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CSStipendRankings: PhD Stipend Rankings

CSStipendRankings is a stipend-based ranking of top-paying computer science departments in US. We may implement support for other countries and you are welcomed to contribute! For a real academic ranking, please refer to CSRankings . For reviewing individual PhD advisors, please refer to PI Review .

• Stipend is the minimal amount of pre-tax allowance graciously granted by the institution to its PhD students. Currently, we support displaying (1) the stipend received by the majority of students , (2) the minimal guaranteed stipend , and (3) the stipend that students receive during the semester only . Note that some departments do not have guaranteed summer funding , and we are currently working to collect such data. For now, this data is not complete.
• Fees are annual non-reimbursible tariffs (including health insurance) reclaimed by said institution. See why health insurance is included in here. If the institution charges a CPT fee or summer enrollment fee for international students, they should also be counted here. In short, this should be the maximum possible fee that the institution charges.
• Living cost is calculated based on the MIT Living Wage Calculator for the institution's city. See why we use this calculator and its limitations in here .
• summer-gtd , indicating summer funding is guaranteed in this department.
• varies , indicating the amount of funding varies from advisor to advisor in this department.
• no-guarantee , indicating this department does not guarantee any funding at all (at least for a subset of its enrolled PhD students, where a PhD student is defined as a graduate student who is required to conduct research under an advisor to graduate and get a degree). Anyone who can prove this is welcomed and encouraged to submit an issue, and we will add this label immediately. See the reason here .
• cpt-fee , indicating international students in this department need to pay a fee for their CPT applications.
• striking , indicating this department is currently under a strike.
• , indicating the stipend is verified for the semesters, but not for the summer. This icon also serves as a hyperlink to the document used for verification, if the document is uploaded to a publicly accessible location, such as GitHub issues.
• , indicating we have a survey for this department. If you are a PhD student at this department, please click the icon to fill it.

To raise issues/comments : We believe issues and comments should be discussed and resolved publicly on GitHub for transparency. If you believe any data is inaccurate or have additional comments, please open an issue or a pull request . The maintainers will not respond to private messages sent to their personal or university accounts regarding this website.

* We have noticed discrepancies in the data reported for this university or department, and we suspect that it may not be entirely accurate. If you have access to more reliable information, we would appreciate it if you could share it with us.

This ranking is part informational and part satire, designed to democratize information on how PhD students in computer science and related areas are paid for their labor – inadequately , in most cases.

Most of the frontend code of this website is from CSRankings , and we intentionally used the same template. The code of this website can be found at https://github.com/CSStipendRankings/CSStipendRankings , and the data presented can be found as a CSV file here .

Contributing: Everyone is welcomed to submit patches or report the stipend via pull requests . Also, feel free to submit issues on GitHub . We encourage submitting datapoints through issues due to its ability to facilitate public discussion. Additionally, it provides the advantage of creating a hyperlink on the checkmark that directs to the corresponding issue. In most cases, we will respond to a submitted issue within a few days.

Frequent-Asked Questions: Please see FAQs here .

Disclaimer: CSStipendRankings is designed to highlight stipend situations across various institutions, based on user-submitted information. We try our best to verify their accuracy, but we cannot guarantee they are correct or up-to-date. Ultimately, while we hope you find this information useful, this should not be used as the primary basis for grad school decisions . We advocate users to do their own research before making life decisions.

THIS SOFTWARE AND INFORMATION IS PROVIDED BY THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS AND CONTRIBUTORS “AS IS” AND ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE DISCLAIMED. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE COPYRIGHT HOLDER OR CONTRIBUTORS BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR SERVICES; LOSS OF USE, DATA, OR PROFITS; OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTION) HOWEVER CAUSED AND ON ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, STRICT LIABILITY, OR TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE) ARISING IN ANY WAY OUT OF THE USE OF THIS SOFTWARE, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGE.

CSStipendRankings is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License . The frontend (i.e., CSS and HTML) of this website is based on code licensed from CSRankings, a work at https://github.com/emeryberger/CSrankings . The copyright of CSRankings is owned by Emery Berger . The copyright of the non-CSRankings part of CSStipendRankings is owned by its contributors .

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Phd computer science salary in the united states.

How much does a Phd Computer Science make in the United States? The salary range for a Phd Computer Science job is from $92,593 to $138,247 per year in the United States. Click on the filter to check out Phd Computer Science job salaries by hourly, weekly, biweekly, semimonthly, monthly, and yearly.

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Employees: Use this as a guide for salary expectations, but be aware that responsibilities can change across companies for the same job title, so there may be differences between this data, other free site and our subscription products bought by employers.

