Fully Funded PhD in Computer and Information Science
University of Michigan-Dearborn’s College of Engineering and Computer Science (CECS) is a leader in providing quality graduate programs in an environment integrated with research, engineering practice and continuing professional education.
The Ph.D. program addresses the growing need for meaningful research in computer and information science as well as computational professionals with advanced knowledge and technical skills. This Ph.D. program of the Rackham Graduate School of the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is located, administered, and offered by UM-Dearborn.
The program observes the standards for admissions, registration, degree requirements, awarding of degrees, and other administrative policies and regulations established by the Executive Board of the Rackham Graduate School.
PhD in Computer and Information Science Program Requirements
Admission to the Ph.D. degree is offered to exceptional students who have completed, with distinction, a Bachelor’s or a master’s degree in computer and information science or a closely related field. Working engineers can be accepted with a master’s degree.
A bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering, applied mathematics, computer science, or physical science, from an accredited program. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher on a 4-point scale for the B.S. degree and 3.5 or higher on a 4-point scale for the master’s degree.
There are three types of students who will be admitted to the Ph.D. CIS program:
1. Students with just a B.S. in computer and information science or closely related area
- Complete at least 36 credit hours of coursework, including 30 credit hours toward the completion of the MS degree, and at least 24 dissertation credits, and can earn an M.S. CIS, M.S. DS, M.S. SWE, M.S. CIA or M.S. AI along the way to their Ph.D. CIS.
2. Students with a relevant Rackham or a UM-Dearborn master’s degree
- Complete at least 6 credits of coursework and at least 24 dissertation credits.
3. Students with a relevant non-Rackham and non-UM-Dearborn master’s degree
- Complete at least 18 credits of coursework and at least 24 credits of thesis research.
Students with insufficient background in computer and information science who are accepted into the program will be assigned remedial courses to complete.
PhD Funding Coverage
Our Ph.D. program adheres to the CECS full-funding model for Ph.D. students. All Ph.D. students receive full-funding in the form of an appointment as a Graduate Student Instructor (GSI), Research Assistant (GSRA), or a combination of both which covers: a monthly stipend, health insurance, and tuition waiver.
Students admitted to the program are fully funded for up to five years. Funding is guaranteed based on continued good academic standing and adequate progress towards the Ph.D. degree.
Application Requirement
1. Statement of Purpose
The academic statement of purpose should indicate the intended field or fields of research. A personal statement is also required that describes the background and life experiences, including cultural, geographical, financial, educational or other opportunities or challenges that motivate the decision to pursue a Ph.D. degree at the University of Michigan-Dearborn.
2. Resume or CV
Two-page limit for master’s applicants; Four-page limit for doctoral or specialist applicants. Please include education information; work experience; research, teaching, or internship experience; professional affiliations, volunteer activities; community engagement; and relevant honors or awards.
3. Letters of Recommendation
Three letters of recommendation, at least one of which must come from former faculty.
4. College/University Transcripts
Transcripts (academic records) for all colleges/universities attended, regardless of whether a degree was earned, are required. All colleges/universities should be reported within the online application, including the University of Michigan-Dearborn and credit transferred into a University of Michigan-Dearborn degree. Academic records provided must show the course work completed and grades earned.
5. GRE/GMAT
Our graduate programs do not require the GRE or GMAT. If received, they will be linked to your application file and weighed at the discretion of the review committee during decision review. As part of our holistic admissions process, the admissions committee may ask some applicants to submit scores if additional information is necessary to help demonstrate readiness to succeed a graduate program. Official scores are required if submitting GRE or GMAT scores.
6. English Language Proficiency
Any applicant whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency in one of the following ways:
- Submit official scores from an approved English language proficiency exam.
- Meet the criteria for an exemption from taking an English language proficiency exam.
- Required minimum overall scores are 84 for Internet-Based TOEFL, 6.5 for IELTS.
Application Deadline
February 1, 2025
Application Fees
Submission of an online application requires payment of a $60 application fee.
