Researchers from all fields use computational models to analyze massive amounts of data. There’s a growing need for computer scientists who can collaborate with other domains and also research ways to improve the networks, the operating systems, and the multitude of devices that are integrated into our daily lives.
Our PhD program prepares you for a career in research and/or teaching by providing the necessary course work and collaborative environment for both supervised and independent research. Our students research mobile apps to help improve the science of learning, build operating systems for high-performance computers, address security and privacy, improve computer performance, and more.
The GRE is optional for admission to this program.
At A Glance
Credits: 72 Duration: 5+ years to complete Format: On campus
Next Start Date: August 24
| Application Deadlines | ||
|---|---|---|
| Term | Domestic Students | International Students |
| Fall | January 15 | January 15 |
| Spring | June 15 | June 15 |
Admissions Requirements
General guidelines for applying to a graduate program at the University of Pittsburgh should be reviewed prior to submitting an application for admission. These guidelines are available on the University’s Application for Admission Catalog page.
All applicants will be judged on their own merits. Applicants for master’s study must have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a scholastic average of B (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) or better; the doctoral programs have more stringent requirements. For those who have been in the workforce, admission will be based upon academic achievement, area of study, career orientation and work experience.
- PhD in CS Admissions Requirements
Students may be admitted to the PhD program even if they do not have an MS degree. Moreover, students admitted to the MS program are eligible to complete the requirements for the PhD degree, and if they wish to transfer to the PhD program, they must apply to the admissions committee, which will make its decision based on the student’s performance in the MS program and on faculty recommendations.
The department is open to applications from exceptional students transitioning to graduate study in Computer Science from other undergraduate fields. Transitional students with demonstrated computing aptitude, as evidenced by outstanding grades in at least 4 of the required computer science courses noted below, may be considered for admission to the graduate program. Completed minimally a selection of courses in the following topical areas (the corresponding Pitt course numbers are indicated):
In Computer Science, one course in each of:
- Intermediate Programming (CMPINF 0401)
- Discrete Structures (CS 0441)
- Information/Data Structures (CS 0445)
- Computer Organization/Assembly Language (CS 0447)
- Theory (CS 1510 or CS 1511)
- Languages (CS 1520 or CS 1621)
- Systems (CS 1550 or CS 1651)
In Mathematics, the following:
- The two-course calculus sequence (MATH 0220, MATH 0230)
- A course in linear algebra (MATH 1180 or MATH 0280)
- A course in probability and statistics, requiring calculus as a prerequisite (STAT 1151, STAT 1152)
Coursework
This degree requires 72 credits of formal coursework, independent study, directed study, and/or dissertation research. View full PhD in Computer Science degree requirements in the Pitt Course Catalog.