Employers: This data could be used as reference point in your market pricing, but not the only source, due to differences across jobs locations, and sizes of companies.Consider additional sources like our Employer reported data.

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Highest Paying Cities for Phd Computer Science in the United States

States with higher salaries for phd computer science, how much do similar professions get paid in the united states, how much should you be earning, what does a phd computer science do.

Topics of study for a PhD in Computer Science may include information security, database systems, compilers, software engineering, and computational theory.

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.

Whilst the most common first degree is Computer Science, we also consider students with backgrounds in an appropriate subject for the research topic (e.g.

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.

Learners can devote their studies to general computer science or choose a specialty area, such as one of the following:.

Next, you’ll gain a broad understanding of fundamental research issues in major areas of computer science through coursework and original research.

View Job Skills and Competency Data for more than 15,000 Job Titles, 18 Industries, and 26 Job Families.

Most Common Benefits for Phd Computer Science

Related companies for phd computer science in the united states, frequently asked questions, do i receive fair pay as a phd computer science currently, what are the responsibilities of a phd computer science, how much do similar jobs to phd computer science make.

• Professor of Computer Science
• Data Science Phd
• Phd Material Science
• College Instructor - Computer Science
• University Instructor - Computer Science
• College Professor - Computer Science
• University Professor - Computer Science

Where can I get a higher Phd Computer Science salary in the United States?

What is the phd computer science's salary range in the united states, career insights.

Median Starting Salaries (by Institution): Computer Science

Salary (by major) data was collected from the U.S. Department of Education’s (USDOE) College Scorecard platform and indicates the median salary of an institution’s graduates  two years  after receiving their  bachelor’s degree in computer science , along with the number of graduates per institution for which the USDOE has salary data. Since the USDOE focuses only on early-career salaries, we limit the salary tables on our Dataverse to “pre-professional” majors where students are more likely to pursue employment immediately after graduation (e.g., as opposed to attending graduate school) and within their undergraduate field of study.

*Note that the USDOE is not able to disclose salary data by major for all institutions offering a major in this area. For example, if a group of individuals within a certain institution is too small, the USDOE must suppress salary data in order to prevent identification of the group’s individuals.

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Phd In Data Science Salaries: What You Can Expect To Earn

A PhD in data science qualifies you for some of the most prestigious and high-paying jobs in tech. But exact salaries can vary significantly based on your specialization, industry, location and experience. Understanding the earning potential can help you evaluate if a PhD is worthwhile.

If you’re short on time, here’s the key takeaway: Data scientists with a PhD earn median salaries between $130,000 to $165,000, with top earners making $200,000 or more annually .

Average Salary Ranges for Data Science PhDs

When it comes to pursuing a PhD in Data Science, one of the key factors that potential students consider is the earning potential. Data Science is a rapidly growing field that offers lucrative career opportunities, and the salaries for professionals with a PhD in Data Science can be quite impressive.

National median salaries

The national median salary for individuals with a PhD in Data Science is around $120,000 per year. This figure represents the midpoint of the salary range, with some professionals earning significantly higher salaries based on their level of experience, expertise, and the industry they work in.

According to recent studies, data scientists with a PhD can earn anywhere between $90,000 to $180,000 per year, depending on various factors such as location, industry, and company size.

Salaries by major cities and regions

Salaries for data science PhDs can vary significantly based on the city or region in which you work. For example, major tech hubs like San Francisco, New York City, and Seattle tend to offer higher salaries due to the high demand for data scientists and the cost of living in these areas.

On the other hand, cities with a lower cost of living may offer slightly lower salaries.

According to a survey conducted by Glassdoor , the average salary for data scientists with a PhD in San Francisco is around $145,000 per year, while in New York City, it’s approximately $135,000 per year.

In contrast, in cities like Atlanta or Austin, the average salary might be around $120,000 per year.

Variance across industries and companies

The industry and company you work for also play a significant role in determining your salary as a data science PhD. Industries such as finance, healthcare, and technology tend to offer higher salaries due to the high demand for data-driven insights and analytics.

Big tech companies like Google, Facebook, and Amazon are known for offering competitive salaries to data science PhDs. On the other hand, start-ups and smaller companies may offer slightly lower salaries but provide other perks like equity or flexible work arrangements.

According to a study published by PayScale , the average salary for data science PhDs in the finance industry is around $150,000 per year, while in the healthcare industry, it’s approximately $140,000 per year.

However, it’s important to note that these figures can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the specific role within the industry.

