Computer Science (Ph.D.)

Pursue an academic or industrial research career through this doctoral program. Coursework revolves around seven core groups: theory of computation, systems, programming languages, networks and security, databases, software engineering, and computational intelligence. The amount of coursework is dependent on previous degrees earned. Passing a written and oral qualifying exam, comprehensive exam, and defending a thesis is expected. A thesis research problem must be presented and defended to a committee of faculty at the comprehensive exam. Learn more about our research areas. Located just minutes from downtown Chicago, Illinois Tech’s Mies Campus offers easy access to the city’s resources. A growing number of tech companies are calling Chicago home. The city government is extremely open with its data, allowing and encouraging unusual access for unique research opportunities. Coursework explores seven core groups: theory of computation, systems, programming languages, networks and security, databases, software engineering, and computational intelligence. Ph.D. candidates in computer science are expected to demonstrate mastery in these areas and to make an original contribution to research.

The minimum standards for admission to the computer science Ph.D. program are:Master’s program, certificate, and non-degree applicants with bachelor’s degrees outside of computer science may be required to complete one or more of the following courses. Mastery of the material they cover is considered necessary for graduate-level study and is required for completion of a degree program or certificate. In addition, applicants who have not had at least one course in calculus will be required to take one. Grades of “B” or better are required in all these courses. Credit hours from them cannot be applied toward a degree or certificate.CS 201 Accelerated Introduction to Computer Science, CS 401 Introduction to Advanced Studies I, CS 402 Introduction to Advanced Studies IIPh.D.: 304 (quantitative PLUS verbal), 3.5 (analytical writing) for applicants with a master’s degree in or related to computer science; 310 (quantitative PLUS verbal), 4.0 (analytical writing) for applicants with a bachelor’s degree in computer science. In addition, the GRE quantitative score must be at least 70th percentile. Three letters of recommendation are required by the Department of Computer Science.A personal statement.Good academic standing is required for applicants who are currently pursuing a graduate degree at another university or in another department at Illinois Tech. Good academic standing should be confirmed by submitting a transcript for the final semester from the current university.