As employers in both the public and private sectors seek out holders of doctorate degrees in computer science to develop new products and services, the demand for computer and information technology professionals is predicted to grow much faster than average for all occupations. To meet this need, colleges and universities are increasing the availability of blended and online programs in computer science so that students can earn an advanced degree on a flexible schedule. With these modern options, pursuing a doctorate in computer science may be easier than ever.
But which doctorate is right for me? Is an online PhD in computer science worth the cost? Can I earn an online doctorate part-time?
The path to an online doctorate in computer science can be difficult to navigate and there are many questions that students and professionals have. We understand this, and here we provide comprehensive resources to help you find the best program for your career goals. We provide answers to commonly asked CS PhD questions, provide guidance on the degree, and offer personalized assistance finding the perfect DS degree for you. With our help, you can take control of your future and get the professional boost your need with a doctorate in computer science.
Best Online Computer Science Doctorate Programs for 2023
When it comes to finding the best program for you, there are many factors that should be taken into consideration. Cost, quality, convenience and available resources and support may all play a role in choosing which program is right for you. With so much variation, every student will have different needs – but there are programs out there that excel in numerous areas to provide high-quality, affordable, convenient education with the necessary resources and support for students to thrive. Finding the best option for your needs is possible with the right research and guidance. See which schools landed on our list of the best online computer science doctorates for 2023.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science from Capitol Technology University allows anyone to reach their full potential within the computer science field. As with any other PhD program, this program has a special emphasis on research. However, unlike many other comparable programs, students can choose between a dissertation or publication option. The latter option doesn't lack in research, as students must complete doctoral-level research and have it published in at least three articles in peer-reviewed journals. The program is mostly comprised of independent study, meaning students can graduate in as few as two years, although three years is more typical. To accommodate the fact that most students will be working while in school, the entire program is online, with no campus visits needed to graduate.
Program Highlights:
PhD in Computer Science
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $950/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: MSCHE
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio15
Prospective graduate students who want to continue working while earning a doctoral degree will appreciate the fully online format of Mississippi State University's Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science program. This means no residencies, internships, or other on-campus or in-person requirements are necessary to graduate. However, to facilitate a more interactive learning process, online classes can be viewed live (or at any other time). Interested students should note a few things about the program before applying. First, they'll need a master's degree to be eligible to apply, as this is not a direct admissions doctoral program. Second, the application process doesn't require GRE or GMAT test scores. And lastly, 10 of the required 55 credits include classroom or dissertation coursework of the student's choosing, allowing for degree customization.
Program Highlights:
PhD in Computer Science
- Credits: 55
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $537/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio17
Anyone seeking a terminal degree in a field relating to information technology or computers should consider the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program from Nova Southeastern University. The curriculum is set up so that graduates can use their degree for almost any area in computer science, whether it's working in government, private industry, or academia. The coursework focuses on core computer science topics, such as programming, operating systems, and database management systems. As for the dissertation, students will be encouraged to choose research subjects where they can not only apply their recently acquired knowledge but also can break new ground in cutting-edge topics, including data science and artificial intelligence. This program is flexible to accommodate the specific needs of each student. For example, the program is open to applicants with a master's or a bachelor's degree. While most coursework can be completed online, there are several on-campus academic activities to promote group learning and networking.
Program Highlights:
PhD in Computer Science
- Credits: 51-66
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $969/credit (lower-level courses) and $1,386/credit (upper-level courses)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio17
Online CS Doctorate Spotlights
Northcentral University
Northcentral University’s doctor of philosophy in computer science program is 100% online and gives students the flexibility to propose their own research and build a portfolio of work that best illustrates their abilities and focus. Flexibility is one of the main themes of NCU’s CS doctorate program. The program has ongoing admissions, meaning that students can jump in and start earning their degree every Monday. The program takes about 40 months, with 60 earned credits spread over 20 courses required to earn the degree. The school rewards two full-tuition scholarships and two $20,000 scholarships to new students. The total estimated cost of the program is $68,365, but you should check directly with the school for the most updated tuition and fee schedule.
