Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Programs
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Computer science is the study of computers and computation. It incorporates mathematical models, data analysis, software engineering, and information security. Careers in this field include user design, software development, database administration, and systems analysis. Most of these careers require a bachelor’s degree or higher to get started.
For experienced professionals, a Ph.D. in computer science can provide a pathway to chief technology officer and computer science professor careers. Earning your doctorate online means you can study from home while maintaining your professional and personal responsibilities.
What Is a Ph.D. in Computer Science?
A Ph.D. in computer science is the highest degree in the field, and it can prepare you to pursue roles in leadership, research, and academia. In this program, you take advanced computer science coursework and may specialize in a subfield such as cybersecurity. A Ph.D. also includes a series of research courses.
This program usually requires 72-90 credits beyond a bachelor’s degree or 60 credits more than a master’s degree. Whether on campus or online, a Ph.D. in computer science concludes with a dissertation, which is an original research project. This degree is available in online, hybrid, and residential formats, though in-person programs are most common.
Why Get an Online Ph.D. in Computer Science?
- Advance the field by researching complex computer science concepts
- Continue working full time while studying
- Network and build connections with other computer science professionals
- Demonstrate your credibility and commitment to your peers and prospective employers
- Help you land a role that pays more for your expertise
Other Types of Computer Science Doctorates
Doctor of Information Technology: A DIT emphasizes advanced practices in applied technology leadership. This 3-4 year degree requires a technology background — often a master’s degree in information technology and three years of experience in the field. The program may conclude with an applied research course sequence and project in place of a dissertation.
Doctor of Computer Science: A DCS blends theories, applications, and research in computer science. This 3-5 year degree may include specialization options such as big data analytics or cybersecurity and information assurance. DCS students research and write on industry-relevant trends as part of their final projects.
Doctor of Science: Like a Ph.D., a D.Sc. is a research-oriented doctorate but applies exclusively to a STEM field. A D.Sc. in computer science can focus on computer science theory or applied research. This program requires about 60 post-master’s credits.
Doctor of Engineering: A D.Eng., like a Ph.D. in computer engineering, is a research-oriented degree. Instead of emphasizing computer science theory, however, this degree focuses on solving real-world computer engineering problems. A D.Eng. may require 2-4 years beyond the master’s degree.
Doctor of Education: An Ed.D. is a three-year doctorate focused on teaching, school administration, or applied education research. An Ed.D. in computer science can help current K-12 teachers expand their knowledge of computer science education but does not usually prepare students for initial teaching licensure.
Compare Online Doctoral Programs in Computer Science
Use the following table to find and compare schools that offer online or hybrid doctoral programs in computer science. All schools listed are nonprofit, institutionally accredited, and in the United States.
| School | Public or Private? | Degree Offered | Total Credits | Cost per Credit | Dissertation Required? | In-Person Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capitol Technology University | Private | Ph.D. | 60 | $950 | Yes | No |
| Clarkson University | Private | Ph.D. | 90 | $1,500 | Yes | Yes |
| City University of Seattle | Private | DIT | 90 | $795 | Yes | Yes |
| Florida Atlantic University | Public | Ph.D. | 42-72 | $800 | Yes | No |
| Mississippi State University | Public | Ph.D. | 55 | $537 | Yes | No |
| Missouri University of Science and Technology | Public | Ph.D. | N/A | $1,200 | Yes | No |
| National University | Private< | Ph.D. | 60 | $920 | Yes | No |
| Nova Southeastern University | Private | Ph.D. | 66 | $979 – $1,428 | Yes | Yes |
| University of Arkansas at Little Rock | Public | Ph.D. | 75 | $396 | Yes | Yes |
| University of North Dakota | Public | Ph.D. | 60-90 | $818 (out-of-state) or $546 (in-state) | Yes | No |
| University of Rhode Island | Public | Ph.D. | 64 | $887 (in-state) or $1,727 (out-of-state) | Yes | Yes |
| University of South Carolina | Public | Ph.D. | 60 | $573 (in-state) or $1,240 (out-of-state) | Yes | Yes |
| Wright State University | Public | Ph.D. | 60-90 | $680 (in-state) or $1,145 (out-of-state) | Yes | Yes |
Doctoral Coursework in Computer Science
An online Ph.D. in computer science typically includes a mix of traditional coursework, a research course sequence, and a final research project (usually a dissertation). A dissertation often comprises 12-18 credits, must make an original contribution to the field, and requires approval from faculty.
