how long does a computer science phd take

Computer Science Ph.D.

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Updated April 26, 2024 · 4 Min Read

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With the rising need for technical expertise, employers are increasingly including doctoral degrees in their minimum hiring requirements. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics  projects a 15.3% jump  in the number of jobs in CS requiring a doctorate degree by 2022.

An online Ph.D. in computer science proves a lucrative degree and allows for more independent, creative input into projects, along with more freedom to design products, implement change, and inspire students and employees. Employees with their doctorates tend to enjoy higher salaries and lower unemployment rates than those with lower-level degrees.

Earning a Ph.D. in computer science opens doors to high-level academic positions, and allows for more independent, design-based work.

Doctorate in Computer Science Overview

What is a doctorate in computer science.

A doctorate in computer science builds on prior knowledge, education, and experience in the field. The degree typically takes 4-5 years to complete, and involves independent study and research in a focused area of interest. Doctorate programs include coursework and research that culminate in a final dissertation.

How do I get a PhD in Computer Science?

To enter a Ph.D. program, you must hold at least a bachelor's degree in the field, though a master's degree is usually preferable. Doctorate applicants must also submit GRE scores and letters of recommendation.

Students who enter these programs generally want to enter highly specialized computer science fields or teach at the college level. They must demonstrate academic success in prior college programs, and a desire to learn more about a specific area of the industry through additional study and research.

• 72-90 credits

Computer science plays a role in virtually every field of industry. For this reason, Ph.D. programs are diverse, and many students pursue interdisciplinary degrees.

Students wishing to pursue a Ph.D. in computer science generally take 4-5 years to complete the degree, which usually requires 72-90 credits. Learners can devote their studies to general computer science or choose a specialty area, such as one of the following:

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Source: NCES

Average Annual Tuition for a PhD in Computer Science

Source:  CollegeBoard, 2017-18

Online Ph.D. in Computer Science

Online options for computer science doctorates continue to grow. Considering the nature of the material, it's no surprise computer science courses were among the first offered in an online format from prestigious institutions such as MIT and Stanford. Doctorate studies require independent work, which integrates well with the online learning format.

Advantage: Individualized Pacing

Online programs offer the advantage of working at your own pace. Because the research and dissertation process varies greatly by student, this format proves especially conducive for doctorate-level work.

Advantage: Growing Prestige of Online Programs

The  Taulbee Survey  estimates more than 1,834 graduates earned Ph.D.s in computer science in the 2016-17 academic year — more than ever before. This represents a 1.2% increase over the previous year. That said, the total number of doctoral degrees awarded in the 2016-17 academic year increased by 5.2% over the previous year.

Computer science courses represented some of the first offered online with the arrival of Massive Online Open Courses (MOOCs) and other open-access learning platforms, which became popular around 2012. Some of the nation's most prestigious universities, including Stanford, MIT, and Harvard, pioneered the MOOC industry. These universities now offer singular courses in computer science, many of which are free, through Coursera and other open-source platforms.

Specialization

Doctorate students should choose specialties they feel passionately about. Specialization options vary between doctoral programs, so prospective students should make sure their online program offers concentrations in their area of interest.

Courses in an Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Program

Required major courses vary by school, depending on each institution's resources and faculty. This makes each program unique. College and university faculty acquire specialty areas of study, and typically teach courses related to those topics. Required courses may also root in the school's longstanding traditions, based on department history and resources. Common courses for doctoral programs in computer science may include:

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CS PhD Course Guidelines

The following program guidelines (a.k.a model pogram) serve as a starting point for a discussion with the faculty about areas of interest.   This description of the Computer Science PhD course guidelines augments the school-wide  PhD course requirements .   Students should make themselves familiar with both.

Course Guidelines for Ph.D. Students in Computer Science

We expect students to obtain broad knowledge of computer science by taking graduate level courses in a variety of sub-areas in computer science, such as systems, networking, databases, algorithms, complexity, hardware, human-computer interaction, graphics, or programming languages.

Within our school, CS courses are roughly organized according to sub-area by their middle digit, so we expect students to take courses in a minimum of three distinct sub-areas, one of which should be theory (denoted by the middle digit of 2, or CS 231). Theory is specifically required as we expect all students to obtain some background in the mathematical foundations that underlie computer science. The intention is not only to give breadth to students, but to ensure cross-fertilization across different sub-disciplines in Computer Science.

Just as we expect all students obtaining a Ph.D. to have experience with the theoretical foundations of computer science, we expect all students to have some knowledge of how to build large software or hardware systems , on the order of thousands of lines of code, or the equivalent complexity in hardware. That experience may be evidenced by coursework or by a project submitted to the CHD for examination. In almost all cases a course numbered CS 26x or CS 24x will satisfy the requirement (exceptions will be noted in the course description on my.harvard). Students may also petition to use CS 161 for this requirement.   For projects in other courses, research projects, or projects done in internships the student is expected to write a note explaining the project, include a link to any relevant artifacts or outcomes, describe the student's individual contribution, and where appropriate obtain a note from their advisor, their class instructor, or their supervisors confirming their contributions.  The project must include learning about systems concepts, and not just writing many lines of code.   Students hoping to invoke the non-CS24x/26x/161 option must consult with  Prof. Mickens ,  Prof, Kung,  or  Prof. Idreos  well in advance of submitting their Program Plan to the CHD.  

Computer science is an applied science, with connections to many fields. Learning about and connecting computer science to other fields is a key part of an advanced education in computer science. These connections may introduce relevant background, or they may provide an outlet for developing new applications.

For example, mathematics courses may be appropriate for someone working in theory, linguistics courses may be appropriate for someone working in computational linguistics, economics courses may be appropriate for those working in algorithmic economics, electrical engineering courses may be appropriate for those working in circuit design, and design courses may be appropriate for someone working in user interfaces.

Requirements

The Graduate School of Arts & Sciences (GSAS) requires all Ph.D. students to complete 16 half-courses (“courses”, i.e., for 4 units of credit) to complete their degree. Of those 16 courses, a Ph.D. in Computer Science requires 10 letter-graded courses. (The remaining 6 courses are often 300-level research courses or other undergraduate or graduate coursework beyond the 10 required courses.)

The requirements for the 10 letter-graded courses are as follows:

• Of the 7 technical courses, at least 3 must be 200-level Computer Science courses, with 3 different middle digits (from the set 2,3,4,5,6,7,8), and with one of these three courses either having a middle digit of 2 or being CS 231 (i.e., a “theory” course).   Note that CS courses with a middle digit of 0 are valid technical courses, but do not contribute to the breadth requirement.
• At least 5 of the 8 disciplinary courses must be SEAS or SEAS-equivalent 200-level courses. A “SEAS equivalent” course is a course taught by a SEAS faculty member in another FAS department. 
• For any MIT course taken, the student must provide justification why the MIT course is necessary (i.e. SEAS does not offer the topic, the SEAS course has not been offered in recent years, etc.). MIT courses do not count as part of the 5 200-level SEAS/SEAS-equivalent courses. 
• 2 of the 10 courses must constitute an external minor (referred to as "breadth" courses in the SEAS “ Policies of the Committee on Higher Degrees [CHD] ”) in an area outside of computer science. These courses should be clearly related; generally, this will mean the two courses are in the same discipline, although this is not mandatory. These courses must be distinct from the 8 disciplinary courses referenced above.
• Students must demonstrate practical competence by building a large software or hardware system during the course of their graduate studies. This requirement will generally be met through a class project, but it can also be met through work done in the course of a summer internship, or in the course of research.
• In particular, for Computer Science graduate degrees, Applied Computation courses may be counted as 100-level courses, not 200-level courses.
• Up to 2 of the 10 courses can be 299r courses, but only 1 of the up to 2 allowed 299r courses can count toward the 8 disciplinary courses. 299r courses do not count toward the 5 200-level SEAS/SEAS-equivalent courses. If two 299r’s are taken, they can be with the same faculty but the topics must be sufficiently different.
• A maximum of 3 graduate-level transfer classes are allowed to count towards the 10 course requirement.
• All CS Ph.D. program plans must adhere to the SEAS-wide Ph.D. requirements, which are stated in the SEAS Policies of the Committee on Higher Degrees (CHD) . These SEAS-wide requirements are included in the items listed above, though students are encouraged to read the CHD document if there are questions, as the CHD document provides further explanation/detail on several of the items above.
• All program plans must be approved by the CHD. Exceptions to any of these requirements require a detailed written explanation of the reasoning for the exception from the student and the student’s research advisor. Exceptions can only be approved by the CHD, and generally exceptions will only be given for unusual circumstances specific to the student’s research program.

Requirement Notes

• Courses below the 100-level are not suitable for graduate credit.
• For students who were required to take it, CS 2091/2092 (formerly CS 290a/b or 290hfa/hfb may be included as one of the 10 courses but it does not count toward the 200-level CS or SEAS/SEAS-equivalent course requirements nor toward the SM en route to the PhD.

Your program plan  must always comply  with both our school's General Requirements, in addition to complying with the specific requirements for Computer Science. All program plans must be approved by the Committee on Higher Degrees [CHD]. Exceptions to the requirements can only be approved by the CHD, and generally will only be given for unusual circumstances specific to the student’s research program

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Online PhD in Computer Science Guide | Salary & Requirements 2024

Phd in computer science overview.

The field of computer science has seen exponential growth in the last decade as web-based apps and media platforms continue to grow. An online Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Computer Science prepares graduates for some of the highest-paying positions in the nation with technology firms of varying sizes.  

As industries continue to adopt digital technologies, the demand for graduates with postsecondary degrees in the field of computer science remains steady. Businesses like Google and Microsoft continue to hire web developers, coders, and other computer science specialists to manage their web-based platforms/services. 

What Is Computer Science?

As a computer science professional, your job is to: 

• Observe, listen to, and communicate with clients
• Python, HTML, Java, C++ and more
• Offer strategies to ensure the functionality of web-based platforms
• Collaborate with UX specialists to ensure website functionality 

Depending on the industry or client, computer science specialists may work in-house or be contracted externally. 

What Can I Do With An Online PhD in Computer Science?

There are many viable career options for professionals with an online PhD in Computer Science. At tech corporations, start-ups, and in higher education, computer science professionals:

• Develop software
• Maintain data systems 
• Teach students coding theory
• Complete programmatic updates
• Maintain server security

Professionals with an online PhD in Computer Science provide in-demand services that continue to increase in value as countless entities adopt web-based platforms for business and internal use. 

Others who graduate with a PhD in Computer Science end up working in academia as a PhD satisfies minimum requirements for many colleges and universities. 

PhD in Computer Science Salaries and Career Outlook

Graduates with a PhD in Computer Science may pursue careers as:

• College Professors
• Computer Science Specialists
• Database Managers
• Research & Development 

Job growth in the computer science career field can vary depending on the position, and graduates should note that these statistics are reflections of the current job market that can fluctuate over time. 

Computer Science PhD Career Paths 

• Median Salary: $85,540 
• Career Outlook: +7% (2020-2030)

Professors that teach computer science at the university level conduct courses in coding, software design, and database management.

• Median Salary: $126,830 
• Career Outlook: +22% (2020-2030)

Professionals in this field to develop new software and improve on existing platforms to improve user experience and efficiency.

• Median Salary: $116,780 
• Career Outlook: +5% (2020-2030)

Network architects help organizations manage their local-area networks and wide-area networks.