Colorado Technical University
CTU offers three computer science online doctorate programs, include the general doctorate of computer science. The school also offers a doctorate in big data analytics online and the online doctorate in cybersecurity. CTU has raised the bar when it comes to convenience for online computer science doctorates, offering three start times during the year, the option to complete the program in as little as three years, and dissertation development integrated into the program. While this program is online, there is an on-campus residency requirement for students and opportunities to attend in-person symposiums. Online doctoral candidates at CTU are required to complete 100 credits, and tuition costs run about $59,800, with fees and supplies costing extra.
Mississippi State University
MSU’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering offers an online Ph.D. degree in electrical and computer engineering (ECE). The program prepares students for leadership roles and research in computer and electrical engineering, with a component that allows for students to create and develop their own specific areas of interest. One particular feature that helps this doctorate program stand out is that no matter what state students of Mississippi State University’s online education programs reside, they pay in-state tuition. This can represent a savings of thousands of dollars for out-of-state students. Online graduate students pay $514 per credit, with the total amount of credits required to graduate ranging from 48 to 66 credits, depending on which prerequisites have been completed prior to enrollment.
Benefits of the Online Doctorate in Computer Science
The doctorate in computer science is one of the most extensive advanced degrees available. Graduates can choose from a wide range of computing specializations, including big data, information systems, and artificial intelligence. With this skillset, graduates can go on to work as faculty or research scientists at leading universities, government consultants, or senior engineers at tech giants like Google and Facebook. The computer science doctorate is growing as a top degree for aspiring computer scientists who want to make an impact and advance their career. For those considering this path, there are many opportunities available to specialize and succeed in the world of technology.
Recognizing this growth, colleges across the U.S. are making computer science doctorates accessible to their students online. Distance learning programs and courses allow students to work toward their PhD or doctorate degrees in computer science in a flexible setting. This has two real and distinct benefits when it comes to earning a degree:
Real-time convenience
Depending on the nature of the program, you can submit coursework, participate in online discussion groups, and communicate with professors via email, proprietary learning platforms, and Zoom meetings or Google meetups. While good for just about anyone, this time-and-place flexibility makes it easier for non-traditional students, e.g., working professionals with families, to pursue a terminal degree.
Customizing your pace
Many blended and online computer science doctorates allow students to earn their degree as fast or as slow as they need to. This means taking anywhere between one to four courses per semester and graduating as fast as three years or taking up to seven years to complete the degree. Some programs cap the number of years you can take to graduate, so make sure you fully understand the requirements before applying.
With the growth of online learning, computer science doctorates are becoming more accessible. It’s important to understand the different types of online programs available and how they can shape your journey to a computer science doctorate. From asynchronous learning to hybrid programs and everything in between, there are plenty of options for those seeking an online experience. Make sure you compare the pros and cons of each type of delivery system so you can make an informed decision about which program best matches your needs.
Types of Online PhD Degrees in Computer Science
High-quality online higher education is available in many forms, from fully online programs with no in-person requirements to blended programs with required campus visits for residencies, symposiums, or dissertation defense. With online doctorates, it’s crucial to research each potential program thoroughly, particularly those with campuses that are further away than a few hour’s drive. Even programs advertised as 100% online can have in-person requirements. Here’s what to look for when vetting online computer science programs at the doctorate level.
Fully online with residency
Coursework and communication is done almost exclusively online. Online work includes papers, projects, coding assignments, presentations, and discussion groups. The residency component often comes within one or more of the following areas:
Candidacy exams
After completing all required core coursework, students may be required to pass a candidacy exam that must be taken in person. These exams are designed to measure understanding of the course material completed thus far. Written and oral exams are not unusual in a PhD program.
Dissertation proposals
Before jumping into dissertation research and writing, PhD candidates must defend their proposal to faculty and fellow students. This is to ensure a clear understanding of what the dissertation will be based on and the feasibility of the project. Dissertation proposals often take place in person, but may be done via video conference. Make sure you know which one your school requires.
Dissertation defense
After finishing a dissertation, PhD candidates defend their findings before a faulty panel. This happens in person and is usually open to the public, but again, it may be done via video conference.
