PhD in Computer and Information Sciences, General

This doctoral program turns out graduates who lead technically in computer science research. The School of Computing sits near Washington, DC, close to a large cluster of technology employers and research funders, and the faculty work across many areas of the field. Requirements include coursework, a breadth requirement, a comprehensive exam, plus a dissertation that must be put forward first and then defended. The program asks for 72 doctoral-level credits, typically split between regular coursework and dissertation research. Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree with a strong computing background and submit a resume, a statement of career goals and two reference letters. Applicants without a degree from a US university are advised to send GRE General Test results. The admissions committee reviews each application with care.