phd computer science wisconsin

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PhD in Computer Science

Earn a phd in computer science in milwaukee, wisconsin.

The growth of the computing field has created a huge demand for highly specialized skilled researchers and workers in the areas of software engineering, data science and analytics, big data, privacy and security, internet of things, bioinformatics, mHealth (mobile health) and many other related areas.

The PhD program in computer science at Marquette University prepares students for careers in research, industry, research laboratories, and institutions of higher education. The program allows students to tailor coursework based on their interests and strengths. The program places particular emphasis on students contributing to applied research in computer science. Expand all   |   Collapse all  

Program Highlights

The key features of this program include the interdisciplinary research opportunities in various research areas such as bioinformatics, data science, health informatics and computer education, our faculty members have strong collaborations across departments, colleges within Marquette and other institutions in the area, and the Northwestern Data Science Institute offering industry collaboration opportunities.

Learning Outcomes

• Survey, synthesize and evaluate research publications in their selected research area.
• Propose a research problem and novel solutions that contribute to the advancement of knowledge.
• Design and execute original research that results in a major written scholarly work.
• Communicate the results of research effectively both in written and oral formats.

The program includes 45 credits of coursework and 12 dissertation credits. Student will be able to complete the program on a full-time basis in four to five years.

Students are generally fully funded through research assistantships and teaching assistantships as long as they maintain good standing within the program.

Career Opportunities

A PhD in computer science from Marquette University will produce graduates with state-of-the-art knowledge and competitive research capabilities in computer science professions.

Students successfully completing the PhD program are prepared to meet the demands for highly specialized research-scholars in areas related to computer science such as big data, data science, bioinformatics, computer security and systems in academic positions as well as careers in local or national industrial or government research laboratories and non-profit or policy institutes. 

Our Ph.D. in computer science program is a STEM-designated program, which means international students are eligible to apply for 36 months of Optional Practical Training, allowing employers to potentially hire international students for up to three years instead of only one.

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Ready to learn more about Marquette's PhD in computer science?  Request more information now  or   schedule a campus visit.

Graduate Program Recruiter

phone: (414) 288-7139

email:  [email protected]

Email the Graduate School

To be eligible for admission to the Graduate School at Marquette University, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or international equivalent must be completed prior to starting graduate school.
• A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.
• Demonstrated English proficiency for non-U.S. citizens.
• A bachelor's degree in a computer science related discipline is required.

Application Requirements

Read all   application instructions   prior to beginning an application.

• A completed online application form and fee
• If coursework was completed within the United States, submit copies of all current and previous college/universities except Marquette 1
• If coursework was completed outside of the United States, a transcript evaluation is required. A copy of a course-by-course evaluation is approved for the application process. 2
• Three   letters of recommendation   addressing the applicant's academic qualifications for graduate study in the intended program
• GRE scores   (general test only) Although normally required, the GRE is optional for students applying for the 2023-24 Academic Year.
• For international applicants only:   TOEFL score or   other acceptable proof   of English proficiency
• English-language publications authored by the applicant, including a master's thesis or essay, if applicable (optional, but strongly recommended)
• Statement of purpose outlining relevant education or work experience, career goals, possible areas of interest, and reasons for seeking admission to this program

1 Upon admission, final official transcripts from all previously attended colleges/universities, with certified English translations if original language is not English, must be submitted to the Graduate School within the first five weeks of the term of admission or a hold preventing registration for future terms will be placed on the student’s record. 

2Upon admission, an official course-by-course transcript/academic record evaluation must be submitted to the Graduate School within the first five weeks of the term of admission or a hold preventing registration for future terms will be placed on the student’s record. 

January 15: Priority deadline for admission and merit-based aid consideration for the fall term. After the priority deadline, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as space permits and may be submitted any time before the following dates:

• Fall term admissions- August 1 (June 1 for international applicants)

Study with a collective computer science faculty

Marquette computer science faculty members have expertise in some of the most sought-after areas of computer science research such as systems, algorithms, machine learning, data science and security. Many faculty members are recognized as leading researchers both nationally and internationally in their areas. The collective faculty expertise combined with the expertise of other faculty members from other disciplines across campus will produce doctoral graduates with cross-training, critical thinking and computational skills.

Computer Science Faculty

For financial aid opportunities, please email Dr. Praveen Madiraju , graduate chair of the Department of Computer Science.

Program Snapshot

Application Deadline: January 15 

Full-Time: Yes | Online Options: No

STEM OPT Eligible

Computer Science Department

Program Course Work

Tuition Cost Per Credit:  $1,360.00 Other costs exist, see here.

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• University of Wisconsin-Madison

DEGREE Electrical and Computer Engineering, PhD

Doctoral degree in electrical and computer engineering

As a PhD student in electrical and computer engineering, you can engage in creative approaches to solving problems through research in any of several cross-cutting areas of your choosing- among them, data science, healthcare, mobile computing, security and infrastructure resilience, sensors and sensing, and sustainability. Within those cross-cutting areas, you’ll be able to specialize in areas that include applied electromagnetics and acoustics; communications, networks, privacy and security; solid-state electronics and quantum technologies; machine learning, signal processing and information theory; computer systems and architecture; plasma science and fusion energy; energy systems; optics and photonics, and optimization and control.

At a glance

Electrical and computer engineering department, learn more about what information you need to apply., how to apply.

Please consult the table below for key information about this degree program’s admissions requirements. The program may have more detailed admissions requirements, which can be found below the table or on the program’s website.

Graduate admissions is a two-step process between academic programs and the Graduate School. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements of the Graduate School as well as the program(s). Once you have researched the graduate program(s) you are interested in, apply online .

Admissions Process

A submitted online  application  is required, consisting of:

• Statement of purpose; see the suggested guidelines provided by the Graduate School
• The supplemental application section that identifies their research interest area
• Most up to date unofficial transcript(s) from all previous higher education institutions, regardless of whether or not a degree was earned (official transcripts are requested of only recommended applicants); international academic records must be in the original language accompanied by an official English translation.
• Payment of the one-time application fee of $75.00, plus the $6.00 international processing fee if applicable; this fee is non-refundable. It can be paid by credit card (MasterCard or Visa).
• Test scores and three letters of recommendation as detailed above.

Applications must be entirely complete by the deadline, including test scores and letters of recommendation. Note that it is highly advised to take the GRE and English proficiency tests well in advance of the application deadline in order to ensure time for receiving and processing of the scores. Do not mail any paper copies of application materials, except IELTS scores. They will not be reviewed.

Information for international students, including proof of funding and visa information, can be found on the International Student Services website .

By Wisconsin state law, the application fee can only be waived or deferred under the conditions outlined by the Graduate School .

The department welcomes applications from scientific, engineering, and mathematical disciplines other than Electrical and Computer Engineering. Applicants with a bachelor’s degree may apply directly to the PhD program.

English Competency for Non-Native English Speakers

Effective written and oral communication is vital for a successful academic career. International students whose native language is not English will be required to take the English as a Second Language Assessment Test (ESLAT), offered by the English as a Second Language (ESL) Program.

The ESLAT must be taken as soon as the student arrives at the university. The test is offered in the Fall and Spring during the week before the beginning of instruction. The  ESL home page   has more information.

Based on ESLAT performance, specific ESL courses may be recommended. These courses must be taken and passed within 12 months of the ESLAT. Otherwise, the student will not be permitted to register during the third semester after entering the graduate program. Any ESL courses numbered 300 or above can be counted towards graduate degree requirements but not toward E C E course requirements. Completion of ESLAT and recommended courses is also a requirement for graduation of an international student whose native language is not English.

Students are exempt from taking the ESLAT if:

• English is the exclusive language of instruction at the undergraduate institution; or
• they have earned a degree from a regionally accredited US college or university not more than 5 years prior to the anticipated semester of enrollment; or
• they have completed at least two full-time semesters of graded course work, exclusive of ESL courses, in a US college or university, or at an institution outside the US where English is the exclusive language of instruction, not more than 5 years prior to the anticipated semester of enrollment.

Reentry Admissions

If you were previously enrolled as a graduate student at UW–Madison, but have had a break in enrollment for at least one fall or spring semester, you will need to apply to resume your studies.

For applicants previously enrolled in a graduate program other than Electrical and Computer Engineering, you must complete a  new   online application, including all materials, for admission.

For applicants previously enrolled in Electrical and Computer Engineering as a graduate student, you must complete a  reentry   application. Reentry applicants may apply for the fall term with a deadline of June 1.

In order to apply as a reentry applicant, you must:

• Complete the online application , including the personal information section, program and term selection, and supplementary application;
• Statement of Purpose
• Any new unofficial transcripts from previous higher education institutions
• Three letters of recommendation if the break in enrollment equals or is greater than four semesters (fall, spring). Letters of recommendation should be emailed directly from the recommender.

Current Graduate Student Admissions

Students currently enrolled as a graduate student at UW-Madison, whether in or other than Electrical and Computer Engineering, wishing to apply to this degree program should contact the Electrical and Computer Engineering Graduate Admissions Team ( [email protected] ) to inquire about the process and respective deadlines several months in advance of the anticipated enrollment term. Current students may apply to change or add programs for any term (fall, spring, or summer).

Review the frequently asked questions answered by the Graduate School  here . 

If you have any admissions questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Electrical and Computer Engineering Graduate Admissions Team at  [email protected] .

Tuition and funding

Tuition and segregated fee rates are always listed per semester (not for Fall and Spring combined).

Graduate School Resources

Resources to help you afford graduate study might include assistantships, fellowships, traineeships, and financial aid.  Further funding information is available from the Graduate School. Be sure to check with your program for individual policies and restrictions related to funding.

Program Resources

PhD students entering the program in Fall 2019 or later will receive a financial support package at the time of admission that may include some combination of research and teaching assistantships, internal and external fellowships, and/or other sources. 

Research Assistantships (RA)

Students should contact professors in their area of interest. Professors decide whom they will appoint on their research grants.

Teaching Assistantships (TA) and Grader Positions

Current graduate students may apply for teaching assistantships or  hourly grader positions via the  ECE TA/Grader Portal  (must have a NetID to access).  If you are interested in applying for TA or grader position in a department other than ECE, please contact the respective department to ask about their own application process. Students currently holding a research assistant or fellowship position that are interested in teaching assistant positions should discuss options with their research advisor(s) before applying. 

International students who are non-native English speakers are required to pass the  SPEAK Test  through the English as a Second Language Program on campus. Students wishing to take the SPEAK Test should contact the ECE TA Coordinator via e-mail to register for the exam.

Project Assistantships  (PA)

There are project assistant opportunities on campus for various purposes and departments and offices. Often announcements of openings are posted on TA/PA bulletin boards in Engineering Hall and on the  UW Job Center webpage . You may also contact individual faculty members to inquire about possible opportunities. 

Fellowships

Information concerning fellowships is sent to graduate students via email from the department, faculty, and/or the Graduate School.

