Ph.D. in Computer Science

The Ph.D. in Computer Science at Mississippi State University is designed to cultivate scholars who can lead research teams and engage in advanced computer science pedagogy. This program offers two pathways: a Direct Admit option for students with a B.S. and an M.S. Admit option for those with a previous M.S. degree, which can also be pursued online. The curriculum consists of 63 credit hours, typically completed over four years, with a focus on core, specialization, and elective courses. Students are required to pass three key examinations: the Qualifying Exam, Proposal Defense, and Dissertation Defense, which assess their mastery of the subject and readiness for research. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia and industry, with alumni securing positions at leading companies such as Microsoft, Google, and NASA. The program emphasizes research development, requiring students to work closely with a major professor and a graduate committee throughout their studies.