• B S: Bachelor of Science
• C P T: Curricular Practical Training
• C R: Continuous Registration
• C O: Colorado
• C S: Computer Science
• C S U: Colorado State University
• D o E: Department of Energy
• D o D: Department of Defense
• G A: Graduate Assistant/Assistantship
• G P A: Grade Point Average
• G P B: Graduate Professional Bulletin
• G P C: Graduate Program Committee
• G R A: Graduate Research Assistant
• G R C: Graduate Recruiting Committee
• G R E: Graduate Records Examination
• G S – #: Graduate School – # of form
• G S A: Graduate Student Association
• G S C: Graduate Student Council
• G S M: Graduate Student Manual
• G T A: Graduate Teaching Assistant
• I E L T S: International English Language Testing System
• I S S S: International Student and Scholar Services
• M C S: Master of Computer Science
• M S: Master of Science
• N S F: National Science Foundation
• O I P: Office of International Programs
• P h D: Doctor of Philosophy
• P I: Principal Investigator
• P T E: Peterson Test of English
• R I: Research Initiation
• S O P: Statement of Purpose
• S T E M: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
• S / U: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
• T O E F L: Test of English as a Foreign Language
• W E S: World Education Services

The mission of the Computer Science Department at Colorado State University (CSU) is to provide the best possible undergraduate and graduate education in computer science, to conduct high quality research, and to disseminate knowledge obtained through graduate education and outreach programs, in order to serve the local, state and national needs in education, government, industry, and the profession. In fulfilling its mission, the department recognizes the importance of service to the department, college, university, and the external community.

Advanced courses and research in computer science cover diverse areas such as but not limited to the study of algorithm design, artificial intelligence/machine learning, bioinformatics, computer security, cyber-physical systems, databases, distributed systems, graphics, human computer interaction, networking, programming languages, and software engineering.

This manual is intended to help graduate students succeed and covers many aspects of the graduate program, including degree requirements, funding mechanisms, department expectations, and more. This manual may not answer all your questions; however, it should answer many of them and provide links to online documents that may provide additional answers. For questions not answered by this manual, students should consult with the Graduate Advisor, the Graduate Program Director, or their research advisor.

The requirements listed here are beyond those described in the University’s Graduate and Professional Bulletin, which specifies the minimum requirements common to all graduate degrees at CSU.

Graduate applications may be submitted for the following degrees:

• Master of Computer Science (M.C.S.), which is a course-only option.
• Master of Science (M.S.) (Plan A), which requires a thesis.
• Master of Science (M.S.) (Plan B Project), which requires a research project.
• Master of Science (M.S.) (Plan B Research Initiation (RI)), which is available only to students who get admitted by Fall 2026.
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), which requires a dissertation.

Students applying to a graduate program in the Computer Science (CS) Department need to submit their application to the graduate school using the graduate admissions application portal. Students need to be admitted both by the department and by the graduate school. Therefore, the admission process within the university has two steps: a departmental review is conducted, and the department makes a recommendation for admission or denial to the graduate school. Admission recommendations are evaluated by the graduate school to ensure that their standards and requirements are made, following which they make the final decision to admit. The process for new graduate students and current students in other departments at CSU, is described on the department’s grad application website. For students who are already in the department, the process is described in Section 7: Change of Program.

Students applying to the Ph.D. program should have demonstrated research potential in an area of one or more members of the CSU computer science faculty. Ways to demonstrate research ability include undergraduate or graduate research projects, published or posted writings, volunteer positions especially related to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), leadership positions at school or work, published extensions of class projects, etc. Ph.D. admission is highly competitive; only the most highly qualified applicants are admitted to the program.

SECTION 2.1: REQUIRED MATERIALS

The required materials are the same for all degree programs except for current CSU students or alumnae. Past and current CSU students as well as domestic M.C.S. applicants can have the Graduate Records Examination (GRE) waived.

Statement of Purpose (SOP)

A Statement of Purpose for the computer science graduate application is a 2-3 page essay that explains your academic background, technical experience, research interests, and career goals, while demonstrating your fit for the specific program you’re applying for.

It should begin with a clear introduction outlining your motivation for studying computer science at CSU and the specific areas that interest you. The body should highlight your academic preparation, including relevant coursework and skills, followed by a detailed discussion of any research, projects, or professional experience that showcases your ability to solve problems and engage in technical work. You should then describe your current research interests and how they connect to your past experiences, as well as your future academic or career goals.

A strong SOP also includes a tailored section explaining why the specific program is a good fit, referencing faculty, research groups, or program strengths. The essay should conclude with a concise summary reinforcing your qualifications and goals. Throughout, the writing should be clear, focused, and specific, avoiding repetition of your resume and emphasizing meaningful experiences and direction.

Letters of Recommendation

A minimum of three letters should be submitted to the prospective student’s application. These recommenders should have general knowledge and speak to the applicant’s technical ability and/or academic experience in computer science. These letters are submitted by the recommender themselves and should be signed on official letterhead.

Transcripts

Applicants may apply to the program with unofficial transcripts. Transcripts from every university attended should be included. If recommended for admission, the university requires official transcripts and/or proof of diploma prior to receiving an official admission letter.

For international applicants, World Education Services (WES) transcripts are encouraged and accepted, though not required.

Test Scores

All applicants, except CSU alum and domestic M.C.S. students, are required to submit Graduate Records Examination (GRE) scores. There is no minimum score requirement to apply. Scores may be sent directly to CSU using code 4075. The Computer Science Department does not offer GRE waivers for any reason.

