Earn a Post-Grad Certificate in Computer Science
Advance your career and expertise in computer science through Loyola Marymount University’s one year or less Computer Science Certificate programs. Designed for post-grads looking to level up their skills in a short timeframe, the Computer Science Certificate programs can help you deepen your knowledge in specialized areas like machine learning, generative AI, agentic AI, agile software development, secure software development, and cybersecurity.
If you’re a working software engineer, cloud architect, full stack engineer, or product manager in Los Angeles, LMU’s Computer Science Certificate programs are a great way to build on your technical skills, show specialization, and propel your career even further.
Many certificate courses are held on LMU’s campus in the evenings to accommodate full-time work schedules. Classes for the certificate program are the same classes taught by Computer Science faculty and taken by Computer Science graduate students.
Key Facts
Certificate Length: 9 months – 1 year
Format: In-person
Class Times: Weeknights
Units: 9-12
Courses: 3
Application Deadline: July 1
Program Length
Certificate programs require three courses and can be completed in three consecutive semesters if you take one class each semester.
Certificate Program Offerings
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Certificate
The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Certificate program is designed to provide software engineers and developers with specialized technical training in AI and AI methods, as well as an understanding of the ethical, societal, and cultural implications of AI. Topics include machine learning, natural language processing, large language models, generative AI, agentic AI, multi-agent systems, and deep learning. Courses are taught by professors working in the field of AI with firsthand knowledge of this rapidly changing area. This certificate program builds and strengthens AI expertise, creating a foundation for advancement into leadership roles such as AI engineers, agent builders, agent orchestrators, or LLM specialists. Students choose three courses from the selection below:
- CMSI 5350 Machine Learning
- CMSI 5370 Natural Language Processing and Large Language Models
- CMSI 5381 Agentic Artificial Intelligence in Game Development
- CMSI 5390 Generative Artificial Intelligence Algorithms and Models
- CMSI 5391 Generative Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure
- CMSI 630 Artificial Intelligence
- CMSI 6352 Deep Learning Applications
- HSEG 565 Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technology in Healthcare
- MATH 540 Deep Learning
Course descriptions for all Computer Science courses can be found in the LMU Bulletin.
Cybersecurity Certificate
The Cybersecurity Certificate program teaches engineers, computer scientists, and managers how to defend networks against today's evolving threats. Topics include design, development, implementation, and operations of cyber resilient systems, as well as systems management and governance, secure software development, and managing the operational environment in the presence of threats. Students choose three courses from the selection below:
- CMSI 560 Intro to Cybersecurity
- CMSI 662 Secure Software Development
- CMSI 563 Cyberdefense
- CMSI 664 Advanced Cybersecurity Management
Course descriptions for all Computer Science courses can be found in the LMU Bulletin.
Software Architecture Certificate
The Software Architecture Certificate program is for project engineers and managers of integrated hardware and software systems. Topics include software architectural patterns and key systems implementation decisions, such as cloud computing, agile software development, and more. Students choose three courses from the selection below:
- CMSI 540 Software Architecture
- CMSI 544 Engineering for Autonomy
- CMSI 543 Agile Software/Systems Project Management
Course descriptions for all Computer Science courses can be found in the LMU Bulletin.
Admission Requirements for Certificates
All applicants to the Computer Science Certificate programs at LMU are required to have:
- B.S. degree in computer science or closely related field, or consent of the Admissions Committee
Certificate Application
The Computer Science Certificate programs at LMU can be started in the fall, spring, or summer semesters. Note: Applications submitted after the listed deadlines may still be considered and reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Application Deadlines
| Program | Fall | Spring | Summer I | Summer II |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science Certificates | July 1 | Nov. 1 | March 1 | April 1 |
How to Apply
To apply for the post-grad Computer Science Certificate programs, please submit:
- A completed LMU Graduate application and $50 application fee
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
- Personal statement/Letter of Intent explaining how the program fits into your career development
- Optional: Letters of recommendation and Graduate Record Exam (GRE)
Tuition for Certificate Programs
The LMU Computer Science Certificate programs are 9 units total (three courses). Tuition is calculated by course unit. To calculate tuition costs, view the LMU Controller website for the latest academic year’s tuition cost per unit.
Apply Certificate Credits to Graduate Program
If you decide to pursue the master’s degree later, you can apply your certificate program credits toward the LMU Computer Science master’s program once you complete the certificate. You will need to reapply to the master’s program specifically and then your certificate credits will transfer.
Get More Info
The Seaver Graduate Programs team is here to help you navigate Computer Science Certificates. Connect one-on-one with our admissions team and attend a virtual information session. Contact us today.