• Median Salary: $110,140 

Software developers create computer programs/applications and work closely with UX specialists to provide iterative updates that address bugs/create efficiencies. 

Source: BLS

Earning A PhD in Computer Science

An online PhD in Computer Science typically takes between 4-5 years to complete. It’s always smart to research in-person and online formats to find the program that fits your schedule. 

Aspiring PhD students should consider admissions requirements, areas of specialization, and cost to ensure the program they choose fits their goals and lifestyle.

Pros And Cons Of PhD in Computer Science

Time, cost, and job placement are important factors to review when looking for a PhD program. Compared to a master’s degree in computer science, a PhD in Computer Science allows graduate students to gain access to higher-paying, upper-level positions in the tech and academic fields.

Due to the flexibility offered with an online program, doctoral students have the opportunity to complete their degree with sometimes little to no impact on their current day job.

Coursework In PhD in Computer Science Programs

Most classes included in computer science programs align with industry standards. Classes like Computer Languages, and Database Design, and Machine Learning provide students with a wide range of knowledge and skills to help them operate in a variety of roles post-graduation. 

Courses often include topics like data management, robotics, artificial intelligence, and software development. As a prerequisite to many of these classes, general knowledge of computer science and hardware can help students prepare for PhD-level coursework. 

Computer science graduate programs typically culminate in a research project. 

Skills Learned In PhD in Computer Science

With a PhD in Computer Science, graduates enter the workforce with a wide range of industry-specific skills. These programs build skills such as:

• Writing and improving code
• Website generation
• Advanced software engineering
• Communication
• Troubleshooting
• Operational functionality 
• Systems maintenance

How Long Does It Take To Get A PhD in Computer Science?

Some PhD programs take four years to complete, while others take up to five years. Most programs usually require 90 credit hours, including electives and the Teaching Assistantship requirement.

Factors that impact the length of a degree program include:

• Prior education (Master’s in Computer Science preferred)
• Accelerated course availability
• Synchronous vs asynchronous learning
• Part-time vs. full-time course loads

Choosing The Best PhD in Computer Science

There are many ways to earn a PhD in Computer Science. For example, you can choose to study online, in-person, or through a hybrid of both options. You may want to earn additional certifications and licenses, depending on your specialization or field of interest. This section explores the different options available for future computer science students. 

Online vs In-Person Graduate Degrees

Potential computer science PhD applicants have options depending on their current schedule and employment status. Applicants should be aware that there are many online programs to choose from. 

• Online learning offers flexibility, though on-campus learning can provide additional networking opportunities that may improve the job search post-graduation. 
• On-campus, students learn interpersonal skills that benefit them in professional settings. 
• If students choose to study online, this can be a great way to balance a job while completing the doctoral program. 

There is no right option between the two, though most doctoral students likely prefer one option over the other.

10 Best Schools With Degrees in Computer Science

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Brown University
• Cornell University
• Stanford University
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Dartmouth College
• Columbia University in the City of New York
• University of Pennsylvania
• University of California – Berkeley
• Duke University

If you’re looking for other schools that offer online degrees in computer science, check out the Find Your Perfect “U” tool. You can search over 6,000 colleges and universities with 11 different filters to find the  perfect school for you !

How Long Does It Take To Complete An Online Course? 

Depending on the type of online course, student experiences can vary. If courses are taught synchronously, then students must attend online lectures and labs at set times. Hybrid courses offer a combination of online lectures and in-person lab time, ideal for students looking to acquire skills needed to work post-graduation. 

If a course is taught asynchronously, students can watch lectures and study with flexibility. Alternatively, certificate programs offer accelerated online courses that condense the subject matter into 3-6 week increments. 

Licensure and Certification

Many computer science positions prefer and potentially require applicants to have a license and/or certification (especially for PhD grads). Prospective students should be sure to research their intended job prospects to ensure they acquire the appropriate credentials depending on the region and type of position they may hold. 

Admissions Requirements 

The first step to applying to any program is to check the admissions requirements to confirm the prerequisite experience needed to qualify. Most information technology programs require:

• Proof of completion of a 4-year  bachelor’s degree  from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum GPA requirements – These vary depending on the program
• Official Transcript
• GRE test score 
• Application fee
• Letter of Intent
• Letters of recommendation 

It is always a good idea to submit applications to schools with varying rates of acceptance. You should also diversify your application list and include schools with high and low rates of admission.  

Paying For A PhD in Computer Science

The cost of an  online PhD in Computer Science  varies depending on a range of factors. In-state tuition tends to be much cheaper than out-of-state, so be sure to apply to programs locally if cost is a determining factor. 

Online programs can be more cost-effective and accessible than in-person programs, providing applicants with options depending on their prior obligations. Some online programs also extend in-state tuition rates to all students regardless of where they live.

Lastly, colleges, universities, and organizations offer scholarships that are merit or need-based that can help minimize the financial impact of going to school.

Scholarships

There are  many scholarship  options for students in the field of computer science. Here are a few: 

• Generation Google Scholarship
• Richard E Merwin Student Scholarship
• IEEE Presidents Scholarship

Computer Science Career Resources

Online computer science phd faqs.

• Due to the web-based nature of the IT sector, pursuing an online PhD in Computer Science is a lucrative alternative to in-person education. Market projections for job growth and compensation are very positive. 
• Professionals with a PhD in Computer Science can expect to make upwards of $80,000 post-graduation, with some roles grossing up to $200,000 annually. 
• A PhD is a lengthy,  intense, and challenging ordeal. Potential applicants should think about the time and financial commitment before applying to a program. 
• After receiving a PhD in Computer Science, graduates can enter the workforce immediately at top tech firms, internally at fortune corporations, and in the academic field in a teaching capacity.  

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• https://upe.acm.org/
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Doctoral Degree in Computer Science

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

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

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

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

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

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

Time Commitment:

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

Financial Information:

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

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

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

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

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How Long Does It Take To Get a PhD?

A PhD program typically takes four to seven years, but a variety of factors can impact that timeline.

A PhD , or doctorate degree , is the highest degree you can earn in certain disciplines, such as psychology, engineering, education, and mathematics. As a result, it often takes longer to earn than it does for a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

While many PhD programs are designed to be finished in four or five years, the average completion time is much longer when you factor in the time it takes to research and write a dissertation. In 2020, for example, doctoral students took between six and twelve years to complete their PhDs [ 1 ]. By comparison, you can complete a master's degree in one to three years.

In this article, we'll explore the requirements of a PhD, what often ends up adding to the length of time, and important factors you should consider when deciding whether it’s the right choice for you.

PhD requirements + general timeline

Doctoral programs typically require PhD candidates to take take advanced courses, pass a comprehensive exam (sometimes called "comps"), and produce an original body of research, such as a dissertation, to obtain the degree. In some cases, you may also be expected to fulfill a teaching assistantship or research assistantship, both of which are meant to prepare you for a career in academia or research.

PhD requirements

The precise requirements you'll need to complete in order to get your PhD vary from one program to another, but some common tasks include:

Advanced coursework: Graduate-level coursework that explores a number of advanced sub-topics related to your field

Comprehensive exam: An exam that requires you to show knowledge of your field, such as its history, important figures, major theories or research, and more

Dissertation: An original body of research you contribute to your field

PhD timeline

The specifics of a PhD program vary by college and university, but the following estimates give you an idea of what to expect during your time in graduate school:

Year 1: Complete advanced coursework.

Year 2: Complete advanced coursework and begin preparing for your comprehensive exams.

Year 3: Study, take, and defend your comprehensive exams. Begin researching your dissertation proposal.

Year 4: Submit your dissertation proposal to your committee chair, and, once approved, begin working on your dissertation.

Year 5: Finish writing your dissertation and submit for committee approval. Defend your dissertation and apply for graduation.

Note that while this timeline gives a general timeline of how long it will take to complete a PhD program, it's very common for candidates to take more than one year to research and compose their dissertation.

Read more: Should You Go Back to School? 7 Things to Consider

PhD timelines by focus

Some PhD programs take longer to complete than others. For example, earning a doctorate in a science and engineering field typically takes less time than earning a doctorate in the arts or humanities, according to data from the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES) [ 1 ]. The list below shows the median length of time it took doctorate students to earn their degree in 2020:

Physical and Earth Sciences: 6.3 

Engineering: 6.8 years

Life sciences: 6.9 years

Mathematics and computer science: 7 years

Psychology and Social Sciences: 7.9 years

Humanities and arts: 9.6 years

Education: 12 years

Learn more: What Is a Terminal Degree and Do I Need One?

Why does it take so long to complete a PhD?

There are a few reasons why it takes more time to complete a PhD compared to other advanced degrees.

1. Dissertations

Once a doctoral student has successfully passed their comps, they are considered “All But Dissertation” or “ABD.” Yet, the number of students who successfully complete their PhD program remains low—estimates show that nearly 50 percent of students drop out, often after reaching the dissertation phase [ 2 ].

The dissertation phase can often take much longer to complete than the other requirements of a PhD. Researching and writing a dissertation takes significant time because students are expected to make an original and notable contribution to their field.

2. Assistantship obligations

Teaching and research assistantships are beneficial because they can help pay for a PhD program, but they may also take time away from working on your dissertation. Some students are expected to teach at least one class per semester on top of their other obligations as graduate students.

For universities that reduce the teaching or research load that students have as part of their assistantship, times to completion tend to improve. Humanities students at Princeton University began finishing their degree in 6.4 years (compared to 7.5 years) thanks to the institution's financial support and the reduced number of classes students taught [ 3 ].

3. Other responsibilities

Doctoral students tend to be older. Graduate students pursuing a PhD in science or engineering were an average of 31.6 years old by the time they earned their degree in 2016, according to the National Science Foundation [ 4 ]. In effect, some PhD students may have competing obligations, such as family. If a student’s funding has run out, and they have to find full-time work, it also may affect the time they can dedicate to writing their dissertation.

Is a PhD right for you?

People pursue PhDs for various reasons: Some want a job that requires the degree, such as teaching at a university, while others want the challenges or intellectual engagement that a graduate program offers. Identifying why you want to earn a PhD can help indicate whether it’s your best choice.

If your career aspirations don't require a PhD, it might be better to focus on gaining professional experience. Or if you're interested in an advanced education, a master's degree may be a better option. It takes less time to complete than a PhD and can lead to more career opportunities and larger salaries than a bachelor's degree.

Learn more: Is a Master’s Degree Worth It?

Benefits of a PhD

The primary advantage of earning a PhD is your increased demand and marketability in the workforce.

In 2018, less than 5 percent of the United States population had a doctorate degree, compared to about 48 percent with a bachelor's degree and 21 percent with a master's degree, according to the US Census Bureau [ 5 ]. As a member of this elite group, the potential for advanced roles, promotions, or pay raises may be greater.

Even before you have a degree in hand, working toward a PhD gives you opportunities to hone valuable skills , including writing, research, and data analysis . Furthermore, completing a PhD program can demonstrate to potential employers that you have specialized knowledge and the fortitude to finish such an advanced degree.

Costs of a PhD

Beyond the time they take to complete, PhD programs can be expensive. The average cost of a PhD program in the United States is just under $100,000. At some schools, the cost of a PhD can even exceed $200,000 [ 6 ]. While many institutions offer funding support in the form of assistantships or scholarships, many PhD students still graduate with student loan debt. In 2023, the average student loan debt for PhD was $134,797 [ 7 ].

