Computer Science PhD at Northwestern University

Programme overview

The PhD in Computer Science is a research degree offered by the Department of Computer Science in the McCormick School of Engineering, built around the CS+X initiative and interdisciplinary faculty across the university. Students pursue original research in one of five tracks. All students receive support through assistantships or fellowships and begin with a first-year fellowship unless they opt out.

Faculty: McCormick School of Engineering | Department: Department of Computer Science | Study mode: full-time | Location: Evanston, IL, United States

What you will study

Students choose one of five tracks: Theory, Systems and Networking, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Interfaces, or Computer Engineering. Optional add-ons include a Cognitive Science Certificate (six courses), a Management for PhDs Certificate and the Crown Family Graduate Internship Program.

Career pathways

Graduates work in industry and research labs, academia and startups; alumni employers include MIT, Georgia Tech, Johns Hopkins, Adobe, Apple, Google, Intel and Microsoft.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Computer Science PhD: GRE scores are required for the 2026-2027 doctoral application. International applicants whose first language is not English need TOEFL iBT 90 or better (100 recommended), IELTS 7.0 or better, or MET 61 or better, unless they hold an undergraduate or graduate degree from an institution where English is the language of instruction. Admitted international PhD students must also meet The Graduate School's English proficiency requirement to be eligible for teaching assistant funding.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Graduate applications for 2026-27 open September 15, 2026; deadlines vary by programme. The Graduate School application fee is $95 and nonrefundable, paid by credit or debit card.

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