Sometimes, the spark to pursue a master’s degree comes from the most unexpected places. For Luke Marzen from the US, it came from playing video games.
“Growing up, my brothers and I spent hours playing video games on our home computer,” he says. “I became interested in how game mechanics worked and how I could create my own experiences in sandbox games like Minecraft, which has a system of digital logic components known as redstone.”
It wasn’t until his first semester at Iowa State University that he learned how to code, which sealed the deal for him. That experience only made him want to learn more about computer science, leading him to pursue a master’s degree at the Department of Computer Science.
Here, Marzen found the opportunity to develop software and artificial intelligence (AI) tools, work with robots, and use data to tackle societal problems. The curriculum and research projects covered topics like AI, machine learning, data science, bioinformatics and computational biology, human-computer interaction, robotics and autonomous systems, software engineering and programming languages, as well as systems and networking.
“I saw the master’s programme as a way to deepen my expertise in my field and position myself for greater career opportunities and professional growth,” Marzen says. “Pursuing my master’s at Iowa State aligned perfectly with my academic interests, research interests, and long-term career goals.”
Marzen was an MS in Computer Science student, where he chose the research track to take advantage of the fact that Iowa State is a Carnegie R1 “very high research activity” university. Equipment and laboratories are cutting-edge, as are the breakthroughs emerging from faculty members.
The same goes for the MS in Artificial Intelligence, one of the first AI graduate programs in the nation. In this pioneering programme, you will explore how computers interpret data, make predictions, and reshape industries under the guidance of leading AI experts.
You can complete the MS in Computer Science and MS in Artificial Intelligence with or without a thesis. Source: Iowa State University
“I chose the research track, influenced by my drive to contribute originally in AI and computational biology,” Indian student Kunal Suresh says. “ISU’s resources, like labs for AI and bioinformatics, made this ideal – enabling my thesis-like work on zebrafish genomic safe harbours (GSHs).”
If you want to gain experience working in industry, you can opt for the non-thesis track instead. During your final semester, you will complete an industry-based project with one of the department’s partners, either Collins Aerospace, Kingland, or Union Pacific’s Building America. This is designed to provide you with real-world experience in project management and software and algorithm design, while also honing your soft skills in time management, communication, and teamwork.
For students without a computing background, you too can earn an MS in Computer Science or in Artificial Intelligence through the MS Bridge Programme. This programme provides an accessible entry point, where you first complete three courses that equip you with the foundational skills needed to excel in more advanced topics. The courses include Computational Methods I, Algorithmic Foundations I, and Algorithmic Foundations II.
Want to expand your impact beyond traditional computer science? The STEM-designated Master of Financial Technology, offered jointly with the university’s Ivy College of Business, combines finance and computer science, focusing on financial analysis, computational methods, and business analytics.
The Department of Computer Science is home to a vibrant mix of student organisations and clubs. Source: Iowa State University
Live in one of America’s best college towns
Your time with Iowa State is not solely about coursework, research, and capstone projects. You can also join student organisations and computer science clubs, a great way to connect with like-minded peers and participate in exciting activities.
“There’s a ton of great student groups and tech communities at ISU that have been a big help, like AI clubs where we geek out over the latest trends,” Suresh says. “These opportunities mix skill-building with fun, making it easier to network and grow. Definitely worth checking out if you’re into tech or just want a balanced college life.”
The setting is Ames, Iowa. Deeply student-centric, this is a city with intentional infrastructure, community support, and affordability. The best part is how welcoming it is. Ames’s warm Midwestern culture creates a safe and inclusive atmosphere where everyone genuinely feels at home.
“With easy access to labs for late-night projects and discussion work, Ames’ concentrated environment has boosted my academic motivation,” Suresh says. “During exam week, having access to the library around the clock and having secure access to the commute until midnight is a huge plus.”
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