phd computer science admission requirements

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The Graduate Field of Computer Science seeks to produce well-rounded researchers who have demonstrated both breadth in computer science and depth in specific areas of concentration. Although the program is designed to be flexible, students in the CS Ph.D. program must complete several requirements imposed both by the Field and by the Cornell Graduate School:

Field Requirements

• competency requirement
• breadth requirement
• project requirement
• teaching requirement

Graduate School Requirements

• special committee
• minor requirement

Each of these requirements is described in some detail below, followed by a FAQ that answers some of the most common student questions. Because no document can hope to cover all the nuances, students who have questions or concerns should consult their advisor and the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS).

The Field requirements were most recently updated in Fall 2018. Students matriculating in Fall 2018 or later must fulfill the new requirements. Students who matriculated into the Ph.D. program earlier may choose to fulfill either the new requirements or the previous requirements.

The Competency Requirement

The Field believes that knowledge of Computer Science at the undergraduate level is an indispensible foundation for doctoral study in CS. Ph.D. candidates are expected to demonstrate competency at the high undergraduate level in four areas of computer science: Artificial Intelligence, Programming Languages, Systems, and Theory. This requirement can be discharged in one of three ways:

• by demonstrating competency through one's prior coursework;
• by taking a course for grade credit (acceptable courses are listed below, subject to change);
• by taking the final exam in one of these courses, if permitted by the instructor.

Students who have earned a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science are automatically deemed to have satisfied the competency requirement in all four areas. Students with no prior degree in CS may still be exempted from one or more of the four competency requirements based on their prior coursework. Requests for such exemptions are to be accompanied by documentation concerning the relevant prior coursework (course website, detailed syllabus, list of assignments when possible) and will be judged on a case-by-case basis by the DGS in consultation with the faculty in the relevant area.

Each area is required to offer students at least one of option 2 or 3. Whichever method is chosen, the requirement must be fulfilled with acceptable performance, as judged by the Field. For option 1, acceptable generally means with a grade of B+ or higher for graduate courses, A- or higher for 4xxx-5xxx courses.

The acceptable courses are:

• Artificial Intelligence: CS 4700/5700, CS 4780/5780 
• Programming Languages: CS 4110/5110, CS 4120/5120, or CS 6110
• Systems: CS 4410/5410, CS 6410, or 6412
• Theory: CS 4820/5820 or CS 6820

This requirement must be fulfilled by the time of the A exam.

The Breadth Requirement

Ph.D. students must take at least five 5000/6000-level courses for grade credit. Note that only certain 5000 level courses count. These courses must cover at least three different CS areas and all three CS research styles. The requirement is intended to expose students both to the research problems and techniques associated with different research areas, and also to the different value systems of various computer science research styles that differ in how they evaluate and validate research results.

Courses taken to satisfy the competency requirement can be used to count towards the breadth requirement. Courses at the 7000 level do not count, nor do courses from other fields (however, see Exceptions below).

The areas are as follows:

• Algorithms and theory of computation , including algorithms, complexity theory, cryptography, logical and type-theoretic foundations of computer science.
• Artificial intelligence , including robotics, computer vision, natural language processing, information organization and retrieval, and machine learning.
• Systems , including concurrency, parallel computing, networks, distributed computing, and data management.
• Programming languages and methodology , including applied logic, automated reasoning, and compilers.
• Scientific computing and applications , including graphics and computational biology.

The research styles are the following:

• Theoretical . The theoretical research style is characterized by constructing formal models of computation that are validated primarily by mathematical proof.
• Systems . The systems research style focuses on how to improve computing platforms by making them faster, more reliable, more secure, etc. Validation is primarily empirical or experiential.
• Applied . The applied research style develops new methods for using computers to solve problems of interest. Validation is achieved primarily by demonstrating empirically that these methods are effective for the problem.

The following table summarizes the breadth requirement. It represents the classification of CS graduate courses into areas and research styles. Students must take five 5000/6000-level courses, covering at least three rows of this table and all three columns.

Please find course listing information here:

http://https://www.cs.cornell.edu/courseinfo/listofcscourses

*Offerings of 5820 in Spring 2021 or earlier, and 5830, 5850, 5740(Ith), and 5650(Ith) in Spring 2022 or earlier, are counted under older rules.

As with the competency requirement, the breadth requirement must be fulfilled with acceptable performance, as judged by the Field. A grade of B or better is generally acceptable.

The list of courses that satisfy the area and research style requirements of the breadth requirement are subject to change as faculty develops new courses.

The Project Requirement

Ph.D. students are required to satisfy the project requirement by writing a significant piece of software. One way to satisfy the project requirement is by taking a course with a significant coding component and having the instructor for the course certify that the project satisfied the project requirement. The student is typically expected to get a grade of B- or better in the course. The project requirement can also be satisfied by projects outside of classes, for example, as part of independent research, your thesis research, or as part of a summer job. In these cases, the chair of your special committee needs to certify that you satisfied the project requirement.  *Note external projecs require a deliverable or artifact that can be inspected by your Chair of your special committee.

The Teaching Requirement

Ph.D. students must serve as a teaching assistant for at least two semesters or teach a course for at least one semester. Contact with students is valuable both as preparation for a possible academic career and for the experience in communicating ideas to groups, which is important in any setting, academic or otherwise.

We recognize that the Field requirements as stated above may not be universally appropriate, especially in nontraditional areas such as computational biology that may require significant coursework outside of computer science. In such exceptional cases, students are encouraged to formulate an alternative course of study in consultation with the special committee and to present a proposal to the Field for approval.

As a Ph.D. student, you must be in residence for at least six semesters, or four if you already hold a Master's degree at the time of enrollment. The advisor or DGS awards one residence unit after the satisfactory completion of each semester of full-time study. Fractional units may be awarded for unsatisfactory progress.

The Special Committee

Before the start of your fourth semester, you must form a special committee. The special committee consists of a chair and two or more minor members.

When you specify the members of your committee, you must specify the areas of concentration they represent. These must be areas officially recognized by the Graduate School associated with the committee member's field. The Field of Computer Science has five official areas of concentration, listed here along with their associated subareas:

• operating systems
• fault tolerance
• distributed systems
• database systems
• digital libraries
• machine architecture
• parallel computing

Theory of Computation

• complexity theory
• cryptography
• human-computer interaction
• information retrieval
• natural language processing
• computer vision
• machine learning
• knowledge representation and reasoning

Programming Languages and Logics

• programming methodology
• programming environments
• program logic and verification
• automated reasoning
• type theory and program analysis
• programming language design

Scientific Computing and Applications

• computer graphics
• computational biology and bioinformatics
• scientific computing

The chair of your special committee represents your major area of concentration and is normally your thesis advisor. The chair can be any member of the Field of Computer Science. The Computer Science area is only for graduate students in other fields who wish to minor in Computer Science. It may not be specified as either a major or minor area of concentration for Ph.D. students in CS.

The two minor members of your special committee represent your minor subjects (see The Minor Requirement below).

While it suffices to have only three people on your special committee, there are many advantages to having more. Your committee members can often provide useful advice. Being on your committee also means they are more likely to know your work better, which helps if you want them to write letters of reference for you. Note that only three special committee members need to be from Cornell. The rest can be from other institutions or from industry.

The Minor Requirement

The minor requirement is a Graduate School requirement, not a CS Field requirement. All Ph.D. students at Cornell must have two minors. For Ph.D. students in Computer Science, the Field requires one of these to be external to Computer Science and one to be internal.

The external minor must be in a field other than CS. The minor requirements are up to the minor field. Related fields such as Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, Cognitive Science or Electrical and Computer Engineering are common choices. However, any minor field is acceptable. When you choose your minor field, you must also choose an area of concentration in that field and minor advisor who is a member of that field. The external minor advisor serves on your special committee and will work with you in setting your minor requirements. Typically, this involves knowledge of 3-4 graduate courses in the field, but expectations can vary depending upon the field. Before settling on a minor field, a student should find out about that field's requirements.

There are no additional requirements for the internal minor, except that the minor area of concentration must be different from the major area of concentration.

The A exam (Admission to Candidacy Exam) is an oral exam. It is a final test of your preparedness for undertaking thesis research. The content and coverage of the A exam is determined by the special committee and discussed with the student beforehand. Often, the student at an A-exam will describe the problem to be attacked in the thesis and give some preliminary research results. But an A-exam might instead have the student present an in-depth survey of a research area. Occasionally the A-exam serves as an opportunity to present completed research that is unrelated to the thesis topic. Some committees expect the student to prepare a written document prior to the exam, which might cover content that will be discussed at the exam or complement that content.

Students normally aim to take the A exam in their third year of graduate study. Students are required to have completed the competency requirement and to have at least two units of residency prior to the A exam. In addition, students must attempt the A exam before beginning their seventh semester of study. (More details of the university's requirements can be found in Cornell's Guide to Graduate's Study.) Although students have normally made substantial progress towards completing the breadth requirement before taking their A exam, it is not necessary to have completed this requirement before the A exam. (Note that your minor advisor may require you to have taken some courses in your minor before your A exam; you should check with them.)

The B exam is your thesis defense. It is strongly recommended that a draft of your thesis be provided to your committee three to four weeks prior to the B exam. In most cases, it should require only minor editing after the exam. However, during a B exam, the committee may ask for revisions, in which case it is possible that the student will pass the B exam but not yet have full approval of the thesis itself. The Ph.D. degree is awarded after you have passed the B exam and filed an approved dissertation with the University, and completed all the other requirements above. The University requires a minimum of two units of residency between the A exam and the B exam. Most students complete their B exam within four to six years after their arrival at Cornell.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the more common questions and concerns that students have. Again, you are encouraged to consult with your advisor or the Director of Graduate Studies if you have concerns not covered here.

What should I do over the summer?

There are lots of opportunities. Some popular options include doing research with a faculty member, often your advisor or potential advisor (this is particularly appropriate as you get further along in the program), teaching a course, or doing a summer internship. We believe that it is in your interest to spend one or more summers as an intern in an industry research lab or at some other University. Doing so exposes you to other perspectives on the field and to the priorities driving the industry; it can really help later when you enter the job market. We'll suggest many options and can help you find a good match to your interests. Your advisor may also have contacts that would lead to interesting internship opportunities. For foreign students, internships should satisfy the requirements for practical training under a student visa, hence no special visa approvals should be required. Most students spend at least one or two summers as interns, usually during their first three years at Cornell.

What happens at the annual Field meetings?

The Field of Computer Science meets annually to review each student's progress. The DGS summarizes progress towards requirements, presents a summary of courses taken and grades received, and indicates whether the student has taken or is scheduled to take an A exam. For students who have been at Cornell for a few semesters, the emphasis of the discussion is on progress toward identifying a research topic, forming a special committee, and launching a research program that will lead to a dissertation. Normally, the student's current advisor will briefly describe the student's recent progress.

The goal of this meeting is to understand how we can best help the students establish themselves as researchers, publish their work, and graduate within the normal time period. If a consensus emerges that a particular student may not be heading toward successful completion of the degree program, the field will discuss appropriate action, which always depends on the specific situation. While students are occasionally asked to leave the program, this happens very rarely. In any case, no student is ever asked to leave the program without first being given a warning and time to correct the situation, except in the case of serious violations of the University code of conduct.

I took some courses as an undergraduate prior to coming to Cornell that appear to be identical to the ones listed under the competency requirement. Can I get out of those parts of the requirement?

Yes, possibly. Requests for such exemptions are to be accompanied by documentation concerning the relevant prior coursework (course website, detailed syllabus, list of assignments when possible) and will be judged on a case-by-case basis by the DGS in consultation with the faculty in the relevant area.

I was enrolled as a Ph.D. student at another institution for two years before transferring to the Ph.D. program at Cornell. I took several graduate courses as part of my studies. Can I count these towards my requirements here?

Maybe. You should negotiate the transfer of credit with the DGS and your advisor, who will consult with relevant faculty to decide whether it is appropriate to treat the prior coursework as a substitute for Cornell Ph.D. requirements.

How do I create a special committee?

Most students enter Cornell with a good idea of what area they want to specialize in. Those who do not still have strong areas of interest. By reading recent research papers, faculty web pages, and course descriptions, you should pick courses taught by faculty members you might enjoy working with. Focus on areas for which you believe you have talent, good ideas, or interest. Being a TA for a faculty member with whom you may want to work is often a good idea, especially if the course is in the general area of your interests and talents.

Faculty members are generally available to talk to graduate students about potential research topics in their area, and most students will talk to a few before joining a research group. It is common for a faculty member to suggest working with the student for a period of time, perhaps a semester, before considering the relationship "official". Some students will approach a potential advisor soon after arriving on campus, but others may take some time to shop around. All students should try to identify an advisor by the end of their first year at Cornell.

If your interests change over time, or if things just are not working out, you or your committee chair (advisor) may decide to reconstitute your committee. This is not considered a bad thing and will not leave a blot on your record. All field members have an interest in seeing our students do the best and most innovative work they are capable of, and if this means changing advisors or topics, so be it.

Do I need to complete my graduate coursework prior to taking the A exam?

Most students who take an A exam will have satisfied the majority of their field requirements, and many will have completed their minor. (For some minor fields, this is a requirement; read the rules published by the minor field that you select!) The special committee will typically let you schedule the A exam prior to the completion of your coursework.

What is the rationale for having an external minor requirement? Some fields at Cornell don't require that.

