An online PhD in computer science degree affords students the highest level of knowledge and training needed for a career in computer science. It’s a terrific option for those in the computer science field who want to improve their skills and command higher salaries. By pursuing this degree online, students can save money on tuition and create a schedule that is best suited to their needs.
Why Pursue a Ph.D. in Computer Science?
A Ph.D. in computer science allows you to become a leading researcher and expert in the field. And those who earn this doctorate can pursue some of the top-paying careers in the industry. Moreover, it’s a terminal degree involving independent research in a constantly-evolving field. So whether you want to work in academia or take on a high-level role in technology, a Ph.D. in computer science can get you where you want to be.
Featured Programs
This article will review the 25 best online programs for pursuing a Ph.D. in computer science. We’ll also answer more questions about this degree and discuss the benefits of pursuing your graduate education online.
Online Ph.D. Computer Science Methodology
Tuition varies widely among colleges offering Ph.D. in computer science degrees. However, the ranking methodology for this review is simple. The tuition fees listed in this article are based on in-state graduate tuition per academic year. Note that the costs for out-of-state or online computer science students may differ. All figures come from NCES College Navigator.
The schools are ordered from highest to lowest scores. All of the programs have been accredited by nationally recognized accreditation boards. And each college has been verified as a non-profit institution.
Is It Hard to Get a Ph.D. in Computer Science?
That depends on how you approach it. Computer Science is one of the fastest-growing fields in the world. And those with a Ph.D. in the industry have the chance to work on confounding problems that can have a tremendous impact on society. In addition, they get to work with the most cutting-edge technology in the world. And they can immerse themselves in independent research, exploring new avenues of inquiry.
In general, doctorate programs are rigorous, and the field of computer science is no exception. Students pursuing an online Ph.D. in computer science will no doubt find it challenging.
Whether you pursue software engineering or computer architecture, Ph.D. in computer science programs involve a tremendous amount of research. So you should only pursue this degree if you are incredibly motivated to engage in demanding research. However, those who love the subject matter will find this exploration exhilarating. Many computer science doctoral candidates become subject-matter experts in their particular area of study.
Top Schools With Ph.D. Computer Science Programs
|
School |
Tuition |
Score |
|
Dakota State University |
$5,999 |
100 |
|
University of North Texas |
$6,350 |
99.75 |
|
University of Utah |
$6,970 |
99.50 |
|
University of Idaho |
$7,754 |
99.25 |
|
Mississippi State University |
$8,800 |
99.00 |
|
North Carolina State University |
$9,095 |
98.75 |
| Missouri University of Science and Technology |
$10,452 |
98.50 |
|
Grand Canyon University |
$10,621 |
98.25 |
|
Capitol Technology University |
$11,340 |
98.00 |
|
University of California Berkeley |
$11,442 |
97.75 |
|
University of South Carolina |
$13,734 |
97.50 |
|
Wright State University |
$14,298 |
97.25 |
|
University of Rhode Island |
$14,454 |
97.00 |
|
Northcentral University |
$16,881 |
96.75 |
|
University of Minnesota |
$17,844 |
96.50 |
|
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University |
$18,756 |
96.25 |
|
Nova Southeastern University |
$21,153 |
96.00 |
|
Pennsylvania State University |
$23,189 |
95.75 |
|
Southern Methodist University |
$30,672 |
95.50 |
|
Clarkson University |
$35,712 |
95.25 |
|
University of Pennsylvania |
$38,732 |
95.00 |
|
Syracuse University |
$41,616 |
94.75 |
|
Columbia University |
$50,496 |
94.50 |
|
Boston University |
$58,560 |
94.25 |
|
Johns Hopkins University |
$58,720 |
94.00 |
Ranking the Top Computer Science Programs Online
#1. Dakota State University
Online PhD in Information Systems
Madison, South Dakota
Students at Dakota State University can enroll in an Online Ph.D. in Information Systems degree. In it, students will develop their understanding of major information systems and installations. In addition, they will learn how to maintain these structures to ensure data security. A total of 88 credits are needed to earn the degree. Students can expect to complete this doctoral program in two to three years. This flexible program can be taken full or part-time. And doctoral students can choose between traditional and online instruction.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $5,999
Score: 100
#2. University of North Texas
Online PhD Degree in Computer Science and Engineering
Denton, Texas
University of North Texas students can enroll in the school’s online PhD in Computer Science and Engineering degree. To graduate, doctoral students will need 42 credit hours beyond a master’s or 72 credit hours beyond a bachelor’s degree. Candidates will study advanced topics involving computer science theory, computer hardware, and computer programming. Additionally, candidates will need to choose a topic for research. Candidates will also present an oral exam and written dissertation on the topic to a committee.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $6,350
Score: 99.75
#3. University of Utah
Online PhD Computer Science
Salt Lake City, Utah
At the University of Utah, students can pursue an online PhD in Computer Science degree. A total of 50 credits are needed to complete this computer science program. And students can expect to finish in two to three years. The program is ideal for those currently working in computer science who wish to advance their careers. The University of Utah offers this degree in several specializations. These include computer engineering, human-centered computing, image analysis, and more. This is a highly competitive program with a limited number of openings each year. Financial aid is available.
