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Top 10 Best PhD in Computer Science Programs

Are you looking to further your studies in computer science? Perfect! I’ve researched and put together these ten computer science PhD programs, so keep reading to find your next course!

As you know, PhD in computer science holders are sought-after specialists, with current demand far outstripping supply. According to the Bureau for Labor Statistics , jobs for computer and information research scientists are estimated to grow by an impressive 22% between 2020 and 2030. You might score similar positions with a PhD in mathematics , too. But a PhD in computer science can open doors to some of the most lucrative jobs in the industry.

Let’s explore some of the best computer science PhD courses in the US!

Table of Contents

Best Computer Science PhD Programs and Universities

Stanford university.

PhD in Computer Science

Stanford University is one of the most famous research institutions in the world, and its Computer Science programs have been ranked second in the USA. This PhD program involves a research rotation scheme where students participate in different research groups during the first year. This exposes them to different subjects and lets them know the faculty and fellow students.

Courses : Analysis of algorithms, programming languages, and computer network & security.
Credits : 135 course units
Duration : 5-6 years
Delivery : On-campus
Tuition : Refer tuition page (full funding available)
Financial aid : Research assistantships, teaching assistantships, fellowships, and grants
Acceptance rate: 5.2%
Location : Stanford, California

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

PhD in Computer Science and Engineering

MIT is known as the best technical institution in the world, and its computer science programs were ranked first in the country by the US & News report. Students can work with all schools and departments throughout their studies.

Courses : Software & computation for simulation, process data analytics & machine learning, and numerical computing & interactive software.
Credits : 60
Tuition : Refer tuition page
Financial aid: Scholarships, federal work-study, fellowships, assistantships, grants, and veteran benefits
Acceptance rate: 7.3%
Location : Cambridge, Massachusetts

Carnegie Mellon University, School of Computer Sciences

CMU is a globally acclaimed private research university, home to conducting cutting-edge technology research across its seven prestigious schools. This is one of the few PhD programs in computer science with an optional dual degree arrangement enabling you to study programs with one of seven Portuguese universities.

Courses : Algorithms & complexity, artificial intelligence, and software systems.
Credits : 96 university units
Tuition : $48,250 per year
Financial aid: Full funding, fellowships, and scholarships
Acceptance rate : 17.3%
Location : Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Harvard University, Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

Harvard University is a world-renowned research institution that aims to achieve the perfect mix of scholarship and innovation. Across the university, every PhD student is given a field advisor right from the beginning of the program. Then, the student identifies a research area and a potential research advisor in their first two semesters. Upon qualifying, the research advisor nominates a research committee to assist the student throughout their graduate career.

Courses : Algorithms & their limitations, data structures & algorithms, and cryptography.
Credits : 16 half-courses
Duration : 2 years minimum
Financial aid : Full funding, fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships
Acceptance rate: 5%

Duke University, The Graduate School

Duke University is an internationally acclaimed private research university known for its inclusivity. Its Center for Exemplary Mentoring aims to increase the number of PhD graduates from underrepresented and minority communities. Its PhD of Computer Science program is flexible and allows students to choose between a coursework-only option of 30 credits or a thesis.

Courses : Programming & problem solving, computational microeconomics, and software design & implementation.
Credits : 8 courses
Duration : 5 years
Tuition : $4,325 per semester
Financial aid : Grants, fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships
Acceptance rate : 7.7%
Location : Durham, North Carolina

The University of California Berkeley, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences (EECS)

The University of California Berkeley is a prestigious university committed to student diversity and has a dedicated Office for Graduate Diversity to support students from all backgrounds. This PhD program offers research opportunities in biosystems and computational biology, cyber-physical systems and design automation (CPSDA), and computer architecture and engineering.

Courses : Combinatorial algorithms & data structures, design of programming languages, and implementation of database systems.
Credits : 24 units minimum
Duration : 5.5 – 6 years
Tuition : $6,132 per semester
Financial aid : Fellowships, scholarships, grants, research stipends, loans, and work-study
Acceptance rate : 17%
Location : Berkeley, California

California Institute of Technology, Computing & Mathematical Sciences Department

The California Institute of Technology, also known as Caltech, is one of the most renowned technology institutions in the world despite its comparatively small size. This PhD program allows students to develop an in-depth understanding of and conduct research in areas related to mathematical and algorithmic foundations of computer science.

Courses : Quantum cryptography, information theory, and network control systems.
Credits : 135 units
Duration : 6 years
Tuition : $63,063 per year
Financial aid : Fellowships, assistantships, loans, stipends, scholarships, and work-study
Acceptance rate : 6.7%
Location : Pasadena, California

Cornell University, Bowers College of Computing and Information Science

Cornell University is home to several famous technology schools, such as Cornell Tech, which conducts cutting-edge research to find solutions to the challenges of our modern, digital world. In this PhD program, students choose a minor from one of the 90 available fields outside of computer science to widen their knowledge base.

Courses : Parallel computing, programming environments, and natural language processing.
Duration : 12 semesters
Tuition : $24,800 per year
Financial aid: Assistantships, fellowships, loans, and stipends
Acceptance rate : 10.7%
Location : Ithaca, New York

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, The Grainger College of Engineering

The Grainger College of Engineering focuses on research to improve quality of life through innovation, entrepreneurship, and societal engagement. In this flexible PhD program, students are assigned three committee members during the first semester. The student can then consult with these mentors to plan their studies to meet their career goals.

Courses : Programming language semantics, machine learning for signals, and learning-based robotics.
Credits : 96, or 64 if you already have an MS
Duration : 5-7 years
Financial aid : Grants, fellowships, waivers, loans, and employment
Acceptance rate : 63.3%
Location : Urbana, Illinois

Princeton University, The Graduate School

Princeton University is one of the top universities in the country in computer science doctorate programs. This PhD program involves studying six courses, including one each from the three main areas of Artificial Intelligence, Systems, and Theory, which form the program’s core.

Courses : Programming languages, advanced computer systems, and information theory & applications.
Credits : 6 courses
Tuition : $62,860 per year
Financial aid : Teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and fellowships
Acceptance rate : 5.6%
Location : Princeton, New Jersey

What Do I Need to Get a PhD in Computer Science?

For most programs, you’ll need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or a related field; however, exact eligibility requirements vary depending on the school. To earn your PhD, you’ll typically need to complete coursework, qualifying exams, and a dissertation.

What to Consider When Choosing a Computer Science PhD Program

Several US schools and universities offer PhD in computer science programs — choosing the right program for you can feel overwhelming. So, take your time and research the curriculum and specialties for different programs to make sure they match your areas of interest.

If you’re unsure about the areas you want to specialize in, I advise you to read research papers across different fields and discuss career opportunities with people in the industry. It’s also a good idea to look up the faculty from the programs you’re interested in and review their recent papers.

Here are some key factors to keep in mind when choosing a computer science PhD:

Curriculum and specialties offered
The program’s reputation
Faculty, their specialties, and reputation
Cost of tuition and other fees
Delivery mode: on-campus, online, or hybrid
Funding options

Related Reading: Top 10 Best Online PhDs in Computer Science

Why Get a Doctor of Computer Science Degree?

A doctorate in computer science will equip you to become a leading researcher in today’s digital technologies. You’ll also be eligible for senior academic positions with a PhD in the field.

Furthermore, a PhD in computer science allows you to work in various respectable roles. Here are some of the top jobs and average yearly salaries for computer science PhD holders:

Data Scientist – $99,710
Chief Data Scientist – $211,702
Software Architect – $136,541
Software Development Manager – $133,534
Senior Researcher – $107,657

Approximately 2,000 students earn a computer science PhD from US universities each year. The industry demand is much greater than the supply. Furthermore, many PhD candidates are international students who return home after graduation. Therefore, graduates with a PhD in computer science are in high demand in the US.

PhD in Computer Science: Key Facts

How much does a phd in computer science cost.

Tuition varies depending on the program but generally falls between $15,000 and $60,000 per year. Besides the tuition fees, you will also need to factor in additional costs like academic fees, books, other educational resources, and living expenses.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Computer Science?

A PhD in computer science usually takes 3-7 years to complete.

What Skills Do You Gain from Doing a PhD in Computer Science?

A PhD in computer science allows students to develop leadership, problem-solving, and research skills related to complex topics like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics.

Key Takeaways

A PhD in computer science is one of the most in-demand qualifications in today’s hyper-digital world. It can equip you with specialized skills and knowledge to address modern tech problems with innovative solutions.

If you found this article helpful, take a look at our other guides, including the best Master’s in Computer Science programs , the top online PhD programs , and the highest paying PhDs .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a phd in computer science like.

A PhD in computer science typically involves research, coursework, thesis preparation, teaching, and seminars related to computer science subjects. Individual programs may have other requirements.

Can You Get a PhD in Computer Science?

Yes, many universities offer computer science PhD programs . You’ll usually need a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in computer science or a related field to apply.

Is a PhD in Computer Science Worth It?

While a PhD in computer science requires considerable financial investment, it is a valuable qualification in today’s tech-forward world. Plenty of job opportunities and high remuneration levels await a computer science PhD graduate, with the average annual salary of $133,000 per year.

What Does a PhD in Computer Science Do?

A qualified PhD computer science graduate may conduct research in complex computer systems, design and develop programs and applications, or study human-computer interaction to find innovative solutions for society. They may also work in academics, either in teaching, research, or both.

What Can I Do with a PhD in Computer Science?

With a PhD in Computer Science on your resume, you’ll be hired for roles like data scientist, software architect, researcher, or academic professor and build a prestigious, high-paid career.

Which Subject is Best for a PhD in Computer Science?

A wide range of subjects will qualify you to apply for a doctoral degree in computer science. Popular topics include data structures and algorithms, computer systems and organization, and discrete computer science mathematics. The best subject for you depends on your interests and career ambitions.

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Academics / Graduate PhD in Computer Science

The doctor of philosophy in computer science program at Northwestern University primarily prepares students to become expert independent researchers. PhD students conduct original transformational research in extant and emerging computer science topics. Students work alongside top researchers to advance the core CS fields from Theory to AI and Systems and Networking . In addition, PhD students have the opportunity to collaborate with CS+X faculty who are jointly appointed between CS and disciplines including business, law, economics, journalism, and medicine.

Joining a Track

Doctor of philosophy in computer science students follow the course requirements, qualifying exam structure, and thesis process specific to one of five tracks :

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Computer Engineering

Within each track, students explore many areas of interest, including programming languages , security and privacy and human-computer interaction .

Learn more about computer science research areas

Curriculum and Requirements

The focus of the CS PhD program is learning how to do research by doing research, and students are expected to spend at least 50% of their time on research. Students complete ten graduate curriculum requirements (including COMP_SCI 496: Introduction to Graduate Studies in Computer Science ), and additional course selection is tailored based on individual experience, research track, and interests. Students must also successfully complete a qualifying exam to be admitted to candidacy.

CS PhD Manual Apply now

Request More Information

Download a PDF program guide about your program of interest and get in contact with our graduate admissions staff.

Request info about the PhD degree

Opportunities for PhD Students

Cognitive science certificate.

Computer science PhD students may earn a specialization in cognitive science by taking six cognitive science courses. In addition to broadening a student’s area of study and improving their resume, students attend cognitive science events and lectures, they can receive conference travel support, and they are exposed to cross-disciplinary exchanges.

The Crown Family Graduate Internship Program

PhD candidates may elect to participate in the Crown Family Graduate Internship Program. This opportunity allows the doctoral candidate to gain practical experience in industry or in national research laboratories in areas closely related to their research.

Management for Scientists and Engineers Certificate Program

The certificate program — jointly offered by The Graduate School and Kellogg School of Management — provides post-candidacy doctoral students with a basic understanding of strategy, finance, risk and uncertainty, marketing, accounting and leadership. Students are introduced to business concepts and specific frameworks for effective management relevant to both for-profit and nonprofit sectors.

Career Paths

Recent graduates of the computer science PhD program are pursuing careers in industry & research labs, academia, and startups.

