PhD in Big Data Analytics from University of South Florida

PhD in Big Data Analytics from University of South Florida

The PhD in Big Data Analytics at the University of South Florida is a STEM‑designated, interdisciplinary doctoral program. It is tailored for advanced analytics practitioners, researchers, and system-builders. Rather than just teaching data science in isolation, this program integrates algorithm development, large-scale system design, and coding expertise.

Students earn theoretical and applied skills—designing and evaluating big data systems that inform decision-making across social and organizational contexts. Faculty draw on expertise from fields like statistics, computer science, public health, psychology, information systems, and mathematics to deliver a uniquely unified curriculum.

The program also emphasizes cohort-based collaboration through joint research seminars and regular faculty advisory meetings. It encourages, but does not require, teaching assistantships for students aiming at academic careers.

Students typically complete all degree requirements—including a qualifying exam (a research project report plus code submission) and a defended dissertation—in around three years of full-time study. Note that GRE is required, and Fall admissions only, with a February 1 deadline.

Graduates emerge as versatile experts capable of building data-driven solutions while maintaining awareness of ethical, societal, and organizational impacts. They are ready for leadership roles in academia, industry, or public policy sectors. They are ready to be working on challenges like polarization, misinformation, and algorithmic fairness.