Computer Science and Engineering PhD. In University of South Florida

Computer Science and Engineering PhD. In University of South Florida

The Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering at the University of South Florida is a research-intensive, interdisciplinary doctoral program that prepares students to become independent scholars and innovators in the tech space. Housed in the College of Engineering, the program is designed for those ready to take on advanced challenges in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics, machine learning, data science, embedded systems, computer vision, and more.

This program goes beyond coursework. Doctoral candidates at USF are expected to demonstrate scholarly competence through original, impactful research culminating in a formal dissertation defense. Students collaborate closely with faculty mentors and engage in leading-edge investigations across academia, government, and industry.

Throughout their journey, Ph.D. candidates complete core courses, electives, independent research, and dissertation credits. They must also pass a qualifying exam, write and present a major research-area paper, and successfully defend their dissertation.

Key research areas include:

• Algorithms, Data Mining, and Machine Learning
• Software and Systems Security
• Computer Architecture and VLSI Design
• Robotics and Embedded Systems
• Natural Language Processing and AI
• Image Processing and Brain-Computer Interfaces