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Online Doctorate in Computer Science

Earning a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in computer science opens doors to opportunities on the cutting edge of the field and qualifies graduates for research jobs in academia, research and development, and government.

The most common doctoral degree in computer science is the Ph.D., but some schools offer a Doctor of Computer Science (DCS) instead. The two degrees are academically equivalent and both provide an intensive, research-based curriculum.

Due to momentous gains in technology, more and more businesses require leaders with technological savvy. Though less prevalent, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) with a specialization in applied computer science is rising in popularity. These DBA programs help prepare graduates for both leadership and technological roles.

Choosing the right computer science doctorate program

Admission requirements for a Ph.D. in computer science vary widely from one school to another. Some schools require applicants to hold a master's degree in computer science, while other schools only require a bachelor's in a related field. Regardless of the admission requirements, applicants will need a strong quantitative background to be competitive.

Fully online computer science doctoral degrees are available, and online schools tend to offer the DCS degree. Online computer science doctorates provide students the ability to complete their coursework at their own pace, and some offer flexible enrollment dates. Online doctoral programs commonly require students to attend short, intensive residences that enable interaction and networking opportunities with faculty and fellow classmates.

How online doctoral programs in computer science work

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that a doctoral degree in computer science typically requires at least five years of study beyond the bachelor's degree, and includes advanced courses in computer and software systems, artificial intelligence, microprocessors, and digital communications.

Breadth curriculum, which calls for several different classes encompassing core disciplines within the field, is required at many schools. Students typically complete these core courses early in the program before moving on to specialize in a particular area of computer science. Comprehensive exams, which are administered before students can advance to Ph.D. candidacy, cover both core topics and individual areas of expertise.

The second half of a computer science doctorate program is spent working on dissertation research. Some schools, such as Stanford University, allow students to start with smaller research projects as soon as the Ph.D. program begins, helping form the base of the more in-depth dissertation.

Dissertations are based upon original research and should help contribute to the world of computing. Once the topic is approved by a faculty committee, the dissertation begins with in-depth, exhaustive research and concludes with an oral presentation and defense of the work. The project showcases investigative research and analysis skills learned throughout the program.

Deciding to earn a doctoral degree is a life changing decision. Browse through the schools below to get more information about online doctorate in computer science programs or to arrange to speak with an admissions representative.

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