Factors That Influence Salary

Academic focus or specialization.

One of the key factors that influence the salary of a PhD in Data Science is their academic focus or specialization. Data Science is a vast field with various sub-disciplines, such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and more.

Specializing in a high-demand area can significantly increase earning potential. For example, professionals with expertise in machine learning algorithms and predictive modeling are in high demand and can command higher salaries.

Industry and type of employer

The industry and type of employer also play a crucial role in determining the salary of a PhD in Data Science. Different industries have different demands for data scientists, and some industries, such as finance, healthcare, and technology, tend to offer higher salaries due to the complexity and volume of data they deal with.

Additionally, working for large companies or research institutions may lead to higher salaries compared to smaller organizations.

Cost of living and location

The cost of living and location can have a significant impact on the salary of a PhD in Data Science. Salaries can vary greatly depending on the region and city where the professional is employed. For instance, data scientists working in cities with a high cost of living, such as San Francisco or New York, may earn higher salaries to offset the higher expenses.

On the other hand, data scientists working in smaller cities or regions with a lower cost of living may have a lower salary.

Years of experience

Experience is another crucial factor that influences the salary of a PhD in Data Science. As professionals gain more experience and expertise in the field, their earning potential tends to increase. Data scientists with several years of experience may have a higher salary compared to those who are just starting their careers.

Additionally, professionals who have a track record of successful projects and achievements may be able to negotiate higher salaries.

Roles and Titles for PhDs

Obtaining a PhD in Data Science opens up a wide range of career opportunities. Let’s explore some of the roles and titles that PhD holders in this field can expect to pursue.

Data Scientist

The role of a data scientist is highly sought after in today’s data-driven world. Data scientists are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting large sets of complex data to uncover valuable insights and drive decision-making.

They use various statistical and machine learning techniques to develop models and algorithms that can predict future trends and patterns. According to Glassdoor , the average salary for a data scientist with a PhD is around $120,000 per year.

Research Scientist

A research scientist with a PhD in Data Science focuses on conducting advanced research and development in the field. They work on cutting-edge projects, exploring new algorithms, and developing innovative solutions to complex data problems.

Research scientists often publish their findings in academic journals and contribute to the advancement of the field. The average salary for a research scientist can range from $90,000 to $150,000 per year, depending on experience and industry.

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine learning engineers are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the infrastructure and systems that power machine learning models. They work closely with data scientists and software engineers to deploy and scale machine learning algorithms in real-world applications.

Machine learning engineers also optimize and fine-tune models to improve their performance. According to Payscale , the average salary for a machine learning engineer with a PhD can range from $100,000 to $150,000 per year.

Analytics Lead/Director

As an analytics lead or director, PhD holders in Data Science take on managerial roles where they oversee data analytics teams and projects. They are responsible for defining the strategic direction of analytics initiatives, setting goals, and ensuring that projects are executed successfully.

Analytics leads/directors collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify business opportunities and develop data-driven strategies. The average salary for an analytics lead or director can range from $120,000 to $200,000 per year, depending on the size and industry of the organization.

These are just a few examples of the roles and titles that PhD holders in Data Science can pursue. The field is rapidly growing, and there is a high demand for skilled professionals who can leverage data to drive innovation and make informed decisions.

With the right skills and qualifications, a PhD in Data Science can open up exciting and lucrative career opportunities.

Career Advancement and Growth

Obtaining a PhD in Data Science can open up a world of career advancement and growth opportunities. With the increasing demand for data professionals in various industries, individuals with advanced degrees in data science are highly sought after.

Here are some ways in which a PhD in Data Science can propel your career:

Move into leadership/executive positions

One of the major benefits of having a PhD in Data Science is the opportunity to move into leadership or executive positions within an organization. With your advanced knowledge and expertise in data analysis and interpretation, you can take on roles such as Chief Data Officer or Data Science Director.

These positions often come with higher salaries and greater responsibilities, allowing you to have a significant impact on the strategic direction of the company.

Manage teams of data professionals

As a PhD holder in Data Science, you will have the ability to lead and manage teams of data professionals. This can involve overseeing the work of data analysts, data engineers, and data scientists, ensuring that projects are executed efficiently and effectively.

By managing a team, you can not only contribute to the success of the organization but also develop your leadership and managerial skills, which are highly valued in the industry.

Consulting and freelance opportunities

With a PhD in Data Science, you can also explore consulting and freelance opportunities. Many companies and organizations are in need of data experts to help them make sense of their data and provide insights for decision-making.