The competency and breadth requirements relate to the CS field itself, but we want our students to be scholars familiar with a world beyond their area in CS. The minor requirement reflects that philosophy. Note that the CS Field accepts any proposed minor, even one completely unrelated to the student's program of study.

How do I report on my progress towards satisfying the requirements?

This is not your problem. The graduate office maintains a file on each student which includes a checklist for the various requirements. Each year, prior to the annual review of student progress, the graduate office will update these checklists. Of course, if you think that your record is missing pertinent information (e.g., if you are told you need to take a course that you have already taken), you should let us know.

I am primarily interested in [vision/graphics/HCI/security/architecture] and was disappointed to see that the competency requirement emphasizes other areas. Why am I being penalized, in the sense that a theory, systems or languages student would have fewer requirements than I do?

The competency requirements reflect the field's consensus that the corresponding courses cover a core set of concepts and material with which any computer scientist needs to be familiar and comfortable, simply to be able to participate in normal dialogue with other computer scientists. We do not view this as a "penalty" on people who work outside these core areas, but rather as a type of common background that provides a context for interacting with colleagues.

The requirements are designed to be flexible. Our course requirements work out to fewer than one per semester for an average student. Obviously, some courses will prove to be more interesting or more directly relevant than others, but our hope is that many students will discover new areas of interest by taking courses outside of a narrow research focus.

In any case, there is the Exceptions clause; if you can make a strong case that the requirements as we have stated them will inhibit your progress in research in your chosen area of study, and if you are able to formulate a good-faith alternative program in consultation with your advisor, then the Field will be happy to entertain a proposal.

Why are there requirements in [AI/programming languages/theory...] and not in [graphics/databases/...]

We recognize that computer science is evolving rapidly. Areas that were considered central ten years ago may be more peripheral now. While the areas for the competency requirement represent the faculty's consensus of material that every computer scientist should know, this is a topic we frequently revisit.

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Ph.d. application requirements.

Email the computer science graduate admissions team at  [email protected]  for  individual support  as you navigate the application process.

Sign up for a Virtual Visit  - these sessions are offered for prospective doctoral students every Wednesday at 10:00 AM U.S. Central Time. These small group sessions include information about Iowa State University and the Department of Computer Science, academic requirements, career placement, assistantships and internships, and the application process. Please use this  link  to sign up for a virtual visit.

Fall 2025 Application Process

Click  here  to access the online application system.

Step 1 – create your account and provide your personal details (e.g., name, contact information, and address).

Step 2 – select your academic area of interest (e.g., PhD Computer Science) and enter your academic history, exam test scores, and recommender information. Submit your application.

• Research Interests and Specific Faculty:  When specifying your Academic Area of interest, please list your research interest and the names of  at least three faculty  who you are interested in working with (check here for faculty names by research area). This will help us match you with a major professor. Due to high demand for AI and ML, you will have more opportunities for admission if you list other areas.
• Delayed Payment of PhD Application Fee:  The PhD application fee ($65 US Domestic; $100 International) for admitted students will be placed on the first university bill (U-Bill) after enrolling in classes. All other PhD applicants (those who are not admitted and those who do not accept the admission offer) are not required to pay an application fee.

Step 3 – return to your application to upload the required documents. When you return to your account, click on the “View my Application(s)” button to access the action items for your application. Clicking on the “Manage” button next to each action item will open a menu where you can provide the required information. Admissions will send you an email if there is an issue with any documentation. The action item status will also change to “Returned.” Please contact us if you have any questions about the required documentation. We will gladly assist you.

Step 4  – The Computer Science Graduate Admissions Committee will review applications and recommend applicants for admission, waitlist, or denial. Applicants recommended for admission will begin the process of selecting a major professor. A major professor match must be made before an admission offer can be made. Additional action item tasks (e.g., provide official English language proficiency test scores) will be added to the application portal to complete the admissions process.

Click here for instructions for managing your application documents and recommenders.

Required Documents:

• Current Resume/CV
• Unofficial transcripts from ALL universities/colleges attended – Please include the original language and an English translation . Consolidated transcripts are allowed if they show all tests and exams, including retakes. Please include the grading scale for your university/college. World Education Services (WES) and Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) evaluations of international transcripts are accepted starting with Fall 2024 applications.   Please also upload your degree statement with your transcripts if you have graduated.
• Unofficial degree statement(s) – This isn’t required if your degree is still in progress. Please include a copy of your degree statement with your transcripts.
• (3) Letters of Recommendation (LOR) – the application system will automatically send a recommendation request to the email address you provide for each recommender. Please reach out to  [email protected]  with any issues related to the letters of recommendation.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) – guidance for writing the SOP can be found  here .
• Type your GRE scores into the online application system.
• Upload a PDF copy of your GRE test taker report, available to you in your ETS account.
• If selected for admission, send your official GRE scores to Iowa State University. Our institution code is 6306.

Additional required documents for international applicants:

• Type your scores into the online application system.
• Upload a PDF copy of your test taker report.
• If selected for admission, send your official scores to Iowa State University.
• Passport/immigration card - you can wait to upload this until you receive the admission decision.
• Financial Support Documents - you can wait to upload this until you receive the admission decision. PhD applicants are not required to submit financial documentation unless traveling with dependents. If traveling with dependents, the amount to show can be found here . The form at this link may be helpful in planning your financial documents.

Successful PhD Application Profile

In general, successful Ph.D. applicants for Spring 2024 had a combine GRE score of 310 or higher. They scored within the 90th percentile (164) on the quantitative portion of the GRE, and they also did fairly well on the verbal portion of the exam, although not as high. Additionally, they had a USA GPA comparable to an "A" average, or 3.67 out of a possible 4.00, and they ranked in the top quartile (25%) of their graduating class. Typically, they received "A" and "B+" USA equivalent grades in their core COM S and MATH studies. They also had prior COM S research experience and a significant background in computer science or data science, such as Algorithms, Theory of Computation, Programming experience, Software Engineering, AI, Systems or Networking. In many cases, they had papers published in high quality journals.

The Admissions Committee typically looks for applicants with preparatory coursework and/or professional experience in these five areas:

• Programming (e.g., COM S 227/228 Java Programming)
• Algorithms (e.g., COM S 311 Algorithm Design and Analysis)
• Math/theory for CS (e.g., COM S 230 Discrete Mathematics and COM S 331 Computer Theory)
• Databases and Operating Systems (e.g., COM S 363 Intro to DB Mgmt Systems and COM S 352 Intro to OS)
• Statistics (e.g., STAT 201)

Descriptions for the above courses can be found on the university website ( https://catalog.iastate.edu/azcourses/com_s/ ). Students missing some of the pre-requisites may be conditionally admitted with the requirement to take COM S 311 and COM S 331 during their first year.

Spring 2025 Doctoral Application Deadlines

We offer Fall or Spring entry; there is no Summer entry. International applicants requiring a new visa and Ph.D. applicants interested in competitive scholarships/grants are encouraged to apply earlier.

• Ph.D. applications are closed for Spring 2025.
• Ph.D. admission decisions will be communicated on a rolling basis starting  September 17, 2024.
• Waitlisted applicants will receive a final decision by  October 1, 2024.
• Ph.D. funding offers are the same for anytime of admission.

Fall 2025 Doctoral Application Deadlines

• Ph.D. applications will open on September 1, 2024  and close on  December 15, 2024.
• Ph.D. applicants have until January 15, 2025 , to complete their applications (e.g., submit transcripts, SOPs, and LORs).
• Ph.D. admission decisions will be communicated on a rolling basis starting February 15, 2025.
• Waitlisted applicants will receive a final decision by March 10, 2025.

Financial Support

Ph.D. applicants selected for admission will receive a two academic year (fall and spring) teaching assistantship (TA). This includes a monthly stipend, 100% tuition scholarship, and free health insurance. Our Ph.D. students are usually funded by their major professors as research assistants (RA) during years 3, 4 and 5 and during the summers. Summer internships are highly available if the student's major professor does not have RA funding available. RA funding is a discussion that Ph.D. students can have with major professors once admitted; RA funding can be obtained prior to starting the first year.

Email forwarding for @cs.stanford.edu is changing. Updates and details here .

PhD | Program Requirements

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On average, the program is completed in five to six years, depending on the student’s research and progress. First-year students have the opportunity to rotate in three different labs before selecting their advisor. 

The Computer Science Department also believes that teaching is an integral and important part of graduate-level education in Computer Science. In pursuing the PhD degree, students have clear and defined milestones that help guide them to the successful completion of their dissertation and oral defense. This includes a cumulative list of requirements to be completed in order for students to confer their PhD degree in Computer Science.

For any questions related to CS PhD milestone requirements, please email  [email protected] . 

Form/s should be submitted as a PDF and emailed to  [email protected] .  Jay Subramanian, Director of Graduation Admissions and PhD Program, approves all forms on behalf of the Department chair. The CS PhD Student Services Team will collect her signature after you submit your form/s.

• CS300 Seminar       
• First-Year Research Rotation Program       
• Courses       
• Foundation & Breadth Requirements       
• Candidacy Requirement       
• Qualifying Examination       
• Teaching Requirements       
• Reading Committee       

Thesis Proposal       

Note : A student may go to TGR status after all the Ph.D. requirements above have been completed, and just their orals and dissertation submission remain, see Special Registration Statuses page.

• University Oral Examination       
• Dissertation

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PhD Program Admissions

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.

• University of Connecticut

College of Engineering

School of computing.

• Ph.D. Admissions

Admission to the Ph.D. program in Computer Science and Engineering is normally open only to those students possessing an M.S. in Computer Science, Computer Science and Engineering, or Computer Engineering. Students with no previous graduate degree can be considered for direct admission into the Ph.D. program (bypassing the M.S.) if they have exceptional baccalaureate records.

Admission of UCONN Master’s students. Students in the M.S. program in Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Connecticut who plan on applying for the Ph.D. program are strongly advised to complete a Plan A Master’s program: the thesis can provide direct evidence of preparedness for independent study and research activity.

Admission of students with master’s degrees in other areas. The typical path for students with a master’s degree in an area other than Computer Science, Computer Science and Engineering, or Computer Engineering is initial application to the M.S. program. In certain cases, it may be possible to transition from the M.S. program to the Ph.D. program prior to completion of the M.S. In general, students with such non-traditional backgrounds are encouraged to discuss their plans with the Director of Graduate Studies.

Application deadline:

• For full consideration, applications must arrive by January 1.

Testing; institution and department codes. The GRE is not explicitly required for Ph.D. applicants; however, it may be submitted to demonstrate academic preparation. For the GRE : UConn’s institution code is: 3915. The department code is: 0402. For the TOEFL : UConn’s institution code is: 3915. The department code is: 78. The country code is: 592.

Detailed Admission Requirements

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree, as discussed above.
• Three letters of recommendation . The applicant must submit three letters of recommendation supporting the application. A strong letter should speak to specific strengths and experiences, and support preparedness for research.
• A personal statement , describing the applicant’s aspirations for graduate study and relevant biographical background.
• GRE test scores are not required, but may support your application . Applicants may submit scores for the General Test portion of the Graduate Record Exam (GRE).

A successful Ph.D. application must address the ability to carry out independent study and self-directed research. This should be meaningfully addressed in the personal letter; at least one of the required letters of recommendation should speak to these skills.

For further details, including limits on course and credit transfer, the Ph.D. Program Description in the Graduate Catalog .

For general inquiries concerning our graduate programs, contact Professor Alexander Russell, Director of Graduate Programs at [email protected]

• Ph.D. Program Requirements
• Graduate Fellowships and Assistantships
• Master of Science (MS)
• Master of Engineering (MENG)
• Certificate Programs
• Prospective Students
• Student Awards
• Graduate Plans of Study and Forms

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Office Contact

School of Computing 371 Fairfield Way, Unit 4155 University of Connecticut Storrs, CT 06269-4155 Phone: (860) 486-3719 Fax: (860) 486-4817

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Ph.D. in Computer Science

Please visit the UVA Graduate Record webpage for Ph.D. degree requirements. 

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 .

The Ohio State University

• BuckeyeLink
• Search Ohio State

Doctor of Philosophy Program

.cls-1{fill:#a91e22;}.cls-2{fill:#c2c2c2;} double-arrow program for the doctor of philosophy degree in cse.

The Doctoral degree is awarded for superior academic and research performance. Consequently, only students who have demonstrated outstanding scholastic ability and research potential will be admitted to the academic and research program leading to the Doctorate. The program of study for the Ph.D. is to be developed by the student in close consultation with his/her academic advisor. Students are encouraged to work out their plan of study as soon as possible so that all requirements may be met.

• Program Requirements: PhD Major/Minor

.cls-1{fill:#a91e22;}.cls-2{fill:#c2c2c2;} double-arrow Foreward

This brochure, together with the Graduate School Handbook, contains a complete description of requirements and procedures for the Ph.D. degree in Computer Science and Engineering (CSE). These requirements and the procedures for obtaining the degree are determined in part by the Graduate School, and in part by the Department. Petitions for exception to these requirements should be channeled through the departmental Graduate Studies Committee.

The material in this brochure is oriented primarily for students pursuing the Ph.D. program. Such students must be regular students, admitted to the CSE Department, and conform to Graduate School regulations; special students and students enrolled in Continuing Education must first remove any restrictions. Removal of restrictions is regulated by the Graduate School and the Departmental Graduate Studies Committee.

These procedures and requirements are subject to revision. Applicants should consult material periodically issued by the Graduate School and the Department, their advisor, or the Chair of the Graduate Studies Committee for any changes or interpretation of policy. The Graduate School also maintains a counseling office for students enrolled in Ph.D. Programs.

