georgia tech online phd computer science

College of Computing

Ph.D. in Computer Science

All students in the program receive the same degree regardless of their interest area, specialization, research focus or school affiliation. New students are affiliated with the school in which their advisor resides, but none of the schools impose any special requirements compared to another.

As a research-oriented degree, the Ph.D. in Computer Science prepares exceptional students for careers at the cutting edge of academia, industry and government. Students are expected to demonstrate excellence in both defining and executing a substantial research project that forms a novel contribution to the state of the art in computing. With a highly individualized program of study, the degree provides students with depth in their chosen research area coupled with a rigorous breadth of knowledge across the discipline.

First granting the doctoral degree in 1969 (as a Ph.D. in Information and Computer Science), the College of Computing represents a continuation of one of the earliest and most well-established graduate Computing institutions in the United States, and in the world. This stature is reflected in our national and international rankings and, most importantly, in the quality of the students who have graduated from our program.

The CS Ph.D. Structure

The coursework component of the Computer Science Ph.D. consists of an introductory course on graduate studies (CS 7001), along with the separate breadth and minor requirements.

The breadth requirement is intended to give students a broad competency across the discipline of computing through coursework in a range of the College's different research areas. This requirement is satisfied by taking five classes from across the College's different research areas and must include a Programming Proficiency course and a Theory course.

The minor is a 9-hour sequence of courses from outside the College that constitutes a coherent program of study and is determined by the student and advisor. The minor builds non-Computing expertise in an area related to the student's core research area.

As students progress, they must select a primary area of research and pass a qualifier (comprehensive exam) in that area to demonstrate mastery of the field in their chosen area, and readiness to do research.

While coursework plays an important role in the Ph.D., by far the most important component of the degree is the student's individual dissertation research project. This project should contribute to new knowledge in the field of computing, and should demonstrate the student's proficiency in defining and executing a compelling research agenda.

The dissertation research plan is formalized in a written proposal followed by an oral presentation. When a student passes his or her proposal, the student is admitted to candidacy and proceeds with the dissertation research, which is completed with the successful defense and submission of the approved doctoral dissertation.

Program of Study

Want to know more details about the program of study for the Ph.D. in CS? Find out about breadth component areas and courses, minors, qualifying exams, and more on the Ph.D. CS - Program of Study page.

Explore the Program of Study for the Ph.D. in CS

Computer Science Research

The breadth of the College's research endeavors makes our doctorate degree in computer science unique: the research specializations in the College span what is typically found in a "traditional" CS department, along with elements found in EECS, robotics, or information schools in other universities. This diversity allows students to formulate a unique individual program of study all within the CS degree, which may be impossible at other universities.

Learn more about our Areas of Research

Admissions Requirements and Applications

If this kind of work interests you and fits with your career aspirations, why not go ahead and apply?

Need more information about our admissions requirements? Find an overview of these requirements on our Ph.D. CS - Admissions Requirements page.

Ph.D. CS - Admissions Requirements

Current Ph.D. in CS Student Information

If you are a current student in our Ph.D. in Computer Science program, you can find information on your qualifying exams on our website. If you still cannot find the information you are looking for, please reach out to your assigned program advisor. 

Ph.D. CS - Qualifier Exam Information

CS Ph.D. Student Handbook

Older handbook:

2022  CS Ph.D. Student Handbook  

2021 CS Ph.D. Student Handbook

From the Catalog:

School of Interactive Computing

College of computing.

Ph.D. Programs

For those students looking to build a career in computing research, the School of Interactive Computing offers a range of Ph.D. programs that allow students to work side-by-side with some of the most brilliant researchers and computer scientists in the world. For those looking to join the ranks of academia, we regularly place our doctorate graduates in tenure-track positions in top programs. The School maintains strong research relationships with companies from Fortune 500 companies to the latest startups that allow graduates to continue their research in jobs at some of the world’s hottest private sector employers.

If you’re ready to join the ranks of the world’s top computer scientists, we’ve got a Ph.D. program that’s ready to challenge you.

