Computer Engineering and High Performance Computing

ADA University and the George Washington University offer special new Master of Science degree programs in Computer Engineering and High-Performance Computing. The curriculum aims to deliver a well-integrated, robust program covering high-performance computing, parallel computer architectures, big data, cloud computing, and machine learning. The program covers the stack from concepts and architecture to parallel programming and systems. The program synergistically leverages the strengths of GW’s internationally renowned faculty, their extensive research experience with industry and government, and GW’s state-of-the-art high-performance computing facilities. Combined with ADA’s excellent expertise in computing and information technologies, the program is uniquely positioned for students interested in research and development. 

Qualified students who are aiming for senior engineering and/or leadership roles in high-performance computing, cloud computing, big data, and related fields are encouraged to apply. During their program, students will take courses at ADA University campus, Baku (afternoon classes), and complete a portion of the coursework at GW in Washington, DC. In addition to the course work, each student will undertake a research project supervised jointly by faculty from ADA and GW, which is designed to prepare them for advanced careers in academia and research, providing a strong foundation for doctoral studies. The focus on research projects helps to cultivate deep technical skills and innovative problem-solving abilities, aligning with the latest industry and academic demands.

The program is financially supported by the State Program for Azerbaijani nationals. Admitted students will receive comprehensive funding from the State Program, covering their tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs in Washington DC. Students are expected to pay only the annual non-refundable student fees of 1500 AZN.

State Program does not cover the expenses for international students.

Click to see the program curriculum by semester.

Relevant Academic background Applicants with bachelor’s degrees in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, and Electronics Engineering are encouraged to apply. Candidates holding degrees in similar fields with strong mathematics and computer science coursework (as described below) are also eligible.

• Mathematics: Two courses beyond calculus level for example: Linear Algebra, Ordinary Differential Equations, and Discrete Structures
• Engineering: Completion of specific courses in the area such as fundamentals of electric circuits, electronics, computer architecture, microprocessor systems, embedded systems and integrated circuit design.
• Computer Science:  Strong background in the form of prior coursework for example Programming Principles I and II, Computer Networks, Data Structures and Algorithms, artificial intelligence related course and course projects.

Consideration will be given for equivalent industry experience.

GPA requirement: Minimum of 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) based on the last 60 credit hours of undergraduate work. This is roughly equivalent to 80 on a 100 scale.

Interest in research: Strong motivation to develop innovative solutions through rigorous study and research endeavors is desirable in candidates. This interest can be showcased through research projects, and publications during their application and interview process.

Stage 1 ADA University online application form

Stage 2: Exams

Stage 3: George Washington University application form

Stage 1 ADA University online application form: www.ada.edu.az/apply

As part of the  ADA University online application form, the following documents are required to be submitted:

• Bachelor’s Diploma and Transcripts: Submit notarized and English-translated copies of your bachelor's diploma. If you are currently in your final year, provide a document stating your expected graduation date.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume: Include details of your educational background, employment experience, and any relevant skills or certifications.
• Recent photo: A recent, professional photo should be uploaded with your application.
• National Identification Card
• Statement of Purpose: should not exceed 400 words and must detail your academic and professional goals, particularly how they align with the program you are applying to
• Exam Results 

Stage 2: Exams

• English Language Proficiency exam * :
  • TOEFL Internet-based test (iBT) score of at least 100 or
  • IELTS overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0 or
  • PTE Academic score of at least 68 or
  • Duolingo Online Exam score of at least 130

* Waivers for English language requirements are given only in below cases:

• The native language is English
• Studied at a degree level in English in an English-speaking country

•  DIM/SEC Master Admission Exam: minimum 45 score is required.

•  Internal ADA University Exam: all applicants must also pass an internal exam on the basics of Computer Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Sciences, conducted at ADA University campus and covering the following topics:

Computer Science: Programming (Principles, Algorithms, Data Structures, Paradigms), Database Management Systems, Computer Architecture, Computer Networks

Mathematics: Calculus, Linear Algebra, Probability and Statistics

Prospective students may submit their application before taking this test, but the scores must be sent before the application deadline.

Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview at ADA University.

Stage 3: GW application form

Candidates selected after the interviews will be required to apply to GW University and complete its online application form.

Application deadlines

First application deadline: April 1

Second application deadline: June 1

ADA University offers a unique opportunity for fourth-year students from the School of Information Technologies and Engineering (SITE) to participate in a special Combined Track Program in partnership with the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) at George Washington University. Details of the program are as follows:

1. Students take 5 courses in Year 4 of their UG degree at ADA University
2. Then students take classes for 1 year in GW and graduate from the program
3. Students have an option to stay in the US for 1-year academic internship after graduation on J-1 (visitor) visa

To apply for the Combined Track SITE students must meet the following criteria:

• Academic Performance: a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of a 4.0 scale on the last 60 hours of bachelor’s degree coursework.
• English Language Requirements: To be considered for admission to the Program, ADA SITE-sponsored applicants would be required to submit valid English language test scores with the following minimum scores: 
  • TOEFL Internet-based test (iBT) score of at least 100 or higher. 
  • IELTS overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0.

GW SEAS will waive the online application fee for all ADA SITE students.

All SITE applicants who apply for the Program will not be required to submit GRE scores with their application.

Students who complete the Combined Track and meet all the requirements of ADA University and George Washington University will earn three diplomas:

• Bachelor's diploma from ADA University
• Master's diploma from George Washington University
• Master's diploma from ADA University.

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