This doctoral program seeks to equip students to produce strong research in computing. At its core is the bond between student and research advisor and with the broader research community.
Progress is organized into three phases over a typical span of six years. The qualifying phase builds a base of knowledge, techniques and skills. The candidacy phase involves finishing coursework, refining research abilities and settling on a plan for the dissertation. The dissertation phase concludes with writing and defending the thesis.
During the first phase, students show command of several fundamental subareas through coursework, begin research and sharpen their interests, which includes choosing an advisor. They also prepare a technical document, either a research paper or a survey, demonstrating readiness to pursue doctoral study.
The department publishes a handbook describing the program in detail, along with separate pages on applying, fellowship opportunities, a joint program with mathematics, student leadership and career resources.
