College of Science
Department of Computer Science
The Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science is, above all else, a degree of quality. Completing a specific number of graduate courses or years of study is insufficient to receive the degree. Obtaining a Ph.D. indicates significant contributions to a field and recognition of the awarded student as the world’s foremost expert in their dissertation topic. A successful candidate must demonstrate a breadth of understanding of computer science topics along with mastery of their chosen area(s) of emphasis. Students must also be able to perform independent and innovative research over a significant period; thus, each successful Ph.D. candidate will produce a substantial piece of original research that is presented in a written dissertation and defended in an oral examination. This work should be of such quality that one or more journal or conference articles can be derived from it.
An overall GPA of 3.5 or higher and individual course grades of B or higher (in all degree-program coursework) are required. All Ph.D./CS students must meet the breadth, depth, and research requirements outlined below. Credit requirements vary depending on the previous degree earned by the student and are listed below for students with an MS degree and with only a BS degree.
Students with an overall GPA below 3.5 at the completion of fall and spring semesters will be issued an academic warning. If a student’s institution or Program of Study GPA remains below 3.5 for two consecutive semesters, they will be dismissed from the program. If their GPA satisfies the GPA requirement of M.S. students, they may opt to transfer to a master’s program in the department in lieu of dismissal.
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. college or university or a similarly recognized international university is required for admission to and completion of a graduate program.
A doctorate must be completed within eight years of entering the degree program. Additional time may be requested by the student’s committee and submitted to the Vice Provost of Graduate Studies for review. Coursework over eight years old at the time of degree completion may not be used for a graduate degree unless it is revalidated.
At least 33 semester credits for a doctoral (Ph.D.) degree must be taken from Utah State University and be part of an approved Program of Study. At least three semesters, two of which must be consecutive, of full-time registration in residence at Utah State University, is required.
Students must submit and obtain approval of academic forms required for doctoral students by the School of Graduate Studies.
