Program Overview
Stevens Institute of Technology's full-time Computer Science Doctoral Program provides full financial support and prepares students to excel in cutting-edge research areas like AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity. Graduates are highly sought after in academia, corporations, government agencies, and financial institutions.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Computer Science Doctoral Program at Stevens Institute of Technology is a full-time program designed for students who want to make a lasting impact in fields like machine learning, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. The program provides full financial support through teaching/research assistantships and fellowships, allowing students to immediately dive into rigorous research. Students work under the guidance of expert faculty, including renowned researchers in their respective fields. Graduates go on to successful careers in academia, corporations, government agencies, and financial institutions.
Outline:
The program curriculum is comprehensive and covers a wide range of cutting-edge research areas, including:
- AI and Machine Learning: Students have the opportunity to learn from leading experts in AI and machine learning research and their applications in data science and robotics.
- Computer Vision: The program offers research opportunities in visual computing, including 3D computer vision.
- Big Data Analytics: Students can explore research in data management and exploration on the web.
- Programming Languages: The program covers principles of programming languages, concurrent programming, and compiler design.
- Computer Security and Cryptography: Students can delve into research in secure systems, cryptography, and privacy in a networked world.
- Software Systems: The program includes research opportunities in distributed systems, cloud computing, and mobile systems and applications.
Degree Requirements:
To earn a Ph.D. in Computer Science, students must fulfill the following requirements:
- Advancement to "Ph.D. Student" status: This is achieved by satisfying a certain breadth course requirement.
- Advancement to "Ph.D.
- Candidate" status: This is achieved by passing a qualifying examination.
- Submission of a doctoral dissertation: This involves satisfying a thesis proposal defense and thesis defense.
- Completion of the Doctoral Signature Credit Seminar (PRV 961): This seminar must be completed before the thesis proposal.
- Earning 84 credits: This includes graduate credits beyond the bachelor's degree.
Breadth Requirement:
Students must complete three doctoral-level courses from a list of approved courses covering two thematic categories: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, and Systems, Languages, and Cybersecurity.
Qualifying Examination:
The qualifying exam consists of two parts:
- Oral Part: An oral examination on a syllabus of research papers prepared jointly by the student and a committee.
- Written Part: Earning a grade of B+ or better in CS 601 "Algorithmic Complexity."
Thesis Proposal and Advisory Committee:
Students must write and present a thesis proposal, outlining their intended research for their dissertation. The proposal is reviewed by a thesis advisory committee, which will also form the student's dissertation defense committee.
Doctoral Dissertation Defense:
The dissertation defense follows Stevens-wide procedures, including committee composition. At least one manuscript based on dissertation work must be published in peer-reviewed conference proceedings or journals at the time of the defense.
Transferred Graduate Credits:
Students with a master's degree in computer science or a related field may be granted up to 30 credits towards their Ph.D. degree.
Graduate Credit Requirement:
The 84 required credits can be earned through a combination of classroom courses, guided research participation, and prior M.Sc. degree credits.
Assessment:
The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including:
- Coursework: Students are assessed through exams, assignments, and projects.
- Qualifying Examination: This exam assesses the student's knowledge and understanding of the field.
- Thesis Proposal: This proposal is evaluated by a committee for its feasibility and potential impact.
- Doctoral Dissertation: The dissertation is evaluated by a committee for its originality, significance, and contribution to the field.
Teaching:
The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures: Faculty deliver lectures to convey core concepts and theories.
- Seminars: Students engage in discussions and presentations on current research topics.
- Research Projects: Students conduct independent research under the guidance of faculty advisors.
Careers:
Graduates of the Computer Science Doctoral Program at Stevens are well-prepared for a variety of career paths, including:
- Academia: Faculty positions at universities and colleges.
- Industry: Software engineers, research scientists, and data scientists at leading companies.
- Government: Research positions at government agencies and laboratories.
- Finance: Data scientists and analysts at financial institutions.
Other:
- The program offers advanced interdisciplinary research opportunities.
- Stevens' location in Hoboken, New Jersey, provides access to lucrative collaborations and employment opportunities at universities, corporations, and agencies in the New York City area.
- The program fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.
Stevens Institute of Technology
Overview:
Stevens Institute of Technology is a student-centric research university with a strong focus on technology. Located in Hoboken, New Jersey, Stevens offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across diverse fields, including technology, finance, medicine, energy, engineering, art, and music.
Services Offered:
Stevens provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Resources:
Access to libraries, tutoring services, and academic advising.Student Support:
Counseling and psychological services, student health services, and disability services.Career Development:
Career center resources, internship opportunities, and job placement assistance.Student Life:
A vibrant campus experience with clubs, organizations, athletics, arts, and cultural events.Housing:
On-campus housing options for students.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Stevens offers a dynamic campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a variety of clubs, organizations, and athletic teams. The campus is located across the river from New York City, providing easy access to the city's cultural and entertainment offerings.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Innovation and Technology Focus:
Stevens is known for its emphasis on innovation and technology, preparing students for careers in cutting-edge fields.Industry Connections:
Strong industry partnerships and internship opportunities provide students with valuable real-world experience.Location:
The campus's proximity to New York City offers students access to a wide range of career opportunities and cultural experiences.Return on Investment:
Stevens consistently ranks high in return on investment rankings, indicating the value of its education.Academic Programs:
Stevens offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Study:
35 undergraduate majors across various disciplines.Graduate Study:
58 master's degree programs and 20 Ph.D. programs.Stevens Online:
Online degree programs for working professionals.Corporate Education:
Programs designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers.Other:
Stevens is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and has a strong focus on sustainability. The university also has a rich history and a strong alumni network.
Entry Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.
- Official college transcripts: Applicants must submit official transcripts from all institutions attended.
- Two letters of recommendation: Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with their academic abilities.
- Resume or curriculum vitae: Applicants must submit a resume or curriculum vitae outlining their academic and professional experience.
- Statement of purpose: Applicants must submit a statement of purpose outlining their academic goals, research interests, and reasons for applying to the program.
- For international students:
- TOEFL/IELTS score: International students must submit an excellent TOEFL or IELTS score.
- GRE or GMAT score: A competitive GRE or GMAT score is required for both part-time and full-time applicants.
- Writing sample: Applicants must submit a writing sample, such as a journal or conference publication, thesis, or research reports.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- International students: International students must submit an excellent TOEFL or IELTS score.
