PhD in Computer Science
Immerse yourself in machine learning and AI, human-centered computing, robotics, — or any area of computer science that intrigues you. Develop your research, teaching, and leadership skills. And work with the brightest minds in the field to advance computing for the common good.
UMass Amherst’s PhD in computer science is designed to prepare you for teaching, research and leadership positions. Our program ranks among the top 25 in the nation.
Interdisciplinary research, world-renowned scholars, and our collaborative spirit attract top students and faculty. We also partner with industry-leading technology companies to conduct groundbreaking research. As a PhD student at CICS, you'll find the community and resources you need to pursue your passion and use computing to take on the world's toughest challenges
PhD in computer science course requirements:
- Six core courses in systems, AI and theory (18 credits)
- Portfolio/comprehensive exam
- Dissertation research (18 credits)
- Doctoral thesis proposal and defense
Featured classes
This course introduces graduate and undergraduate students to concepts, practices, and tools for conducting effective research. Students will learn basic methods for activities such as reading technical papers and selecting research topics.
Principles underlying the design and analysis of efficient algorithms. Topics to be covered include: divide-and-conquer algorithms, graph algorithms, matroids and greedy algorithms, randomized algorithms, NP-completeness, and approximation algorithms
Intelligent visual computing is an emerging new field that seeks to combine modern trends in machine learning, computer graphics, and computer vision to intelligently process, analyze, and synthesize 2D/3D visual data.
In the spotlight
“Because of the flexibility that CICS offers, I’ve been able to chart my own path. I conduct research on the privacy implications in devices that use machine learning. UMass has such a friendly and collaborative nature with people of all different backgrounds that it really does feel like home."
Application information & deadlines
Fall Admission
Application deadline