UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS · UNITED STATES
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
7.0
IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Ranked among top programs by U.S. News & World ReportNational Ranking
- 1 of 38 public institutions with AAU membershipResearch Excellence
- 114 countries representedInternational Diversity
- 18 to 1 student to faculty ratioPersonalized Attention
- 93% graduates employed or in grad school within 6 monthsCareer Success
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Computer Science program at the University of Kansas aims to educate the next generation of leading computer scientists and researchers. The program fosters a challenging intellectual environment focused on advancing knowledge and contributing to societal progress through technological innovation. Students are prepared for impactful careers in academia and industry, driving the future of computing. The Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) is committed to research excellence in selected areas and to providing an outstanding educational experience. The Ph.D. program emphasizes rigorous coursework, advanced research, and the development of critical thinking skills necessary for groundbreaking discoveries and contributions to the field.
Curriculum
The Ph.D. program requires a minimum of 37 credit hours, including coursework and dissertation research. Students admitted with a Master's degree may transfer up to 18 credit hours from their previous studies. A significant portion of the coursework must be at the 700-level or higher, excluding certain research and thesis hours.
- Year 1
- Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Colloquium and Seminar on Professional IssuesEECS 802
- Graduate Coursework
- Subsequent Years
- Dissertation ResearchEECS 999
Careers
Graduates of the Ph.D. in Computer Science program are well-prepared for advanced roles in research and development, academia, and leadership positions within the technology sector. The program equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical research skills to contribute significantly to the field.
- Researcher
- Data Scientist
- Software Architect
- University Professor
- Technology Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What are the admission requirements for the PhD in Computer Science program?
- Applicants need official transcripts showing a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or a foreign university with equivalent requirements, and evidence of aptitude for graduate work. International students must also submit TOEFL or IELTS scores, with IELTS requiring a minimum overall score of 7.0.
- How much does the PhD in Computer Science program cost?
- Tuition and fee details are available on the KU Tuition & Fees website, with specific costs varying by program and enrollment status. International students should also consult the World KU page for scholarships and aid.
- How long does the PhD program typically take to complete?
- The PhD program requires a minimum of 37 credit hours, including coursework and dissertation research. Students admitted with a Master's degree may transfer up to 18 credit hours.
- What are the application deadlines for the PhD in Computer Science program?
- For Fall admission, the priority deadline is December 15 and the final deadline is April 1. For Spring admission, the priority deadline is October 1 and the final deadline is November 1.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing the PhD in Computer Science?
- Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Researcher, Data Scientist, Software Architect, University Professor, and Technology Consultant within the technology sector.
- Are there opportunities for financial aid or scholarships for international students?
- Fellowships and assistantships are available, and students applying by priority deadlines are considered for these opportunities. Eligibility for Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) and Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) positions have specific requirements.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeOfficial transcripts showing proof of a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or a foreign university with equivalent requirements.
Graduate AptitudeEvidence of aptitude for graduate work shown through undergraduate and graduate coursework performance, GRE scores, and academic letters of reference.
TOEFLHigher than general KU requirement (specific score not provided)
IELTS7.0 (minimum overall)
Applicants with strong academic credentials may be admitted directly to the Ph.D. program without a Master's degree. Applicants for teaching assistantships must achieve satisfactory scores on the Test of Spoken English. Students may be required to take English courses upon arrival based on proficiency assessment at the Applied English Center (AEC).
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the KU Tuition & Fees page for graduate students for current estimates.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the KU Tuition & Fees page for graduate students for current estimates.
LivingInformation on living costs is available through campus housing rates and general cost of living estimates.
Tuition and fee details are available on the KU Tuition & Fees website. Specific costs vary by program and enrollment status. International students should also consult the World KU page for scholarships and aid.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit your application through the KU Graduate Admissions online portal.
2. Submit Statement of Objectives and ResumeClearly articulate your academic and research goals, and provide a comprehensive resume.
3. Provide Official TranscriptsSubmit official transcripts from all previously attended post-secondary institutions.
4. Obtain Letters of RecommendationRequest letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can attest to your abilities.
5. Submit English Proficiency ScoresInternational students must submit official TOEFL or IELTS scores to KU Graduate Admissions.
6. Submit Financial StatementInternational students are required to submit a financial statement.
7. Submit GRE Scores (Optional)While optional, GRE scores can be submitted to support your application (school code: 6871).
Scholarships
Fellowships and AssistantshipsNot specified
Accreditation
The University of Kansas is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
Frequently asked questions
What are the admission requirements for the PhD in Computer Science program?
+
Applicants need official transcripts showing a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or a foreign university with equivalent requirements, and evidence of aptitude for graduate work. International students must also submit TOEFL or IELTS scores, with IELTS requiring a minimum overall score of 7.0.
How much does the PhD in Computer Science program cost?
+
Tuition and fee details are available on the KU Tuition & Fees website, with specific costs varying by program and enrollment status. International students should also consult the World KU page for scholarships and aid.
How long does the PhD program typically take to complete?
+
The PhD program requires a minimum of 37 credit hours, including coursework and dissertation research. Students admitted with a Master's degree may transfer up to 18 credit hours.
What are the application deadlines for the PhD in Computer Science program?
+
For Fall admission, the priority deadline is December 15 and the final deadline is April 1. For Spring admission, the priority deadline is October 1 and the final deadline is November 1.
What career paths can I pursue after completing the PhD in Computer Science?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Researcher, Data Scientist, Software Architect, University Professor, and Technology Consultant within the technology sector.
Are there opportunities for financial aid or scholarships for international students?
+
Fellowships and assistantships are available, and students applying by priority deadlines are considered for these opportunities. Eligibility for Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) and Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) positions have specific requirements.