Fully Funded PhD in Computer Science
In the ODU Ph.D. program, research is led by our graduate faculty who have interests in bioinformatics, machine intelligence and data analytics, networks, systems, security, parallel algorithms and computing, scientific computing, stochastic modeling, and web science and digital libraries.
Technology is the driving force behind modern daily life. Social media, mobile payments, and the “internet of things” have proven to be essential tools for our personal and professional lives, and the future promises an even more interconnected world. Demand for tech talent remains high, with excellent job outlooks for data analysts, software developers, web programmers, and network architects.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that computer and informational technology jobs will grow by 13% from 2016 to 2026. That’s 5,400 more jobs with a median salary of $114,520 — 67% more than the national average salary.
PhD in Computer Science Program Requirements
Students may be admitted directly to the PhD program with either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree, preferably with a computer science related major, but that is not a requirement. However, if you do not have a BS in Computer Science, you may be required to complete undergraduate prerequisites before you are eligible to take graduate courses or hold a Graduate Teaching Assistantship.
PhD Funding Coverage
The College of Sciences offers the Dominion Graduate Scholar appointment, a competitive award for newly admitted graduate students. In the Department of Computer Science, these Dominion Graduate Scholar awards carry a $20,000 stipend for 12 months.
These awards include full tuition exemption and require that students be enrolled in at least nine hours of graduate courses each semester and three graduate credits during the summer.
The awards are made for a maximum of 2 years, but continuation for the second year will be contingent upon satisfactory performance in the graduate program during the first year.
Qualified graduate students have the opportunity to receive funding while in the graduate program at ODU. Many of our graduate students are funded either through Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) or Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA).
Application Requirement
1. Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees: Typically, you’ll need to have completed a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Many Ph.D. programs also require applicants to have a master’s degree in computer science or a closely related discipline. Some programs do accept students with only a bachelor’s degree directly into their Ph.D. program, but this is less common.
2. Transcripts: You will need to submit official transcripts from all the colleges and universities you have attended, including undergraduate and graduate institutions. These transcripts should demonstrate a strong academic record.
3. Letters of Recommendation: You will usually need to provide letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can speak to your academic and research abilities. These letters should be able to attest to your potential as a Ph.D. candidate.
4. Statement of Purpose: A statement of purpose is a crucial part of your application. This essay should explain why you want to pursue a Ph.D. in Computer Science at ODU, your research interests, and how the program aligns with your academic and career goals.
5. GRE Scores: While some universities have been moving away from requiring GRE scores, it’s still a possibility that ODU may ask for GRE scores as part of the application process. Check their website for the most current information regarding this requirement.
6. Resume or CV: You’ll likely need to provide a detailed resume or curriculum vitae (CV) outlining your academic and professional experiences.
7. TOEFL/IELTS Scores (for International Students): If you are an international applicant and your native language is not English, you may need to provide English language proficiency test scores like TOEFL or IELTS.
Application Deadline
June 1, November 1, March 1
