PhD in Computer Science

The PhD in Computer Science is considered a research degree. Candidates for this degree should have demonstrated research potential and interest. The minimum GPA for courses that will apply to your PhD is 3.45 so it is expected that your past coursework should indicate your ability to attain this minimum GPA in your graduate courses. Applicants can apply directly after receiving their bachelor’s degree as we do not require PhD applicants have a master’s first.

The PhD requires 43 credits of course work plus 24 PhD thesis credits. Credits from prior graduate work may be used towards the requirements. All PhD students must satisfy the breadth requirement which includes 6 courses, 2 from each of the 3 areas. One credit of Colloquium must also be included as well as 12 credits from a supporting program or a minor. The total credits should form a cohesive program of courses that are relevant to the subject area of your thesis and provide the background and depth normally expected of a student receiving the PhD degree. There are also certain mileposts along the way. These include the WPE (Written Preliminary Exam) which tests basic competency in computer science knowledge and is usually taken in the second year. A year or so later, after completing most or all of the required coursework, the Preliminary Oral Exam must be passed. This exam covers subject matter designed to test a student’s ability to do research in general and their preparation for their individual thesis topic. Upon passing the Preliminary Oral, students continue their research which culminates in publication of a unique thesis.