Question 1

Is the program accredited?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Ball State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Learn more.

Question 2

What appears on the degree certificate?

Accepted Answer

You’ll earn a reputable Ball State degree whether you’re taking classes in a physical or online classroom. Ball State’s online degrees carry the same weight as those earned on campus. Your diploma will not indicate whether you earned your degree online or on its Indiana campus.

Question 3

Do I need a computer science background? Are there any skills I should have before I begin the pathway course?

Accepted Answer

This program is built for career switchers and learners of all educational backgrounds and career experiences. Whether you come from a computer science or programming background or not, the performance-based admissions simplify the road toward your career goals. If you can successfully complete three courses, you can earn admission to the Ball State master’s in computer science.

Question 4

Can I try a course before I enroll in the graded pathway course?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Preview 4 weeks of our open content courses to see if Ball State is the right fit for you. Cybersecurity and Secure Software DesignData VisualizationIntroduction to Programming

Question 5

How many courses can students take at a time?

Accepted Answer

Many students take one or two courses at a time to balance work, classes, and other responsibilities. You may take more than two classes at a time, but it isn’t recommended for students who work full-time. Request information to learn more.

Question 6

Will there be a graduation ceremony?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in fact it is encouraged that online students come to Ball State University’s campus to participate in commencement ceremonies. Commencement is held at the end of the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. Ball State also webcasts its Spring commencement ceremonies if you cannot travel.

Question 7

Do online students have access to on-campus facilities?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will have access to most of the same student resources and services that on-campus students have—including Ball State’s library services, online tutoring, career services, and more. As an online student, you also have a dedicated Ball State Student Success Specialist.

Question 8

What role does Ball State’s Student Success Specialist play in my education?

Accepted Answer

Ball State applies a concierge approach when it comes to your experience with your Student Success Specialist. You’ll find that your assigned Specialist is with you every step of the way–from registration to graduation–anticipating your learning needs, providing guidance on courses, suggesting resources and opportunities to enhance your overall academic experience, and rooting for your success.

Your Student Success Specialist helps you navigate the “business of being a student,” whether you’re fresh out of college, took some time off, or are completely new to online education.

Question 9

What if I’m debating between Ball State’s MS in Data Science and MS in Computer Science?

Accepted Answer

If you’re unsure of the path you want to take, you can get a feel for both degrees while completing the pathway courses. Ball State’s MS in Computer Science and MS in Data Science offer two overlapping pathway courses – CS 617 and DSCI 605 – that count toward both degrees. After taking these courses, you can decide which program you’re most interested in and switch into it the next semester.

Question 10

What are the withdrawal policies?

Accepted Answer

Individual Course Withdrawal:
If you wish to withdraw from a course(s), but not all of the courses you registered for, you may be eligible for a reduction of your original tuition charges based on the below refund schedule:Week 1: 100%Week 2: 75%Week 3: 50%Week 4: 25%Week 5 or more: 0%Total Course Withdrawal:
If you wish to withdraw from ALL of your courses here is the refund schedule:Week 1: 100%Week 2: 80%Week 3: 60%Week 4: 50%Week 5: 40%Week 6: 30%Week 7: 20%Week 8: 10%Week 9 or more: 0%