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Tuition: $6,970
Score: 99.50
#4. University of Idaho
Online PhD in Computer Science
Moscow, Idaho
This online PhD in Computer Science degree is available through the University of Idaho. It is designed for those with a bachelor’s degree in computer science. Students who complete this degree gain significant additional training and expertise. This will prepare them for higher-paying roles in the field. A total of 78 credits are needed to complete this computer science program. Students will work with their academic advisors to develop a plan focusing on their goals and areas of interest.
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Tuition: $7,754
Score: 99.25
#5. Mississippi State University
Online PhD Computer Science
Starkville, Mississippi
Mississippi State University offers an excellent online PhD in Computer Science program. Students who have completed this program have gone on to careers with Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, and other big tech firms. A total of 63 credits are needed to graduate. This degree is offered in several specializations. These include artificial intelligence, computational science, graphics, and more.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $8,800
Score: 99.00
#6. North Carolina State University
Online PhD Computer Science
Raleigh, North Carolina
North Carolina State University students can enroll in a Ph.D. in Computer Science program. A total of 72 credit hours are needed to complete the program. However, those entering with a prior graduate degree may meet those requirements with fewer credits. First, students will take graduate courses in computer theory and computer systems. Then, they will have a preliminary written exam and an oral exam. Finally, they will complete a dissertation and present a defense. A non-thesis option is also available.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $9,095
Score: 98.75
#7. Missouri University of Science and Technology
PhD Computer Science Online
Rolla, Missouri
The Missouri University of Science and Technology offers this next program. It’s a 72-credit Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science. Students in this computer science degree program will work through a curriculum designed to prepare them for high-level careers in the field. By completing this Ph.D in computer science, computer science professionals can command higher salaries. And they can move into roles requiring greater responsibilities. Typically, you will need an MS to enroll. However, in select cases, students may be admitted with an undergraduate degree.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $10,452
Score: 98.50
#8. Grand Canyon University
Online Doctor of Business Administration with Data Analytics Emphasis
Phoenix, Arizona
GCU offers two online DBAs with Data Analytics Emphasis. These doctoral programs prepare students to work in a variety of high-level roles. The first computer science program is the Qualitative Research Program, while the other is a Quantitative Research Program. Each class takes eight weeks and requires 60 credits to complete. For both programs, students will draft a written dissertation to showcase their findings.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $10,621
Score: 98.25
#9. Capitol Technology University
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Technology
Laurel, Maryland
Capitol Technology University offers this next Doctor of Philosophy in Technology degree. Students will work through various topics, including engineering, networking, and more. Candidates will learn how to leverage technologies to create new solutions to computing problems. A total of 60 credits are needed to complete the program. Experts teach courses in the field. And the 100 percent online format makes it one of the most flexible doctoral programs on our list.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $11,340
Score: 98.00
#10. University of California Berkeley
Online PhD Computer Science
Berkeley, California
Students at the Univerity of California Berkely can enroll in the school’s online Ph.D. in Computer Science degree. Through this online Ph.D., students will advance their understanding of complex computer science topics. And their research will make them experts in the field. This computer science program will prepare candidates to advance even further in their careers in industry or academia. A total of 60 credit hours are needed to earn this Ph.D in computer science.
