The Department of Computer Science offers a program of study leading to the Doctor of Philosophy in computer science.
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
Information and program requirements for all graduate degrees can be found in the Graduate Student Manual (GSM). This is a good starting point for anyone looking for a graduate program in the Computer Science Department. The GSM was recently updated, and students starting in 2020 will follow the new requirements. Current students have the option of following either the earlier or the new requirements.
(2) credits of CS 501* – Introduction to Computer Science Research taken in the first two semesters.
*CS 501 replaced CS 692. Students who have taken CS 692 will be able to use that credit towards the CS 501 requirements.
(24) Total credits spanning the breadth of Computer Science.
- (4) credits from Group 1, AI & Theory
- (4) credits from Group 2, Systems
- (4) credits from Group 3, Software Engineering & Information Assurance
- (4) credits of CS 500 level, regular coursework*
- (8) credits of CS 400-500 level, regular coursework*
*Courses can be from any group or be courses not included in the groups. Experimental 400-500 level qualify to count. Research credits and courses above 600 level do not count.
(8) Total credits of CS 793 – Research Seminar with 2 different advisors
It is expected that the remaining credits are CS 799 Dissertation with your advisor however, your advisor may recommend different courses. Please consult with your faculty advisor.
(3) credits of 500 level or higher courses outside of Computer Science.*
*Courses cross-listed with CS do not count for this requirement.
- (2) CS 501
- (24) CS Core/Breadth
- (8) CS 793
- (3) Outside CS 500+
- (35) CS 799 Dissertation*
Total = 72 credits minimum
*Please consult faculty advisor on dissertation credits.
Additional Requirements (Milestones):
- Research Exam: Each Ph.D. student is required to take the written and oral Research Examination. This examination tests the student on critical thinking skills, background knowledge, and research synthesis.
- Preliminary Exam/Advancement to Candidacy/Proposal Defense: Each Ph.D. student is required to take the oral Preliminary Examination. This exam centers on, but is not limited to, the student’s proposal for dissertation research. Passing this examination admits the student to Ph.D. candidacy.
- Dissertation and Defense: The final examination of a Ph.D. candidate is the defense of the dissertation and related subject areas. Regulations concerning the format and conduct of the final examination are contained in the Colorado State University Graduate Bulletin.
Students with a Masters in Computer Science from an accredited college or University can count up to 30 credits towards the PhD. If the degree is in an unrelated field, students will need to talk with their faculty advisor about best steps.
Students with a Masters in Computer Science from CSU can count all credits listed on their previous GS6.
PhD students with a Masters degree can petition the Graduate Program Committee (GPC) to waive the following categories. A petition for each category you wish to waive, is required.
- Group 1, AI & Theory
- Group 2, Systems
- Group 3, Software Engineering & Information Assurance
- Outside CS 500+ level
Please find the petition to waive here.
Yes, students can earn a Masters from CSU in Computer Science on their way to completing the PhD. Many of the requirements are the same. Please consult your faculty advisor and the graduate advisor to get information about the process.
RESEARCH
Possible areas of interest are detailed on our Research Page.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS & ADMISSION PROCEDURES
The doctoral program is available to students who have compiled outstanding academic records in completing requirements for a Bachelor of Science or a Master of Science degree in computer science. Students with degrees in related disciplines may be admitted after demonstrating strong capabilities to do graduate work in computer science.
Once the Department receives a complete application, the admissions committee reviews the application and promptly notifies the applicant of their decision.
Students may be admitted for fall or spring semesters.
For more information, prospective students can email CompSci_GradProspective@colostate.edu. Current students should contact their faculty advisor.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT & FEES
The department offers opportunities for financial support.
