CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Ph.D. in Computer Science
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€45k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 5 yearsTypical program duration
- 96 unitsCoursework requirement
- Comprehensive financial supportFor PhD students in good academic standing
- Research-focused degreeEmphasis on original contributions
- Teaching assistant opportunitiesDevelop pedagogical skills
Carnegie Mellon's Ph.D. in Computer Science is fundamentally a research-focused degree. Upon completion, students are recognized for possessing a broad understanding of core computer science concepts and for making significant original contributions to the field through scholarly research. The program begins with an intensive two-week introductory course designed to orient new doctoral students to the department, introduce them to faculty research interests, assist in finding an advisor, and familiarize them with university resources. Students then build a comprehensive foundation in computer science through coursework and independent research. The curriculum requires students to master graduate-level material by completing 96 university units (equivalent to eight full-time courses). Throughout the program, students will engage in directed research, develop essential writing and speaking skills, maintain programming proficiency, and serve as teaching assistants. Progress is regularly evaluated, and satisfactory advancement is necessary to continue in the program. The typical duration is approximately five years, during which students work closely with a faculty advisor from the second month onwards to guide their education and research.
Curriculum
The Ph.D. program requires students to gain a broad understanding of fundamental research issues in major areas of computer science through coursework and original research. Students must complete 96 university units of graduate courses and engage in directed research.
- Year 1
- Introductory Course for Doctoral Students
- Graduate Coursework
- Directed Research
- Teaching Assistantship
- Year 2-5
- Advanced Coursework
- Original Research
- Thesis Writing and Defense
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for the Ph.D. in Computer Science program?
- For the 2026-2027 academic year, the doctoral tuition is $52,300 per academic year. The total estimated cost of attendance also includes living expenses and health insurance.
- What is the expected duration of the Ph.D. in Computer Science program?
- The typical duration for the Ph.D. in Computer Science program is approximately five years.
- What are the application deadlines for the Ph.D. in Computer Science program?
- The application for the Ph.D. in Computer Science program opens on September 9, 2026, and the application deadline is typically in December or January for Fall admission.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants whose native language is not English must submit English proficiency test scores. A minimum TOEFL iBT score of 100 is normally expected, and waivers are not issued.
- What kind of financial support is available for Ph.D. students?
- Ph.D. students in good academic standing receive comprehensive financial support. Funding opportunities include the Rales Fellowship Program and various grants for conference attendance, professional engagement, and scholarly projects.
- What are the career prospects after completing the Ph.D. in Computer Science?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in research and academia, advancing the field through original research and possessing a broad foundation in computer science.
Entry requirements
TOEFL100 iBT (minimum)
For the M.S. in Automated Science: Biological Experimentation, undergraduate degrees in Computer Science, Biology, Chemistry, or Biomedical Engineering are strongly encouraged. Completed college-level coursework in life sciences, statistics, and programming is required. Familiarity with algorithms and data structures is ideal. Note that the Ph.D. in Computer Science itself does not list specific undergraduate degree requirements but focuses on a strong foundation for research. English language proficiency is mandatory for non-native speakers and waivers are not provided. Test scores from previous study in the US or English-speaking countries outside the US do not exempt applicants from the English proficiency requirement.
Fees
Tuition (international)Doctoral Tuition: $52,300 per academic year
Tuition (home)Doctoral Tuition: $52,300 per academic year
LivingEstimated Total Living Expenses (per academic year, excluding tuition and health insurance): Housing $14,752; Food $8,664; Books and Supplies $2,212; Personal and Misc. $4,098; Travel Allowance $1,756; Transportation Fee $302; Technology Fee $490. Total estimated living costs: $32,574.
Tuition and fees are for the 2026-2027 academic year. The total estimated cost of attendance per academic year is tuition ($52,300) plus estimated living expenses ($32,574) plus health insurance (TBD). Student Activities Fee is $244 per academic year.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all required documents including transcripts, resume, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.
2. Submit TranscriptsUpload a PDF of the most recent transcript from each college and/or university attended.
3. Submit ResumeUpload your resume in PDF format.
4. Write Statement of PurposeDetail your research interests, experience, and objectives. Optionally, include a paragraph on contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
5. Arrange Letters of RecommendationSecure three letters of recommendation, with at least two from faculty or recent employers.
6. Submit English Proficiency Test ScoresRequired if your native language is not English. A minimum TOEFL iBT score of 100 is normally expected. Waivers are not issued for non-native English speakers.
7. Complete and Submit ApplicationFill out the online application form and submit all required materials by the application deadline.
Scholarships
Rales Fellowship Program—
Conference Funding—
Professional Engagement Funding—
Scholarly Project Funding$750
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for the Ph.D. in Computer Science program?
+
For the 2026-2027 academic year, the doctoral tuition is $52,300 per academic year. The total estimated cost of attendance also includes living expenses and health insurance.
What is the expected duration of the Ph.D. in Computer Science program?
+
The typical duration for the Ph.D. in Computer Science program is approximately five years.
What are the application deadlines for the Ph.D. in Computer Science program?
+
The application for the Ph.D. in Computer Science program opens on September 9, 2026, and the application deadline is typically in December or January for Fall admission.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants whose native language is not English must submit English proficiency test scores. A minimum TOEFL iBT score of 100 is normally expected, and waivers are not issued.
What kind of financial support is available for Ph.D. students?
+
Ph.D. students in good academic standing receive comprehensive financial support. Funding opportunities include the Rales Fellowship Program and various grants for conference attendance, professional engagement, and scholarly projects.
What are the career prospects after completing the Ph.D. in Computer Science?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in research and academia, advancing the field through original research and possessing a broad foundation in computer science.