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The Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science (Ph.D in Computer Science) is awarded to candidates who complete both the advanced‑coursework and research requirements of the program. Working closely with a faculty advisor, each student selects graduate‑level classes that strengthen their command of core computer‑science principles – ranging from machine learning and cybersecurity to data systems, software engineering, human–computer interaction, high‑performance computing, and theoretical foundations.
Candidates are also required to carry out independent research. Under the guidance of a experienced researchers, they tackle a focused problem in computer science, aiming to innovate new ideas or technologies. The culmination of this work is a dissertation that is publicly defended before a committee of experts.
Typical milestones include a qualifying examination in the first year, a formal dissertation proposal in the second year, and ongoing pu blication of findings in leading conferences and journals. Many candidates also gain teaching experience by assisting with undergraduate or master’s courses.
Graduates of this program will be prepared for impactful careers—whether as academics shaping the next generation of computer scientists, researchers advancing knowledge in cutting‑edge labs, or industry leaders driving innovation with deep technical insight.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Computer Science and Information Systems
Degree
PhD
Study Level
PHD
Study Mode
On Campus
The Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science (Ph.D in Computer Science) is awarded to candidates who complete both the advanced‑coursework and research requirements of the program. Working closely with a faculty advisor, each student selects graduate‑level classes that strengthen their command of core computer‑science principles – ranging from machine learning and cybersecurity to data systems, software engineering, human–computer interaction, high‑performance computing, and theoretical foundations.
Candidates are also required to carry out independent research. Under the guidance of a experienced researchers, they tackle a focused problem in computer science, aiming to innovate new ideas or technologies. The culmination of this work is a dissertation that is publicly defended before a committee of experts.
Typical milestones include a qualifying examination in the first year, a formal dissertation proposal in the second year, and ongoing pu blication of findings in leading conferences and journals. Many candidates also gain teaching experience by assisting with undergraduate or master’s courses.
Graduates of this program will be prepared for impactful careers—whether as academics shaping the next generation of computer scientists, researchers advancing knowledge in cutting‑edge labs, or industry leaders driving innovation with deep technical insight.
Admission Requirements
91+
6.5+
Regular PhD (For applicants with a Master’s degree)
Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.0 out of 4.0, or equivalent (e.g. an upper second-class honors in a UK-style degree, from a reputable accredited institution).
Completion of a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum CGPA of 3.25 out of 4.0 or equivalent from a reputable accredited institution.
Direct PhD (For applicants without a Master’s degree)
Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.5 out of 4.0 or equivalent from a reputable accredited institution.
A minimum quantitative score of 150 in the general Graduate Record Examination (GRE) (The test must be taken at a test center as the GRE Home Edition is not accepted). Applicants must attempt all three sections of the GRE.
Requirements for Both Regular & Direct PhD Applicants
A minimum level of English proficiency in the form of either: iBT TOEFL (internet-based test) score of 91 (The test must be taken at a test center as the TOEFL iBT Home Edition is not accepted) or equivalent,or Overall academic IELTS score of 6.5, or
A minimum of two referee recommendations (provided via online form).
Statement of purpose (500-1,000 words).
Research statement (500-1,000 words).
Admission interview.
4 Years
Aug
Candidates are required to submit references or letter(s) of recommendation for acceptance
Candidates are required to submit an essay(s) for acceptance
Tuition fees
Domestic
25,862 USD
International
25,862 USD
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
PhD in Computer Science
Main Campus, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
48 monthsProgramme duration
25,862 USDTuition Fee/year
AugStarting Month
Programme overview
Main Subject
Computer Science and Information Systems
Degree
PhD
Study Level
PHD
Study Mode
On Campus
Candidates are also required to carry out independent research. Under the guidance of a experienced researchers, they tackle a focused problem in computer science, aiming to innovate new ideas or technologies. The culmination of this work is a dissertation that is publicly defended before a committee of experts.
Typical milestones include a qualifying examination in the first year, a formal dissertation proposal in the second year, and ongoing pu blication of findings in leading conferences and journals. Many candidates also gain teaching experience by assisting with undergraduate or master’s courses.
Graduates of this program will be prepared for impactful careers—whether as academics shaping the next generation of computer scientists, researchers advancing knowledge in cutting‑edge labs, or industry leaders driving innovation with deep technical insight.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Computer Science and Information Systems
Degree
PhD
Study Level
PHD
Study Mode
On Campus
Candidates are also required to carry out independent research. Under the guidance of a experienced researchers, they tackle a focused problem in computer science, aiming to innovate new ideas or technologies. The culmination of this work is a dissertation that is publicly defended before a committee of experts.
Typical milestones include a qualifying examination in the first year, a formal dissertation proposal in the second year, and ongoing pu blication of findings in leading conferences and journals. Many candidates also gain teaching experience by assisting with undergraduate or master’s courses.
Graduates of this program will be prepared for impactful careers—whether as academics shaping the next generation of computer scientists, researchers advancing knowledge in cutting‑edge labs, or industry leaders driving innovation with deep technical insight.
Admission Requirements
- Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.0 out of 4.0, or equivalent (e.g. an upper second-class honors in a UK-style degree, from a reputable accredited institution).
- Completion of a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum CGPA of 3.25 out of 4.0 or equivalent from a reputable accredited institution.
Direct PhD (For applicants without a Master’s degree)- Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.5 out of 4.0 or equivalent from a reputable accredited institution.
- A minimum quantitative score of 150 in the general Graduate Record Examination (GRE) (The test must be taken at a test center as the GRE Home Edition is not accepted). Applicants must attempt all three sections of the GRE.
Requirements for Both Regular & Direct PhD ApplicantsiBT TOEFL (internet-based test) score of 91 (The test must be taken at a test center as the TOEFL iBT Home Edition is not accepted) or equivalent,or
Overall academic IELTS score of 6.5, or
Tuition fees
Domestic
International
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
How to get a full scholarship
Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.
Scholarships to study abroad
Find scholarships to study abroad with our lists of international scholarships – categorized by country, by subject, and by type of student.
Scholarship Applications: Frequently Asked Questions
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