Program for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in CSE

Each student entering the graduate program in Computer Science and Engineering is initially assigned a tentative academic advisor. Students' degree programs and all courses taken by students must be approved by their academic advisors. Students should consult their advisors as soon as possible after arriving on campus, and periodically thereafter until, upon developing a specific specialty interest, the student chooses a permanent advisor in that specialty area. This choice should be made as soon as practical.

The assignment of students to research advisors is performed by mutual agreement of the student and faculty member. The intent of this explicit agreement is to make students aware of the importance of early interactions with faculty in topic areas of mutual interest. Students are free to change their advisors when mutual research interests change. A "Change of Advisor" form is available through the Electronic Signature application called Docusign. The process begins by clicking on the following link which will send you an email and guide you in filling out the information needed: Change of Advisor Form .

The Graduate School rules require that advisors for students in the Ph.D. program be Category P Graduate Faculty members, but it is permissible to have a Category M Graduate Faculty member as a co-advisor. The co-advisor may be the functioning advisor. In such cases, a Category P person should be included as an integral member of the research team early in the student's research, so there is a meaningful collaboration involving the Category M functioning advisor and the Category P advisor. The Graduate School requires that the Category P advisor sign the examination and thesis approval forms.

The requirements for a Doctoral degree in Computer Science and Engineering are determined in part by general Graduate School requirements for a Ph.D. degree, and in part by specific requirements stipulated by the department. The student should refer to the Graduate School Handbook for residency requirements, regulations concerning transfer of credit from other institutions, and for credit-hour requirements stipulated by the Graduate School.

Prior to entering the first stage of study toward the Doctoral degree, a student has to successfully complete the Ph.D qualifying process (see  Section 3 ) as well as take CSE6891 (1 crhr S/U graded) during their first Autumn term.

During the first stage of Ph.D. study, the student is required to undertake a program of study in a major area and two minor areas, and to formulate a dissertation proposal. At least 10 cr-hrs of coursework in the major area and 6 cr-hrs in each of the minor areas are required. This coursework cannot include graduate core classes that were used for the qualifying process. All of the 10 credits towards the major and at least 5 credits for each minor need to be from graded graduate classes. The student's research advisor serves as the advisor for the program of study in the major area. The student, in consultation with the research advisor, chooses the two minor areas of study and the minor area advisors. The courses comprising the program of study for the minor areas must be approved by the minor area advisors.

The first stage of study toward a Doctoral degree is completed when the student has received credit for a total of 60 cr-hrs of graduate work in a program prescribed by the student's advisor and has passed the Candidacy Examination (see  Section 5 ) to be formally admitted to candidacy. At least three months prior to taking the Candidacy Examination, a proposed schedule of study should be submitted to the Chair of the Graduate Studies Committee for consideration.

The second stage is devoted primarily to research and seminars, the preparation of the dissertation, and the Final Examination (see  Section 6 ). The Final Examination is oral and deals intensively with the portion of the candidate's field of specialization in which the dissertation falls, though it need not be confined exclusively to the subject matter of the dissertation.

Overall Requirements

The CSE Ph.D. Qualifying Process consists of two components: one is coursework, and the other is research. To pass the Qualifying Process, a student needs to demonstrate satisfactory performance on both components: (1) Be competent and knowledgeable on fundamental principles of computer science and engineering, and (2) show promise for conducting original research in the areas of computer science and engineering.

For the coursework component, a student needs to achieve the average GPA of 3.3 or above on four CSE courses that include a required Algorithms course (CSE 6331) and three other courses chosen by the student in consultation with the faculty advisor  [1] . The three courses can be chosen from the seven categories listed below with at most one course from a single category. Note that a student may count one Qualifying course in this new Qualifying Process towards the major/minor course requirements in the Candidacy Exam. For the research component, a student is required to work with their faculty advisor and demonstrate satisfactory research progress  [2] .

Course Categories

The seven categories of CSE courses include: (1) Artificial Intelligence and Data Mining (CSE 6521, CSE 5523, CSE 5526, CSE 5243, CSE 5245) (2) Graphics and Visualization (CSE 5542, CSE 5543, CSE 5544, CSE 5545, CSE 5546) (3) Computer Networking (CSE 5462, CSE 5463) (4) Security and Privacy (CSE 5471, CSE5472, CSE 5473, CSE 5474) (5) Computer Systems (CSE 6431, CSE 6421, CSE 6333, CSE 5242, CSE 5441) (6) Software Engineering and Programing Languages (CSE 6341, CSE 5343) (7) Computer Theory (CSE 6321, CSE 6332, CSE 5351)

Procedures and Timeline

A Qualifying Process has two checkpoints: the first is by the end of Year 1  [2]  and the second is by the end of Year 2 [3] . In the first checkpoint, a student reports the grades of the Qualifying courses that have been taken. The student will comment on their progress towards identifying a research advisor and making research progress.

Early in the program, a student should identify research advisor(s) for the Ph.D. study. This may be the same as the initial academic advisor assigned by the Department, or a different faculty member.  The research advisor must be a member of the graduate faculty with “P” advising status in CSE. A student should declare the research advisor,  even if she or he is the same as the initial academic advisor,  by filing a Change of Advisor Form. This form is available through the Electronic Signature application called Docusign. The process begins by clicking on the following link which will send you an email and guide you in filling out the information needed: Change of Advisor Form . The research advisor will provide academic and research advice once the change of advisor form is submitted.

In the second checkpoint, a student reports the grades of the Qualifying courses that have been taken. The student’s faculty advisor will be contacted subsequently to provide input on the student’s research progress. Based on the student’s course work performance and the advisor’s research assessment, the Grad Studies Committee will notify the student of the Qualifying Process result at the second checkpoint. Both checkpoint forms can be found at  the CSE Portal .

If a student does not achieve the GPA requirement with the first four courses, a student may (a) retake the same course (required for Algorithms), (b) take a different course in the same course category, or (c) take a course in another course category.  This should be done in consultation with the faculty advisor. 

Students may file the second checkpoint form once they have achieved satisfactory performance on both coursework and research components, which could be earlier than the end of Year 2. Students should consult with their research advisor before submitting the second checkpoint form.

To maintain the status of “Good Standing” in CSE [4] , a Ph.D. student is expected to pass the Qualifying Process by the end of Year 2. Otherwise, a student who is not in good standing will not have a guaranteed appointment as a graduate teaching associate. A student who continues to not return to good standing in a timely way (e.g., by the end of the third year) may be dismissed from the Ph.D. program in Computer Science and Engineering after a conversation among the student, advisor, and graduate studies committee.

Implementation

This new Ph.D. Qualifying Process will be effective starting from  Autumn 2022.  Specifically, a student who is enrolled in the Ph.D. program of CSE in Autumn 2022 or after can only take this new Ph.D. Qualifying Process. For a smooth transition, a student who was enrolled prior to Autumn 2022 may choose to take this new Qualifying Process or the old Qualifying Exam.

Definitions and Criteria

• Faculty advisor : A student’s initial academic advisor assigned by the Department, or the research advisor chosen by the student.
• The criteria of satisfactory research performance : The most common way of satisfying this requirement is for the student to be a leading or significant contributor on a paper published, accepted, submitted, or in preparation to submit to a venue in Computer Science. Faculty advisors may provide evidence that the student has satisfied this requirement in other ways, such as making a significant contribution in research artifacts such as released software packages.
• The end of Year x : Two weeks after the end of 2*x non-summer terms since a student’s initial enrollment in the Ph.D. program of Computer Science and Engineering at Ohio State University.
• Good Standing in CSE : In addition to  the requirements from the Grad School , a Ph.D. student in CSE is required to pass the Qualifying Process by the end of Year 2. Students must also demonstrate English proficiency through one of the approved mechanisms listed on  the “English as a Second Language” website  by the end of Year 1.

Additional Notes

• While there is no accelerated option in the new policy of the PhD Qualifying Process, the accelerated option is still applicable to a student who was enrolled prior to Autumn 2022 if the student chooses to take the Qualifying Exam in the old policy.
• A student cannot transfer the credits of a Qualifying course from their prior institutes. If a student took a Qualifying course in the undergraduate program at Ohio State, the course can be counted towards the requirement of the Qualifying Process. However, the course credits cannot be counted towards their Ph.D. degree requirement except for the situations (such as the BS/MS program) allowed by the Graduate School.

The Qualifying Examination is administered Autumn and Spring semesters. Satisfactory performance on this examination, or qualification through the acceleration option listed below, is necessary for admission to the first stage of study towards the Doctoral degree.

The Qualifying Examination is based on the material covered in the graduate core areas. Specifically, students need to take the exam in algorithms (CSE 6331), either computability and unsolvability (CSE 6321) or programming languages (CSE 6341), and either operating systems (CSE 6431) or computer architecture (CSE 6421). Students who have previously studied this material are not required to take the corresponding core courses(s) in the CSE Department; they need only demonstrate their competence in these areas by satisfactory performance on the Qualifying Examination.

At the time students take the examination, they must have been admitted to the CSE Department and not be on probation. A student whose enrollment eligibility has been deactivated by the Graduate School may, if subsequently reactivated, be required to re-take the Qualifying Examination.

A student who fails the qualifying examination for the first time must retake the examination the next semester that it is offered. Students must petition the Graduate Studies Committee to retake the examination in any other semester or to retake the examination more than once.

Acceleration Option for Qualifying Exams : Students who complete the three graduate core classes (algorithms, either computability and unsolvability or programming languages, and either operating systems or computer architecture) with a GPA of 3.6 or better will be automatically granted a "conditional pass" in the qualifying examination. These students will need to demonstrate substantial research progress during their second year spring evaluation to remove the condition. One clear mechanism for demonstrating such progress is to have an accepted or submitted paper as a significant contributor, working on a project with their advisor.

Fill out the online form in the CSE Portal to apply for the Accelerate option. Advisor must approve it online.

This section further specifies the procedure set forth for the Candidacy Examination in the Graduate School Handbook. That section must be read in conjunction with this document for a full understanding of the rules governing the Candidacy Examination. The Candidacy Examination is a very important means by which the faculty can ensure that the prospective student has the necessary breadth and depth in chosen areas within computer and information science and cognate areas. The student is expected to demonstrate superior knowledge in his or her chosen areas.

To be eligible for the Candidacy Examination, the student is required to select one major area and two minor areas. The student may choose any of the pre-defined major or minor areas specified in the "Guidelines for the Ph.D. Candidacy Exam Major/Minor Areas". To demonstrate mastery in the two minor areas, the student is required to obtain a GPA of 3.3 or higher in the letter-graded courses taken in each of two minor areas. To demonstrate mastery in the major area, the student is expected to prepare a dissertation proposal. The student and the student's major advisor may suggest two examiners who are competent in the student's major area. In the Candidacy Examination, the student will be examined in written and oral format over the major area and the dissertation proposal.

The student is required to submit to the Graduate Studies Committee a proposed schedule of study for the candidacy examination at least three months in advance of the examination. The schedule should include the choice of major and minor areas, counter-signed by the student's major and two minor advisors, and the student's preliminary dissertation proposal, counter-signed by the student's major advisor and two other faculty members who will serve on the Candidacy Examination Committee. The schedule must also indicate those courses and individual studies already accomplished in each of the major and minor areas, together with additional work planned at this time. The Graduate School must be notified before the written portion of the Candidacy Examination begins. The form of the schedule of study can be  downloaded here .

After the student's proposed schedule of study has been approved by the Graduate Studies Committee, the Candidacy Examination should be scheduled in consultation with the examination committee. At least 2 weeks prior to the scheduled oral examination date, the student should declare formally the intent to take the oral portion of the Candidacy Examination. This Declaration of Intent form must be signed by the student's major advisor and the Chair of the Graduate Studies Committee before transmittal to the Dean of the Graduate School for approval.

The Examination Committee consists of at least four faculty members, including the student's major advisor, two other members of the Graduate Faculty approved by the Graduate Studies Committee for this function, and a departmental representative appointed by the Graduate Studies Committee.

The Candidacy Examination consists of two parts, namely, a written examination and an oral examination. The precise times and places of the administration of the Examination will be determined by the Examination Committee, but the entire Examination must be administered within a three-month period.

The written portion is administered and evaluated by the student's Advisory Committee. It is conducted in the following steps.

a. The student prepares a written dissertation proposal. The proposal should be concise and precise, and should include the following:

• Title and abstract
• Significance of the problem
• Scope and objectives of the research
• Methodology
• Expected results and conclusions

Students are encouraged to include in the written portion any preliminary results that support the dissertation proposal. The dissertation proposal must be submitted to all members of the Advisory Committee.

b. On receiving the dissertation proposal, the major advisor compiles a written examination for the student, taking into consideration questions posed by and comments received from the rest of the Advisory Committee.

The written examination consists of two parts. The first part asks questions related to the submitted dissertation proposal. The purpose of this part is to examine whether the dissertation proposal has substantial depth to lead to quality research and whether the student is well prepared to conduct the research outlined in the proposal. The student may be asked to revise the proposal in accordance with the suggestions received. The second part examines the student on his overall breadth and depth in his major area.

c. On receiving the written examination, the student submits written answers to the questions (and possibly a revised dissertation proposal, if so requested) to all members of the Advisory Committee.

d. The Advisory Committee evaluates the written portion including the dissertation proposal. If, based on the written portion, the Advisory Committee members see no possibility for a satisfactory overall performance on the Candidacy Examination, the Advisory Committee records an "unsatisfactory" on the Candidacy Examination report form and returns it to the Graduate School.