Ranked 6th in the national research category for public universities by the National Science Foundation, UW-Madison continues to be a leader of exploration and discovery. The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is a proud part of that reputation of research excellence, boasting award-winning faculty, advanced facilities and laboratories, and a culture of creativity, innovation and diligence.

View our research

Curricular Requirements

Minimum graduate school requirements.

Review the Graduate School minimum  academic progress and degree requirements , in addition to the program requirements listed below.

Required Courses

Research, independent study, coop, or seminar credits (e.g.,  E C E 610 , E C E 611 , E C E 699 , E C E 702 , E C E 790 , E C E 890 , E C E 990 , E C E 999 , E C E/​N E/​PHYSICS  922 ) may not be used to satisfy this requirement.

Electrical and Computer Engineering courses used to satisfy minor requirements may not be used to satisfy this requirement.

Seminar Requirement

All on-campus Electrical and Computer Engineering graduate students must register for E C E 610 Seminar in Electrical and Computer Engineering during their first semester of graduate studies.  PhD degree seeking students must take 1 credit of E C E 610 in the fall semester of which they are entering the program and 2 credits of E C E 611 Introduction to Doctoral Research in Electrical & Computer Engineering in the following spring semester. This requirement must be done in the PhD student’s first year.

The purpose of E C E 610 is to prepare students for success in graduate school and expose them to areas within Electrical and Computer Engineering as well as related fields outside of Electrical and Computer Engineering, such as biotechnology, physics, computer science, mathematics, or business. Electrical and Computer Engineering is very interdisciplinary in nature, and so it is important for students to be aware of advanced research and development in areas other than their own.

The purpose of  E C E 611  is to emphasize research experiences and methodologies to prepare students to pursue PhD research work.

ECE Graduate Admissions [email protected] 3182 Mechanical Engineering 1513 University Ave, Madison, WI 53706

ECE Graduate Student Services 3182 Mechanical Engineering 1513 University Ave, Madison, WI 53706

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UW-Milwaukee Academic Catalog

Computer science.

Computer Science, MS

The MS in Computer Science program is a rigorous graduate program designed to meet the needs of any student wishing to gain advanced understanding of the principles and practices needed to harness the power of computing to help society and the world.  The program can be a stepping stone on the way to further studies and the pursuit of advanced research, such as can be obtained by pursuing the PhD. Or the program can provide a pathway to professional advancement through greater technical knowledge and intellectual maturity.

The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) degree offers a regular track and a professional track. The regular track is designed to prepare students for PhD research in Computer Science. The professional track is designed to prepare students, possibly with undergraduate majors other than computer science, for success in their industrial careers. Students in the professional track are not eligible for financial aid from Computer Science department.

MSCS Regular Track

The professional track, requirements, admission requirements , credits and courses, additional requirements, application deadlines.

Application deadlines vary by program, please review the application deadline chart for specific programs. Other important dates and deadlines can be found by using the One Stop calendars .

An applicant must meet Graduate School requirements to be considered for admission. Additionally, the applicants must meet either of the following program requirements:

• Undergraduate major in Computer Science.
• Satisfactory completion of two programming courses (such as COMPSCI 250  and COMPSCI 251 ); at least 6 additional credits of coursework in CS; and one course in calculus (such as MATH 211  or MATH 231 ).

Applicants without sufficient Computer Science background are encouraged to apply to the professional track. Applicants not admitted to the regular track may be offered admission to the professional track instead. Applicants may be admitted with specific program-defined course deficiencies provided that the deficiencies amount to no more than two courses. The student is expected to satisfy deficiency requirements within three enrolled semesters. The deficiencies are monitored by the Graduate School and the individual graduate program unit. No course credits earned in making up deficiencies may be counted as program credits required for the degree.

The student must have taken five Computer Science courses (specified below) or their equivalents prior to completion of the MS Program. Appropriate courses taken by a student in another program that are considered equivalent to the courses below can be used to satisfy this requirement with the approval of the Department. The five courses are:

All students must submit an approved Undergraduate Requirements Assessment (which explains how the requirement will be met) prior to registering for any courses.

The students in the regular track must write a thesis or complete a capstone project.

Thesis Option

The minimum credit requirement is 30, comprising:

Excluding COMPSCI 990 .

All courses must be approved in the Program of Study, which must not include any more than one credit of COMPSCI 870 . The student must not register for more than 4 credits of  COMPSCI 990  in any one semester. The student must write an acceptable thesis under the supervision of a faculty advisor and pass a final comprehensive examination, which will normally focus on the thesis. Once a student begins a thesis under the supervision of an advisor, the graduate program director must approve any change to a new thesis advisor.

Capstone Option

The minimum credit requirement is 31, comprising:

The student must complete a capstone project under the supervision of a faculty advisor and pass  COMPSCI 995  with a grade of B or better. COMPSCI 700 may be used as a substitute for EAS 701 , but may not otherwise be used to meet credit requirements. EAS 702 may not be used to meet credit requirements. No more than one credit in   COMPSCI 870 can be used to satisfy program requirements.

An applicant must meet Graduate School requirements to be considered for admission. We expect that students admitted to the professional track will have knowledge of computer programming to the extent of COMPSCI 250  and COMPSCI 251 . Applicants can demonstrate this knowledge via academic coursework or online courses. Applicants can also explain in their Statement of Purpose if they gained this knowledge via work experience. All admitted students are assigned a placement level concerning their knowledge of computer programming. The students may be required to take COMPSCI 250 and/or  COMPSCI 251  (or equivalents) based on their placement level.

The student must demonstrate knowledge equivalent to the following four Computer Science courses prior to completion of the MS Program:

This requirement can be met in one of the following ways:

• A grade of "C-" or better in these courses or equivalent CompSt courses.
• Passing the sufficiency exams offered by the department.
• Prior academic coursework approved by the academic advisor (not available for COMPSCI 351 ).

Graduate credits earned while taking these courses as a graduate student may be used to meet the credit requirements of the program. All students must submit an approved Undergraduate Requirements Assessment (which explains how the requirement will be met) prior to registering for any courses.

The minimum credit requirement is 31 graduate credits, comprising:

Up to 12 credits of prior graduate-level course work (including up to 6 credits of prior graduate-level Computer Science courses) can be used to meet the credit requirements. COMPSCI 700 may be used as a substitute for EAS 701 , but may not otherwise be used to meet credit requirements. EAS 702 may not be used to meet credit requirements. No more than one credit in  COMPSCI 870 may be used to meet the requirements. All courses must be approved in the Program of Study. Any non-CompSci courses must be approved prior to registration.

Industrial Internship

With faculty advisor’s approval, one credit per semester of COMPSCI 999  may be satisfied with a supervised industrial internship for a maximum of three credits.

Major Professor as Advisor

The student is assigned an initial faculty advisor at the time of admission. The student selects a faculty member as a thesis or capstone advisor, respectively, as they follow the regular or professional track, after consultation with that faculty member. Any change in faculty advisor requires the documented permission of the new faculty member and the Department. An initial Program of Study with student, advisor and Department approval should be completed prior to the completion of 9 credits in the program. The final Program of Study must be approved by the thesis or capstone advisor, as appropriate.

Switching between Tracks

A student in the regular track may switch to the professional track at any time. However, such a student will no longer be eligible for research/teaching/project assistantships or any other financial aid from the Computer Science department. A student switching to the professional track may need to take the equivalent of COMPSCI 351 . A student admitted under the professional track may switch to the regular track after completing at least 9 credits of 700-level CompSci courses or COMPST 751 with at least 3.5 cumulative GPA. Note that not all courses acceptable under the professional track may be acceptable under the regular track.

Financial Aid

Students enrolled in the professional track are not eligible for financial aid from the Computer Science department including research assistantships, teaching assistantships, project assistantships, fellowships and/or tuition waivers. However, such students are still eligible for financial aid available elsewhere on the campus.

All students must complete the degree requirements within five years of initial enrollment.

Computer Science MS Learning Outcomes

Students graduating from the Computer Science, MS program will be able to: 

• Demonstrate knowledge of advanced technical material in computer science. 

Additionally, students doing a master's thesis will: 

• Demonstrate the ability to do research in computer science. 

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DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

Welcome to the Department of Computer Science at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater!   We offer education in Computer Science, Cybersecurity and related computing areas that include Artificial Intelligence, Bioinformatics, Data Science, Game Development, and Web Development, both at undergraduate and graduate levels.

The Department of Computer Science is the place to explore one's full potential. Students are encouraged to participate in our broad extra-curricular activities including: undergraduate research, programming contests, cybersecurity contests, out-of-class software projects, and entrepreneurship.

Our diverse group of faculty are committed to education and research. UW-W Computer Science Faculty are actively publishing and securing research grants in areas that include Artificial Intelligence,  Bioinformatics, Computer Vision and Machine Learning, Cybersecurity and Privacy, Software Engineering, and Theory of Computer Science. 

Jiazhen Zhou Department Chair & Associate Professor Phone: 262-472-5172 Location: McGraw Hall 104C Sue Roberts Administrative Assistant III Phone: 262-472-1666 Location: McGraw Hall 104

• SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS

Welcome to the Department of Computer Science at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater!   We offer education in Computer Science , Cybersecurity and related computing areas that include Artificial Intelligence, Bioinformatics, Data Science, Game Development, and Web Development, both at undergraduate and graduate levels. Follow us on facebook for upcoming events »   Follow us on instagram  

Many of our UW-Whitewater Computer Science Alumni are using their degree to succeed at leading companies in the computing industry. Our alumni are currently placed at Amazon,  American Family Insurance,  Apple,  EPIC,  Google,  IBM, and NorthWestern Mutual.  Alumni are also pursuing Ph.D. studies at elite research universities including the University of California- Berkeley, Dartmouth College, University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and University of Nevada - Las Vegas.  Whatever your dream career in the field of Computer Science may be, you can achieve it at UW-Whitewater! 

Computer Science Degree Options

• Computer Science - Applied Computing Emphasis (BA/BS)
• Computer Science - Comprehensive Emphasis (BS)
• Computer Science - General Emphasis (BA/BS)
• Cybersecurity - Comprehensive Emphasis (BS)
• Cybersecurity - Cyber Operations Emphasis (BS)
• Cybersecurity - Cybersecurity Emphasis (BS)

Computer Science

Cybersecurity.

