Computer Science, Ph.D

Admission

Outstanding students with a Master’s degree in a field other than Computer Science will be counselled about the breadth and depth of the comprehensive examination before proceeding with the application. Each student’s background will be assessed and his/her program of study designed to ensure appropriate depth and breadth in Computer Science.

Students holding a Bachelor’s degree should enrol at the Master’s level. Excellent students may be transferred to the Ph.D. program prior to completing their Master’s thesis.

Requirements for the Ph.D. Degrees in Computer Science and Software Engineering

Students must successfully complete the following requirements:

1. Equivalent of 4 one-term (half course) graduate courses in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or relevant areas of Engineering or Mathematics. At most two courses can be from outside the department, all must be at the 700-level. More than two courses outside the department requires approval of the department. Students may be required to take more courses as judged by the supervisory committee.
2. Pass a two-part Comprehensive Examination. Part I tests breadth of knowledge and Part II is a defense of a thesis proposal.
3. Prepare and successfully defend a thesis.