Georgia Institute of Technology
Illinois Institute of Technology
Northeastern
University of Pittsburgh
University of Rochester
University of Washington
Naval Research Laboratory
Northwestern University

Industry & Research Labs

Adobe Research
Narrative Science
Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Contact Info

Admissions Questions

Help for Current PhD Students

Director of Graduate Studies for PhD Program

What Students Are Saying

"One great benefit of Northwestern is the collaborative effort of the CS department that enabled me to work on projects involving multiple faculty, each with their own diverse set of expertise.

Northwestern maintains a great balance: you will work on leading research at a top-tier institution, and you won't get lost in the mix."

— Brian Suchy, PhD Candidate, Computer Systems

What Alumni Are Saying

"In the early stage of my PhD program, I took several courses from the Department of Economics and the Kellogg School of Management and, later, I started collaborating with researchers in those areas. The experience taught me how to have an open mind to embrace and work with people with different backgrounds."

— Yiding Feng (PhD '21), postdoctoral researcher, Microsoft Research Lab – New England

Read an alumni profile of Yiding Feng

"My work at IBM Research involves bringing together symbolic and deep learning techniques to solve problems in interpretable, effective ways, which means I must draw upon the research I did at Northwestern quite frequently."

— Maxwell Crouse (PhD '21), AI Research Scientist, IBM Research

Read an alumni profile of Maxwell Crouse

The theory group here is very warm and close-knit. Starting a PhD is daunting, and it is comforting to have a community I can lean on.

— Vaidehi Srinivas, PhD Candidate, CS Theory

person holding a writing implement using a notepad, sitting in front of a computer

Doctoral Degree in Computer Science

Carnegie Mellon's Ph.D. in Computer Science is, above all, a research degree. When the faculty award a Ph.D., they certify that the student has a broad foundation and awareness of core concepts in computer science, has advanced the field by performing significant original research and has reported that work in a scholarly fashion.

When you begin our Ph.D. program, you’ll take the Introductory Course for Doctoral Students — an intense two week program that orients you to the department, introduces you to research and education topics our faculty are interested in, helps you find a faculty advisor and familiarizes you with Carnegie Mellon’s resources. Next, you’ll gain a broad understanding of fundamental research issues in major areas of computer science through coursework and original research. Finally, you’ll write and orally defend a thesis that guarantees you understand the area well enough to advance the state of knowledge in the field.

During the first two years of the program, you’ll gain the foundation of knowledge that will allow you to become an expert researcher in computer science, primarily by

Mastering a body of graduate material, achieved by passing 96 university units worth of graduate courses (equivalent to eight full-time courses).

Learning how to organize and begin to carry out original research, achieved by participating in directed research.

You will also serve as a teaching assistant, hone your writing and speaking skills and maintain your programming prowess. You’ll also receive periodic evaluation of your progress, and must make satisfactory progress to continue in the program.

Time Commitment:

As a Ph.D. student in computer science at CMU, you'll spend roughly five years acquiring a body of technical knowledge that includes a familiarity with the breadth of the field, as well as a deep understanding of your research area. From your second month in the program, you'll work closely with your faculty advisor, who is charged with guiding your education and monitoring your progress through the program. You'll take courses, teach and perform directed research — all to ensure that you leave Carnegie Mellon as an expert in your field. For a complete breakdown of our program requirements, read our Ph.D. Handbook .

Financial Information:

The Computer Science Department offers all Ph.D. students full financial support while they are in good academic standing in their respective programs. To learn more about Ph.D. funding, visit the SCS Doctoral Programs webpage.

Graduate Tuition: https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/tuition/graduate/scs.html

Student Fees: https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/tuition/fees/index.html

Carnegie Mellon Graduate Student Financial Aid: https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/financial-aid/graduate/index.html

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Computer Science is an area of study within the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Prospective students apply through Harvard Griffin GSAS; in the online application, select “Engineering and Applied Sciences” as your program choice and select "PhD Computer Science" in the Area of Study menu.

In the Computer Science program, you will learn both the fundamentals of computation and computation’s interaction with the world. Your work will involve a wide range of areas including theoretical computer science, artificial intelligence and machine learning, economics and computer science, privacy and security, data-management systems, intelligent interfaces, operating systems, computer graphics, computational linguistics, robotics, networks, architectures, program languages, and visualization.

You will be involved with researchers in several interdisciplinary initiatives across the University, such as the Center for Research on Computation and Society, the Institute for Applied Computational Science, the Data Science Initiative, and the Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society.

Examples of projects current and past students have worked on include leveraging machine learning to solve real-world sequential decision-making problems and using artificial intelligence to help conservation and anti-poaching efforts around the world.

Graduates of the program have gone on to a range of careers in industry in companies like Riot Games as game director and Lead Scientist at Raytheon. Others have positions in academia at University of Pittsburgh, Columbia, and Stony Brook.

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Computer Science Ph.D. Program

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The Cornell Ph.D. program in computer science is consistently ranked among the top six departments in the country, with world-class research covering all of computer science. Our computer science program is distinguished by the excellence of the faculty, by a long tradition of pioneering research, and by the breadth of its Ph.D. program. Faculty and Ph.D. students are located both in Ithaca and in New York City at the Cornell Tech campus . The Field of Computer Science also includes faculty members from other departments (Electrical Engineering, Information Science, Applied Math, Mathematics, Operations Research and Industrial Engineering, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Computational Biology, and Architecture) who can supervise a student's Ph.D. thesis research in computer science.

Over the past years we've increased our strength in areas such as artificial intelligence, computer graphics, systems, security, machine learning, and digital libraries, while maintaining our depth in traditional areas such as theory, programming languages and scientific computing. You can find out more about our research here .

The department provides an exceptionally open and friendly atmosphere that encourages the sharing of ideas across all areas.

Cornell is located in the heart of the Finger Lakes region. This beautiful area provides many opportunities for recreational activities such as sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, both downhill and cross-country skiing, ice skating, rock climbing, hiking, camping, and brewery/cider/wine-tasting. In fact, Cornell offers courses in all of these activities.

The Cornell Tech campus in New York City is located on Roosevelt Island. Cornell Tech is a graduate school conceived and implemented expressly to integrate the study of technology with business, law, and design. There are now over a half-dozen masters programs on offer as well as doctoral studies.

FAQ with more information about the two campuses .

Ph.D. Program Structure

Each year, about 30-40 new Ph.D. students join the department. During the first two semesters, students become familiar with the faculty members and their areas of research by taking graduate courses, attending research seminars, and participating in research projects. By the end of the first year, each student selects a specific area and forms a committee based on the student's research interests. This “Special Committee” of three or more faculty members will guide the student through to a Ph.D. dissertation. Ph.D. students that decide to work with a faculty member based at Cornell Tech typically move to New York City after a year in Ithaca.

The Field believes that certain areas are so fundamental to Computer Science that all students should be competent in them. Ph.D. candidates are expected to demonstrate competency in four areas of computer science at the high undergraduate level: theory, programming languages, systems, and artificial intelligence.

Each student then focuses on a specific topic of research and begins a preliminary investigation of that topic. The initial results are presented during a comprehensive oral evaluation, which is administered by the members of the student's Special Committee. The objective of this examination, usually taken in the third year, is to evaluate a student's ability to undertake original research at the Ph.D. level.

The final oral examination, a public defense of the dissertation, is taken before the Special Committee.

To encourage students to explore areas other than Computer Science, the department requires that students complete an outside minor. Cornell offers almost 90 fields from which a minor can be chosen. Some students elect to minor in related fields such as Applied Mathematics, Information Science, Electrical Engineering, or Operations Research. Others use this opportunity to pursue interests as diverse as Music, Theater, Psychology, Women's Studies, Philosophy, and Finance.

The computer science Ph.D. program complies with the requirements of the Cornell Graduate School , which include requirements on residency, minimum grades, examinations, and dissertation.

The Department also administers a very small 2-year Master of Science program (with thesis). Students in this program serve as teaching assistants and receive full tuition plus a stipend for their services.

Email forwarding for @cs.stanford.edu is changing. Updates and details here . Looking for your W-2 form? Read Here . CS Commencement Ceremony June 16, 2024. Learn More .

Academics | PhD Program

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The PhD degree is intended primarily for students who desire a career in research, advanced development, or teaching. A broad Computer Science, Engineering, Science background, intensive study, and research experience in a specialized area are the necessary requisites.

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is conferred on candidates who have demonstrated to the satisfaction of our Department in the following areas:

high attainment in a particular field of knowledge, and
the ability to do independent investigation and present the results of such research.

They must satisfy the general requirements for advanced degrees, and the program requirements specified by our Department.

Program Requirements

On average, the program is completed in five to six years, depending on the student’s research and progress.

Progress Guidelines

Students should consider the progress guidelines to ensure that they are making reasonable progress.

Monitoring Progress

Annual reviews only apply to PhD students in their second year or later; yearly meetings are held for all PhD students.

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Best Doctorates in Computer Science: Top PhD Programs, Career Paths, and Salaries

Getting a PhD in the field of computer science is the best way to influence the future of technological innovation and research. If you are interested in getting a computer science doctoral degree, then our list of the best PhDs in Computer Science will help you find the program that caters most to your goals.

A PhD in Computer Science can branch out into a wide variety of science and tech fields. Be it information assurance, computational science theory, or cyber operations, you can specialize your computer science PhD to suit your interests. In our guide, we’ve also gone into detail about the average PhD in Computer Science salary and the best computer science jobs PhD students can get.

Find your bootcamp match

What is a phd in computer science.

A PhD in Computer Science is a doctoral degree where graduate students perform research and submit original dissertations covering advanced computing systems topics. Computer science is a broad field that covers artificial intelligence, operating systems, software engineering, and data science.

Your doctoral dissertation will include a research proposal, coursework in advanced topics related to computer science, and a thesis presentation. The wide span of this field allows you to choose a PhD program that can cover topics in any high-performance computing systems area.

How to Get Into a Computer Science PhD Program: Admission Requirements

The admissions requirements to get into a computer science PhD program include submitting your official transcripts from your undergraduate or graduate programs and resume. Your previous university coursework should showcase a strong background in software development, popular programming languages , and scientific computing.

Universities also usually require the submission of your GRE score. A combined score of 1,100 is typically where you want to be when applying to PhD programs. You’ll also usually be required to submit three or more letters of recommendation and a personal essay stating your thesis or research proposal. Keep in mind that each university’s admissions requirements will vary.

PhD in Computer Science Admission Requirements

3.0 or higher cumulative GPA
Three letters of recommendation
Official transcript from your undergraduate degree or your graduate degree
Prerequisite courses covering computer science academic programs
Personal statement highlighting proposal of thesis or research topic

Computer Science PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Computer Science?

It is very hard to get into a PhD program in computer science. This is because prospective students need to meet a very competitive GPA, have an excellent academic background, and fulfill other advanced program requirements. Your chances of getting accepted into a computer science doctorate degree program will typically range between 10 to 20 percent.

In fact, less than 10 percent of computer science graduate applicants are accepted at the University of California. Similarly, Duke University reports that only around 15.7 percent of applicants were selected for its 2021 to 2022 computer science PhD program. Your acceptance relies on submitting a compelling thesis proposal statement that displays your passion and high academic competency.

How to Get Into the Best Universities

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Best PhDs in Computer Science: In Brief

Best universities for computer science phds: where to get a phd in computer science.

The best universities for computer science PhDs are Arizona State University, Boston University, Harvard University, Duke University, and Carnegie Mellon University. Each of these universities will help you advance your research and eventually get you a job in artificial intelligence , software development, or computing systems. We’ve also broken down the application process and other details for each program.

According to the US News & World Report, Arizona State University ranks number one on the list of the most innovative schools and number 36 in the best undergraduate engineering programs. It was founded in 1885 and currently offers over 450 graduate programs and employs more than 340 PhD fellows.

PhD in Computer Science

Arizona State University offers research opportunities in the fields of artificial intelligence, cyber security, big data, or statistical modeling under the umbrella of this computer science program. In this 84-credit program, you’ll tackle your dissertation, prospectus, and oral and written exams. You’ll also take courses on computational processes, information assurance, and network architecture.