• Data Science
• Web Site Development and Administration

Certificates

• Computer Science Master's Bridge Program

Assistant Professor

Department(s): COMPUTER SCIENCE

[email protected]

Mcgraw Hall 109 |

[email protected]

Laurentide Hall 2247 |

(262) 472-1371

Mark A Dorney

Adjunct Instructor

[email protected]

Mcgraw Hall 0009 |

(262) 472-1666

Cory J Fritsch

Graduate Assistant

[email protected]

Ma'iingan Hall |

Arnab Ganguly

Associate Professor

[email protected]

Mcgraw Hall 104B |

(262) 472-5002

Athula D. A. Gunawardena

[email protected]

Mcgraw Hall 110 |

(262) 472-1469

Hairi Hairi

[email protected]

(262) 472-4121

[email protected]

Laurentide Hall 2227 |

(262) 472-1456

Brian S Maresso

Lecturer 1, Add'l Pay Instructional

Department(s): COMPUTER SCIENCE, First Year Experience

[email protected]

Mcgraw Hall 111 |

(262) 472-1992

Lopamudra Mukherjee

[email protected]

Mcgraw Hall 107 |

(262) 472-5160

Nathan J Nash

[email protected]

Hien M Nguyen

[email protected]

Mcgraw Hall 106 |

(262) 472-5170

Zachary J Oster

Associate Professor, Add'l Pay Non-Instructional

[email protected]

Mcgraw Hall 108 |

(262) 472-5006

Sue M Roberts

Administrative Assistant III

[email protected]

Mcgraw Hall 104 |

Sobitha W Samaranayake

[email protected]

Laurentide Hall 2225 |

Chandra Sharma

[email protected]

(262) 472-5167

[email protected]

Mcgraw Hall 0010 |

Jiazhen Zhou

[email protected]

Mcgraw Hall 104C |

(262) 472-5172

There are numerous scholarship opportunities available to students, both through the university, the College of Letters and Sciences and the Computer Science Department. To make life a little easier, all of the university's scholarship applications and requirement listings are available online .

• WF Johnston Computer Sciences Scholarship
• Eric James McLean Scholarship
• McLean Family Endowment
• Metcalf Family Endowment
• Luke Veenhuis Computer Science Graduate Scholarship

Please contact Sue Roberts at 262-472-1666 for more information.

Individuals attending tutoring MUST follow policies printed below and sign in after completion of each tutoring session.

Sign in   for tutoring! 

• Treat staff and students respectfully
• Keep speaking volume at an acceptable level that does not distract others from their work.
• Please use language that is appropriate to a professional setting.

STUDENTS ATTENDING TUTORING SESSIONS WILL:

• Sign in at link above
• Be patient,  remember that there may be other students that need tutoring help. Tutors will assist you as time and demands allow.
• Come prepared  for tutoring. Bring any relevant assignment descriptions, notes, and materials with you so that our tutors can do their best to understand the problem and assist you.
• Read and  attempt to do the assignment on your own before asking for help. Show your work on problems so far, regardless of whether you think it is good or bad.
• Bring  specific  issues or concepts you are having difficulty with. Have specific questions for tutors instead of, "How do I do this?"
• Cooperate  with tutors and  respect  their recommendations, suggestions, and instruction on best practices.
• Remember that the goal of the tutoring program is to help you through the learning process to become an  independent student . Tutoring is not to be used in place of class attendance.

EXPECTATIONS OF TUTORS:

• Help with concepts, debugging, and specific questions relating to projects and assignments. Tutors will not help complete assignments or give answers to quiz questions or write specific programming code.
• Give  guidance  on how to start, research or study for a project.
• Arrive  prepared and on time  for your scheduled tutoring hours.
• Follow all campus policies and procedures  as printed in the Department of Computer Science Student Employee Manual.
• Repor t any issues or concerns to Academic Department Associate, Chair or appropriate faculty member.

LINK TO:  debugging_tips

Tutoring Sign Up

Association for Computing Machinery (AMC)

In Computer Science— a rapidly growing career field — you'll develop essential problem-solving and communication skills while learning how to creatively design and develop database applications, networking techniques, artificial intelligence tools, software engineering solutions, and more. Courses include coding with Java and C++, software engineering, computer organization and assembly programming, applied statistics, writing in the sciences, and much more.

An emphasis in Applied Computing will allow students to take their prior knowledge of computer science and focus on how it can be applied in the business, management, and technical worlds. Courses on subjects such as database design and management, introductory and intermediate coding, software engineering, applied mathematics, technical and professional writing, and more will prepare students for a professional career in computer science.

With a comprehensive emphasis, you’ll be better prepared to engage in sophisticated work or research in computer science. Courses will provide you with a deeper understanding of computer science and will cover a wider range of topics than the general major.

Have a knack for collecting and presenting data and a desire to positively influence the world with your findings? With a minor in Data Science, you will learn how to compile and communicate information through a well-rounded understanding of social and technological sciences. You will take courses in data science, programming with Python, persuasion and communication, technical writing, social research, logic, and more.

From health to the arts, the creation and management of websites is a universally desired skill within every career field. With an emphasis in Website Developement and Administration, you will take courses on subjects ranging from the art of visual media design to programming and app developement, all giving you the proper training you need to enter a multitude of career paths.

Get ready to hack into the studies of both cybersecurity operations and the design and implementation of security systems with our Cybersecurity program. Students will take courses such as vulnerability analysis, system administration, malware detection, and incident response, as well as the science of cryptography and the programming of virtual media itself.

With a comprehensive emphasis, you’ll be better prepared to engage in sophisticated work or research in cybersecurity. Courses will provide you with a deeper understanding of cybersecurity and will cover a wider range of topics than the general major.

Take your knowledge of cybersecurity and learn to apply it to a multitude of situations with an emphasis in Cyber Operations. Students will study a wide range of relevant subjects within the cybersecurity world, such as understanding the coding languages of Java and C++, systems security engineering, web server administration, technical writing, and more.

Computer Science (Applied Computing)

Computer science (comprehensive), computer science (data science), computer science (website and development administration), cybersecurity (comprehensive), cybersecurity (cyber operations).

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Graduate School Data

The University of Wisconsin–Madison Graduate School is committed to data transparency about student experiences and employment outcomes. This page provides data highlights, links to interactive data dashboards, and information about national data initiatives in which UW–Madison is a partner.

Data resources for faculty and staff >>

Explore the Data

Admissions and enrollment.

For fall 2022, the admission rate was 32%. The enrollment (yield) rate was 40%. Admissions and enrollment information for individual programs is also available through the link below.

• Admissions and enrollment data More

Doctoral student funding

In fall 2022, 86% of PhD students had full funding through UW in the form of graduate assistantships and fellowships. Other students generally rely on a combination of funding sources such as external funding, employment, personal savings, and loans.

• Graduate student funding data More

Degrees awarded

UW–Madison granted over 3,300 graduate degrees in 2022-23 (2,590 master’s degrees, 771 PhD degrees), with a median time to degree of 6 years for a PhD degree and 1.8 years for a master’s degree.

• Graduate School degrees, retention, and completion More

Doctoral career outcomes

PhD alumni 5 years post-graduation held careers in a variety of sectors, including in academia (53% of PhD graduates), for-profit industries (34%), government (6%), non-profit organizations (6%), and other fields (1%).

• Doctoral career outcomes data More

Data publications

Understanding UW–Madison PhD Career Pathways: Career Preferences, Outcomes, and Alignment

Published August 2019

Data projects

Coalition for Next Generation Life Science

Recognizing the lack of clear marketplace information on career options for life scientists, UW–Madison joined eight other research universities and a major cancer institute to form a coalition that has publicly posted career outcomes data for biomedical scientists.

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Advance computing knowledge through inquiry, critical thinking and abstraction

Main content.

Ph.D. in Computer Science and Systems (Ph.D. CSS) students focus on computing principles to become experts in one of many interdisciplinary areas in science and society characterized by substantial engineering and technology challenges.

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.

Effective Autumn 2024, applications to the Computer Science and Systems Ph.D. program are not being accepted, as the program is at capacity. Applicants can refer back to this page to check for further updates. Upon reopening of applications, applicants must secure a faculty advisor before they can be admitted into the program. Students interested in applying should refer to the faculty roster to find faculty contact information. 

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:

• 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

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 .

• Francis Nwagbara - Graduate Recruiter 
• Rachel Crook - Graduate Program Advisor

Want more information about the MSCSS program, need help with your application, or just want to get in contact with us? Fill out this brief  Prospective Student Inquiry Form , and your Graduate Recruiter will reach out to you within 1 - 3 days.

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Graduate Handbook 2023-2024

Welcome to the Graduate Handbook!

Click here to access the guidebook for previous years. 

Table of Contents

Graduate advising, satisfactory progress, ms requirements.

• Requirements
• Qualifying Process (Qualifying Exam and Qualifying Breadth Courses
• Preliminary Process (Minor Requirements, Preliminary Examination, Dissertator Status)
• Final Process (Final Exam & Dissertation)
• PhD Program Deadlines

Funding & Financial Aid

Cpt/internship process.

Professional Conduct Standards  

Misconduct ( Academic Misconduct, Non-Academic Misconduct, Research Misconduct)

Hostile and Intimidating Behavior

Grievance Process

Other graduate student resources, helpful links.

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Standard Application Process - External

This is the process for all applicants other than current UW–Madison graduate students. Applications are normally accepted for fall semester admission only. Completed applications are due no later than December 15.

The application is available on the Graduate School website. Departmental requirements for admission are more stringent than those of the Graduate School. The following items must be submitted in order to be considered by the department:

• Letters of recommendation.  All applicants, whether requesting financial aid or not, must have three letters of recommendation. Recommendations are submitted online to the Graduate School as part of the application process.
• Official school records. Transcripts are required from each institution where the applicant did prior academic work. Applicants must scan their transcripts into the graduate school application. Paper transcripts or electronic transcripts will not be accepted. If an institution does not issue official transcripts, a letter from an administrator of the institution should be scanned into the application instead. The letter should include: a) year of admission; b) number of years enrolled at the institution; c) reference to the quality of work (analysis of grading system); d) evidence that examinations were passed; e) diploma certifying degree, class and year; and f) General Certificate of Education or equivalent.
• Evidence of English proficiency.  An applicant whose native language is not English, or whose undergraduate instruction was not in English, must provide an English proficiency test score. See the  Graduate School requirements  for more details.

Admissions frequently asked questions. 

Current UW-Madison Grad Students: adding a second MS in CS

Graduate students who are currently enrolled in another graduate program at UW–Madison are considered internal applicants and need to follow a different procedure to apply for a second MS or apply to the CS PhD program.

Click here for information about adding a second CS MS.

Current UW-Madison Grad Students: changing to CS PhD from another UW-Madison grad program

Changing to CS PHD from another UW-Madison graduate program:

Currently enrolled graduate students in other departments or in the CS Professional MS (PMP) who wish to change their major to undertake a PhD in Computer Sciences must submit  the grad school change major application form and submit the following materials to CS PhD Graduate Program Manager. (Special note: Students in the PMP are expected to complete the PMP MS prior to admission to CS PHD.):

• All application materials including faculty recommendations must be received by January 1. Applications are accepted for fall semester admission only. Applications are not considered at other times of the year nor for PhD program start times other than the fall semester. International students are responsible for contacting International Student Services at UW to discuss any possible effect the change of program may have on their immigration status.
• Currently enrolled graduate students who wish to change their major to undertake a PHD in Computer Sciences and who have a CS faculty member who plans to be their CS PHD advisor are eligible to apply.
• Fill out the grad school change major request  form .
• Submit Change to CS PhD form to apply to change to CS PhD.  Upload unofficial copy (student copy) of your UW  transcript when filling out the request form. Upload a statement of purpose explaining the reasons for your interest in transferring to the CS graduate program and your previous experiences with our department (courses taken, independent research with a CS advisor, etc.).
• Three letters of recommendation from UW–Madison faculty members are required, at least two of which must be from a faculty member whose primary academic appointment is in CS. These should be emailed by the faculty members to the PHD grad program manager: Angela Thorp, [email protected]
• Applicant’s  current graduate program coordinator or manager should send a copy of the student’s original UW-Madison graduate application to the CS PHD grad program manager: Angela Thorp, [email protected]

Graduate Advising Committee

The Graduate Advising Committee (GAC) advises students in the traditional MS/PHD program, approves course plans, and evaluates satisfactory progress toward the degree. Each fall and spring semester graduate students in the program who are not in dissertator status should plan to meet with a  faculty GAC member to discuss their course selection and progress toward degree goal. Students can meet with a GAC member later in the semester if they need to discuss changes to their course schedule for the semester. Posted drop in office hours are held throughout the fall and spring semester.  Students seeking deadline extensions or exceptions need to contact the GAC Chair, Professor Eftychios Sifakis .

