Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Degree in the field of Computer Science

MS and PhD Degrees in the field of Computer Science

Upon completing the MS and PhD degrees in the field of Computer Science, students will be able to:

1. Acquire a solid foundation in Computer Science at graduate level. Students will demonstrate a graduate-level understanding of material across a variety of sub-disciplines, be able to synthesize problem solutions by combining knowledge from different sources, and demonstrate a deep knowledge of sub-area in which they will pursue their thesis.
2. Conduct an independent research program. Students will identify and pose a research problem, place that problem in context within the field's established literature, and conduct an independent investigation that leads to credible scientific results.
3. Demonstrate professional skills in both oral and written communication. Students will write well-organized, coherent technical prose, deliver a professional presentation on par with a solid conference presentation, demonstrate the ability to describe scientific issues and techniques in writing and in presentation, and be able to answer unanticipated technical questions in a public setting.

MS and PhD Degrees in field of Computer Science 

MS Degree Program

MS degree is a thesis master's degree. For general university requirements, please see Thesis Master's Degrees. regulations, and procedures for all graduate programs, please see All Graduate Students. Students who successfully meet first three requirements listed in PhD degree below are awarded Master of Science degree. 

The English Language Proficiency Requirement may be waived for an international student who received a degree from an institution in which English is the official language of communication. Contact the admitting program for more information.

The following language proficiency tests are accepted by Rice graduate programs and will be used to assess English language proficiency. Please note the below scores are the minimum requirement, though some program requirements will be higher.

• The TOEFL IBT Home. A minimum score of 90 is required
• IELTS Indicator. A minimum score of 7 is required.
• Duolingo. A minimum score of 115 is required.

1. Find your graduate program(s) of interest and submit an interest form. Click here for a listing of schools and departments.
2. Research the cost of study and available financial support. Qualified doctoral students often receive tuition waivers and a generous stipend.
3. Look at our facts and stats on admissions, enrollment and degrees awarded.
4. Learn more about research at Rice.
5. Find out what living in Houston is like.