PhD Program Overview

The aim of the program is for students to acquire the skills to produce successful research in Computer Science. A central component of the program is the interaction of the student with their research advisor, and with the research community.

Applying and Admission describes the application process for the PhD program.

The PhD program is described in the PhD Handbook. It proceeds in three phases, typically over six years:

Qualifying Phase: acquire a basis of knowledge, techniques, and skills in Computer Science

Candidacy Phase: complete coursework, refine research skills, and determine a dissertation research plan

Dissertation Phase: write and defend a dissertation

During the first phase, the Qualifying Phase, the student demonstrates knowledge in several fundamental subareas of Computer Science through courses, starts doing research, and refines their research interests, including identifying a research advisor. They also produce a technical document (a research or survey paper) that demonstrates their qualification to pursue studies leading to a doctorate. The Qualifying Phase concludes with a Qualifying Exam, in which the student presents their paper.

Success in this Qualifying Exam leads to the Candidacy Phase, where the student is expected to identify a dissertation topic, continue doing research, and complete course requirements. This phase concludes with a Candidacy Exam, where the student demonstrates that they have developed a research direction and a viable plan for their PhD dissertation.

After successful completion of the Candidacy Exam, the student begins the Dissertation Phase and focuses on research, obtaining results that constitute their PhD dissertation. During this phase, the student may elect to complete the Practicum Option in collaboration with an external organization. The Dissertation Phase concludes with a Dissertation Defense.

For further information, please consult the PhD Handbook.