A professional or practice-based program may require you to investigate an applied research problem, whereas a traditional program may emphasize computer science theory. Some programs offer concentration options, which allow you to focus your coursework in a particular subdiscipline of computer science.
Computer science courses may include:
- Theory of computation
- Computer systems architecture
- Simulation of biology
- Deep learning
- Artificial intelligence
Possible concentrations may include:
- Computational science and engineering
- Database systems
- Human-computer interaction
- Information security
- Machine learning
Did You Know…
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the top 10% of computer and information research scientists earn over $233,110.
The BLS projects that computer and IT jobs will grow by 14% from 2022-2032.
Why Accreditation Matters for Computer Science Ph.D. Programs
In the U.S., an accredited school has undergone a rigorous review process with a private organization to ensure that it meets minimum standards of governance, financial stability, and academic quality. Accreditation occurs at the institutional and programmatic levels.
Institutional accreditation signals that a third-party company has approved the entire college or university. Institutionally accredited schools can offer access to financial aid, and their degrees are recognized by employers worldwide. Most institutional accreditors are regional bodies, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Programmatic accreditors only approve individual departments or programs within schools. ABET is the main programmatic accreditor for computer science, but this organization does not accredit doctoral programs. However, the presence of ABET-accredited bachelor’s programs could be an important quality indicator when comparing doctoral programs.
Computer Science Ph.D. Admission Requirements
Completed application form
Bachelor’s in computer science or a related field from an accredited school
Minimum GPA of 3.0-3.5
GRE scores
2-3 letters of recommendation
Statement of purpose
Resume or CV
What Can You Do With a Ph.D. in Computer Science?
An online Ph.D. in computer science can raise your salary potential and qualify you for more leadership opportunities in tech. Many professionals with computer science Ph.D. degrees make six figures working as computer scientists, computer systems analysts, and computer network architects.
The table below highlights some career paths you can follow with this degree. Research and business jobs can offer some of the highest salaries for computer science graduates.
| Job | Median Salary (2023) | Job Growth Rate (2022-32) |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | $145,080 | +23% |
| Computer Network Architects | $129,840 | +4% |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $103,800 | +10% |
| Computer Programmers | $99,700 | -11% |
| Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $84,380 | +8% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Computer Science Ph.D. Programs
How much does a doctorate in computer science cost?
The National Center for Education Statistics reports that a research doctorate in math, engineering, or computer science costs an average of $25,260 in annual tuition. A professional doctorate in these fields costs an average of $18,342 per year. Some in-person doctorates offer research or teaching assistantships that can cover up to 100% of your tuition costs, along with a living stipend.
Do you need a master’s to get a Ph.D. in computer science?
Some schools require you to hold a master’s degree to apply for their Ph.D. in computer science, but other programs accept applicants with bachelor’s degrees in the field. A few programs award master’s degrees as part of the pathway to Ph.D. degrees.
Is a computer science Ph.D. hard?
The journey to any Ph.D. is long and rigorous, and as a STEM field, computer science can present many challenging courses and concepts. Consequently, a computer science Ph.D. is an especially tough degree for many students to earn. However, with perseverance and preparation, many people complete their computer science doctorates each year.
How fast can you get a Ph.D. in computer science?
An on-campus or online Ph.D. in computer science typically requires 72-90 credits total or 60 credits for a student who holds a master’s degree in the field. Depending on your academic preparation and whether you study part time or full time, your degree may take 3-5 years. Most Ph.D. programs only permit students to enroll for seven years.
Is a Ph.D. in computer science worth it?
As of July 2024, Payscale reported that people with Ph.D. in computer science degrees earned an average salary of $139,000 per year. Senior data scientists, software engineers, and chief data scientists with doctorates may earn more. Only you can determine if these roles and salaries justify the time, energy, and expense required to earn a Ph.D.
Page last reviewed June 18, 2024.