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Tuition: $11,442
Score: 97.75
#11. University of South Carolina
Online PhD Computer Science
Columbia, South Carolina
This online PhD in Computer Science is offered through the University of South Carolina. Students in this degree program will become experts in a variety of computer science-related topics. You’ll study computer architecture, compiler construction, computational theory, and other advanced topics. Students can potentially complete this program in as little as two years. A total of 60 credits are needed to earn the degree. This is a research-based computer science program that prepares graduate students for careers in academia. But this computer science online program also prepares candidates for research and development in labs and industry.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $13,734
Score: 97.50
#12. Wright State University
Online PhD Computer Science
Dayton, Ohio
Wright State University currently offers a Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering. Through this program, graduate students will work through advanced topics in computer science. They will study programming languages, network security, cybersecurity, and other related topics. A total of 60 credits are needed to complete this computer science program. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in CS or a related field is required. Students will also need to provide GRE test scores of 1150 on the old scale or 305 on the new scale.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $14,298
Score: 97.25
#13. University of Rhode Island
Online PhD Computer Science
Kingston, Rhode Island
The University of Rhode Island offers an online PhD in Computer Science degree. This doctoral program is designed to advance a student’s understanding of computer science. Candidates will study programming language semantics, computer algebra, compiler design, and more. A total of 54 credit hours are needed to complete the degree and 18 credits for a dissertation. Students entering with an MS in computer science may apply up to 30 credits toward this computer science program.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Tuition: $14,454
Score: 97.00
#14. Northcentral University
Online PhD in Computer Science
San Diego, California
This next online PhD in Computer Science is offered by Northcentral University. A total of 60 credits are needed to complete the program, and there are 20 online courses in all. The NCU Ph.D. computer science program takes approximately 50 months to complete. This is a highly flexible program with weekly start dates. It is asynchronous, so students can work on assignments on their own schedule. Students will be mentored by doctoral faculty members and have one-on-one time with their instructors.
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Tuition: $16,881
Score: 96.75
#15. University of Minnesota
PhD Computer Science Online
Minneapolis, Minnesota
The University of Minnesota offers this online PhD in Computer Science. Students in the program must complete a total of 55 credits. This includes 24 thesis credits. Students will also need to maintain a GPA of 3.45 or higher. This rigorous program involves oral and written exams, a thesis proposal examination, and more. Students will also complete a final thesis defense. All new students are expected to meet with a graduate program coordinator. Candidates are also expected to find an advisor they can work with by the end of the first year.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $17,844
Score: 96.50
#16. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Online PhD in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Daytona Beach, Florida
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers this next program. It’s a 42-credit PhD in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. The program combines facets of an electrical engineering degree with computer science studies. It primarily focuses on areas of aviation and aerospace cybersecurity. But it also instructs students on next-generation software and hardware solutions. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $18,756
Score: 96.25
#17. Nova Southeastern University
PhD Computer Science Online
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Nova Southeastern University offers a blended PhD in Computer Science degree. The program is primarily online with some face-to-face components. The program teaches skills and expertise for high-level positions in computer science. Courses include Data Communications, Computer Networking, Artificial Intelligence, and more. There are two pathways to complete this program. The first is a BS to Ph.D. track. The second is the MS to Ph.D. track.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $21,153
Score: 96.00
#18. Pennsylvania State University
Online PhD in Computer Science and Engineering
University Park, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University offers an online PhD in Computer Science and Engineering degree. This PhD in computer science program is highly flexible and excellent for working professionals. Students will gain the training needed to advance their computer science careers by completing this program. A total of 60 credits are required to graduate. In addition, all students will need to complete the Research Experience in Computer Science and Engineering course.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $23,189
Score: 95.75
#19. Southern Methodist University
Online PhD in Computer Science
Dallas, Texas
Southern Methodist University offers a Computer Science Ph.D. that takes two to three years to complete. A total of 60 credits are required. To apply, students will need GRE graduate school admission test scores and three letters of recommendation. Students will take advanced coursework in a chosen area of research and complete a qualifying examination. They will also do supervised dissertation research and present a defense at the end of the program.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $30,672
Score: 95.50
#20. Clarkson University
Online PhD in Computer Science
Potsdam, New York
This next online PhD in Computer Science degree is offered by Clarkson University. A total of 90 credits are needed to complete this PhD in computer science. And it takes about three full academic years beyond a bachelor’s degree. However, students who already have a master’s degree can transfer up to 30 credit hours. A cumulative GPA of 3.0 is needed to graduate. Other program requirements include an original research project submitted as a written thesis. It must also be presented orally before a committee.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $35,712
