs in computer science at UMassD. 

The 5 courses required for the certificate are compatible with MS degree requirements for Computer Science, enabling you to transition to a degree program without loss of credits.

Prospective students can take up to 2 courses for the certificate before completing their official acceptance to the certificate program, with permission of the instructor.

Admissions requirements

To apply please create an account in our Applicant Portal. You will need to submit:

  • Application form
  • $60 application fee (non-refundable)
  • Statement of Purpose (minimum 300 words)
  • Resume
  • Transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended (regardless of whether a credential is earned or not)
  • English Proficiency test scores:TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or PTE Academic (if applicable)
  • Letter(s) of Recommendation (see program requirements for more information)
  • GRE/GMAT (not required for most programs, see program requirements for more information)

Unofficial transcripts and test scores are accepted for application review but official documents are required for enrollment, please have documents (ie. test scores) sent prior to the expiration. 

Program-specific requirements

Candidates must submit the required application materials, university requirements and program-specific requirements, for consideration.

Applicants are required to hold an appropriate undergraduate degree such as a BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or BS in other closely related disciplines.

Application dates