For international applicants, official test scores for English proficiency are required. The department requires minimum scores of 6.5 International English Language Testing System (IELTS), 59 Peterson Test of English (PTE), or 120 Duolingo to be considered. For Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): (including the TOEFL My Best Score) Minimum score of 550 (paper based). The 80 (Internet based) minimum score changes, effective January 2026, to a new 4.5 (Internet based) minimum score. Proof of English language proficiency is required in cases where there are official languages other than, or in addition to, English. Students are exempted from the TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or PTE Academic requirement if the official language of their country is solely English, or if they have recently earned a degree at a university in the United States, or if they have recently earned a degree from a university in a country listed on the English Language Proficiency Exempt List maintained by the Graduate School.

Application Fee

All applicants are required to pay the application fee before their application can be considered by the admissions committee. The CS department does not offer any application fee waivers however, there are some university sponsored waivers to Skip the Fee and Apply for Free.

The common requirements are related to the advisor and committee, as well as some core courses. All regular courses used to satisfy the core as well as other degree requirements must use conventional grading (no Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory (S/U) audit grading options allowed). The CSU catalog defines a regular course as one whose last two digits are strictly less than 82. Non-regular courses in the CS department include independent study, research seminar, internship, thesis, and dissertation.

SECTION 3.1: ADVISOR AND COMMITTEE DESIGNATION

3.1.1: Advisor and Committee

The student-advisor relationship becomes official when the student’s GS-6 form is approved by the advisor and the graduate school. Committee members don’t sign the GS-6, but it is common courtesy to seek their permission prior to submitting their names. For information regarding who can serve, please refer to the Advisor & Committee Requirement page.

M.C.S and M.S. Plan B, Research Initiation (RI)

The advisor and committee are individualized to each student, except for M.C.S. and the Plan B Research Initiation (RI) option for students. M.C.S. students need only have an advisor. RI students will be required to fill out the GS-6 with an advisor, committee member, and outside committee member. For these students, they are assigned by default. M.C.S and M.S. Plan B students should talk with the graduate advisor to get default committee details. Please be aware that the RI option will not be available to students beginning Spring 2027 or after.

M.S. Plan A, Thesis and Plan B, Project

M.S. students need a primary advisor, a committee member or co-advisor, and an outside committee member. These members are chosen by the student in consultation with the primary advisor based on their interests and experience.

Students select their advisor by mutual consent, as a mentor-mentee relationship develops through courses, department and research seminars, and one-on-one discussion. No faculty member is obligated to advise any student, and neither is a student obligated to work with a faculty member. The department is also not responsible for assigning a research advisor to a student. The advisor is the chief mentor in a graduate student’s education. This individual works closely with the student throughout the graduate career on all matters related to the degree program.

Ph.D.

For the Ph.D. program, students need 4 members: an advisor, a co-advisor OR committee member, a committee member, and an outside CS committee member. Students select their advisor by mutual consent, as a mentor-mentee relationship develops through courses, department and research seminars, and one-on-one discussions. No faculty member is obligated to advise any student, and neither is a student obligated to work with a faculty member. The department is also not responsible for assigning a research advisor to a student. The advisor is the chief mentor in a graduate student’s education. This individual works closely with the student throughout the graduate career on all matters related to the degree program.

Changing Advisors and/or Committee Members

Students wishing to change advisors or committee members for the Ph.D., M.S. Plan A and M.S. Plan B Project must first talk with all involved parties. Students changing committee members must fill out a GS-9A form and have it signed by their advisor. If switching advisors, both the former and the new advisor will need to sign off on the form.

Students with assistantships should be aware that changing advisors may impact their funding. If a student is being funded as a Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) by their advisor, then switching advisors may end the assistantship.

3.1.2: Plan of Study

Students must file a Program of Study (form GS-6) with the graduate school by the end of the second semester of their current program. This is one semester earlier than the graduate school deadline. The GS-6 is an official form, which identifies three important elements of graduate study: the advisor, the committee, and a tentative list of courses that the student plans to take. This form is located on your RamWeb.

The GS-6 lists all courses that the student has taken, currently taking, and plans to take. They must be in accordance with the University and Departmental degree requirements. Transfer credits (if approved, and up to the departmental and university limit for transfer credits), are reported on a separate Transfer Credit Evaluation form (GS-3). This must be done prior to submitting the GS-6. Students may deviate from the plan, as long as the changes still satisfy all degree requirements. Changes are reported in the final semester on the graduation application (GS-25).

GS-3 Transfer Credit Evaluation Form

As stated on the Graduate School website, “With a GS3 form, you may opt to request an evaluation of previously earned graduate-level course credits to find out if they can transfer and count toward your degree program. You can do this when you’re admitted or anytime while attending CSU. If you’re considering a transfer credit evaluation, we strongly recommend doing so when submitting your GS-6 Program of Study, as approved transfer credits may change what coursework is required for you to complete your degree.”

For any GS-3 request, the graduate school rules apply. Courses submitted for a transfer evaluation will be rejected if:

• The courses and grade are not listed on official transcript(s)
• Was not completed at a university accredited by a major regional accrediting agency
• Does not reflect an earned grade of B or higher
• Was completed 10 or more years ago
• Was previously used to fulfill requirements for another degree earned
• The course(s) are not equivalent to CSU graduate-level, regular courses (X00-X81)

Master’s students may request a transfer credit evaluation using the GS-3. The Graduate Program Committee (GPC) will evaluate the syllabus and transcripts from another university (US R1 or R2 only). A maximum of 8 graduate level coursework credits may count towards their M.S. or M.C.S. degree. Determination of how the credits will count will be up to the discretion of the GPC if the student decides to petition to waive degree requirements (Refer to Section 8.2: Petition to Waive Departmental Requirements).