Ph.D. IN COMPUTER SCIENCE

As a research-oriented degree, the Ph.D. in Computer Science prepares exceptional students for careers at the cutting edge of academia, industry and government. 

Ph.D. IN HUMAN-CENTERED COMPUTING

A program devoted to the interdisciplinary science of designing computational artifacts that better support human endeavors.

Ph.D. IN ROBOTICS

Educating a new generation of robotics researchers and preparing them to be impactful contributors upon entering the high-tech workforce.

Ph.D. IN MACHINE LEARNING

Machine learning builds and learns from both algorithm and theory to understand the world around us and create the tools we need and want.

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Georgia Institute of Technology

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PhD Program

The machine learning (ML) Ph.D. program is a collaborative venture between Georgia Tech's colleges of Computing, Engineering, and Sciences. Approximately 25-30 students enter the program each year through nine different academic units. 

ML@GT manages all operations and curricular requirements for the new Ph.D. Program, which include four core and five elective courses, a qualifying exam, and a doctoral dissertation defense .

See the curriculum overview for more information.

Students admitted into the ML Ph.D. program can be advised by any of our  participating ML Ph.D. Program faculty .

More information about admission to the ML Ph.D. program can be found here .

More information about the program itself, including details on operations and curriculum outlined in the ML Handbook, can be found in the current student resources.

ML@GT Ph.D. Faculty Advisory Committee

• Aerospace Engineering (AE): Evangelos Theodorou, [email protected]
• Biomedical Engineering (BME): May Wang, [email protected]
• Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (ChBE): Martha Grover, [email protected]
• Computational Science and Engineering (CSE): Polo Chau, [email protected]
• Electrical Computer Engineering (ECE): David Anderson, [email protected]
• Computer Science (CS): Jacob Abernethy, prof.gatech.edu
• Industrial Systems Engineering (ISyE): Yao Xie, [email protected]
• Interactive Computing (IC): Zsolt Kira, [email protected]
• Mathematics (MATH): Vladimir Koltchinskii, [email protected]

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Graduate Study in Computer Science

Master’s degrees.

• Master of Science in Computer Science
• Master of Science in Cybersecurity
• Master of Science in BioInformatics

Doctoral Degrees

• Doctor of Philosophy with a Major in Computer Science
• Doctor of Philosophy with a Major in Algorithms, Combinatorics & Optimization
• Doctor of Philosophy with a Major in Bioengineering
• Doctor of Philosophy with a Major in BioInformatics

Bioengineering Programs

In response to the increased need for engineers and medical scientists with advanced training in bioengineering, Georgia Tech now offers master's and PhD degrees in bioengineering. The purpose of bioengineering as a research discipline is

• to develop new and better physical and mathematical concepts and techniques that may be applied to problems in medicine and biology,
• to the development of new medical technologies, and
• to the organization and delivery of cost-effective healthcare.

Interdisciplinary graduate programs in Bioengineering are offered by the College of Computing in conjunction with the Bioengineering Center in the Office of Interdisciplinary Programs, the College of Engineering, and the College of Sciences. The student's home unit will be the College of Computing, which, upon completion of the student's requirements, will recommend the degree. This interdisciplinary approach has been approved by the faculty in the Schools of Aerospace Engineering, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Polymer, Textile and Fiber Engineering, and by the deans of the Colleges of Computing, Engineering, and Sciences.

The program is for computer science or engineering graduates who wish to pursue a degree in bioengineering rather than in a traditional field of computing or engineering, or who have done bioengineering research in other disciplines. In addition, those interested students with non-engineering backgrounds (with degrees in such fields as physics, chemistry, biology, or mathematics) who meet the admission requirements will be admitted to the program. Applications from physicians with undergraduate degrees in engineering or the physical sciences will also be considered. All applications will be processed through the Bioengineering Center.

Additional information is available at www.bme.gatech.edu .