Your PhD dissertation includes 12 credit hours of experience culmination that can be planned alongside your research and elective credits. This degree is best suited for computer scientists wanting to build a career in machine learning or an academic career.

PhD in Computer Science Overview

Program Length: 4 to 6 years
Acceptance Rate: N/A
Tuition and Fees: $6,007/semester, nine credits or more (in state); $1,663/hour, under 12 credits or $16,328 per semester, 12 credits or more (out of state)
PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching assistantships, research assistantships
Three letters of recommendations from former professors or employers
One to two-page statement of purpose that covers previous research experiences and reasoning behind your interest in one to two doctoral programs
Optional submission of GRE scores. Preferred scores are 146 verbal, 159 quantitative, and 4.0 analytical writing
Official transcripts
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or computer engineering. Applicants with a master’s degree in a relevant field are preferred
Minimum 3.5 cumulative GPA

Founded in 1839, Boston University is a top private research university with a reputable engineering and technology program. It offers over 350 graduate programs and PhDs in topics such as neurobiology, biostatistics, computer engineering, mathematical finance, and systems engineering.

PhD in Computer Science

If you are interested in advancing in research and academia, then this PhD program is worth looking into. Its curriculum trains you to build a successful professional background in the intelligent control systems, cloud infrastructures, and cryptography fields. Candidates need to clear its qualification, dissertation, and milestone requirements to complete this degree.

Program Length: 5 to 6 years
Acceptance Rate: 10%
Tuition and Fees: $61,924/year
PhD Funding Opportunities: Computer Science Fellowship, Teaching Excellence Award, Research Excellence Award, Teaching Fellow Expectations
GRE scores normally mandatory, but are optional for fall 2022
A personal statement stating your interest in the program
Resume

Carnegie Mellon University is a globally recognized university with more than 14,500 students and over 109,900 alumni. The school was founded in the year 1900 and offers over 80 majors and minors. According to the US News & World Report, Carnegie Mellon University ranks number one on the best undergraduate computer science program in the country.

This on-campus PhD program focuses on computing research, software informatics, and communication technologies. Completing this doctoral degree program will open you up to a wide range of career prospects across the data science, computing technology, and information technology research fields.

This degree includes 24 units of advanced computing research, 72 units of graduate courses, and the dissertation process of an original research thesis. This PhD is apt for those looking to establish their career in research and academia. During this program, you’ll also serve as a teaching assistant in the computer science department twice as per the degree requirement.

Acceptance Rate: 5% to 10%
Tuition and Fees: $75,272/year
PhD Funding Opportunities: Internal funding, external funding, dependency allowance, fellowships
GRE scores optional but encouraged
Most recent transcript of the university attended
One to two-page statement of purpose stating your interest in the program, research interests, PhD objective, and relevant experience
Three letters of recommendation from previous faculty or employers

Duke University was established in 1924 and counts among the top universities in the world. It has an undergraduate population of 6,789 and a graduate population of 9,991 students and is most recognized for its computer science, biology, public policy, and economics departments. It offers over 80 doctoral and master’s degrees covering STEM, social sciences, and humanities.

This computer science PhD is definitely worth it for doctorate students looking to embark on an advanced computer science research path. In it, students tackle a research initiation project, preliminary exam, dissertation process, and core qualification credits. Doctoral candidates are also required to partake in the department’s teaching assistantship program.

Its curriculum includes core courses in computation theory, artificial intelligence, algorithms, numerical analysis, and computer architecture. Graduates of the program open themselves up to numerous career opportunities across a wide range of computing systems academic and research fields.

Program Length: 3 to 4 years
Acceptance Rate: 15.7%
Tuition and Fees: $70,185/year for the first three years and $18,165/year each subsequent year
PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching assistantships, research assistantships, fellowships
Official transcripts from all attended universities
Statement of purpose
GRE scores are optional for 2022 but recommended
No minimum GPA requirements but high GPA scores are preferred

Harvard University is a top Ivy League institution that has amassed global recognition and top rankings in many of its departments. Founded in 1636, the university is home to many excellent programs across the fields of law, medicine, economics, and computer science. It has more than 400,000 alumni and a total enrollment of 35,276 students.

According to the US News & World Report, Harvard University ranked number one among the best global universities in 2022 . Its graduate schools offer doctorate programs in the applied sciences, biology, literature, environmental sciences, business, and healthcare fields.

Attending a computer science PhD program at Harvard University brings high credibility and accolades to your professional candidacy. This program is offered by the university’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and provides focus opportunities across the engineering science, applied physics, computer science, and applied mathematics areas.

Similar to most mainstream PhDs, this program requires the completion of 10 semester-long graduate courses, a dissertation topic, oral and written qualifying exams, a teaching assistantship, and a defense process. After graduating, you’ll easily qualify for some of the most prestigious research and career opportunities available.

Program Length: 3 or more years
Acceptance Rate: 6%
Tuition and Fees: $50,928 for the first two years and $13,240 reduced tuition for the third and fourth year
PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching fellowships, research assistantships, GSAS fellowships, external funding
Supplemental form for PhD
Transcripts from all post-secondary education
Statement of purpose stating your interest in the program

Oregon State University is a public research university founded in 1868 with over 210,000 alumni. The school is home to more than 28,607 undergraduate and 5,833 graduate students and offers over 300 academic programs as well as a robust research department. Its doctoral programs can be found in the business, agricultural science, education, engineering, or medicine departments.

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This PhD is offered by the university’s electrical engineering and computer science department and is perfect for doctoral candidates wanting to work in IT research in the governmental or educational sectors. The program offers research opportunities in topics such as data science, cyber security, artificial intelligence, computer graphics, and human-computer interaction.

The program’s curriculum includes graduate-level courses in theoretical computer science and requires the completion of your research thesis. You’ll also be required to maintain an overall cumulative GPA of 3.0 and pass all preliminary and oral exams to receive your PhD.

Program Length: 4 years
Tuition and Fees: $557/credit (in state); $1,105/credit (out of state)
PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate teaching assistantship, research assistantship, Outstanding Scholars Program
Three letters of recommendation from previous professors or employers familiar with your technical skills
Transcripts and academic history of all attended universities
Minimum 3.0 GPA in the last two years of your undergraduate or graduate work
Statement of objective listing your interest in the program, career goals, research interests, and relevant experience

Syracuse University is a private institution that was established in 1870 and is most popular for its research and professional training academic programs. It has more than 40 research centers focusing on the STEM, social sciences, and humanities fields. The university has over 400 majors, minors, and advanced degrees its students can choose from.

It had a total enrollment of 14,479 undergraduate students and 6,193 graduate students in the fall of 2020. Prospective students can pick a PhD focus from many of its applied topics, including data science, statistics, human development, and bioengineering.

PhD in Computer and Information Science and Engineering

A PhD focused in computer and information science and engineering from Syracuse University can help you advance your career in the information technology, software engineering, or information assurance fields. This program is best suited for computing technology research buffs looking to land senior-level positions in the field.

The program’s curriculum is an amalgamation of graduate coursework, your dissertation and research presentation, and exams. Your coursework will cover technical topics ranging from algorithms and artificial intelligence to operating systems and hardware systems.

PhD in Computer and Information Science and Engineering Overview

Program Length: 4 to 5 years
Acceptance Rate: 14.28%
Tuition and Fees: $32,110/year
PhD Funding Opportunities: Research assistantships, departmental teaching assistantships, university fellowships

PhD in Computer and Information Science and Engineering Admission Requirements

Minimum GRE scores: Verbal 153, Quantitative 155, and analytical writing 4.5
Bachelor of Science or Master of Science in computer engineering, electrical engineering, or computer and information science
Two or more letters of recommendation from previous faculty or employers
Official transcripts of all attended universities
500-word personal statement concerning your interest in the program

The University of Oklahoma is a public school best known for its business, journalism, and petroleum engineering programs. Founded in 1890, it currently has an undergraduate student population of 21,844 and offers over 170 academic programs and graduate degrees in a wide range of subject areas.

The school’s doctoral topics are numerous and can be found within its business, architecture, fine arts, education, engineering, journalism, or geographics science departments. The University of Oklahoma is also incredibly well known for its athletic programs, having won many national championships.

The university’s computer science PhD has courses in machine learning, data science, computer security, visual analytics, database management, and neural networking subjects. If you’re interested in a data science, network security, artificial intelligence, or cyber security career, then this PhD is for you.

The program allows you to propose a research topic covering anything in the field of advanced computing systems and theories. During your program, you’ll undergo an annual research progress review along with general examinations until your defense. The program also requires you to submit a minimum of two publications before you complete your degree.

Program Length: 6 years
Tuition and Fees: $591.90/credit (in state); $1,219.50/credit (out of state)
PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships, research assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, research grants
Prerequisite coursework covering computer science, data structures, and math subjects
Bachelor’s degree or master’s degree
Minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA
250-word statement of purpose concerning your interest and goals in the program
Three letters of recommendation, with two of them preferably from previous professors

The University of Arizona was founded in 1885 and is a public research institution with over 300 major programs. The school is home to 36,503 undergraduate and 10,429 graduate students and offers PhD programs in over 150 areas of study, including information science, statistics, mechanical engineering, biomedical science, medicine, communication, and economics.

If you want to become an applications architect or pursue a career in academia focusing on computing or business intelligence technologies, then this PhD is for you. It offers courses in computer networking, system architecture, database systems, machine learning theory, natural processing language, and computer vision.

The program’s curriculum requires the completion of 12 units of advanced computer science research and 18 units of dissertation presentation and defense. You’ll also need to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.33 to receive your PhD.

Program Length: 5.5 years
Acceptance Rate: 17.73%
Tuition and Fees: $989.12/unit (in state); $1,918.12/unit (out of state)
PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships, graduate associate fund, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, graduate college fellowship
Official transcripts from all attended universities
Minimum of two letters of recommendation by previous faculty or employers
A statement of purpose stating your interest in the school and the program faculty, your career goals, preferred research areas, and research background
Resume detailing previous research work, published papers, conference presentations, and computer science background
Bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field
A background in operating systems, programming languages, discrete mathematics, data structures, and theory of computation
Minimum 3.5 undergraduate GPA and 3.7 graduate GPA

The University of Maryland is a research-focused institution that was founded in 1856. It hosts more than 41,200 students and offers over 217 undergraduate and master’s programs. It also offers 84 doctoral programs and has an extensive research department. According to the US News & World Report, the school ranks number 20 among the top public schools in the country .

This PhD program offers research opportunities in subjects such as robotics, big data, scientific computing, machine learning, geographic information systems, and quantum computing. Doctoral students can participate in a collaborative research journey at any of the school’s research specialized institutions. The program curriculum includes graduate coursework, a research proposal, and a dissertation defense.

Tuition and Fees: $11,586/year (in state); $24,718/year (out of state) 2022-2023
PhD Funding Opportunities: Research assistantships, departmental teaching assistantships, National Science Foundation Graduate Fellowships, Fulbright Fellowships
Transcripts from all attended universities
Writing sample and optional publications or presentations
Statement of purpose concerning your interests in the field and program
Three letters of recommendation

Can You Get a PhD in Computer Science Online?

Yes, you can get a PhD in Computer Science online. An online doctoral degree will be more course-based instead of research-based due to the lack of laboratory facilities. Computer science is a broad field that offers doctoral opportunities across a wide range of tech topics. You can get an online PhD in information science, data science, data analytics, or information systems.

Know that online PhDs are rare across most fields, including computer science. Obtaining a non-research-focused doctoral degree won’t be as respected as a traditional computer science PhD. The online PhD programs listed below are best suited for candidates looking to advance into managerial, theoretical research, and academic positions in the technology sector.

Best Online PhD Programs in Computer Science

How long does it take to get a phd in computer science.

It takes an average of four years to get a PhD in Computer Science. However, the actual duration is entirely dependent on the candidate’s research proposal approval and defense success, and depending on your research pace, it can take up to five or six years to complete. The graduate course portion of your degree is the most straightforward and typically takes around 2.5 years to complete.

