PhD in Computer Science (PhD)

The deadline to apply for the Sep 2026 intake is Dec 1, 2026. The tuition fee is 27,366 USD per year.

Graduates are qualified to pursue academic or industry careers in computer science. The programme combines advanced coursework with original research under the supervision of faculty. Students engage in independent research projects and contribute new knowledge to the field. The PhD track prepares candidates for leadership roles in research and development.

The programme requires a total of 136 units, including coursework, research, and dissertation requirements. Students complete a minimum of 60 units of graduate-level course work and 76 units of dissertation research.

Graduates enter roles as researchers, university faculty, or senior technical positions in technology companies.

Applicants must hold a bachelor's or master's degree in computer science or a related field. The GRE is not required. Required documents include transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

The programme totals about 136 credit hours. On-campus, full-time, typically five to six years for the PhD. For international students, tuition is above the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 12% of applicants.

UC Berkeley has 157 years of history and brings together 15 schools and colleges with more than 300 degree programs. Undergraduate students can choose from over 115 degree programs, while graduate students can pursue master’s, professional, and doctoral study. Research spans areas including energy, climate change, healthcare, artificial intelligence, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer treatment, gene editing, robotics, and astronomy. Students can connect academic study with research opportunities and career support through their programs and the Graduate Division.

Campus life combines lectures, performances, athletics, dining, and outdoor spaces, including the redwoods. Students can choose among residence halls, campus apartments, cooperative housing, fraternities and sororities, and off-campus rentals. UC Berkeley Housing serves first-year and transfer students, graduate students, and students with families. International House has supported students and scholars from around the world since 1930, with housing options, social and cultural events, and services for international residents. Dining commons, campus restaurants, cafes, convenience stores, meal plans, and menus give students several ways to manage meals between classes and activities. Berkeley Student Cooperative housing is another option for Berkeley students, with cooperative houses and apartments around campus.