As a consultant or freelancer, you have the flexibility to work on a variety of projects with different clients, allowing you to continuously sharpen your skills and expand your network. This can lead to exciting and lucrative opportunities in the field.

According to a study conducted by Bureau of Labor Statistics , the demand for data scientists is projected to grow by 16% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This indicates a promising outlook for those pursuing a career in the field of data science, especially for those with advanced degrees such as a PhD.

Other Benefits Beyond Salary

Expert status in a top field.

One of the major benefits of earning a PhD in Data Science is the expert status it confers upon you in a rapidly growing and highly sought-after field. With a PhD, you become a recognized authority in the world of data science, which can open doors to exciting career opportunities and prestigious positions.

Employers value the depth of knowledge and expertise that comes with a PhD, and this can lead to rewarding projects, collaborations, and leadership roles within organizations.

Opportunities for publications

Another advantage of pursuing a PhD in Data Science is the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of knowledge through research publications. As a PhD student, you will have the chance to conduct original research and publish your findings in reputable journals and conferences.

Publishing your work not only adds to the body of knowledge in the field, but it also enhances your professional reputation and can increase your chances of securing high-profile positions or academic research roles.

Additionally, having publications to your name can be a valuable asset when applying for grants and funding for future projects.

Job security and flexibility

Having a PhD in Data Science can provide a sense of job security and flexibility in the ever-evolving job market. Data scientists with advanced degrees are in high demand across industries, as organizations increasingly rely on data-driven insights to make strategic decisions.

The specialized skills and knowledge gained during a PhD program make you a valuable asset in industries such as technology, healthcare, finance, and consulting. Furthermore, the versatility of a PhD in Data Science allows you to explore various career paths, including academia, industry research, consulting, and entrepreneurship.

According to a survey conducted by Burtch Works , data scientists with PhDs tend to earn higher salaries compared to those with master’s degrees. However, it is important to note that the benefits of a PhD in Data Science extend beyond monetary compensation.

The expert status, opportunities for publications, and job security and flexibility that come with a PhD make it a worthwhile investment for those passionate about the field of data science.

A PhD in data science can unlock high-paying, advanced career opportunities in data and analytics. While salaries vary based on specialization, location, and employer, data scientists with doctoral degrees can expect to earn well into six figures.

Beyond competitive pay, a data science PhD also brings prestige, flexibility, and the chance to be a leader in an increasingly critical domain. Weighing salaries alongside other benefits can help determine if pursuing this advanced degree is the right move to maximize your career potential.

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2021-2022 (August 2021 - December 2021 - May 2022) Placement Results

Computer Science majors are very successful in the employment market, and there is currently great demand for their skills in a variety of industries. 

The Department of Computer Science BS graduation survey is based on self-reported information submitted by 286 of our total 369 graduates (77.5%). All questions were not answered by all respondents.

Of the students reporting employment, 59% received a bonus and/or relocation allowances. For the 2021-2022 graduating class, the average self-reported starting salary for a CS undergrad was $105,456. 

Range of Bonus offers: Midwest - $2,000 - $75,000 West - $2,000 - $50,260

Below is a sampling of companies where students took positions in 2021-2022.

Whether you want to work in a small or large company, there is a position for you. Our students accept positions at a range of companies -- from very large organizations like Microsoft, Facebook, Amazon, and Google to startup companies.

2022 BS self-reported internship results:

Reported from 130 students, this is a sampling of where BS students accepted internships in May 2022.

Average salary $31.09 per hour Range: $6.00 - $104.00 per hour

2021-2022 BS CSDS self-reported placement results:

2021-2022 MS self-reported placement results:

2021-2022 PhD self-reported placement results:

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100,000+ reasons why the Tech Equity partnership wants to help Nashville learn to code

Brian Kimbrow talks about learning code with the determination you’d expect from a former SEC running back.

It’s not easy. Far from it. 

Yet Kimbrow embraced months of technology training last year with CodeX Academy, taking time to learn something that at first read like a foreign language. 

And now, with support from a host of local business leaders, he’s inching closer to scoring a full-time gig as a full stack developer or software engineer. Expected entry-level salary: north of $100,000.

“If it’s something that you see that you want to achieve, accomplish, you can as long as you put your mind to it and remember that nothing is easy,” said Kimbrow, 31, a former student-athlete at Vanderbilt from 2012-15.

He's one of more than 500 CodeX Academy students, dating back to the program's launch in the fall of 2019. Then in January, he became a teacher's assistant, helping to guide the Tech Equity partnership's inaugural class of 34.

