PhD Information Science at University of Pittsburgh

Programme overview

The PhD in Information Science explores the intersection of information and technology with interdisciplinary training and high-impact research, preparing graduates for careers in higher education and industry. Research areas include human-robot interaction, geoinformatics, data visualization, machine learning and health informatics.

Faculty: School of Computing and Information | Duration: 5+ years; 66 to 72 credits | Intake: Fall; next start August 23, 2027 | Location: Pittsburgh, PA, United States

What you will study

Minimum 48 credits including 30 course and seminar credits beyond a master's degree and at least 18 dissertation credits; students without a master's take at least 24 additional credits (72 beyond the bachelor's). A focus in telecommunications is available.

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Application information

Entry requirements

Application deadline January 15 (fall). GRE not required. Master's degree (or equivalent) with minimum GPA 3.3; exceptional students with a technical bachelor's may be admitted. Prerequisite graduate-level knowledge (may be completed in first four terms): statistics or discrete math, cognitive psychology or human factors, systems analysis and design, data structures, database management. Three letters of recommendation (two from professors), transcripts, CV and a statement of intent (max 1,000 words). International applicants: TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo taken within two years. Application fee $85 via GradCAS.

Domestic applicants: USD 28,824 a year (2026-27). Pennsylvania-resident graduate tuition, School of Computing and Information, full-time two terms (fall and spring). Tuition only; mandatory fees and other expenses excluded. Source

International applicants: USD 51,810 a year (2026-27). Out-of-state (non-PA resident) graduate tuition, School of Computing and Information, full-time two terms (fall and spring). Tuition only; mandatory fees and other expenses excluded. Source

Intake: Fall; next start August 23, 2027

Duration: 5+ years; 66 to 72 credits

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