Graduate admissions overview
Available degrees
- Ph.D. in Computer Science: This is a research degree that culminates in a unique dissertation that demonstrates original and creative research. Application instructions can be found here.
- M.S. in Computer Science: The department offers three types of M.S. degrees: (i) Plan A with a research thesis, (ii) Plan B with an independent project, and (iii) Plan C that only requires coursework-based projects. Application instructions can be found here.
- M.C.S. (Masters of Computer Science): This is a coursework-only degree designed to meet the needs of working professionals. Application instructions can be found here.
- M.S. in Software Engineering: This degree focuses on working professionals that want to get a deeper understanding of software engineering. This is a coursework-only Plan C.
In addition, the department’s faculty members play a significant role in two other graduate degree programs, which are:
*Please note that the respective programs handle admissions in these programs.
Program statistics admission FAQ
The graduate programs in the Computer Science and Engineering department are highly competitive. We receive 1600+ applications each year for approximately 140 total seats in the Ph.D. and M.S. programs. We are only able to admit the most qualified applicants who advance our mission of innovative research.
Statistics for applicants can be found here:
- Computer Science (Effective September 2020, we do not require or accept GRE scores as part of the application process. While you will see a section in the application to enter GRE test scores and upload an unofficial score sheet, please do not enter this information or send your official GRE test scores for our program. GRE test scores that are submitted as part of an application for our Computer Science MS and PhD programs will not be reviewed.)
- Data Science
Funding availability for Ph.D. students
We guarantee funding to all of our Computer Science Ph.D. admits from day one. As long as students are making progress in their academic and research efforts, they will continue to have funding throughout their doctoral experience. Students with funding typically have their tuition and almost all of their health insurance costs covered. They also receive a stipend paid them to help cover their living expenses. Most CS&E graduate students are eligible for financial support, including teaching assistantships (TA), research assistantships (RA), and graduate fellowships.