Ph.D. in Computer Science
You'll work alongside leading faculty on advanced research in areas like artificial intelligence, data science, computer vision, and high-performance computing.
Push the Boundaries of Computing Research
What you'll learn
Deepen your expertise through advanced research and specialized coursework. Collaborate with leading faculty in artificial intelligence, machine learning, bioinformatics, databases, theory, and cybersecurity, and use IU’s powerful supercomputing resources to push the boundaries of computer science.
You can shape your experience with interdisciplinary opportunities in fields such as cognitive science, biology, and statistics while building the expertise to drive future innovations in technology.
Program details for Ph.D. in Computer Science
Degree requirements for the Ph.D. in Computer Science and the Ph.D. minor in Computer Science are listed in the University Graduate School academic bulletin. To review your specific requirements, explore the bulletin.
Curriculum
Ph.D. candidates must complete at least 24 credit hours of computer science courses at the 500 level or higher, excluding certain introductory courses. Six courses are required, each with a minimum grade of B. At least one course must come from Foundations of Computing, one from Computer Systems, and one from either Programming Languages or Intelligent Systems. Foundations options include theory and algorithms, while Computer Systems covers topics like distributed systems and networks. Programming Languages and Intelligent Systems include areas such as language principles, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA in these courses, in addition to meeting the overall graduate school GPA requirement.
Internships
Most of our Ph.D. students gain valuable experience through summer or semester internships with top companies like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft. Whether you're interested in research or software engineering, these opportunities help you build real-world skills and professional connections that support your career goals.
Other opportunities
Other unique IU opportunities include the joint Ph.D. program with cognitive science and the Ph.D. in Computer Science with a Logic Minor or Logic Certificate.
Expand your education by adding a minor
You can choose a closely related field like math, or explore something completely different like music from Indiana University’s broad selection of programs. You could also opt for an internal minor with computer science credits or create your own individualized interdisciplinary minor.
Explore the Ph.D. minors offered by the Luddy School. For minors outside Luddy, check out the offerings from other IU Bloomington schools and colleges.
"The Computer Science department at the Luddy School was a great place for me to start my journey. The resources and support from faculty allowed me to become the researcher I am today!"
Larry Gates Ph.D. in Computer Science
Career outlook
Our Ph.D. graduates build successful careers with top employers like Meta, Microsoft, Apple, Google, Intel, MathWorks, Bosch, and Electronic Arts. Others join research labs such as Sandia National Laboratories or take faculty positions at universities like Carnegie Mellon, Yale, Georgia Tech, Oberlin College, and King Saud University. Some also work in healthcare and research settings like Children's Hospital Los Angeles. Before you take the next step in your career, experience life at Indiana University and enjoy all that Bloomington, one of the nation’s best small cities, has to offer.
Luddy’s career services team and faculty mentors help connect you with internships, job fairs, and biotech and healthcare leaders.
One School. Two Campuses. Infinite Possibilities.
More pathways at Luddy Indianapolis
Explore the Computer Science program available at IU's urban research campus in the heart of downtown Indianapolis.
The Luddy Student Experience
Real Research. Real Experience.
Discover Luddy Research
You'll conduct research in a department with a rich history of innovation, working alongside faculty who are leading advancements in computer science fields like artificial intelligence, machine learning, bioinformatics, databases, programming languages, theory, and security. Plus, you'll have access to U's extensive supercomputer resources.
Advising and Student Resources
Find Extra Help
Whether you’re a Computer Science major or still exploring your options, Luddy School advisors are here to help you navigate degree requirements, seize academic opportunities, and tailor your journey to fit your goals.
International Students
Welcoming Everyone
Many of our graduate students, as well as our faculty, in Computer Science come to Bloomington from outside the United States. Indiana University draws students from around the globe for other programs of study. IU offers many types of support for you and our global community.