See Graduate Advising Committee members and hours here. 

Degree Planning

During the orientation period or early part of the first term of a graduate student’s tenure in the Department, the student must attend a scheduled meeting with a faculty member of the Graduate Advising Committee (GAC) to discuss their plans for meeting their degree goals.

• New students share their program plan in their initial meeting with a faculty member on  GAC. The purpose of the program plan is to ensure that the student is pursuing a suitable course of study for the degree sought, and understands the requirements. Planning forms will be provided by the grad program managers.
• The program plan should be completed for the degree sought. Students pursuing an MS should list courses they plan to take to meet the degree requirements for MS. Students pursuing a Ph.D. should fill out the section on PHD qualifying process, including their area of specialization for the qualifying examination and their Planned breadth courses. (See PHD requirements section for details of the qualifying process.) If students are interested in getting an MS while pursuing  a PHD, they are encouraged to  fill out the planned MS coursework section of the form.

In order to complete the planning form students can peruse the course descriptions; lists of past, current, and future offerings; and other available course information. It is important to check the prerequisites of courses, as well as the schedule of course offerings; many graduate courses are offered only once a year, and some even less frequently. After drafting those documents, students should have their initial meeting with a GAC faculty advisor to discuss their plans and have the forms approved. 

The student should keep a copy of the completed program plan to refer to in the future. It is the responsibility of the student to keep their  program plan up to date. Students should meet with a member of GAC whenever they have changes to plan.

SATISFACTORY PERFORMANCE IN THE Computer Sciences MS/PhD Program entails (SEE DEFINITIONS OF TERMS BELOW):

A.  adhering to the university’s standards for professional conduct at all times., b.  meeting th e graduate school enrollment requirements and maintaining a cumulative gpa of at least 3.00..

The enrollment requirements depend on the status of the student, and need to be maintained throughout the term. Full-time status as defined by the Graduate School is a condition for many obligations, including visa eligibility, fellowships, assistantships and external funding agencies. In particular, international students with a F-1 or J-1 visa need to be enrolled full-time each regular term (fall or spring semester). Full-time registration during the summer session is typically not required except for RAs, 12-month fellows, dissertators with financial support and graduating students. Check out the table at the end of the GRADUATE SCHOOL ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS for the precise conditions and the corresponding number of credits required for full-time registration. Computer Sciences Department policy for TAs requires that they be enrolled in a minimum of 6 credits unless in dissertator status. This requirement exceeds the minimum required by the university but must be filled by students TAing in the CS department.

C. MAKING SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS IN EVERY REGULAR TERM.

A graduate student in Computer Sciences shall be considered to have made satisfactory academic progress in a given term if all of the following conditions are satisfied:

• During the given term the student has completed, with a satisfactory grade or a grade of I (incomplete) or P (progress), a minimum number of credits of approved courses determined by the following decision list, conditioned on the status of the student during that semester. Questions regarding enrollment requirements can be directed to the grad program managers. Leave of absence or part load requests should be directed to the GAC Chair.

• At the end of the given term, the student has removed all incomplete grades from any previous term.
• The student has observed all the deadlines imposed by the Department that occur before the start of the next regular term, in particular the milestone deadlines for students on the PhD track

DEFINITIONS:

Approved courses.

• CS courses numbered 400 or above, excluding CS 400, which is part of the undergraduate intro course series.
• Basic CS courses (CS 300, CS 352, CS 354,CS 400), and basic calculus (Math 221, Math 222, and Math 234)  are approved provided that the student has been admitted with deficiencies that are being removed by taking these courses.  These courses do not count towards the  required 24 CS credits for MS degree but can be counted toward the 6 additional credits (wild card) to reach the total 30 credits required for MS. 
• Courses from other departments that materially contribute to the degree goals of the student. Such courses are typically numbered 400 or above. No course numbered less than 300 will be approved. These courses do not count toward required 24 CS credits for MS degree but can be counted toward the 6 additional credits (wild card) to reach the 30 credits required for MS. Non CS courses numbered 300 or above do count toward the 51 credits required for PHD.
• To meet MS degree requirements, up to  6 credits of non CS courses numbered 300 or above can be counted toward the 6 wild card credits.
• PhD minor requirements are met with courses from other departments. 
• For students in dissertator status, only CS 990 with the dissertation advisor is approved, except with explicit permission of the latter for a course directly related to the dissertation research.

Repercussions of Non-Satisfactory Performance

• The University has disciplinary procedures in place for academic, non-academic, and research misconduct.
• A student may be placed on probation or suspended from the Graduate School for low grades or for failing to resolve incompletes in a timely fashion.
• At the level of the Department: A student who fails to make satisfactory academic progress during one regular term loses the financial support guarantee of the Department (if any), and is not eligible for financial support from resources controlled by the Department during the next regular term. A student who fails to make satisfactory academic progress during two consecutive regular terms (fall and spring semester, or spring and fall semester) will be dismissed from the Department right before the start of the next regular term.

Issues Related to Satisfactory Academic Progress

Any graduate student may appeal any aspect of the satisfactory academic progress rules, provided that the appeal is made in a timely way. In particular, appealing a decision that a student did not make satisfactory academic progress must be initiated no later than the end of the fourth week of the subsequent regular term.

To appeal, the student should send an email to the Graduate Advisory Committee (GAC )Chair stating the basis for the appeal. This letter should explain clearly the reasons for the appeal, and it should be accompanied by appropriate documents such as a medical certificate if the appeal is on the grounds of ill health or a supporting letter from a CS faculty member if the appeal concerns an unusual combination of courses. Often, it will be useful for the student to discuss the problem with his or her dissertation advisor or a member of the Graduate Advising Committee before putting the appeal into writing.

The GAC Chair will consider every such written appeal and will notify the student of his decision at the earliest opportunity, normally within four working weeks. A student who is not satisfied with the decision by the GAC Chair may submit a further appeal in writing to the Department Chair.

The Department Chair will place the appeal on the agenda of a regular faculty meeting, will circulate the letter of appeal and accompanying documentation, and will give the student written notification of the meeting. The meeting will be scheduled at the earliest opportunity, normally within four working weeks after receipt of the letter to the Department Chair. The student and any of the student’s advisors may attend the meeting to present the appeal, provided that the Department Chair is advised in writing before the start of the meeting. In accordance with Wisconsin law, the meeting will begin in open session, but the Department Chair will move that the meeting convene in closed session before the appeal is considered.

Obtaining a Master of Science in Computer Science

In order to obtain the degree of Master of Science in Computer Sciences, a student must:

• be admitted to the traditional MS track or PhD track of the department,
• meet the minimum credit requirement for the MS degree,
• not be dismissed, suspended, or on probation due to lack of satisfactory performance,
• have no incompletes (I) or unreported (NR) grades. 

Each semester the CS MS grad program manager will send an email  that provides the link to MS warrant request form and graduation information to all students in the MS/PhD program.

Transfer of Credits

Credits from other institutions cannot be used to satisfy MS requirements. Credits from prior coursework at UW–Madison may be counted toward an MS degree provided they were earned within five years of current enrollment in the program.

The following restrictions apply:

• Credits earned as an undergraduate student cannot be counted.
• Credits earned towards a certificate cannot be counted.
• At most 15 credits taken as a special student may be counted. (Note that the Graduate School requires that at least 16 credits be taken after enrollment in the MS program.)
• If a student is obtaining MS degrees in two or more majors,  no more than a 25% credit overlap with other UW-Madison MS degrees is allowed, based on the lower credit requirements of the two programs.

Students who wish to transfer credits from prior coursework at UW–Madison must have them approved by a graduate advisor.

Minimum Degree Requirements

24 credits must be Computer Sciences courses numbered 400 or above. The following courses are not allowed to count toward these 24 credits:

• COMP SCI 400  Programming III
• seminar course ( COMP SCI/​B M E/​B M I/​BIOCHEM/​CBE/​GENETICS  915 )
• individual instruction courses ( COMP SCI 699 ,  COMP SCI 799  and  COMP SCI 899 ), and COMP SCI 702

At least 15 of the 24 credits must be  Core Credits , which are Computer Sciences courses numbered 700-889 graded on A-F scale, with the following exclusions/qualifications:

• COMP SCI 790  Master’s Thesis normally counts towards core credit. In rare instances, the thesis supervisor or committee may (at the time of evaluation of the thesis work) designate credit awarded for  COMP SCI 790  as ineligible for core credit; credit awarded under this scenario may still count towards the 24 qualifying Computer Sciences credits. Credit for  COMP SCI 790  is provided as follows: (a) A student earns 3 credits,l for a  project  for which a report has been filed with the department and approved by at least one full-time Computer Science faculty member, or (b) the student earns 6 credits, for a  master’s thesis  that has been submitted as a departmental tech report and approved by a properly formed thesis committee. Students completing the thesis can split the 6 credits over 2 semesters. If you have questions, contact the MS grad program manager.
• Among the topics courses  COMP SCI 758 ,   COMP SCI 839  and  COMP SCI 880 , a maximum of one such course can be used as core credit.
• COMP SCI 838  is not allowed to count towards Core Credits.
• Courses cross-listed with CS are acceptable for the purposes of this requirement. Non–CS courses that are not cross-listed with CS cannot be counted toward the 24 credits.

The remaining 6 credits can be from any subject. Courses that can be used toward this requirement include:

• Research credits for 799 or 899
• Internship credits for CS 702
• Seminar credit for CS 915; can be taken multiple times for credit
•  CS900 section 2. CS 900 section 1 is restricted to students in the professional program
• Graded courses from other departments that are numbered 300 or above

Graduate Course Information

Topics courses.

Topics courses have syllabi that may change significantly from one offering to another.  They can be taken multiple times for credit. However, students are restricted to using only one topics course toward the core requirement.

CS 758,  CS 839 and CS 880 are considered topics courses.. Note: prior to the creation of CS 839 in Fall 2017 certain 838s were approved for core. If you have questions about earlier 838s for core, please consult with a member of the Graduate Advising Committee.

