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Top 10 Best PhD in Computer Science Programs

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Best Computer Science PhD Programs and Universities

Stanford university.

PhD in Computer Science

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

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

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

PhD in Computer Science and Engineering

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

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

Carnegie Mellon University, School of Computer Sciences

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

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

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

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

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

Duke University, The Graduate School

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

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

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

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

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

California Institute of Technology, Computing & Mathematical Sciences Department

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

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

Cornell University, Bowers College of Computing and Information Science

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

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

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

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

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

Princeton University, The Graduate School

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

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

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

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

What to Consider When Choosing a Computer Science PhD Program

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

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

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

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

Related Reading:  Top 10 Best Online PhDs in Computer Science

Why Get a Doctor of Computer Science Degree?

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

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

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

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

PhD in Computer Science: Key Facts

How much does a phd in computer science cost.

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

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

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

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

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

Key Takeaways

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a phd in computer science like.

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

Can You Get a PhD in Computer Science?

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

Is a PhD in Computer Science Worth It?

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

What Does a PhD in Computer Science Do?

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

What Can I Do with a PhD in Computer Science?

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

Which Subject is Best for a PhD in Computer Science?

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

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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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.

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Computer Science, Ph.D.

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We have a thriving Ph.D. program with approximately 80 full-time Ph.D. students hailing from all corners of the world. Most full-time Ph.D. students have scholarships that cover tuition and provide a monthly stipend. Admission is highly competitive. We seek creative, articulate students with undergraduate and master's degrees from top universities worldwide. Our  current research strengths  include data management and analysis, cybersecurity, computer games, visualization, web search, graphics, vision and image processing, and theoretical computer science.

This degree program offers interested students opportunities to do their research abroad, under the supervision of faculty at NYU Shanghai or  NYU Abu Dhabi .

• View the Computer Science Ph.D. program flyer
• Admissions requirements for the Ph.D. Program.
• Find out more about general  Admission Requirements .

To receive a Ph.D. in Computer Science at the NYU Tandon School of Engineering, a student must:

• satisfy a breadth course requirement, intended to ensure broad knowledge of computer science,
• satisfy a depth requirement, consisting of an oral qualifying exam presentation with a written report, to ensure the student's ability to do research,
• submit a written thesis proposal and make an oral presentation about the proposal,
• write a Ph.D. thesis that must be approved by a dissertation guidance committee and present an oral thesis defense, and
• satisfy all School of Engineering requirements for the Ph.D. degree, as described in the NYU Tandon School of Engineering bulletin, including graduate study duration, credit points, GPA, and time-to-degree requirements.

Upon entering the program, each student will be assigned an advisor who will guide them in formulating an individual study plan directing their course choice for the first two years. The department will hold an annual Ph.D. Student Assessment Meeting, in which all Ph.D. students will be formally reviewed.

Note: for pre-fall 2015 Ph.D. students, please see the pre-fall 2015 Ph.D. Curriculum.

Program Requirements

Details about Breadth and Depth Requirements, Thesis Proposal and Presentation, and Thesis Defense can be found in the NYU Bulletin.

Program Details

Each incoming Ph.D. student will be assigned to a research advisor, or to an interim advisor, who will provide academic advising until the student has a research advisor. The advisor will meet with the student when the student enters the program to guide the student in formulating an Individual Study Plan. The purpose of the plan is to guide the student’s course choice for the first two years in the program and to ensure that the student meets the breadth requirements. The plan may also specify additional courses to be taken by the student in order to acquire necessary background and expertise. Subsequent changes to the plan must be approved by the advisor.

Sample Plan of Study

In order to obtain a Ph.D. degree, a student must complete a minimum of 75 credits of graduate work beyond the BS degree, including at least 21 credits of dissertation. A Master of Science in Computer Science may be transferred as 30 credits without taking individual courses into consideration. Other graduate coursework in Computer Science may be transferred on a course-by-course basis. Graduate coursework in areas other than Computer Science can be transferred on a course-by-course basis with approval of the Ph.D. Committee (PHDC). The School of Engineering places some limits on the number and types of transfer credits that are available. Applications for transfer credits must be submitted for consideration before the end of the first semester of matriculation. 

All Ph.D. students will be formally reviewed each year in a Ph.D. Student Assessment Meeting. The review is conducted by the entire CSE faculty and includes at least the following items (in no particular order):

• All courses taken, grades received, and GPAs.
• Research productivity: publications, talks, software, systems, etc.
• Faculty input, especially from advisors and committee members.
• Student’s own input.
• Cumulative history of the student's progress.

As a result of the review, each student will be placed in one of the following two categories, by vote of the faculty:

• In Good Standing: The student has performed well in the previous semester and may continue in the Ph.D. program for one more year, assuming satisfactory academic progress is maintained.
• Not in Good Standing: The student has not performed sufficiently well in the previous year. The consequences of not being in good standing will vary, and may include being placed on probation, losing RA/GA/TA funding, or not being allowed to continue in the Ph.D. program.

Following the review, students will receive formal letters which will inform them of their standing. The letters may also make specific recommendations to the student as to what will be expected of them in the following year. A copy of each student’s letter will be placed in the student’s file.

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Computer Science Ph.D. Program

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

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

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

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

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

FAQ with more information about the two campuses .

Ph.D. Program Structure

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Academics | PhD Program

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

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

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

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

Program Requirements

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

Progress Guidelines

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

Monitoring Progress

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

Doctor of Computer Science Programs in America

1-25 of 111 results

MIT School of Engineering

Cambridge, MA •

Massachusetts Institute of Technology •

Graduate School

Massachusetts Institute of Technology ,

Graduate School ,

CAMBRIDGE, MA ,

Stanford School of Engineering

Stanford, CA •

Stanford University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   3 reviews

Current Master's student: The best part about coming to Stanford are the people and the ability to find a group of friends who are interested in the same things that you may be very interested in . Coming from India, there is a large Indian community here such that I have never felt homesick. The campus does get a bit dead during the holidays but it is to be expected as people who do live in the USA, go back for vacations. Overall the professors are great and are leafing professionals in their respective fields doing some of the most fascinating research in the world. I would highly anyone to come here to experience this type o f workhand play hard culture that is fostered into this place. ... Read 3 reviews

Stanford University ,

STANFORD, CA ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says The best part about coming to Stanford are the people and the ability to find a group of friends who are interested in the same things that you may be very interested in . Coming from India, there... Overall the professors are great and are leafing professionals in their respective fields doing some of the most fascinating research in the world. I would highly anyone to come here to experience... .

Read 3 reviews.

Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

Harvard University •

Harvard University ,

Florida Institute of Technology

Graduate School •

MELBOURNE, FL

• • Rating 4.6 out of 5   65

School of Computing and Information - University of Pittsburgh

University of Pittsburgh •

PITTSBURGH, PA

• • Rating 2.5 out of 5   2

Lehigh University

BETHLEHEM, PA

• • Rating 4.42 out of 5   19

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ •

• • Rating 4.33 out of 5   3 reviews

Master's Student: The best part of the Princeton University mechanical engineering graduate degree is the excellent faculty that teach the courses. They are incredibly knowledgeable and also very willing to help students in office hours or in sponsorship of projects. The worst part of the Princeton University mechanical engineering graduate degree is the lack of structure for the graduate research program which can leave you feeling unsure on the direction of your research. ... Read 3 reviews

PRINCETON, NJ ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The best part of the Princeton University mechanical engineering graduate degree is the excellent faculty that teach the courses. They are incredibly knowledgeable and also very willing to help... .

Pratt School of Engineering

Durham, NC •

Duke University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: New program, Financial Technology, is a comprehensive curriculum bringing together financial principles and computing. Interesting electives and flexibility to create your own tract, incorporating courses from all of Duke's colleges. ... Read 2 reviews

Duke University ,

DURHAM, NC ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says New program, Financial Technology, is a comprehensive curriculum bringing together financial principles and computing. Interesting electives and flexibility to create your own tract, incorporating... .

Read 2 reviews.

Brown University Graduate School

Providence, RI •

Brown University •

Brown University ,

PROVIDENCE, RI ,

• Find college scholarships

McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science

Evanston, IL •

Northwestern University •

Master's Student: Northwestern's Master of Science in Energy and Sustainability is a first of its kind professionally focused master's program in the nation. Interdisciplinary by design, MSES covers the technical, policy, and business/economics of the energy and sustainability sector pulling professors from the Kellogg School of Management as well as the McCormick School of Engineering. The industry professionals are leaders in their respective fields and are always willing to help the students. The cohort focused program enables deep connection among the students that will last a lifetime! ... Read 3 reviews

Northwestern University ,

EVANSTON, IL ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says Northwestern's Master of Science in Energy and Sustainability is a first of its kind professionally focused master's program in the nation. Interdisciplinary by design, MSES covers the technical,... .

Vanderbilt School of Engineering

Nashville, TN •

Vanderbilt University •

Vanderbilt University ,

NASHVILLE, TN ,

McKelvey School of Engineering

St. Louis, MO •

Washington University in St. Louis •

Washington University in St. Louis ,

ST. LOUIS, MO ,

Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies

Hanover, NH •

Dartmouth College •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

Alum: I had a beautiful life-changing experience at the grand Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies. The Guarini graduate program MALS created so many beautiful opportunities in interdisciplinary learning. Guarini is well integrated within the College, which provides a unique world-class learning experience. Guarini went beyond my expectations and made this experience the best I had and will ever have in my life. The only thing I would like changed is having a GRAD diploma in Latin instead of English to keep up with College tradition. ... Read 1 review

Dartmouth College ,

HANOVER, NH ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says I had a beautiful life-changing experience at the grand Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies. The Guarini graduate program MALS created so many beautiful opportunities in interdisciplinary... .

Read 1 reviews.

Division of Engineering and Applied Science - California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA •

California Institute of Technology •

California Institute of Technology ,

PASADENA, CA ,

Physical Sciences Division - University of Chicago

Chicago, IL •

University of Chicago •

Master's Student: The masters in computer science at UChicago has an opportunity for students from nontraditional computer science backgrounds to take “immersion courses” to get up to speed before taking the masters level coursework, which is extremely inclusive programming. The program is also a top competitor and prepares students for professional careers. ... Read 1 review

University of Chicago ,

CHICAGO, IL ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says The masters in computer science at UChicago has an opportunity for students from nontraditional computer science backgrounds to take “immersion courses” to get up to speed before taking the masters... .

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Viterbi School of Engineering

Los Angeles, CA •

University of Southern California •

Master's Student: Best experience is that I have the ability to engage with other students and my professors in real time. My worst experience would have to be; moments of not being able to hear what is being talked about during a lecture due to classroom audio issues. ... Read 2 reviews

University of Southern California ,

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says Best experience is that I have the ability to engage with other students and my professors in real time. My worst experience would have to be; moments of not being able to hear what is being talked about during a lecture due to classroom audio issues. .

Cornell Tech

New York, NY •

Cornell University •

• • Rating 4.25 out of 5   4 reviews

Current Master's student: Cornell Tech has a fantastic campus, the programs here are very industry-friendly and the professors are very experienced. ... Read 4 reviews

Cornell University ,

NEW YORK, NY ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says Cornell Tech has a fantastic campus, the programs here are very industry-friendly and the professors are very experienced. .

Read 4 reviews.