The oral candidacy examination shall last approximately two hours. In addition, a 30-45 minute presentation on the proposed research must be made prior to the oral examination, but after the candidate has made their written proposal available to the committee. As per Graduate School rules, the two hour oral examination is strictly an examination and may not include a formal oral presentation of the dissertation proposal. During this oral examination, the student should be prepared to defend his or her dissertation proposal and to answer questions on a range of topics including the area of specialization and general fundamentals of computer science. Examinees may use prepared slides in answering questions about their proposal. A passing grade requires a unanimous vote of the examination committee.

Notice of the time and place of both the oral portion of the Candidacy Examination and the presentation prior to that will be given to all faculty of the Department.

The student is considered to have passed the Candidacy Examination only when the decision of the Examination Committee is unanimous. The student's performance is evaluated and reported to the Graduate School as "satisfactory" (implying admission to candidacy) or "unsatisfactory" (implying failure and denial of admission to candidacy). When a failure is reported, the student may be permitted to take a second examination if recommended by the Candidacy Examination Committee. No student will be permitted to take the Candidacy Examination more than twice. The advisor is also reminded that a copy of the report to the Graduate School must be sent to the Chair of the Graduate Studies Committee for the Departmental record and student file.

After a student has passed the Candidacy Examination, the advisor of the student will nominate a Dissertation Committee to consider the merit of the dissertation. The members of the Dissertation Committee should be kept informed of the progress of research, thus giving them opportunities to make constructive suggestions for improvement of the dissertation.

The Dissertation Committee will consist of the advisor and two other members of the Graduate Faculty approved by the Graduate Studies Committee for this function. Normally, the Dissertation Committee must be approved no later than in one semester in advance of the anticipated graduation date. It is suggested that the Dissertation Committee be chosen from the committee which administered the Candidacy Examination.

The Graduate School should be consulted on the various deadlines for submission of the dissertation as well as for regulations governing the mechanics of its preparation. The Graduate School is to be informed of the Dissertation Committee members and the subject of the dissertation in the semester of expected graduation.

The Final Oral Examination is held after the approval of the draft of the dissertation by the Dissertation Committee. Generally, the Dissertation Committee and a Graduate School representative will constitute the Final Oral Examination Committee. The examination will be oral and will deal intensively with the portion of the candidate's field of specialization, though it need not be confined exclusively to the subject matter of the student's dissertation. A unanimous vote of the Final Oral Examination Committee is required for the student to pass.

It is expected that the dissertation be made available, and an announcement of the examination be made, at least one week in advance of the Final Oral Examination. The examination is open to the general public. Non-committee members should be permitted to ask questions. It is expected that the Chair of the Committee will control the ordering and kind of questions asked to ensure fairness and reasonable progress of the examination and to ensure that members of the Examination Committee have sufficient opportunity to question the candidate.

Students intending to pursue study towards a Ph.D. may apply directly to the Direct Ph.D. track. In the Direct Ph.D. track, students focus on research and study in selected areas of concentration from the beginning of their graduate studies, thereby facilitating more rapid progress towards the degree.

n addition to the standard requirements of the Ph.D. program, as detailed earlier, Direct Ph.D. students are required to satisfy the following progress requirements:

• Complete all the core courses during the first year of study and either qualify through the acceleration option, or appear for the Qualifying Examination by the first semester of the second year in the program. Students unable to meet this requirement should petition in advance to the graduate studies chair, with support of their advisor.
• Take at least 3 research cr-hrs in the form of independent study, research seminars ("Advanced Topics in ..."), or thesis research every semester, commencing from their second semester.
• Identify their research advisor and the major/minor areas of study by the end of the Spring semester of their first year (or their second semester, if they enter the Direct Ph.D. track in a different term). Students may change research advisor or major/minor areas, with the approval of the Graduate Studies Committee.

Students in the Direct Ph.D. track can obtain a Masters automatically by passing the Ph.D. Candidacy Examination. A student in the Direct Ph.D. track is not eligible to take the Department's Masters Comprehensive Examination or to apply for a Masters by writing and defending a Masters thesis. However, a student who is unable to make adequate progress in the Direct Ph.D. track after two years in the program may petition the Graduate Studies Committee to transfer to the Research (Thesis) Track of the Masters program.

Doctoral Program

The primary focus of the doctoral program is research, with the philosophy that students learn best by doing—beginning as apprentices and becoming junior colleagues working with faculty on scholarly research projects. The faculty in the department conduct research in all areas of computer science. The doctoral degree requires a dissertation based on the candidate’s original research, which is supervised by a faculty member, and all students in the doctioral program are actively engaged in research throughout the program.

The PhD is the Computer Science Department’s primary doctoral program.  PhD students are expected to be full-time on-campus during every fall and spring academic semester from initial enrollment until the dissertation has been distributed to their defense committee, except during leaves of absence approved by the university.  PhD students spend at least half of their time on research under the direction of their faculty adviser from their first day in the program and devote themselves full time to research after coursework and other preliminaries have been completed. PhD students are also expected to participate in departmental and laboratory activities full time throughout the program, except possibly for summer internships elsewhere, and the department does not consider admission of part-time PhD students. The policy on outside activities by PhD students is here .

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(link suggestions appreciated; send email to [email protected] )

Last updated on July 11, 2024.

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In the News

Press mentions, dean boyce's statement on amicus brief filed by president bollinger.

President Bollinger announced that Columbia University along with many other academic institutions (sixteen, including all Ivy League universities) filed an amicus brief in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York challenging the Executive Order regarding immigrants from seven designated countries and refugees. Among other things, the brief asserts that “safety and security concerns can be addressed in a manner that is consistent with the values America has always stood for, including the free flow of ideas and people across borders and the welcoming of immigrants to our universities.”

This recent action provides a moment for us to collectively reflect on our community within Columbia Engineering and the importance of our commitment to maintaining an open and welcoming community for all students, faculty, researchers and administrative staff. As a School of Engineering and Applied Science, we are fortunate to attract students and faculty from diverse backgrounds, from across the country, and from around the world. It is a great benefit to be able to gather engineers and scientists of so many different perspectives and talents – all with a commitment to learning, a focus on pushing the frontiers of knowledge and discovery, and with a passion for translating our work to impact humanity.

I am proud of our community, and wish to take this opportunity to reinforce our collective commitment to maintaining an open and collegial environment. We are fortunate to have the privilege to learn from one another, and to study, work, and live together in such a dynamic and vibrant place as Columbia.

Mary C. Boyce Dean of Engineering Morris A. and Alma Schapiro Professor

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Computer Science, PhD

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Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Technology, approved for STEM-OPT extension, computing, database, enggradcs, systems

Take the next step in your journey to become an effective leader, innovator, entrepreneur or educator in your community and the world.

The PhD program in computer science prepares students to undertake fundamental and applied research in computer science. The program is available for those of high ability who seek to develop and implement their own research studies.

Students pursuing the doctorate in computer science learn to analyze, understand and apply key theories and algorithms used in the field and to generate and evaluate new theories, algorithms and software modules that can advance the field of computer science.

The program provides students with research opportunities in a wide variety of areas, including:

• artificial intelligence, machine learning and statistical modeling
• big data and data mining
• computational biology
• computer design and architecture, including nonvolatile memory computing
• computer system security, cybersecurity and cryptography
• cyber-physical systems and Internet of Things (commonly abbreviated as IoT), and robotics
• distributed computing and consensus protocols
• networking and computer systems
• novel computing paradigms (e.g., biocomputing, quantum computation)
• social computing
• theory, algorithms and optimization
• visualization and graphics

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.

• College/school: Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering
• Location: Tempe
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core Areas (9 credit hours) applications (3) foundations (3) systems (3)

Depth (3 credit hours) three additional credit hours in one core area (3)

Research (18 credit hours) CSE 792 Research (18)

Electives and Additional Research (42 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) CSE 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information Courses that are used to satisfy the core area requirement cannot be used to satisfy electives or other requirements. A grade of "B" or better is required for core courses.

Eighteen credit hours of CSE 792 Research are required, and up to 54 credit hours are allowed on the plan of study. Students with research credit hours in excess of 18 add these credit hours to their electives and additional research.

Electives include:

• additional CSE 792 Research credit hours (up to 36 credit hours allowed beyond the required 18)
• computer science courses, of which up to 18 credit hours of CSE 590 and CSE 790: Reading and Conference are allowed
• up to six credit hours of interdisciplinary electives in other academic units that are subject to program chair approval

When approved by the academic unit and the Graduate College, this program allows 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree to be used for this degree.

A maximum of three credit hours of 400-level coursework may be applied to the plan of study.

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, computer engineering or a closely related area. Most applicants should have earned a master's degree, but exceptional undergraduate applicants may be admitted directly into the doctoral program.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.50 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or they must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.50 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts from every university attended
• three letters of recommendation
• a statement of purpose
• curriculum vitae or resume
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Submission of GRE scores is optional.

Students assigned any deficiency coursework upon admission must complete those classes with a grade of "C" or higher (scale is 4.00 = "A") within two semesters of admission to the program. Deficiency courses commonly taken include:

CSE 230 Computer Organization and Assembly Language Programming CSE 310 Data Structures and Algorithms CSE 330 Operating Systems CSE 340 Principles of Programming Languages or CSE 355 Introduction to Theoretical Computer Science

The applicant's undergraduate GPA and depth of preparation in computer science and engineering are the primary factors affecting admission.

Graduates are prepared to pursue careers in research and education, including academia, government and industry.

Career examples include:

• computer science professor or researcher
• data scientist or engineer
• machine learning, AI or computer vision scientist or engineer

Computer Science and Engineering Program | CTRPT 105 [email protected] 480-965-3199

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PhD in Computer Science

Our doctoral program is a full-time program: Admitted doctoral students have only the Ph.D. as their degree objective, and they have guaranteed funding for up to five years.

Applying to the PhD Program

2025 admission requirements.

Questions about our PhD program should be directed by email to [email protected] .

Information about applying to the PhD program including  applications requirements ,  admissions information ,  admissions FAQs , and  funding information  can be found on the  Guarini School of Advanced and Graduate Studies  website.

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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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Graduate Program

• Information for Prospective Graduate Students
• Information for Current Graduate Students

For Prospective Graduate Students:

Welcome ! Thank you for your interest in the Computer Science Department at Princeton. This site is designed to give information on our graduate study program and the requirements for the Master of Science in Engineering (M.S.E.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) . Candidates may apply directly to the Ph.D. program after completion of a bachelor's degree; a master's degree is not required for admission.

Admission to Princeton is for the fall semester only. We do not offer evening, weekend, or summer courses. We do not have a distance learning program. Normally a student admitted for graduate study is expected to have completed a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering, science, or mathematics; a degree in computer science is not required.

The application deadline for Fall 2025 is December 15, 2024  for all applicants. It is important that all materials reach the University by the deadline dates.

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For more information, see the  frequently asked questions . You can also contact our Graduate Coordinator at [email protected].

For Current Ph.D. Graduate Students:

• Courses Offered -  Graduate ,  Undergraduate
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For Current MSE & M.Eng. Graduate Students:

College of Computing

Ph.d. cs admissions requirements.

The application deadline for the Ph.D. in Computer Science is December 15th. The basic requirements for admission to the program are as follows:

• General Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are optional. Recently, accepted applicant scores have averaged 80%, 90+%, 90+% respectively on the verbal, quantitative and analytical sections.
• The desirable minimum undergraduate GPA is 3.5/4.0.
• The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) test is required for candidates whose native language is not English and who have not studied in the United States for at least one year. The required minimum is 600 (paper test) or 250 (computer test); however, most candidates are well above this score.
• We will also accept IELTS beginning in Spring 2020.  A minimum overall score of 7.5 is required, with minimum section scores as follows:  Reading 6.5, Listening 6.5, Speaking 6.5, Writing 5.5.
• Completion of the  online application

The application requires three recommendation letters from people closely acquainted with the student about academic competence. Letters from the academic community are preferred.

In general, there are many more qualified applicants than there are places in the program. The challenge for the College every year is to select a class from a very qualified pool. The College looks for compelling reasons to admit candidates. We welcome all pertinent information that would assist us in making an objective and informed decision on your admission.

All application materials should be submitted to the Institute's Graduate Admissions Office and must be received by the application deadline to ensure adequate consideration of your application.

*Note that our Master's (M.S.) program is separate from our Ph.D. program. If the eventual degree you seek is a Ph.D., you will need to apply directly to the doctoral program.

Ph.D. candidates are typically offered a research or teaching assistantship which includes a stipend and tuition remission.

The Master's program does not offer financial aid to the majority of students. Aid will be based on qualifications for the program, not need.

Dean's Messages

Gt computing helping stories.

Computer Science Ph.D. Requirements

Complete these Ph.D. in Computer Science requirements.

Admission Requirements

• Master’s degree, normally in an engineering or science related field with an overall graduate GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale), or a Bachelor’s degree, normally in an engineering or science related field with an overall undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) and the Graduate Record Examination General Test.
• Expertise in a high level programming language and a basic knowledge of data structures.
• Basic knowledge of formal languages, automata, and computability.
• Basic knowledge of computer architecture or operating systems.
• Basic knowledge of calculus, statistics, and linear algebra.
• Satisfy the School of Graduate Studies’ English Language Proficiency requirements as listed in the Graduate Academic Information section.