Another factor to consider is the loss of income you might incur while you're working toward your degree. Some graduate students accept teaching or research assistantships to help fund the cost of their program, but these may not pay as much as full-time positions. Working on your education may also mean pausing the professional experience you’d gain in the workforce—and potentially losing out on promotions and raises. However, it’s worth noting that graduate degree holders earn much more over the course of their lifetime than bachelor’s degree holders, according to the US Social Security Administration [ 8 ].

Read more: How to Pay for Graduate School: 8 Ways

Set yourself up for success

A PhD is a major accomplishment. As you think about your long-term goals and whether a PhD will help you achieve them, it's important to understand ways you can set yourself up for success. According to the University of Georgia, success in a PhD program often means [ 9 ]:

Understanding the demands and expectations of the program

Receiving adequate program orientation

Getting support from peers and faculty

Feeling a sense of belonging as a member of an academic community

These conditions underscore the importance of choosing the right program and school to fit your personal and professional goals. Take time to research the ways your potential institution offers financial support, mental health support, and career placement support, among other program features.

An advanced degree can be a lucrative credential. You can earn your master’s in a number of in-demand fields from top universities on Coursera. Earn a degree in computer science , business , management , or public health , all while enjoying greater flexibility than an in-person degree program tends to offer. Earning your master's can also help you discern whether a PhD makes sense for your larger objectives.

Article sources

Survey of Earned Doctorates. " Path to the doctorate , https://ncses.nsf.gov/pubs/nsf22300/report/path-to-the-doctorate." Accessed January 30, 2024.

International Journal of Higher Education. “ Who Are the Doctoral Students Who Drop Out? , https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1188721.pdf.” Accessed January 30, 2024.

The New York Times. " Exploring Ways to Shorten the Ascent to a PhD , https://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/03/education/03education.html." Accessed January 30, 2024.

National Science Foundation. " Science and Engineering Doctorates , https://www.nsf.gov/statistics/2018/nsf18304/report/age-at-doctorate-award-what-are-the-overall-trends-and-characteristics/characteristics-of-doctorate-recipients-sex.cfm." Accessed January 30, 2024.

US Census Bureau. " About 13.1 Percent Have a Master’s, Professional Degree or Doctorate , https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2019/02/number-of-people-with-masters-and-phd-degrees-double-since-2000.html." Accessed January 30, 2024.

Education Data Initiative. " Average Cost of a Doctorate Degree , https://educationdata.org/average-cost-of-a-doctorate-degree." Accessed January 30, 2024.

Education Data Initiative. " Average Graduate Student Loan Debt , https://educationdata.org/average-graduate-student-loan-debt." Accessed January 30, 2024.

Social Security Administration. " Education and Lifetime Earnings , https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/research-summaries/education-earnings.html." Accessed January 30, 2024.

 A Data-Driven Approach to Improving Doctoral Completion. " Chapter 2: Description of Projects , https://cgsnet.org/cgs-occasional-paper-series/university-georgia/chapter-2." Accessed January 30, 2024.

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

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

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

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What is a phd in computer science.

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

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

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

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

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

PhD in Computer Science Admission Requirements

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

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

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

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

How to Get Into the Best Universities

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Best PhDs in Computer Science: In Brief

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

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

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

PhD in Computer Science 

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

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

PhD in Computer Science Overview

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

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

PhD in Computer Science

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PhD in Computer and Information Science and Engineering

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

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

PhD in Computer and Information Science and Engineering Overview

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

PhD in Computer and Information Science and Engineering Admission Requirements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can You Get a PhD in Computer Science Online?

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

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

Best Online PhD Programs in Computer Science

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

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

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

Is a PhD in Computer Science Hard?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Online Master’s Degrees

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

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

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

Master’s vs PhD in Computer Science Job Outlook

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

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

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

Difference in Salary for Computer Science Master’s vs PhD

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

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

Related Computer Science Degrees

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Why You Should Get a PhD in Computer Science

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

Reasons for Getting a PhD in Computer Science

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

Getting a PhD in Computer Science: Computer Science PhD Coursework

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

System Architecture

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

Artificial Intelligence

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

Information Assurance

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

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

Theory of Computation

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

Best Master’s Degrees

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Potential Careers With a Computer Science Degree

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PhD in Computer Science Salary and Job Outlook

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

What Can You Do With a PhD in Computer Science?

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

Best Jobs with a PhD in Computer Science

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

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

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

Highest-Paying Computer Science Jobs for PhD Grads

Best computer science jobs with a doctorate.

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Salary with a Computer Science PhD: $153,972

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

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

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

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

Is a PhD in Computer Science Worth It?

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

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

Additional Reading About Computer Science

[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/what-is-computer-science/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/is-computer-science-hard/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/computer-science-career-paths/

PhD in Computer Science FAQ

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

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

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

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

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If you're considering graduate school in Computer Science

Considering graduate school in Computer Science? A good place to start is to talk with one of your CS Profs that you know well. In the meantime, here are some general thoughts on graduate school in computer science.

Frequently Asked Questions About Graduate School

Why (or why not) grad school, how long does it take, what will i do after getting a ms or phd, should i work for a while between dartmouth and grad school, how do i pick a list of programs to apply to, how do i pay for grad school.

• What's important to someone evaluating your application

Hints about applying to grad school

• Reflect. Do some soul-searching. Why do you want to go to grad school? Think about your education so far. What are your passions? What are your goals in life? What excites you? What lifestyles might you want?
• Avoid listening to what others tell you to do; think about what you want.
• An MS is basically a technical degree that gives you more interesting job opportunities. A PhD is basically a research degree, which opens up a host of advanced and research-oriented opportunities.
• Think less about how much money you can make but about quality of life. With a PhD in particular, you will often find there is more autonomy, freedom, vacations, travel, influence, creativity, authority, etc. In industry, MS and PhDs are often a ticket to eventual upper-level management.
• Think more broadly than the major or course offerings at Dartmouth. There are other things - computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, computer information science, and even some very unusual special things at some places.
• Talk to professors. Discuss your ideas and goals, and get some advice. Talk to some grad students here and elsewhere. Find out what it's like. Talk to recent alum friends about what they've done, why, and how they like it.
• A PhD can be the ticket to jobs in academia, industry, and government, usually in some research or advanced development capacity, or in teaching at the college and graduate level. Or both teaching and research.

What people will want to know about your PhD work is your research. What's it about? How good is it? How likely is it that you will be able to continue being productive in your area?

• Do you like inquiry, invention, creativity, exploration, reading, discussion, writing, thinking, teaching, discovering the unknown, etc? Do you like to work with others, or independently? (Both are big aspects of research.) Do you like to tackle unstructured problems, or would you rather work on a task assigned to you? Do you prefer thinking up new ideas and sketching out the basic fundamentals, or do you like to deal with finishing the details on a project?
• You can always move after getting a Master's degree. Or take a Master's and run--to industry, or to another school.

4-6 years is typical for a PhD. It can take longer, however. I know folks who took 8 or more years for their PhD. 1-2 years is typical for an MS.

• The PhD is basically a research degree. Note that scientific research today does not fit the "lonely scientist" or "lonely hacker" image, either at the graduate or professional level. Scientists--and computer scientists are scientists--do work with people. This is obviously true for teaching, but research is essentially a collaborative exercise. Meeting people and talking to people is a big part of research.
• An MS is essentially a technical degree, especially useful when you are graduating from here with a liberal-arts BA. It will open up a range of much more interesting jobs than you can get with a BA, with more responsibility, creativity, flexibility, and income, than the typical programmer-type job. At least, sooner.
• Opportunities include academia, industry (research and/or development), and government (research labs).
• Postdoctoral appointments are becoming more common. In this case, after your PhD you go elsewhere for 1-2 years to do more research under a different advisor, in a different place, on a different project. Then you would go on to one of the above situations.

This is a very personal issue.

Advantages to working:

• It gives you valuable perspective in grad school.
• Sometimes the company will pay for your schooling.
• Gives you time to consider whether you want grad school at all.
• You can save up some money.

Disadvantages of working:

• You get used to the big fat paycheck, and it's hard to take a 75% pay cut.
• You get out of practice of "going to school".
• If you didn't take GRE as a senior, you forget a lot.
• If you did take GRE as a senior, the scores "expire" after a few years.
• Sometimes you lose "currency" if your job doesn't allow you to learn as you work.

So, if you really know you want grad school, go for it. Otherwise, you might consider working for 2-3 years, and then going to grad school.

• Choose the best programs that you can get into.
• Add 1-2 "safe" schools, that you are pretty sure you'll get into, but you wouldn't hate to be at. Remember that it is possible you'll get into some of your preferred choices, but maybe not with financial support. So, choose good schools, but ones that are perhaps less competitive.
• Pay no attention to the academic reputation of the university. It is essentially irrelevant. What matters is the reputation of the department (program) where you will be applying.
• Read their papers. Are you interested in their research?
• Find Dartmouth alums who are now students there; talk to them or find Dartmouth profs who were grad students there and talk to them.
• Student/faculty ratio.
• Success rate.
• Size of program.
• What will you learn there?
• What is required of you there?
• Who is doing interesting work there?
• Departmental dynamics...is there collaboration? Departments like this tend to be more congenial.
• Placement of recent PhDs.
• Look through journals in your area of interest; find out who is doing work in that area and where they are from.
• Talk to Dartmouth professors who are in the same general field as the one you are interested in. Discuss the schools you are considering. Ask them for suggestions. Ask them about particular professors and programs. They have connections, too, which might get you more information.
• Visit the campus. Tour the facilities. Talk to grad students, especially those who work with someone you're considering as a potential adviser. Try to get a feel for the atmosphere, the morale. This is more important than you realize. Consider things such as office space, library support, computing facilities, special research labs or computers, etc. These are important when you try to do research. Try to talk to the relevant professors. Consider the locale, and the cost of living.
• Big, famous schools are not necessarily better. In a big place you might have trouble standing out. Consider being a big fish in a small pond. On the other hand, small places can sometimes be somewhat limiting in terms of resources and variety.
• Many terminal-Master's programs (those where you are not planning to get a PhD, just a Master's) require you to pay tuition and fees. Note that many big companies will pay all this for their employees, sometimes on a part-time basis and sometimes as a year off for school, while still paying you that same huge salary! It's an option. (Same for PhD, too, though a part-time PhD takes forever!)
• Teaching assistantship (TA): You have to help run labs, tutor, grade, or even teach. First-year students rarely actually teach.
• Research assistantship (RA): You help a particular professor with their research, usually supported by a grant.
• Fellowship: This is the best. Usually this gives you all the money but with no teaching or research opportunities. Some schools do this for many of their first-year students, with the expectation that you will become a TA or RA in later years. A really good deal gives this to you for 3 or 4 or 5 years.
• Definitely plan to apply for third-party fellowships. Many require you to be a US Citizen, but not all. If you can get one of these, they often pay more, usually don't require any teaching or other duties, and you can call up the schools and tell them you have your own funds...which they are definitely psyched about. It also looks great on your resume in the future.
• One thing to know is that your guaranteed student loans (GSLs) are deferred (interest-free) so you don't have to pay them while you're a full-time student. So when you graduate from grad school, and have a big fat paycheck, and inflation has reduced your loans to a fraction of their former value, then you pay them off.