Graduate School of Arts & Sciences - Georgetown University

Nw Washington, DC •

Georgetown University •

Master's Student: The program is highly practical. The professors explain concepts in class and give us home works to submit on each topic discussed on a weekly basis. This enables us to grasp the concepts more. We are informed of the professors office time and so we can email them to make inquiries and get assistance when needed. We make presentations during class which train us to become more bold and be able to communicate the concepts easily. We are able to discuss and critic writings independently. We work on projects in groups of about 3-4 and discuss findings to the entire class and professor. We review research papers and make meta-analyses inform of class projects. The program is well structured and i am gaining skills. My worst experience is having to worry about Tuition and other related school bills. ... Read 2 reviews

Georgetown University ,

NW WASHINGTON, DC ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says The program is highly practical. The professors explain concepts in class and give us home works to submit on each topic discussed on a weekly basis. This enables us to grasp the concepts more. We... .

Tufts University School of Engineering

Medford, MA •

Tufts University •

Master's Student: The application process was smooth and post-acceptance I was welcomed into the Tufts community. So far, Tufts has been very communicative, especially about the return to school during the Covid-19 pandemic. ... Read 3 reviews

Blue checkmark.

Tufts University ,

MEDFORD, MA ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says The application process was smooth and post-acceptance I was welcomed into the Tufts community. So far, Tufts has been very communicative, especially about the return to school during the Covid-19... .

Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science

University of California - Los Angeles •

University of California - Los Angeles ,

School of Computer Science - Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA •

Carnegie Mellon University •

Carnegie Mellon University ,

PITTSBURGH, PA ,

Laney Graduate School

Atlanta, GA •

Emory University •

Master's Student: I chose the graduate programs at Emory because they are ranked among the best in the country. The school of nursing also provides the clinical experiences, something many of the online only nurse practitioner programs do not do. ... Read 2 reviews

Emory University ,

ATLANTA, GA ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says I chose the graduate programs at Emory because they are ranked among the best in the country. The school of nursing also provides the clinical experiences, something many of the online only nurse... .

College of Computing - Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Institute of Technology •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

Master's Student: The masters data analytics program is VERY intense! I was warned that the online program would be just as intense as the in person program, but to me it's on a whole different level. I am only taking one class because I have a full time job and I am a single parent and I have had many late nights and early mornings. It's challenging, but if you love coding, I would recommended it. If you can get through COVID as a parent, I believe that there is nothing (like this masters program) that you would not be able to accomplish and be successful at it. ... Read 1 review

Georgia Institute of Technology ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The masters data analytics program is VERY intense! I was warned that the online program would be just as intense as the in person program, but to me it's on a whole different level. I am only... .

UC Berkeley College of Letters & Science

Berkeley, CA •

University of California - Berkeley •

University of California - Berkeley ,

BERKELEY, CA ,

College of Arts & Sciences - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC •

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill •

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ,

CHAPEL HILL, NC ,

P.C. Rossin College of Engineering & Applied Science

Bethlehem, PA •

Lehigh University •

Lehigh University ,

BETHLEHEM, PA ,

Metropolitan College - Boston University

Boston, MA •

Boston University •

• • Rating 4.69 out of 5   13 reviews

Master's Student: Excellent guidance and resources for new students. Very responsive staff across departments. Additional supplementary instruction to ensure students have the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in their courses. ... Read 13 reviews

Boston University ,

BOSTON, MA ,

13 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Excellent guidance and resources for new students. Very responsive staff across departments. Additional supplementary instruction to ensure students have the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed... .

Read 13 reviews.

Grainger College of Engineering

Urbana, IL •

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign •

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign ,

URBANA, IL ,

University of Pittsburgh

• • Rating 4.43 out of 5   74

School of Arts & Sciences - Clarkson University

Clarkson University •

POTSDAM, NY

College of Engineering and Physical Sciences - University of Wyoming

University of Wyoming •

LARAMIE, WY

Showing results 1 through 25 of 111

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Phd program, find your passion for research.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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PhD in Computer Science

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

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

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

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

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

Application information & deadlines

December 15, 2023, computer science.

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

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Academics   /   Graduate PhD in Computer Science

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

Joining a Track

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

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Computer Engineering

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

Learn more about computer science research areas

Curriculum and Requirements

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

CS PhD Manual Apply now

Request More Information

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

Request info about the PhD degree

Opportunities for PhD Students

Cognitive science certificate.

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

The Crown Family Graduate Internship Program

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

Management for Scientists and Engineers Certificate Program

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

Career Paths

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

• Georgia Institute of Technology
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• Naval Research Laboratory
• Northwestern University

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• Adobe Research
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What Students Are Saying

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

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

— Brian Suchy, PhD Candidate, Computer Systems

What Alumni Are Saying

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

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

Read an alumni profile of Yiding Feng

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

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

Read an alumni profile of Maxwell Crouse

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

— Vaidehi Srinivas, PhD Candidate, CS Theory

Best Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Programs

Tessa Cooper

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

ASO Rankings Team

Updated September 15, 2023

Hannah Muniz

Contributing Editor

Reviewed by

Victoria Ivy Southall

Contributing Reviewer

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Take our quiz and we'll do the homework for you! Compare your school matches and apply to your top choice today.

Computer science is a popular major , especially among graduate students. According to the National Center for Education Statistics , the number of graduate students enrolled in computer science programs more than doubled between 2007 and 2019, from 48,000 to 101,000.

A Ph.D. in computer science can prepare you for a variety of high-paying tech jobs — and you can even earn the degree online. Discover the ins and outs of getting an online Ph.D. in computer science and what you can do with this valuable degree.

Reasons to Get an Online Ph.D. in Computer Science

• You can advance the computer science field by researching or teaching about complex computer science concepts.
• The flexibility of an online Ph.D. in computer science means you can continue working full time while studying.
• This advanced degree can help you network and build connections with other computer science professionals.
• A Ph.D. demonstrates your credibility and commitment to furthering the field to your peers and future employers.
• A computer science Ph.D. can help you land a role that pays more for your expertise.

Top Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Programs

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#1 Best Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Programs

Mississippi State University

• Mississippi State, MS
• Online + Campus

Mississippi State University supports three online doctoral programs from its main campus in Mississippi State, Mississippi. Doctoral students in the doctor of philosophy in computer science program complete research, coursework, and comprehensive exams, preparing them for the demands of a career. Students benefit from rigorous coursework, comprehensive exams, and research, gaining relevant skills.

The program's flexibility enables candidates to learn at their own pace or work full time while pursuing study. Doctoral candidates can expect to complete their studies in 4-6 years. The program requires that candidates complete a dissertation and contribute original research to the field.

Mississippi State University at a Glance:

Location: Mississippi State, Mississippi

School Type: Public

Admission Rate: 54%

Graduate Tuition In State: $8,800

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,840

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 95%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,316

Average Price After Aid: $16,471

#2 Best Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Programs

Nova Southeastern University

• Fort Lauderdale, FL

Professionals seeking advanced remote study in computer science should consider Nova Southeastern University's Ph.D. in computer science. The program equips learners with advanced skills and industry knowledge, applicable to careers in academia, research, and management. Typically, a doctorate is the field's highest education level attainable.

Based on their scheduling needs, online doctoral candidates can pursue full-time or part-time study. The average time from enrollment to degree completion is 4-6 years. The program requires that candidates complete a dissertation and contribute original research to the field.

Nova Southeastern University at a Glance:

Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

School Type: Private

Admission Rate: 80%

Graduate Tuition In State: $19,665

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,665

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 100%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available

Average Price After Aid: Data not available

#3 Best Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Programs

University of South Carolina-Columbia

• Columbia, SC

University of South Carolina-Columbia supports 10 online doctoral programs from its main campus in Columbia, South Carolina. The Ph.D. in computer science program equips learners with transferrable knowledge and skills suitable for positions in academia, research, and management. Upon graduation, candidates possess the highest level of education available in the computer science field.

Working professionals benefit from the program's flexible online format. Candidates can expect to earn their degree in 4-6 years, depending on enrollment status. Degree-holders contribute original research to the computer science field, especially through their dissertation.

University of South Carolina-Columbia at a Glance:

Location: Columbia, South Carolina

Admission Rate: 69%

Graduate Tuition In State: $13,737

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,760

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,282

Average Price After Aid: $21,787

#4 Best Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Programs

University of Southern California

• Los Angeles, CA

University of Southern California's online Ph.D. in computer science offers students a world-class education, preparing them for an advanced career in the field. Typically, doctoral candidates are trained for careers in academia, research, and management. Upon graduation, candidates possess the field's highest level of education.

The online modality allows doctoral candidates flexibility in learning. Candidates can complete their degree in 4-6 years, with the option for extended study with further funding. Enrollees complete a dissertation by the end of their studies, contributing original research to their field.

University of Southern California at a Glance:

Location: Los Angeles, California

Admission Rate: 11%

Graduate Tuition In State: $46,272

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $46,272

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 69%

Get Started on Your Doctorate Today

Our partner schools offer programs that help you advance your education while accommodating your schedule. Visit their sites to learn more about degrees, course offerings, start dates, transfer of credits, and more.

Why Accreditation Matters for a Ph.D. in Computer Science

Accreditation holds a lot of weight in higher education. An accredited college or program holds accountability and credibility for its educational offerings. In the U.S., recognized accrediting agencies evaluate institutions based on quality standards.

Schools can earn institutional accreditation from a national or regional accrediting agency . All legitimate accreditors will be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and/or the Department of Education.

You should also check for programmatic accreditation when researching computer science Ph.D. programs. The best Ph.D. in computer science degrees are usually accredited by ABET .

Did You Know?

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the top 10% of earners in computer and information research science made more than $208,000 in May 2021.
• The National Science Foundation lists four computer science pillars you can specialize in, like information and intelligent systems.
• The BLS projects that computer and IT jobs will grow by 15% between 2021 and 2031.

Computer Science Ph.D. Admission Requirements

• Completed application form
• Minimum GPA, often at least a 3.5
• Bachelor's degree, usually in computer science or a related field
• 2-3 letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Resume or CV

What Classes Do You Take in an Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Program?

Computer science courses translate well to an online format due to their technical nature. As a result, many computer science Ph.D. programs take place entirely online.

The classes you take as part of your program will help you develop key soft skills like strategic problem-solving and logical analysis, in addition to hard skills like computer programming. You'll also learn how to communicate research findings to diverse audiences.

Here are some sample courses you may take for an online doctorate in computer science:

• Research methods in computer science
• Accessibility through cloud computing
• Modern cybersecurity threats
• Programming languages and optimization
• Machine learning and language processing
• Quantum information theory

What Can You Do With a Ph.D. in Computer Science?

A Ph.D. in computer science can raise your salary potential and qualify you for more leadership opportunities in tech. Many computer science Ph.D.-holders make six figures working as computer scientists, computer systems analysts, and computer network architects.

The table below highlights some career paths you can follow with this degree. Note that jobs in research and business boast some of the highest salaries for computer science graduates.

Source: BLS

Computer Science Resources

American society for engineering education.

ASEE is a membership-based nonprofit that works to promote technology education.

Association for Women in Computing

Founded in 1978, AWC is a professional organization geared toward women working in technology . The group offers networking opportunities and local chapters throughout the U.S.

Computing Research Association

A membership-based organization, CRA is active in computer science departments at over 200 U.S. colleges.

Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Science Ph.D. Programs

Is it worth getting a ph.d. in computer science.

Whether it's worth getting a Ph.D. in computer science will depend on factors like your budget, your goals, and what you want your daily life to look like.

If you want to pursue a tech career that provides you with opportunities to contribute new ideas and research, this degree may be a good fit. But you might opt for a different path if you'd rather work in a tech job with fewer responsibilities and more work-life balance for less pay.

How hard is a Ph.D. in computer science?

How difficult a computer science Ph.D. program is will depend on the program, your experience, and your preexisting knowledge and skill set.

To get a feel for how much mental energy and time this degree takes, talk to someone who completed the program you're interested in doing. Ask whether it's possible to work while taking courses and still maintain a healthy work-school-life balance.

How long does a computer science Ph.D. take?

Expect to spend 4-5 years on a computer science Ph.D. This estimate includes the time it takes to write a dissertation. You might consider an accelerated program if you want to earn your doctorate faster.

Do you need a master's to get a Ph.D. in computer science?

Most computer science Ph.D. programs don't cover computer science foundations. For this reason, you'll likely need a master's in computer science or a related field. Alternatively, some programs may allow you to take prerequisite courses and then enroll.

How many people have a Ph.D. in computer science?

Thousands of people have a Ph.D. in computer science. The National Science Foundation's Survey of Earned Doctorates found that 2,361 people earned a doctorate in computer and information science in 2021 alone.

All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the ASO Rankings Team .

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No longer relegated to a supplement to on-campus programs, online PhD programs have become a viable option for students looking to advance their education. And computer science phd programs online are some of the most popular PhD programs right now, fueled by the increasing demand for highly skilled scholars in the tech industry. This is therefore the perfect time to earn a PhD in Computer Science as there are plenty of high-paying jobs available for graduates with a doctorate in this field.

But with so many universities offering online PhDs in computer science, how do you pick the best for your needs?

We’ve compiled a list of the top 25 online doctorates in computer science, based on factors such as program quality, affordability and flexibility.

The job market for scholars in fields like computer science online phd is growing rapidly, with a projected growth rate of about 15-20 percent through the next few years. This means that there will be many new job opportunities for computer science PhD graduates in the coming years. The average annual salary is $100,000 – $130,000.

There are many different subfields of IT & computer science phd online, so there are many job roles available to graduates. Some popular subfields include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity , data science, and software engineering. Graduates of online phd programs in computer science can find employment in a variety of industries including technology, finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and government.

Computer science is also one of the most versatile degrees you can study. You can find online phd programs in computer information systems that focus on everything from networking to game development. And with the rise of online learning, it’s now easier than ever to get a top-notch computer science degree from anywhere in the world.

While many of the online PhD computer science programs on this list offer a similar curriculum, you will likely encounter some variance from school to school. In most cases, you can expect to study advanced principles of computer science, along with current research and developments in the field.

You may also have the opportunity to choose a concentration or specialization in an area that interests you. Popular concentrations in computing phd online include artificial intelligence, big data, cybersecurity, software engineering, and PhD in cloud computing online. Online phd programs in computer science in the USA present the most versatile options.

A PhD in computer science online in any area including online PhD computer science in USA usually requires students to complete a dissertation or thesis in order to graduate. This final project will allow you to showcase your knowledge and original research.

The Top 25 Online Doctoral Programs in Computer Science

When it comes to earning your online doctoral degree in computer science, the options are wide, but you want the best.

Here are the top recommendations for online phd programs in computer science. You can choose from a focus area that excites you from any of these programs. There’s something to fit everyone’s needs and interests.

Columbia University in New York offers a Ph.D. in Computer and Information Science with a focus on research. The program is designed for students who have already completed an MS in computer science and want to pursue a career in research and teaching at the highest level. It offers concentrations in artificial intelligence, big data, computer security, database systems, machine learning, and more. All courses are offered online, and students have the opportunity to work with faculty from some of the world’s top universities. Graduates of the program are well prepared for careers in academia, research institutes, and industry.

Columbia’s phd computer science online is an internationally-renowned program that provides students with a comprehensive overview of the field. The curriculum is designed to give students a strong foundation in both theory and practice, while also providing opportunities for them to specialize in their chosen area of study. Degree requirements include completing a set of core courses, passing a qualifying exam, writing and defending a dissertation. Students are also encouraged to participate in research opportunities and attend conferences to further their knowledge while developing their research skills.

The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Engineering offers a Ph.D. in Computer and Information Science. The program is designed for students who want to become researchers and professors in the field of computer science. Courses are offered online and in-person, and students are required to complete a dissertation.

The computer science phd online faculty at UPenn is made up of award-winning researchers who are passionate about their fields. The school has been ranked #1 for graduate programs in computer science by  various U.S. News & World Reports, and it’s no surprise that their online Ph.D. in computer science is one of the best in the country.

Among other requirements, TOEFL/IELTS are mandatory for international students and non-U.S. Citizens including those with Permanent Residence status but English is not their native language.

The University of North Texas offers a Ph.D. in Information Science with a focus in Data Science. The program is designed for working professionals, and classes are offered online in eight-week sessions.

The department offers comprehensive research that is focused on the key areas of Algorithms and Computational Science, Computer Security, Databases and Data Mining, Computer Systems and Networks, software and Intelligent Systems.

For admission to this phd online computer science program, you need to have a minimum GPA of 3.5, impressive GRE scores (quantitative: 156, verbal: 151, writing: 4.5) as well as a good TOEFL score. You also need to present three letters of recommendation plus of course a statement of purpose.

Graduates of the program are prepared to work as data scientists or professors at the university level.

Johns Hopkins University is a prestigious research university located in Baltimore, Maryland . They offer an online phd degree computer science that is available part time, which is great for working professionals. The program is highly respected and has a very low acceptance rate.

Once you complete your online phd computer information systems from Johns Hopkins University, you will be qualified for a range of careers in the tech industry. Some of the most common positions that graduates go on to hold are software engineer, research scientist, data analyst, and product manager. With the Ph.D., you will be in a great position to start your career in one of these roles or any other that you are passionate about.

Mississippi State University offers an online PhD in Computational Engineering. This program is designed to help students develop the skills they need to become leaders in the field of computer science.

The curriculum covers a variety of topics, including big data, machine learning, and parallel computing. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in an area of their choice. Tuition for this program is also affordable.

International students need to have good scores in TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

Syracuse University offers a Ph.D. in Computer and Information Science and Engineering. This program is designed for students who want to become researchers and professors in the field of computer science. The curriculum includes coursework in artificial intelligence, database systems, software engineering, and more. Students must also complete a research project and write a dissertation.

The program combines intensive research and coursework, under the leadership of international researchers. The faculty participates in a wide range of research areas that are aimed at equipping graduates with diverse knowledge in the field of computer science.

Capella University is one of the most popular choices for online doctoral degrees in computer science. They offer a Ph.D. in Information Technology ( Doctor of Information Technology ), which is perfect for those who want to focus on developing their skills in the latest technology trends.

The program is suited for working professionals, so it’s flexible and can be completed at your own pace. In fact most of the students at this university happen to be working class adults with families, and mostly take a course per 10-week period. The curriculum structure constantly mirrors the industry, with prominence given to preparing graduates to take up leadership in areas such as cybersecurity and project management.

The university is part of Strategic Education, Inc., an organization that operates a number of programs and institutions in the education sector.

Earning your Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering & Computer Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University can open up a world of opportunities for you in the field of computer science. The Ph.D. program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in research and development and to conduct research into emerging fields. In addition to the world-class faculty, the program benefits from Embry-Riddle’s expertise in aviation and aerospace. The curriculum for the program covers three research areas in general: sense and avoid technologies for unmanned aircraft systems, next generation software and aviation & aerospace cybersecurity.

You’ll also have the opportunity to work with professors who are experts in the field, who will help you hone your skills and knowledge. The Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering & Computer Science can help you become a world-renowned expert in your field.

The Ph.D. in computer science at Clarkson University is an interdisciplinary program that allows students to tailor their studies to their interests. The program is designed for working professionals, so it can be completed entirely online. Students have the opportunity to choose from a variety of concentrations, including artificial intelligence, big data analytics, cybersecurity, software engineering and more.

Students have access to a wealth of resources, including online libraries, career services and more. You’ll also be happy to know that Clarkson University’s program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET .

ABET is a leading accreditor of college and university programs in applied science, computing, engineering, and technology. When you earn your degree from an ABET-accredited program like Clarkson’s, you can be confident that you have received a quality education that will prepare you for a successful career in your field.

Nova Southeastern University offers an online computer science phd that is suited to those in industry, education, or government involved in computer science.

The program focuses on the foundations of computer science, providing students with a broad base of knowledge in the field. Students will be prepared to work in a variety of settings and specializations within computer science.  Nova Southeastern University’s online PhD in Computer Science is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Earning your online Ph.D in computer science from Nova Southeastern University can open up a world of new career opportunities. The program is designed to help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the field. Plus, the flexible format makes it convenient for working professionals.

Southern Methodist University offers a Doctorates in Computer Science program. The program is designed for experienced professionals who want to become experts in the field of computer science. It offers a flexible, online curriculum that covers topics such as big data, artificial intelligence, software engineering, and more.

The program is highly respected and has an excellent reputation.  Students in the program will also have the opportunity to specialize in an area of their choice, preparing them for careers in academia or industry.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science at Northcentral University is practical and the university guarantees students that they will do more than just write papers in the course of study.  You are given freedom to put forward your research proposal based on real-world happenings. The main areas of focus include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and data mining.

The program consists of 60 credit hours and 20 courses. The recommended completion time is 40 months and the classroom size is one which makes learning a smooth process. One of the biggest advantages of this program is the flexibility that an online program offers. You can study at your own pace and on your own schedule, which is ideal for working professionals or those with other commitments.

The University of the Southwest offers an online Ph.D in Computer Science that can be completed in as little as three years. Coursework focuses on research methods, computer science theory, and electrical engineering. Students are required to complete a dissertation in order to graduate.

The University of the Southwest’s Doctorate in Computer Science program is one of the most affordable and accelerated programs available. It is also highly flexible, allowing you to complete your coursework around your busy schedule. The program is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and provides students with a well-rounded education in computer science theory and research methods.

Dakota State University offers an online Doctorate in Computer Science degree that is designed for working professionals. The program is offered in a cohort-based format, which means that students progress through the program with the same group of classmates. This format allows for collaboration and support among classmates, as well as networking opportunities.

The Computer Science program at DSU is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. Students in the program will gain knowledge and experience in areas such as big data analytics, cloud computing, cybersecurity, software engineering, and more. Graduates of the program will be prepared to work in positions such as chief information officer (CIO), chief technology officer (CTO), director of information security, and more.

The University of Utah offers a top-ranked Doctoral program in the field of Information and Technology. Students in the program will gain the skills and knowledge they need to become leaders in the field of computer science. The program is designed for working professionals, and classes are offered online in a flexible format.

Admission requirements for the program include a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with a minimum GPA of 3.0, and a GRE score of 1000 or higher. Additionally, applicants must submit three letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal statement.

The Ph.D. program in Computer Science at Aspen University is individualized, rigorous, and prestigious. The goal of the program is to develop original contaminate computer science research that can be immediately impactful, as well as future-looking and trendsetting.