By filing a GS-3, doctoral students can count 30 credits automatically from a previously earned master’s degree from any university. There is no need to list specific courses on the GS-3. If the doctoral student previously received a M.S. in CS from CSU, and was concurrently enrolled, the student may count all credits listed on the M.S. GS-6 towards their Ph.D. Since the student completed the M.S. in CS at CSU, they have already completed the CS 501 and coursework/group requirements and do not need to repeat these.

SECTION 3.2: COURSEWORK AND GROUP REQUIREMENTS

3.2.3: Coursework Requirements

All students must take at least six regular¹ graduate courses in the computer science department (4 credit hours each, total 24 credit hours) which creates the core. Within these six courses, students must satisfy the group requirements, as outlined below.

CS 500 level experimental courses can count towards the 24-credit core requirement. If the experimental course falls under a group category, students may use that as their group requirement. A maximum of 8 credit hours of 400 level regular CS coursework may be counted towards the coursework, but not the group requirements.

Group Requirements

To ensure adequate breadth of studies in multiple foundational areas, all students must take at least one course (4 credits each) from each of the following three groups.

Group I (AI & Theory):

• CS510 (Image Computation)
• CS520 (Analysis of Algorithms)
• CS522 (Foundations of Cyber-Physical Systems)
• CS523 (Foundations of Computation)
• CS525 (Bioinformatics Algorithms)
• CS540 (Artificial Intelligence)
• CS542 (Natural Language Processing)
• CS545 (Machine Learning)
• CS580A8 (Quantum Computing Algorithms)
• CS580B1 (Trustworthy Machine Learning)
• CS580B3 (AI for Software Engineering)
• CS580B5 (Principles of Quantum Algorithms and Optimization)

Group II (Systems):

• CS530 (Fault Tolerant Computing)
• CS535 (Big Data)
• CS553 (Compilers for High-Performance Program Generation)
• CS555 (Distributed Systems)
• CS557 (Advanced Networking)
• CS560/ECE 560 (Foundations of Fine-Grain Parallelism)
• CS570 (Advanced Computer Architecture)
• CS575 (Parallel Processing)

Group III (Software Engineering & Information Assurance):

• CS514 (Software Product and Process Evaluation)
• CS533 (Database Management Systems)
• CS556 (Computer Security)
• CS559 (Quantitative Security)
• CS567 (3D User Interfaces)
• CS580A9 (Perceptual Elements in Extended Reality)
• CS580B2 (Human and Social Factors of Software Engineering)
• CS580B3² (AI for Software Engineering)
• CS580B4 (Usable Formal Methods for Security/Privacy)
• CS580B6 (Vulnerability Management and Analysis)

SECTION 3.3: ANNOUNCING EXAMS

Timely announcements of public exams require informing the graduate advising staff at least two weeks in advance of the proposed exam or defense. The final draft of the document must also be provided to committee members at least two weeks before the exam.

It is the student’s responsibility to reach out to all committee members and set a date and time. Once this is done, students should schedule a room with the computer science department receptionist and provide the following information items to the graduate advisor, who will make the formal announcement:

• Student’s name:
• Date of exam:
• Time of exam:
• Location:
• Remote Meeting Link (if applicable):
• Title:
• Abstract:
• Advisor:
• Committee details:

¹The CSU catalog defines a regular course as one whose last two digits are strictly less than 82. Non-regular courses in the CS department include independent or group study, research seminar, internship, thesis and dissertation.

²CS580B3 (AI for Software Engineering) may be used as either a Group 1 or Group 3 course, but not both.

These sections cover the plan specific requirements of each degree type.

SECTION 4.1: MASTER OF COMPUTER SCIENCE (M.C.S.)

The Master of Computer Science (Plan C) is a professional program that includes advanced coursework to acquire knowledge in diverse areas such as but not limited to the study of algorithm design, artificial intelligence/machine learning, bioinformatics, computer security, cyber-physical systems, databases, distributed systems, graphics, human computer interaction, networking, programming languages, and software engineering. This degree prepares the student for a career in the Computer Science industry and education.

4.1.1: Plan Specific Requirements

This option requires no thesis or project, but more courses. In addition to the 24 credits of the core (review Section 3: Core Requirements for All Graduate Degrees), the M.C.S. requires 12 credits (3 courses) of additional CS 500 level coursework.

SECTION 4.2: MASTER OF SCIENCE (M.S.)

4.2.1: Plan B, Research Initiation (RI)

The Research Initiation option will not be available for students to pursue beginning Spring 2027. Students admitted prior to Spring 2027 may continue or choose the RI option.

Plan Specific Requirements

This option requires no project, but more courses, and an initiation to research by developing active and ongoing awareness of departmental research. This happens through the first semester CS501, and participation in activities like department colloquium seminars, thesis and dissertation defenses, poster sessions for students in the project option and CS793, and public exams of Ph.D. and M.S. (Plan A) students. The committee for such students is set up by default when they file their Program of Study.

Specifically, in addition to the 24 credits of the core (review Section 3: Core Requirements for All Graduate Degrees), the RI option requires the following 12 credits of additional coursework:

1. One (1) credit of CS501 taken in the student’s first semester.
2. Two additional regular graduate courses (8 credit hours) in the CS department (at the 500 or higher level). Note that CS793 is not a regular course.
3. Three (3) flexible credits that may be satisfied through any (500 level or higher) course in the CS department, including CS793. One (and only one) of the three credits may be either an additional semester of CS501 or CS787.

4.2.2: Plan B, Research Project

The Master of Science degree in Computer Science Plan B (Project) is a research-based option that includes advanced course work and research project instead of a formal thesis. Students conduct research under the supervision of an advisor and form a committee, and present a talk and a poster to communicate their research results. This degree prepares the student for a career in the Computer Science industry and education, or for further research as a doctoral student.