Your dissertation topic selection, research journey, publication submissions, and defense presentations will take the most amount of time, usually between three to five years. Some universities also require their PhD students to complete a minimum of two years of graduate teaching assistantship. An online PhD in Computer Science usually only takes three years to finish, as it mostly includes advanced coursework.

Is a PhD in Computer Science Hard?

Yes, a PhD in Computer Science is hard. Computer science is a complex field that incorporates an array of advanced technical topics. Your PhD will require you to submit an original research proposal on an advanced information technology subject such as data science, machine learning, quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and network security topics.

Along with advanced research and a dissertation, you’ll also need to complete advanced graduate courses with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Other requirements often include submitting one or more publications, working in graduate teaching positions, and successfully defending your thesis topic. The combination of all of these academic requirements makes getting a PhD in Computer Science a hard process.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Computer Science?

It costs $19,314 per year to get a PhD in Computer Science, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). However, your total PhD tuition can vary depending on a number of factors, including the university’s ranking, the program’s timeline, and the PhD funding opportunities you’ll have available.

The NCES further categorizes the graduate program tuition according to the institution type and reports that the average fee for public institutions was $12,171 from 2018 to 2019. It also states that private for-profit institutions charged an average of $27,776, and non-profit schools charged $14,208 those same years.

How to Pay for a PhD in Computer Science: PhD Funding Options

The PhD funding options that students can use to pay for a PhD in Computer Science include graduate research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and fellowship opportunities. Your funding options will vary from school to school and can include both external and internal funding.

Some of the popular ways to fund your PhDs include research grants, federal work-study programs, teaching or graduate assistantships, tuition waivers, and graduate research fellowships. You can also apply for scholarships or tuition reimbursement options at your current job. Your graduate advisor and computer science faculty can help you find more funding options.

Best Online Master’s Degrees

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What Is the Difference Between a Computer Science Master’s Degree and PhD?

The difference between a computer science master’s degree and a PhD is the level of each degree. A Master’s Degree in Computer Science is a typical precursor to a PhD and covers the technical field less extensively than a doctoral program. It will last around two to three years and can be fully course-based or thesis-based.

A PhD in Computer Science provides you with higher qualifications and more research and dissertation autonomy. It can last anywhere between four to six years and gives you original publication and research credibility. Both of these computer science degrees are considered graduate degrees, but a PhD provides you with a higher educational accolade.

Master’s vs PhD in Computer Science Job Outlook

The job outlook for a professional with a master’s vs PhD in Computer Science will generally coincide as most senior-level careers can be achieved with a master’s degree. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for computer and information research scientists is projected to grow by 22 percent between 2020 and 2030.

This job typically requires a master’s degree meaning PhD holders also qualify and can apply for it. The commonality of these job growth statistics also applies to other tech positions, including information security scientists and network architects. That being said, the specific growth rate of your job will also vary depending on your career choice.

For example, university computer science professor positions, which typically only computer science PhD holders are eligible for, have a projected growth rate of 12 percent between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS. With computer science professionals being high in demand, most PhD in Computer Science jobs have a positive projected growth rate.

Difference in Salary for Computer Science Master’s vs PhD

The difference in salary for computer science master’s vs PhD grads can vary depending on their position and place of employment. According to PayScale, the average salary for a computer science PhD holder is $131,000 per year , which is higher than the average salary of a master’s degree graduate.

According to PayScale, the average salary for a computer science master’s graduate is $105,000 per year . The salary disparity with these degrees stems from the differences in their level of seniority, industry experience, and educational accolades.

Related Computer Science Degrees

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Why You Should Get a PhD in Computer Science

You should get a PhD in Computer Science because it is an advanced and highly reputable degree that will help you land senior technical, academic, and research roles. A PhD is a gateway to a lucrative and innovative technology career, allowing you to follow your research passion across the fields of artificial intelligence, data science, or computing theory.

Reasons for Getting a PhD in Computer Science

Extensive and advanced research opportunities. A PhD in Computer Science covers many advanced computing science fields. You can learn specialized skills through your research opportunities and eventually work in advanced data science, artificial intelligence, neural networking, information technology, or computing theory.
Higher salary. PhD graduates qualify for career opportunities working in senior positions as scientists, professors, managers, or heads of departments. These senior positions come with high compensation and job security.
Rewarding education. A computer science PhD is perfect for those who are interested in contributing toward leading innovation and technology research. As a doctoral student, you can propose and conduct advanced research in the field while contributing to today’s technological growth.
Increased job candidacy. Having a computer science PhD on your resume and portfolio will enhance your candidacy when applying to tech positions across all industries. A PhD is a highly reputable degree that demonstrates your expertise in the field and ultimately makes you a highly sought-after candidate.

Getting a PhD in Computer Science: Computer Science PhD Coursework

A person wearing a gray cardigan, a light blue shirt, and glasses working on a black laptop in a room full of electronic and computer equipment.

The graduate requirements for getting a PhD in Computer Science and most common PhD coursework are different from program to program and are heavily dependent on your specialization, but often have some commonalities. Here are some examples of courses you may take during your PhD.

System Architecture

A systems architecture course in a computer science PhD covers advanced operating systems, communication technologies, network security, and computer architecture. You’ll also take classes covering topics like network systems and software engineering.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is a rapidly growing field that is integral to the field of computer science and data science. Your program will cover the latest artificial intelligence technologies and research areas such as deep learning, interactive systems, neural networking, and artificial intelligence infrastructure.

Information Assurance

Network security, information assurance, and cyber security are also part of an extensive education coverage of the computer science field. This course will cover vital knowledge concerning information security, system integrity, data privacy, and system authentication.

Data science courses in a computer science PhD program cover topics such as big data, database management, data analytics, data mining, and machine learning subjects. You will learn about data science processes and methods as well as the tools and technologies used in advanced data engineering.

Theory of Computation

A theory of computation course will teach you advanced algorithms, computation models, Turing machines, quantum computing, and automata theories. You’ll also have lessons that cover the Godel Incompleteness theorem and molecular computing.

Best Master’s Degrees

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How to Get a PhD in Computer Science: Doctoral Program Requirements

If you are wondering how to get a PhD in Computer Science and complete the doctoral program requirements, this section will provide you with the answers you’re looking for. The graduation and academic requirements will vary from one PhD program to another, but there are some common requirements across all computer science departments. Here are some of them.

A computer science PhD is an amalgamation of graduate-level courses and research. All PhDs will require you to complete their graduate course requirements which cover topics like data science, computing systems, artificial intelligence, and information assurance. The required number of courses will vary depending on the program but is typically between 10 and 15.

Maintaining a minimum required cumulative GPA in your courses is a requirement across all PhD programs. The GPA requirement can range anywhere from 3.0 to 3.5. This is one of the major ways your program department tracks your progress and whether or not you are struggling with the work.

Clearing the qualifying exams with a passing grade while maintaining the required GPA is another PhD graduation requirement. Your preliminary exam is a public presentation discussing your research topics with approval committees and other students. Written exams and oral exams come with each course and are a test of your computer science and tech abilities.

You are typically required to present your research proposal or research initiation project within the first two years of your PhD. You must get your research idea approved by the approval committee and begin the research process within those two years.

Once you embark on your computer science research process, you are required to present an annual progress report. This presentation is a review process where the approval committee will ask questions and provide feedback on your progression.

Your PhD milestones may also include publication requirements. For these, you’ll be required to submit one or two peer-reviewed journal or publication entries covering the computer science topics you are researching.

Universities also require PhD candidates to complete two years of graduate teaching assistantships or research assistantships. These assistantships are one of the best ways to secure funding for your PhD program.

Getting your dissertation approved and completing your research and thesis is one of the most important milestones of your PhD. Your assigned research committee, thesis advisor, and approval committee will need to approve your research and dissertation for your to be able to graduate.

Computer science PhDs will have a timeline breakdown that candidates are expected to meet. You will typically need to complete the graduate coursework within two to three years and complete your dissertation and thesis within six years. You can request a timeline extension with your advisor’s approval.

The thesis for your PhD in Computer Science will cover your chosen research subject area. It will include a thesis proposal submission, thesis presentation, and thesis approval process as well as an extensive written document covering your hypothesis, findings, and conclusions.

Potential Careers With a Computer Science Degree

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PhD in Computer Science Salary and Job Outlook

The salary and job outlook for a PhD in Computer Science will vary according to your job designation but are generally positive. The average salary for some of the highest-paid jobs will range between $86,712 and $179,351. Below are some of the most lucrative career paths a computer science PhD holder can embark on.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Computer Science?

You can work in a wide range of advanced technical positions with a PhD in Computer Science. This doctoral degree qualifies you for positions as a manager, scientist, college professor, and researcher. You could lead an information assurance department or become a computer science professor, chief data scientist, or artificial intelligence researcher.

Best Jobs with a PhD in Computer Science

Computer Research Scientist
Computer Science Professor
Research and Development Lead
Computer Systems Engineer
Information Technology Manager

What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Computer Science?

The average salary for someone with a PhD in Computer Science is $131,000 per year , according to PayScale. Your actual salary will vary depending on your specific position, location, and experience. In fact, with a PhD, you could work as a chief data scientist and make between $136,000 and $272,000 or as a senior software engineer and make $104,000 to $195,000.

Highest-Paying Computer Science Jobs for PhD Grads

Best computer science jobs with a doctorate.

The best computer science jobs with a doctorate degree all earn a high salary and have high projected growth in the next few years. These jobs cover a wide range of computer science disciplines, meaning that you’ll easily be able to find a position doing something you enjoy.

A chief data scientist is in charge of the data analytics and data science departments of an organization. They are responsible for the approval of new database system designs, data strategies, and data management decisions.

Salary with a Computer Science PhD: $179,351
Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
Number of Jobs: 33,000
Highest-Paying States: Oregon, Arizona, Texas, Massachusetts, Washington

A chief information officer is an IT executive responsible for managing and overseeing the computer and information technology departments of a company. Also known as CTOs, they are responsible for delegating tasks and approving innovation and technology upgrade ideas proposed by their teams.

Salary with a Computer Science PhD: $168,680
Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
Number of Jobs: 482,000
Highest-Paying States: New York, California, New Jersey, Washington, District of Columbia

A senior computer scientist heads the research department of a computer science, artificial intelligence, or computer engineering field. These professionals, along with their research team, are tasked with developing efficient and optimal computer solutions across a wide range of sectors.

Salary with a Computer Science PhD: $153,972

An IT security architect is a cyber and information security professional responsible for developing, maintaining, and upgrading the IT and network security infrastructure of a business or organization. Additionally, they oversee an organization’s data, communication systems, and software systems security aspects.

Salary with a Computer Science PhD: $128,414
Job Outlook : 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030
Number of Jobs: 165,200
Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Rhode Island, Delaware, Virginia, Marlyand

A computer science professor is a university professor who educates college students concerning basic and advanced computer science subjects. They are responsible for creating and instructing a course curriculum as well as testing their students. Some computer science professors also work as research faculty at a university.

Salary with a Computer Science PhD: $86,712
Job Outlook: 12% job growth from 2020 to 2030
Number of Jobs: 1,276,900
Highest-Paying States: California, Oregon, District of Columbia, New York, Massachusetts

Is a PhD in Computer Science Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Computer Science is worth it for anyone wanting to work in senior professions in the field of technology. This doctoral degree opens its recipients up to numerous career opportunities across academia, research and development, technology management, and chief technical positions.

Getting a computer science PhD equips you with specialized skills and extensive research capabilities. During your studies, you’ll get the opportunity to contribute to the rapidly developing world of technology with your original dissertation and specialize in data science, network security, or computing systems.

Additional Reading About Computer Science

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PhD in Computer Science FAQ

The preferred GPA for a computer science PhD is 3.5 or above. Keep in mind that meeting the minimum requirement doesn’t guarantee acceptance. The higher you can get your GPA during your bachelor’s and master’s, the more likely it is you will be accepted to the PhD program of your choice.

The standardized exam you need to take to get a PhD in Computer Science is the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). The GRE score requirements will vary from university to university and several schools have currently waived GRE requirements due to the coronavirus pandemic.