Graduates from the program often go on to pursue careers in academia or industry research laboratories, where they enjoy freedom to shape the intellectual agenda, author major publications, hold key positions in technology companies, or found their own companies.

Many Ph.D. graduates end up working in influential jobs outside of their field of study altogether because the market always needs creative minds interested in big ideas who have the ability to understand complex problems.

The Ph.D. program in Computer Science at Indiana University Bloomington is one of the oldest and most respected programs in the country. The program has been consistently ranked among the top 10 computer science programs by credible bodies, and the graduates have gone on to succeed in careers across academia, industry, and government.

The program curriculum is designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of the field of computer science, as well as prepare them for research careers in academia or industry. The faculty are leading researchers in a wide range of areas, including artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, programming languages, security and privacy, systems and networking, and theory of computation.

While Capitol Technical University is often known for their excellent undergraduate and graduate programs in computer science, many people don’t know that they also offer a Ph.D in Computer Science.

Capitol Technical University’s Doctorate in Computer Science program is designed for experienced professionals who want to continue their education and expand their knowledge in the field of computer science.The program is offered online, so students can continue to work while they earn their degree. The curriculum is designed to be relevant and current, so students will gain the latest skills and knowledge in the field.

In order to be eligible for Capitol Technical University’s Doctorate in Computer Science program, you must first hold a Master’s degree in computer science or a related field. In addition to your degree, you must also have at least five years of experience working in the field of computer science. The program is research-oriented, plus you have the opportunity to work with some of the best minds in the industry.

The University of California, Berkeley offers a Doctorate in Computer Science (Doctor of Philosophy – Ph.D.). The program is designed for students who wish to pursue a career in research and teaching in the field of computer science.

The Ph.D. degree is earned by completing a program of coursework and original research, culminating in the submission of a dissertation. Students who are admitted to the program must have a masters in computer science or a related field, with a strong academic record. In addition, they must demonstrate superior ability in research and scholarship.

The University of California, Berkeley’s Doctorate in Computer Science (Doctor of Philosophy – Ph.D.) program is ranked among the very best by different bodies in the US.

The doctorate program in computer science at the University of Rhode Island is one of the best, offering a wealth of benefits that you won’t find anywhere else. For example, the faculty at URI are experts in their field and are always updating their teaching methods to stay current.

The program offers a balanced curriculum of theoretical and practical coursework, delivered by a faculty of experienced professionals who are dedicated to helping students reach their potential. The program also offers ample opportunities for research and collaboration with faculty and peers.

URI is accredited by the ABET, which is a rigorous accreditation process that ensures programs meet the highest standards. ABET accreditation is important because it means that employers know that graduates from an ABET-accredited program are ready to hit the ground running. Employers know that an ABET degree means that you have the skills, knowledge and ability to do the job.

The Colorado Technical Institute online Doctorate in Computer Science is one of the most respected and acclaimed programs. With a strong focus on research and a well-rounded curriculum, this program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in today’s highly competitive field of computer science.

Located in Denver, Colorado, this program is also highly convenient for students who may not be able to relocate to attend a campus-based program. If you’re looking for an online Doctorate in Computer Science that will give you the freedom to learn at your own pace while still providing an excellent education, then the Colorado Technical Institute is a nice option.

Navigating political turbulence and increasingly sophisticated cyber-attacks requires the very best in computer science research. The Department of Computer Science (CS) at the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) produces leading edge research to enable warfighters to stay ahead of these threats.

An NPS PhD in Computer Science provides unique hands-on learning opportunities that result in graduates who are ready to lead immediately upon receiving their commission. Students choose NPS for its World-Class faculty, RELEVANT curriculum, reasonable tuition fees with numerous financial aid opportunities. The classes are scheduled to meet the needs of busy working professionals.

UMN offers an online Ph.D in computer science that can be completed in three years, and is perfect for working professionals. This program is designed for students who want to continue working while they earn their degree. It offers the same rigorous coursework as the on-campus program. In addition, the online program offers asynchronous learning, which allows students to complete coursework on their own schedule.

A Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be a leader in computer science and to make a difference in the world. You’ll learn from some of the best faculty and have access to some of the most advanced technology and research facilities in the world.

The University of Minnesota is also a leader in online education, offering some of the best online programs. You’ll get all the benefits of a top-notch university education without having to leave home.

Online programs tend to be more affordable than traditional on-campus programs, and a PhD in computer science is no exception. You’ll save money on things like tuition, room and board, and other associated expenses. Another benefit of these programs is the learning environment. Because you’ll be taking your courses online, you’ll never feel like just another number.

With this list, you should be able to find your perfect fit, apply and start pursuing your dream PhD in computer science online.

PHD in Economics, Associate Professor, Department of Business Process Management, Faculty of Market Technologies IOM

25 Best Online PhD in Computer Science Degree Programs

Looking for Online PhD Computer Science programs for 2024? Compare schools & accelerated programs.

Pursuing a degree in computer science can help you become a leader in a cutting-edge field and develop skills that are in demand by top companies.

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A PhD in computer science online may give you a distinct advantage over other job candidates and help you earn an average salary of between $73,000 and $146,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, depending on your career path.

Universities Offering Online PhD 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.

1. Auburn University

Auburn University is a public research university in Auburn, Alabama. It is the second-largest university in the state. It was founded in 1856 and was first called the East Alabama Male College. There are 15 colleges and over 140 majors that students can choose from. Auburn University is committed to preparing students for the modern global economy.

• Ph.D. – Computer Science and Software Engineering

Auburn University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

2. Boston University

Boston University, located in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private nonsectarian university. They have a vibrant, diverse, and welcoming community with over 35,000 students from 130 countries, over 10,000 faculty and staff. There are more than 300 programs of study in 17 colleges across three campuses.

Boston University looks beyond classroom boundaries by engaging with people, discussing relevant ideas and issues that impact the world.

• PhD in Computer Science

Boston University  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

3. Clarkson University

Clarkson University, founded in 1896, is a private research university with its main campus in Potsdam, New York. It has two branch campuses in Beacon, New York and in the New York Capital Region. It takes pride in having globally oriented faculty members who help learners pursue interdisciplinary research focused on solving real-world problems.

At Clarkson, student life is a unique mix of academics and extracurricular activities, allowing students to make lifelong connections in a tight-knit community.

• Computer Science PhD

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

4. Colorado Technical University

Colorado Technical University, founded in 1965, was first named Colorado Technical College. In 1995, it gained its university status. The majority of its students take classes fully online.

CTU offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees which focus primarily in business, management, and technology. They have a main campus in Colorado Springs and another campus in Denver. Most of their degree offerings can be completed entirely online.

• Doctor of Computer Science (DCS)

Colorado Technical University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).

5. Columbia University

Columbia University in the City of New York is a private Ivy League research university. It was established in 1754 on the grounds of Trinity Church in Manhattan. It is considered as the oldest institution of higher education in New York and the fifth-oldest institution of higher learning in the country.

It is home to a diverse and dynamic academic community consisting of more than 40,000 students, faculty, and staff from across the nation and different parts of the world.

• Computer Science Doctorate Degree

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

6. Dakota State University

Dakota State University was founded in 1881 as a school for teacher education. Over the years, it has shifted its primary focus to the cyber world, providing students with the technological knowledge and skills they need to excel in their chosen careers.

The university continues to grow at a fast pace, expanding its campus, and immersing in the most advanced and innovative technology.

• PhD in Cyber Operations

Dakota State is an institution accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

7. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers a wide variety of degree programs to meet the needs of learners in this changing world. A lot of exceptional achievements make Embry-Riddle stand out from the rest.

It is the first and only University in the nation to offer undergraduate Space Physics. It is also the first to offer programs in Spaceflight Operations, Unmanned and Autonomous Systems Engineering, Aerospace Physiology, and Security and Intelligence.

• Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering & Computer Science

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

8. Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University was founded in 1876 and named after its first benefactor, John Hopkins, an American entrepreneur and philanthropist. It is a private research university located in Baltimore, Maryland.

The university aims to prepare students to become global leaders and citizens by giving them opportunities to take part in international learning activities, thus staying true to its mission of bringing the benefits of discovery to the world.

• Ph.D. in Computer Science

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

9. Michigan Technological University

Michigan Technological University, founded in 1885, is a public research university located in Houghton, Michigan. Its main campus nestles on 925 acres on a bluff overlooking the picturesque Portage Lake.

It is the first post-secondary institution in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and was founded to train mining engineers to operate the local mines. Presently, Michigan Tech offers over 130 degree programs through its five colleges and schools.

Michigan Tech  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

10. Mississippi State University

Mississippi State University is a world-class comprehensive, doctoral degree-granting institution with a diverse student body comprising of students from different states in the country and from different nations in the world.

The Mississippi State community shares a common goal of making each learner’s experience a lifetime opportunity. It is located in the eastern part of north-central Mississippi.

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

11. National University

National University is a network of nonprofit educational institutions headquartered in San Diego, CA. It offers many undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs that can be completed online or at one of its campuses in California.

The network is dedicated to providing flexible, quality education that helps adults meet their goals.

• Computer Science PHD-TM

National  is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

12. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University is a private nonprofit university with its main campus in Davie, Florida. It offers a wide variety of innovative programs that can be completed on campus or online. These programs are aimed at fostering academic excellence, leadership, research, and community service.

The university consists of 18 colleges and schools with more than 150 programs of study.

NSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

13. Pennsylvania State University

Pennsylvania State University is a public land-grant, doctoral university with campuses and facilities all over Pennsylvania. It was established in 1855 as the Farmers’ High School of Pennsylvania.

Penn State actively conducts teaching, research, and public service. It offers undergraduate, graduate, professional, and continuing education degree programs that can be completed on campus or online. Penn State has 19 other commonwealth campuses and 5 special mission campuses across the state.

Penn State  is regionally accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

14. Southern Methodist University

Southern Methodist University, founded in 1911, is a private research university located in University Park, Texas. It also has satellite campuses in Plano, Texas and Taos, New Mexico.

It is a distinguished center for global research with a strong foundation of liberal arts. Its dynamic and diverse community consists of students from 50 states and 90 countries who take advantage of small classes, hands-on research opportunities, international studies, and leadership development.

Southern Methodist University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

15. Syracuse University

Syracuse University, founded in 1879, is a private research university located in Syracuse, New York. It is historically affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal Church in Lima, New York. The university is recognized as a student-focused global research university that takes pride in its academic rigor, richly diverse learning, and a commitment to discovery.

• Computer & Information Science & Engineering, PhD

Syracuse University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and many of our schools/colleges and programs are accredited by professional organizations.

16. University of Arkansas – Little Rock

Students in the Computer and Information Sciences Ph.D. program at University of Arkansas – Little Rock can choose tracks in either Information Quality or Information Science. While all courses in this program can be completed 100% online, there are three residency requirements for degree completion.

• PhD in Computer and Information Sciences

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

17. University of California – Berkeley

The University of California-Berkeley, founded in 1868, is a public research university in Berkeley, California. It is the flagship campus of the University of California. It offers 350 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various disciplines.

With over 35,000 students from different corners of the world, its vibrant campus community is dynamic and interconnected with hundreds of student organizations to connect with students’ passions.

• PhD in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences

UC Berkeley  has been fully accredited since 1949 and had its accreditation reaffirmed most recently in 2015 under the Western Association of Schools & Colleges (WASC) pilot institutional review process.

