Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in

Computer Science

Online

Program Overview

Advance the frontiers of computing through rigorous research, innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. The PhD in Computer Science prepares students to develop original contributions to the field while building expertise in algorithms, systems and emerging technologies.

Students engage in hands-on research from the start of the program, working closely with faculty to address complex, real-world challenges and advance knowledge in areas such as artificial intelligence, data science and computing systems.

Online Program Format

67 Credit Hours

$440 Tuition Per Hour

Structured Pathway to Research Expertise

The PhD in Computer Science is a research-intensive program that integrates advanced coursework, mentored research and teaching experience to prepare graduates for leadership roles in academia, industry and research organizations. Students complete 67 credit hours, combining core coursework, electives, mentored research, instructional experience and dissertation research.

Key program components include early engagement in faculty-guided research through mentored research experiences, the development of teaching and communication skills through structured instructional training, and the completion of qualifying exams along with a dissertation that demonstrates original research contributions.

Graduates of the PhD in Computer Science are prepared for advanced careers in academia, research and industry, including roles as university faculty, computer and information research scientists, AI and machine learning researchers, and technical leaders in research and development environments. The program emphasizes both theoretical depth and applied research, equipping graduates to lead innovation and make meaningful contributions across a wide range of computing domains.

Application Deadline

Applications accepted year round

Curriculum

The PhD in Computer Science curriculum combines 67 credit hours of advanced coursework with extensive research and professional development experiences, including core and elective courses, mentored research, instructional training and dissertation work. Students gain hands-on experience early through faculty-guided research and teaching opportunities, helping them build both technical expertise and communication skills.

Progression through the program includes key milestones such as the qualifying exam, admission to candidacy, and completion and defense of an original research dissertation. Please note that courses are subject to change.

Required Courses

CS 503 Programming Languages
CS 538 Computer Communications and Networks
CS 570 Computer Algorithms

Admission

Application Deadlines

PhD in CS applications are accepted on a rolling basis for fall, spring or summer entry. Applicants must hold a STEM-related bachelor’s degree or demonstrate relevant experience in the application, including competency in programming and mathematics.

Application Requirements

Applicants must have the following qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (computer science or another STEM discipline, or equivalent industry experience)
Academic transcripts from all institutions attended
Resume (optional, but recommended)
Statement of purpose, which should address your background, reasons for enrolling in the PhD in CS and post-graduation goals over 1-2 pages.

FAQs

Who should apply?

This program is ideal for students interested in leading advanced research in computer science and making original contributions to the field. It is well-suited for those seeking comprehensive training that integrates coursework, research and teaching experience, as well as individuals pursuing high-impact careers in academia, industry or research leadership roles.

Is this program fully online?

Yes, this program is 100% online. Students will have an option to take live, synchronous lectures with main-campus PhD students, but live participation is not required. All lectures will be recorded and made available to online learners as asynchronous content.

What research opportunities are available?

Students participate in mentored research experiences beginning in their first year and complete a dissertation that advances new knowledge in the field. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to contact faculty who share their research interests prior to application.

What are the major milestones?

Key milestones include the qualifying exam, admission to candidacy and dissertation proposal and defense.

Student Spotlight

Inspiring stories of success from students and alumni.

Take a look at some of our UA Online stories.

See All Stories

Jaclyn Foster

America250: A Constitution for Teaching

Jaclyn Foster earned her MA in Secondary Education (Social Science) to enhance her teaching of the U.S. Constitution.
Read More : America250: A Constitution for Teaching | MA in Secondary Education (General Social Science 6-12 Certification)
Jane Sulser

Changing Classrooms

After 30 years of teaching third grade, Jane Sulser forged a new path with an EdD in Curriculum and Instruction through UA Online.
Read More : Changing Classrooms | EdD in Curriculum and Instruction
Myrikle Walker

Reaching a Lifelong Goal

Myrikle Walker knew earning a graduate degree would require a program that could fit into the demands of everyday life.
Read More : UA Online Helped Me Reach a Lifelong Goal | MA in Elementary Education
Tia Rockwell

Helping Those in Need

Earning her Master of Social Work online let Tia Rockwell make a bigger impact alongside her roles as military spouse and mother.
Read More : Helping Those in Need | Master of Social Work (MSW)
Morgan Grooms

Planting the Seeds of Tomorrow

Morgan Grooms didn’t expect her first visit to Tuscaloosa to transform her future and inspire dozens of sixth graders to do the same.
Read More : Planting the Seeds of Tomorrow | MA in Instructional Technology
Nicholas Hartley

The Best Path

With tough choices before him, Nicholas weighed his options and found a smooth path that let him accept the job and earn his master’s degree.
Read More : The Best Path Doesn’t Have To Be the Hardest | MS in Operations Management
Dawn Stephens

Devoted Mother

When Dawn Stephens determined it was time to finish her bachelor’s degree, she chose UA Online’s New College LifeTrack.
Read More : Devoted Mother to Full-Time Special Ed Teacher | BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
Captain Ryan Jacobs

This Turtle Soars

A dedicated member of the United States Air Force who excels with honors wherever he lands.
Read More : This Turtle Soars | MS in Marketing Analytics
Megan Brannan-Pierce

Q&A with Megan

We caught up with her to learn more about the exciting transformation of her career since graduation.
Read More : Q&A with Megan Brannan-Pierce | MA in Special Education – Gifted