Plan Specific Requirements

In addition to the 24 credits of the core (review Section 3: Core Requirements for All Graduate Degrees), the Masters Plan B option requires the following 12 credits of additional coursework:

1. Two (2) credit hours of CS501 to be taken in the first two semesters.
2. One additional regular graduate course at the 500 or higher level (4 credit hours) in the CS department. Note that CS793 is not a regular course.
3. Six (6) credits of CS695 (Independent Study), supervised by the student’s project advisor. In consultation with the advisor, previously taken CS793, CS699, or CS799 may be used to satisfy part of this requirement.

Project Final Exam

Students complete a research project under the supervision of a faculty advisor, typically over two semesters, focusing on a problem in greater depth than in a standard course. During their final semester, students present their work in a public poster session—held each Fall and Spring approximately one week before the GS-24 (Report of Final Exam) form is due. This is often mid-semester and will serve as the final exam for graduation. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure their advisor and committee are invited and present. Failure to present a poster or failing the poster session will result in at least one additional semester where the student must try again. If the student fails a second time, the student, advisor, and graduate program director will meet to discuss next steps.

Posters must be 44×36 inches in portrait orientation and submitted as a PDF. A GS-40 (MS Plan B, non-thesis requirement) form is due after successfully presenting the poster. Distance students should coordinate with their advisor and committee to arrange a separate presentation session.

4.2.3: Plan A, Thesis

The Master of Science degree in Computer Science Plan A is a rigorous research-based option that includes advanced course work and a thesis. Advanced courses and research cover diverse areas such as but not limited to the study of algorithm design, artificial intelligence/machine learning, bioinformatics, computer security, cyber-physical systems, databases, distributed systems, graphics, human computer interaction, networking, programming languages, and software engineering. Students conduct research under the supervision of an advisor and form a committee. This degree prepares the student for a career in the Computer Science industry and education, or for further research as a doctoral student.

Plan Specific Requirements

In addition to the 24 credits of the core (review Section 3: Core Requirements for All Graduate Degrees), the Plan A masters require the following 13 credits of additional coursework:

1. Two (2)  credit hours of CS501 to be taken consecutively in the first two semesters.
2. Four (4) credits of CS793 (Research Seminar) supervised by the student’s thesis advisor, and taken for a letter grade (S/U audit grading is not allowed).
3. Three to seven (3-7) credit hours of CS699 (Thesis).  If fewer than 7 credits are taken, the remainder may be satisfied, in consultation with the advisor, by another 500 level (or higher) course within or outside the department.

Thesis Final Exam

The thesis is a written formal document, which addresses an identifiable problem within the student’s area of research in collaboration with a supervisor. It involves significant independent work, performed under the supervision of the advisor, and defended in front of the student’s advisory committee. Students must create an original research project that demonstrates mastery of the chosen subject; can be secondary data analysis or empirical study initiated by the student. They must write a formal thesis document and host a formal oral defense (presentation of research findings and Q&A session) before a faculty committee. Students need to present their advisor and committee with a preliminary draft of the thesis approximately 2 weeks before the defense. At the conclusion of the exam, a report is filled out, signed by the committee, and given to the student. The student should file a GS-30 (Thesis/Dissertation Submission) form before the posted deadline and within 48 hours of submitting their thesis to ProQuest/UMI.

Students are asked to schedule and defend their thesis at least one week prior to the GS-24, Report of Final Examination deadline for the semester in which they wish to graduate. If the student fails, they will need to reschedule a defense in the following semester which will prolong graduation. If the student fails the thesis defense twice, the student, advisor, and graduate program director will meet to discuss the next steps.

SECTION 5.1: Ph.D. PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

The Ph.D. program in Computer Science allows students to further their knowledge of computer science through advanced coursework and to conduct cutting-edge research in diverse areas such as algorithm design, artificial intelligence/machine learning, bioinformatics, computer security, cyber-physical systems, databases, distributed systems, high performance computing, human computer interaction, networking, quantum computing and software engineering. Students find their personal research passion and learn to become researchers who can independently and collaboratively initiate and lead cutting-edge research careers in academia, government, or industry.

5.1.1: Plan Specific Requirements

In addition to the requirements of the graduate school, all Ph.D. students must satisfy the core departmental requirements (review Section 3: Core Requirements for All Graduate Degrees): finding an advisor, forming a committee and filing a Program of Study in the first two semesters, and completing 24 credits of regular courses satisfying the core requirement (review Section 3: Core Requirements for All Graduate Degrees). The Ph.D. requires the following additional coursework:

1. Two (2) credit hours of CS501 to be taken in the first two semesters.
2. Minimum 3 credit hours (500 level or higher) outside the CS department (see common list and restrictions below).
3. At least 8 credits of CS793 taken under the supervision of two different faculty members.
4. The remaining thirty-five (35) credits may be CS799 Dissertation or a combination of CS799 and CS 500 level regular courses.

