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Are students with masters degree allowed to enter a masters program in the same area at a good university?
Is second masters a good option for a better research experience and improving your CV before applying to a PhD in top programs? I am specifically interested in US universities and computer science.
Getting a second masters degree in the same field may be allowed, but it's extremely rare and I don't think it's a good use of time. I don't think it will help you get admitted to a PhD program. It would just look like an anomaly to the admissions committee. I think it would make more sense to apply directly to PhD programs.
You are certainly allowed to apply, but your chances of getting accepted for a second master's in the same field is approximately zero--with one exception.
If you already have the master's degree you're seeking, most graduate schools will assume that you are really applying for a doctoral program, if the degrees are awarded separately. If you make if clear you are applying for a second master's degree, they'll probably just throw out your application.
The exception to this are programs where you can only be admitted as a doctoral candidate, but can earn a master's along the way. Then the normal procedures will likely still apply. Otherwise, you're out of luck.
I'm doing a 2nd Master's right now in Philosophy when my first was Philosophy of Religion (same classes basically). Both schools are American. There are some schools that are often recommended for people trying to get a 2nd MA in Philosophy. You most certainly CAN do it, at least in the humanities, although there are some cons to going about things this way.
Besides to very good advices posted in other answers to this question; I want to mention a few words.
Can a masters student apply for a second masters in the same field at another university?
I think, you are asking about applying and then studying for a second same masters degree. Because a student may be free to apply for a degree, but the admissions office will reject his profile as he is currently student else where.
Answer to your question depends on the educational system of the country and universities policies too.
In some countries, studying simultaneously in two universities and majors is prohibited and graduate students are only allowed to study in their own university. Also, I have seen many universities asking students whether they are currently students or not, because they seek full time students not part time ones.
However, I have seen that some students with outstanding grades and educational background can apply a minor very close to their field in their own university but it was for bachelors level only.
Also, you may find a university which accepts students seeking for double major; but the university in which you are currently studying may not agree to you to study a second major when you are their students.
As a general advice, double check the regulations of both universities and the countries in which you want to study simultaneously.
Yes, it is possible. I have had a master's degree in CS from my home country and then applied for a second master's degree (in an interdisciplinary program but my research was still focused on CS) in order to be able to eventually immigrate and settle in the US. Your best bet is to first secure a professor who is willing to be your supervisor as it will make the whole process easier.
As with your second question, I think it is a better use of time to find a research assistant (staff) position rather than applying for a second master's. the pay will be higher, there will be fewer speed limits (courses, qualifying seminars, mandatory workshops, etc.), and you can focus on your research with less stress about the outcome. I saw a lot of professors at top US universities with two master's degrees though (usually immigrants with their first master's from their home country) and I don't think it is THAT unusual to do so.