18. University of Idaho

The University of Idaho, located in Moscow, Idaho, is a public, land-grant research university. It is Idaho Space Grant Consortium’s lead university.

Since its founding in 1889, the university has been providing its students with a transformative and high-quality education designed to prepare them to solve real-world problems and achieve their individual goals and endeavors in their lives and careers.

The University of Idaho  is accredited by Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

19. University of North Texas

The University of North Texas is a public research university located in Denton, Texas. It consists of 11 colleges, two schools, and an early admissions math and science academy for exceptionally gifted high-school-age students.

It is one of the country’s biggest universities and offers 105 undergraduate and 88 master’s and 37 doctoral degree programs. By working in collaboration with business and community partners, students can become better prepared to meet challenges in the real world.

• Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering

The  University of North Texas is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

20. University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania has a long and proud tradition of academic excellence and a continuing pursuit of innovative knowledge. This tradition lives on today through the effort, dedication, creativity, and engagement of students, faculty, and staff.

The university traces its roots in 1740, with the initiative of George Whitefield, a prominent evangelist, to build a charity school in Philadelphia.

• Ph.D. in Computer and Information Science

The  University of Pennsylvania  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

21. University of Rhode Island

The University of Rhode Island is a public, land grant and sea grant research university, with its main campus in Kingston, Rhode Island. As a leading research university, URI offers undergraduate and graduate courses that are defined by innovation and designed to meet the challenges of the modern world.

It has a diverse and dynamic student population with more than 18,000 students from 48 states and 76 countries.

The  University of Rhode Island  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

22. University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina, a public research university, has a history of 200 years of academic leadership, and it continues to build on that tradition.

It is among the country’s oldest and most comprehensive public universities, with an enrollment of approximately 21,000 undergraduate students and around 8,000 students in graduate and professional programs. It has seven other branch campuses throughout the state.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science

The  University of South Carolina  was most recently accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) in 2011.

23. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California, established in 1880, is a private research university in Los Angeles, California. It is known as California’s oldest private research university and one of the world’s leading private research institutions.

USC is home to a diverse community of over 44,000 undergraduate and graduate students and 4,000 full-time faculty members.

The  University of Southern California  has been fully and continuously accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

24. University of Utah

The University of Utah, the state’s flagship university, is a public research university in Salt Lake City, Utah.

There are more than 100 undergraduate majors and over 92 graduate degree programs offered. It was founded in 1850 and was first called the University of Deseret. It changed to its current name in 1892, four years before Utah was declared a state.

The  University of Utah  has continuously maintained accreditation through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) since 1933.

25. Wright State University

Wright State University is a public research university, named in honor of the aviation pioneers, Orville and Wilbur Wright. It was founded in 1967 and its main campus is located in Fairborn, Ohio. It has an additional branch campus on Grand Lake St. Marys.

The university offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees with over 292 degree programs. Its mission is to transform the lives of students and the communities they serve.

Wright State University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Online PhD Computer Science Degree Courses

The first few years of your doctoral program will probably be dedicated largely to coursework. Class offerings can vary greatly among schools, and you’ll usually have a good deal of latitude to select topics that correlate to your area of interest.

There may be a few foundational classes that all computer science doctoral students are required to take. In addition, you may need to ensure that your course schedule includes at least one class from each required category; for example, you may need a theory class, a programming class and an applications class.

• Artificial Intelligence – your time in this class can help bring you up to speed on some of the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and give you an idea of the direction that this technology may be heading. You’ll likely discuss search algorithms and probabilistic models.
• Databases – this course explores advanced topics in creating and using databases. Data analytics will likely be an important component of your studies, and you’ll probably discuss query optimization and warehouse modeling.
• Graduate Algorithms – this course can help equip you with skills and tools for advanced data collection and analysis. The topics may include hash tables, linear programming, max-flow algorithms, and dynamic programming.
• Programming Languages – your earlier academic programs probably introduced you to the basics of using programming languages, and this doctoral course is designed to build on your object-oriented and functional programming skills. You’ll likely talk about applying algorithms and running optimizations.
• Project Management for Software Design – creating a new program or operating system can involve coordinating numerous people over a long span of time. This class covers how to provide organized leadership for the process and ensure that all involved parties stay on the same page.
• Research Methods – by teaching you how to conduct original research, this class can help you get ready for your dissertation process and your future career ambitions. You’ll likely discuss different research methods, be asked to consider how bias can affect results, and be expected to demonstrate your research skills.
• Teaching Methodologies – after completing your doctoral work, you may aspire to become a university faculty member. A teaching course can help you develop your instructional skills and may give you opportunities to lead classes.

Although you can probably select many of your own classes, there will be a set number of credits that you must earn. After completing your required coursework, you will probably need to take a qualifying exam. Passing this test is usually a prerequisite to beginning your dissertation process.

Careers in Computer Science for PhD Graduates

Your doctoral degree in computer science can help prepare you for jobs in tech companies, the business world, academia, or research.

Your advanced education may qualify you for leadership roles in which you direct teams of employees or spearhead tech innovations. The field of computer and information technology is growing, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that 531,200 new positions will be added for the next ten years.

The federal government is one of the largest employers of computer and information research scientists . Other potential employers include academic institutions and research organizations.

Software and computer companies also hire computer researchers. These professionals often work in urban centers, and the East Coast and the West Coast have some of the highest concentrations of computer scientists.

As you advance, this job has the potential to become quite lucrative; the top 10% of researchers in this field make over $189,780 each year.

Computer Science Professional Organizations

As a leader in computer science, you should continually strive to improve your professional abilities and to advance the field. Joining industry organizations can help you achieve those goals.

• Association for Computing Machinery – ACM is a worldwide organization that promotes networking, research, industry advocacy, and ethical conduct among members. The group maintains the ACM Digital Library.
• CompTIA Association of Information Technology Professionals  – CompTIA offers certification programs, and those who qualify are automatically enrolled for membership in this support and advocacy group. Non-certified professionals and students are welcome to purchase a membership as well.
• Computing Research Association  – Computer researchers from government, business and academic institutions collaborate through CRA.
• IEEE Computer Society  – IEEE’s global network includes people who work in the engineering and technology fields. Societies allow members to join specialized subgroups.

Joining these organizations can provide opportunities to learn from others and to share your knowledge.

Accreditation for Online PhD Computer Science Programs

Any school that you choose for your PhD program should be accredited. As with your bachelor’s and online masters in computer science programs, the best type of accreditation to consider is regional accreditation. Employers are unlikely to hold a degree from an unaccredited school in high regard.

Regional accreditation is granted by organizations that are approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education.

These groups include:

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

The most important reason to choose a regionally accredited school is to ensure that your degree, whether earned online or on campus, is respectable. In addition, accredited programs are eligible for federal financial aid, and credits may be transferrable elsewhere.

Financial Aid for PhD Computer Science Students

Doctoral students often have access to multiple funding options. Some schools allow students to serve as research or teaching assistants, and they receive a stipend in return. You can ask your school’s financial aid department whether you will be eligible for an opportunity like this or other doctoral funding.

In addition, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out what federal or state assistance, such as grants or loans, you can receive. You may also be able to get doctoral fellowships through your school’s computer science department or a private organization.

Is There a PhD in Computer Science?

Yes, computer science is a common PhD offering at many universities. Computer science doctoral candidates may perform research related to artificial intelligence, databases, information technology, programming languages, or algorithmic theory.

You may take courses like Deep Learning, Graduate Algorithms, and Semantic Information Processing. Earning this degree may allow you to advance fields like technology, medicine, education, or journalism through innovative computer developments.

Can You Get a PhD in Software Engineering?

Yes, a PhD in software engineering is an option at many schools. In such a program, you may explore human-computer interactions, data collection from software, and methods of software testing. Your studies may prepare you to work in software research and development or to teach software engineering at the undergraduate or graduate level.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online PhD Computer Science Degree?

Students’ time in doctoral programs can vary, but you may be in school for three to eight years in either an on-campus or an online PhD in Computer Science program.

• Year One – to begin your studies, you’ll choose a research advisor and take your first classes.
• Year Two – next, you’ll probably form an advisory committee, finish your classes, and take qualifying exams.
• Year Three – after that, you may be ready to submit your application for PhD candidacy and begin your dissertation process.
• Remaining Years – the remainder of your time will likely be spent conducting and presenting research and writing and defending your dissertation.

It’s important to note that your timeline will vary depending on your dissertation requirement (or lack of it). While most PhDs do require a dissertation, a professional doctor program does not require a doctoral thesis or dissertation , but will often instead offer a capstone project option.

After completing these steps, you can apply for graduation from your program.

Some universities offer part time PhD in Computer Science programs, but these will of course take longer to complete than programs requiring full time attendance.

How Much Does a PhD in Computer Science Make?

Salaries for people with computer science doctorates can vary widely depending on their particular job or field of expertise, their experience, and where they live in the U.S. For example, corporate information systems managers, on average, earn nearly twice as much as professors.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, among information systems managers , those who earn the least make less than $87,480 each year. The 10% with the highest wages bring in over $208,000 annually.

Average salaries are highest in California, New York, and Texas. Those who are employed by clothing retailers, financial establishments, and electronics manufacturers may bring in some of the top earnings.

Which University is Best for PhD in Computer Science?

Picking the best university for your doctoral program is a big decision compared to that of picking a university for, lets say, an online computer science associate degree . Rather, it’s a matter of finding the program that’s the best fit for your personal goals and interests.

You should look for a university that is accredited and where the faculty’s research interests line up with your own so that they’ll be qualified to spur you on toward a greater understanding of your chosen subject area. Additionally, you may want to look for faculty members who have professional connections to industry partners that intrigue you.

Finally, for schedule flexibility, consider schools with online programs.

Is an Online PhD Computer Science Degree Worth It?

Yes, an online PhD computer science degree is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 11% job growth in computer and information technology occupations over the next 10 years. Common careers in this field include computer scientist, chief technology officer, information technology director, and web developer.

If you have aspirations of making a significant contribution to the world of computing, then you may want to pursue your PhD in computer science. This degree can help you become ready to lead teams, conduct research, and teach new generations of tech students. Your doctoral credentials may qualify you for greater respect and a higher salary.

Studying at one of the best online computer science colleges makes earning a doctorate doable for many working professionals. By balancing your professional and academic responsibilities, you can earn your degree without putting your life on hold. To get started, submit application materials to the online computer science PhD programs that most interest you.

Study Postgraduate

Phd in computer science (2024 entry).

Course code

30 September 2024

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

Qualification

Computer Science

University of Warwick

Find out more about our PhD in Computer Science.

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

Course overview

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

General entry requirements

Minimum requirements.

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

English language requirements

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

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

International qualifications

We welcome applications from students with other internationally recognised qualifications.

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

Additional requirements

There are no additional entry requirements for this course.

Our research

Research themes.

The current research themes include:

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

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

Find a supervisor

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

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

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

Tuition fees

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

Find your research course fees

Fee Status Guidance

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

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

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

Additional course costs

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

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

Scholarships and bursaries

Scholarships and financial support

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

Computer Science Funding Opportunities

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

Living costs

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

Computer Science at Warwick

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

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

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

Find out more about us on our website.