5.1.2: Common Outside CS Courses

Outside CS Course Requirement – Minimum 3 credits

• STAR 501 – Data Wrangling/Visualization for Researchers – (2)
• STAR 502 – Multivariate Analysis for Researchers – (2)
• STAR 511 – Design and Data Analysis for Researchers I – (4)
• STAR 513 – Regression Models for Researchers – (2)
• STAR 514 – Experimental Design/Analysis for Researchers – (2)
• STAR 531 – Generalized Regression Models for Researchers – (2)
• STAR 532 – Mixed Models for Researchers – (2)
• STAR 534 – Machine Learning for Researchers – (2)
• STAA 562 – Mathematical Statistics with Applications – (2)
• STAA 565 – Quantitative Reasoning – (1)
• STAA 577 – Statistical Learning and Data Mining – (2)
• STAA 578 – Machine Learning – (2)
• GRAD 510 – Fundamentals of High Performance Computing – (3)
• GRAD 511 – High Performance Computing and Visualization – (3)
• GRAD 530 – Introduction to Graduate Research – (1)
• GRAD 540 – Graduate Research Communication – (2)
• GRAD 544 – Ethical Conduct of Research – (1)
• GRAD 550 – STEM Communication – (1)
• GRAD 575/NSCI 575 – Ethical Issues in Big Data Research – (1)
• MATH 501 – Combinatorics I – (3)
• MATH 502 – Combinatorics II – (3)
• MATH 507 – Advanced Reasoning in Mathematics – (3)
• MATH 510 – Linear Programming and Network Flows – (3)
• MATH 517 – Introduction to Real Analysis – (3)
• MATH 519 – Complex Variables I – (3)
• MATH 520 – Nonlinear Programming – (3)
• MATH 530 – Mathematics for Scientists and Engineers – (3)
• MATH 532 – Mathematical Modeling of Large Data Sets – (3)
• MATH 535 – Foundations of Applied Mathematics – (3)
• MATH 560 – Linear Algebra – (3)
• MATH 569A/DSCI 569A – Linear Algebra for Data Science: Matrices and Vectors Spaces – (1)
• MATH 569B/DSCI 569B – Linear Algebra for Data Science: Geometric Techniques for Data Reduction – (1)
• MATH 569C/DSCI 569C – Linear Algebra for Data Science: Matrix Factorizations and Transformations – (1)
• MATH 569D/DSCI 569D – Linear Algebra for Data Science: Theoretical Foundations – (1)
• CIS 505 – Database Concepts – (1)
• CIS 563 – Information Assurance and Security – (3)
• CIS 570 – Business Intelligence – (3)
• CIS 575 – Applied Data Mining and Analytics in Business – (3)
• CIS 576 – Business Data Visualization – (3)
• CIS 577 – AI/ML Product Management – (3)
• CIS 578 – Machine Learning Development Operations – (3)
• CIS 579 – Agentic Enterprise – Building Smarter With AI – (3)
• STAA 551 – Regression Models and Applications – (2)
• STAA 552 – Generalized Regression Models – (2)
• STAA 553 – Experimental Design – (2)
• STAA 554 – Mixed Models – (2)
• STAA 555/STAT 555 – Statistical Consulting Skills – (1)
• STAA 556 – Statistical Consulting – (2)
• STAA 561 – Probability with Applications – (2)
• STAA 566 – Data Visualization Methods – (1)
• STAA 567 – Computational and Simulation Methods – (1)

Restrictions

• Courses that are cross listed in the CS department (such as ECE/CS528) cannot be counted toward the outside course requirement.
• CS793 should be taken for a letter grade (S/U audit grading is not allowed).
• Grades of B- or worse cannot be used to satisfy any of the requirements above.
• Other courses may be counted with GPC approval.

5.1.3: Additional Requirements (Milestones)

Research Exam

The research exam is internal to the department. It is not the preliminary examination which is sometimes referred to as the thesis/dissertation proposal exam in the Computer Science Department. The research exam is intended to be a strong predictor of success in Ph.D. research.

Students must have a Ph.D. advisor prior to taking the research exam. In consultation, the advisor and student develop a topic for the exam and prepare an initial bibliography of 5 papers within the topic area.

The research exam contains two parts: a written exam and an oral component. The written report is typically between 7,000 and 10,000 words long, excluding the bibliography. The written exam should be distributed to the committee at least two weeks prior to the oral exam. The student should find a common time to present the oral exam and submit announcement details approximately 2 weeks prior to the scheduled exam. The oral exam is typically 50 minutes after which; the student is asked questions by peers, committee members, and their advisor. At the conclusion of the oral exam, the students are notified whether they passed or failed and are provided with a written evaluation form to provide specific and detailed feedback. Upon completing the Research Exam, students should give the signed evaluation form to the Graduate Advisor and submit a GS-14, Report of Internal Examination.

A student who fails on the first attempt at the research exam may retake it. The student must file a new research exam Notification Form. The retaken examination may be with a new adviser, topic, and/or committee. For the retaken examination, the initial bibliography of 5 papers may not contain any papers that were included in the initial bibliography for the first attempt. The student must retake the exam no later than the semester following the failed attempt. A failed attempt in the Fall must be retaken in the following Spring; a failed attempt in the Spring must be retaken during the following Summer or Fall. A student who fails the second attempt or who exceeds the time limit for passing the exam must leave the Ph.D. program.

Preliminary Exam/Advancement to Candidacy/Proposal Defense

A preliminary examination shall be administered at least two terms before the final examination to determine whether the student is qualified to continue toward the doctorate. The usual procedure is to have written examinations in the field of specialization and supporting areas followed by an oral examination. To assure full information to all concerned (student, major professor, all committee members, department head, Graduate School), the intention to hold a doctoral Preliminary Examination is to be publicized two weeks in advance by the advisor. The student is responsible for obtaining the Report of Preliminary Examination (GS Form 16) from their RAMweb account and returning it to the Graduate School, appropriately completed, after the conclusion of the examination.

Providing the committee approves, a candidate who fails the preliminary examination may be reexamined once and, for the reexamination, may be required to complete further work. The reexamination must be held no later than 12 months after the first examination. The examination must not be held earlier than two months after the first examination, unless the student agrees to a shorter period. Failure to pass the second exam results in dismissal from the Graduate School.