What's important to someone evaluating your application

• For most letters, you have a choice of whether to waive your right to see the letter. You should always waive this right. Yes, it may bother you greatly to waive any right, but think about it this way. If you do not waive this right, then your letter writers will not be able to write about you in confidence. Your letter readers will know this, and the letters about you will be discounted. In essence, the one subjective source of information on you has become worthless. So make sure you waive your right to see your letters.
• If you can, include something that makes you special, like a paper you wrote or the description of a programming project or the like. These "appendices" are perfectly fine and will often really make a big difference. Do not send a printout of code. But you might consider pointing to a cool program you wrote, say on github, if you really have something to show for it. Most people won't bother to try it, but they might if you make it easy for them.
• Test scores and grades are somewhat important; bad scores and grades are enough to keep you out, but great scores and grades are not enough to get you in.
• The essay is moderately important; in particular, it had better not be bad. The best essays somehow set you apart. Write your essay carefully, and rewrite it again and again. Tell them what research areas you are interested in, and why. Make it clear that you have a passion for research and would gladly charge through a machine-gun nest for the privilege of doing research. Tune the essay for each place you apply; tell them why you want to go there. Get the essay read over by someone else; make sure it is written really well. Sell yourself! Tell them what makes you unique. If you have written a research paper, or a major computer project, send them the paper (or documentation, if reasonable), perhaps after cleaning it up by making it even better.
• Start early: senior fall, or even junior summer.
• Write to lots of departments and request informational brochures and application materials.
• Take the GREs in October, or at least in December, and have the scores forwarded directly to the schools where you are applying.
• Request transcripts and have them directly forwarded.
• Send in your application well before the deadline.
• Follow up on everything. If you're using snail-mail, be paranoid.  (Who uses snail-mail anymore?) For example, send your application materials return-receipt-requested, and include a self-addressed, prestamped postcard that says "XXX university has received my materials", so that you know when they have arrived. Call them if you do not receive this. Especially: followup on faculty letters of recommendation (be tactful of course), regardless of whether they are submitted electronically or physically.
• Ask for your letters of recommendation early, October if you can. Go ahead and ask even before you have all the forms they will need, or even before you know the complete list of places you will apply. They can start writing the letter and then mail it when you give them the materials. Ask for the letters in person if possible - talk with the prof for a little while. (Make sure they remember who you are! Obviously, you want someone who really knows you well.)

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PhD Requirements

The doctor of philosophy in computer science is above all a degree of quality that is not conferred simply for the successful completion of a specified number of courses or years of study. It is a degree reserved for students who demonstrate both a comprehensive understanding of computer science and an ability to do creative research. Each PhD student will produce a significant piece of original research, presented in a written dissertation and defended in an oral examination. The expected level of quality is such that one or more conference or journal articles could be based on the research described in the dissertation. Along the way students will likely generate several other research papers, many of them co-authored with their dissertation advisor and other graduate students. 

Graduate Admissions

PhD Degree Plan

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Ready to apply? Start your application on Slate, the centralized application portal for graduate admissions at the University of Oregon.

The structure of the PhD program described here is intended to facilitate the process of learning how to do research. Throughout the program students will take courses intended to build a foundation of knowledge that is essential for advanced research. During their first year in the program, students begin with work on a directed research project under the close supervision of a faculty member. In the middle stages of the program, students will take fewer courses and spend most of their time building a foundation of knowledge in their research area and learning how to identify and solve open problems under the guidance of the Dissertation Advisory Committee (DAC). The final step is to propose an independent research topic, conduct the research, and then write and defend a dissertation.

Academic Advisor 

The Graduate Program Coordinator will assign an academic advisor to each student admitted to the PhD Program. The academic advisor does not have to be in the student's potential research area. In fact, it is recommended that in the first few years in the program the academic advisor not be the student's eventual dissertation advisor in order to provide a different perspective for the student. A student can change his or her academic advisor by making a request to the Graduate Education Committee (GEC). Towards the latter years of the PhD program, it is common for the academic advisor and research advisor to be the same individual. 

Division of Graduate Studies Policies (Extremely Important) 

It is essential that all PhD students be familiar with GradWeb and the Division of Graduate Studies policies through careful review of the Graduate Studies website . For example, they should note the Doctoral Policy and Procedures pertaining to time limit, residency and continuous enrollment. Students who have any questions about these matters should consult with the Graduate Program Coordinator. 

Course Requirements 

PhD students who enter the program without a master's degree in computer science are required to take 48 credits in graduate classes. They must also meet the breadth and depth requirements .

Breadth and Depth 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. 

PhD students must take an additional 24 credits of graduate-level courses, 12 of which must be from 600-level courses. Courses numbered 510, which appear on the approved course list, may be included in any 500-level credits. For graduate level courses taken in other departments on campus, a petition to the Graduate Education Committee is required. 

Students who enter with a master's degree may petition the Graduate Education Committee to waive any of the above course requirements, indicating how their prior graduate work corresponds to the above courses. See the Graduate Program Coordinator for the petition. 

Minimum Annual Enrollment 

Prior to candidacy, all PhD students are expected to enroll in at least six credits worth of 600-level courses each year. These six credits can be any 600-level course used to complete the breadth, depth, or elective requirements, as described above. Note that Research (CIS 601), Dissertation (CIS 603), and Readings (CIS 605) cannot be used to satisfy this requirement. After candidacy, PhD students are encouraged to continue participating in 600-level courses. 

Directed Research Project

Each student must complete a directed research project under the close supervision of a faculty member. The goals of the Directed Research Project (DRP) are two-fold. One is to give a PhD candidate an early opportunity for a research experience under supervision of a faculty committee. The other is to give an early assessment of the candidate's research potential in the department's environment. To achieve these goals, the DRP is to be completed in a timely fashion (see DRP timeline). 

The scope of a DRP should be somewhere between an undergraduate honors and a master's thesis. A desired result of a DRP is a publishable paper or a departmental technical report. 

A DRP consists of the following components: literature review, research, possibly software artifact, written report in the form of the DRP final paper, public presentation of the results, and the exam by private questioning from the committee members. 

Formation of the DRP Committee : The student and the faculty sponsor agree on a project, committee members, timeline and deliverables The DRP committee consists of the faculty sponsor and two other CS faculty members, one preferably outside the immediate project area. A faculty member of another department with a "participating" appointment in the CS Department can count as one of the two CS members.

The DRP Contract : The student writes up a DRP contract that includes project description, DRP committee members, time line and deliverables (about 2-4 pages), attaches a copy of the APPROVAL FOR THE DRP CONTRACT FORM with signatures, and submits it to the GEC for approval by turning it in to the Graduate Program Coordinator. This form can be obtained from the Graduate Program Coordinator. See DRP timeline regarding submission of this form.

Research Credits : The student will register for 4-6 credits of 601 Research during each of the terms in which the research will be conducted, possibly for less in the initial and/or final term of the project. See DRP timeline for deadline for completion of the DRP.

The DRP Paper : The DRP paper reports the results of the student's research project in a professional format and style. Two weeks prior to the scheduled presentation, the student must submit the paper and other deliverables to the DRP Committee.

The DRP Presentation and Questioning : The student, in consultation with the faculty sponsor, must schedule the DRP presentation through the Graduate Program Coordinator who will confirm and notify the faculty and graduate students. The DRP presentation is a public talk given in the department. It is followed by private questioning of the student by the DRP Committee and other faculty members. At the end of the exam, the DRP Committee agrees on the outcome of the DRP.

Possible Outcomes of the DRP : The possible outcomes are:

• Pass, with distinction,
• Conditional pass (e.g. perform some remedial work pertinent to the project) or,

A conditional pass will have a specified deadline for completion of the remedial work. Failure of a DRP could result from one or more of the following: not completing the DRP in a timely fashion; not fulfilling the contract; inadequacy in the quality of work performed; inadequacy of the written report and/or oral presentation; inability to answer questions pertaining to the project.

In case of a fail for the DRP, the student could be asked to leave the program or may be given the option of undertaking another DRP. The DRP can be repeated at most once, and the second DRP must be successfully completed within three quarters of residence following the decision.

The results of the DRP are indicated on the RESULTS OF THE DIRECTED RESEARCH PROJECT FORM, each committee member signs, and the form is then returned to the Graduate Program Coordinator. The student then must  submit their DRP report to CS archives .

DRP Timeline

APPROVAL FOR THE DRP CONTRACT FORM must be submitted by week eight of spring term in the student's first year.

RESULTS OF THE DIRECTED RESEARCH PROJECT FORM indicating completion of the DRP must be submitted according to the following schedule. This schedule presumes fall admission to the Ph.D. program. For off-cycle admission, the student should consult with GEC for precise deadlines.

Following the completion of a DRP, the student forms their Dissertation Advisory Committee (DAC), chooses an area of research, and begins the process of preparing for the Area Exam. The milestone should be completed about one year after the DRP.

Dissertation Advisory Committee

Ph.D. Students will form a Dissertation Advisory Committee (DAC) immediately upon completion of their DRP. The student's research advisor will be the chair of the committee. Just as with the DRP, the other two members of the committee are CS faculty, or one CS faculty and a faculty from another department with a "participating" appointment in CS. An outside member is optional for the early stages, but should be part of the Division of Graduate Studies mandated Dissertation Committee. (See the  Division of Graduate Studies Doctoral Dissertation Committee Policy ). The main role of the DAC will be to advise students during the phase of the Ph.D. program between the passing of the DRP and the scheduling of the dissertation defense. The DAC will take primary responsibility for evaluating student progress. Students will meet with their DAC at least once every academic year. Two weeks before the annual review meeting the student will fill out an annual review form and write a short research paper and submit both to their committee members. The annual meeting will include a private oral presentation at which the student will give a summary of their research and their goals for the coming year. There will be a short question and answer period, followed by a closed session where the committee will discuss the student's progress. The chair of the DAC will write a report and submit it to GEC.

Annual DAC review meetings must be scheduled before the fifth week of Winter Quarter, and held by the end on Winter Quarter.  Holding the DAC prior to this deadline is encouraged.

The Area Exam (formerly known as Oral Comprehensive Exam)

In consultation with the Dissertation Advisory Committee (DAC), the student further defines their research area. This is described in a written study plan, which defines the area and contains a reading list. During the preparation period, the student should consult their advisor periodically to monitor progress. As an end result, the student writes a position paper. This paper should describe the research area, its main methodology and results, as well as the sub-area of the student's future research. After the paper is approved by the DAC, the student gives a public presentation covering the area as presented in the student's research paper, after which he or she will be quizzed by the DAC members. Upon completion of the talk, have the form signed by all DAC members and the head of GEC, and return it to the Graduate Program Coordinator. The student then must submit their Area Exam to CS archives . Find timeline details and other important information about this process on the CS Intranet .

Dissertation Proposal, Research, and Defense

The final phase in a student's PhD program is the dissertation. During this phase, the student forms the Dissertation Committee in consultation with his or her advisor, identifies a significant unsolved research problem, carries out the research required to solve the problem, and then writes and defends a dissertation. Find all dissertation requirements on the CS Intranet .

