Computer Science

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The PhD in Computer Science program consists of 60 graduate-level semester credit hours, of which 12 are Program Core, 24 are Research Core, 16 are Concentration, and 8 are Dissertation. Admitted students must declare a concentration. The program includes 4 concentrations: (1) Theory of Programming Languages, (2) Information Security Planning and Policy, (3) Management of AI Technologies, and (4) Software Engineering. The program may be completed entirely on campus, or through a combination of on-campus and online courses.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

The Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science is a pinnacle academic degree for those looking to advance in the technology sector. Graduates will possess advanced knowledge essential for leading roles as technology innovators, high-level consultants, and educators in the tech field. They will apply this knowledge to tackle complex tech challenges, demonstrating their expertise through significant research on cutting-edge technology topics of their interest. The central goal of the PhD program is to train students to perform original, independent research. The most important part of the curriculum is the successful defense of a PhD Dissertation, which demonstrates this research ability. The academic requirements are designed to serve this goal and cater to the evolving demands of the tech industry. The Computer Science PhD program empowers individuals to lead with innovation, offering the tools and insights needed to make significant contributions to technology and society. This program may be completed with a minimum of 45 credit hours, but may require additional credit hours, depending on the time required to complete the dissertation/publication research. Students who are not prepared to defend after completion of the 45 credits will be required to enroll in PHD-990, a one-credit, eight-week continuation course. Students are required to be continuously enrolled/registered in the PHD-990 course until they complete their dissertation defense.

CREDIT FOR PRIOR LEARNING

Belcroft University does not accept prior learning experience, professional training, or experiential learning toward fulfillment of degree requirements at the doctoral level. The PhD curriculum ensures advanced, research-based study and acquisition of original scholarly competencies beyond prior graduate preparation. All students must complete the full prescribed course of study. as outlined in the approved curriculum. Transfer or experiential credit is not applicable to any component of the PhD degree.

DEGREE OUTCOMES

Upon completion of the program, a doctorate in the Computer Science concentration will be able to:

Explain theories, applications, and perspectives related to computer science.
Proficiency in critical thinking (including social impact).
Demonstrate the use of computing systems, theory and software engineering to solve theoretical and applied problems.
Evaluate theories of ethics and risk management in computers and emerging technologies.
Communicate computer science research results effectively in both publications and professional presentations.
Demonstrate the highest mastery of Computer Science.
Evaluate complex problems, synthesize alternative perspectives and ideas fully, and develop advanced solutions to Computer Science challenges.
As a technology visionary in Computer Science, help lead innovation in a growing industry and brighten your future. Trust Belcroft University to help you achieve it.

CAREER OPTIONS

Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this program. PhD in Computer Science degree can academically prepare you to pursue career options such as:

WORK SETTINGS

PhD in Computer Science degree can academically prepare you to work in settings such as:

PROGRAM ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Completed PhD Admissions Application and Application Fee of $50.
Master’s degree in a related field from an accredited college or university in the United States or degree equivalent to a U.S. master’s degree (outside U.S.) i.e. Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Electronics & Communications, Electrical Engineering, Robotics Engineering, Cyber Security, Communications Engineering, Data Science, Computer Applications, Computer Engineering, or work experience in related fields.
A master’s degree is not mandatory for admission to the PhD program. Strong applicants with a Bachelor’s degree with relevant work experience are encouraged to apply directly for admission to the PhD program. A Bachelor’s degree with sufficient additional courses required to secure a Master’s degree, on the way to a Ph.D.
Admission to the program requires a minimum graduate cumulative grade-point average of 3.0.
Official transcripts are required. The prospective student must arrange to have an evaluation of your foreign transcript by one of the recognized Education evaluation companies. The cost for foreign transcript evaluation is the responsibility of the student.
Professional Resume.
A Statement of Purpose (Need to write a statement detailing your research interests, career goals, and academic and research achievements)
Proof of English Language Proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/PTE/Duolingo Score Report). Non-native English speakers who did not complete post-secondary education exclusively in the English language must provide proof of English language proficiency
Proof of funds.
A completed Application for Graduate Assistantship, if you are interested in receiving funding.

PROGRAM OUTLINE

The PhD in Computer Science program requires completion of the following 60 credit hours

Program Core: 12 credits
Research Core: 24 credits
Concentration Core: 16 credits
Dissertation: 8 credits

PROGRAM CORE COURSES

CS 720: Theory of Computation
CS 730: Computer Networks
CS 740: Advanced Object-Oriented Programming

RESEARCH CORE COURSES

PHD 810: Research Methodology I Qualitative, Quantitative
PHD 820: Research Methodology II Mixed Research Methods
PHD 830: Research Methodology III Writing the Literature Review
PHD 840: Writing a Research Proposal
PHD 850: Research Data Analysis Techniques
PHD 860: Applied Research Seminar

CONCENTRATION CORE COURSES

CS 850: Theory of Programming Languages
CS 860: Information Security Planning and Policy
CS 870: Management of AI Technologies
CS 880: Software Engineering

DISSERTATION

PHD 910: Dissertation I
PHD 950: Dissertation II
PHD 990: Continuous Enrollment