You can choose from a wide range of potential research subjects for your computer science PhD, including computer algorithms, data science, artificial intelligence , or cyber security. You can also research business process modeling, robotics, quantum computing, machine learning, or other big data topics.

You can get into a computer science PhD program by impressing the admissions committee and the school’s computer science graduate department with your skills, experience, grades, and desired research topic. Students with a 3.5 or higher GPA, a high GRE score, extensive IT skills, and an impressive research topic have a higher chance of admission.

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PhD Program Admissions

Chien-Ming Huang and a student work in a robotics lab.

Applying to our PhD Program

We’re thrilled that you are interested in our PhD program in computer science! This page provides an overview of the application process, some guidelines, and answers to specific questions. Please check our FAQ before emailing [email protected] with any questions not answered here.

Our program accepts a large number of applicants each year from a diverse range of backgrounds. Our applicants come directly from undergraduate or master’s programs, as well as industry positions, and from within United States and numerous countries around the world.

Visit the interactive PhD program statistics page to view historical program data pertaining to admissions, enrollment, retention/attrition/completion, and time to degree conferral. (Select “ Computer Science” from the “Choose Program” drop-down menu.)

Ready to start your PhD application?

We’re ready for you. Click on the link below to start your application to become a PhD student at Johns Hopkins University

The Application: General Advice

The most important question we ask when reviewing applications is "Will this individual excel at research?" Every part of your application is helpful insofar as it answers this question. The three major components of an application are the statement, letters of recommendation, and grades.

This is one of the most important parts of your application; it lets us get to know you and creates a narrative of your academic career and future plans. Before you write your statement, start by thinking about what you want us to learn about you. Make a list of important achievements, perspectives, and goals. Build your statement around this list. We are looking for students who have made the most of the opportunities they have been presented with and who are smart, creative, and motivated. Keep in mind that we also have your CV and letters of recommendation, so we don’t necessarily need a list of all your accomplishments. However, your statement can fill in the narrative around what you did and, more specifically, why you did it. What motivates you? What are your research interests and why? These details aren’t found elsewhere in your application, so focus on them in your statement.

There are a few things we suggest not including in your statement. While it’s tempting to give a rationale for why you are applying to our program, don’t include it if it’s uninformed. Consider: “I want to apply to Johns Hopkins because it’s one of the premiere academic programs.” We know that already! If you do have specific reasons to be interested in our program (e.g. location, a specific project, a faculty member, etc.), be sure to mention them.

In terms of your motivation, be specific! Don’t write: “I’ve wanted to do a PhD in CS since I was six years old.” We don’t trust that six-year-olds make good career decisions. If you write “I have always found AREA X fascinating,” explain why.

Letters of Recommendation

The two most important factors of a recommendation letter are: 1) select someone who knows you well, and 2) select someone who knows how to write a letter.

First, it’s tempting to ask Professor X. to write a letter for you because they are a well-known person in the field. While we can better contextualize letters from people we know, it’s only helpful if the letter contains meaningful information. If Professor X. writes, “I’ve met the applicant a few times and they seem sharp,” that’s not useful information. It’s more important to select someone who knows you well and can discuss your achievements in detail.

Second, your letter writer should know how to write a letter. Academic research programs look for different things than a company. We often read letters from work supervisors that say nice things, but don’t speak to the qualities we find most important.

Of course, it’s a balance. You want someone who knows you well, but they still need to know how to write a good letter of recommendation.

We understand that three letters are a lot, especially for an undergraduate applying directly to a PhD program. We don’t expect each candidate to have three amazing letters. Your choices should be about balance: you want people who know you well, can write good academic letters, and know the research field. Use your choice of your three letter-writers to create this balance.

There isn’t much you can do about your grades—you have the grades you have. However, we do not use any grade cutoffs or thresholds in admissions. We want to see that you did well and excelled in whatever program you were in. Did you push yourself to take upper-level classes? Did you do well in the classes most directly related to your research area? If you have special circumstances that explain some of your grades, please include a description of them in your statement.

The Whiting School of Engineering does not require GRE General Test scores for applications to our PhD programs.

TOEFL or IELTS

Non-native English speakers must take the TOEFL or IELTS exams. Details on accepted exams, scores, and exceptions to this requirement can be found here .

Application Tips

There are many helpful guides for PhD applications. Here are a few we recommend:

How to be a Successful PhD Student (co-authored by our own Mark Dredze )
What Readers Look for in a Statement of Purpose
Student Perspectives on Applying to NLP PhD Programs
A Survival Guide to a PhD

Application Deadlines

Application Deadline:

The deadline for fall is December 15th. (No recruiting for spring admissions.)

The application will be available for submission on or around August 15.

Vivien Thomas Scholars

The Vivien Thomas Scholars Initiative (VTSI) is an endowed fellowship program at Johns Hopkins for PhD students in STEM fields. It provides full tuition, stipend, and benefits while also providing targeted mentoring, networking, community, and professional development opportunities. Students who have attended a historically black college and university or other minority serving institution for undergraduate study are eligible to apply. To be considered for the VTSI, all application and supplementary materials must be received by December 1, 2021.

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Our PhD Program

Applications
Resources For Current Doctoral Students
Why Brown CS?
Recent PhD Graduates
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Testimonials From Our PhD Alums
Graduate Women In Computer Science (GWiCS)

Working with faculty who are leaders in the field, our PhD students conduct research with real-world impact. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values for Brown CS, and we’ve integrated societal and ethical issues across our graduate and undergraduate curricula. Our new faculty positions focus on both core computer science and emerging CS + X areas.

This page is for prospective PhD students. Current students, go here .

After graduation, our alums contribute widely to science, learning, culture, and their communities. In the last year alone, our PhD alums were named an ACM Fellow and an IEEE Fellow and received a CCS Test-of-Time Award . Click the links that follow for recent news stories about our PhD students and alums .

"The breadth, depth, and the easy camaraderie of the computer science department made my stay at Brown for a PhD both a joy and an intellectually rewarding experience. I am also incredibly proud that both my sons also did computer science at Brown and have gone on to become amazing software engineers and entrepreneurs." – Sridhar Ramaswamy , SVP of AI at Snowflake, former SVP of Ads and Commerce at Google (for more testimonials, click here )

We offer world-class research and education in an interdisciplinary environment (for more detail on the below, click here ):

A lower PhD student/faculty ratio than many of our peers

Full financial support while completing the degree: full tuition, health insurance, and a generous stipend

Teaching assistantships and course instructor opportunities for students who want to hone their teaching skills

Shared offices that overlook Brown's scenic campus

Opportunities to serve on important committees and organize seminars and other events

Students can take courses from Harvard, MIT, RISD, and other institutions without additional cost (see here for details and restrictions)

"Attending Brown was an extraordinary and transformative experience for many reasons: the close-knit community of graduate students that led to the strongest friendships I ever made, the approachable faculty, the generous mentorship by professors, the remarkable undergraduate students I had the opportunity to teach and work with, and the department and university resources that provided a comfortable living in beautiful Providence and connections with industry and academia." – Alexandra Papoutsaki , Associate Professor in Computer Science, Pomona College (for more testimonials, click here )

Computer Science at Brown University Providence, Rhode Island 02912 USA Phone: 401-863-7600 Map & Directions / Contact Us

Ph.D. in Computer Science

Ph.d. program requirements.

The PhD degree requires 72 graduate-level credits, including:

no 5000-level CS courses
these credits traditionally cannot be transferred in, you must actually take at least 6 credits of coursework at UVA to get a UVA PhD
CS 8897 and CS 9897 (Graduate Teaching Instruction) cannot be used to satisfy this 24-credit requirement (but see below)
at least 12 credits in any combination of CS 8897 and CS 9897 (Graduate Teaching Instruction), corresponding to two semesters as a full-time, 20 hour per week TA (see Chapter 3.2)
Completion of the Qualifying Examination (see Chapter 5)
Completion of the PhD Proposal (see Chapter 6.3)
Completion of the Oral Defense of the written Dissertation (see Chapter 6.4)
Finally, complete the “ Graduate Student Leave Request ” form (see Section 2.5) to leave the program.

These requirements have significant overlap with the MCS and MS degree requirements; many students choose to earn one of those Master’s degrees as part of their PhD studies.

Application Requirements

Computer science background requirements.

The Department of Computer Science does not require that applicants hold a bachelor's degree in Computer Science. However, applicants are expected to have a strong background in Computer Science. A suitable background would include courses in the following core areas:

Data Structures
Discrete Mathematics
Assembly Language and Computer Organization
Programming in a procedural language such as C, C#, C++, or Java.

Applicants are also expected to have taken several (but not necessarily all) courses in specialized areas:

Operating Systems
Programming Languages
Artificial Intelligence
Computer Networks
Automata and Formal Languages
Software Engineering

A year of college-level Calculus is also required. In general, experience gained working is not considered equivalent to successful completion of the courses listed above.

Grade Point Average

There is no minimum GPA required for admission. However, most applicants who are offered admission to our program have a GPA of at least 3.3 (out of 4.0). The grades in Computer Science, mathematics and related courses are more important than the overall GPA.

GRE scores are optional.

Letters of Reference

If possible, letters of references should be written by faculty at a university previously attended. Letters of reference from Computer Science faculty are preferred, but references from employers are welcome. References should pay particular attention to academic achievements and evidence of independent, creative problem solving.

TOEFL/IELTS Scores

If you are a permanent resident of the U.S., TOEFL is not required
If you received a 4-year degree at an English-speaking institution (whether or not the institution is in the U.S.), TOEFL/IELTS is not required.
If you received a 4-year degree at a non -English-speaking institution and a Master's degree from an English-speaking institution, TOEFL/IELTS is required.
Note that if you have a solid command of written and spoken English, TOEFL/IELTS waivers are possible! Contact via email, [email protected] , explaining why you believe TOEFL/IELTS can be waived (include evidence such as verification of duties as a Teaching Assistant that required significant interactions in English, copies of expired TOEFL/IELTS scores, presentations at conferences in English, etc.).

It is unusual that we offer admission to an applicant with an overall TOEFL score below 90 / IELTS below 6.5. Scores can be sent electronically to UVa at institution code B875. Some students with lower scores may be required to complete the UVA Summer English for Academic Purposes Program prior to admission.

Application Evaluation

Applications are evaluated based on the following factors:

Background in Computer Science (including project work)
Grade Point Average (GPA)
Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
Letters of reference
Personal statement
TOEFL/IELTS scores

Applications are evaluated in their entirety. A weakness in one factor might be mitigated by strength in another.

Financial Aid / Tuition

Occasionally, the school of Engineering offers Master Fellowships. More information can be found on the Engineering Cost Aid webpage: https://engineering.virginia.edu/future-grads/graduate-admissions/cost-aid , and you can learn more about UVA Fellowships here: https://citizenscholars.virginia.edu/fellowships

PhD students are usually admitted with a financial aid package in the form of a First-Year Research Assistantship that allows students to explore research with various faculty members and find their best match. It is expected that students will join a research group by the end of their first year and then be supported as a Research Assistant (RA). This financial aid package includes a competitive stipend, tuition, fees, and health insurance coverage. Details of this award are given at the time of your notification of acceptance into the Computer Science PhD program.

You are encouraged to apply to outside sources for fellowships or you can apply for federal assistance by filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid .

The UVA Tuition and Fees page includes the costs per academic year by school.

CS Admissions Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do i apply.

Please visit this Web page to apply.

When is the application deadline?

See details in the section above (Admissions).

How much does it cost to apply? Can this fee be waived?

Visit this UVA Engineering FAQ page for details on the cost to apply, and learn if your fee can be waived.

Is the TOEFL/IELTS required?

International students must have an outstanding command of the English language in order to enroll at the University of Virginia. The TOEFL/IELTS exam is required of all applicants if the language first learned and spoken in the home is not English, and they are not permanent residents. However, TOEFL/IELTS is not required if the applicant has received a 4-year degree at an English-speaking institution (whether or not the institution is in the U.S.). (If the applicant has a 4-year degree from a non-English-speaking institution and a Master's degree from an English-speaking institution, TOEFL/IELTS is still required.) It is unusual that we offer admission to an applicant with an overall TOEFL score below 90 / IELTS below 6.5.