Limits of Financial Support 

Time limits: PhD students are eligible for GE funding from the CS department (henceforth referred to as "departmental support") during their first five years of graduate study at the University of Oregon. Eligibility is not a guarantee of funding. See the rules for yearly application for GE funding after the first two years in the program. 

For students who enter the MS program at the University of Oregon and then transfer to the PhD program, the five years of eligibility includes all time in the graduate program, including the MS program. 

This limit applies regardless of other funding a student may receive during the first five years of graduate study at the University of Oregon, including GE-R (research) support from CS and any kind of support from outside the department. 

While students are eligible for five years of departmental support, PhD students should typically find GE-R support in their research areas after the first two years. Moving from departmental support to grant-supported research assistantships both accelerates the progress of PhD research and makes department-funded GE positions available for incoming students. 

The time limits specified above pertain only to departmental support from department funds. If a student is grant supported, he/she may receive financial support beyond the five year eligibility limit. 

Annual Review

Students are reviewed on an annual basis (as outlined in section VII), and reappointment is subject to satisfactory academic performance and progress, as well as satisfactory performance in their GE-Teaching role. Failure to meet the deadlines for the DRP, Area Exam, and PhD Proposal are possible grounds for suspension or termination of financial support. 

In early spring term, the Dissertation Advisory Committee will report to GEC the quality of each student’s work. At this time, any areas of concern or commendation are discussed. These results are communicated to students via an official letter discussing their performance.

Office Space and Computer Accounts

Office space for unsupported PhD students is not guaranteed. Office space will not be given to students after they have completed their degree. Graduating students can continue their computer accounts, as alumni, for one year. 

PhD Time Limits & Milestones

Graduate college time requirements for degree.

• Bachelors to PhD Program Time Limits - 7 years from first term enrolled in doctoral program. Please see Illinois CS PhD Milestones below for the Department's Time Requirement for Ph.D.
• PhD Program Time Limits with a MS at Illinois - 5 years (2 yrs. for MS and 5 yrs. for PhD)
• PhD Program Time Limits with a Non-Illinois MS - 6 years from first term enrolled in doctoral program

Illinois CS PhD Milestone Timeline

The department's timeline is an average of 6 years to complete the Ph.D. degree. The timeline below is based on a 5-year program of study.

Graduate Advising

The Graduate Academic Office, a guiding hand for CS graduate students, assistance is available every weekday.

• Current MIT Graduate Students

Doctoral Programs in Computational Science and Engineering

Application & admission information.

The Center for Computational Science and Engineering (CCSE) offers two doctoral programs in computational science and engineering (CSE) – one leading to a standalone PhD degree in CSE offered entirely by CCSE (CSE PhD) and the other leading to an interdisciplinary PhD degree offered jointly with participating departments in the School of Engineering and the School of Science (Dept-CSE PhD).

While both programs enable students to specialize at the doctoral level in a computation-related field via focused coursework and a thesis, they differ in essential ways. The standalone CSE PhD program is intended for students who plan to pursue research in cross-cutting methodological aspects of computational science. The resulting doctoral degree in Computational Science and Engineering is awarded by CCSE via the the Schwarzman College of Computing. In contrast, the interdisciplinary Dept-CSE PhD program is intended for students who are interested in computation in the context of a specific engineering or science discipline. For this reason, this degree is offered jointly with participating departments across the Institute; the interdisciplinary degree is awarded in a specially crafted thesis field that recognizes the student’s specialization in computation within the chosen engineering or science discipline.

Applicants to the standalone CSE PhD program are expected to have an undergraduate degree in CSE, applied mathematics, or another field that prepares them for an advanced degree in CSE. Applicants to the Dept-CSE PhD program should have an undergraduate degree in a related core disciplinary area as well as a strong foundation in applied mathematics, physics, or related fields. When completing the MIT CSE graduate application , students are expected to declare which of the two programs they are interested in. Admissions decisions will take into account these declared interests, along with each applicant’s academic background, preparation, and fit to the program they have selected.  All applicants are asked to specify MIT CCSE-affiliated faculty that best match their research interests; applicants to the Dept-CSE PhD program also select the home department(s) that best match. At the discretion of the admissions committee, Dept-CSE PhD applications might also be shared with a home department beyond those designated in the application. CSE PhD admissions decisions are at the sole discretion of CCSE; Dept-CSE PhD admission decisions are conducted jointly between CCSE and the home departments.

Please note: These are both doctoral programs in Computational Science and Engineering; applicants interested in Computer Science must apply to the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science .

Important Dates

September 15: Application Opens December 1: Deadline to apply for admission* December – March: Application review period January – March: Decisions released on rolling basis

*All supplemental materials (e.g., transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation) must also be received by December 1. Application review begins on that date, and incomplete applications may not be reviewed. Please be sure that your recommenders are aware of this hard deadline, as we do not make exceptions. We also do not allow students to upload/submit material beyond what is required, such as degree certificates, extra recommendations, publications, etc.

A complete electronic CSE application includes the following:

• Three letters of recommendation ;
• Students admitted to the program will be required to supply official transcripts. Discrepancies between unofficial and official transcripts may result in the revocation of the admission offer.
• Statement of objectives (limited to approximately one page) and responses to department-specific prompts for Dept-CSE PhD applicants;
• Official GRE General Test score report , sent to MIT by ETS via institute code 3514 GRE REQUIREMENT WAIVED FOR FALL 2024 ;
• Official IELTS score report sent to MIT by IELTS†  (international applicants from non-English speaking countries only; see below for more information)
• Resume or CV , uploaded in PDF format;
• MIT graduate application fee of $75‡.

‡Application Fee

The MIT graduate application fee of $75.00 is a mandatory requirement set by the Institute payable by credit card. Please visit the MIT Graduate Admission Application Fee Waiver page for information about fee waiver eligibility and instructions.

Please note: CCSE cannot issue fee waivers; email requests for fee waivers sent to [email protected] will not be considered.

Admissions Contact Information

Email: [email protected]

► Current MIT CSE SM Students: Please see the page for Current MIT Graduate Students .

GRE Requirement

GRE REQUIREMENT WAIVED FOR FALL 2024 All applicants are required to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Aptitude Test. The MIT code for submitting GRE score reports is 3514 (you do not need to list a department code). GRE scores must current; ETS considers scores valid for five years after the testing year in which you tested.

†English Language Proficiency Requirement

The CSE PhD program requires international applicants from non-English speaking countries to take the academic  version of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).  The IELTS exam measures one’s ability to communicate in English in four major skill areas: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.  A minimum IELTS score of 7 is required for admission.  For more information about the IELTS, and to find out where and how to take the exam, please visit the IELTS web site .

While we will also accept the TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language), we strongly prefer the IELTS. The minimum TOEFL iBT score is 100.

This requirement is waived for those who can demonstrate that one or more of the following are true:

• English is/was the language of instruction in your four-year undergraduate program,
• English is the language of your employer/workplace for at least the last four years,
• English was your language of instruction in both primary and secondary schools.

Degree Requirements for Admission

To be admitted as a regular graduate student, an applicant must have earned a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a college, university, or technical school of acceptable standing. Students in their final year of undergraduate study may be admitted on the condition that their bachelor’s degree is awarded before they enroll at MIT.

Applicants without an SM degree may apply to the CSE PhD program, however, the Departments of Aeronautics and Astronautics and Mechanical Engineering nominally require the completion of an SM degree before a student is considered a doctoral candidate. As a result, applicants to those departments holding only a bachelor’s degree are asked in the application to indicate whether they prefer to complete the CSE SM program or an SM through the home department.

Nondiscrimination Policy

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is committed to the principle of equal opportunity in education and employment.  To read MIT’s most up-to-date nondiscrimination policy, please visit the Reference Publication Office’s nondiscrimination statement page .

Additional Information

For more details, as well as answers to most commonly asked questions regarding the admissions process to individual participating Dept-CSE PhD departments including details on financial support, applicants are referred to the website of the participating department of interest.

PhD in Computer Science

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

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

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

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

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

Application information & deadlines

December 15, 2023, computer science.

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

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How Long Does It Take to Get a Ph.D. Degree?

Earning a Ph.D. from a U.S. grad school typically requires nearly six years, federal statistics show.

How Long It Takes to Get a Ph.D. Degree

Caiaimage | Tom Merton | Getty Images

A Ph.D. is most appropriate for someone who is a "lifelong learner."

Students who have excelled within a specific academic discipline and who have a strong interest in that field may choose to pursue a Ph.D. degree. However, Ph.D. degree-holders urge prospective students to think carefully about whether they truly want or need a doctoral degree, since Ph.D. programs last for multiple years.

According to the Survey of Earned Doctorates, a census of recent research doctorate recipients who earned their degree from U.S. institutions, the median amount of time it took individuals who received their doctorates in 2017 to complete their program was 5.8 years. However, there are many types of programs that typically take longer than six years to complete, such as humanities and arts doctorates, where the median time for individuals to earn their degree was 7.1 years, according to the survey.

Some Ph.D. candidates begin doctoral programs after they have already obtained master's degrees, which means the time spent in grad school is a combination of the time spent pursuing a master's and the years invested in a doctorate. In order to receive a Ph.D. degree, a student must produce and successfully defend an original academic dissertation, which must be approved by a dissertation committtee. Writing and defending a dissertation is so difficult that many Ph.D. students drop out of their Ph.D. programs having done most of the work necessary for degree without completing the dissertation component. These Ph.D. program dropouts often use the phrase " all but dissertation " or the abbreviation "ABD" on their resumes.

According to a comprehensive study of Ph.D. completion rates published by The Council of Graduate Schools in 2008, only 56.6% of people who begin Ph.D. programs earn Ph.D. degrees.

Ian Curtis, a founding partner with H&C Education, an educational and admissions consulting firm, who is pursuing a Ph.D. degree in French at Yale University , says there are several steps involved in the process of obtaining a Ph.D. Students typically need to fulfill course requirements and pass comprehensive exams, Curtis warns. "Once these obligations have been completed, how long it takes you to write your dissertation depends on who you are, how you work, what field you're in and what other responsibilities you have in life," he wrote in an email. Though some Ph.D. students can write a dissertation in a single year, that is rare, and the dissertation writing process may last for several years, Curtis says.

Curtis adds that the level of support a Ph.D. student receives from an academic advisor or faculty mentor can be a key factor in determining the length of time it takes to complete a Ph.D. program. "Before you decide to enroll at a specific program, you’ll want to meet your future advisor," Curtis advises. "Also, reach out to his or her current and former students to get a sense of what he or she is like to work with."

Curtis also notes that if there is a gap between the amount of time it takes to complete a Ph.D. and the amount of time a student's funding lasts, this can slow down the Ph.D. completion process. "Keep in mind that if you run out of funding at some point during your doctorate, you will need to find paid work, and this will leave you even less time to focus on writing your dissertation," he says. "If one of the programs you’re looking at has a record of significantly longer – or shorter – times to competition, this is good information to take into consideration."

He adds that prospective Ph.D. students who already have master's degrees in the field they intend to focus their Ph.D. on should investigate whether the courses they took in their master's program would count toward the requirements of a Ph.D. program. "You’ll want to discuss your particular situation with your program to see whether this will be possible, and how many credits you are likely to receive as the result of your master’s work," he says.