Graduate Cooperative Programs

The Graduate Cooperative Education Program provides master’s and doctoral degree students majoring in any discipline at Georgia Tech the opportunity to supplement their graduate studies with specialized work experience. Graduate co-op students gain experience with top employers, earn competitive salaries to help defray educational expenses, and expand post-graduation career options while on semester-long work assignments.

The Graduate Co-op Program is available to enrolled Georgia Tech students and is based upon academic achievement. Internships related to a student’s field of study can receive academic approval as a graduate cooperative work assignment allowing students to work summer, fall, or spring semesters, full-time or part-time.

There are no fees associated with the Graduate Co-op Program and students are provided full-time enrollment status through their registration in a Graduate Co-op course. This permits students to retain all privileges of full-time enrolled students while on work assignments.

To participate in the Graduate Co-op Program, a student must

• have a 3.0 or better GPA,
• complete an online orientation session, and
• obtain a program participation letter from their major school.

Students normally identify their own job opportunities, but the Graduate Co-op Office provides access to a job posting database and can assist with career guidance, job searches, resumes, and cover letters. Graduate students accepting a graduate co-op/internship opportunity should see a Graduate Co-op Program advisor regarding offer letters, required academic approvals, registration permits, and any necessary work authorizations. Enrollment in a 6000-level co-op course, a noncredit/no-cost audit course with no student or Institute fees attached, is also required.

International students are eligible to participate, but F-1 visa holders must be enrolled for a minimum of nine months before being able to work off campus. All international students on F-1, J-1, and other appropriate visas must work with the Office of International Education to secure work authorization documentation.

For more information on the Georgia Tech Graduate Co-op and Internship Program, visit: www.gradcoop.gatech.edu .

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Online Master's Degrees

Choose From 13 Online Master's Degrees

Master of Science Degrees

Professional master's degrees, all degrees.

• Aerospace Engineering
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Online and Hybrid Master's Degrees from a Top-Ranked Research University

For over 40 years, Georgia Tech Professional Education has delivered online learning programs to career-focused adults across the globe. Built on Georgia Tech's rigorous on-campus programs, our 10 online Master of Science degrees and three hybrid professional master's degrees are designed to provide you the STEM and leadership capabilities to be competitive in your field. In addition to a sought-after credential from a world-renowned university, you can also expect:

• World-class faculty
• Media-rich, digital learning tools
• High quality, rigorous courses

In annual rankings from  U.S. News & World Report , Georgia Tech graduate programs consistently rank in the top 10. The proven excellence of Georgia Tech graduate degrees and the convenience of online delivery make them a compelling choice for working professionals. 

Master of Science

Our online master's programs give you the flexibility to study where you want, whenever you want. Each course is as rigorous as its on-campus equivalent, allowing you to build real-world knowledge and skills that advance your career without interrupting it.

When you participate in our distance learning programs, you access a wealth of technological and industry knowledge while building a network comprised of Georgia Tech faculty and industry professionals. A media-rich, collaborative learning environment will allow you to interact with classmates and faculty members virtually. You'll also have 24/7 access to online lectures, videos, discussion boards, and more.

Upon completion of their online degrees, many students make the journey to Atlanta for Commencement ceremonies, where they can meet their peers and professors in person.

With the help of GTPE, these postgraduate programs enable working professionals to earn Georgia Tech degrees while continuing to work full-time. You'll experience a level of academic rigor consistent with a top-ranked technology and engineering university.

You’ll gain applied practical learning in a convenient format that combines face-to-face instruction with online learning. This hybrid approach only requires you to commit to three week-long visits to Georgia Tech’s main campus in Atlanta. You will obtain the remainder of your two-year education online via pre-recorded lectures and real-time web-conferencing sessions.

Each program consists of 10 courses. You’ll focus on one class at a time, culminating with a capstone course that challenges you to apply what you’ve learned to address a real industry problem.

Master of Science Degree vs. Professional Master’s Degree

What is it? Who is it for? What's the difference? Interested in a graduate degree from Georgia Tech, but not sure which program type is right for you? Our comparison chart will allow you to explore the opportunities and requirements associated with the online degree type to help you determine which one is right for you.