Our Postgraduate Taught courses

• Computer Science (MSc)
• Data Analytics (MSc)

Our Postgraduate Research courses

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

How to apply

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

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

How to apply for a postgraduate research course  

After you’ve applied

Find out how we process your application.

Applicant Portal

Track your application and update your details.

Admissions statement

See Warwick’s postgraduate admissions policy.

Join a live chat

Ask questions and engage with Warwick.

Warwick Hosted Events Link opens in a new window

Postgraduate fairs.

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

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

Departmental events

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

See our online departmental events

Warwick Talk and Tours

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

Connect with us

Learn more about Postgraduate study at the University of Warwick.

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

Why Warwick

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

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

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

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

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

About the information on this page

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

Best Undergraduate Computer Science Programs Rankings

Top academics and officials at computer science programs rated the overall quality of undergraduate programs with which they were familiar on a 1-5 scale. A school’s undergraduate computer science rank is solely determined by its average of scores received from these surveys. To be included in this standalone peer assessment survey and ranked, a program must either have been accredited by ABET or have recently awarded 20 or more bachelor's degrees in computer science. Read the methodology »

To unlock full rankings, SAT/ACT scores and more, sign up for the U.S. News College Compass !

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Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA

• #1 in Computer Science

Though the Massachusetts Institute of Technology may be best known for its math, science and engineering education, this private research university also offers architecture, humanities, management and social science programs. The school is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just across the Charles River from downtown Boston.

(fall 2022)

SAT, GPA and More

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA

• #2 in Computer Science  (tie)

Carnegie Mellon University, a private institution in Pittsburgh, is the country’s only school founded by industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. The school specializes in academic areas including engineering, business, computer science and fine arts.

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

The sunny campus of Stanford University is located in California’s Bay Area, about 30 miles from San Francisco. The private institution stresses a multidisciplinary combination of teaching, learning, and research, and students have many opportunities to get involved in research projects.

University of California, Berkeley

Berkeley, CA

The University of California, Berkeley overlooks the San Francisco Bay in Berkeley, Calif. Students at this public school have more than 1,000 groups to get involved in, including more than 60 fraternity and sorority chapters.

(out-of-state)

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL

• #5 in Computer Science

The University of Illinois is located in the twin cities of Urbana and Champaign in east-central Illinois, only a few hours from Chicago, Indianapolis and St. Louis. The school's Fighting Illini participate in more than 20 NCAA Division I varsity sports and are part of the Big Ten Conference. The university boasts one of the largest Greek systems in the country, and almost a quarter of the student body is involved. It’s not hard to find something to do on campus with more than 1,600 student organizations, including professional, political and philanthropic clubs. All freshmen are required to live on campus.

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA

• #6 in Computer Science  (tie)

The California Institute of Technology focuses on science and engineering education and has a low student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1. This private institution in Pasadena, California, is actively involved in research projects with grants from NASA, the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Cornell University

Cornell University, a private school in Ithaca, New York, has 14 colleges and schools. Each admits its own students, though every graduate receives a degree from Cornell University. The university has more than 1,000 student organizations on campus.

Georgia Institute of Technology

Atlanta, GA

Georgia Tech, located in the heart of Atlanta, offers a wide range of student activities. The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, an NCAA Division I team, compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference and have a fierce rivalry with the University of Georgia. Since 1961, the football team has been led onto the field at home games by the Ramblin' Wreck, a restored 1930 Model A Ford Sport Coupe. Georgia Tech has a small but vibrant Greek community. Freshmen are offered housing, but aren't required to live on campus. In addition to its campuses in Atlanta and Savannah, Georgia Tech has campuses in France, Ireland, Costa Rica, Singapore and China.

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

The ivy-covered campus of Princeton University, a private institution, is located in the quiet town of Princeton, New Jersey. Princeton was the first university to offer a "no loan" policy to financially needy students, giving grants instead of loans to accepted students who need help paying tuition.

University of Washington

Seattle, WA

• #10 in Computer Science

Located north of downtown Seattle, the University of Washington is one of the oldest public universities on the West Coast. It is also a cutting-edge research institution, receiving significant yearly federal funding, and hosting an annual undergraduate research symposium for students to present their work to the community. The university has a highly ranked School of Medicine, College of Engineering and Michael G. Foster School of Business. Known as a commuter school, the university does not require freshmen to live on campus, but it encourages students who do to conserve energy and recycle. Students can join one of the 950-plus student organizations on campus, including about 70 sororities and fraternities. Nearly three-fourths of UW graduates remain in the state post-graduation.

See all 554 Ranked Schools

Sign up for U.S. News College Compass today to find the school that's right for you. You'll gain access to more than 1,800 expanded school profiles, all entering class stats, including starting salary by major, SAT scores, GPAs and financial aid packages given to students by schools.

More Schools in this List (Alphabetical)

Abilene Christian University

Abilene, TX

• in Computer Science

Abilene Christian University is a Texas institution affiliated with the Churches of Christ. Students are required to attend daily chapel sessions and take Bible courses.

Reputation Score

Alabama A&M University

Founded in 1875, Alabama A&M University is a public institution.

Alabama State University

Montgomery, AL

Alabama State University, located in Montgomery, was founded by freed slaves. Notable alumni from ASU include Fred Gray, the attorney who defended Rosa Parks during the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

Allegheny College

Meadville, PA

At Allegheny College in northwest Pennsylvania, students can choose from about 30 majors and must complete and present a capstone project their senior year. William McKinley, the 25th president of the United States, attended Allegheny College in the 1800s, but legend has it that he was expelled for shoving a cow into the school’s bell tower.

American University

Washington, DC

Students at American University benefit from the school's location in the political hub of the nation. Washington, D.C., is a playground for the politically and socially oriented with its countless museums, restaurants, clubs and year-round events. The university, located in a suburban pocket of northwest Washington, is close to a stop on the D.C.-area Metrorail transit system. Rides downtown take about 15 minutes. Students at American have been rated among the most politically active in the nation, and there are more than 270 student clubs and organizations on campus. The school also has a sizable Greek system, with more than 25 fraternities and sororities.

Amherst College

Amherst, MA

Amherst College, a private school in Amherst, Massachusetts, is known for its rigorous academic climate. Because Amherst is a member of the Five Colleges consortium, students can also take courses at Smith College, Mount Holyoke College, Hampshire College and the University of Massachusetts—Amherst.

Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University is a public school tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Students at Appalachian have many programs, sports, and clubs to choose from, including the Appalachian Popular Programming Society, which plans campus events. 

Arizona State University

Arizona State University’s Tempe campus offers more than 200 research-based programs in the arts, business, engineering and more. The campus is located just outside of Phoenix, in the suburb of Tempe, Arizona.

Arkansas Tech University

Russellville, AR

Founded in 1909, Arkansas Tech University is a public institution.

Auburn University

Auburn, Alabama, has been ranked one of the best places to live, and life at Auburn University can be similarly enjoyable for students. Football is a particularly big attraction in the fall, as fans support the Auburn Tigers with the help of school mascot Aubie the Tiger. The Tiger sports teams compete in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference, and the influx of football fans makes Auburn the fifth-largest city in the state on game days. Pep rallies are held in the downtown Toomer's Corner, and the area is covered in toilet paper by fans after every big victory. There are more than 500 student organizations on campus, and about 6,000 students are involved in the school's Greek system. Auburn freshmen ease into the college transition through Camp War Eagle, a two-day, overnight summer orientation program. Transition help continues on Hey Day, an annual effort to get students to wear name tags and say hello to one another. Freshmen do not have to live on campus; in fact, a dorm room isn't even guaranteed. Because of space restraints, first-year students are awarded on-campus living assignments on a first-come, first-served basis.

PhD candidate Nils Lukas receives 2024 Mathematics Doctoral Prize’s top honour

Nils Lukas , a PhD candidate at the Cheriton School of Computer Science, is the first-place winner of the 2024 Faculty of Mathematics Doctoral Prize . Now in its sixth year, this prestigious award recognizes and celebrates the achievements of top doctoral students in the Faculty of Mathematics. As a first-place recipient, Nils will receive $1,500 and is nominated for the university-wide Governor General’s Gold Medal, which is awarded at spring convocation.

“Congratulations to Nils on receiving this prestigious and much-deserved recognition,” said Raouf Boutaba, University Professor and Director of the Cheriton School of Computer Science. “The research he has conducted on trustworthy, secure and privacy-preserving machine learning and published at the top international conferences in these fields is not only academically rigorous but also hugely significant for industry and society.”

Nils works on most of the pressing security and privacy problems in machine learning — untrustworthy data, untrustworthy providers, and untrustworthy users, explains his advisor Professor Florian Kerschbaum. 

“Across these areas Nils has an outstanding publication record and at a level of academic excellence rarely seen among even applicants for faculty positions,” Professor Kerschbaum said. “Since joining my group, Nils has published five first-author papers and another as the supervisor of an undergraduate student, all of them in the top venues, with several other papers in submission. His published works include his paper presented at the IEEE Symposium on Security and Privacy in 2022 and another in 2023, a paper presented at USENIX Security Symposium in 2023, a paper in the International Conference on Learning Representations in 2021, followed by two more at that venue in 2024.”

Nils Lukas, a PhD candidate in the Cheriton School of Computer Science’s Cryptography, Security, and Privacy (CrySP) group, focuses on trustworthy machine learning. He has an MSc with distinction in Computer Science from RWTH Aachen University in Germany. His research explores the threats that arise when deploying deep neural networks from three perspectives: (1) privacy when the model is trained on private data, (2) reliability when the model’s training data cannot be trusted, and (3) model misuse when the users cannot be trusted. His work includes studying privacy attacks against large language models fine-tuned on private datasets, developing defences against data poisoning, and creating multiple methods for controlling model misuse. Nils received a prestigious 2022–24 Cheriton Graduate Scholarship. Additionally, his research has won two notable poster competitions: the 2023 Cheriton Research Symposium poster competition and the 2019 Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute poster competition .

More about Nils Lukas’s research

The rapid advancement of generative AI models in recent years holds great promise to transform businesses and society, but they also pose novel trust, security and privacy challenges. The research Nils conducts is helping to reduce the risks of these technologies. 

In his paper titled Analyzing Leakage of Personally Identifiable Information in Language Models , published in IEEE Symposium on Security & Privacy in 2023 with colleagues from Microsoft Research, Nils introduced novel attack algorithms capable of extracting ten times more personally identifiable information than existing attacks. This work revealed that standard sentence-level differentially private training, while largely reducing the risk of disclosing personally identifiable information, still leaks about 3% of such information. The significance of this work is that it is one of the first comprehensive studies of the risk of personally identifiable information memorization in language models, and it exposed the subtle insufficiency of sentence-level differentially private training for protecting record level personally identifiable information. Nils has released his code to the public to reproduce and conduct further research.

In SoK: How Robust is Image Classification Deep Neural Network Watermarking? , a paper with Edward Jiang, Xinda Li and Florian Kerschbaum presented at IEEE Symposium on Security & Privacy in 2022, Nils conducted a systematic evaluation of the robustness of existing watermarking schemes that aim to verify provenance of machine learning models and to prevent misuse of AI generated content. Nils found that none of the surveyed watermarking schemes can withstand all removal attacks, showcasing the importance of a thorough evaluation framework. 