How to Write M.D.-Ph.D. Application Essays

Ilana Kowarski May 15, 2018

Emmanuel C. Nwaodua, who has a Ph.D. degree in geology, says some Ph.D. programs require candidates to publish a paper in a first-rate, peer-reviewed academic journal. "This could extend your stay by a couple of years," he warns.

Pierre Huguet, the CEO and co-founder of H&C Education, says prospective Ph.D. students should be aware that a Ph.D. is designed to prepare a person for a career as a scholar. "Most of the jobs available to Ph.D. students upon graduation are academic in nature and directly related to their fields of study: professor, researcher, etc.," Huguet wrote in an email. "The truth is that more specialization can mean fewer job opportunities. Before starting a Ph.D., students should be sure that they want to pursue a career in academia, or in research. If not, they should make time during the Ph.D. to show recruiters that they’ve traveled beyond their labs and libraries to gain some professional hands-on experience."

Jack Appleman, a business writing instructor, published author and Ph.D. candidate focusing on organizational communication with the University at Albany—SUNY , says Ph.D. programs require a level of commitment and focus that goes beyond what is necessary for a typical corporate job. A program with flexible course requirements that allow a student to customize his or her curriculum based on academic interests and personal obligations is ideal, he says.

Joan Kee, a professor at the University of Michigan with the university's history of art department, says that the length of time required for a Ph.D. varies widely depending on what subject the Ph.D. focuses on. "Ph.D. program length is very discipline and even field-specific; for example, you can and are expected to finish a Ph.D, in economics in under five years, but that would be impossible in art history (or most of the humanities)," she wrote in an email.

Kee adds that humanities Ph.D. programs often require someone to learn a foreign language, and "fields like anthropology and art history require extensive field research." Kee says funding for a humanities Ph.D. program typically only lasts five years, even though it is uncommon for someone to obtain a Ph.D. degree in a humanities field within that time frame. "Because of this, many if not most Ph.D. students must work to make ends meet, thus further prolonging the time of completion," she says.

Jean Marie Carey, who earned her Ph.D. degree in art history and German from the University of Otago in New Zealand, encourages prospective Ph.D. students to check whether their potential Ph.D. program has published a timeline of how long it takes a Ph.D. student to complete their program. She says it is also prudent to speak with Ph.D. graduates of the school and ask about their experience.

Online Doctoral Programs: What to Expect

Ronald Wellman March 23, 2018

Kristin Redington Bennett, the founder of the Illumii educational consulting firm in North Carolina, encourages Ph.D. hopefuls to think carefully about whether they want to become a scholar. Bennett, who has a Ph.D. in curriculum and assessment and who previously worked as an assistant professor at Wake Forest University , says a Ph.D. is most appropriate for someone who is a "lifelong learner." She says someone contemplating a Ph.D. should ask themselves the following questions "Are you a very curious person... and are you persistent?"

Bennett urges prospective Ph.D. students to visit the campuses of their target graduate programs since a Ph.D. program takes so much time that it is important to find a school that feels comfortable. She adds that aspiring Ph.D. students who prefer a collaborative learning environment should be wary of graduate programs that have a cut-throat and competitive atmosphere, since such students may not thrive in that type of setting.

Alumni of Ph.D. programs note that the process of obtaining a Ph.D. is arduous, regardless of the type of Ph.D. program. "A Ph.D. is a long commitment of your time, energy and financial resources, so it'll be easier on you if you are passionate about research," says Grace Lee, who has a Ph.D. in neuroscience and is the founder and CEO of Mastery Insights, an education and career coaching company, and the host of the Career Revisionist podcast.

"A Ph.D. isn't about rehashing years of knowledge that is already out there, but rather it is about your ability to generate new knowledge. Your intellectual masterpiece (which is your dissertation) takes a lot of time, intellectual creativity and innovation to put together, so you have to be truly passionate about that," Lee says.

Curtis says a prospective Ph.D. student's enthusiasm for academic work, teaching and research are the key criteria they should use to decide whether to obtain a Ph.D. degree. "While the time it takes to complete a doctorate is an understandable concern for many, my personal belief is that time is not the most important factor to consider," he says. "Good Ph.D. programs provide their students with generous stipends, health care and sometimes even subsidized housing."

Erin Skelly, a graduate admissions counselor at the IvyWise admissions consulting firm, says when a Ph.D. students struggles to complete his or her Ph.D. degree, it may have more to do with the student's academic interests or personal circumstances than his or her program.

"The time to complete a Ph.D. can depend on a number of variables, but the specific discipline or school would only account for a year or two's difference," she wrote in an email. "When a student takes significantly longer to complete a Ph.D. (degree), it's usually related to the student's coursework and research – they need to take additional coursework to complete their comprehensive exams; they change the focus of their program or dissertation, requiring extra coursework or research; or their research doesn't yield the results they hoped for, and they need to generate a new theory and conduct more research."

Skelly warns that the average completion time of a Ph.D. program may be misleading in some cases, if the average is skewed based on one or two outliers. She suggests that instead of focusing on the duration of a particular Ph.D. program, prospective students should investigate the program's attritition and graduation rates.

"It is worthwhile to look at the program requirements and the school's proposed timeline for completion, and meet current students to get their input on how realistic these expectations for completion are," Skelly says. "That can give you an honest idea of how long it will really take to complete the program."

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Ph.D. Admissions: Frequently Asked Questions

Virtual Information Sessions

These sessions will provide an overview of the Allen School's Ph.D. application process and incorporate information about graduate student life and experiences with the aid of a panel of graduate students doing Q & A. 

Registration

Ph.D. Application Timeline

• Application Opens: Sept 1
• Application Deadline: Dec 16
• Decisions Released: Mid-Feb
• Grad Visit Days: Mid-March
• Response Deadline: April 15
• Study Begins:  Mid-Sept

General Program Questions

Do you have a master's program, do you have a part-time ph.d. program can i pursue the phd part-time while working, do you have a remote or online ph.d. program.

• How can I contact you for more information?
• Who does this program target?
• How does the full-time Ph.D. program differ from the part-time PMP program?

Ph.D. Eligibility and Application Questions

Is the gre required, what is the application deadline.

• Do I need letters of recommendation? Who should write them?

How do I apply to the Ph.D. program?

What are my chances of being admitted into the ph.d. program.

• Can I transfer from another Ph.D. program?

Are fee waivers available?

Ph.d. program questions, are students fully funded how much will this cost, how long will it take me to complete the degree.

• If I have taken graduate coursework in computer science elsewhere, can I transfer credit to the Ph.D. program?

Do I need to secure a faculty advisor before applying?

What benefits do i receive as an academic student employee (ase), international students.

• I am a non-native speaker of English. How can I meet the English language proficiency requirement?

What types of visa does the Allen School provide?

Does the uw accept 3 year bachelor's degrees.

The Allen School does not offer a standalone, full-time master’s program; rather, the part-time, evening Professional Master's Program is the only MS program available. The PMP is a coursework-based program designed for fully-employed software developers residing in the Seattle area at the time of application. To be considered for admission, an applicant must have a minimum of two years of full-time, post-degree professional software development experience in which their job tasks involve at least 50% hands-on programming.

We recommend that students looking to complete graduate studies and research at the Allen School (UW-Seattle) consider applying to the Computer Science & Engineering Ph.D program , which awards an MS degree as you earn the doctorate. Otherwise, the other UW computer science master's programs are the MS in Computer Science & Software Engineering at UW-Bothell and the MS in Computer Science and Systems at UW-Tacoma . A recent addition to UW-Tacoma is the PhD in Computer Science and Systems . All three (3) campuses operate under different academic policies so you will need to contact the departments directly for more information.

No, we do not. Students with an RA, TA, or Fellowship are required to be full-time in the PhD program. As such, satisfactory progress is expected to be consistent with a full-time focus on research and education work. Courses, seminars, and research meetings are typically scheduled to occur on campus during standard business hours. A full-time PhD program may often exceed a standard 40-hour work week between your own academic commitments and your work as a teaching or research assistant. This is usually incompatible with full-time employment.

No, we do not. Our Ph.D. program is offered in-person, including the coursework and research you will perform as a student.

Who does the Ph.D. program target?

The Ph.D. program targets exceptional students with demonstrated research potential and a career goal of academic or industrial research at a top tier institution. This is not a ideal program for bolstering an already-existing career in software engineering.

How does the full-time Ph.D. differ from the part-time PMP program?

The full-time Ph.D. program benefits students who want to follow our faculty into academic or industrial research, while the PMP takes our faculty’s cutting-edge research into the classroom for students to apply to their products and projects in the workplace. Please note that the UW Computer Science and Engineering department does not offer a terminal full-time master’s degree program; the PMP is the only standalone MS in Computer Science program available at UW Seattle.

How can I contact you for more information about the Ph.D. program?

Email the Ph.D. advising team at grad-advising [at] cs [dot] washington [dot] edu . We welcome questions from prospective students who would like to further explore how their backgrounds might fit with the goals of the program. We are happy to meet individually with students for questions not covered by our admissions pages!

Eligibility and Application Questions

GRE scores are no longer required or accepted for the Ph.D. program. GRE scores will not be reviewed or considered by the Allen School, even if they are submitted to the University of Washington. Other graduate programs at the University of Washington may still require the GRE.

December 15, with students expected to enroll in the following autumn. The Allen School only holds one doctoral program admissions cycle each year.

The Ph.D. Program application process is fully-electronic and takes place in the UW Graduate School application . Our How to Apply page offers a step-by-step guide and additional information concerning each application component.

Admission to the Ph.D. program is extremely competitive. In 2023, we saw over 3,000 applications and send offers to 150 students. The average GPA of admits is 3.8, though GPA is not a major factor in admissions. Competitive students will be able to demonstrate their research potential through their application materials, supported by letters of recommendation that reinforce this information. We utilize holistic admissions processes and look to the whole history of the student, including access to research opportunities (or lack thereof).

The Allen School provides every student accepted to our Ph.D. program with 3 years of guaranteed financial support in the form of teaching and research assistantships or fellowships.

In exchange for 20 hours of work per week, research and teaching assistants receive:

• Tuition waiver of all but approximately $250 per quarter in fees.
• Monthly stipend to cover living expenses
• Health insurance (100% of premium for student, 65% of premium for dependents)

The average time to completion is about 6 years. Students will take longer or shorter depending on progress to milestones, research track record, and desired outcome post-Ph.D.

If I have taken graduate coursework in computer science elsewhere, can I transfer credit to the Ph.D. Program?

The Allen School doesn't formally transfer credits from prior degrees into the Ph.D. program. That said, we allow students to waive up to two of the seven required courses based on prior graduate level coursework taken. You can learn more on our course waivers page .

Applicants are given the opportunity to indicate up to 3 interest areas from our research areas of expertise. If you are confident that you'd like to work with any particular faculty member(s), you may indicate their name(s) in the supplemental question. This question is optional but is strongly encouraged to make sure your application is reviewed by the appropriate reviewers during the admissions process. For a list of faculty and a description of their research, see our faculty directory . You do not need to contact faculty prior to applying, nor is it expected.

The University of Washington offers several benefits and leave options to graduate students in research, teaching, and graduate assistantship positions. Academic student employees (ASE) positions have work benefits defined by the ASE Contract. This contract is the result of a collective bargaining process between the Union of Academic Student Employees ( UAW Local 4121 ), and the University of Washington.