The School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science recognizes that the prerequisite expertise identified above may be acquired in a variety of ways. Students who do not meet all of the requirements may be admitted with qualified status with the obligation to meet the remaining requirements early in their graduate study.

Degree Requirements

Students seeking the Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science degree must satisfy all general requirements set forth by the School of Graduate Studies. In addition, they must meet the following requirements set by the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science:

 1.    Degree requirements for students with an approved Master degree: 

• Complete a minimum of 24 credit hours of CSCI 999 Dissertation Research
• Complete a minimum of 15 credit hours of EE, CSCI, DATA, or EECS graduate level coursework
• Complete 3 credit hours of EECS 500 graduate seminar with a passing grade
• Complete 18 credit hours of elective credits that consists of any combination of additional courses and/or additional Research credits as approved by the student’s Faculty Advisory Committee.
• Form a Faculty Advisory Committee in the first semester in the program.  The chair of this committee must be approved by the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Graduate Committee.
• Successfully complete the Graduate Qualifying Examination (GQE) consisting of a thorough review of a selection of publications that are relevant to the student’s research area and assigned by their Faculty Advisory Committee.  The GQE should be completed after the student has completed at least 18 credit hours of doctoral study, but prior to the completion of 27 credit hours.
• Successfully complete the Comprehensive Examination consisting of both the written proposal and an oral defense. The comprehensive examination should be completed after the student has completed at least 36 credit hours of doctoral study, but prior to the completion of 45 credit hours.
• Oral Final Examination which includes a defense of the student’s dissertation.  The oral defense of the student’s dissertation must take place at least one semester after satisfactory completion of the comprehensive examination.
• Submission of the dissertation document, approved by the student’s Faculty Advisory Committee.
• At least two high quality peer reviewed journal articles and two peer reviewed conference papers, as the first author, must be submitted for publication.  These manuscripts must be submitted with the consent of the student’s academic advisor.  

2.     Degree requirements for students with an approved Bachelor degree:

• Complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of CSCI 999 Dissertation Research
• Complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of EE, CSCI, DATA, or EECS graduate level coursework
• Complete 3 credit hours of EECS 500 with a passing grade
• Complete 21 credit hours of elective credits that consists of any combination of additional courses and/or additional Research credits as approved by the student’s Faculty Advisory Committee.
• Successfully complete the Graduate Qualifying Examination (GQE) consisting of a thorough review of a selection of publications that are relevant to the student’s research area and assigned by their Faculty Advisory Committee.  The GQE should be completed after the student has completed at least 36 credit hours of doctoral study, but prior to the completion of 45 credit hours.
• Successfully complete the Preliminary Exam consisting of both the proposal document and an oral defense of this proposal.  The comprehensive examination should be completed after the student has completed at least 63 credit hours of doctoral study, but prior to the completion of 72 credit hours.

Graduate Admissions Requirements

In addition to meeting these program requirements, you must also meet the UND School of Graduate Studies admissions requirements to apply for this program.

Graduate Requirements

Computer Science Ph.D. Requirements Disclaimer

The requirements on this page are pulled from UND’s academic catalog and may not reflect future terms. Updates are published annually in April.

By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to set cookies, Privacy Information .

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Computer Science Doctoral Program

Program details.

Prepare to make an enduring impact in fields like machine learning, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity with a Ph.D. in computer science from Stevens.

The Department of Computer Science offers dynamic opportunities to explore leading-edge research within a close community of faculty mentors. You'll be able to study under a faculty mentor in the area that you find most exciting:

AI and Machine Learning

Computer Vision

Big Data Analytics

Programming Languages

Computer Security and Cryptography

Software Systems

Computer Science Research

The computer science department at Stevens offers you a maximum amount of flexibility to pursue research opportunities in cutting-edge, competitive areas of exploration like secure systems, machine learning, cryptography and visual computing. You’ll work with recognized leaders in the field, gain exposure to top industry labs and learn sought-after principles that will help propel your career. Learn more about research in the Department of Computer Science.

The Stevens Advantage

Stevens’ Hoboken, N.J., location enables lucrative collaborations and future employment opportunities at universities, corporations and agencies, including NYU, Columbia, Rutgers/DIMACS, AT&T Labs, Bell Labs and Google New York.

More Advantages to Our Program

Advanced interdisciplinary research opportunities

Comprehensive, high-quality graduate computer science curriculum

Full financial support through teaching/research assistantships and fellowships

Welcoming and inclusive environment for all students

Additional Information

Who should apply.

We welcome applicants with a love of hacking and a drive to innovate. Ideal candidates hold a master’s degree in computer science (up to 30 credits may transfer to Stevens’ Ph.D. program). Exceptionally well-qualified applicants with a bachelor’s degree in computer science may be considered for the Ph.D. program.

Program Admission Requirements

Bachelor’s degree, with a minimum GPA of 3.0, from an accredited institution

Official college transcripts

Two letters of recommendation

Resume or curriculum vitae

A statement of purpose

For international students: An excellent TOEFL/IELTS score

A competitive GRE or GMAT score (required for both part-time and full-time applicants)

Writing sample (such as journal or conference publication, thesis, or research reports)

See all requirements >

For information about fellowships and assistantships, contact Graduate Admissions.  Contact >

Information about assistantships and fellowships can be found here .

The computer science Ph.D. program at Stevens allows outstanding students who want to change the face of computer science to work with world-class faculty in high-impact research. Upon enrollment in the program, students study full time, receive full financial support as teaching or research assistants or fellows, and start conducting research immediately, under the supervision of a faculty advisor, on topics that broadly span cutting-edge research areas, such as AI and Machine Learning, Big Data Analytics, Computer Security and Cryptography, Computer Vision, Programming Languages and Software Systems. After completion of the program, Ph.D. graduates go on to join the world experts in their particular area of specialization, choosing to pursue a variety of career paths, from faculty in academia to software engineers at giant companies, research scientists at industry or government laboratories and agencies, as well as data scientists at finance companies and hedge funds.

Degree Requirements

To successfully complete the computer science Ph.D. program, incoming enrolled students (by default in the "Ph.D. Enrollee" status) should fulfill a number of requirements, generally comprised of the following:

Advancement to "Ph.D. Student" status, by satisfying a certain breadth course requirement

Advancement to "Ph.D. Candidate" status, by satisfying a qualifying examination

Submission of a doctoral dissertation by satisfying a thesis proposal defense and thesis defense.

In addition, the Ph.D. degree requires that Ph.D. candidates have also:

Completed the Doctoral Signature Credit Seminar (PRV 961) before their thesis proposal; and

Earned 84 credits (graduate credits, beyond the bachelor’s degree) during their entire studies in the Ph.D. program.

These requirements are in addition to Institute-wide requirements that apply to all doctoral students, as listed in the doctoral student handbook and catalog.

VIEW REQUIREMENTS >

(Note: Students who entered the Ph.D. program before February 28th, 2018 can find previous versions of the program requirements in the drop down below this one.)

Transferred Graduate Credits

Students who enter the Ph.D. program and already possess a master’s (M.Sc.) degree in computer science, or related area, are advised to apply for recognition of their degree during their first semester in the program. Requests for recognition of prior M.Sc. degrees go through the Ph.D. program chair and a review committee, specifically assigned for this purpose.

Upon recognition of your M.Sc. degree, you will gain 30 graduate course credits toward your doctoral degree and the Ph.D. Student status, thus automatically satisfying the breadth requirement.

If you have other existing graduate credits or experience in this area of study, please contact the Graduate Academics & Student Success ( [email protected] ) to discuss opportunities to include it in the curriculum.

Graduate Credit Requirement

As discussed above, students who enter the Ph.D. program and already possess a M.Sc. degree in computer science, or related area, may be granted up to 30 credits towards their Ph.D. degree.

Accordingly, earning the 84, in total, required credits may be fulfilled by a combination of the following: enrollment in classroom courses, enrollment in courses for guided research participation (typically, by earning up to 6 credits via CS801 and a number of research credits via CS960), or having a prior M.Sc. degree approved to count for up to 30 credits. The division of a student’s efforts between classroom courses and research-participation courses will vary from case to case; this is a decision that should be made by the student in consultation with, and with the approval of, the student’s advisor.

Although there is no minimum number of classroom courses for the Ph.D. degree, research credits earned via CS-960 are subject to the following Institute-wide restrictions of usage:

For additional information about courses, please review the academic catalog.

The preliminary requirements for the doctorate are regarded not as ends in themselves, but rather as preparation for the dissertation in which the student demonstrates ability.

Breadth Requirement

To satisfy the breadth requirement, students enrolled in the Ph.D. program must successfully complete a qualified set of three elected courses by the end of the first year of studies in the Ph.D. program. Successful completion refers to earning a grade of A- or better in each of the three elected courses, and qualified set refers to any set of three courses selected from the following list of doctoral-level courses that covers both thematic course categories. Upon completion of this requirement, enrollees in the Ph.D. program become Ph.D. candidates.

Currently, courses should be selected among the following:

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

CS-532 3D Computer Vision

CS-541 Artificial Intelligence

CS-558 Computer Vision

CS-559 Machine Learning: Fundamentals and Applications

CS-560 Statistical Machine Learning

CS-582 Causal Inference

CS-583 Deep Learning

CS-584 Natural Language Processing

CS-589 Text Mining and Information Retrieval

CS-598 Visual Information Retrieval

Systems, Languages and Cybersecurity

CS-510 Principles of Programming Languages

CS-511 Concurrent programming

CS-516 Compiler Design

CS-522 Mobile Systems and Applications

CS-549 Distributed Systems and Cloud Computing

CS-576 Systems Security

CS-577 Reverse Engineering and Application Analysis

CS-578 Privacy in a Networked World

CS-579 Foundations of Cryptography

CS-609 Data Management and Exploration on the Web

CS-643 Formal Verification of Software

CS-665 Forensic Analysis

CS-676 Advanced Topics in Systems Security

CS-677 Parallel Programming for Many-core Processors

CS-693 Cryptographic Protocols

Qualifying Examination

The qualifying exam consists of two parts: one oral and one written. The exam must be completed no later than one year after attaining the status of Ph.D. student, though it is recommended that students attempt it earlier. Upon qualification, Ph.D. students become Ph.D. candidates.

The oral part of the qualifying exam is an oral examination on a syllabus consisting of research papers prepared jointly by the student and a committee that includes the advisor and two tenure-track faculty members. The goal is to establish a scholarship in an area of research. The oral examination consists of a presentation, followed by open-door questions from the audience and committee and closed-door questions from the committee. The committee can pass, fail or request re-examination (either written or oral).

Written Part

The written part of the qualifying exam consists of earning a grade of B+ or better in CS 601 “Algorithmic Complexity,” which is offered in two versions each academic year: First, as a standalone exam each January, or as a regular doctoral-level course each Spring. Students must successfully pass written part of the qualifying exam with at most two attempts and are highly encouraged to take the exam during their first year of studies in the Ph.D. program.

Thesis Proposal and Advisory Committee

Students must write and present a thesis proposal, where they lay out an intended course of research for their dissertation. The proposal should contain an explanation of the problem and why it is important, a sketch of the proposed solution and background information that serves to indicate that the problem is unsolved and what prior or related approaches to this or similar problems have already been investigated. The written proposal must be distributed and read by a thesis advisory committee, comprising the persons that are expected to form the student’s dissertation defense committee. The presentation of the thesis proposal is open to the public and it is followed by open-door questions from the audience and committee and closed-door questions from the committee. The committee can pass, fail or request additional material from the student. The thesis proposal document must be submitted to the committee at least two weeks before the presentation date. The presentation of the thesis proposal must be announced by email (on the CS-faculty and CS-PHD-students lists) at least one week in advance.

Doctoral Dissertation Defense

The department follows the Stevens-wide procedures for the dissertation defense, including committee composition. The defense must be announced at least two weeks in advance on the cs-faculty and cs-phd-students mailing lists; this is in addition to the required Stevens-wide announcement originating with the Registrar's office. At least one manuscript based on dissertation work must be published in peer-reviewed conference proceedings or journals, at the time of the dissertation defense and the thesis document must be in the hands of the committee at least six weeks in advance. For more information please refer to the online catalog. The committee can ask major or minor revisions, or fail the student. If major revisions are requested, at least a month of time is required for the student to make the changes and submit an updated dissertation. The amount of time given to the student to make revisions will not exceed 9 months unless there are extenuating circumstances.

Timeline Summary

The following summarizes the major milestones in the CS PhD program.

Admission to Ph.D. program: every enrollee is assigned an advisor;

Attainment of status of Ph.D. student:

Students with recognized MS degree (during their 1st semester in the program);

Completion of breadth requirement (by the end of 1st year in the program);

Attainment of status of Ph.D. candidate: Completion of the qualifying exam (1 year after attaining the status of Ph.D. student, earlier recommended);

Completion of Doctoral Signature Credit Seminar (PRV 961);

Formation of the thesis advisory committee and submission and defense of their thesis proposal (as mandated by Institute-wide regulations);

Submission and defense of their thesis (as mandated by Institute-wide regulations).

Past Computer Science Doctoral Degree Requirements

Effective  November 2, 2016 - February 27,2018

This document states the requirements for CS doctoral students in addition to the requirements that apply to all doctoral students, as listed in the doctoral student handbook and catalog.