In Deep Neural Network Fingerprinting by Conferrable Adversarial Examples , a paper with Yuxuan Zhang and Florian Kerschbaum presented at ICLR 2021, Nils developed a fingerprinting method for deep neural networks, aimed at detecting the surrogate models that an adversary may build by querying a proprietary source model. Nils proposed a new method to generate conferrable adversarial examples and, importantly, demonstrated their superior effectiveness and robustness against previous fingerprints and watermarks.

In PTW: Pivotal Tuning Watermarking for Pre-Trained Image Generators , a paper with his advisor presented at the 32 nd USENIX Security Symposium, Nils explored image generators, such as those used in deepfake creation. He proposed pivotal tuning watermarking to prevent misuse of image generators, achieving three orders of magnitude speedup while obviating the need of any training data. Moreover, Nils revealed some intrinsic trade-off between the undetectability and robustness of watermarks.

In Leveraging Optimization for Adaptive Attacks on Image Watermarks , a paper with Abdulrahman Diaa, Lucas Fenaux, and Florian Kerschbaum presented at ICLR 2024, the authors continued the investigation of image watermarking attacks through the lens of adaptive, learnable attacks. The core idea is that an adaptive attacker who knows the watermarking algorithm can create their own surrogate keys and use them to optimize the parameters of a watermark removal attack. Such adaptive, learnable attacks can undermine the robustness of all five tested, state-of-the-art watermarking methods and require limited computational resources. Nils has presented his watermarking results to Google, with the goal that the research will limit misuse of its image generators and combat misinformation.

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Best Online Computer Science Programs of 2024

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Updated April 25, 2024 at 4:00 pm

Online computer science programs are a convenient way to broaden your career opportunities, knowledge and experience. When you study for an online CS degree, you can learn at your own pace while still receiving an affordable, quality education.

Whether you’re enrolling in college for the first time or looking to switch to a more technical role, an online computer science degree can give you the same diploma you’d receive at a traditional, residential school. We’ve researched dozens of schools to find the best online computer science degree to help you meet your goals.

Our research is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of personal finance services and products that best suit your needs. To help you in the decision-making process, our expert contributors compare common preferences and potential pain points, such as affordability, accessibility, and credibility.

• #1: Oregon State University
• #2: Arizona State University
• #3: University of Florida
• #4: Florida International University
• #5: Georgia Institute of Technology
• #6: University of North Dakota
• #7: University of Colorado Boulder
• #8: Auburn University
• #9: University of Missouri – St. Louis
• #10: Regis University

More on Our Picks

Oregon State University Ecampus

Vault Verified

Why we chose it: Oregon State University offers a reputable online computer science degree as well as the option to fast-track your education with a post-baccalaureate option that earns a degree in half the time. OSU is institutionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Students attending the university’s Ecampus can choose from two programs: applied computer science or cybersecurity, with an honors degree available.

• Cybersecurity degree option
• Fast-track post-bacc option
• 89% acceptance rate
• 180 credits required for bachelor’s
• Price rises to $561 per credit hour for post-baccalaureate degree
• 65% graduation rate

Arizona State University

Why we chose it: Students at Arizona State University Online can choose a bachelor’s in computer science, earning the same degree as students who attend the school on campus. ASU (including its online program) is a large public university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

• ABET-accredited program
• Same course content as on-campus courses
• 70% acceptance rate
• Credits hours are pricey
• Minimum test scores required for admission
• Transfer students need a 3.0 GPA or better

University of Florida

Why we chose it: Students at the University of Florida Online can combine a liberal arts foundation with computer science skills when they enroll in the B.S. in computer science program. This medium-sized public school, which is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), offers a very low average cost ($4,500) and high average earnings compared to the median.

• 72% graduation rate
• Low in-state tuition
• High average earnings compared to median
• Test scores required for admission
• 66% admissions rate
• Higher tuition for out-of-state students

Florida International University

Why we chose it: Students at Florida International University, a large public institution based in Miami, have the option to earn an online B.A. in computer science. This is an online CS degree with a twist: students can add skills in other fields, such as business or health. This may make you more marketable and open the door to solving technology programs in other fields. A B.A. or B.S. in information technology and a B.S. in computer engineering are a few of the other fully-online options at FIU. FIU’s computer science undergraduate programs are accredited by ABET.

• B.A. in computer science is less math-and-science-heavy than a B.S.
• Affordable tuition for in-state students
• ABET accredited
• Costly for out-of-state students
• A B.A. degree won’t be the right fit for some students
• 67% graduation rate

Georgia Tech

Why we chose it: For students looking for an affordable, graduate-level computer science degree, the Online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS) from Georgia Institute of Technology may be worth exploring. This program offers an M.S. via a massive open online course (MOOC) format, which provides asynchronous instruction for just $180 per credit hour. You can take up to six years to graduate.

• Affordable graduate-level degree
• Self-paced instruction
• Federal aid eligible
• 16% acceptance rate
• Not all students are seeking a graduate degree
• MOOC format may not be suitable for some students

University of North Dakota

• ABET-accredited
• Access to on-campus computing labs
• Select courses offer synchronous lectures
• 52% graduation rate
• Asynchronous format may be challenging for some students

University of Colorado Boulder

Why we chose it: If you already have a bachelor’s degree but want to go back to school for computer science, the University of Colorado Boulder offers a post-baccalaureate option. There’s also a master’s in computer science degree option with no bachelor’s required. UC Boulder offers working adults flexibility, free tutoring, outstanding student support and accelerated degree options.

• Post-bacc and master’s options
• Robust student support services
• Test scores not required for admission
• May not be a fit for first-time students
• No traditional bachelor’s option for computer science

Why we chose it: An online computer science degree from Auburn University is ideal for transfer students or someone seeking a second degree. As a large public university based in Auburn, Alabama, the school offers flexible education from an ABET-accredited program.

• Fully online
• Requires 60 credit hours to graduate
• Test scores recommended for admission
• More suitable for transfer students

University of Missouri – St. Louis

Why we chose it: Students at the University of Missouri–St. Louis have several options for earning an online computer science degree, including a B.S. in computer science, B.S. in computing technology and a B.S. in cybersecurity with an emphasis in computer science. You can also earn online certificates in computer programming, cybersecurity, mobile apps and computing. All online computer science programs at this mid-sized public university are STEM-designated, and the school is recognized by the Department of Homeland Security and National Security Administration for excellence in cybersecurity education.

• Multiple degree options
• STEM-designated programs
• DHS/NSA-recognized programs
• 59% graduation rate
• 57% acceptance rate
• Average earnings post-graduation

Regis University

Why we chose it: Regis University is a medium-sized private school based in Denver, Colorado, and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its undergraduate computer science program is accredited by ABET (formerly the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc.) and can be completed entirely online. Motivated students have the option to earn their bachelor’s and master’s simultaneously with Regis’s FastForward program.

• 100% online program
• Can earn master’s simultaneously
• On the expensive side
• 58% graduation rate
• Low faculty diversity

How to Choose an Online Computer Science Program

Choosing the right online computer science program will depend on your reasons for choosing an online CS degree. Are you focused on flexibility, price or prestige? Narrow down your options for online computer science programs by considering the following factors:

• Accreditation: The school you choose must be an accredited institution. Regionally accredited schools are a good choice, and ABET accreditation for a computer science program is a reputable marker of quality.
• Cost: Look at the overall tuition you’ll need to pay, and consider whether speeding up your progress (such as with an accelerated program) will save you money. If you’re looking for an online degree completion program, check whether your current credits will transfer.
• Reputation: A university’s reputation doesn’t guarantee the sort of education you’ll receive, but it could open doors to post-graduate employment.
• Outcomes: Regarding employment, check out how graduates fare on the job market, what their average salary is and what kinds of employers hire them.
• Student support: Another factor that can determine your success at an online university is the level of student support you’ll receive. Look for schools that offer tutoring and student services as well as career coaching and support.

How To Apply

Applying to an online computer science program is much like applying to any other online college: You’ll provide your personal information, academic history, letters of reference and other documents. And you may need to pay an application fee. When you’ve chosen a school that seems to meet your needs, you can apply online using the following steps.

• Submit the correct application: You may need to use a specific application type depending on the number of transferable credits you have. Some schools require you to apply using an application specific to the online program, while others accept both the Common App and direct application. Check carefully that you’re using the right application for the program you’re interested in and your previous college credits (if any).
• Transcript: Typically, you’ll need to provide information about your prior academic history, whether that’s your official high school transcript, your previous bachelor’s degree, or something else. The school will specify during the application process what documentation is required.
• Test scores: If your application requires standardized test scores or college placement information, you may need to arrange to have these sent to the school directly from the testing service. This is more likely if you’ve graduated from high school within the past few years.
• Essay: Some applicants may be required to submit an essay for admission. Take the time to craft a personalized essay according to the application prompt and submit it in the proper format.
• Track your application: You may be able to complete your application in stages, saving it and resuming your work later. After you’ve submitted your application, paid any necessary application fees, and uploaded your documents, track your application progress to make sure you don’t miss any requests for more documentation from the school.

Should You Enroll in a Computer Science Program?

A computer science degree can lay the foundation for your career and help uplevel your salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , the average annual salary for computer science and information technology professionals was $100,530 as of May 2022, more than double the median annual salary of $46,310.

But incomes are never guaranteed, and you’ll need to weigh the price of your education against your future earnings prospects as well as the opportunity cost of spending two years or more studying for a new degree. As you consider whether enrolling in an online computer science program is worth it, keep in mind the following factors.

Career Opportunities

The number of open roles in computer science is expected to outpace many other fields, with an average of 377,500 openings projected each year, according to the BLS. Completing an online computer science degree can open the door to new jobs and even whole new careers, including programming, software development, data analysis and cybersecurity.

Income Potential

According to data from the U.S. Department of Education , graduates of our top 10 online computer science programs earn an average of $50,876 to $96,375 annually in the years after completing their degree.

Online Convenience

If your question isn’t whether you should get a computer science degree, but whether to complete it online, consider how important convenience and flexibility are to you. If you’re a busy working adult with family or volunteer commitments, online classes might best fit your schedule. Online schools also allow you to skip the hassle of meeting on campus, so you won’t need to worry about commuting, parking or paying for room and board.

Cost is often another factor when deciding what degree to earn and where to earn it. While not every choice on our list has a discounted price tag, you’ll often find that online colleges offer a more affordable path to a degree compared to traditional residential schools.

How To Pay for Your Degree

If you want to get your CS degree online, you have a few options for paying for it. Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help you and your university determine whether you’re eligible for federal student loans, grants or other types of aid. Some universities may require you to complete a CSS Profile, which helps determine whether you’re eligible for non-federal student aid.

• Financial aid: This includes federal Direct Loans, which may be subsidized or unsubsidized by the federal government. These loans must be repaid after you graduate. PLUS loans are federal loans for graduate or professional students or parents of students. Federal grants, such as Pell grants, do not need to be repaid. Federal work-study provides employment which helps students pay for school.
• Scholarships: Scholarships may be given by the school, a department within the school, or an outside organization to help you pay for tuition. They don’t need to be repaid but they can be taxable in some instances.
• Employer funding: Many employers offer tuition assistance to employees to help pay for college, although the amount and timeline may depend on whether you’re full-time or part-time and how long you’ve been with the company, among other factors.
• Tuition assistance: Military members may be able to use Tuition Assistance to pay for college while on duty, up to $4,500 per year depending on the branch.