SEMINAR COURSES

The seminar courses offered by the CS Department are CS 900 and CS 915. Seminar courses can be taken multiple times for credit. CS900 section 1 is restricted to students in the Professional Master’s program and can not be used toward CS MS in the traditional MS program. CS 900 Section 2, a new course in Fall 2023 can be used toward traditional MS requirements to fulfill the 6 additional credits requirement. The content of CS 900 section 2 is similar each semester and should not be taken more than once.

INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION/ MASTERS RESEARCH COURSE 799

799 Master’s research. Students doing independent research and seeking to earn MS at UW-Madison, even if PhD is their end goal and they entered as  PHD student,  should enroll in 799. 799 can be counted toward the six credit wild card requirement.  While pursuing MS students may take more than 6 cumulative credits of 799. However, a maximum of 6 can be applied toward minimum degree requirements (wild card courses). 799 does not count toward the 24 credits of CS courses required for MS.

THESIS/ PROJECT COURSE  790

Students may choose to write a master’s thesis or project report. The responsibility for finding a thesis or project advisor lies solely with the student. The advisor must be a full-time or affiliate faculty member of the Department. The student should discuss the choice between a project report or a master’s thesis ahead of time with the instructor, and have a clear understanding of the expectations. If you have questions about the MS thesis or Project option you can contact the MS program manager. When a student enrolls in Thesis or Project they need to submit the MS Thesis/Project Planning Form . 

Master's Thesis

A master’s thesis (6 credits) is expected to be a substantial piece of work, e.g., a comprehensive survey of a particular area. In contrast to a doctoral thesis, a master’s thesis need not contain original research work, but might well serve as a basis and major first step toward subsequent doctoral work. There are no rules regarding the format of a master’s thesis.   The student should consult with their  thesis advisor and can also review the Graduate School’s Guide to Preparing Your Master’s Thesis . The student should send a copy of the thesis including the title page signed by the thesis committee to the MS Program Manager. In addition the thesis needs to be published as a departmental technical report. Depositing a copy of the thesis in the Memorial Library is optional.  

The thesis committee consists of the advisor and a minimum of two additional members; at least one of the additional members must be a full time faculty member of the department. 

Project Report

A project report (3 credits) is carried out under the supervision of a faculty member. The report should be submitted in electronic form, along with a title page signed by project advisor, to the MS graduate program manager. The report is kept on file in the department but is not made public.

PhD Requirements

In order to obtain the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Sciences a student must:

• be admitted to the CS PhD track,
• complete all milestone requirements,
• meet the minimum credit requirement for the degree,
• not be dismissed, suspended or on probation due to lack of satisfactory performance, and
• pay all fees and file the required paperwork.

Milestone Requirements

The milestone requirements for a PhD in CS are: the qualifying process, the preliminary process, and the final defense process. The deadlines are based on the semester in which the student was initially admitted to the CS MS/PhD program whether they entered as an MS or PhD student. To ensure compliance with satisfactory progress requirements, milestones must be met within the allotted time frame as follows:

Qualifying Process: Students must complete breadth requirements and pass the qualifying examination within 3 years after admission to the program.

  Preliminary: Students complete minor and pass preliminary examination within 4 years after admission to the program; up to one additional year extension is possible with GAC chair and advisor approval.

Dissertation : Students must pass final defense examination and deposit dissertation within 5 years from date of preliminary examination.  Extensions to this deadline are granted by the graduate school PhD coordinator with the approval of the student’s PhD advisor.  Extensions to this 5 year post preliminary exam deadline are rarely needed.

Credit Information

Minimum credit requirement.

The student must receive 51 credits in courses numbered 300 or above such that at least 50% of the credits counted are for courses numbered 700 and above.

All graded courses numbered 300 or above taken as a graduate student in CS at UW-Madison count towards this requirement, including those counted towards an MS in CS, the breadth requirement, and the minor requirement. Research credits for 799,899,990 count toward this requirement. 790 counts for students who did a thesis or project masters.  Non-CS courses also count toward the 51 credit requirement. 

The requirement that 32 credits must be taken as a graduate student at UW-Madison is referred to as the minimum graduate residence credit requirement, and must be completed prior to achieving dissertator status. The CS department does not allow traditional MS/PHD students to transfer credit from other institutions. All 51 credits must be earned at UW-Madison post baccalaureate.

Transfer of credits

Credits from other institutions cannot be used to satisfy requirements, with one exception .  One course taken elsewhere may be used to satisfy a breadth course requirement. This course does not count towards any other requirement and no credit is given for the course.

Credits from prior graduate coursework at UW-Madison may be counted towards the PhD in CS provided they were earned less than 10 years before the current enrollment in the PhD in CS program, with the following restrictions:

• At most 15 credits taken as a special student may be counted.
• There is no more than a 25% credit overlap with any other PhD degree, based on the lower credit requirements of the two programs.

Required Forms

Preliminary warrant.

After the student finishes the preliminary process, the electronic preliminary warrant needs to be electronically signed by every member of the prelim committee, indicating that the student passed the prelim exam, as well as by the minor advisor, indicating that the student completed the minor requirement. The PhD graduate program manager submits the signed preliminary warrant electronically to the Graduate School for review and approval. After completion of the preliminary exam and minor, the student will become a dissertator in the following semester. Students will receive notification from the Graduate School of dissertator status and subsequent enrollment requirements until defense and deposit of dissertation.

PhD Defense Warrant

A warrant is required for the final oral defense. The student is required to submit the fully e-signed warrant at the time they deposit their dissertation. The warrant needs to be signed by every member of the final defense committee, indicating that the student passed the final examination. 

Whenever a warrant is needed, the student should submit the applicable google warrant request form to the PhD Graduate Program Manager at least three weeks ahead of time.  

Dissertation Advisor

It is the responsibility of a PhD student to find a dissertation advisor. The department does not guarantee that a dissertation advisor will be provided. The dissertation advisor must be a full-time or affiliate faculty member of the Department, or have retired or resigned from such a position no more than a year prior to the student’s defense.

The dissertation advisor’s expertise and research interests should match closely with those that the student intends to acquire. Students are encouraged to gather information from courses, seminars, faculty, the program website, and publications to identify faculty with compatible research interests. A professor should be approached at as early a stage in the student’s graduate work as possible, though usually not until after the student has taken some of the professor’s courses or has worked with and demonstrated ability to the professor in some way. Students who intend to get a PhD should find a dissertation advisor no later than the end of second year in the MS/PhD program. PhD students need to find a dissertation advisor early enough to meet the qualifying milestone. The deadline for completing qualifying process is the 6th semester after entering the graduate program. The dissertation advisor chairs the qualifying process, the preliminary exam committee and the final oral exam committee. 

A student who later decides that a different dissertation advisor would be preferable should discuss this with the current dissertation advisor and consult with a member of the GAC committee to seek a change in advisor. Selection of a dissertation advisor, or change of dissertation advisors, should be based on the faculty member’s ability to guide the student expertly into the chosen area of research. In each case the student needs to inform the Graduate Program Manager about the current dissertation advisor.

PhD Qualifying Process

The qualifying process for PhD students in CS consists of completing the CS breadth course requirement and passing the qualifying examination. Both components need to be finished by the qualifying deadline, which is the end of student’s 6th semester.

Qualifying Exam

All areas of Computer Sciences except Optimization and Computer Architecture now use a project based qualifying exam. 

The O ptimization qualifying examination is a 4 hour seated examination and is offered only in the fall. It is administered by the Industrial and Systems Engineering Department. Students interested in this area exam should register with the ISYE department. Details are sent by the CS PHD program manager prior to the start of semester. Exam is usually given at the start of the third week of classes.

The C omputer Architecture exam is a four hour seated exam and is offered usually in the third week of classes in fall and spring. Students who are planning to take the computer architecture qualifying exam should contact the CS PhD Graduate Program Manager no later than Friday of the first week of classes.

Students from other areas need to register for the project based qual at the beginning of the semester. The PhD program manager will send out the registration information within the first two weeks of class. Students whose option is the project based qual register at the beginning of the semester after receiving the qualifying  information and link for registration from the PhD program manager.

For the project based qualifying process, the student will need to have a qual advisor, who is the expected PhD advisor. Before registering for the qualifying “exam” the student should discuss the expectations with the advisor., The qual advisor has some latitude in what will be required. Typically the project involves research or an implementation exercise that demonstrates the student’s ability to do PhD research. When the project is completed the student makes a presentation to the qual advisor and the members of the grading committee. The committee has a minimum of 3 members, two of whom must have tenure home in the CS department. 

Qualifying Process Course Breadth Requirement  

PhD Preliminary Process

The preliminary process for PhD students in CS consists of completing the minor requirement and passing the preliminary examination. Both components need to be finished by the preliminary deadline.

Minor Requirement

The minor requirement involves 9 to 12 credits of course work outside of CS. There are two methods of fulfilling this requirement, referred to as Option A and Option B on the Minor Declaration Form.

• Option A: Existing program This option consists of fulfilling the PhD minor requirements as specified by an existing program outside of CS. Students should contact the particular program for the precise requirements, and find the person from that program who is authorized to act as the Minor Advisor. On a student’s transcript, fulfillment of this option appears as Minor: followed by the name of the program.
• All credits counted are for courses numbered 300 or above.
• No credits counted are for courses in CS or courses cross-listed with CS.
• No credits counted are for individual instruction courses.
• All credits counted are graded on the A-F scale and have received a grade of BC or higher.
• The GPA of the credits counted is at least 3.00.
• No more than 5 credits counted are for coursework completed more than 5 years prior to admission to the Ph.D. program are counted; no credits counted are for coursework taken 10 years ago or more; no credits counted are for courses taken while the student was completing requirements for UW CS MS .
• For this option the Graduate Advisory Committee (GAC) Chair acts as the Minor Advisor. Student must consult as early as possible with the Graduate advising committee chair for approval of a distributed minor plan. On a student’s transcript, fulfillment of this option appears as Minor: Distributed.

For external minors from other departments, the Minor Advisor for that department attests to it by signing the Minor Declaration Form and approving the minor request in  the grad portal. The minor advisor electronically signs the preliminary warrant from the Graduate School at the time of preliminary exam or when the minor requirements are completed if the minor is not yet completed by the date of preliminary exam. An electronic copy of the signed Minor Declaration form needs to be filed with the Graduate Program Coordinator.

The PhD program manager verifies completion of distributed minor at the time the warrant request is made. For a distributed minor the department chair signs the preliminary warrant to attest to completion of the distributed minor. 

Preliminary Examination

The preliminary examination is an oral exam in which the student is expected to display depth of knowledge in the area of specialization in which research for the dissertation will be conducted. Students need to complete the qualifying process before taking the preliminary examination. They should have worked on some project with their dissertation advisor before planning the exam, and determine when they are ready to take it in consultation with their dissertation advisor.

The preliminary examination committee consists of three or more members and is chaired by the dissertation advisor. The composition of the committee will be suggested by the dissertation advisor in consultation with the student. At least two of the committee members must be full-time faculty members of the Department.