I scored less than 22 on the Speaking section of TOEFL. Can I still apply?

We review all applications thoroughly, along a number of dimensions. It is unusual that we offer admission to an applicant with an overall TOEFL score below 90/ IELTS score of 6.5.

Where do I send my GRE and/or TOEFL/IELTS scores?

The Institution code for School of Engineering and Applied Science of the University of Virginia for the GRE is 5820. The code for TOEFL is B875. There is not a specific code for the Department of Computer Science.

I'm taking TOEFL/IELTS or GRE after your deadline (Dec 15). If I apply will these scores make it into my application and be seen by the admissions committee?

We will start evaluating applications soon after the Dec 15 deadline. Applicants should submit the most complete application they can, based on the information they have at the time (e.g., current test scores, even if new test scores are anticipated).Those applications that are complete will be considered first. We will continue to evaluate applications into early next year, until we have completed our offers. As we are reviewing applications, we will certainly consider updated scores as the arrive at the University of Virginia. There is no need to email us to tell us that new scores are being sent.

Should I mail or should I upload my materials with my application?

We strongly discourage applicants from mailing in any items that can be uploaded to avoid delays in your application review, and we ask that you not send duplicate copies of previously uploaded documents. If you still need to mail documents to our office, please send them to: For US Postal: Graduate School of Engineering and Applied Science Admissions P.O. Box 401103 Charlottesville, VA 22904 For UPS/FEDEX: Graduate School of Engineering and Applied Science Admissions 1001 Emmet Street North Room 209B Carruthers Hall Charlottesville, VA 22903

I’ve submitted my application and all supporting materials. Why does my application status still show as incomplete?

We will fully review your application with unofficial test scores and unofficial transcripts. Your application will only show as "complete" when your application has been submitted, your official scores and transcripts have been received and all three letters of recommendations have been received. An application is complete for review with unofficial transcripts and self-reported scores, though the checklist will still show incomplete. Please note that all official transcripts are received in our main admissions office and scanned or entered into our system manually. If you feel that your materials should have been received by now, but are NOT showing up when you login to your account, please note that the Graduate Admissions Office processes a very large number of applications and it may take longer than expected for your documents/information to appear online (in your account). It is very likely that your materials have been received, but have not been loaded into our application system yet.

If I email you my information (e.g., GPA, GRE scores, etc.) before I apply, can you tell me the chance of being accepted?

The graduate admissions committee considers many factors in an application, including more than just GPA and test scores. In particular, letters of reference and your personal statement are extremely important. Therefore, we are unfortunately unable to provide any information before the committee considers your full application.

I still have other questions. Is there anyone available to help me?

Yes! For program/degree specific questions, please send an email to [email protected]. For application support and specific questions regarding the application process, please contact: Central Graduate Admissions [email protected] 434-243-0209

The information contained on this website is for informational purposes only. The Undergraduate Record and Graduate Record represent the official repository for academic program requirements. These publications may be found here .

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Phd program, find your passion for research.

Duke Computer Science gives incoming students an opportunity to investigate a range of topics, research problems, and research groups before committing to an advisor in the first year. Funding from the department and Duke makes it possible to attend group meetings, seminars, classes and colloquia. Students may work on multiple problems simultaneously while finding the topic that will motivate them through their first project. Sharing this time of learning and investigation with others in the cohort helps create lasting collaborators and friends.

Write a research proposal the first year and finish the research the second under the supervision of the chosen advisor and committee; present the research results to the committee and peers. Many students turn their RIP work into a conference paper and travel to present it.

Course work requirements are written to support the department's research philosophy. Pass up to four of the required six courses in the first two years to give time and space for immersing oneself in the chosen area.

Years three through five continue as the students go deeper and deeper into a research area and their intellectual community broadens to include collaborators from around the world. Starting in year three, the advisor funds the student's work, usually through research grants. The Preliminary exam that year is the opportunity for the student to present their research to date, to share work done by others on the topic, and to get feedback and direction for the Ph.D. from the committee, other faculty, and peers.

Most Ph.D students defend in years five and six. While Duke and the department guarantee funding through the fifth year, advisors and the department work with students to continue support for work that takes longer.

Teaching is a vital part of the Ph.D. experience. Students are required to TA for two semesters, although faculty are ready to work with students who want more involvement. The Graduate School's Certificate in College Teaching offers coursework, peer review, and evaluation of a teaching portfolio for those who want to teach. In addition, the Department awards a Certificates of Distinction in Teaching for graduating PhD students who have demonstrated excellence in and commitment to teaching and mentoring.

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PhD in Computer Science

Ranked among the top 25 programs in the United States, our PhD program features world-renowned faculty, interdisciplinary research, and a spirit of collaboration.

Master of Science/Doctor of Philosophy (MS/PhD)

Most computer science graduate students are admitted into the MS/PhD track. That means they are intending to work toward a PhD, but will acquire a master’s degree along the way. During the first stage of a student’s graduate career, he or she will be simultaneously working toward the MS degree and compiling a portfolio, both of which are requirements of the PhD.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Students admitted into the PhD-only program usually arrive at UMass having already earned an MS degree at an accredited university.

Application information & deadlines

December 15, 2023, computer science.

The College of Information and Computer Sciences (CICS) offers a world-class curriculum in support of advanced degrees.

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Doctor of Philosophy Degree

The purpose of the Doctor of Philosophy program in computer science is to prepare students for research and teaching positions in universities and colleges, and for research and leadership positions in industry and government. The primary aim of the program is to train students in the methods of scientific inquiry and independent research.

This is accomplished through advanced coursework and active participation with the faculty in their research programs. Doctor of Philosophy students are expected to have a broad knowledge of all fields of computer science and have a deep understanding of at least one of its areas. In addition to this requirement, a Doctor of Philosophy student must be up to date in all the developments in his/her major area of specialization. The most important component of the Doctor of Philosophy program is learning to perform independent and significant research in one's area of specialization.

Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy degree typically are completed in four to six years, depending on whether or not a student enters the program with an MS in computer science.

To ensure sufficient breadth at the graduate level, PhD students must complete at least 8 graduate courses offered by the Computer Science department (four by the end of their first year) with a GPA of at least 3.5, and a grade in each course of at least 3.0. The 8 courses must include at least two courses each in two of the three areas (Systems, Applications, Foundations/Theory) and one course in the third area. The remaining three courses can be selected from other graduate courses offered by the department, and in some cases, from other departments as needed to advance research. The Course Classification list is below.

The set of courses that students plan to take must be endorsed by their research advisor and the faculty Graduate Advisor. An approved study plan must be on file as part of completing the PhD degree requirements and advancing to candidacy. Please submit a PhD Study Plan to the Staff Graduate Program Advisor (SGPA) for review, or schedule an appointment with the SGPA to review your PhD Study Plan.

PhD Study Plan

For complete details on the PhD program, see the Graduate Student Handbook linked from this page: https://www.cs.ucsb.edu/ index.php/education/graduate/ resources

With the approval of the Computer Science department's Graduate Advising and Affairs Committee (GAC), a PhD student may petition for exceptions for up to 3 of their 8 required Computer Science 200-level courses. These may be courses taken at another university, or from another department at UCSB. It is strongly preferred that you request exceptions for courses to fulfill electives over area requirements. This is an internal process and does not require approval from the Graduate Division.

To begin the process, you should write a paragraph explaining why this particular course is essential to your PhD studies. If it is a non-UCSB course, please provide a syllabus and/or course description to a faculty member in the department who teaches a course of similar material. The course need not be an exact equivalent of a course at UCSB but must be found to be comparable to graduate level courses in the department. The course exception must then be approved by 1) the “owner” of the course at UCSB, 2) your faculty advisor, and 3) the GAC. If the course is a UCSB course from another department, you make skip getting approval from the course “owner” but steps 2 and 3 still apply. Once you have the agreement of the course “owner” at UCSB (if applicable) and your faculty advisor, send the corresponding materials and approvals to the Graduate Student Advisor in the CS office, where it will then be sent to the GAC for review. A grade of B or equivalent must have been obtained in the excepted course in order for it to be considered for fulfilling one of your course requirements. Verification of course grade must be submitted to the GAC. Please also make sure you have an up-to-date PhD Study Plan on file, indicating how this course will be used to fulfill your course requirements.

All PhD students must enroll in CS 595N Faculty Research Seminar in the Winter quarter of their first year. In this seminar the Faculty will present their research focus to introduce students to the breadth of research within the department and to help students in identifying potential advisors. In addition to completing CS 595N, a PhD student must complete at least 4 units of CS 596, Directed Reading and Research, in their first year. PhD students are encouraged to get in the habit of registering for a minimum of four (4.0) 596 units every quarter. Once you complete your course requirements, you will register for a minimum of eight (8.0) 596 units every quarter until you graduate. Furthermore, all new graduate students must establish a GPA in their first quarter at UCSB. For CS students, this means completing at least one CS 2xx numbered course in your first quarter with a grade of B or better.

Graduate Courses & Their Area Classifications (Foundations/Theory, Systems, or Applications).

Graduate Courses

Diverse group of students talking in CNSI lobby

To engage students in research during their first year, 4 units of CS 596 Directed Research is required.

Research is about pushing the limits of our understanding in the field of computer science. This can involve the design and execution of experiments, the proving of new theorems, the solving of open problems, the gathering and analysis of data sets, the invention of novel systems, the creation of new algorithms, the discovery of new applications of computing and/or among many other things. Students must manage their time wisely between research, course work, teaching, and growing their personal networks. It is important to start the process of finding a research adviser early, and to stay engaged with both other students and their PhD committees throughout the process.

After selecting an area of research, a student forms a doctoral committee to supervise dissertation research. The doctoral committee must be chaired by a ladder faculty member from the Department and should include a minimum of 3 UC ladder faculty; 2 (including the chair) must be in Computer Science, although faculty from other UCSB departments may also be members. In special circumstances, non-UCSB faculty may be members.

Teaching Assistant Requirement

All PhD students must work as a Teaching Assistant (TA) for a minimum of one quarter for a Computer Science undergraduate course.

PhD students must successfully complete three examinations:

Major Area Examination (qualifying examination)

Thesis Proposal

Dissertation defense.

Students at table and one standing and drawing on whiteboard

Major Area Examination (MAE)

After the doctoral committee approves a student's proposed major area, a major area examination tests the student's knowledge of this area and any necessary supporting areas. The intent of the MAE is to ensure the student has done a thorough examination of related work in their chosen field, to ensure sufficient background preparation to begin meaningful research; and to help the committee ensure the student’s selected research area has enough opportunity for meaningful contribution. The MAE must be completed by the end of the third year of study for the student to remain in good academic standing in the department. As a part of this oral examination, a student submits a set of relevant papers (a "Reading List," submitted in advance of your MAE to all committee members) from the major area and prepares a brief presentation. Passing this examination allows this student to advance to candidacy for the doctoral degree. Note: although a student may complete the MAE talk/exam without first completing all PhD degree course and TA requirements, a student cannot officially "Advance to Candidacy" until all of these requirements are met and a completed, signed PhD Study Plan is on file with the CS Student Affairs office. If this is the case, a student's advancement paperwork will be held and not signed nor submitted to UCSB's Graduate Division until all requirements are completed and verified. The MAE cannot be combined with any other oral examination, including the Proposal.

After passing the major area examination, a student prepares a dissertation proposal that describes the dissertation topic, summarizes the relevant background literature, and presents a comprehensive research plan for the doctoral dissertation. The thesis proposal examination determines the feasibility of the research plan and the appropriateness of the research topic. The outcome of the proposal can be viewed as a contract between the student and the committee – the committee and the student should agree on a set of work that, if completed to the satisfaction of the committee, will result in the awarding of the PhD degree to the student. The Department strongly recommends that the proposal be completed by the end of the student’s fourth year. Further, the Department strongly recommends that the proposal be completed at a minimum of one year before the student’s dissertation defense.

