Ph.D. in Computer Science & Systems

All students admitted to the Ph.D. program are expected to have competency in the following areas:

•  Object-Oriented Programming (equivalent to TCSS 142, TCSS 143 and TCSS 305)
•  Discrete Mathematics (equivalent to TCSS 321)
•  Data Structures (equivalent to TCSS 342)
•  Algorithms (equivalent to TCSS 343)
•  Program Management/Software Engineering (equivalent to TCSS 360)
•  Computer Organization (equivalent to TCSS 371)
•  Computer Architecture (equivalent to TCSS 372)
•  Calculus
•  Science (Physics preferred)

The Ph.D. in CSS curriculum includes courses in traditional areas of computer science, such as advanced algorithms and distributed computing, as well as courses and a doctoral thesis in high demand fields where SET’s faculty have strong expertise, such as machine learning, cryptography, cloud computing, and bioinformatics.

To earn the Ph.D. in CSS, students must complete 90 credits as follows:

• 40 credits required to obtain the MS CSS degree with a master thesis option, including:
  • TCSS 543 Advanced Algorithms or TCSS 540 Theory of Computing (5 credits)
  • TCSS 558 Applied Distributed Computing (5 credits)
  • TCSS 598 Master Seminar in CSS (5 credits)
  • 15 credits of 500-level TCSS elective courses (510 or above; see course catalog)
  • TCSS 700 Master’s Thesis (10 credits)
• 20 credits of 500-level TCSS elective courses, choses from at least 3 different concentration tracks
• 30 credits of doctoral dissertation TCSS 800

In addition, Ph.D. candidates need to successfully pass:

• General examination
• Final examination

Learning Goals

The Ph.D. in Computer Science and Systems program prepares students for a research career in industry or academia. Graduates of the Ph.D. in Computer Science and Systems program have a broad, comprehensive knowledge of computer science core areas, including algorithms and architecture. They have deep knowledge and expertise in a specific area of computer science research that enables them to create solutions that can change the world.

Learning Outcomes

Ph.D. CSS graduates are scholars and contributors to local growth and use-inspired innovation. They possess advanced computing knowledge, critical thinking skills. Through inquiry, questioning and abstraction towards tool development, they contribute to theoretical advances in chosen areas interest.

Upon successful completion of the Ph.D. in Computer Science and Systems program, graduates will be able to:

• Read, understand, and evaluate professional literature on advanced topics in computer science.

• Use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice.

• Independently conduct original research by identifying important computer science problems (e.g. performing a gap analysis), developing solutions through creative problem-solving and rigorous design, designing and performing experimental evaluation, and conducting rigorous analyses of results.

• Communicate computer science concepts in verbal and written forms to effectively disseminate results to a technical audience.

Find current tuition information on the UW Tacoma's Office of the Registrar site, under Tier III. Note that costs are different for Washington State Resident and Non-Resident, as shown in the tuition tables.

Most applicable fees are included in the listed tuition rate, but some courses will require additional fees.

Applications are accepted through the UW Graduate School. The process includes:

• Creating or updating your graduate applicant profile (one profile for all program applications)
• Making sure required documents have been submitted
• Paying the application fee

For more details, see SET Graduate Program Application Process.

If you're interested in applying for the Ph.D. in CSS, or have any questions, please reach out to your Graduate Advisor, Rachel Crook. 

Schedule an in-person or virtual advising appointment

Dr. Ankur Teredesai - CSS Graduate Committee Chair