asdfman123

I'm trying to get into a computer science master's program but I'm wondering what my chances are of getting into a decent program, and what strategies I should take. Here's some background information; I hope you don't mind my rant. I graduated from a top school (Stanford) with a degree in geophysics and a low GPA: 2.7. My in-major GPA was actually a little lower. (I was pretty depressed and burnt out in college; maybe I should put that on my statement of purpose.) I'm taking some post-baccalaureate computer science classes at a local, middle-of-the-road school, the University of Houston. Basically, I'm taking all the courses I would have taken in a computer science program. I got a 3.5 last semester, and I'm enrolled for 4 more classes this semester. I'm gonna get a 4.0 this time... I also have a broad range of research experience in college, but it's all over the place. Particle physics, then materials science, then an IT-ish project for geophysics, with some light programming. I perhaps look a little unfocused. I can't think of any great recommendations from undergrad. I was a pretty bad student. I think there are some UH professors I can ask, though. I also think I can get a very high GRE score, because standardized tests are the one thing in life I'm undeniably good at... Anyway, what are my odds for applying in the winter? Does anyone have any general advice for me? Also, while I'm at it, what are some CS GRE study materials?

I'm interested in a professional degree for now, and then maybe I'll consider getting a PhD. People have said I should consider a BS, but what if I just take all the required CS classes without getting a BS? That is, assuming I can't get a degree without taking other unnecessary classes...

Nope, I'm back at home in Texas. I was thinking about taking classes at the University of Houston. I should probably actually do the classes, though, because I need to get top grades and forge relationships with professors. But it's great to hear that other people have gone down that route. Do you think it's possible to get into a top CS MS program if I do everything right?

I went to Stanford and majored in chemistry, but dealt with a major depressive episode and burnout and graduated with a 2.7 GPA. I really enjoy CS, though, so I want to try to get a master's degree in it. I only took 3 programming courses in college, so I'm thinking about taking some post-bac CS courses at a local university to be able to apply and prove that I can get good grades. Do you think I should try to take them at a well-regarded local private school or a less expensive school nearby? Also, what sorts of things should I do in order to improve my admission chances? And most importantly, do you think this is a plausible, reasonable arrangement?