A doctoral programme in computer science based on previous knowledge, education and field experience usually takes 4-5 years to complete and involves independent study and research in a focused area of interest. Doctoral programmes include study and research culminating in a final dissertation.
To pursue a Ph.D. program in computer science, candidates must have a master’s degree in the field. To complete a Ph.D. in computer science, students usually have to devote 3- 5 years. Learners can pursue their studies to general computer science or choose specialization in one of the following areas-
- Algorithms, combinatorics, and optimization
- Human-computer interaction
- Computational biology
- Software engineering
- Language and information technologies
- Robotics
- Machine learning
Why choose a Ph.D in computer science?
Computer science plays more or less significant role in almost every sector today. Professionals having doctorate in computer science hold special advantages. Computer scientists with doctoral degree can initiate their own research-based organizations, or teach at undergraduate, graduate, or masters level. Because of the advanced level of technical knowledge and skills required to supervise large projects and teams, many industry research laboratories require doctoral degrees from employees.
As the need for technical expertise is rapidly growing, employers are looking for doctoral degrees in their minimum hiring requirements even more. In fact, according to projection report of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there may be a 15.3% jump in the number of jobs in CS that will require a doctorate degree by 2022.
A Ph.D in computer science is a rewarding degree that allows students and employees to be more independent and creative in their projects. It provides greater freedom to design products, implement changes and inspire new innovations. Earning a doctorate in computer science opens the path to the high- level academic positions and enables more independent, design- based work.
Career opportunities for computer science Ph.D holders:
Computer science Ph.D holders can choose from a wide variety of careers, from professors and information consultants to game developers. There is a vast range of career options that computer science researchers can choose from. Here is a list of some of these opportunities-
Computer hardware engineer: They design, develop and test various types of technology like computer networks, memory devices, circuit boards, routers, and other hardware.
Computer network architects: Their general work includes designing and constructing communications networks, mainly through local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs). They also manage upgrading of computer hardware such as, adapters, network drivers, routers, and monitor systems in homes and businesses.
Software developers: They primarily design, test, and generate software for customers, businesses, organizations, and local, state, and federal governments. They usually work at computer systems designing firms and software publishers.
System analyst: Their main responsibilities include collecting, analyzing, researching various computer-based data to generate result.
College/university professor of computer science: Computer science Ph.D holders can also work at colleges and universities as lecturers, professors, and researchers.