Accreditation for Online Computer Science Degrees

A university’s accreditation shows it complies with certain quality standards as determined by the accrediting agency. Choosing an accredited online school helps you ensure that you’re paying for high-quality instruction, not a diploma mill, and it’s also a requirement to receive federal financial aid.

For online computer science degrees, the program’s accreditation can be important too. Many CS programs are accredited by ABET, which evaluates the course content, assessments, student outcomes and several other factors. A CS program that is ABET-accredited has demonstrated that it meets these standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are online computer science degrees worth it.

Online computer science degrees, just like any other CS degree, can help you find a new job and earn a good salary. The only difference is that you’ve completed your education remotely instead of attending classes on campus. According to the U.S. Department of Education , the median salary for computer and IT jobs tops six figures and more than 680,000 jobs in this field are expected to be added by 2031. So an online computer science degree could be a valuable investment in your career.

Is It Better to Learn Computer Science Online or In Person?

The best learning format for computer science will depend on your preferences as a student. If you prefer to study at your own pace, need more flexibility and have the discipline to manage your time and assignments from home, online school could be a good fit. On the other hand, if face time with your professor and classmates is a higher priority and you depend on the routine of traveling to class, you may find an on-campus degree to be a better option.

What Are Some High-Paying Jobs I Can Get With A Computer Science Degree?

With a bachelor’s degree, the average salary for computer network architects is $126,900. For database administrators, it’s $112,120, and for information security analysts, it’s $112,00. You can see more median salaries for this industry by checking the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook .

Article Sources

At Newsweek Vault, our team of dedicated writers and editors are not just experts in their respective fields but also committed to delivering content that meets the highest standards of journalistic integrity. We analyze primary sources, including peer-reviewed studies, authoritative government sites and insights from leading industry professionals and ensure that every piece of information is researched, fact-checked and presented with accuracy and relevance.

• Occupational Outlook Handbook . U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accessed on March 31, 2024.
• Compare Schools and Fields of Study . U.S. Department of Education. Accessed on March 31, 2024.
• Computer Science Education Week: Explore In-Demand IT Jobs . U.S. Department of Labor Blog. Accessed on March 31, 2024.

Related Links

Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. We may earn a commission from partner links on Newsweek, but commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.

10 colleges and universities shaping the future of cybersecurity education

Institutions featured on this list often provide undergraduate and graduate degrees, courses, as well as certificate programs tailored to meet the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals in various industries.

Some notable colleges and universities renowned for their cybersecurity programs and courses include:

Carnegie Mellon University (USA)

Information Networking Institute (INI)

The Information Networking Institute (INI) at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) educates and develops engineers through technical, interdisciplinary master’s degree programs in information networking, security and mobile and IoT engineering that incorporate business and policy perspectives.

Program : Master of Science in Information Security (MSIS)

Georgia Institute of Technology (USA)

Institute for Information Security & Privacy (IISP)

The Georgia Institute of Technology’s Institute for Information Security & Privacy (IISP) is a research institution dedicated to advancing cybersecurity and privacy technologies. Established within Georgia Tech, the IISP serves as a focal point for interdisciplinary research, education, and collaboration in the field of information security and privacy.

Program : Master of Science in Cybersecurity

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (USA)

MIT Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

A joint venture between the Schwarzman College of Computing and the School of Engineering, EECS is grounded in three overlapping sub-units: electrical engineering (EE), computer science (CS), and artificial intelligence and decision-making (AI+D).

• Computer Science and Engineering
• Artificial Intelligence and Decision Making

Stanford University (USA)

Cyber Policy Center and Computer Science Department

The Cyber Policy Center brings together researchers across the Stanford campus to solve the biggest issues in cybersecurity, governance and the future of work.

• Global Digital Policy Incubator
• The Program on Platform Regulation
• Geopolitics, Technology, and Governance

SANS Technology Institute (USA)

An independent subsidiary of SANS, the SANS Technology Institute offers graduate programs (master’s degree and graduate certificates) that develop technically-adept leaders and undergraduate programs (bachelor’s degree and undergraduate certificate) for people who want to enter the cybersecurity field.

Program : Cybersecurity Master’s Degree

University of California, Berkeley (USA)

School of Information

The School of Information is a graduate research and education community committed to expanding access to information and to improving its usability, reliability, and credibility while preserving security and privacy. This requires the insights of scholars from diverse fields — information and computer science, design, social sciences, management, law, and policy.

Program : Master of Information and Cybersecurity (MICS)

University of Cambridge (UK)

Department of Computer Science and Technology

The Department of Computer Science and Technology (formerly known as the Computer Laboratory) is the academic department within the University of Cambridge that encompasses computer science, along with many aspects of technology, engineering and mathematics.

• Cybersecurity
• Software and Security Engineering

University of Oxford (UK)

Global Cyber Security Capacity Centre (GCSCC)

The Global Cyber Security Capacity Centre (GCSCC) is an international centre for research on efficient and effective cybersecurity capacity-building, promoting an increase in the scale, pace, quality and impact of cybersecurity capacity-building initiatives across the world.

Course : MSc in Software and Systems Security

Technische Universität Darmstadt (Germany)

Department of Computer Science

The scientists of the Department of Computer Science combine their diverse research activities in three main research areas:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Complex Networked Systems
• Cybersecurity & Privacy

Program : Master’s degree program IT Security

Tel Aviv University (Israel)

Research is a cornerstone of Tel Aviv University’s mission, with its scholars making discoveries in fields ranging from biotechnology and cybersecurity to archaeology and social sciences.

• Cyber Security Program
• Cyber Politics & Government

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• skill development
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Best Certifications for Computer Science: How to Gain Foundational Skills to Enter the Field

Demand for computer science professionals is growing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment in computer and information technology should increase considerably faster than the average across all occupations over the next decade. Specific job roles projected to sustain high growth include information security analysts (32 percent expected growth), software developers and quality assurance analysts and testers (25 percent), and computer and information research scientists (23 percent).

Meanwhile, the widespread adoption of emerging technologies—including cloud computing, big data, and artificial intelligence—is intensifying the need for computer science professionals with specialized skills and knowledge. According to a recent Deloitte article , companies are struggling to fill such senior technical roles as system architects, cybersecurity specialists, and those requiring artificial intelligence (AI) expertise.

Industry demand suggests that now is a good time to pivot to a career in computer science. To do that, you’ll need to build foundational computer science skills and knowledge. An online certificate program may offer the ideal opportunity to kickstart your computing career by adding skills in data structures, algorithms, hardware, and systems.

Pivot to a Career in Computer Science

Earn a post-baccalaureate certificate in computer science from tufts, computer science certificate vs. computer science certification: what’s the difference.

As you research various computer science credentials, you will likely come across references to computer science certificates and computer science certifications . Despite the similarity of the two terms, they are different.

Computer science certifications are typically offered by industry associations and platforms. They focus on skills and knowledge pertaining to a specific company’s product (like Amazon or Apple) or a particular skill set (such as data management or information security), In contrast, computer science certificates , like the Tufts University Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science , are offered by educational institutions. They typically provide students with foundational knowledge applicable across multiple computer science functions.

What is a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate?

A post-baccalaureate certificate is an academic credential targeted to students with bachelor’s degrees who want to develop new skills or enter a new industry. Computer science post-baccalaureate certificate programs, like the one offered by Tufts , focus on providing students with the foundational courses needed to pursue a new career in technology. Tufts’ Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science offers two tracks : a certificate track and a master’s track.

Computer Science Certificates to Enter the Workforce

A post-baccalaureate certificate can help you gain the skills necessary to enter the computer science field. Tufts online post-baccalaureate in computer science students take courses in data structures, algorithms, and discrete mathematics to build their baseline knowledge. They can also choose electives that align with their career interests in such disciplines as programming languages, operating systems, security, and machine learning.

Upon completing the program, Tufts post-baccalaureate certificate holders should be prepared to:

• -Write reliable and efficient programs in high-level language
• -Find and fix security flaws in programs and systems
• -Prove important properties of fundamental algorithms and data structures
• -Employ a range of proof techniques and mathematical formalisms to analyze computational problems
• -Provide reasoning about the semantics and structure of programming languages
• -Employ machine learning models to find complex patterns in data sets
• -Analyze the complexity of computational problems
• -Develop complex software, following best practices and industry standards

Knowledgeable faculty lead the Tufts online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science program, which forms part of Tufts University, a world-class research institution. The Tufts University School of Engineering is committed to providing transformative, hands-on education that equips students with a forward-thinking mindset and the technical skills to pursue improved career options.

Computer Science Certificates to Prepare for Graduate Study

Prospective students considering a master’s degree can benefit from a post-baccalaureate certificate. Tufts’ Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science program teaches foundational computer science to prepare students with no experience in the field to succeed in a computer science master’s program. The program offers an alternative master’s track that begins with two undergraduate courses, then transitions to master’s-level study in the Tufts Online Master of Science in Computer Science program.

Computer Science Certification Courses for Professional Development

Prospective computing professionals have numerous industry certifications and courses to choose from. These certifications typically best serve the needs of professionals looking to add specific skills to their resume, making them valuable supplements to a post-baccalaureate certificate.

Industry organizations—like the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA)— offer various certification options focused on different skill levels and specializations (e.g., security, cloud computing). Prominent platforms often offer their own certifications, validating your ability to use their technology expertly. These include Amazon Web Services (AWS) certifications , Microsoft Credentials , and Oracle Certifications focusing on MySQL products .

Pursuing Your Post-Baccalaureate at Tufts University

Which certifications for computer science careers and professional advancement best suit your needs largely depends on your professional goals. If you’re looking to pivot to a career in computer science, you may want to consider earning a formal certificate distinction, like the one from Tufts University.

The Tufts online Post-Baccalaureate Computer Science Certificate program is designed to teach comprehensive, foundational computer science knowledge and skills to help you advance your career. Get in touch with an enrollment advisor to learn more about the program or start your application today if you’re ready. 

Acquire Foundational Computer Science Knowledge and Skills

Embark on a new career in computing.

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Engineering Students Triumph at UC Grad Slam

• by College of Engineering Communications
• April 26, 2024

UC Davis graduate students from various programs came together on April 12 for the semi-final of the 2024 Grad Slam . Out of the top 10 finalists, an impressive five hailed from graduate groups and programs led by the College of Engineering. 

Among the finalists was Sasha Pimento, a master’s student in the computer science graduate group. Pimento took the title of Campus Champion, which comes with a $5,000 award and the chance to represent UC Davis at the University of California 2024 Grad Slam Finals event at the LinkedIn headquarters in San Francisco on May 3. 

Pimento becomes the second master's student in the history of UC Davis Grad Slam to win the campus competition. Her pitch, “Opening doors for Alzheimer’s disease care,” also garnered attention from ABC10 who ran a story on her win.

Congratulations are also in order for Prabhash Ragbir, a Ph.D. student in mechanical and aerospace engineering, who secured the second-place position, earning a commendable $2,000 award and Roshy Shetty, a Ph.D. student in biomedical engineering, who received both the Public Impact award and the People's Choice award, each accompanied by a $500 prize.

Stay tuned to witness the competition's finale unfold on May 3, which can be streamed live on the UC Grand Slam website.

Read more about Pimento and the other finalists

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