Frequently Asked Questions

The MSCV program distinguishes itself by offering a quality education in the sciences and technologies of robotics through extensive hands-on laboratory and project work related to computer vision. MSCV likely requires a higher level of peer engagement than other graduate programs, as students complete a 2-semester project in teams. Through a combination of classroom learning, hands-on projects, and an internship, students will graduate and enter the workforce at higher technical levels since they are armed with a comprehensive education.

The MSR program consists of formal coursework and a heavy emphasis on research, culminating with an individual thesis based on a student’s research topic. MSCV students engage in formal coursework and group projects. Students in the MSCV program complete a 2-semester project in teams of approximately 2 students. This project is often sponsored by an industry partner.

The MSCV Admissions Committee analyzes each application holistically; however, they do hope to see hands-on computer vision-related experience. MSCV is a focused program, so it is important to have students who are totally confident that CV is the career path they desire. Successful candidates will have some undergraduate project experience beyond class work – such as internships, research projects, and/or industry experience. This is a competitive admissions process, so it is challenging for students with only classwork experience or with a very general computer science background to rise to the top. Additionally, the committee seeks strong communication skills and proficiency in the English language. Most graduates enter the workforce as an engineer on a computer vision team; proper communication is paramount to the success of a collaborative group. The committee seeks evidence of working on an English-speaking team (particularly as part of an internship) and creating well-written documents (papers, journals, blogs, etc) in English. Successful international applicants consistently score high marks on the TOEFL.

MSCV is designed to be completed full-time in 16 months. The Robotics Institute does not offer distance-learning, thereby requiring students to be on the Pittsburgh campus for all 3 semesters of formal coursework. While there are no specific prerequisite courses, successful candidates will have met the application requirements and have a strong foundation in the necessary CV-related skills.

Absolutely! MSCV welcomes applications from any and all interested and qualified candidates. We routinely consider and accept applicants from other countries. International students who are admitted and accept the offer are responsible for applying and receiving visas in a timely manner, and the Office of International Education (OIE) is always available to answer questions.

Admission to the MSCV program does not in any way signify admission to other RI graduate programs. Each of RI’s graduate programs (MSR, MRSD, MSCV, PhD) are separate and have their own admission criteria, selection processes, and admission decisions. The only way into any RI graduate program is through the full admissions process.

MSCV does not offer financial aid or scholarship funding. Accepted students are expected to be fully self-supported, covering tuition, fees, and any additional costs for room and board. Domestic students may be eligible to apply for financial aid through the university. More information can be found here, and it is also suggested to browse the Fellowships & Scholarships website.

Candidates who have earned an undergraduate degree (BS or equivalent) in either engineering, computer science, or applied math are eligible to apply. A previous MS degree does not disqualify a candidate from being considered.

The MSCV program is not a research-based program. Publication details are certainly welcome during the application process, but this is not a requirement for incoming students. Every application will be reviewed regardless of publication status.

Due to the variety of course content, university teaching levels, and the specificity of MSCV courses, the program will not accept any transfer credits.

MSCV is a professional preparation program that features a specific line-up of courses and hands-on projects. The program does not focus on research, so there will not be an opportunity to work on a Masters Thesis.

Although not guaranteed, it is quite common for MSCV students to serve as a Teaching Assistant in their second and/or third semesters. It is less common for MSCV students to be Research Assistants due to the busy nature of the required Capstone project. Both TAs & RAs are paid, part-time positions that nicely complement students’ studies. Hiring decisions are made by the course instructors & lab supervisors; the resulting income is helpful for groceries, books, etc, but is certainly not enough to cover tuition. Many summer internships offer a very competitive wage too.

MSCV graduates are perfectly poised to accept job offers with companies to work on computer vision and machine learning projects. Additional details are available via the Career and Professional Development Center’s Post-Graduation Salaries & Destination Information.

Note that the MSCV program is a professional master’s degree, intended to provide technical training to better prepare students for careers in industry. The MSCV program should not be viewed as a preparatory degree program for earning a PhD, but rather as a stand-alone degree program for those primarily interested in a professional career track. Approximately 4% of alumni are currently enrolled in a PhD program.