Participation in oral examinations by the student and/or one or more members of the examining committee may be via electronic link so long as all are participating simultaneously and all committee members and the student have agreed to this in advance.³

Dissertation Defense

The dissertation defense must be held in accordance with the Graduate School deadlines. At least one month before the final examination, the advisor will inform the student and the committee members of the nature and scope of the examination. The student must notify the Department at least two weeks prior to the Defense to ensure that the Defense is publicly announced so that all interested faculty and graduate students may attend.

Candidates who fail their Defense of Dissertation may present themselves, with permission of the committee, for one additional reexamination not earlier than two months, nor later than twelve months, after the date of the failure. If a student fails twice, they will need to schedule a meeting with the advisor, graduate program director, and department chair to discuss next steps.

Regulations concerning the format and conduct of the final examination are contained in the Colorado State University Bulletin.

³https://catalog.colostate.edu/general-catalog/graduate-bulletin/graduate-study/doctoral-degree/

The department offers a number of non-regular (special courses) identified below. Not all non-regular courses count towards every degree program, so it’s important for the student to double check with their faculty or graduate advisor.

SECTION 6.1: CS501 (Introduction to Research Seminar)

In CS501, students develop the skills needed to effectively participate in graduate work (both orally and in writing) and learn how to successfully function in academic discourse communities.  It introduces students to research topics in Computer Science in general and ongoing research topics in the department in particular. It also imparts some basic research skills.  It also enables students to align their interests and identify a faculty mentor who will serve as their project/thesis/dissertation advisor.

Ph.D., M.S. Plan A (Thesis), and M.S. Plan B (Project) must take a total of 2 credits of CS501. CS501 should be taken in the students’ first two semesters. M.C.S students are exempt.

SECTION 6.2: CS793 (Research Seminar)

CS793 is a research seminar in which graduate students work one-on-one with faculty members to conduct research in specific areas of computer science. Students conduct independent research on a topic chosen in consultation with the instructing faculty member, learning research methods, and producing a research poster to be presented at a symposium at the end of the semester. All Plan A M.S. must take CS793 as part of their degree program (review Sections 4.1: M.S. Plan A (Thesis) and 5.1: Research Exam). All Ph.D. students must take it twice under the supervision of two different faculty members.

SECTION 6.3: CS787 (Internship)

CS787 is a one-credit internship course. International students seeking to gain work experience in the US, off campus, may register for CS787 to qualify for the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Program. The conditions for obtaining CPT permission are strict. The most common way to fulfill CPT conditions is to enroll in a credit-bearing course. The CPT process is initiated by the student who arranges with an employer to obtain a written offer of employment (describing the work that will be done). The student obtains a CPT form from the International Student Scholar Services office, and has the form completed by the graduate advisor.

CS787 may, under appropriate circumstances, be used to satisfy some of the degree requirements as follows:

• MS Plan B RI students may use, at most, one credit of CS787towards the “flexible credit” requirement.
• Other students may use, at most, one credit of CS787 instead of one of their research credits (CS695, CS699, or CS 799).

SECTION 6.4: CONRG001 (Continuous Registration)

The graduate school allows students to register for Continuous Registration (CR) as a special status, instead of credit-bearing courses for any semester. For more information, visit the Graduate School’s Policies and Procedures webpage.

Changing programs while being enrolled at CSU can be accomplished by completing a formal department application and the completion of the Graduate School form GS-7 Change of Program, which is available through their RamWeb account. The process is different for different program changes. Please contact the department for assistance.

SECTION 7.1: FROM ANOTHER GRADUATE DEPARTMENT AT CSU

Graduate students in other departments must complete the formal department application. They should make clear in their Statement of Purpose that they are applying from another graduate program within the University. Applicants to the Ph.D. program should have a faculty member willing to take them on as an M.S. or Ph.D. advisee and should follow the same process described in Section 7.2.

SECTION 7.2: WITHIN THE CS DEPARTMENT

7.2.1: From any Masters to the Ph.D.

Students wishing to change from a master’s program (M.C.S. or M.S.) to Ph.D. will need approval by the Graduate Recruiting Committee (GRC). Students must have a commitment by a CS faculty member to serve as a Ph.D. advisor. For students without a committed Ph.D. advisor, they should complete the formal department application.

The impact of initiating this change on student funding depends on the funding policies in effect in the department.

7.2.2: From the Ph.D. to any Masters

Doctoral students who wish to change to get a master’s along the way to their Ph.D. or who decide to leave the Ph.D. program and graduate with a master’s may file a GS-7. A change from Ph.D. to M.S. or M.C.S. will be approved automatically.  Ph.D. students should be aware that while classified as a master student, they will not be able to do any of the Ph.D. Exams (Research exam, preliminary, or dissertation defense).

If the Ph.D. student graduates with their M.S. and wishes to switch back into the Ph.D. program, so long as they have a Ph.D. advisor and are in continued good standing, they will need to file another GS7 towards the end of their final semester as a M.S. student.

The impact of initiating this change on student funding depends on the funding policies in effect in the department.

7.2.3: Among the Master’s Programs/Options

Changing between the M.S. and M.C.S. can be done by completing and filing a GS-7 form. Within the M.S., students may switch between the thesis and project plans, without filing a GS-7, as their interests evolve, if they complete all the requirements of the plan/option they finish with.

• A Plan A student switches to a Plan B (project) with the same advisor and takes an additional regular course (4 credits). Any credits of CS793 or CS699 if already taken can be used to satisfy the 6 research credits for the project.
• A Plan B (project) student changes to Plan A (thesis) option, by taking one less regular course (4 credits each) and instead taking CS793 (4 credits) with their research advisor. Any credits of CS695 that may have been taken can be used to satisfy the 7 research credits for thesis.
• A change from M.C.S. to project/thesis option requires advisor approval.