Score: 95.25
#21. University of Pennsylvania
Online PhD Computer and Information Science
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Next up is the University of Pennsylvania. UPenn offers an online Doctoral Program in Computer and Information Science. It is housed at Penn Engineering and requires a total of 60 credit hours. There are several research opportunities with the program. Students in the program work with their mentors on an advanced graduate study focus area of their choosing. Plus, students can also select from several specializations. The most recent specialization is an exciting new concentration called Machine Learning + X.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $38,732
Score: 95.00
#22. Syracuse University
Online PhD in Computer and Information Science
Syracuse, New York
There are two PhD Computer Science programs at Syracuse University. The first is the Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE) PhD. The second is an Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) PhD. Each program requires 52 credits of coursework. Applicants must meet minimum GRE scores to be accepted into these highly selective degree programs.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $41,616
Score: 94.75
#23. Columbia University
PhD Computer Science Online
New York City, New York
This next program is at Columbia University in New York City. It is offered through the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science. This Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science degree is a full-time program. A dissertation based on original research is required. Students engage in coursework and preliminary requirements during the program’s first half. The last half of the program at NY Columbia university is devoted to research.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $50,496
Score: 94.50
#24. Boston University
Online PhD Computer Science
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston University students can enroll in this online PhD in Computer Science degree. Through the program, students will develop an intimate knowledge of the ways computers function. In addition, they will study advanced programming languages and computer sciences. These studies will prepare candidates for careers as computer and data scientists. A total of 64 credits are needed to complete the degree program. In addition, BU requires students to specialize in one of four areas. These include algorithms, systems, software, or theory of computation.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Tuition: $58,560
Score: 94.25
#25. Johns Hopkins University
Online PhD Computer Science
Baltimore, Maryland
Johns Hopkins University students can enroll in the school’s online Ph.D. in Computer Science degree. The program requires a total of 60 credit hours for completion. Those working through the program will become experts in matters related to computer science. They will study topics including computer systems, programming, network design, graphics, cybersecurity, and more. This PhD in computer science program prepares candidates for industry, government, research, and academic careers.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $58,720
Score: 94.00
Online Computer Science Ph.D. Courses
Like most doctoral degree programs, students will typically devote the first few years to required coursework. However, the coursework can vary significantly among schools. So if you have a particular area of interest, check to see if your school offers it. For example, artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly popular area of study. If this interests you, you might want to look for computer science programs offering a specialization in AI.
There is generally a lot of flexibility when selecting classes in a Ph.D. program. You’ll have a set number of credits you must earn, and you’ll need to meet certain standards of academic excellence. And you’ll typically meet with an advisor to devise an academic plan that aligns with your goals. After you finish the coursework, you will likely take an exam. You will usually begin the dissertation process after passing the qualifying exam.
Some schools on this list offer BS to Ph.D. programs. In these online doctoral programs, students will take undergraduate and graduate courses. In MS to Ph.D. programs, students will focus only on graduate-level classes. Some of the required courses for a computer science doctoral program may include:
| Programming Languages | Operating Systems | Design and Analysis of Algorithms | Data Mining |
| Database Management Systems | Software Engineering | Computer Networks | Information Retrieval |
| Search Engine Technology | Distributed Systems | Artificial Intelligence | Mobile Application Development |
| Data Visualization | Computer Graphics | Software Requirements Engineering | Object-Oriented Design |
| Software Testing and Verification | Fundamentals of Cybersecurity | Applied Cryptography | Computer and Network Forensics |
| Advanced Network Security | Compiler Construction | Data Analytics | Program Analysis |
| Mobile Networking | Distributed Systems | Computer Architecture | Fault Tolerant Systems |
| Numerical Linear Algebra | Numerical Optimization Techniques | Concurrent Matrix Computation | Finite Element Methods |
| Probabilistic Algorithms | Natural Language Processing | Pattern Recognition and Machine Learning | Digital Image Processing |
Careers for Computer Science Ph.D. Graduates
A Ph.D. in Computer Science will prepare candidates to work in academia, research organizations, major tech firms, and more. Additionally, one of the largest employers of research scientists in this field is the federal government. Because of your advanced education, you will likely qualify for some of the highest-paying leadership roles in the industry.
The computer and IT field is growing and will continue to expand for the foreseeable future. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 13 percent increase in jobs through 2030. This is faster than the average rate of growth for all industries. Additionally, 667,600 new computer science jobs are expected over the next decade.
What Are the Highest-paying Jobs in Computer Science?