Students must complete at least three graduate courses from the courses listed below with an A- and with at least one coming from each category. Additionally, students must pass a written exam in the subject of algorithms, which will be offered near the end of Fall and Spring semesters. The courses and exam must be completed by their 4th semester and students have a maximum of two attempts to pass the algorithms exam (similarly to the older written qualification exams).

Artificial Intelligence

Systems and languages.

CS-576 Secure Systems

Research Seminars

PhD students are required to attend CS seminars and their attendance will be recorded. Students failing to meet this requirement may be put on probation at the discretion of the faculty.

Qualifying Exam

The qualifying exam is an oral examination on a syllabus consisting of research papers, prepared jointly by the student and a committee including the advisor and two tenure-track faculty members. The goal is to establish scholarship in an area of research. The exam needs to be completed by the end of the 4th semester. It consists of a presentation, followed by open-door questions from the audience and a closed-door examination from the committee. The committee can pass, fail, or request re-examination (either written or oral).

Thesis Proposal

Students must write and present a thesis proposal, where they lay out an intended course of research for their dissertation. The proposal should contain an explanation of the problem and why it is important, a sketch of the proposed solution, and background information that serves to indicate that the problem is unsolved and what prior or related approaches to this or similar problems have already been investigated. The written proposal must be distributed and read by a committee, comprising the persons that are expected to form the student’s dissertation defense committee. The presentation of the thesis proposal is open to the public and it is followed by open-door questions from the audience and committee and closed-door questions from the committee. The committee can pass, fail, or request additional material from the student.

Dissertation and Thesis Defense

The department follows the Stevens-wide procedures for the dissertation defense, including committee composition. The defense must be announced at least two weeks in advance on the cs-faculty and cs-phd-students mailing lists as well as a Stevens-wide announcement originating with the Registrar's office. At least one manuscript based on dissertation work must be published on peer-reviewed conference proceedings or journal, at the time of the dissertation defense, and the thesis document must be in the hands of the committee at least four weeks in advance. For more information please refer to the online catalog. The committee can ask major or minor revisions, or fail the student. If major revisions are requested, at least a month of time is required for the student to make the changes and submit an updated dissertation. The amount of time given to the student to make revisions will not exceed 9 months, unless there are extenuating circumstances.

A Tech Forward Education

I like that Stevens puts effort into developing social activities each semester for Ph.D. students, helping peers connect to each other and providing workshops for technical writing, teaching training, career guidance, and even visa advising for international students, helping us develop soft skills. I think these are very important for our success, and I'm glad to see these invites each semester.

Yuandong Cyrus Liu

Ph.D. in Computer Science

My future career objective is to secure a tenure track professorship. At Stevens, I am fortunate to have access to numerous teaching opportunities that will enhance my pedagogical skills. Additionally, the institution is dedicated to cultivating my abilities as an independent researcher, thereby equipping me with the necessary tools to excel in academia.

Yuchen Zhang

Computer Science Graduate

Stevens had a great location and I enjoyed living there for my Ph.D. I liked the research opportunities that it offered and the academic atmosphere. I had many great resources for studying and gained a lot of experience in presentation skills, which facilitated my career development.

Songgaojun Deng

Computer Science Ph.D. Graduate

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UW-Milwaukee Academic Catalog

Computer science.

Computer Science, PhD

The Doctor of Philosophy, the highest degree offered by the University, is conferred in recognition of marked scholarship in a broad field of knowledge as well as distinguished critical or creative achievement within a special area of the general field (the special area being the subject of the doctoral dissertation). The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science program in the College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) is designed to meet the traditional high standards for such programs. The PhD in Computer Science is administered by the division of Computer Science in the department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Some aspects of the program are delegated to the CEAS Graduate Office.

The program is flexible, allowing the student to develop a plan of studies tailored to meet individual needs. Evaluation of the study plan is based on its appropriateness as a computer science program, the availability within the University of appropriate course offerings, and the availability within the division of Computer Science of a faculty member who is qualified to serve as the student’s major professor.

The PhD degree requires a minimum of 66 credits beyond the baccalaureate, including a dissertation. The student must also satisfy a residence requirement.

Many of the courses leading toward graduate degrees in CEAS are offered in the late afternoon or evening. So, students can complete much of their coursework on a part-time basis.

Admission Requirements

Credits and courses, additional requirements, application deadlines.

Application deadlines vary by program, please review the application deadline chart for specific programs. Other important dates and deadlines can be found by using the One Stop calendars .

An applicant must meet  Graduate School requirements  plus these program requirements to be considered for admission to the program:

• Applicants holding a MS degree in computer science will generally be admitted without deficiencies. Applicants holding a BS degree in computer science may be admitted only if they are exceptionally strong, such as with a record including successful completion of courses normally taken at the graduate level in computer science.
• Applicants holding MS degrees from domains outside of computer science may be admitted with specific program-defined course deficiencies, provided that the deficiencies amount to no more than two courses. The student is expected to satisfy deficiency requirements within three enrolled semesters. The deficiencies are monitored by the Graduate School and the division of Computer Science. No course credits earned in making up deficiencies may be counted as program credits required for the degree. The mathematics preparation must generally include mathematics equivalent to MATH 231 . Otherwise, the made-up deficiencies must be sufficient to assure that the applicant is able to proceed with advanced work directed toward the doctoral degree.
• A minimum grade point average of 3.0 on the basis of 4.0, in the highest degree granted. An applicant with a master’s degree in engineering or computer science having a GPA of less than 3.0, but at least equal to 2.75, may be admitted if substantial evidence can be submitted demonstrating that the applicant has the capacity to perform satisfactory doctoral work.
• All applicants are required to submit a brief (1 or 2 page) statement describing their professional goals and at least two letters of reference.
• The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required for all international and domestic applicants.
• International students require proof of English language proficiency. Complete information is available at the  UWM Center for International Education .
• Applicants with a relevant master’s degree who intend to complete an additional master’s in Computer Science at UWM should announce their plans at the time of admission, and not later than the start of their second year into the PhD program.

Reapplication

A student who receives a master’s degree at UWM must formally apply for admission to the Graduate School as a doctoral student before continuing studies that will be credited toward the Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science.

The minimum degree requirement is 66 graduate credits beyond the bachelor’s degree. The minimum credit  distribution of coursework to be undertaken must be as follows depending on the option selected.

The 6-credit requirement in mathematics and/or quantitative methods may be met by satisfactorily completing certain courses specified by the Department or by taking the minor in mathematics. When such courses also count for either the major or the minor area, the remaining credits may be taken as approved electives.

The student must achieve a 3.0 GPA separately in each of the following areas: the major area, the minor area, and the quantitative methods area.

The minor is normally in another area offered in the College or in the physical sciences or mathematics or in management sciences. Consideration of any other area as a minor requires the prior approval of the Department.

A minimum of 26 credits, excluding doctoral thesis, must be at the 700 level or higher.

Major Professor as Advisor

The Graduate School requires that the student must have a major professor to advise, supervise, and approve the program of study before registering for courses. The incoming student will be assigned to an initial Program Advisor at the time of admission. Prior to the completion of 12 credits (9 credits for part-time students), the student must select a major professor who will be the student’s thesis advisor. The student, in consultation with the major professor, develops a proposed program of studies which is submitted for approval. For subsequent changes, the student must file a revised program of study for approval.

Foreign Language

There is no foreign language requirement for the degree.

The program residence requirement is satisfied either by completing 8 or more graduate credits in two consecutive semesters, exclusive of summer sessions, or by completing 6 or more graduate credits in each of three consecutive semesters, exclusive of summer sessions.

Qualifying Examination

Each student in the program must take and pass a Qualifying Examination to demonstrate that the student is qualified for doctoral-level work. The Qualifying Examination is a written exam and is structured in two parts: Part 1 and Part 2. The examination is offered twice a year during the regular academic year. 

Students entering with only a bachelor’s degree or with a master’s degree in an area unrelated to their major may take the Qualifying Examination for the first time after earning 12 credits of graduate work at UWM and must successfully pass the exam before earning 30 credits of graduate work at UWM.

Students admitted after completing an appropriate master’s degree must take this examination no later than the semester immediately after 18 credits of graduate work have been earned at UWM.

A student may take the Qualifying Examination twice. On the first attempt, the student must attempt both Part 1 and Part 2 of the examination.

• If the student passes both parts, then the student has passed the entire examination and will be permitted to proceed toward the Doctor of Philosophy degree.
• If the student fails both parts, then the student must take the entire exam again at its next offering.
• If a student passes only one of the two parts, then the student must take the examination again at its next offering, but may choose to take only the part of the examination that was not passed on the first attempt.
• If a passing grade is not obtained on the second attempt of the Qualifying Examination, the student will not be permitted to proceed toward the Doctor of Philosophy degree.

A student who fails the qualifying exam twice is subject to dismissal from the PhD in Computer Science program. A student may appeal the failure and dismissal within 30 days of being notified of the failure. If the student does not appeal or the appeal is not granted, the College will recommend to the Graduate School that the student be dismissed. A student who is dismissed from the PhD in Computer Science program because of failing the qualifying exam may not be enrolled in the PhD in Computer Science program for a complete calendar year. This does not preclude the student from being enrolled in any other degree program offered by the University. A student who wishes to re-enroll in the program after a calendar year has passed must apply as any other student would, including payment of fees. A student readmitted after having failed the qualifying exam twice must take the qualifying exam in the first semester of matriculation and this will count as the student’s first attempt at the exam. The student may appeal this requirement prior to the first scheduled day of classes. If the student fails the qualifying exam on this first attempt, the student is permitted the customary second attempt as described above. All appeals must be in writing and directed to the CEAS Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.

Doctoral Program Committee

The Doctoral Program Committee is proposed by the major professor in consultation with the student and the department. The Committee must include at least five graduate faculty (three from major area, one from minor area, and one from any area, including the major and minor areas). The last member may be a person from outside the University (such as another university, a research laboratory, or a relevant industrial partner), provided that person meets Graduate School requirements. The Committee may have more than five members, provided that the majority of the Committee members are from the student’s major field.

Doctoral Preliminary Examination

A student is admitted to candidacy only after successful completion of the doctoral preliminary examination conducted by the Doctoral Program Committee. This examination, which normally is oral, must be taken before the completion of 48 credits of graduate work toward the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Computer Science and should be taken within the first seven years in the program. Prior to the examination, the student must present a proposal for a doctoral dissertation project. The examination may cover both graduate course material and items related to the proposed dissertation project.

Dissertation and Dissertator Status

The student must carry out a creative effort in the major area under the supervision of the major professor and report the results in an acceptable dissertation. The effort of the student and the major professor to produce the dissertation is reflected in the PhD in Computer Science program requirement that the student complete at least 18 credits of doctoral thesis. 

After the student has successfully completed all degree requirements except the dissertation, the student may enter Dissertator Status. Achieving Dissertator Status requires successful completion of the Doctoral Preliminary Examination and prior approval of the student’s advisor, the Doctoral Program Committee, and the Computer Science GPR of a dissertation proposal that outlines the scope of the project, the research method, and the goals to be achieved. Any proposal that may involve a financial commitment by the University also must be approved by the Office of the Dean. After having achieved Dissertator Status, the student must continue to register for 3 credits of doctoral thesis per semester during the academic year until the dissertation is completed.

Dissertation Defense

The final examination, which is oral, consists of a defense of the dissertation project. The doctoral defense examination may only be taken after all coursework and other requirements have been completed. The student must have Dissertator Status at the time of the defense.

All degree requirements must be completed within ten years from the date of initial enrollment in the doctoral program.

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Admission Steps

Computer science - phd, admission requirements.

Terms and Deadlines

Degree and GPA Requirements

Prerequisites

Additional standards for non-native english speakers, additional standards for international applicants.

For the 2025-2026 academic year

See 2024-2025 requirements instead

Fall 2025 quarter (beginning in September)

Priority deadline: February 14, 2025

Final submission deadline: June 16, 2025

International submission deadline: May 5, 2025

Winter 2026 quarter (beginning in January)

Final submission deadline: November 4, 2025

International submission deadline: September 8, 2025

Spring 2026 quarter (beginning in March)

Final submission deadline: February 3, 2026

International submission deadline: December 8, 2025

Summer 2026 quarter (beginning in June)

Final submission deadline: May 4, 2026

International submission deadline: February 23, 2026

Priority deadline: Applications will be considered after the Priority deadline provided space is available.

Final submission deadline: Applicants cannot submit applications after the final submission deadline.

Degrees and GPA Requirements

Bachelors degree: All graduate applicants must hold an earned baccalaureate from a regionally accredited college or university or the recognized equivalent from an international institution.

University GPA requirement: The minimum grade point average for admission consideration for graduate study at the University of Denver must meet one of the following criteria:

A cumulative 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the baccalaureate degree.

A cumulative 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the last 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits (approximately two years of work) for the baccalaureate degree.

An earned master’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution or the recognized equivalent from an international institution supersedes the minimum GPA requirement for the baccalaureate.

A cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for all graduate coursework completed for applicants who have not earned a master’s degree or higher.

Prerequisite courses for the PhD include: COMP 1671 Introduction to Computer Science I, COMP 1672 Introduction to Computer Science II, COMP 2673 Introduction to Computer Science III, COMP 2300 Discrete Structures in Computer Science, COMP 2370 Introduction to Algorithms & Data Structures, and COMP 2691 Introduction to Computer Organization (or equivalent).

Official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), C1 Advanced or Duolingo English Test are required of all graduate applicants, regardless of citizenship status, whose native language is not English or who have been educated in countries where English is not the native language. Your TOEFL/IELTS/C1 Advanced/Duolingo English Test scores are valid for two years from the test date.

