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Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science
Our Doctoral program is designed to cultivate the next generation of scholars and innovators, ready to contribute groundbreaking research in both academic and industry settings. Our commitment is to independent research, leading to a dissertation that meets the rigorous standards of publishability in recognized journals.
Structured to support your development as a leading researcher, our program emphasizes a curriculum and seminar work that directly supports the quality and success of your thesis work. With a focus on fostering a deep understanding of computer science, combined with the flexibility to explore your specific research interests, our Ph.D. program offers a comprehensive and challenging environment. Prepare to push the boundaries of knowledge and technology, guided by our distinguished faculty and supported by a vibrant academic community.
Degree Requirements
Doctoral students in Computer Science must pass a Qualifying Exam within three years, focusing on their dissertation area, with a second chance provided for any failed sections. They're required to complete 48 credit hours—24 in advanced coursework and 24 in dissertation research, including seminars, approved courses, and electives, plus coursework from outside computer science.
A Dissertation Committee of five faculty members, including at least one from outside the program, oversees the student's research. Post-qualifying exam, students propose and then defend their research in a Preliminary Examination. Failure to pass this twice results in dismissal from the program.
Upon passing the Preliminary Exam and completing coursework, students officially become Ph.D. candidates, embarking on dissertation research. The dissertation must be original, meet high standards, and lead to at least two peer-reviewed publications, with the student as the primary author on one.
The final stage is a dissertation defense, approved by the majority of the Dissertation Committee. Candidates must organize their defense logistics through the School of Computing, adhering to Graduate School guidelines for degree completion.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Ph.D. program is highly selective.
To be admitted to a Ph.D. program, all applicants must meet Graduate School requirements, as well as computer science program requirements. Students are considered for admission on a rolling admission basis, and priority will be given to the applications which are received and fully completed by December 31.
Program Requirements
Subject to meeting the admission requirements of the Graduate School, admission requirements for the Ph.D. in computer science consist of:
- A master's degree in computer science or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.25/4.0.
- A copy of your GRE score report must be submitted.
- In exceptional cases, high achieving students with only bachelor degrees will be admitted to the program. Each student, in addition to the Ph.D. program course requirements, must complete at least 15 semester hours of approved computer science courses including CS 401, CS 420, CS 455, and two 500-level lecture courses, with a minimum accumulated GPA of 3.25/4.0 in those courses. If a specific course, or its equivalent, is already part of the student's academic background, an alternate course will be substituted.
Teaching and Research Assistantships
Many qualified graduate students in Computer Science receive financial support in the form of teaching or research assistantships. Appointments are normally made on a half-time basis, committing the student to 20 hours of work per week. The current stipend associated with such assistantships is stated on the graduate school website various appointment types. In addition, tuition fees are waived. Ordinarily, a student whose academic progress and performance of duties have been satisfactory is eligible for reappointment. Students who hold an assistantship normally take 9 credit hours per semester
Fellowships
In addition to assistantships, a limited number of graduate fellowships are available to academically superior students. Graduate fellowships provide a stipend, along with a tuition waiver. No duties are required of graduate students holding fellowships.
Beyond Assistantships and Fellowships
While our assistantships and fellowships are highly sought after, there are more avenues to explore to ease your financial burdon. We regularly provide the latest information about available scholarships, grants, and on-campus employment opportunities.
We're proud to offer financial assistance that acknowledges and supports the diversity of our student body. Our programs are designed to be accessible to students from various backgrounds and circumstances, reflecting our commitment to inclusive excellence in education.
Contact Information
Khaled Ahmed
Graduate Program Director
Engineering A307C
1230 Lincoln Dr.
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-6048
kahmed@cs.siu.edu
Pamela Wilkins
Graduate Progam Assistant
Engineering A319
1230 Lincoln Drive
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-6042
gradinfo@cs.siu.edu
