PhD in Computer Science (PhD)

The program admits students on a rolling basis, and tuition is Qualified Ph.D. students can enroll in the Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity to enhance their marketability in the industry..

The program emphasizes research grounded in theoretical foundations and practical application of computing systems. Students develop expertise in analyzing and designing solutions for complex problems in healthcare, cybersecurity, data science, and transportation. Training includes advanced work in programming, data mining, modeling, and algorithm development. Doctoral candidates work closely with faculty advisors on grant-funded research projects.

Focus areas include software engineering, cybersecurity, algorithms and machine learning, data communications, computer systems.

The program requires 72 credit hours, consisting of coursework, dissertation research, and practical training. Up to 24 credits from a relevant master's degree may be transferred.

Graduates pursue careers in academic research, industry research, government agencies, and postdoctoral positions.

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or its international equivalent. A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 is required. The application requires a statement of purpose, autobiographical statement, three letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and a resume.

The programme totals about 72 credit hours. On-campus, full-time. For international students, tuition is well above the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 35% of applicants.

Howard University’s legacy is shaped by academic study, research, and service. Its community includes scholars, student researchers, athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs. The university carries the identity of an HBCU while preparing students for study and careers across a broad range of disciplines. Alumni stories include physicians, astrophysicists, educators, lawyers, public officials, and advocates whose work has reached beyond the campus.

Students can apply to more than 130 areas of study across 14 schools and colleges. Howard offers undergraduate, graduate, professional, and doctoral programs, with fields ranging from the humanities to scientific disciplines. Research and centers address health and medical issues, economic disparities, cybersecurity, nanotechnology, artificial intelligence and machine learning, drug abuse, energy systems, accounting and finance, women’s leadership, and journalism and democracy. The university has also launched an AI certificate program for undergraduate students.

Located in Washington, DC, Howard connects academic life with a city central to American government, public service, journalism, and cultural life. International students should review the university’s range of schools and degree levels carefully, since programs differ across undergraduate, graduate, professional, and doctoral study. Howard’s guiding phrase, “Excellence in Truth and Service,” reflects the university’s emphasis on student success and service to local and global communities.