The minimum TOEFL/IELTS/C1 Advanced/Duolingo English Test score requirements for this degree program are:

Minimum TOEFL Score (Internet-based test): 80

Minimum IELTS Score: 6.5

Minimum C1 Advanced Score: 176

Minimum Duolingo English Test Score: 115

Additional Information:

Read the English Language Proficiency policy for more details.

Read the Required Tests for GTA Eligibility policy for more details.

Per Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) regulation, international applicants must meet all standards for admission before an I-20 or DS-2019 is issued, [per U.S. Federal Register: 8 CFR § 214.3(k)] or is academically eligible for admission and is admitted [per 22 C.F.R. §62]. Read the Additional Standards For International Applicants policy for more details.

Application Materials

Transcripts, letters of recommendation.

Required Essays and Statements

We require a scanned copy of your transcripts from every college or university you have attended. Scanned copies must be clearly legible and sized to print on standard 8½-by-11-inch paper. Transcripts that do not show degrees awarded must also be accompanied by a scanned copy of the diploma or degree certificate. If your academic transcripts were issued in a language other than English, both the original documents and certified English translations are required.

Transcripts and proof of degree documents for postsecondary degrees earned from institutions outside of the United States will be released to a third-party international credential evaluator to assess U.S. education system equivalencies. Beginning July 2023, a non-refundable fee for this service will be required before the application is processed.

Upon admission to the University of Denver, official transcripts will be required from each institution attended.

Three (3) letters of recommendation are required.  Letters should be submitted by recommenders through the online application.

Essays and Statements

Personal statement instructions.

A personal statement of at least 300 words is required. Your statement should include information concerning your life, education, experiences, interests and reason for applying to DU.

Résumé Instructions

The résumé (or C.V.) should include work experience, research, and/or volunteer work.

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Financial Aid Information

Start your application.

Your submitted materials will be reviewed once all materials and application fees have been received.

Our program can only consider your application for admission if our Office of Graduate Education has received all your online materials and supplemental materials by our application deadline.

Application Fee: $65.00 Application Fee

International Degree Evaluation Fee: $50.00 Evaluation Fee for degrees (bachelor's or higher) earned from institutions outside the United States.

Applicants should complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 15. Visit the Office of Financial Aid for additional information.

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Computer Science (PhD)

Empower your future with Dalhousie's PhD in Computer Science, combining groundbreaking research with real-world applications.

Why choose this program?

Choosing Dalhousie's PhD in Computer Science offers benefits such as access to world-class research facilities, collaboration with leading experts, and opportunities for interdisciplinary projects.

The program emphasizes innovation, practical experience, and strong industry connections, preparing students for advanced careers in academia, research, and industry.

By the time you've completed your degree, you will be ready for a career in industry, or within an academic setting.

Possible careers include:

Computer science professor 

Researcher in industrial or government lap

Chief Technical Officer

CEO of your own start-up 

Admission requirements

You'll need to meet the  Faculty of Graduate Studies minimum requirements  as well as any program-specific admissions requirements before you can apply.

Financial information

At Dalhousie, we want our students to focus on their studies, rather than worry about their personal finances. We offer competitive tuition rates and funding programs to support graduate students in almost all of our degree programs.

Program options

Thesis : Conduct innovative and important research supervised by an expert in your field, culminating in an original thesis.

Standard program duration:

5 years or longer

Enrolment options:

Delivery format:.

All graduate programs at Dalhousie are collaboratively delivered by a home Faculty and the  Faculty of Graduate Studies .

Contact an admissions advisor

Questions about admissions or the application process get in touch with the program..

Email:  [email protected]

I'm ready to apply!

While every effort is made to ensure accuracy on this page, in the event of a discrepancy,  Dalhousie's Academic Calendars  are the official reference.

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MSCS Admissions

Admission requirements:   .

• Satisfy  university requirements for graduate admission    
• Hold a bachelor's degree in computer engineering or computer science or have sufficient background in computer engineering or computer science from a college or university with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.7 in the last 60 semester or 90 quarter upper-division major units attempted.   
• The general Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required.  

PhD Programme in Data Science

Admission requirements.

Applicants seeking admission to the PhD programme should satisfy the following minimum entrance requirements.

be a current MPhil student in the University who is seeking transfer to a PhD programme; or hold a higher research degree (or equivalent qualification) from a recognised university; or hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent qualification) from a recognised university; or hold a Bachelor’s degree with first-class honours (or equivalent qualification) from a recognised university.

English Proficiency Requirements

Applicants from an institution where the language of teaching is not English should satisfy the minimum English proficiency requirements as follows:

• a minimum TOEFL total score of 550 (paper-based test) or 79 (Internet-based test); or 59 (revised Paper-delivered test); or
• a minimum overall band score of 6.5 in IELTS; or
• other test scores that may be regarded as equivalent to TOEFL 550 (paper-based test) or 79 (Internet-based test); or 59 (revised Paper-delivered test).

College English Test (CET) is  NOT  accepted as an equivalent English proficiency test for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS).  For applicants with strong academic and research potential who have only taken CET-6 with a minimum score of 490, special consideration may be made on a case-by-case basis during normal round admission. 

Applications for the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) programme are not considered.

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (2024/25)

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme , established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of the HKSAR government, aims to recruit the brightest students in the world to pursue their PhD studies in Hong Kong. 300 PhD Fellowships will be awarded in the 2024/25 academic year. While academic excellence is the primary consideration, applicants should demonstrate research ability/potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities. The result of the HKPFS 2024/25 will be announced in April/May 2024 by RGC.

The Fellowship awardee will receive:

• an annual stipend of HK$331,200 (~US$42,460).
• conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$13,800 (~US$1,760) per year for a maximum of three years.
• Chow Yei Ching School of Graduate Studies Entrance Scholarships around HK$89,496 (~US $11,473) which covers student's full-time tuition fees and on-campus hostel accommodation expenses in the 1st year of research studies.

For Fellowship awardees who are admitted to a 4-year PhD programme, CityU will provide a monthly studentship at the same level as the RGC Fellowship for their fourth year of study.

Click here to download leaflet

How to Apply

1.  Getting Started Select area of interest, contact  potential supervisor  and seek consent Observe application deadlines

2.  Prepare Take required tests before application deadline Prepare supporting documents (example: transcript, research proposal) Academic referee reports

3.  Apply Apply Now   (You are required to list all post-secondary institutions you have attended.)

• Submit initial application as early as possible to ensure that you have sufficient time to submit application to CityU.
• Applications which are not selected for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme will be considered as normal applications.

Application Timeline

Supporting Documents

Remarks: Hard copies of the documents are required for further verification only if you are given an offer. Documents which are not in English should be accompanied by a formally translated version in English.

Selection Criteria

While the academic excellence is of prime consideration, the Review Panels will take into account, but not limited to, the following yardsticks for the selection of candidates:

• Academic excellence;
• Research ability and potential;
• Cultural diversity;
• Communication and interpersonal skills;
• Leadership abilities and societal responsibility;
• Institutional support.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to admission interview (either face-to-face or via online means e.g. Zoom, Skype, etc.).

Programme Structure

1) Coursework Plan To be eligible to be awarded an MPhil/PhD degree, students are required to complete the following coursework requirements and to submit a thesis. MPhil: 7 credit units (including at least 2 credit units of research methodology and ethics course at postgraduate level); --> PhD: 20 credit units (including at least 9 credit units of core courses and at least 2 credit units of research methodology and ethics course at postgraduate level) And 1 credit unit compulsory course: Teaching Students: First Steps (SG8001). Individual students with insufficient English proficiency may be required to take a 1 credit unit course English as Medium for Instruction (SG8002) before they are allowed to enrol in SG8001. The credit unit earned from SG8001 will not be counted towards the minimum coursework requirement. And Training on Research Integrity (CITI Programme) .

Please refer to the programme requirements for PhD in Data Science at http://www.cityu.edu.hk/catalogue/pg/202324/programme/DS_P.htm. https://www.cityu.edu.hk/catalogue/pg/202223/programme/DS_M.htm . --> 2) Credit Transfer and Exemption Students who possess postgraduate qualifications of relevance to their research studies may apply for credit transfer or coursework exemption. At least half the coursework (4 credit units for MPhil and 7 for PhD) should be taken at CityU or other local institutions recognised under the Cross-institutional Course Enrolment Scheme. Credit transfer/coursework exemption should be limited to a maximum of 3 credit units for MPhil and 7 for PhD. Recommendations on credit transfer/coursework exemption require the approval of the School Dean.

3) Cross-departmental Course Registration Students who wish to take courses offered by Departments/Schools outside their host School should obtain approval from the offering Department/School before submitting the Form SGS16A/SGS16B to their host School for endorsement and approval. A list of approved courses and the syllabi are available for reference on the  Chow Yei Ching School of Graduate Studies (SGS)  website.

Scholarship and Funding

Chow Yei Ching School of Graduate Studies Entrance Scholarships  (Applicable to government-funded students only)

CityU offers Chow Yei Ching School of Graduate Studies Entrance Scholarships to encourage outstanding international students to undertake MPhil or PhD studies at the University with a view to promoting academic exchange and enhancing the international mix of the University’s student population.

The Scholarship covers students’ tuition fees and on-campus hostel accommodation expenses in their first year of their research studies (equivalent to approximately HK$89,496 (~US$11,474)). If granted a Scholarship, the above-mentioned expenses will be off-set by the award.

Tuition Waiver for Local Research Postgraduate (RPg) Students

The University Grants Committee (UGC) has introduced a ‘Tuition Waiver Scheme’ (‘The Scheme’) for all local students enrolled in full-time UGC-funded Research Postgraduate (RPg) programmes in local institutions, to cover their tuition fees with effect from the academic year 2018-19 (i.e. from July 1, 2018).

This Scheme provides non-means-tested funding to all current and new local students from all disciplines of study enrolled in full-time UGC-funded RPg programmes. Eligible students do not need to apply for the Scheme.

For more information of Tuition Waiver Scheme for Local Research Postgraduate Students, please refer to  http://www.ugc.edu.hk/eng/rgc/funding_opport/tws.html

For the full list of scholarships and financial aid, please visit  https://www.cityu.edu.hk/pg/research-degree-programmes/scholarships-financial-aid-and-fees .

Tuition/Continuation Fees

(normally adjusted in September every year)

Potential Supervisors: Potential applicants are encouraged to contact a  potential supervisor  prior to submitting an application to our University, though it is not compulsory.

Research Degree Coordinator: Professor Qi WU

General Enquiries: Tel: 3442 7887 Email:  [email protected]

Computer Science, Master of Science

School of Informatics, Computing and Cyber Systems

College of Engineering, Informatics, and Applied Sciences

Computer scientists develop complex software and computer systems that are central to contemporary science, engineering, industry, and business. The MS in Computer Science enables students to either enter the computer science workforce or continue on to a doctoral program of study.   Individual and team-based assignments will enable students to build mastery of important computer science skills and their practical applications in areas that include computer networks, computer graphics and visualization, high-performance computing, cybersecurity, machine learning and data science, software engineering, software design and architecture, and software validation and verification. In addition, you will have the opportunity to engage in critical application areas of computer science in areas that include biology, ecology, and astronomy.   The non-thesis option of this program allows students to complete their degree through coursework, while the thesis option is focused on engagement with research projects under the mentorship of a faculty member and culminating in the preparation and defense of a thesis.   The program is strengthened through broad collaborations with a variety of other academic programs, government agencies, and private research organizations, including the departments of Biological Sciences and Astronomy and Planetary Science, Center for Bioengineering Innovation, Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Center for Ecosystem Science and Society, Merriam-Powell Center for Environmental Research, and U.S. Geological Survey.  

University Requirements

To receive a master’s degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject areas, consisting of at least 30 units of graduate-level courses. Many master’s degree programs require more than 30 units. You must additionally complete:

• All requirements for your specific academic plan(s). This may include a thesis.
• All graduate work with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0.
• All work toward the master's degree must be completed within six consecutive years. The six years begins with the semester and year of admission to the program.

Read the full policy here .

In addition to University Requirements:

• Complete individual plan requirements.

Purpose Statement This MS in Computer Science will prepare you to either enter the computer science workforce or continue on to a doctoral program of study, building core skills that are widely applicable to many areas of science, engineering, industry, business, and research. This degree is flexible and allows students to develop a customized program of study that is highly aligned with their professional or research interests. Available coursework allows students to study in many areas of computer science, including computer networking, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and software architecture and testing. While all students will be expected to contribute to a substantive computer science development or research project under the mentorship of a faculty member during the course of their study, thesis option students will have additional opportunities to engage in computer science research and scholarship and prepare a thesis. This program is designed for students with strong preparation in programming and computer science, gained through successful completion of an undergraduate computer science program or other professional experience. The non-thesis option of the program is designed for students seeking professional preparation, while the thesis option is particularly appropriate for students for considering further graduate study in a doctoral program. As a graduate, you will be prepared to contribute in a wide variety of core computer science areas in both academia or professional practice, including computer networks, computer graphics and visualization, high-performance computing, cybersecurity, machine learning and data science, software engineering, software design and architecture, and software validation and verification. In addition, you will have the opportunity to engage in critical application areas of computer science in areas that include biology, ecology, and astronomy. Student Learning Outcomes Graduates of this program will demonstrate the following competencies and program learning outcomes:

• Identify, explain, and synthesize fundamental concepts of computer science, including computer networking, cybersecurity, high-performance computing, and software engineering.
• Analyze and critically distill scientific literature to identify computer science theories and development and research methods appropriate to relevant science and engineering problems and research areas.
• Apply computer science theories and development and research methods to formulate, develop, and assess computer system solutions to relevant science and engineering problems and research areas.
• Compose and engage in highly effective written and oral communication in computer science areas.