Earn an advanced degree from a top-ranking university online, without interrupting your life.

These unique programs provide applied practical learning in a convenient hybrid format.

Master's Degree Enrollments

Thousands of learners enroll in our online master's and professional master's degree programs annually.

Additional Information

Accreditation.

For information on Georgia Tech’s institutional accreditation see gatech.edu/accreditation .

NC-SARA Approval

The Institute has been approved by the state of Georgia to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA).

NC-SARA is a voluntary, regional approach to state oversight of postsecondary distance education. The State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) is an agreement among member states, districts, and territories that establish comparable national standards for interstate offering of postsecondary distance education courses and programs. It is intended to make it easier for students to take online courses offered by postsecondary institutions based in another state. SARA is overseen by a National Council and administered by four regional education compacts.

Georgia Tech Veterans Resource Center

The Georgia Tech Veterans Resource Center promotes student learning and development and supports degree completion for students who are veterans, military, reservist, guard members, and dependents by providing comprehensive support services that enhance and compliment the academic experience. Visit the Georgia Tech Veterans Resource Center website for more information.

Want to learn more about our online degrees?

College of Computing

Computing Students Awarded IBM Ph.D. Fellowships

Thursday, March 28, 2024

College of Computing School of Computer Science School of Interactive Computing

Two College of Computing Ph.D. students are receiving recognition for their academic excellence and exceptional research potential.

IBM Research selected Yonggan Fu and Grace Guo as recipients of 2023 IBM PhD Fellowship Awards.

The program supports Ph.D. students with expertise artificial intelligence (AI), hybrid cloud technology, quantum computing, data science, security, and the next generation of cutting-edge processors. Fu and Guo will each receive $40,000 and be paired with an IBM mentor during their fellowships.

Fu is a fifth-year Ph.D. student in Georgia Tech’s School of Computer Science. He is advised by Associate Professor Yingyan (Celine) Lin and is a member of her Efficient and Intelligent Computing (EIC) Lab .

Fu's research centers on democratizing cutting-edge AI technology on everyday devices by developing efficient and robust AI algorithms and co-designing the corresponding hardware accelerators. He focuses on efficient 3D reconstruction and efficient large language models.

“The goal of efficient 3D reconstruction is to reconstruct the 3D world on an artificial reality headset, which can enable you to do more in virtual reality,” said Fu.

Fu is interested in efficient AI because it has to capability to use AI to empower peoples’ everyday lives.

Fu says he is honored to receive the fellowship and is looking forward to what he will learn from his IBM mentor and the experience. After finishing his Ph.D., Fu hopes to work in industry continuing his work on efficient AI.

Associate Professor Alex Endert advises Guo, a fifth-year Ph.D. student in the School of Interactive Computing. She is a member of Endert’s Visual Analytics Lab , where he researchers AI, human-computer interaction and data visualization.

Guo has already interned at IBM, where she worked with researchers to create Causalvis, a Python library of interactive visualizations that inform casual inference — the process of drawing causal conclusions based on data.

She presented a paper on the subject at the 2023 Association for Computing Machinery’s Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems (ACM CHI) in Hamburg, Germany.

“Every time I work there, I always have a great time,” Guo said about her work with IBM. “I get a mentor who is the researcher I had interned and wrote papers with.

“It’s exciting to be exposed to a lot of new ideas. There were many experts on causal inference at IBM, so it was interesting to learn about these new methods and statistical approaches.”

Guo said she isn’t sure whether she will pursue a career in academia or industry, but her time with IBM has made her lean toward industry. If all goes well during her fellowship, it makes sense to continue her research in industry, she said.

School of Interactive Computing communications officer Nathan Deen and School of Computer Science communications officer Morgan Usry contributed to this article.

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Computer Science (MS)

Focus: expanding upon the fundamentals of programming and computational theory to prepare students for highly productive careers in industry.