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The Graduate School at the University of Missouri–Columbia (Mizzou)

Doctorate in Computer Science

Official Graduate Catalog Entry: To the Index

Admission

Contact Information
Jodie Lenser ()
  • 201 Engineering Building West; Columbia, MO 65211
  • 573-882-3842
Computer Science admission page

Admission Criteria

  • Fall deadline: March 1
  • Spring deadline: October 1
  • Minimum TOEFL score: 577/233/90 (paper/computer/internet)
  • Minimum GRE score: V=25th percentile, Q=80th percentile, A=4
  • Minimum GPA: 3.4
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or computer engineering or an equivalent of a master's degree in computer science or a closely related field, each with a GPA of 3.4 out of 4.0.
  • Sufficient mathematics, computer science and/or computer engineering training

Required Application Materials

  • To the Graduate School (210 Jesse Hall; Columbia, MO 65211):
    • All required Graduate School documents
    • Written statement of purpose describing computer-related background, career goals and areas of technical interest (uploaded into the online application)
    • Minimum course requirement form (if applying without a BS in computer science), uploaded into the online application
  • Computer Science admission page:
    • GRE scores
    • 3 letters of recommendation

Additional information, including applications for financial support and information about specific GRE and TOEFL exam score requirements, can be obtained from the director of graduate studies, Department of Computer Engineering and Computer Science, 201 Engineering Building West, Columbia, MO 65211-2060.

Financial Aid from the Program

Some programs require an extra form or statement from those who wish to be considered for internal assistantships, fellowships or other funding packages. Check the program Web site or ask the program contact for details.

Fellowships, scholarships and teaching and research assistantships are available to qualified students. Applications must be received by March 1.

Graduation Requirements

All students completing a PhD degree must fulfill the following minimum requirements:

  • Complete all the course work requirements of the master’s degree in CS or have an MS degree in CS from another institution (excluding research and problems courses)
  • Pass a qualifying examination
  • Earn a minimum of 72 credit hours of course work and research past the student’s BS degree
  • Pass a comprehensive examination covering their areas of expertise
  • Complete a doctoral dissertation on a topic approved by the candidate’s advisory committee (12 hours of CS 9990)
  • Defend the dissertation in a final oral examination
  • Have at least one journal paper submitted, accepted or published, as approved by the adviser