Students may petition to have any of the requirements in Sections 4 and 5 waived for cause. They should be aware that some degree requirements are university requirements, for example the total number of credits taken at CSU (24 credits minimum) and minimum grade point average (GPA) (3.0 minimum). Other requirements are department requirements, for example the research exam. Students should check with their advisor and/or the graduate adviser about any requirement they wish to waive, to learn the source of the requirement and how to petition to have it waived.

SECTION 8.1: PETITION TO WAIVE UNIVERSITY OR GRADUATE SCHOOL REQUIREMENTS

Petitions to waive university requirements must be made to the graduate school on behalf of the student by the department or the academic advisor. The department reserves the right to refuse to file a petition on a student’s behalf and will only file a petition if the petition is both just and likely to be accepted. This determination is made by the graduate program director in collaboration with the associate chair.

SECTION 8.2: PETITION TO WAIVE DEPARTMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Petitions to waive department requirements should be made by a student to the graduate program director or the graduate advisor. The petition should specify how the student has fulfilled the requirement through other channels. Students can download and complete a Request to Waive Departmental Requirements petition (MS Word document).

The petition will then be reviewed by the GPC, and the student will be notified via email of the committee’s decision within 6-8 weeks.

In addition to satisfying all the requirements of the graduate school, students must satisfy departmental expectations described here. Evaluation and feedback on a student’s progress are important to both the student and the department. This section describes satisfactory and timely progress for the purposes of this evaluation.

SECTION 9.1: EXPECTED PROGRESS (Ph.D.)

We expect a Ph.D. student to satisfy the expectations described here. They include performing supervised research under the tutelage of a faculty advisor and making concrete, identifiable progress towards the degree.

The department expects a Ph.D. student entering with a master’s degree, relevant to Computer Science, to complete the Ph.D. in 4 years. Without a master’s degree, the expectation is to finish the degree in 5 years, as described in the following numbered list, which also shows the deadlines for each of the milestones:

1. Submit a signed GS-6 form to the graduate school by the end of your second semester.
2. Actively work with an advisor and continue to make good progress as certified by the advisor.
3. Pass the Research Examination: 2 years if you entered with an M.S., 3 years without M.S.
4. Pass the Preliminary Examination: 3 years if you entered with an M.S., 4 years without an M.S.
5. Pass the Dissertation Defense Examination: 4 years if you entered with an M.S., 5 years without M.S.
6. Students supported on an assistantship (GTA or GRA); the student must be registered for a minimum of 1 credit (CR does not count) and must perform the duties of that position with due diligence as specified in their contract.

SECTION 9.2: EXPECTED PROGRESS (M.S.)

We expect all full-time master’s students to complete all the degree requirements in approximately four semesters. Satisfactory progress includes the following elements:

1. Register for a minimum of 9 credit hours per semester (Fall and Spring).⁴
2. Submit a signed GS-6 form to the graduate school by the end of the second semester.
3. Students supported on an assistantship (GTA or GRA) must be registered for a minimum of 1 credit (CR does not count) and must perform the duties of that position with due diligence as specified in their contract.
4. Submit a GS-25, Application for Graduation and be enrolled (credits or CR) during the intended semester of graduation. Please adhere to the graduate school deadlines.

9.2.1: M.S. Plan B – Research Initiation

In addition to the elements listed in section 9.2, M.S. RI students must complete the following tasks:

1. Submit the GS-24 Report of Final Examination a minimum of 48 hours prior to the GS-24 deadline.
2. File the GS-40 according to semester deadlines.

9.2.2: M.S. Plan B – Project

In addition to the elements listed in section 9.2, M.S. Project students must complete the following tasks:

1. Actively work with an advisor and continue to make good progress as certified by the advisor.
2. Present a public research poster during the MS Plan B Research Poster Session.
3. Submit the GS-24 Report of Final Examination within 48 hours of the poster presentation.
4. File the GS-40 according to semester deadlines.

9.2.3: M.S. Plan A – Thesis

In addition to the elements listed in section 9.2, M.S. Thesis students must complete the following tasks:

1. Actively work with an advisor and continue to make good progress as certified by the advisor.
2. Schedule and defend their Thesis in a timely manner as agreed upon with their advisor.
3. Submit the GS-24 Report of Final Examination within 48 hours of the thesis defense.
4. File the GS-30 and submit thesis to ProQuest/UMI according to semester deadlines.

SECTION 9.3: EXPECTED PROGRESS (PART-TIME)

Part-time students are evaluated annually. They should prepare the same progress report as that prepared by full-time students. The report should indicate that the student is part-time, and the student should chalk out an appropriate timeline for progress. Since part-time students are not funded on assistantships, their progress must simply satisfy the graduate school rules about timely progress. International students may have different enrollment requirements (Refer to SECTION 9.4: Other Requirements) and it is the student’s responsibility to check and maintain their status.

⁴For international students needing to drop below 9 credit hours, consult with International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and Office of International Programs (OIP) about requesting a Reduced Credit Load (RCL).

This section describes the departmental student evaluation process and potential repercussions of unsatisfactory evaluations.

SECTION 10.1: ASSISSTANTSHIPS: QUALITY OF WORK

If a student is funded on a research assistantship, the advisor and/or Principal Investigator (PI) of the grant funding them determines if the work is satisfactory.

If a student is funded as a GTA, they are evaluated at a minimum based on feedback from the instructor of the course and course evaluations from students if available or solicited. Other forms of signed student or faculty feedback may also be used. The graduate program director evaluates GTA performance with feedback from the graduate program committee.

SECTION 10.2: ANNUAL EVALUATION

The department faculty reviews the progress of all graduate students. Students who are not making satisfactory progress are discussed. If the faculty believe a student to be deficient, they may ask the student’s committee to consider certifying that the student is not making adequate progress.