Blended and hybrid
Hybrid programs combine campus-based learning with online coursework to balance convenience with instructional face time. Because PhD candidates are usually balancing work and family responsibilities, online programs with in-person requirements will have classes on nights and weekends, usually once a week but sometimes less than that.
Timeline: Online Computer Science PhD
The duration of an online doctorate in computer science varies depending on the type of program and whether part-time study is allowed. Typically, a doctorate can be completed in three to seven years, with students aiming to complete candidacy examinations after two or three years and dissertation defense/project presentation by the end of year five or six. Part-time programs can often be tailored to individual student learning goals, allowing for more flexibility when it comes to completing the degree. With this variation in mind, let’s examine a standard timeline for the most popular online computer science doctorate: the PhD.
Year
1
Students begin with core courses that address program-specific learning outcomes (more on that below). They also weave in electives related to their research interests and identify potential faculty advisors. At this point, students may also be required to file a plan of work to explain their academic intentions.
Year
2
Heightened focus on courses related to research interests and potential dissertation topic. By the end of the year, students should be progressing toward (if not taking) their comprehensive/candidacy examination. This can happen after year two or year three depending on (1) whether the student is full-time or part-time and (2) how many credits the students has achieved prior to doctorate work. Students may also begin forming a dissertation committee and preparing to apply for candidacy.
Year
3
Students should have met with their dissertation committee to finalize research direction on their topic. For full-time students, writing of the dissertation should be well underway. For part-time students, candidacy exams should be passed and dissertation work in the early stages (research and proposal). In years two and three, doctoral students may also be required to present papers at academic conferences.
Year
4
Full-time students should be finishing up their writing and preparing to defend their dissertation. This includes registration for the defense as well as distribution of the paper to the committee beforehand. Part-time students should have candidacy exams passed, dissertation topic approved, and research (and some writing) done at this point.
Year
5
For full-time students, all work should be focused on completing the defense and publication of the dissertation. Part-time students likely will be finishing up the writing portion and eyeing the dissertation defense process.
Year
6 – 7
Full-time students should have their dissertation defended and published by the end of year six. Part-time students, at the very least, should have their paper written and defense scheduled. For the students who need to take full advantage of the program’s seven-year maximum, they should have their final year fully planned with their advising team.
Each online doctorate in computer science has different options and requirements. Make sure you examine your academic and professional wants and needs carefully, and then see if they mesh with potential programs. If you’re ever uncertain, talk to an admissions advisor or program representative.
Online PhD vs. Doctor of Computer Science (DSci) and Doctor of Computer Engineering (DEng)
Advanced students in computer science have a number of doctorate-level degrees from which to choose. Each has guiding philosophies, qualifications, and academic and professional goals slightly different from the others. While the PhD is the most common, the DSci, DEng, and similar variations attract thousands of students each year. Here’s how the three main online doctorate options in computer science stack up.
| Online DSci or DEng | Online PhD in CS | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Practical application of CS principles in a business or industry setting | CS theory and scholarship |
| Student Type | Mid Career | Early career |
| Student Goal | A technical leadership position in industry or the public sector | Academic or research position |
| Funding | Industry or public sector employer | Grant- or scholarship-based |
| Prerequisites | Master’s degree in CS or a related field and professional experience | Bachelor’s degree |
| Length | 3–4 years | 5–6 years |
| Capstone | Portfolio or major project | Dissertation & presentation |
Online CS Doctorate Program Learning Outcomes
Whether pursuing a PhD or one of the practical doctorates, nearly every program starts with a set of learning outcomes. These outcomes serve as a common denominator, with all courses, materials, and projects leading to the achievement of these learning goals. Do these learning outcomes really matter for future PhD students? Absolutely. They tell you what the program is all about, what it emphasizes, where it prepares graduates to work, and more. In essence, they’re the first and most clear-cut way to see if a program makes sense for your career path.
Students may see overlap in the stated learning outcomes for computer science PhDs. For example, most programs will have a combination of the following:
1
Advanced understanding of computer science fundamentals
Students may see similar core areas noted across programs, including data science, artificial intelligence, software, networking theory, and systems. If two programs have variation in their core areas, it could indicate a different focus or faculty expertise. Make sure you read through these carefully, and don’t be afraid to ask an advisor for details.
