Main Content
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Advance Computing Knowledge Through Inquiry, Critical Thinking and Abstraction
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.
Upcoming Info Sessions
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Quick Facts
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 Directory (https://www.tacoma.uw.edu/set/facultyresearch) to find faculty contact information.
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Degree Information
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Program Details
All Ph.D. students 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.
Students must complete 90 credits:
- 40 credits required to obtain MSCSS degree with a Master Thesis:
- 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
- Choose from at least 3 different concentrations
- 30 credits of doctoral dissertation (TCSS 800)
In addition, Ph.D. candidates need to successfully pass:
- General examination
- Final examination
Learning Objectives
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.
Educational 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.
Current tuition information can be found 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:
| Credits | Resident | Non-resident |
| 7-18 credits* | $7,323 | $12,714 |
| 6 credits | $6,309 | $10,930 |
| 5 credits | $5,295 | $9,146 |
| 4 credits | $4,281 | $7,362 |
| 3 credits | $3,267 | $5,578 |
| 2 credits (minimum) | $2,253 | $3,794 |
Most applicable fees are included in the listed tuition rate, but some courses will require additional fees.
*For quarterly tuition costs for more than 18 credits, see the charts on the OPB website.
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Want More Information?
Want more information about the Ph.D. in CSS program? Fill out this brief Prospective Student Inquiry Form, and your Graduate Recruiter will reach out to you!
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Have Questions?
Have a question that isn't answered on this page? Send us an email to SetAcademics@uw.edu!