The final examination is the defense of the candidate's dissertation, which consists of a public seminar and an evaluation by the candidate's doctoral committee on whether the student has successfully defended the dissertation. Students are expected to have completed their dissertation and defended their thesis by the end of year 5 (or soon thereafter). Students should be nearing graduation by the end of 15 quarters, and are expected to completed their PhD degree in a maximum of 18 quarters to remain in good academic standing. For detailed information about filing your dissertation, please pay close attention to the details provided by UCSB's Graduate Division, which you can find here: https://www.graddiv.ucsb.edu/academic-services/filing

Study Postgraduate

Phd in computer science (2024 entry).

Computer Science students at the University of Warwick

Course code

30 September 2024

3-4 years full-time; Up to 7 years part-time

Qualification

Computer Science

University of Warwick

Find out more about our PhD in Computer Science.

The PhD in Computer Science offers exciting opportunities to do cutting-edge research in an internationally renowned environment. The results of the 2021 REF rank Warwick Computer Science 4th out of 90 UK Computer Science departments. This cements our position as one of the top Computer Science departments in the UK, a position we have held for some time under different assessment methodologies.

Course overview

The PhD program is suitable for skilled and highly-motivated students to do research at the frontiers of Computer Science in a broad range of theoretical and applied topics. The program is meant to train students for high-profile jobs in both Academia and Industry.

General entry requirements

Minimum requirements.

2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) and preferably an MSc in a related subject.

English language requirements

You can find out more about our English language requirements Link opens in a new window . This course requires the following:

IELTS overall score of 6.5, minimum component scores not below 6.0.

International qualifications

We welcome applications from students with other internationally recognised qualifications.

For more information, please visit the international entry requirements page Link opens in a new window .

Additional requirements

There are no additional entry requirements for this course.

Our research

Research themes.

The current research themes include:

Artificial Intelligence and Human-Centred Computing
Applied Computing
Data Science, Systems and Security
Theory and Foundations

Full details on our current research is available on the Computer Science website. Link opens in a new window

Find a supervisor

Before you make a formal application, your proposal is emailed to a potential supervisor for their consideration. You may not be considered for a research degree if you do not have (and we could not identify) an academic willing to supervise your research.

Explore the research interests of our academic staff. Link opens in a new window

You can also see our general University guidance about finding a supervisor. Link opens in a new window

Tuition fees

Tuition fees are payable for each year of your course at the start of the academic year, or at the start of your course, if later. Academic fees cover the cost of tuition, examinations and registration and some student amenities.

Find your research course fees

Fee Status Guidance

The University carries out an initial fee status assessment based on information provided in the application and according to the guidance published by UKCISA. Students are classified as either Home or Overseas Fee status and this can determine the tuition fee and eligibility of certain scholarships and financial support.

If you receive an offer, your fee status will be stated with the tuition fee information. If you believe your fee status has been incorrectly classified you can complete a fee status assessment questionnaire (follow the instructions in your offer) and provide the required documentation for this to be reassessed.

The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) provides guidance to UK universities on fees status criteria, you can find the latest guidance on the impact of Brexit on fees and student support on the UKCISA website .

Additional course costs

Please contact your academic department for information about department specific costs, which should be considered in conjunction with the more general costs below, such as:

Core text books
Printer credits
Dissertation binding
Robe hire for your degree ceremony

Scholarships and bursaries

Scholarships and financial support

Find out about the different funding routes available, including; postgraduate loans, scholarships, fee awards and academic department bursaries.

Computer Science Funding Opportunities

Find out more about the various funding opportunities that are available in our department.

Living costs

Find out more about the cost of living as a postgraduate student at the University of Warwick.

Computer Science at Warwick

What are computers capable of? How do we use them to solve major world problems? What are their limitations?

Computer Science at Warwick offers you a community of excellence across the breadth of computer science. Join like-minded thinkers and friends who relish the challenges of shaping future technology.

You will study the theoretical foundation in established areas of the discipline. You will then apply your learning to industrially relevant problems, developing technical and transferable skills which will position you excellently for your future career.

Find out more about us on our website.

Our Postgraduate Taught courses

Computer Science (MSc)
Data Analytics (MSc)

Our Postgraduate Research courses

Computer Science (MSc by Research)
Computer Science (PhD)

How to apply

The application process for courses that start in September and October 2024 will open on 2 October 2023.

For research courses that start in September and October 2024 the application deadline for students who require a visa to study in the UK is 2 August 2024. This should allow sufficient time to complete the admissions process and to obtain a visa to study in the UK.

How to apply for a postgraduate research course

After you’ve applied

Find out how we process your application.

Applicant Portal

Track your application and update your details.

Admissions statement

See Warwick’s postgraduate admissions policy.

Join a live chat

Ask questions and engage with Warwick.

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Postgraduate fairs.

Throughout the year we attend exhibitions and fairs online and in-person around the UK. These events give you the chance to explore our range of postgraduate courses, and find out what it’s like studying at Warwick. You’ll also be able to speak directly with our student recruitment team, who will be able to help answer your questions.

Join a live chat with our staff and students, who are here to answer your questions and help you learn more about postgraduate life at Warwick. You can join our general drop-in sessions or talk to your prospective department and student services.

Departmental events

Some academic departments hold events for specific postgraduate programmes, these are fantastic opportunities to learn more about Warwick and your chosen department and course.

See our online departmental events

Warwick Talk and Tours

A Warwick talk and tour lasts around two hours and consists of an overview presentation from one of our Recruitment Officers covering the key features, facilities and activities that make Warwick a leading institution. The talk is followed by a campus tour which is the perfect way to view campus, with a current student guiding you around the key areas on campus.

Connect with us

Learn more about Postgraduate study at the University of Warwick.

We may have revised the information on this page since publication. See the edits we have made and content history .

Why Warwick

Discover why Warwick is one of the best universities in the UK and renowned globally.

9th in the UK (The Guardian University Guide 2024) Link opens in a new window

67th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2024) Link opens in a new window

6th most targeted university by the UK's top 100 graduate employers Link opens in a new window

(The Graduate Market in 2024, High Fliers Research Ltd. Link opens in a new window )

About the information on this page

This information is applicable for 2024 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply. Please read our terms and conditions to find out more.

College of Computing

Computer science graduate students at Georgia Tech

Graduate Computer Science Programs Climb in Latest National Rankings

Tuesday, april 9, 2024, ben snedeker.

Computer science (CS) at Georgia Tech continues to advance in the latest national rankings, improving overall and in several key specialty fields, including AI.

U.S. News and World Report revealed its 2024 Best Graduate Programs list this week. Climbing one spot from last year, Georgia Tech ranks No. 7 overall for graduate CS studies.

Georgia Tech Interim Dean of Computing Alex Orso

"I am delighted to see our graduate computer science programs earn this well-deserved recognition," says Alex Orso, interim dean of the College of Computing.

"It's solid evidence that there is growing national awareness of our staunch commitment to enhancing academic quality, expanding research opportunities, and fostering a vibrant campus community for our graduate students."

[Georgia Tech Rises in National Rankings for Undergraduate AI and Cybersecurity]

Besides rising in the ranks for overall CS, Georgia Tech showed its strength in many specific areas. Georgia Tech ranks No. 5 for artificial intelligence (AI) and No. 14 for programming languages. Each is up one position from the 2023 rankings.

Tech climbed two spots for systems, ranking No. 4, and three spots for theory, ranking No. 9.

"Through investments in faculty development, state-of-the-art facilities, and innovative programs, the College of Computing remains at the forefront of higher education, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to thrive in today's technology-driven and dynamic world," says Orso.

Participants in Georgia Tech's 2023 Cybersecurity Summer Institute

CS at Georgia Tech earned a peer assessment score of 4.5 in the 2024 U.S. News and World Report rankings. The score places Georgia Tech in a three-way tie for No. 7 with the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Washington.

The rankings are "based solely on the results of surveys sent to academic officials in fall 2023 and early 2024 in computer science," according to U.S. News and World Report.

Read more to find out how Georgia Tech fared in the latest rankings across campus.

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As we step into 2024 and reflect on the previous year, 2023 was a huge year for news stories here at @GTcomputing . Dive into the 184 published news stories of 2023 and see if theres anything you missed! https://t.co/zUHBPiiEwp — Georgia Tech Computing (@gtcomputing) January 11, 2024

@gtcomputing Students do more than just code! Sarah Jiang is pursuing her degree while continuing to follow her passion for art, collaborating with Nike and chart-topping artists. https://t.co/sFboZ5OSvT — Georgia Tech Computing (@gtcomputing) March 11, 2024

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UTCS Direct

U.S. News Ranks UT Austin Computer Science Among Best in Graduate Program Rankings

Submitted by Staci R Norman on Tue, 04/09/2024 - 11:00am

Number 7 Best Graduate Computer Science Program in the Nation

The 2024-2025 rankings tout computer science at The University of Texas at Austin as among the seven best nationally.

The UT Computer Science graduate program continues to be recognized as a top 10 program in the nation , as well as among the top 5 public schools and the best in Texas, according to U.S. News & World Report’s partial release of its most recent “Best Graduate Schools” released today. The magazine ranks programs in alternating years.

UT Computer Science ranks 7th nationally, tied with Georgia Tech and the University of Washington. Four “ specialties ,” or areas of research, at UTCS also rank in the top ten, with Programming Languages coming in 7th, Theory ranked 8th, Artificial Intelligence ranked 9th, and Systems ranked 10th.

U.S. News has delayed release of rankings in additional areas in which The University of Texas at Austin has historically achieved No. 1 and top 10 rankings. Even with the partial release of the graduate rankings, UT maintained its top 10 spot for five colleges and schools. Overall, the University has 42 graduate schools and specialty programs ranked in the top 10 when combined with previous years.

“Our talent is what puts UT at the leading edge of discovery in AI and robotics, life sciences, population research, and many other disciplines that are at the forefront of solving many of the world’s most pressing problems and bettering society,” said President Jay Hartzell.

U.S. News & World Report’s graduate rankings, which are published separately from the yearly ranking of undergraduate programs, are considered the gold standard of graduate and professional rankings. They are based on surveys of academic leaders and, for select programs, additional quantitative measures including placement test scores, student/faculty ratios, research expenditures, salary by profession and job placement success.

The publication updates some of its specialty rankings each year and republishes the most recent rankings in other areas.

Read the full UT News Release .

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U.S. News Releases 2024 Best Graduate Programs Rankings

Find the top-ranked graduate schools in business, education, law, nursing and other fields.

U.S. News Ranks Best Graduate Schools

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To help prospective graduate students find a school that fits their needs, U.S. News released the 2024 rankings for multiple graduate fields.

Depending on the job or field, earning a graduate degree may lead to higher earnings, career advancement and specialized skill development.

But with several types of degrees and hundreds of graduate schools, it can be difficult to narrow down the options. To help prospective graduate students find a school that fits their needs, U.S. News released its 2024 Best Graduate Schools rankings today. They evaluate business, education, fine arts, health, law, library studies, nursing, public affairs, science, and social sciences and humanities graduate programs. Medical school and engineering rankings are not being released at this time.

A notable methodology change includes a new salary indicator based on profession in the business rankings.

Additionally, for the first time in four years, there are new rankings for a blend of doctoral and master's programs in audiology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, pharmacy, nurse midwifery and speech-language pathology. Graduate programs in nurse anesthesia and social work are also ranked for the first time since 2016 and 2022, respectively. Those and other specialty rankings are based on reputation ratings from scholars at other surveyed schools.

Read each program's specific methodology for the most detailed explanations of all the changes. The rankings are one source of information among many that prospective college students can use to inform their college decision. Below is a summary of the top-ranked schools in four major graduate program areas:

Best Law Schools

Best business schools, best nursing schools, best education schools.

Among the top 10 law schools . Yale Law School in Connecticut and California-based Stanford Law School shared the top spot again. The University of Chicago Law School in Illinois maintained its No. 3 rank, followed by a four-way tie at No. 4: Duke University School of Law in North Carolina, Harvard Law School in Massachusetts, the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School and the University of Virginia School of Law .