Graduate Admission Information

The NAU graduate online application is required for all programs. Admission to many graduate programs is on a competitive basis, and programs may have higher standards than those established by the Graduate College. Admission requirements include the following:

• Transcripts.
• Undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution with a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale ("A" = 4.0), or the equivalent.

Visit the NAU Graduate Admissions website for additional information about graduate school application deadlines, eligibility for study, and admissions policies. Ready to apply? Begin your application now.

International applicants have additional admission requirements. Please see the International Graduate Admissions Policy .

Additional Admission Requirements

Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.

• A Bachelor degree in Computer Science or a related field.
• Personal statement outlining the prospective student's professional goals in computer science and an indication of interest in either the thesis of non-thesis option.
• Two letters of recommendation from recommenders who are familiar with the prospective student's computer science qualifications.
• Computer Science Milestone. Students must pass the Initial Skills Inventory Exam, or complete Prerequisite: Graduate Status">CS 500 and Prerequisite: Graduate Status">CS 501 before enrolling in graduate-level CS courses. See the department website for details.

Master's Requirements

This Master’s degree requires 30 units distributed as follows:

• Computer Science Coursework: 3 units
• Non-Thesis Option
• Thesis Option
• Thesis Option with Research

Take the following 30 units:

Computer Science Coursework (3 units)

• Prerequisite: Graduate status, and Computer Science MS Milestone">CS 552
• Prerequisite: Graduate status, INF 502">INF 503

Non-Thesis or Thesis Option - Select one (27 units)

Non-Thesis Option (27 units)

• Graduate-level coursework with at least 15 of the units in CS courses except Prerequisite: Graduate Status">CS 500 AND Prerequisite: Graduate Status">CS 501 .
• Students may use a maximum of two courses, up to 6 units, of CS prefixed 400-level courses to satisfy a portion of the elective requirements.

Students selecting a non-thesis/coursework/track option must complete 24 units of formal letter-graded coursework.

Students are responsible for ensuring that they meet all course prerequisites.

Thesis Options (27 units)

• CS 699 (12 units)
• CS 685 (3 units)
• CS 699 (9 units)
• Graduate-level coursework with at least 9 of the 15 units in CS courses except Prerequisite: Graduate Status">CS 500 AND Prerequisite: Graduate Status">CS 501 .

Students selecting the thesis option are required to complete 18 units of formal letter-graded course work. No 400-level coursework may apply toward this requirement.

Thesis option students are responsible for selecting a research advisor who will act as their thesis committee chair as well as other members of their thesis committee before completing 9 units of coursework in the degree program.

Thesis option students must successfully complete a thesis and thesis final defense and are responsible for following all applicable NAU conditions as stated in the Requirements for Theses and Dissertations Policy (100806).

Students enrolled in this plan may not enroll in or pursue the following due to the number of overlapping units:

• Informatics , MS

Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's Program

This program is available as an Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Plan wherein a student may start a master's degree while simultaneously completing their bachelor's degree.

Students enrolled at the Flagstaff campus for both undergraduate and graduate programs are eligible to complete the Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering and start a Master of Science in Computer Science - Non-thesis at NAU. OR Students enrolled at the Flagstaff campus for both undergraduate and graduate programs are eligible to complete the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and start a Master of Science in Computer Science - Non-thesis at NAU. OR Students enrolled at the Flagstaff campus for both undergraduate and graduate programs are eligible to complete the Bachelor of Science in Immersive Media and Games and start a Master of Science in Computer Science - Non-thesis at NAU. OR Students enrolled at the Flagstaff campus for both undergraduate and graduate programs are eligible to complete the Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering and start a Master of Science in Computer Science - Non-thesis at NAU.

• Students must apply to the master's program by the graduate program's application deadline, meet all admissions requirements listed in the policy Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's Programs , as well as the admissions requirements for the specified master's plan to be considered for admission. Admission to programs is competitive and qualified applicants may be denied because of limits on the number of students admitted each year. Be sure to speak with the Master's Program Director/Coordinator regarding your interest in the accelerated plan.

Students accepted into one of the Accelerated Programs should complete the appropriate requirements below.

• Students in the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering , Bachelor of Science in Immersive Media and Games , or Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering to Master's program complete the following requirements:
• Non-Thesis Option: 27 units
• 400-level CS or IMG coursework (6 units)
• Graduate-level coursework with at least 15 of the units in CS courses except Prerequisite: Graduate Status">CS 500 AND Prerequisite: Graduate Status">CS 501 . (21 units)

Students selecting a non-thesis/coursework/track option must complete 24 units of formal letter-graded coursework. Students are responsible for ensuring that they meet all course prerequisites.

• Students in the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Computer Science to Master's program complete the following requirements:

Additional Information

Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.

• Program Fee Information

Program fees are established by the Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR). A program fee has been approved for this program. See program fee details . Program fees are subject to change and updated July 1 for the next academic year.

Campus Availability

285 Old Westport Road • Dartmouth, MA 02747-2300 508.999.8000 FACEBOOK TWITTER INSTAGRAM YOUTUBE LINKED IN myUMassD Support UMassD Directory Apply Visit Request Info Check Application Status
	UMass Dartmouth
	Sep 04, 2024   2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog     2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog This fast-track program enables well-qualified BS degree students in Computer Science to complete both the BS and the MS with nine fewer credits than if taken separately. Students will take three graduate courses as their CIS BS-degree technical electives. Students electing the BS/MS program are required to complete a Master’s thesis. Eligibility Current undergraduate Computer Science students (including transfer students) who are in progress towards completing their first bachelor’s degree are eligible to apply if they: have completed 60 credits towards the BS degree; have not taken and are not currently enrolled in more than one senior-level (400-level) or any graduate (500-level or above) course; have completed courses CIS 180, 181, 190, 272, 273, and 280 (or equivalents for transfer students); have a GPA of at least 3.000 in all CIS courses taken at the time of application; have completed MTH 181, MTH 182 and MTH 151/153, MTH 152/154 (or the equivalents for transfer students) with a GPA of at least 2.800. Those interested should consult with the Computer Science Graduate Program Director or the Chairperson about their eligibility. Students apply for admission to the BS/MS program through the Office of Graduate Studies, submitting the regular graduate application with clear indication on the form that the applicant will be a BS/MS student and select the time of admission as when the applicant would normally begin a master’s degree, after meeting all BS graduation conditions. Applicants to the BS/MS program do not need to submit GRE score, TOEFL score, or recommendation letters. Application decisions are reviewed by the CIS Graduate Committee. Progression to MS Study The BS degree is conferred when all undergraduate requirements have been successfully completed, including the three graduate courses as senior electives. At this time, the BS/MS student’s status changes to graduate level. BS/MS students will pay undergraduate rates until changed to graduate status; in graduate status they may be considered for graduate assistantships. Maintaining MS Status The department has determined a specific policy to monitor BS/MS students’ performance and progression towards their BS and then MS degrees. Any student accepted to the BS/MS program but later dismissed from the program will be transferred back to the BS level program. Obtaining MS Degree BS/MS students follow the same requirements to obtain the MS degree as regular MS students in the thesis track. 141 IMAGES Computer Science Assumption University IGNOU PhD in Computer Science Admission 2024 PHD Computer Science Program: 1. Admission Criteria asu computer science admission requirements Admission Requirements Ph.D. Degree Requirements VIDEO Computer Science Engineering Get your PhD while doing a Job! 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Ph.D. Requirements For Ph.D. students in Computer Science, the Field requires one of these to be external to Computer Science and one to be internal. The external minor must be in a field other than CS. The minor requirements are up to the minor field. Related fields such as Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, Cognitive Science or Electrical and Computer ... Ph.D. Application Requirements Step 4 - The Computer Science Graduate Admissions Committee will review applications and recommend applicants for admission, waitlist, or denial. Applicants recommended for admission will begin the process of selecting a major professor. A major professor match must be made before an admission offer can be made. PhD This includes a cumulative list of requirements to be completed in order for students to confer their PhD degree in Computer Science. For any questions related to CS PhD milestone requirements, please email [email protected] . Form/s should be submitted as a PDF and emailed to [email protected]. 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 ... School of Computing Admission to the Ph.D. program in Computer Science and Engineering is normally open only to those students possessing an M.S. in Computer Science, Computer Science and Engineering, or Computer Engineering. Students with no previous graduate degree can be considered for direct admission into the Ph.D. program (bypassing the M.S.) if they have ... Ph.D. in Computer Science Ph.D. in Computer Science. The Ph.D. degree culminates with the student writing and defending a dissertation based on the result of independent, original research that makes a significant scholarly contribution to the student's field of study. Please visit the UVA Graduate Record webpage for Ph.D. degree requirements. Admissions A small number of highly qualified students are admitted each year to the PhD Program in Computer Science. Admission is very competitive, based primarily on research-oriented reference letters, academic grades, and overall experience and record. Applicants need not already hold a master's degree; bachelor's degree-level applicants are also ... Admissions Requirements Admissions Requirements. Please read this information carefully as you prepare to apply. Admission to Princeton is for the Fall Semester only. We do not offer evening, weekend, or summer courses. Further information can also be found at the Office of Graduate Admission site and on our FAQ page. 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The program is available for those of high ability who seek to develop and implement their own research studies. Students pursuing the doctorate in computer science learn to analyze ... PhD in Computer Science Information about applying to the PhD program including applications requirements , admissions information , admissions FAQs, and funding information can be found on the Guarini School of Advanced and Graduate Studies website. PhD in Computer Science is a postgraduate degree for those who want to pursue a research career in computer science. PhD Requirements PhD students may be awarded a master's degree after completing all of the MS degree requirements and applying for graduation. PhD students must earn a minimum grade of B- and an overall GPA of 3.5 in the six courses they use to satisfy the breadth and depth requirements. Electives. PhD students must take an additional 24 credits of graduate ... 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 ... Graduate Program Normally a student admitted for graduate study is expected to have completed a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering, science, or mathematics; a degree in computer science is not required. The application deadline for Fall 2025 is December 15, 2024 for all applicants. It is important that all materials reach the University by the ... Ph.D. CS Admissions Requirements The application deadline for the Ph.D. in Computer Science is December 15th. The basic requirements for admission to the program are as follows: General Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are optional. Recently, accepted applicant scores have averaged 80%, 90+%, 90+% respectively on the verbal, quantitative and analytical sections. Computer Science Ph.D. Requirements Admission Requirements. Master's degree, normally in an engineering or science related field with an overall graduate GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale), or a Bachelor's degree, normally in an engineering or science related field with an overall undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) and the Graduate Record Examination General Test. Computer Science Doctoral Program The following summarizes the major milestones in the CS PhD program. Admission to Ph.D. program: every enrollee is assigned an advisor; Attainment of status of Ph.D. student: Students with recognized MS degree (during their 1st semester in the program); ... Past Computer Science Doctoral Degree Requirements. Computer Science, PhD The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science program in the College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) is designed to meet the traditional high standards for such programs. ... An applicant must meet Graduate School requirements plus these program requirements to be considered for admission to the program: A bachelor's or master ... Computer Science, Ph.D. Graduate School Policy on Continuous Enrollment. Dissertation Requirements. The student must select a dissertation advisor and a dissertation committee. At least four members, including the dissertation advisor, must be from the faculty of the Department of Computer Science, and at least one member must be from outside the department. Computer Science Degrees and GPA Requirements Bachelors degree: All graduate applicants must hold an earned baccalaureate from a regionally accredited college or university or the recognized equivalent from an international institution. University GPA requirement: The minimum grade point average for admission consideration for graduate study at the University of Denver must meet one of the following criteria: Admission Requirements for a Computer Science PhD Common admission requirements for a PhD in Computer Science. Master's diploma: needs to be in Computer Science or a related field. Official transcript of records: documents with all your previous grades and exam results from high school, national examinations, Bachelor's or Master's degrees. Computer Science (PhD) Choosing Dalhousie's PhD in Computer Science offers benefits such as access to world-class research facilities, collaboration with leading experts, and opportunities for interdisciplinary projects. ... You'll need to meet the Faculty of Graduate Studies minimum requirements as well as any program-specific admissions requirements before you can ... MSCS Admissions Satisfy university requirements for graduate admission Hold a bachelor's degree in computer engineering or computer science or have sufficient background in computer engineering or computer science from a college or university with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.7 in the last 60 semester or 90 quarter upper-division major units attempted. PhD Programme in Data Science Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (2024/25) The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of the HKSAR government, aims to recruit the brightest students in the world to pursue their PhD studies in Hong Kong. 300 PhD Fellowships will be awarded in the 2024/25 academic year. While academic excellence is the ... Computer Science, Master of Science Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required. A Bachelor degree in Computer Science or a related field. Personal statement outlining the prospective student's professional goals in computer science and an indication of interest in either the thesis of non-thesis option. Program: BS/MS in Computer Science This fast-track program enables well-qualified BS degree students in Computer Science to complete both the BS and the MS with nine fewer credits than if taken separately. Students will take three graduate courses as their CIS BS-degree technical electives. Students electing the BS/MS program are required to complete a Master's thesis. Eligibility essay homework paper phd project resume review study thesis