PhD in Computer and Information Sciences (PhD)

For PhD Computer and Information Sciences, tuition is Tuition and fees are subject to change and are determined by the university's Office of the Bursar..

This programme is designed for students with a strong background in computer science who seek advanced research training. It emphasizes original research and scholarly contributions to the field. Students work closely with faculty advisors to develop and complete a dissertation based on independent research. The programme requires a structured course load followed by a qualifying exam and dissertation defense.

The programme requires 48 total credits, with 24 credits from approved coursework and 24 credits from CSCI 800 Dissertation. Students must complete eight courses, including six 600-level and two 700-level courses, with specific exclusions.

Graduates typically pursue academic careers, research positions in industry, or roles in advanced technology development.

Applicants must hold a master's degree in computer science or a related field. A minimum GPA of 3.7 is required in the last 60 credits of undergraduate or graduate study. Required documents include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a CV.

The programme totals about 48 credit hours. On-campus, full-time, typically completed in 5 to 7 years. For international students, tuition is above the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 33% of applicants.

William & Mary has grown into a university with undergraduate and professional programs across the College of Arts & Sciences, Raymond A. Mason School of Business, Batten School of Coastal & Marine Sciences, School of Computing, Data Sciences & Physics, School of Education and Law School. Its academic offering includes more than 115 majors, minors and pre-professional programs, ranging from business analytics and integrative conservation to majors designed by students. Forty-five percent of students major in STEM fields.

Research is a central part of the student experience. William & Mary holds the R1 designation for its research activity, and almost 85% of students take part in faculty-mentored projects. Topics span the humanities, sciences and applied fields, including art, oysters, marine science, history, conservation and particle physics. The university also describes its education as personalized and career-focused, with opportunities connected to internships, career services and science laboratories.

The university is based in Williamsburg, Virginia, with the Sir Christopher Wren Building serving as a setting for major campus events such as Opening Convocation. International students can choose from study abroad opportunities and a wide range of academic fields. The university's schools cover business, coastal and marine sciences, computing, data sciences, physics, education and law, alongside arts and sciences. This range supports students seeking either a focused professional path or a broader interdisciplinary education.