The student should approach each proposed member of the committee, secure agreement to serve, and then discuss a program for preparing for the examination. It is advisable for the student to do this about a semester before the examination is to be scheduled.

Students should request preliminary warrant three weeks before the scheduled date for their examination. When the student requests the preliminary warrant they need to know the date and their committee composition, which requires a minimum of three members.  

After the student passes the exam, each committee member needs to electronically sign the preliminary warrant.

Dissertator Status

The semester following passing exam and completing minor the student becomes a dissertator . 

Both the minor and preliminary exam must be completed before the student is eligible for dissertator status. When a student has advanced to dissertator status , the graduate school will send a confirmation email to the student that includes detailed information on enrollment requirements for dissertators and other requirements for degree completion.

PhD Final Process (Final Exam & Dissertation)

The final process for PhD students in CS consists of writing and depositing the dissertation and passing the final examination. Both components need to be finished by the final deadline.

The Graduate School website contains a doctoral guide completing your doctoral degree . This guide includes dissertation formatting guidelines, resources for writing help and timelines for degree completion.

Dissertation

The student must conduct, under the supervision of a dissertation advisor, a substantial piece of original research in CS and report it in a dissertation that is made public and meets the highest standards of scholarship.

Defense Warrant Request

When a student is ready to defend and has determined the date and committee composition they can request a PhD Final Defense Warrant . This form should be submitted at least 3 weeks prior to the defense.

The members of the final examination committee should receive a copy of the dissertation at the latest three weeks before the exam. After passing the final exam, the student needs to electronically deposit the dissertation along with the fully signed defense warrant.

Final Defense Examination

The final examination is an oral exam in which the student must explain and defend the contents of the dissertation and exhibit detailed knowledge of the general area in which the reported research falls. Students need to complete the preliminary process before taking the final examination.

The final examination committee consists of four or more members and is chaired by the dissertation advisor. The composition of the committee will be suggested by the dissertation advisor. Defense committee requirements can be found here: Graduate School: Committees (Doctoral/Master’s/MFA) – UW-Madison Policy Library

 All of the following conditions need to be satisfied:

• At least three of the committee members must be UW-Madison graduate faculty or former UW-Madison graduate faculty up to one year after resignation or retirement.
• At least two of the committee members must be full-time faculty members of the Department.
• At least one of the committee members, other than the dissertation advisor, must represent a UW department outside of CS.
• The fourth member can be from UW-Madison or external to UW-Madison. They must have a PhD.
• At least three committee members must be designated readers. 
• After the student passes the exam, each committee member needs to electronically sign the PhD Defense Warrant.

PhD Deadlines

For historical reasons, deadlines are reckoned in semesters (regular academic terms).  One year equals two regular terms, and the deadline clock does not advance during the summer.  Exceptions to the milestone deadlines must be petitioned by the student to the GAC Chair before the deadline has elapsed.  The student’s advisor should send an email to the GAC chair in support of extension requests.

Qualifying Deadline

Three years (6 regular terms) from time of entry are allotted for finishing the qualifying process.

A later extension of one regular term to complete the breadth requirement may be granted to students who have passed the qualifying exam, provided the student commits to a concrete plan for completing the breadth requirement by the extended deadline, and the dissertation advisor is supportive.

Students who believe their situation warrants additional time should consult with the GAC Chair. 

Preliminary Deadline

The number of regular terms initially allotted for finishing the preliminary process is the end of fourth year.

If the student is granted an extension to the qualifying deadline, the preliminary deadline is also automatically extended, unless the GAC chair specifies extension of qual deadline only.

A further prelim extension of up to two regular terms may be granted provided the student commits to a concrete plan for completing the preliminary process by the extended deadline, and the dissertation advisor is supportive, confirms willingness to direct the student towards the PhD degree, and states that the student is making good progress towards that degree. The PhD advisor should email the GAC chair in support of the student’s request for an extension.

Final Deadline for Defending and Depositing PhD Dissertation

The deadline for finishing the final process is initially set to 10 regular terms (5 years) after passing the preliminary examination.

In order to receive an extension, a student may be required to take another preliminary examination.

Deadline Extension for Childbirth and Adoption

A graduate student in good standing may request a deadline extension of one regular term when he or she experiences childbirth or adoption. The extension does not extend the funding guarantee by the Department.

The extension is available for each birth or adoption, to each parent, both males and females, and without regard to sexual orientation.

To obtain the extension, the student must email the GAC Chair and the dissertation advisor (if any) within 12 months of the date of birth or adoption. The GAC Chair checks that the conditions are met and, if so, automatically grants the extension.

For the purposes of this regulation, graduate students are considered in good standing if they are not dismissed, suspended, or on probation, and if they did not fail the conditions for satisfactory academic progress for the term prior to the child birth or adoption.

Graduate students are eligible for a range of financial support, including teaching assistantships, research assistantships and graduate fellowships. Many students admitted to the traditional MS/PhD track are offered a funding guarantee of four years through the department, typically in the form of teaching assistantships for incoming students. Funding consists of a tuition waiver and a stipend.

Most graduate assistantships are awarded at the time of admission.

Research Assistantships

Minimum requirements.

• Non-dissertator RAs are required to enroll in a minimum of 8 credits in Fall or Spring semester. Non-dissertator summer RAs are required to enroll in 2 credits. This credit requirement must be satisfied by graded courses numbered 300 or above. Courses numbered below 300, audit, and pass/fail do not satisfy enrollment requirements. Graduate research courses (799 and 899) are graded S/U and can be used to meet Non dissertator enrollment requirements.
• RAs are expected to be making satisfactory academic progress · International students are expected to adhere to the University’s policy on spoken English proficiency .
• Dissertator RAs are required to enroll in 3 credits of 990 each term, including summer if they have summer RA appointment.

APPOINTMENT AND WORKLOAD EXPECTATIONS

• RAs are typically 50% appointments.
• RAs should discuss RA duties, responsibilities, and expectations with RA advisor.
• International students are limited to 50% appointments and domestic students are limited to 75% appointments for all on-campus employment during the academic year.

RA APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:

• RAs are selected by individual professors. Professors are looking for students whose research interests align with their own. Professors usually make offers to students who have been outstanding students in their course or students who have taken independent study with them and have done exemplary work.
• Computer Sciences graduate students with guaranteed support usually start with TA appointments in their first year.

Summer Research Assistantships

Annually, the University of Wisconsin–Madison Department of Computer Sciences awards several summer research assistantships (RAships). These awards provide two months of summer support to outstanding students who are undergraduates or were first-year graduate students during the preceding academic year.

The principal criteria for RA selection are academic excellence and the quality of the expected outcomes of the proposed research project. Students who receive the award are advised by the nominating faculty member during the summer and give a 30-minute presentation on their results in a special seminar during the fall semester. Students are encouraged to discuss potential topics with computer sciences professors with whom they might want to work. For graduate students, it is expected that the nominating professor will contribute one half of the funding for the two-month assistantship.

How to Apply

Students are nominated by a computer sciences faculty member in April. Each nomination includes:

• Description of the proposed research (three pages, 12-point font)
• Student resume (one or two pages)
• Letter of nomination and recommendation from the nominating faculty member (two pages)

Teaching Assistantships

• TAs are expected to enroll in a minimum of 6 credits. Credit requirement must be satisfied by graded courses taken at 300 or above; courses numbered below 300, audit, and pass/fail do not satisfy enrollment requirements. Graduate research courses (799, 899, and 990) are graded S/U and can be used to meet enrollment requirement.
• TAs are expected to be making satisfactory academic progress
• International students are expected to adhere to the  University’s policies related to spoken English proficiency .
• TAs are typically 50% appointments, requiring 360 hours of work per semester
• TAs should discuss TA duties, responsibilities, and expectations with the course instructor
• TAs and instructors should jointly complete and submit a TA workload form
• International students are limited to 50% appointments and domestic students are limited to 75% appointments for all on-campus employment during the academic year

HOW TO APPLY

• The Computer Sciences TA application link is emailed out to all students in the traditional Computer Sciences MS/PhD graduate program. If you are not a Computer Sciences student but would like to be added to our mailing list to receive a TA application, please email [email protected] with this request
• Computer Sciences students with guaranteed support are given TA placement priority.

Computer Sciences Graduate Fellowship

Annually, the Department of Computer Sciences awards up to four graduate fellowships providing nine months of support to outstanding students pursuing the doctoral degree. Each graduate fellowship provides tuition plus a stipend. The principal criteria for fellowship selection are academic merit, creativity, research accomplishments and commitment to research.

ELIGIBILITY

Student must be a full time Computer Sciences graduate student in dissertator status who is conducting research within the department and is supervised by a computer sciences faculty member.

FELLOWSHIP SPONSORS

Computer Sciences graduate fellowships are a reality because of the generosity of our alumni and friends who have endowed them. The fellowships we award are:

• Anthony Klug NCR Fellowship in Database Systems
• Cisco Systems Distinguished Graduate Fellowships (2), preference given to U.S. Citizens
• Lawrence H. Landweber NCR Fellowship in Distributed Systems

Students must be nominated by a computer sciences faculty member. Nominations deadline vary by year. Each nomination includes:

• A nomination letter from the nominator detailing the reasons for the nomination (maximum of two pages)
• Two additional supporting letters from faculty
• Nominee’s CV
• Up to 3 publications authored or co-authored by the nominee

Nominations to renew an existing fellowship may also be submitted.

External Graduate Fellowships and Scholarships

NIJ Graduate Research Fellowship in STEM

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ), the research agency of the U.S. Department of Justice, is pleased to announce the release of the FY2018 solicitation, Graduate Research Fellowship in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. This program provides awards to accredited academic institutions to support graduate research leading to doctoral degrees in topic areas that are relevant to preventing and controlling crime, and ensuring the fair and impartial administration of criminal justice in the United States. Through the GRF-STEM program, NIJ supports research by promising doctoral students as they train to become the creators of future innovation. Each fellowship provides up to three years of support usable within a five-year period. For each year of support, NIJ provides the degree-granting institution a stipend of $35,000 usable toward the student’s salary and related costs, and up to $15,000 to cover the student’s tuition and fees, research expenses and related costs. Download the solicitation (PDF) for a full description. Find information on applying for these and other NIJ awards online.

Hertz Foundation Graduate Fellowships

For PhD students or those intending to pursue the PhD; open to U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Providing unique financial and fellowship support to the nation’s most remarkable PhD students in the applied physical and biological sciences, mathematics, and engineering.

IBM PhD Fellowship Nominations

Students must be nominated by a doctoral faculty member and must be a full-time student in a PhD program over the two consecutive academic years of the award or forfeit their fellowship. Nominations for the annual PhD Fellowship program begin the third week of September and are accepted for 5 weeks. This internship is for U.S. citizens only.

National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships

For U.S. citizens or permanent residents, NSF’s Graduate Research Fellowship Program recognizes and supports individuals early in their graduate training in STEM (Science, Technology, Education, and Mathematics) fields.

Churchill Scholarship

This award provides graduate study at Cambridge University, for U.S. citizens only.