2
Significant expertise in a research area of choice
Although a general degree is possible in some programs, some degree of specialization is necessary when in a dissertation-dependent program.
3
Produce original research
This comes in the form of primary research unique to the student and the computer science field, ideally in a manner that advances scholarship in their chosen specialty. In practical degree programs, this could be a specific project or portfolio of work that breaks new ground in the field.
4
Communication
Effective communication of research and findings orally and in writing.
In addition to these four outcomes, students may see others that indicate program emphasis on a certain aspect of computer science or advanced study in general. These can include (but are not limited to) the following:
1
Teaching/Instruction
Students gain experience teaching less-experienced students or peers in their area of interest.
2
Publication/Scholarship
Conducting, presenting, and publishing research in academic journals.
3
Community membership
Regular participation at professional conferences or other gatherings to discuss large-scale issues in the field.
4
Ethics
To understand and be able to describe the ethical issues related to computer science issues that involve humans and human interaction.
Specialization in Computer Science: What Focus Should I Target?
A specialization is an area of interest that guides academic research and coursework. While studies at the bachelor’s and master’s levels can be relatively broad — with more emphasis on understanding core concepts — specialization is critical when pursuing a PhD. It drives research, mentorship, and, most importantly, the selection and production of a capstone project or dissertation. It’s also a key step in charting a career path after graduation. Let’s view some of the most popular and up-and-coming areas in which advanced CS students can specialize.
Artificial intelligence (AI)
In addition to AI principles, PhD students can dive into robotics, probabilistic modeling, cognition, and machine learning. This specialization has crossover potential into areas such as medicine, biology, and industrial production.
Biocomputation
Biocomputation concentrates on computational hurdles and solutions within medical informatics. Coursework and research can include advanced algorithms, networking, bioengineering, and even modeling and simulation.
Computer and network security
Research topics in the niche include theory and application in network security, database security, cryptography, and advanced operating systems.
Information management
This track/specialization can span topics from system design and architecture to using machine learning and data mining to conduct advanced analyses with enormous data sets. Students can also perform intense research with information management of web applications, web search, and social media platforms.
Mobile and internet computing
Students interested in this topic can pursue research on anything from networking protocols to the mobile marketplace to the sociotechnical nature of web-based systems. The interaction between humans and computers continues to grow as an academic focus.
Software theory
Rooted in programming languages, software theory research at the doctorate level can focus on one or more languages and how they apply to areas systems development, computer and networking security, and databases.
Systems development
These systems can be as small as a router to as large as massive server farms. PhD-level research occurs in areas of development, maintenance, upgrading, security, and privacy.
Pursuing a doctorate in computer science is an excellent opportunity to focus on the areas of interest that you have already established. Whether your interests lie in academic or professional progress, you can use your master’s degree and experience in the field to hone those skills into something more formal. A doctorate in CS gives you the chance to delve deeply into the topics you find most interesting and pursue a professorship or leadership role in the industry. Before you make the leap, answer these two questions:
1
Advanced understanding of computer science fundamentals
Students may see similar core areas noted across programs, including data science, artificial intelligence, software, networking theory, and systems. If two programs have variation in their core areas, it could indicate a different focus or faculty expertise. Make sure you read through these carefully, and don’t be afraid to ask an advisor for details.
2
Significant expertise in a research area of choice
Although a general degree is possible in some programs, some degree of specialization is necessary when in a dissertation-dependent program.
3
Produce original research
This comes in the form of primary research unique to the student and the computer science field, ideally in a manner that advances scholarship in their chosen specialty. In practical degree programs, this could be a specific project or portfolio of work that breaks new ground in the field.
4
Communication
Effective communication of research and findings orally and in writing.
Accreditation
When choosing an online doctorate computer science program, it’s vital that you pick one that has the proper accreditation. There are two types of accreditation to look out for. The most important one you should look for is the institutional accreditation of the school you choose. Proper institutional accreditation helps ensure that the school you’ve chosen has been properly reviewed to meet curriculum requirements. The U.S. Department of Education oversees the institutional accrediting bodies to ensure they adhere to rigorous standards and offers a public database you can use to check if the schools you’re interested in are accredited.