Graduates with a doctoral degree in computer science can land some of the best-paying jobs across all industries. Keep in mind that this salary information is only an average. And it does not account for educational levels. Those with a Ph.D. in the field can (and usually do) earn significantly more. For example, the top 10 percent of computer research scientists earn more than $208,000 a year.
| Role | Average Annual Earnings |
| Computer Research Scientist | $112,000 |
| Computer Network Architect | $112,000 |
| Principal Software Engineer | $149,000 |
| Software Development Director | $163,000 |
| IT Security Architect | $137,000 |
| Cybersecurity Engineer | $113,000 |
| Development Operations (DevOps) Engineer | $118,000 |
| Full Stack Software Engineer | $105,000 |
| Mobile Applications Developer | $101,000 |
| Information Security Officer | $102,000 |
| Salesforce Developer | $109,000 |
| Computer and IT Systems Manager | $146,000 |
| Software Developer | $107,000 |
Why Pursue an Online Ph.D. in Computer Science?
Online education has become the norm for people all over the world. And more reputable colleges and universities than ever before are offering remote degree programs. The flexibility and convenience of online learning platforms put you in control of when and where you complete your doctoral degree. Here are the primary benefits of completing computer science Ph.D. programs online.
1. An Online PhD Gives You More Control Over Your Schedule
Most Ph.D. candidates are busy people. They may already be working demanding jobs with long hours and lots of responsibility. Additionally, they may have family commitments in addition to their professional lives. Attending an on-campus Ph.D. program adds even more to an already packed schedule.
By completing your Ph.D. online, you can often take your classes on your own time when it’s convenient for you. For example, if you choose an online asynchronous program, you can log in any time of the day or night to work on your Ph.D. You can listen to lectures, complete assignments, and even participate in discussions from anywhere.
If you love to travel, you don’t need to put your adventures on hold while you attend school for several years. Instead, remote Ph.D. programs allow prospective computer scientists to study from anywhere in the world. So you could be enjoying the afternoon in the Caribbean while simultaneously studying for your Ph.D. Additionally, some online programs even have flexible start dates. So you can choose to begin when the time is right.
2. Getting a Remote PhD Can Offer a More Personalized Experience
Most students interested in a doctoral degree already have an area of interest they want to focus on. The best online Ph.D. programs will let you choose your area of study and allow you a more personalized learning experience.
In almost all cases, you’ll partner with a mentor or advisor who will help you design a program based on your goals and interests. This way, you can focus on research methods in those areas where you are genuinely passionate.
Your advisor will help you in other ways too. Since they already have experience in online learning, they will help you get set up with the web resources and research portals you need to succeed. This personalized one-on-one support is not always possible in an on-campus program.
3. You’ll Earn the Same Degree as Everyone Else
These days, online Ph.D. programs are identical to those taught on campus. The faculty members for online computer science programs are the same highly respected professors and instructors who teach the on-campus versions of the classes. And they all come from the computer science department.
Additionally, you will earn the same Ph.D. as every other student. The degree is identical, with no mention that you earned it online. And in most cases, you can participate in on-campus commencement ceremonies as well.
4. An Online PhD Can Save You Money
Some online Ph.D. computer science programs offer online students lower tuition fees than if they were to attend on campus. But even if they don’t, there are other ways remote Ph.D. computer science degrees can save you a lot of money.
For starters, you won’t need to commute to and from classes. That’s a relief right away since you are probably already traveling to a job every day. Also, with the cost of inflation, saving money on transportation is a huge plus. Of course, you’ll also save money on food, snacks, parking, clothing, and other incidentals.
Finally, many online computer science degree programs can be completed part-time. This allows prospective students to continue working a regular job, which can keep them financially solvent during school.
5. An Online PhD Increases Your Earning Power
This last benefit is true for all Ph.D. programs, whether online or on campus. Doctoral degrees help people earn more money overall. Having a Ph.D. sets you apart from other potential hires. Employers know you are familiar with advanced research methods and can communicate effectively.
A Ph.D. also demonstrates your commitment to your field. But an online doctorate in computer science demonstrates you are self-motivated and can work independently. In addition, it shows others that you know how to manage your time and yourself efficiently.
This concludes our ranking of the top online PhD programs in computer science.
NPCO Staff
See Also:
Best Online Masters In Computer Science
50 Most Affordable Master’s In Data Science Online And On-Campus
Highest Paying Doctoral Programs
