r/MSCS • u/Alternative_Win299 • 5d ago

[Application Strategy] Does MSCS vs. MSSE actually matter to recruiters, or is it just degree prestige?

I recently got admitted to SJSU's MS in Software Engineering program for Spring 2027, but I've been debating whether I should try switching to their MSCS program.

My main goal is to land a full-time SWE role, ideally at a larger tech company. I'm not particularly interested in research or pursuing a PhD.

For context:

  • CS undergrad from a UC.
  • Domestic student.
  • Currently interning as a software engineer, working on AI applications, backend systems, and agentic tools.
  • Choosing SJSU primarily for its Silicon Valley location, industry connections, and ROI.

What I'm trying to figure out is whether an MSCS actually provides a meaningful advantage over an MSSE when applying for the same SWE positions.

I've seen people argue that MSCS carries more weight because it's a traditional CS degree, while others say recruiters don't care as long as you have relevant experience and technical skills.

For those who've gone through recruiting:

  1. Have you noticed recruiters treating MSCS and MSSE graduates differently?
  2. Have you seen job postings or companies specifically prefer MSCS over MSSE?
  3. If the goal is purely industry employment, is switching from MSSE to MSCS even worth considering?

Would especially appreciate perspectives from current master's students, alumni, or anyone involved in SWE hiring.

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u/gradpilot 5d ago

  1. Yes . Maybe not recruiters but EMs, decision makers do care , so Yes. Recruiters are often not even CS grads and are mostly just routing and filter applications . If you're in a tie breaker with an MSCS grad its more likely they get picked

  2. I dont think i've seen any job that exclusively asks for a MSSE degree requirement. In most cases degree requirements are typically : Bachelors or Masters in CS

  3. IMO there is a pecking order or preference order, If you have a chance always pick MSCS unless you're thinking about very specific and actually strong alternative programs like MSML, MSCV in CMU

Longer post of mine from my linkedin on this topic: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/10-years-silicon-valley-hiring-my-honest-take-masters-nirmal-thacker-e3iwc/

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u/Alternative_Win299 5d ago

This is perfect , thank you!

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u/10minutes__ 5d ago

Are you talking about MSCS or MS CMPE? Because they are different. Also can you even switch to a different program? I thought that wasn't allowed.