A computer science program may also be accredited by ABET. ABET accredits postsecondary programs in applied and natural sciences, computing, and engineering. While there are no accrediting bodies for computer science PhD programs in the U.S., ABET accredits associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree levels. If you’re pursuing a PhD in a computer science program with ABET accreditation at other levels, you’re attending a school with a rigorous computer science program in general. The accrediting commissions within ABET include the Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission, the Computing Accreditation Commission, the Engineering Accreditation Commission, and the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission.
Applying to a Computer Science Doctorate Online
Admissions requirements can be fairly standard across computer science doctorates. Applicants to PhD or DSci programs often need a bachelor’s or master’s from a regionally accredited institution, a GPA of 3.0 or higher in that degree program, three letters of recommendation, and a written statement about their interest in the program. Variation exists across programs, with some emphasizing standardize test scores and others looking more to a candidate’s professional experience. Here are the admissions requirements you should examine more closely when vetting potential schools and programs.
GRE scores
This may be where the most variation exists. Some programs have minimum standards for all sections of the GRE (quantitative, qualitative, and analytical writing). This minimum is usually around 300, with at least 150 each on the quantitative and qualitative sections. Students may find that certain PhD programs in computer science look more closely at the quantitative score and require a 155 or 160 for consideration. Furthermore, Ivy League-caliber programs may only admit applicants who scored in the 90th percentile on all GRE sections, while some colleges don’t require GRE scores at all.
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
The importance of the CV to admission can depend greatly on the nature of the program. Because PhD candidates tend to be earlier in their career than DSci or DEng students, PhD programs may place less weight on professional experience. However, admissions boards always want to know what skills you possess, whether gained in school or in the workplace. Make sure you highlight all CS-related knowledge and skills that could help you gain admission to your program of choice.
GPA
Standard programs require a minimum 3.0. More competitive programs may only accept applications from those with a 3.5 or higher. However, be mindful of the period of time over which the GPA must be earned. Even Yale’s computer science program acknowledges that GPA over the most recent two years of study is more important than freshman year grades. Before applying to a CS PhD, make sure your GPA qualifies.
Tuition & Fees
Students considering a PhD in computer science should always ask themselves: can I afford it? Or, even more important, will the degree and salary boost warrant the cost? As with school and program selection, the answers will be unique to the student. However, a deeper understanding of tuition, fees, and salaries for PhD holders can help get you started. Here’s a quick look at in-state tuition for four online computer science doctorates today. They do not factor in additional fees such as registration fees, per-course fees, or technology fees that may occur.
| School | Cost per Credit | Total Credits | Subtotal |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas – Little Rock | $383 | 75 | $28,725 |
| Columbia University | $2,018 | 60 | $121,080 |
| Northcentral University | $1,037 | 60 | $62,220 |
NOTE: Some colleges and programs have tuition assistance, grants, and other payment help specifically for PhD students. This can drive down the cost of a program significantly. While it’s good to know the base tuition rate for a program before you apply, keep in mind that you might pay far less than advertised. Never hesitate to contact a financial aid representative or advisor at a college to see what options you have available. Read through our guide to scholarships and grants to see what’s available and how to apply.
Salaries for Computer Science Doctorates
Does a PhD pay? In computer science it can. According to data from PayScale.com, those with a PhD in computer science earn a mean annual salary of $127,000. This includes professionals with job titles such as senior software engineer, research scientist, computer scientist, and lead data scientist.
Payscale reports earnings for the following job titles that typically require a PhD in computer science:
| Job Title | Median Earnings | 90th Percentile Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Research Scientist | $81,000 | $120,000 |
| Principal Software Engineer | $138,000 | $178,000 |
| Senior Data Scientist | $127,000 | $161,000 |
PayScale.com data indicates that professionals who hold an M.S. in computer science earn $10,000 per year, a full $27,000 less than their doctorate-holding counterparts.