Should a student’s advisor and committee decide to recommend dismissal from the Ph.D., M.S. or M.C.S. program, the student will be notified in writing. The student will then have the opportunity to appeal this decision with the advisor or the Provost/Academic Vice President (review the PDF document of CSU graduate assistantships terms and conditions) before a final decision is made and implemented. The student will be notified in writing of the final decision.

SECTION 10.3: ETHICAL AND PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

In addition to responsibilities enumerated here, students are expected to follow the Computer Science Department Academic Integrity Policy, the Colorado State University Academic Integrity Policy, and the Colorado State University Student Conduct Code. The department further advocates rights and responsibilities of conduct for all its members: faculty, staff and students, in accordance with the intent of the Code of Ethics of the Association of Computing Machinery.

SECTION 10.4: DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

Colorado State University is committed to providing an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based on race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or pregnancy. Colorado State University is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all Federal and Colorado State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non- discrimination and affirmative action.

SECTION 10.5: GRIEVANCE POLICY

The University encourages individuals to bring forward information and/or complaints about violations of state or federal law, University policy, rules, or regulations.  Retaliation against any individual who, in good faith, reports and/or participates in the investigation of alleged violations, or who assists others in making such a report, is strictly forbidden.  This policy does not protect an individual who knowingly files a report or provides information as part of an investigation that is false or is filed in bad faith. The University will take appropriate action, up to and including dismissal, against any employee, student, contractor, or affiliated person who violates this policy. Colorado State University prohibits retaliation as set forth in this or any other University policy, considers it a serious matter, and may impose disciplinary action against an employee or student for engaging in retaliation, in accordance with applicable policies and procedures (see References, below). Application of this policy does not supersede other university policies addressing retaliation but may be used as guidance.

Select graduate students at CSU are funded as part-time (20hrs/week) Graduate Assistants (GAs). During the rest of the time, students are expected to take courses, do research, and make progress towards their degrees. GAs receive a monthly stipend, and a tuition waiver. This section describes the duties, responsibilities, and selection process for these assistantships.

SECTION 11.1: GRADUATE TEACHING ASSISTANTSHIPS

Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs) support the teaching mission of the department by helping with a class. Expectations of GTAs include being on campus, prepared to work the week before courses start and attending the CS department GTA orientation where other expectations will be discussed. GTAs are expected to work on average 20 hours a week and do tasks assigned by the instructor for which they are a teaching assistant. Tasks include preparing/ grading assignments, attending lectures, preparing and giving recitations, and creating answer keys. Grading programming assignments require students to have/acquire the ability to do some scripting.

SECTION 11.2: GRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANTSHIPS

A Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) is when a student is paid to contribute to the research and deliverables for a research grant or project managed by a Principal Investigator (PI), which is often, but not necessarily, the student’s advisor. Since research is one of the primary expectations of most graduate degrees, full-time students funded as GRAs are also expected to spend additional time (beyond the 20 hours per week) taking and studying for courses, performing research and independent study to advance their own individual graduate education. PIs may have additional requirements, relevant to the specific grant (presentations to funding agencies, software releases, papers/presentations at conferences, mentoring and outreach activities, etc.)

SECTION 11.3: EXTERNAL FUNDING

If a student has external funding, then the admission letter will reference that funding. If this external funding is in the form of a fellowship, like the National Science Foundation (NSF) or U.S. Department of Energy (DoE) graduate fellowships, or the Fulbright program, then the advisor may augment the student’s monthly stipend with grant money so that it is on par with other students in the department. If external funding is lost while being a graduate student, the advisor may seek GRA funding or ask for the student to be placed in the GTA pool.

SECTION 11.4: GTA SELECTION

GTA awards are competitive, and few applicants are awarded one. Students admitted with an assistantship may expect to keep it for the duration of the commitment outlined in the offer letter provided they meet all department expectations for satisfactory and timely completion of their degree program. At the end of the funding commitment, students are eligible to apply for semester-by-semester GTAs. The department may award semester-by-semester awards to meritorious students based upon the availability of department needs and funds. GTA selection is made by the GTA Assignment Committee.

SECTION 11.5: RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS

At CSU, those Graduate Assistants who can do so (US citizens and permanent residents) are expected to acquire, whenever possible, Colorado state residency by the end of their first year at CSU. Starting in the second year, the tuition waivers provided to such students will only pay at in-state tuition rates. Keep in mind, in-state residency classification is based on Colorado law, not CSU policy. To learn more about Colorado residency requirements and how to petition for in-state tuition classification, please visit the CSU Office of Financial Aid. Students should follow the petition process described there to become CO residents for the purpose of assessing tuition in their first year.

SECTION 12.1: STUDENT REPRESENTATION AND GOVERNANCE

Student representation and governance is meant to give graduate students a collective voice in how the department and, more broadly, the university are run.

At the university level, the Graduate Student Council (GSC) advocates for CSU graduate and professional students within departments, the university, the state, and nationally. The GSC hosts social, networking and development programs at CSU to maintain a personal community for graduate and professional students during their tenure. For more information, visit the graduate school organizations web page.

As specified in the department code, the CS department has both standing and ad-hoc committees. Many contain graduate student representatives. These representatives serve one-year appointments. When the students are organized into an active Graduate Student Association (GSA), the GSA will elect the student representatives. Otherwise, committees shall seek nominations from the graduate student body (usually by email) and select a representative from among the nominated students.

The standing committees that include a graduate student representative are the graduate program committee and the graduate recruiting committee. Note that the graduate representative on the graduate recruiting committee must be dismissed when specific applications are discussed, to maintain the privacy of applicants.