UIUC MCS Online - GT OMSCS
I'm interested in pursuing UIUC MCS Online. I've already been accepted to Georgia Tech OMSCS, specializing in computer systems. I will definitely pay for GT, but I have a possibility to be compensated by my employer for this program.
I have a couple of questions about the program. First, the breadth requirements seem fine; it says you should take one course from each of four areas.
Second, the electives are fine, as I can take courses in my core specialization (distributed systems-related courses, for example).
However, I don't quite understand the Advanced Courses section, which is actually why I haven't applied to this program until now. It has classes that I don't care. 3/8 courses are useless & effortful from my point. Also Cloud Computing Specialization on Coursera has all distributed systems courses that I want to take for free. (I have a subscription)
Looking at the bolded courses on this page (https://siebelschool.illinois.edu/academics/graduate/professional-mcs/degree-reqs), it seems like there are no course options under this category, as most of the listed courses are 4xx-level.
Am I required to take CS 598, CS 519, and CS 597 regardless?
I have a lot of options and exciting classes in GT, but the lack of courses surprised me a lot in UIUC MCS, did I do my research correct, or do you have more options available?
Many thanks.