The Tech Equity partnership is supported by Amazon, the Tennessee Titans, Nashville Predators, Nashville Soccer Club, Vanderbilt University, Nashville State Community College and Tony Giarratana. These local employers connect with students hailing from underserved and underrepresented communities in North Nashville and Antioch, getting a first look at potential job candidates.

"Most companies will train and graduate — 'OK, good luck. Let us know how you do,'" said Phil Henry, the CEO of CodeX Academy. 

"We want to take it a step further and hold their hands throughout the entire process. To make sure they get proper, all-around training and help with soft skills that will help them get in the door."

The annual cost of the virtual program is $146,000, funded by a collection of local grants. 

"When schools, community organizations and for-profit entities work together to support learning, everyone benefits," said Stephanie Stanton, the senior DEI program manager for Community Engagement, Amazon Talent Acquisition. Stanton leads and manages Amazon’s partnership with CodeX Academy.

"Investing in the continued upskilling of residents creates a stronger workforce and also serves to keep the talent local."

Are tech jobs hiring in Nashville?

Software developer jobs are expected to be one of the most sought-after occupations during the next decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with the growth rate increasing 26% between 2022-32. Meanwhile, jobs are estimated to demand a median pay of approximately $127,000 annually. 

Last year, the U.S. added 136,000 tech jobs.

While coding jobs are typically remote, some U.S. cities have become hubs for tech professionals. San Francisco/San Jose, Seattle, Denver, Austin, Boston and Washington D.C. top most lists, but Nashville's focus on healthcare, music and startups is increasing local opportunities.

Last year, Tennessee averaged more than 6,800 computer jobs each month with an average salary of $90,354, according to the 2023 State of Computer Science Education.

These Tennessee high school students are required to take a computer science class to graduate

In Tennessee, the Class of 2028 will mark the first group of public students required to take a computer science class to earn a high school diploma. Yet the state legislation has already made an impact.

More than 22,000 high school students took foundational computer science during the 2022-2023 school year, according to the 2023 State of Computer Science Education — nearly double the total of previous periods. And Tennessee is one of nine states where more middle school students were enrolled in computer science than high school students.

Is math required for tech jobs? Answers

Andrew Becker disapproves when adolescents say someone is naturally good at computer science. 

Hang on, he tells them, using himself as an example. He’s spent a lot of time in libraries; studying with peers; meeting with tutors; utilizing digital resources. An incremental journey from struggling to learning to thriving and much, much later, mastering. 

“Those advanced degrees didn’t come cheap,” joked Becker who teaches computer science at Antioch High. He was also the MNPS teacher last fall to work with Stanford University in a dual enrollment course which taught students the basics of computer science, along with coding and programming.

Count Becker as another professional who said mastering math is not the top prerequisite for a career in tech. Also, Computer Science Zone.org, which encourages careers in computer science and IT, lists the following attributes:

Self-reliance. Language. Logic.

Attention to detail. Recognition of stupidity. Abstract thinking. Patience. 

Strong memory. Scientific method. Communication and empathy.

No wonder Becker wants his students to embrace the journey, full of failures and setbacks.

"We don’t allow ourselves the ability to practice at math before we decide if we’re good or bad at it," he said. "We just say, 'Oh, I can do this, or I can't.' I have top students that take a (computer science) test — part of district testing. They can be scoring in the top of the class and not feel that they are. 

"Someone who thinks they're failing the class, but actually has some of the highest scores in the district."

Working in technology takes more than tech. After all, Henry wants his students to "wow" on interviews. That's why the Tech Equity partnership includes workforce readiness training, which helps students acquire soft skills that leave lasting impressions on hiring managers. 

Each participating company promises to support courses that prepare students with entry-level software development skills; serve as mentors and school ambassadors; offer job placement opportunities through business programs; and volunteer in-person and virtually.

"CodeX utilizes a top tier software development curriculum that teaches students the skills needed to be successful in tech roles," Stanton said. "More than that, they provide career preparation and soft-skills training resources to ensure students can navigate corporate spaces effectively inclusive of how to effectively communicate, how to elevate personal brand and how to discuss the impact of their work."

Sounds a lot like Kimbrow.

The Memphis native, who previously completed the technology training, is now matriculating through workforce readiness training. He's expected to wrap up this training around the time the inaugural Tech Equity partnership class graduates in September.

Henry expects the next Tech Equity partnership class of 50-70 students to start in January 2025.

Meanwhile, Kimbrow's career goal is to not just to enter the tech space, but create a running lane for others to rush through.

Gary Estwick is the business, race and culture editor at The Tennessean. Reach him at [email protected].