• Graduate Appointee Insurance Program (GAIP) : ASEs receive health insurance coverage that covers medical, vision, and dental. You can read the UW HR summary here.
• Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) : ASEs are eligible for paid medical and family leave after completing four calendar quarters of employment at the standard 50% appointment. PFML requests need to be the result of a “qualifying event.” You can read more about UW HR’s policy here.
• Leave of Absence : The UW Graduate School has additional policies that allow graduate students to take a leave of absence. Students are eligible for this option after completing their first quarter of instruction. You can read more about the Graduate School’s On-Leave Policy here .

The UW Graduate School offers application fee waivers to U.S. residents who demonstrate financial need. The process for requesting a fee waiver from the UW Graduate School is available on their application page . Additionally, the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering offers to pre-pay the application fee of applicants who participate in approved programs which focus on outreach as it relates to preparing students for computer science research careers. The list below outlines some of these programs. Contact grad-admissions@cs for inquiries about any additional programs which may qualify.

In order to request pre-payment of the application fee, the applicant must first complete all required components of the application. Prior to submitting, email grad-admissions (at) cs (dot) washington (dot) edu with the following information at least seven (7) calendar days ahead of the application deadline (approximately December 6th):

Application Pre-payment Approved Organizations + Conferences

• Access Computing
• ACM Richard Tapia Celebration of Diversity in Computing Conference ( Tapia )
• American Indian Sciences and Engineering Society ( AISES )
• Any program or scholarship from The National Center for Women & Information Technology ( NCWIT )
• Any recipient of a scholarship from this list of scholarship organizations that serve students with disabilities
• Any Computer and Information Science and Engineering  REU  from the National Science Foundation
• Atlanta University Center Consortium (Morehouse College, Spelman College, Morehouse School of Medicine, Clark Atlanta University)
• Attend or graduate from a Tribal College or University, a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), or a Minority-Serving Institution.
• Black in AI
• California Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation @ UCSD ( CAMP )
• Chancellor’s Science Scholars - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Computing Alliance of Hispanic Serving Institutions ( CAHSI )
• Computer and Information Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowships ( CSGrad4US )
• Early Research Scholarship Program ( ERSP )
• GEM Fellowship Program
• Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing ( GHC )
• Hispanics in Computing
• KARSH STEM Scholars
• Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation in Science, Technology, Engineering & Math ( LSAMP )
• McNair Scholars
• Meyerhoff Scholars Program
• Millennium Scholars Program @ Penn State University ( MSP )
• National GEM Consortium ( GEM Fellow applicant )
• National Name Exchange ( NNE )
• National Society of Black Engineers( NSBE )
• Out in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics ( oSTEM )
• Queer in AI
• Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)
• Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics & Native Americans in Science ( SACNAS )
• Society of Women Engineers ( SWE )
• The Leadership Alliance

I am a non-native speaker of English. How can I meet the English language proficiency requirement? (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo)

Graduate Policy 3.2 covers the methods one can meet the English language proficiency for non-native speakers of English:

• A bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution located in the United States and where English is the medium of instruction.
• A bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree from an institution in Australia, the Bahamas, Canada, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, or the United Kingdom and where English is the medium of instruction. While enrolled at the degree-granting school, the student must be in residence on campus.
• Official or attested letter from the undergraduate college, university Registrar, or Controller of Examinations office.
• Official transcripts, attested mark sheets or degree statements, are also accepted if English is stated as the medium of instruction.
• Official English Language Test Score (sent electronically to the University of Washington via testing center). Note: Graduate programs may require a higher minimum scores for admission than the scores listed below:

Graduate students who work as TAs have additional requirements under Graduate Policy 5.2 , including meeting the English Language Proficency requirement above. You do not need to meet these additional requirements in order to apply. Ph.D. students are required to TA for at least two quarters to graduate, either by satisfying the testing requirements, passing an appeal interview, or passing ENGL 105: English for International Teaching Assistants (ITAs) .

The Allen School is able to support students with F-1 or J-1 visas. You can read more about visa information at the International Student Services website explaining visas.

We are only able to accept a 3-year Bologna bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 180 European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits. Also acceptable: hold a Master’s degree, a doctoral degree (Ph.D., D.Phil.), or a professional degree (M.D., J.D., D.V.M., etc.) from a regionally accredited college or university in the U.S. or its equivalent from an accredited foreign institution.

Email forwarding for @cs.stanford.edu is changing. Updates and details here . CS Commencement Ceremony June 16, 2024.  Learn More .

PhD | Course Requirements

Main navigation.

A student should plan and successfully complete a coherent program of study covering the basic areas of Computer Science and related disciplines. The student's advisor has primary responsibility for the adequacy of the program. The University has two main requirements related to courses. First, each student must complete 135 course units (a total of 10 units of PE courses can be counted towards this) for graduation. 

• There are  NO  courses specifically required by the Computer Science Department, except for the 1-unit  CS300  seminar and  CS499  (Advanced Reading & Research), or equivalent (research units with your non-CS faculty advisor's home department). The CS300 seminar is only offered during Autumn quarter and is required of all first-year PhD students. Students are required to attend  2/3  of the total number of sessions in order to get credit for the class.
• Important Note:  All PhD students are required to enroll in at least 3-units of  CS499  or equivalent (research units with your non-CS faculty advisor's home department) for all quarters. The University requires PhD students to maintain a 3.0 GPA overall for conferring their degree. 
• Curriculum Practical Training (CPT).  An authorized period of employment that is an integral or important part of a student’s curriculum ( learn more ).

Questions regarding part-time CPT during academic quarters should be directed to Jay Subramanian ( [email protected] ).  The information and details vary by the student status, funding, visa and immigration rules, therefore, should be discussed with Jay prior to the quarter of CPT.

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Is a PhD in Computer Science Worth It?

A PhD in computer science prepares you for a lifetime of high-end research in cutting-edge technologies and theory. It's not for everyone, but if it's for you, you probably already know that.

Computer Science Programs You Should Consider

The University of Tennessee

Online master of computer science.

Merrimack College

Master of science in computer science.

Case Western Reserve University

Stevens Institute of Technology

Tufts University

Each year, the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM ) confers the AM Turing Award for “contributions of lasting and major technical importance to the computer field.” Sometimes referred to as “the Nobel Prize in computing,” the Turing Award sets the benchmark for groundbreaking work in the field of computer science. Recent winners include scientists who invented the World Wide Web, advanced cryptography, pioneered practices in database systems, and contributed to the advancement of artificial intelligence.

Not all computer science research is as accomplished or glamorous as the work done by Turing Award winners, admittedly. Those who undertake this research, however, aspire to discover something groundbreaking and significant, innovations that will substantially alter the way computers do their work and, in so doing, change the world. Frequently, that research is conducted through a university PhD program.

MS in Computer Science at University of Tennessee-Knoxville

You can earn your degree entirely online in as few as 24 months while working full-time.

Why pursue a PhD in computer science?

If you majored in computer science as an undergraduate, you probably spent a lot of time programming and writing code. You may imagine that a computer science PhD is a lot more of the same. You would be wrong: a PhD program primarily teaches you to be a scientist, not a super-programmer.

What you will learn as a PhD is how to:

• Manage experiments, interpret results, and survive peer review
• Read and evaluate others’ research
• Develop expertise in a field
• Focus on a very narrow (but hopefully significant) area of computer science

You will spend one to two years in PhD-level courses (with an additional two years earning a master’s, if you do not already have one). Coursework may include classes in algorithms, combinatorics, and optimization; human-computer interaction; software engineering; computational biology; language and information technologies; machine learning; robotics; forensic science; biochemistry; and nanotechnology.

You will then dedicate a substantial amount of time (anywhere from two to six years, typically) to your doctoral dissertation, likely on an extremely specialized subject. What if your field of expertise becomes obsolete? Fortunately, your PhD also trains you to identify emerging fields of interest and to develop expertise through research and experimentation. You will be well positioned to pivot.

By digging deep into your specialization, you will develop an awareness and understanding of the deepest problems confronting computer science today, not only in your field but in all impacted areas. You will enjoy the satisfaction of attacking and perhaps solving important problems that few, if any, have previously considered: you will be on the cutting edge of a very important field. And you will get to do all this in the company of like-minded peers and mentors who are among the few people in the world who will understand your work. If all this sounds appealing, a PhD could be the right choice for you.

“I'm Interested in Computer Science!”

Explore these related degree programs, who is a good candidate for a computer science phd.

Obviously, candidates need an uncommon interest in, and aptitude for, computers, particularly on the highly theoretical level. This is a degree for people who want to solve new problems, not execute old solutions.

There are downsides to pursuing a PhD, and a good candidate for the degree must be comfortable with them. First, the process involves a massive time and labor commitment. While most PhDs take four to six years to complete, more than a few extend beyond a decade’s work. Your dissertation work will likely be in a very specific area, so you’ll need the perseverance to continue when your work inevitably gets boring and the endurance to complete a long and extraordinarily challenging task.

Graduate research requires a great deal of self-discipline. PhD programs are basically unstructured; you’ll be doing most of your work independently, chasing bad leads and extricating yourself from dead ends. A professor of computer science at Carnegie Mellon University warns, “Research can be very rewarding and very frustrating. Most students describe graduate school as a roller-coaster with tremendous highs and tremendous lows.” Those who require close guidance will likely struggle.

What can you do with a PhD in computer science?

We generally think of PhDs—in any field—teaching and conducting research at a university, and in fact there are academic positions available to computer science PhDs. The majority wind up elsewhere, however; according to 80000hours.org, only about 30 percent of computer science PhDs wind up working at a university, and fewer than 10 percent ultimately find tenure-track positions.

Thankfully there are other options in business, government, and nongovernmental organizations. Your first step may actually be post-doctoral study, in order to accrue further expertise to bolster your CV. In many instances, research will continue to be an important, if not the sole, focus of your work, but that’s not universally the case: according to the most recent Taulbee Study of computer science degrees, about 60 percent of new PhDs found work in research. Specializations include artificial intelligence, databases, human-computer interaction, informatics, operating systems, robotics, security, software engineering, and theory and algorithms.

The good news is, these jobs are well compensated. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the following 2017 median salaries and growth rate between 2021 and 2031 for the following professions:

Online Master of Science in Computer Science Software Engineering Concentration (no CS background required)

So… is a PhD in computer science worth it?

Let’s consider the arguments against a PhD in computer science. First, there’s all the lost income. Depending on whether you have already earned a master’s, you can spend three to 10 years earning your PhD; that’s 10 years of low stipends and serious debt accrual. Second, there’s the job market. Plum computer science positions on university faculties open rarely, and there’s a lot of competition for them. Your PhD may actually over-qualify you for some jobs in the private sector.

Finally, there’s this warning from Dittach CEO Daniel Gelertner: “University computer science departments are in miserable shape: ten years behind in a field that changes every ten minutes. Computer science departments prepare their students for academic or research careers and spurn jobs that actually pay money.”

So why pursue the PhD? Because you love computer science, love doing research, and need to be at the cutting edge of the field. You may also end up with a high-paying job as a result, but if that’s your primary goal, you may want to reconsider your plans. There are lots of easier and more reliable ways to earn a lot of money.

Questions or feedback? Email [email protected]

About the Author

Tom Meltzer began his career in education publishing at The Princeton Review, where he authored more than a dozen titles (including the company's annual best colleges guide and two AP test prep manuals) and produced the musical podcast The Princeton Review Vocab Minute. A graduate of Columbia University (English major), Tom lives in Chapel Hill, NC.