National Defense Science & Engineering Graduate Fellowship

For U.S. citizens and nationals.

National Physical Science Consortium

Graduate fellowships for U.S. citizens only.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Summer Internship Program

Other Funding Resources

It is often possible for a CS graduate student to find a part-time job to help support the student while in graduate school. A wide variety of departments and projects on campus need help with both programming and administering computational resources. UW-Madison student jobs website contains listings of on campus jobs for students. Students should also consider contacting the Division of Information Technology (DoIT), as well as individual departments on campus for opportunities.

Outstanding students are strongly encouraged to apply for external scholarships. The Department maintains a list of opportunities with their application deadlines .

• Summer Internship/CPT
• Spring and Fall Internship/CPT

Click here for summer internship information for international MS/PhD students. 

Click here for spring and fall internship information for international MS/PhD students. 

Professional Conduct Standards

All students are expected to adhere to the highest standards of professional behavior and ethics. Students should avoid even the appearance of improper behavior or lack of ethical standards while in Graduate School at UW-Madison, in all professional settings, and in their personal lives. Students should conduct themselves according to the standards expected of members of the profession to which the student aspires. Concerns about infractions of professional conduct may be effectively handled informally between the instructor/advisor and the student. If a resolution is not achieved, a graduate program representative may be included in the discussion. Separate and apart from a violation of professional conduct, a student may face university disciplinary action with regard to the same action. Students are responsible for reading the information here, as well as the information published on all relevant websites. Lack of knowledge of this information does not excuse any infraction.

Professional Ethics

Students shall show respect for a diversity of opinions, perspectives and cultures; accurately represent their work and acknowledge the contributions of others; participate in and commit to related opportunities; aim to gain knowledge and contribute to the knowledge base of others; understand the UW Student Code of Conduct; represent their profession and the program; and strive to incorporate and practice disciplinary ideals in their daily lives. Resumes/CVs must reflect accurate information.

Honesty and Integrity

Students shall demonstrate honesty and integrity as shown by challenging themselves in academic pursuits; honesty and ethics in research and Institutional Review Board (IRB) applications–including honesty in interpretation of data, commitment to an unbiased interpretation of academic and professional endeavors; and the need to document research activities, protect subject/client confidentiality and HIPAA regulations. Students shall follow through and pull their weight in group activities and understand where collaboration among students is or is not allowed; not plagiarize others’ work or their own past work (self-plagiarism), cheat, or purposefully undermine the work of others; and avoid conflicts of interest for the duration of their time in the program. As a professional, honesty and integrity also extends to personal behavior in life outside of the academic setting by realizing that students are representatives of the program, UW-Madison and the profession as a whole.

Interpersonal and Workplace Relationships

Students shall interact with peers, faculty, staff and those they encounter in their professional capacity in a manner that is respectful, considerate and professional. This includes and is not limited to attending all scheduled meetings, honoring agreed upon work schedules, being on time and prepared for work/meetings, contributing collaboratively to the team, keeping the lines of communication open, offering prompt response to inquiries, and employing respectful use of available equipment/technology/resources. Chronic or unexplained absences are unprofessional in the workplace and could be grounds for termination or removal of funding. To facilitate the free and open exchange of ideas, any criticism shall be offered in a constructive manner, and the right of others to hold different opinions shall be respected.

Commitment to Learning

Students are expected to meet their educational responsibilities at all times. Be actively prepared for class and be ready for questions and answers. Be on time for every class and always show courtesy during class or if you have to leave class early. If possible, students should notify the instructor at least one day in advance of a planned absence. Students who are unable to attend class are responsible for finding out what occurred that day and should not expect instructors to give them individual instruction. Recognizing that the pursuit of knowledge is a continuous process, students shall show commitment to learning by persevering despite adversity and seeking guidance in order to adapt to change. Students shall strive for academic excellence and pursue and incorporate all critique, both positive and negative, in the acquisition of knowledge in order to understand and respect the community in which they work.

Professional Appearance

Students shall convey a positive, professional appearance in order to represent the program in a dignified manner. Appearance includes a person’s dress, hygiene, and appropriate etiquette/protocols for the environment (including safety protocols and protective clothing in environments that require them).

Academic Misconduct

Academic misconduct is governed by state law, UW System Administration Code Chapter 14. For further information on this law, what constitutes academic misconduct, and procedures related to academic misconduct, see: The Graduate School Academic Policies & Procedures: Misconduct, Academic. grad.wisc.edu/documents/misconduct-academic

Non-Academic Misconduct

Non-academic misconduct is governed by state law, UW System Administration Code Chapters 17 and 18. For further information on these laws, what constitutes non-academic misconduct, and procedures related to non-academic misconduct, see:

The Graduate School Academic Policies & Procedures: Misconduct, Non-Academic grad.wisc.edu/documents/misconduct-nonacademic

Research Misconduct

Graduate students are held to the same standards of responsible conduct of research as faculty and staff. Further information about these standards and related policies and procedures can be found at

Academic Policies & Procedures: Responsible Conduct of Research grad.wisc.edu/documents/responsible-conduct-of-research

Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Education Research Policies research.wisc.edu/compliance-policy

Hostile and Intimidating Behavior (Bullying) 

Hostile and intimidating behavior (HIB), sometimes referred to as “bullying,” is prohibited by university policy applicable to faculty, academic staff, and university staff. For further definition, policy, and procedures related to HIB see: hr.wisc.edu/hib . Students who feel they have been subject to HIB are encouraged to review the informal and formal options on the “Addressing HIB” tab of this website.

Dean of Students Incident Reporting (Hate, Bias, Sexual Assault, Hazing, Students of Concern, Bullying)

The Dean of Students Office maintains a portal to report incidents of hate, bias, sexual assault, hazing, dating/domestic violence, stalking, missing students, and students displaying other concerning behaviors at UW-Madison:

doso.students.wisc.edu/report-an-issue

In the Department of Computer Sciences, any student at UW–Madison who feels that they have been treated unfairly has the right to voice a complaint and receive a prompt hearing of the grievance. The basis for a grievance can range from something as subtle as miscommunication to the extreme of harassment.

Anyone in the Department of Computer Sciences—faculty, staff, students, visitors—may file a report.  More information on department reporting resources can be found on this website: https://www.cs.wisc.edu/report-an-incident/

Each college or program on campus has a grievance process that students can use to address other concerns regarding their experience in the program. This program’s grievance process can be found detailed at: https://www.cs.wisc.edu/report-an-incident/ .  Additional resources are found: https://guide.wisc.edu/graduate/computer-sciences/computer-sciences-ms/computer-sciences-computer-sciences-ms/#policiestext under the tab Policies and selecting drop down information for Grievances and Appeals.

• The Dean of Students Office provides advocacy, intervention, prevention, and referral services to the university community.
• The University Health Services provide counseling to students experiencing personal difficulties.
• Graduate School Director of Academic Services, Kipp Cox. Email: [email protected]
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University Catalog 2024-25

Department of computer science, undergraduate programs offered.

• Computer Science (major, minor)
• Computer Science and Mathematics (double major )
• Computer Science and Physics (double major)
• Computer Science and Statistics (double major)

Graduate Programs Offered

• Computer Science
• Software Engineering
• Digital Enterprise (certificate)

Degrees Offered

• Bachelor of Arts Degree (B.A.)
• Bachelor of Science Degree (B.S.)
• Master of Science (M.S.)
• Master of Software Engineering (M.S.E.)
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
• Graduate Certificate

Department Description

Advisers will provide students with personal attention in formulating programs with personal attention tailored to the interests and abilities of the individual student. For students with no computer experience, introductory courses are offered in the standard curriculum for majors. Students with some computing experience may contact the Department to arrange for an examination to receive credit for one or more of our courses (the student still registers and pays for the course, but does not have to attend or do any assignments or tests). It is possible for advanced undergraduate students to take graduate courses while completing the undergraduate program.

Graduates in computer science might choose a job in technology development, business, agriculture, industry, non-profit, education, research, or government. Their work might be in any of these areas: systems analysis, software development, security, information assurance, bioinformatics, Web development, networking, information system development, data base management, software systems, computer operating systems, game development, technical support, systems for process control, automation systems, simulation models, design and development of new computer systems, or management.

Graduates of the computer science program have recently accepted employment in major local and national businesses and industries. Many have chosen positions in North Dakota and adjoining states. With the wide use of computers and the Internet there is a growing need for computer specialists within North Dakota, the region, and the nation. Graduates are typically offered attractive starting salaries. Placement rates are high, and job prospects are projected to grow dramatically in upcoming years.

To be prepared to enter the Computer Science program, a student should have the usual college preparatory courses including at least three years of mathematics. Courses that develop the ability to think logically, to organize, and to analyze are especially important.

Students who have taken college-level courses or who have computer experience can have their work evaluated for possible departmental advanced placement. The results of an Advanced Placement test may be used also.

Assistant/Associate/Full Professor - Materials Science & Engineering

• Madison, Wisconsin
• COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING/MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGR-GEN
• Faculty-Full Time
• Opening at: Sep 6 2024 at 17:10 CDT

Job Summary:

Candidates will have a demonstrated record of academic achievement such as peer-reviewed publications and grant awards appropriate for the level of position being sought, exceptional potential in establishing a world-class research program in artificial intelligence and machine learning to accelerate the design of polymer systems, and a demonstrated commitment to high-quality and inclusive undergraduate and graduate teaching, learning, and mentoring. Assistant Professor candidates will have a PhD and at least 2 years of relevant research experience. Associate and Full Professor candidates must possess experience and scholarly credentials that meet the tenure standards of the UW-Madison Divisional Committee and of the College of Engineering.

Responsibilities:

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison seeks new faculty at any level in the area of artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI and ML) for the design of polymer materials. Areas of interest include but are not limited to the development of AI/ML for predicting polymer properties and in de nova polymer design, the design of functional polymers with specific properties, and high-throughput computational screening methods to guide experiments. Research complementing existing efforts across the College of Engineering in polymer synthesis, polymer upcycling and recycling, biopolymers, the materials science of soft materials, and advanced manufacturing is of particular interest. This position is part of the RISE-AI initiative, which seeks new faculty to expand upon UW-Madison's existing expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) with a focus on both the core scientific dimensions as well as the human-centered implications of AI. Successful candidates will teach and develop undergraduate and graduate courses for a diverse student body; supervise graduate student research and mentor graduate students; develop and direct a strong, funded research program; participate in departmental and university faculty governance; positively engage with an inclusive and collaborative department; contribute to professional and public service; and participate in interdisciplinary and collaborative efforts with other departments, schools and colleges.

Institutional Statement on Diversity:

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals. The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world. For more information on diversity and inclusion on campus, please visit: Diversity and Inclusion

Required PhD or equivalent degree in Materials Science and Engineering or a related field.

Qualifications:

At least 2 years of relevant research experience.