Columbia Law School in New York ranked No. 8 again, while there was a three-way tie for No. 9: New York University School of Law , Northwestern University's Pritzker School of Law in Illinois and the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor Law School .

Looking beyond the top 10, multiple law schools moved up in the rankings. William & Mary Law School in Virginia, for instance, jumped nine spots from a tie at No. 45 to a five-way tie at No. 36.

U.S. News also ranked 13 law specialties: business/corporate, clinical training, constitutional, contracts/commercial, criminal, dispute resolution, environmental, health care, intellectual property, international, legal writing, tax and trial advocacy. (You can filter by specialty on the main ranking page .)

Meanwhile, in the part-time law school rankings – which consists of law schools with at least 20 part-time students enrolled in fall 2022 and fall 2023 – the top three stayed the same. The Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C., is once again at the top while D.C.-based George Washington University Law School , now No. 3, switched places with the Fordham University School of Law in New York City, which claimed second place.

Previously ranked at No. 3 and No. 6 respectively, the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School and Stanford Graduate School of Business took the top spot in this year's full-time MBA program rankings . Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management and the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business moved down from their previous places in the top two to tie at No. 3.

While the top 10 mostly consists of the same schools as last year, both the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley and the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business joined those ranks this year. UC Berkeley rose from a three-way tie at No. 11 to a three-way tie at No. 7, while UVA moved up four spots from No. 14 to a tie at No. 10.

Farther down the full-time MBA rankings, there were some big changes. For example, Pitt's Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business soared 39 spots from a tie at No. 86 to a tie at No. 47.

Meanwhile, the very top of the part-time MBA rankings looks similar to last year, with the same schools in the top 5: UChicago, UC Berkeley, Northwestern, NYU's Leonard N. Stern School of Business and the Anderson School of Management at the University of California—Los Angeles. But UChicago took the No. 1 spot from UC Berkeley this year.

Moving up from No. 2, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing in Maryland tied with Emory University's Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing in Georgia to claim the top spot in this year's nursing master's program rankings. Duke University School of Nursing in North Carolina climbed up by one to claim the third spot.

Johns Hopkins ranked No. 1, as it did last year, in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program rankings. George Mason University School of Nursing in Virginia – which reported more graduates and resources per faculty – soared from a four-way tie at No. 39 to take the No. 2 spot. Duke tied with the University of Washington School of Nursing to round out the top three.

Duke also ranked No. 1 in all of the ranked nursing master's nursing practice specialties, including administration, family, both acute and primary care adult gerontology, and mental health.

Once again, Teachers College, Columbia University in New York was No. 1 in the graduate education schools rankings. This year, however, it tied with the University of Wisconsin—Madison School of Education , which climbed two spots.

The University of Michigan—Ann Arbor's School of Education dropped from the top position to tie with the UCLA School of Education and Information Studies at No. 3. UCLA was previously tied at No. 7.

U.S. News also ranks nine education specialties, with the College of Education at Michigan State University claiming the top spot in the following categories: curriculum and instruction, educational administration, elementary teacher education, higher education administration and secondary teacher education.

Searching for a grad school of education? Access our complete rankings of Best Graduate Schools.

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Doctoral Degree in Computer Science

During the first two years of the program, you’ll gain the foundation of knowledge that will allow you to become an expert researcher in computer science, primarily by

Mastering a body of graduate material, achieved by passing 96 university units worth of graduate courses (equivalent to eight full-time courses).

Learning how to organize and begin to carry out original research, achieved by participating in directed research.

Time Commitment:

Financial Information:

Graduate Tuition: https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/tuition/graduate/scs.html

Student Fees: https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/tuition/fees/index.html

Carnegie Mellon Graduate Student Financial Aid: https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/financial-aid/graduate/index.html

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COMMENTS

Best Computer Science Programs
Austin, TX. #8 in Computer Science (tie) Save. 4.5. Find the best graduate computer science program to fit your goals using the U.S. News rankings. Narrow your search using our on-page tools here.
Top 10 Best PhD in Computer Science Programs
Stanford University. PhD in Computer Science. Stanford University is one of the most famous research institutions in the world, and its Computer Science programs have been ranked second in the USA. This PhD program involves a research rotation scheme where students participate in different research groups during the first year.
Top Computer Science Ph.D. Programs
BLS data indicates a median salary of $122,840 for computer and information research scientists, along with a projected growth rate of 15% from 2019-2029. A graduate with a Ph.D. in computer science earns a higher salary than those who only have master's or bachelor's degrees.
PhD Admissions
The Computer Science Department PhD program is a top-ranked research-oriented program, typically completed in 5-6 years. There are very few course requirements and the emphasis is on preparation for a career in Computer Science research. Eligibility. To be eligible for admission in a Stanford graduate program, applicants must meet: Degree level ...
PhD in Computer Science
The doctor of philosophy in computer science program at Northwestern University primarily prepares students to become expert independent researchers. PhD students conduct original transformational research in extant and emerging computer science topics. Students work alongside top researchers to advance the core CS fields from Theory to AI and ...
PhD Programs in Computer Science
4-5 years. 72-90 credits. Computer science plays a role in virtually every field of industry. For this reason, Ph.D. programs are diverse, and many students pursue interdisciplinary degrees. Students wishing to pursue a Ph.D. in computer science generally take 4-5 years to complete the degree, which usually requires 72-90 credits.
Ph.D. in Computer Science
Carnegie Mellon's Ph.D. in Computer Science is, above all, a research degree. When the faculty award a Ph.D., they certify that the student has a broad foundation and awareness of core concepts in computer science, has advanced the field by performing significant original research and has reported that work in a scholarly fashion. When you ...
Computer Science
In the Computer Science program, you will learn both the fundamentals of computation and computation's interaction with the world. Computer Science is an area of study within the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Prospective students apply through Harvard Griffin GSAS; in the online application, select ...
Computer Science Ph.D. Program
The computer science Ph.D. program complies with the requirements of the Cornell Graduate School, which include requirements on residency, minimum grades, examinations, and dissertation. The Department also administers a very small 2-year Master of Science program (with thesis). Students in this program serve as teaching assistants and receive ...
Academics
The PhD degree is intended primarily for students who desire a career in research, advanced development, or teaching. A broad Computer Science, Engineering, Science background, intensive study, and research experience in a specialized area are the necessary requisites. The degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is conferred on candidates who have ...
Best PhDs in Computer Science
Best Universities for Computer Science PhDs: Where to Get a PhD in Computer Science. The best universities for computer science PhDs are Arizona State University, Boston University, Harvard University, Duke University, and Carnegie Mellon University. Each of these universities will help you advance your research and eventually get you a job in ...
PhD Program Admissions
We're thrilled that you are interested in our PhD program in computer science! This page provides an overview of the application process, some guidelines, and answers to specific questions. Please check our FAQ before emailing [email protected] with any questions not answered here. Our program accepts a large number of applicants each ...
Brown CS: Our PhD Program
Our PhD Program. Working with faculty who are leaders in the field, our PhD students conduct research with real-world impact. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values for Brown CS, and we've integrated societal and ethical issues across our graduate and undergraduate curricula. Our new faculty positions focus on both core computer ...
Ph.D. in Computer Science
Ph.D. Program Requirements. The PhD degree requires 72 graduate-level credits, including: at least 24 credits of graded graduate-level coursework (of which up to 18 can be transfer credit— see below), containing. no 5000-level CS courses. at least 6 credits of graded graduate-level coursework in excess of that required for the Master's ...
PhD Program
Find Your Passion for Research Duke Computer Science gives incoming students an opportunity to investigate a range of topics, research problems, and research groups before committing to an advisor in the first year. Funding from the department and Duke makes it possible to attend group meetings, seminars, classes and colloquia. Students may work on multiple problems simultaneously while ...
Top Computer Science Universities in United States
China. France. Germany. India. Italy. Japan. Netherlands. See the US News rankings for Computer Science among the top universities in United States. Compare the academic programs at the world's ...
QS World University Rankings for Computer Science and Information
Discover which universities around the world are the best for Computer Science and Information Systems with the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023. Study Computer Science and Information Systems in the US, UK, Europe, Asia, Canada and other locations. Register for free site membership to access direct university comparisons and more.
PhD in Computer Science
The Ph.D. in Computer Science aims to build the next generation of scholars in computer science research. At GW, doctoral students can expect to work closely with a faculty advisor in their chosen research area to create a curriculum plan and guidance for the doctoral dissertation.
PhD in Computer Science : Graduate School : UMass Amherst
PhD in Computer Science. Ranked among the top 25 programs in the United States, our PhD program features world-renowned faculty, interdisciplinary research, and a spirit of collaboration. Master of Science/Doctor of Philosophy (MS/PhD) Most computer science graduate students are admitted into the MS/PhD track.
Doctor of Philosophy Degree
Doctor of Philosophy Degree. The purpose of the Doctor of Philosophy program in computer science is to prepare students for research and teaching positions in universities and colleges, and for research and leadership positions in industry and government. The primary aim of the program is to train students in the methods of scientific inquiry ...
PhD in Computer Science (2024 Entry)
The PhD in Computer Science offers exciting opportunities to do cutting-edge research in an internationally renowned environment. The results of the 2021 REF rank Warwick Computer Science 4th out of 90 UK Computer Science departments. This cements our position as one of the top Computer Science departments in the UK, a position we have held for some time under different assessment methodologies.
Graduate Computer Science Programs Climb in Latest National Rankings
The score places Georgia Tech in a three-way tie for No. 7 with the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Washington. The rankings are "based solely on the results of surveys sent to academic officials in fall 2023 and early 2024 in computer science," according to U.S. News and World Report.
U.S. News Ranks UT Austin Computer Science Among Best in Graduate
The 2024-2025 rankings tout computer science at The University of Texas at Austin as among the seven best nationally. The UT Computer Science graduate program continues to be recognized as a top 10 program in the nation, as well as among the top 5 public schools and the best in Texas, according to U.S. News & World Report's partial release of its most recent "Best Graduate Schools ...
Where To Earn A Ph.D. In Data Science Online In 2024
Based in San Diego, California, National University (NU) offers a variety of online programs, including a Ph.D. in data science. NU's program requires 60 credits and takes an estimated 40 months ...
U.S. News Releases 2024 Best Graduate Programs Rankings
Best Nursing Schools. Moving up from No. 2, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing in Maryland tied with Emory University's Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing in Georgia to claim the top ...
Doctoral Degree in Computer Science
Carnegie Mellon's Ph.D. in Computer Science is, above all, a research degree. When the faculty award a Ph.D., they certify that the student has a broad foundation and awareness of core concepts in computer science, has advanced the field by performing significant original research and has reported that work in a scholarly fashion. When you ...
PhD in Computer Science: Admission, Syllabus, Topics, Colleges, Salary
The fee for PhD in Computer Science across the course ranges from INR 10,000 to INR 2.75 Lacs across various PhD computer science colleges in India. The variation in the fee is based on the location and type of universities such as private, deemed, or government. Table of Contents. PhD in Computer Science Quick Facts.

Top 10 Best PhD in Computer Science Programs

Best Computer Science PhD Programs and Universities

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Carnegie Mellon University, School of Computer Sciences

Harvard University, Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

Duke University, The Graduate School

The University of California Berkeley, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences (EECS)

California Institute of Technology, Computing & Mathematical Sciences Department

Cornell University, Bowers College of Computing and Information Science

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, The Grainger College of Engineering

Princeton University, The Graduate School

What Do I Need to Get a PhD in Computer Science?

What to Consider When Choosing a Computer Science PhD Program

Why Get a Doctor of Computer Science Degree?

PhD in Computer Science: Key Facts

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Computer Science?

What Skills Do You Gain from Doing a PhD in Computer Science?

Key Takeaways

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Get a PhD in Computer Science?

Is a PhD in Computer Science Worth It?

What Does a PhD in Computer Science Do?

What Can I Do with a PhD in Computer Science?

Which Subject is Best for a PhD in Computer Science?

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