About the Editor

Tom Meltzer spent over 20 years writing and teaching for The Princeton Review, where he was lead author of the company's popular guide to colleges, before joining Noodle.

To learn more about our editorial standards, you can click here .

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2024 Best Part Time PhD in Computer Science Programs

If you’re interested in working with computers at an advanced level and solving complex technical problems in relation to operating systems, programming, and algorithms, then earning a part time PhD in Computer Science may be a beneficial path for you to consider.

With an on campus or online PhD in Computer Science , you may have access to a variety of career paths that offer higher than average salaries and positive job growth.

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A terminal degree in computer science may allow you to use your expertise to teach others, contribute to growing research and knowledge in the field, or execute tasks for an organization.

Universities Offering Part Time PhD in Computer Science Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

DePaul University

DePaul University allows part-time enrollment in its rigorous PhD in Computer and Information Sciences program. This research-based program lets students demonstrate a heightened awareness of their field and prepares them to write and defend an academic dissertation. Small classes make support from faculty highly accessible at DU.

DePaul University  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Drexel University

Drexel University has an award-winning Doctorate in Computer Science program that helps students develop expertise in computing and informatics.

Students enrolled in this part-time program conduct extensive research in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, data analytics, and much more. Students have access to research facilities and labs to assist in their learning journeys.

Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Georgia State University

Georgia State University’s PhD in Computer Science blends academic coursework, rigorous research, and dissertation studies.

The program gives students a well-rounded educational opportunity, helping them advance in the information technology field. Graduates from this program can be teachers, researchers, or leaders in the business world. Part-time students are welcome to apply.

Georgia State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Stevens Institute of Technology

Students enrolled in the Doctor of Computer Science program at the Stevens Institute of Technology are connected with experts from around the world. They learn valuable information to help them excel in this ever-growing industry. Research dissertations begin immediately at SIT, so students have the opportunity to focus on this rigorous endeavor.

Stevens Institute of Technology is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

University of Notre Dame

The PhD in Computer Science and Engineering from the University of Notre Dame focuses on the areas of artificial intelligence, algorithms and theory, nanotechnology, and much more. Students in this program have the opportunity to complete academic research related to their area of interest and become experts in the area they choose.

Notre Dame is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Part Time PhD in Computer Science

Part time doctoral programs in computer science may be offered in an online or on-campus format, but program offerings vary widely from school to school.

Doctoral programs are intended to help prepare you for advanced positions in computer science by building on existing skills and knowledge developed in bachelors- or masters-level programs. As an example, you may have earned a part time masters in computer science and are now ready to take your skills to the doctoral level in a part time program.

You may increase your understanding of operating systems, computer engineering, programming languages, and information networks, among other topics. Due to the part-time attendance structure, these programs are often ideal for working professionals who are looking to advance their education while maintaining regular employment.

Many students feel that computer science is hard , so the part-time structure may also be a good fit if you need to balance other life or family responsibilities. Pursuing a part-time PhD program in computer science may require you to complete a variety of courses.

Some of these courses may include theoretical foundations of computer science, algorithm design, software engineering, computer programming, programming languages, and data structures. Additional coursework may include calculus, software modeling, network security, machine learning, and data visualization.

Common career options with a Ph.D. in Computer Science include teaching positions at universities along with professional research roles within academic institutions, the government, or think tank organizations.

You may also find rewarding employment in positions such as computer and information systems manager, computer hardware engineer, computer network architect, software quality assurance analyst, or information security analyst.

Part-Time vs. Full-Time PhD in Computer Science

Choosing whether to attend a PhD in Computer Science part-time or full-time may depend on a variety of factors, including which format best fits into your life, how long it will take for you to complete the program, and the manner in which you will attend your classes.

You may want the flexibility of earning an online computer science degree , or you may prefer the structure that accompanies in-person learning.

Earning a doctorate in computer science generally requires the completion of 72 to 90 credits. The number of required credits may vary from school to school.

Whether you choose to study online or on-campus, you may be able to attend courses on evenings or weekends. Notably, as with the best online computer science masters degree programs, online PhD programs may offer a more flexible course structure so that you can attend online lectures whenever it fits into your schedule. With this option, you wouldn’t have to attend at a specific time on a certain date.

On the other hand, you may prefer to attend courses in-person to benefit from networking with other students or from a more structured learning environment.

Time to Completion

While part-time and full-time attendance will require you to complete the same number of credits, the two options may take varying amounts of time to complete. Studying on a part-time basis may extend the length of time required to obtain your degree.

The amount of time it takes may depend on the number of courses you are able to complete each semester. It may also depend on how long it takes for you to complete any dissertation requirements that may be needed in order to graduate.

Pros and Cons

Careers and salaries in computer science.

Expertise in the field of computer science is a skillset that can be leveraged across virtually all sectors of the economy.

You may pursue work in local and national government bodies, computer system firms, research facilities, banks and insurance companies, and nonprofit organizations. Terminal degrees in the field may also prepare you for positions in education and academia.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , positions in the field of computer and information technology earn an average of $91,250 per year and have a positive job growth rate of 11%.

A number of positions available to you with a PhD in Computer Science are expected to experience growth over the coming years.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these positions include computer network architects (5%), computer systems analysts (7%), computer and information research scientists (15%), and information security analysts (31%).

Computer Science Doctoral Courses

Coursework in a part time doctoral program in computer science may cover a wide range of topics in order to provide you with the expertise required to graduate from the terminal degree program.

• Software Engineering : This course looks at methods used in the development of software, including system design, testing, and validation.
• Computational Intelligence : This course is a review of computer intelligence foundational practices and techniques, including granular computing, data mining, and distribution.
• Operating Systems : This course is an overview of topics related to operating systems, resource management, and system implementation.
• Advanced Image Processing : You’ll take a look at image digitalization, processing, and enhancement practices as well as restoration, filtering, and segmentation.
• Network Security : This course is an advanced exploration of various areas of network security, including security standards-SSL and TLS and SET, authentication, and digital certificates.
• Modeling and Simulation : You’ll review modeling and simulation theories and applications in the field of computer science.
• Data Mining : This course is an overview of graph mining practices and algorithms, including R-MAT graph generators, PageRank, and SimRank.
• Programming Language Concepts : You’ll review programming language fundamentals, including syntax and binding times.
• Logic Programming : This course is an overview of deductive databases in applications and logic programming in computer science.
• Human-Computer Interactions : You’ll explore current and emerging trends and topics in the area of advanced computer and human interactions.

In addition to finishing all required coursework, you may need to complete a dissertation to graduate with your degree.

While admission requirements for a PhD in Computer Science part-time program may vary from school to school, some common criteria include:

• Completion of a bachelor’s or master’s degree . Some schools may allow you to apply for admission with a bachelor-level education while others may require you to hold a master’s degree.
• GRE or GMAT scores . While this requirement is becoming less common, some schools may still request your test scores in order to apply for their programs.
• Letter of reference . You may be required to submit reference letters from previous academic supervisors or employers speaking to your fit and qualifications for the program.

In addition to the above requirements, some schools may require you to complete an online application, provide a copy of your resume or CV, and write a letter of intent.

Accreditation

When a school is regionally accredited, it means that the programs offered are of high academic quality and have met a predetermined set of quality standards.

The accreditation status of a program can not only impact your ability to transfer credits to other programs but may also influence your ability to qualify for financial aid. An accredited degree may also be perceived as better quality by potential employers, and they may place higher regard on your qualifications and expertise.

You may find out if the school you’re interested in attending offers an accredited computer science PhD program by searching the U.S. Department of Education’s website .

Financial Aid

There are a number of resources available that you may be eligible for that can help cover the costs related to part time doctorate programs.

Financial aid opportunities for your PhD education may include federal or state grant and loan programs, scholarships offered by private or public organizations, or even a training program through your employer.

In some cases, the school where you obtain your PhD may also offer financial support. Depending on the school’s specific offerings, you may be able to obtain funding for the cost of tuition as well as a stipend for living expenses. This is the case even at the best computer science universities .

For more information on financial aid, you can visit the U.S. Department of Education’s website .

Should I Get a PhD in Computer Science?

Obtaining a PhD in Computer Science may require you to invest time in courses such as theoretical foundations of computer science, algorithm design, software engineering, data structures, software modeling, network security, machine learning, and data visualization.

You may also undertake a great deal of research in order to complete your dissertation. If you enjoy solving complex issues and working with technology at an advanced level, then a terminal degree in computer science might be a beneficial path for you to consider.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Computer Science?

There are a variety of careers that you may pursue with a PhD in Computer Science. These include computer and information systems manager, computer and information research scientist, computer hardware engineer, computer network architect, and software quality assurance analyst.

Other career options may include software developer and programmer, information security analyst, computer systems analyst, postsecondary teacher, or network and computer system administrator. After obtaining your degree, you may be prepared to even open your own business offering consulting services.

Are There Any Part Time PhD Programs?

Yes, there are PhD programs in computer science that can be attended on a part-time basis. The specific number of credits required to graduate may vary from school to school, but PhD programs in computer science generally require you to complete between 72 to 90 credits.

The number of credits required remains the same regardless of whether you enroll on a part-time or full-time basis. Attending part-time, though, will often take you longer to complete your degree than a full-time study schedule.

Depending on the program you choose to enroll in, you may have the opportunity to attend courses online or on-campus on a part-time basis.

Does a Part Time PhD Have Value?

The educational value of a part-time PhD program should be similar to that of a full-time program. The primary difference is that a part-time PhD program will often take you longer to complete since your course load will be less per semester than the full-time option.

Other factors that may influence the value of a part-time PhD also impact the value of the full-time counterpart. One such factor may include the accreditation status of the program or school you’re attending.

How Long Does a Part Time PhD in Computer Science Take?

Traditional PhD computer science programs may require you to complete between 72 to 90 course credits. With full-time attendance, this may be completed within 3 to 5 years.

Part-time studies inevitably extend the length of time it may take for you to graduate from a program, but the specific amount of time will vary depending on the course load you have each semester. For example, if you have half of the regular course load each semester, then you can expect the program to take you twice as long to complete.

There may be other factors, though, that can influence the length of time required to complete your degree part-time. These factors may include maintaining enrollment continuously throughout the calendar year or transferring previously earned credits into your program.

Is a PhD in Computer Science Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Computer Science is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information technology jobs are set to grow at 11% over the next 10 years, faster than the average for all occupations.

Common computer science careers in this field include postsecondary computer science teacher, computer and information systems manager, computer and information research scientist, computer hardware engineer, and computer network architect.

In these positions, you may find employment within government institutions, private sector businesses, nonprofits, educational facilities, or within your own business as a self-employed consultant.

Getting Your PhD Part Time

Earning a PhD in Computer Science may offer you the opportunity for a challenging and rewarding career. You may have the ability to teach aspiring computer scientists, contribute to research in the field, or apply your knowledge in a hands-on manner for various organizations.

Part-time PhD programs in computer science may prepare you to leverage your expertise in the theoretical foundations of computer science, algorithm design, network security, and data structures, among other areas.

If you’re interested in advancing your career in this rewarding field, then you may want to research various accredited, part-time PhD computer science programs to find the one that best suits your schedule and your professional goals.