Frequently Asked Questions about the PhD in Computer Science program at GMU

At a high level, what are the Admission Requirements?

The PhD requires a general GRE exam, and an undergraduate or graduate degree that includes sufficient academic preparation in Computer Science . Additionally, if you do not have an undergraduate degree in computer science, a GRE Computer Science Subject exam score is recommended. Non-native speakers will need to submit TOEFL scores as well. Generally speaking, the PhD requirements are more stringent than our MS requirements.

Do I need a Master's in CS to enroll in the PhD?

No: you can enroll directly from undergraduate. But once you are enrolled in the program, you will need to complete the equivalent coursework of a Master's in addition to the regular Ph.D work, and if you like you may pick up a Master's degree along the way as a result. Thus if you are planning on working towards a PhD, and can meet the entrance requirements, then there is no reason to apply for the MS first, and the PhD later: just apply directly to the PhD

If I have an MS already, is the PhD program shorter?

Yes. The course requirement for the PhD degree is 72 credit hours. Of these, at most 30 credit hours may be granted for an approved MS degree.

If I cannot complete my PhD, can I still get an MS?

Yes. If while in the PhD you have completed all the requirements for a Master's degree, you may receive a Master's degree instead.

If I am in a CS MS program, can I switch to PhD?

The PhD entrance requirements are more stringent than those for the MS. As a result, while you can freely shift from the PhD program to the MS program, you must apply to the PhD program to enter it, even if you are presently an MS student at GMU.

Do you offer Financial Aid for PhD students?

The GMU CS department typically has about 35 Teaching Assistantship positions and significantly more Research Assistantship positions available. PhD students are given strong preference for these positions, and at present most PhD students in need of an assistantship are being funded. Additionally, the PhD program offers one Presidential Graduate Fellowship per year.

Do you accept unofficial copies of GRE and/or TOEFL scores?

No. An unofficial copy of the score report is acceptable for application purposes, but upon recommendation for admission, an applicant will be required to submit an official score report. Note that delays in submitting official GRE and/or TOEFL scores will delay the processing of your application.