Computer Science Ph.D.

During the first year, the student focuses on obtaining a breadth of knowledge in computer science. By the end of the first year, the student must pass a doctoral qualifying examination. This examination covers the material of four courses: CSCI 6050, CSCI 4020, CSCI 6140, and CSCI 4430.

The second year is devoted to research exploration and selection of a doctoral committee. By the end of the second year, students must pass a research qualifying exam demonstrating breadth of knowledge in their research area.

In the third year, the student develops a detailed understanding of the chosen research area and prepares a research proposal. The student must pass an oral candidacy exam by the end of the third year. The candidacy exam is an oral exam focusing on a thesis proposal and administered by the student’s doctoral committee. The student begins by presenting the thesis proposal and then is questioned by the committee.

In addition to the above requirements, the student must earn a total of 72 credits beyond the bachelor’s level with at least 36 course credits and at least 24 dissertation research credits.  Students entering the program with an M.S. degree must earn a total of 48 credits, at least 12 of which must be course credits and at least 24 dissertation research credits. All doctoral students are expected to have presented at least two public lectures on their research prior to their defense. At least one of the lectures must be for the Graduate Student Seminar. The other may be a conference presentation or invited lecture. Graduate students are expected to attend the Computer Science Colloquium series on a regular basis. The Ph.D. program culminates with the submission of a thesis and the oral dissertation defense.