Full Time: 100%

Appointment Type, Duration:

Ongoing/Renewable

Anticipated Begin Date:

AUGUST 18, 2025

Negotiable ACADEMIC (9 months)

Additional Information:

This position is part of the Wisconsin Research, Innovation and Scholarly Excellence (RISE) Initiative, specifically the RISE-AI focus area. Through accelerated and strategic faculty hiring, research infrastructure enhancement, interdisciplinary collaboration, and increased student and educational opportunities, RISE addresses complex societal challenges of importance to the state, nation and world. Building on UW-Madison's strengths, RISE expands the University's successful track record of connecting with communities and industry on collaborative solutions. Over the next three academic years, UW-Madison will substantially increase current hiring levels, bringing 150 new RISE faculty to campus. Candidates hired through RISE will join a community of scholars working across disciplines, schools and colleges on research, teaching and outreach endeavors. The community will engage regularly in venues such as seminar series and colloquia to share ongoing projects and identify opportunities to work together. The University will support the community, facilitating access to research infrastructure, and funding to support broad and rich collaboration. Through the campus RISE hiring initiative and the College of Engineering RISE faculty hiring matching program, the College of Engineering will increase by nearly 50 tenure-track faculty members representing a more than 20% growth in the total faculty body. The RISE-AI hiring initiative will add 20 new faculty members to this vibrant community in the College of Engineering. The Department of Materials Science and Engineering in the College of Engineering at UW-Madison enrolls approximately 100 undergraduate students and over 100 MS and PhD graduate students from within the state of Wisconsin and from all over the world. The Department has 21 Primary Faculty, 42 Affiliate Faculty who can serve as advisors of MS&E graduate students, and multiple Teaching Faculty, Emeritus Faculty, and Instructional Staff. UW-Madison, College of Engineering, and MS&E are home to world-class, collaborative research efforts across materials, including in metals, electronic and optical materials, nanomaterials, advanced manufacturing, and polymers and biomaterials. The Department of Materials Science and Engineering and the College of Engineering are committed to ensuring that the diverse members of our community can thrive in our department and at UW-Madison, both within and outside the classroom and research lab.

How to Apply:

The application should include: 1) a cover letter, 2) a detailed curriculum vitae (CV) with full publication list, 3) a research statement of not more than five pages, and 4) a teaching statement of not more than two pages. The application should describe how the applicant's research and teaching goals fit the solicitation above. Please request three reference letters be submitted directly by the referees to [email protected]  before the deadline. The deadline for assuring full consideration is January 15, 2025, however, the position will remain open and applications may be considered until the position is filled. A criminal background check will be conducted prior to hiring. Employment will require an institutional reference check regarding any misconduct. To be considered, applicants must upload a signed 'Authorization to Release Information' form as part of the application. The authorization form and a definition of 'misconduct' can be found here: https://hr.wisc.edu/institutional-reference-check/

Paul Evans [email protected] 608-265-6773 Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.

Official Title:

Professor(FA020) or Associate Professor(FA030) or Assistant Professor(FA040)

Department(s):

A19-COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING/MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGR

Employment Class:

Job number:, the university of wisconsin-madison is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer..

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• Catalog Home
• Computer Sciences: Professional Program, MS

This is a named option with the  Computer Sciences MS.

The program is designed such that working professionals can complete the program and earn an MS degree within two years. Professional Master's students can take coursework in many areas: artificial intelligence, computational biology, computer architecture, computer graphics, computer networks, computer security, database systems, human–computer interaction, numerical analysis, optimization, performance analysis, programming languages and compilers, systems research, and theoretical computer sciences. The Professional Program's committee advises all computer sciences MS students in the Professional Master's Program. See the  department website  for faculty interests, research activities, courses, facilities, and degree requirements.

Please consult the table below for key information about this degree program’s admissions requirements. The program may have more detailed admissions requirements, which can be found below the table or on the program’s website.

Graduate admissions is a two-step process between academic programs and the Graduate School. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements of the Graduate School as well as the program(s). Once you have researched the graduate program(s) you are interested in, apply online .

Spring application is only open to pre-admitted Plus One Pathway applicants.

Applicants with a strong background in computer sciences or a related field are encouraged to apply for admission. At a minimum, the applicant should have some programming experience, including courses in data structures and machine organization, and should have a year of college-level mathematics at the calculus level or above. Applicants are evaluated based on their previous academic record, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. All applications must be submitted online. For more information on admissions, visit the  department website .

Graduate School Resources

Resources to help you afford graduate study might include assistantships, fellowships, traineeships, and financial aid.  Further funding information is available from the Graduate School. Be sure to check with your program for individual policies and restrictions related to funding.

Program Information

Students enrolled in this program are not eligible to receive tuition remission from graduate assistantship appointments at this institution.

Minimum Graduate School Requirements

Named option requirements.

Review the Graduate School minimum academic progress and degree requirements , in addition to the program requirements listed below.

Mode of Instruction

Mode of Instruction Definitions

Accelerated: Accelerated programs are offered at a fast pace that condenses the time to completion. Students typically take enough credits aimed at completing the program in a year or two.

Evening/Weekend: ​Courses meet on the UW–Madison campus only in evenings and/or on weekends to accommodate typical business schedules.  Students have the advantages of face-to-face courses with the flexibility to keep work and other life commitments.

Face-to-Face: Courses typically meet during weekdays on the UW-Madison Campus.

Hybrid: These programs combine face-to-face and online learning formats.  Contact the program for more specific information.

Online: These programs are offered 100% online.  Some programs may require an on-campus orientation or residency experience, but the courses will be facilitated in an online format.

Curricular Requirements

Required Courses

To obtain the MS degree, students in the Computer Sciences: Professional Master's Program (PMP) must complete a minimum of 30 credits distributed as follows:

• Fifteen credits must be received for core graduate-level courses: Computer Sciences ( COMP SCI ) courses numbered 700-889. Students in the program who enroll in instances of COMP SCI 838 , COMP SCI 839 , or  COMP SCI 880  must verify with the Professional Program Committee that the courses will satisfy program credit requirements.
• COMP SCI 799 Master's Research , COMP SCI 790 Master's Thesis (in case the student elects to write a Master's thesis), and COMP SCI 702 Graduate Cooperative Education can be taken for a combined total of at most six credits for the degree, and may only count in the 15 core credit requirement. COMP SCI 799 ,  COMP SCI 790 , and  COMP SCI 702 courses taken beyond six credits do not count towards the required degree credits. COMP SCI 702 can be taken a total of two times.
• All remaining credits must be received for Computer Sciences ( COMP SCI ) courses numbered 400 or higher.
• COMP SCI 900 Advanced Seminar in Computer Science and COMP SCI/​B M E/​B M I/​BIOCHEM/​CBE/​GENETICS  915 Computation and Informatics in Biology and Medicine can be taken for a combined total of at most three credits and count towards the remaining credits received for Computer Sciences ( COMP SCI ) courses numbered 400 or higher.
• COMP SCI 699 does not count toward program requirements. Students in the program are expected to enroll in  COMP SCI 799 for research credits, if desired.

More details about the sample course plan that allows a working professional to complete the PMP in two years, see the department website .

Students in this program may not take courses outside the prescribed curriculum without faculty advisor and program director approval. Students in this program cannot enroll concurrently in other undergraduate or graduate degree programs.

Graduate School Policies

The  Graduate School’s Academic Policies and Procedures  provide essential information regarding general university policies. Program authority to set degree policies beyond the minimum required by the Graduate School lies with the degree program faculty. Policies set by the academic degree program can be found below.

Named Option-Specific Policies

Prior coursework, graduate credits earned at other institutions.

This program does not accept graduate transfer credits from other institutions.  

Undergraduate Credits Earned at Other Institutions or UW-Madison

With program approval, students are allowed to transfer no more than 7 credits from a UW–Madison undergraduate degree. Coursework earned ten or more years prior to admission to a master’s degree is not allowed to satisfy requirements. This program does not accept undergraduate credits from other institutions.

Credits Earned as a Professional Student at UW-Madison (Law, Medicine, Pharmacy, and Veterinary careers)

Refer to the Graduate School: Transfer Credits for Prior Coursework policy.

Credits Earned as a University Special Student at UW–Madison

With program approval, students are allowed to transfer no more than 14 credits of Computer Sciences coursework numbered 400 or above taken as a UW–Madison University Special student. Coursework earned ten or more years prior to admission to a master’s degree is not allowed to satisfy requirements.

At the end of any regular (non-summer) semester, a student is considered to be making satisfactory academic progress (SAP) if the following conditions are all satisfied:

• The student has completed at least 6 (if full load) or 3 (if part load) credits of approved courses during the semester.
• The student has removed all Incomplete grades from any previous regular semester or summer session.
• The student has passed any required exams and procedures within designated time limits.

Any graduate student who fails to make satisfactory academic progress (SAP) during two consecutive regular semesters (fall and spring, or spring and fall) will be dismissed from the department at the end of the subsequent summer session. Any graduate student who fails to make satisfactory academic progress (SAP) due to missed deadlines (criterion 3 above) will be dismissed from the department at the end of the subsequent summer session.

Advisor / Committee

A member of the Professional Programs Committee must formally approve all graduate schedules each semester.

Credits Per Term Allowed

Time limits.

Refer to the Graduate School: Time Limits policy.

Grievances and Appeals

These resources may be helpful in addressing your concerns:

• Bias or Hate Reporting  
• Graduate Assistantship Policies and Procedures
• Office of the Provost for Faculty and Staff Affairs
• Employee Assistance (for personal counseling and workplace consultation around communication and conflict involving graduate assistants and other employees, post-doctoral students, faculty and staff)
• Employee Disability Resource Office (for qualified employees or applicants with disabilities to have equal employment opportunities)
• Graduate School (for informal advice at any level of review and for official appeals of program/departmental or school/college grievance decisions)
• Office of Compliance (for class harassment and discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence)
• Office Student Assistance and Support (OSAS)  (for all students to seek grievance assistance and support)
• Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards (for conflicts involving students)
• Ombuds Office for Faculty and Staff (for employed graduate students and post-docs, as well as faculty and staff)
• Title IX (for concerns about discrimination)

Students should contact the department chair or program director with questions about grievances. They may also contact the L&S Academic Divisional Associate Deans, the L&S Associate Dean for Teaching and Learning Administration, or the L&S Director of Human Resources.

Information on the Professional Master's Program is available on the Computer Sciences graduate degrees and programs page . 

• Professional Development

Take advantage of the Graduate School's  professional development resources to build skills, thrive academically, and launch your career. 

Program Resources

The Department of Computer Sciences hosts many professional development opportunities, including job fairs, workshops, seminars, talks, employer information sessions, mentoring, and student socials. The Department of Computer Sciences' student organizations, Student-ACM (SACM) and Women's ACM (WACM), are active partners in providing professional development opportunities for computer sciences graduate students.

Visit the CS website to view our department faculty and staff .

• Requirements

Contact Information

Computer Sciences College of Letters & Science https://www.cs.wisc.edu/

Kyle Martinez, Graduate Program Manager [email protected] 4294 Computer Sciences 1210 W. Dayton St., Madison, WI 53706

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