MS in IT vs MS in CS: Which Degree Offers Better ROI for Indian Students in 2025?
In 2025, Indian students aspiring to study abroad are increasingly considering the return on investment (ROI) of pursuing an MS in IT in USA or MS in CS in USA. Between $70,000 and $120,000 (₹61.69 lakh to ₹1.06 crore) a year for school, and another $20,000 to $30,000 a year for living costs. This will cost a lot of money. These degrees are not the same. The school you pick can have a big effect on your job growth and your ability to pay your bills.
Understanding the Cost and Duration
Depending on the school and location, an MS in IT in the USA usually costs between $60,000 and $90,000 over two years. In comparison, an MS in CS in the USA can cost anywhere from $70,000 to $120,000 for the same amount of time. Both programs usually last two years, but some colleges offer accelerated options that only take one year.
Career Opportunities and Salary Potential
To get a good job in the US, people with an MS in CS can often work in AI, machine learning, data science, and software development. People want to work as an AI Engineer, Data Scientist, or Cloud Architect, which start at around $100,000 to $120,000 a year.
On the other hand, people in the USA with an MS in IT are ready to work in information systems management, network administration, and IT advising. Even though these jobs are necessary, the starting pay is generally less, between $70,000 and $90,000 per year.
Job Market Trends and Visa Considerations
The job market for international students in the USA has become more competitive due to recent changes in immigration policies. This affects both MS in IT in USA and MS in CS in USA graduates, though the tech industry may still offer more opportunities for CS graduates.
Return on Investment Analysis
How much the degree costs altogether, how much you could make at first, and the state of the job market will help you figure out the ROI. For the US, an MS in CS costs $100,000 and earns an average of $110,000 upon graduation. This means that the return on investment (ROI) is good. The return on investment is not as good for an MS in IT in the US, where the whole thing costs $80,000 and the starting salary is also $80,000.
Conclusion
Indian students who want to get an MS in computer science in the US are more likely to make more money in 2025 if they look at possible job market and pay trends. Students have a lot of good choices between the two academic classes. For each person, though, it is important to think about their own personal interests and job goals when making such a choice.
Considering Studying Abroad?
It’s important to get professional advice if you want to Study Masters in USA, especially in the US. At Imperial Overseas, we offer full counselling services to help you through all the steps of studying abroad, from choosing a university to applying for a visa.
Our goal at Imperial Overseas is to make sure that your time studying abroad goes smoothly and well. Get in touch with us right away to start making plans for your future.
FAQs
Graduates with an MS in CS in USA can anticipate starting salaries between $100,000 and $120,000, while those with an MS in IT in USA can anticipate earning between $70,000 and $90,000.
There are a lot of universities that do give scholarships and jobs to international students. It is suggested that you check the websites of each university to find unique opportunities.
As long as they don’t break the rules, international students with an F-1 visa can work up to 20 hours a week during the term and full-time during breaks.
Indian students who want to study in the US need to get an F-1 visa. This is what you need to show: proof that you have been accepted, proof that you can pay for school, and proof that you will go back to India after you finish.
Being MS-holder can help you get a job, but the job market is very tough right now. Your chances of getting hired go up if you network, do internships, and get experience that is related to the job.
