Computer Science, PhD

Overview

The PhD in Computer Science is designed to cultivate a new generation of STEM researchers who will advance computer science theory and applications in both academia and industry, helping to fill a nation-wide shortage of doctorally-qualified, ethically grounded computer scientists. The program serves as an intellectual home within Yeshiva University and the field, fostering a culture of innovative, interdisciplinary research and contributing to the advancement of critical technologies in fields like healthcare, climate, energy, finance and security. 

The curriculum trains students in the depth and breadth of computer science, as well research methods and emerging research necessary for careers in university or industry R&D. Other unique program features include:

Interdisciplinary Research: Students will conduct interdisciplinary research and may work with faculty from across YU on their committees.

Future University Faculty: All students must complete a teacher training program and teach at least one graduate course under the mentorship of a faculty member and instructional designer.

Industry R&D: Students may request approval to work on industry-sponsored projects and include doctorally-qualified industry practitioners on committees, if there are no publishing restrictions.

The program is committed to providing access for promising scientists who align with Yeshiva University’s values and mission, and who are dedicated to making the world smarter, safer, and healthier. It prepares students for careers as computer science faculty in higher education or as researchers in industry R&D. Through a focus on interdisciplinary and applied research, the program fosters the development of cutting-edge innovations that address real-world challenges.

Requirements (66 credits)

To earn a PhD in Computer Science, students must complete 66 graduate credits, with a minimum of 36 credits at the 6000 level or above. The remaining 30 credits may be transferred from an accredited institution or drawn from relevant graduate courses at YU, with advisor approval.

Breadth Courses (30 credits)

It is expected that entrants will have a related master’s that includes prior computer science coursework in the following areas: advanced algorithms, emerging programming paradigms, theoretical computer science, AI/ML, and computer systems. If any of these areas were not covered or not covered within the last five years, equivalent graduate courses may be taken at the Katz School.

Depth Courses (21 credits)

A minimum of 21 credits must be 6000 level or above. Students may substitute other 6000-level courses from the school or other departments/universities, with approval.

COM 6002	Distributed Systems	3
COM 6003	Databases	3
COM 6004	Networking	3
COM 6005	Computer Vision	3
COM 6010	Reinforcement Learning	3
COM 6011	Application of Medical AI	3
COM 6012	Robotics	3
COM 6013	Quantum Computing	3
COM 6014	Generative AI	3
COM 6020	Topics in Computer Science	1 TO 3
COM 6021	Independent Study	3
COM 6022	Internship	1 TO 3

Research Courses (15 credits)

COM 6006	Research Methods in Computer Science	3
COM 6007	Research Seminar	1
COM 7000	Dissertation	.5 TO .6