PhD in Computing and Mathematical Sciences

Tuition comes to 60,816 USD per year; applications for the Sep 2027 intake close on Dec 15, 2026.

The PhD in Computing and Mathematical Sciences at California Institute of Technology is a 4-year program that combines computer science, electrical engineering, applied math, economics, and operations research. This interdisciplinary program is ideal for students who want to explore the intersection of computing and mathematical sciences. The program has a broad collection of world-class faculty who can advise students.

The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including computer science, electrical engineering, and applied mathematics. Students develop skills such as mathematical modeling, computational thinking, and data analysis. The program also provides opportunities for students to engage in research projects and collaborate with faculty members from different disciplines.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Computational Biologists, Data Scientists, Cryptographers, Machine Learning Engineers, or Quantitative Analysts. They can work in industries such as finance, healthcare, technology, or energy, and can be employed by companies like IBM, Intel, or Goldman Sachs.

California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in Pasadena is internationally renowned for its focus on science and engineering and for a research environment that emphasizes discovery and innovation. Founded in 1891, Caltech combines small class sizes with world-class faculty and a culture that encourages independent inquiry. The institute’s achievements in fundamental research and technology transfer make it a top choice for students seeking an intensive STEM education and close mentorship from leading scholars.

Caltech offers a compact, high-impact academic setting where undergraduates and graduate students participate directly in cutting-edge projects across physics, biology, engineering and computation. Research opportunities are abundant and accessible, with students contributing to labs, observatories and centers that address global challenges. The collaborative, interdisciplinary approach cultivates both deep technical expertise and the ability to work across fields.

As a relatively small campus community, Caltech provides strong academic support, mentorship and networking in the greater Los Angeles research ecosystem. For international students drawn to rigorous STEM training, Caltech delivers concentrated resources, hands-on research experiences and pathways to meaningful scientific contribution in industry, academia and public service.