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Computer science is a popular major, especially among graduate students. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the number of graduate students enrolled in computer science programs more than doubled between 2007 and 2019, from 48,000 to 101,000.
A Ph.D. in computer science can prepare you for a variety of high-paying tech jobs — and you can even earn the degree online. Discover the ins and outs of getting an online Ph.D. in computer science and what you can do with this valuable degree.
Reasons to Get an Online Ph.D. in Computer Science
- You can advance the computer science field by researching or teaching about complex computer science concepts.
- The flexibility of an online Ph.D. in computer science means you can continue working full time while studying.
- This advanced degree can help you network and build connections with other computer science professionals.
- A Ph.D. demonstrates your credibility and commitment to furthering the field to your peers and future employers.
- A computer science Ph.D. can help you land a role that pays more for your expertise.
Top Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Programs
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These rankings include
#1 Best Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Programs
Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Mississippi State University supports three online doctoral programs from its main campus in Mississippi State, Mississippi. Doctoral students in the doctor of philosophy in computer science program complete research, coursework, and comprehensive exams, preparing them for the demands of a career. Students benefit from rigorous coursework, comprehensive exams, and research, gaining relevant skills.
The program's flexibility enables candidates to learn at their own pace or work full time while pursuing study. Doctoral candidates can expect to complete their studies in 4-6 years. The program requires that candidates complete a dissertation and contribute original research to the field.
Mississippi State University at a Glance:
Location: Mississippi State, Mississippi
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 54%
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,800
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,840
Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 95%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,316
Average Price After Aid: $16,471
#2 Best Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Programs
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Professionals seeking advanced remote study in computer science should consider Nova Southeastern University's Ph.D. in computer science. The program equips learners with advanced skills and industry knowledge, applicable to careers in academia, research, and management. Typically, a doctorate is the field's highest education level attainable.
Based on their scheduling needs, online doctoral candidates can pursue full-time or part-time study. The average time from enrollment to degree completion is 4-6 years. The program requires that candidates complete a dissertation and contribute original research to the field.
Nova Southeastern University at a Glance:
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 80%
Graduate Tuition In State: $19,665
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,665
Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 100%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
#3 Best Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Programs
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of South Carolina-Columbia supports 10 online doctoral programs from its main campus in Columbia, South Carolina. The Ph.D. in computer science program equips learners with transferrable knowledge and skills suitable for positions in academia, research, and management. Upon graduation, candidates possess the highest level of education available in the computer science field.
Working professionals benefit from the program's flexible online format. Candidates can expect to earn their degree in 4-6 years, depending on enrollment status. Degree-holders contribute original research to the computer science field, especially through their dissertation.
University of South Carolina-Columbia at a Glance:
Location: Columbia, South Carolina
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 69%
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,737
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,760
Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 95%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,282
Average Price After Aid: $21,787
#4 Best Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Programs
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Southern California's online Ph.D. in computer science offers students a world-class education, preparing them for an advanced career in the field. Typically, doctoral candidates are trained for careers in academia, research, and management. Upon graduation, candidates possess the field's highest level of education.
The online modality allows doctoral candidates flexibility in learning. Candidates can complete their degree in 4-6 years, with the option for extended study with further funding. Enrollees complete a dissertation by the end of their studies, contributing original research to their field.
University of Southern California at a Glance:
Location: Los Angeles, California
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 11%
Graduate Tuition In State: $46,272
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $46,272
Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 69%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
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Why Accreditation Matters for a Ph.D. in Computer Science
Accreditation holds a lot of weight in higher education. An accredited college or program holds accountability and credibility for its educational offerings. In the U.S., recognized accrediting agencies evaluate institutions based on quality standards.
Schools can earn institutional accreditation from a national or regional accrediting agency. All legitimate accreditors will be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and/or the Department of Education.
You should also check for programmatic accreditation when researching computer science Ph.D. programs. The best Ph.D. in computer science degrees are usually accredited by ABET.
Did You Know?
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the top 10% of earners in computer and information research science made more than $208,000 in May 2021. -
The National Science Foundation lists four computer science pillars you can specialize in, like information and intelligent systems. -
The BLS projects that computer and IT jobs will grow by 15% between 2021 and 2031.
Computer Science Ph.D. Admission Requirements
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Completed application form -
Minimum GPA, often at least a 3.5 -
Bachelor's degree, usually in computer science or a related field -
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2-3 letters of recommendation -
Statement of purpose -
Resume or CV
What Classes Do You Take in an Online Ph.D. in Computer Science Program?
Computer science courses translate well to an online format due to their technical nature. As a result, many computer science Ph.D. programs take place entirely online.
The classes you take as part of your program will help you develop key soft skills like strategic problem-solving and logical analysis, in addition to hard skills like computer programming. You'll also learn how to communicate research findings to diverse audiences.
Here are some sample courses you may take for an online doctorate in computer science:
- Research methods in computer science
- Accessibility through cloud computing
- Modern cybersecurity threats
- Programming languages and optimization
- Machine learning and language processing
- Quantum information theory
What Can You Do With a Ph.D. in Computer Science?
A Ph.D. in computer science can raise your salary potential and qualify you for more leadership opportunities in tech. Many computer science Ph.D.-holders 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. Note that jobs in research and business boast some of the highest salaries for computer science graduates.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2021) | Job Growth Rate (2021-2031) |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | $131,490 | 21% |
| Computer Network Architects | $120,520 | 4% |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $99,270 | 9% |
| Computer Programmers | $93,000 | -10% |
| Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $77,910 | 7% |
Source: BLS
Computer Science Resources
American Society for Engineering Education
ASEE is a membership-based nonprofit that works to promote technology education.
Association for Women in Computing
Founded in 1978, AWC is a professional organization geared toward women working in technology. The group offers networking opportunities and local chapters throughout the U.S.
Computing Research Association
A membership-based organization, CRA is active in computer science departments at over 200 U.S. colleges.
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Science Ph.D. Programs
Whether it's worth getting a Ph.D. in computer science will depend on factors like your budget, your goals, and what you want your daily life to look like.
If you want to pursue a tech career that provides you with opportunities to contribute new ideas and research, this degree may be a good fit. But you might opt for a different path if you'd rather work in a tech job with fewer responsibilities and more work-life balance for less pay.
How difficult a computer science Ph.D. program is will depend on the program, your experience, and your preexisting knowledge and skill set.
To get a feel for how much mental energy and time this degree takes, talk to someone who completed the program you're interested in doing. Ask whether it's possible to work while taking courses and still maintain a healthy work-school-life balance.
Expect to spend 4-5 years on a computer science Ph.D. This estimate includes the time it takes to write a dissertation. You might consider an accelerated program if you want to earn your doctorate faster.
Most computer science Ph.D. programs don't cover computer science foundations. For this reason, you'll likely need a master's in computer science or a related field. Alternatively, some programs may allow you to take prerequisite courses and then enroll.
Thousands of people have a Ph.D. in computer science. The National Science Foundation's Survey of Earned Doctorates found that 2,361 people earned a doctorate in computer and information science in 2021 alone.
All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the ASO Rankings Team.