Computer Science (PhD, MS)

Program Overview

The Department of Computer Science offers programs leading to the Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees. Our programs are designed for students interested in pursuing research studies or careers in computer science and software engineering. Our curriculum provides students with a solid theoretical and practical foundation, while emphasizing experimental research to design and engineer a wide variety of computer and information systems. Funding is available in the form of teaching and research assistantships, as well as scholarships and work-study opportunities. Many of our assistantship positions include union and health benefits.

An undergraduate major in computer science or related field is desirable for admission. Typically, exceptional academic performance is valued in combination with professional work experience. Degrees in electrical engineering and information technology are acceptable as long as computer science was included in the curriculum.

Students applying to the PhD program typically have a master's degree in computer science or a related field. Students with a bachelor’s degree and a strong academic record may also be directly admitted. Students are encouraged to explore current faculty research specialities prior to applying.

Students with questions about these programs are encouraged to email the Department of Computer Science at applycs@binghamton.edu.

Degrees Offered

  • PhD in Computer Science
  • MS in Computer Science
  • MS in Computer Science: Artificial Intelligence
  • MS in Computer Science: Cybersecurity

Internships, Research Opportunities and More

The program curriculum is rigorous. Students are expected to be highly motivated and work closely with faculty to develop and implement research projects. As part of the department’s 14 laboratory groups supported by outside industries such as the National Science Foundation, students can take advantage of the University’s cutting-edge facilities for research in the following fields:

  • Computer systems
  • Graphics, image process and vision
  • Information systems
  • Networking and distributed systems
  • Security

During their course of study, many students pursue internships both on campus, in local areas such as New York City or even out of state. Watson Career and Alumni Connections offers professional advice and services such as interview guidance, cover letter critiques and networking opportunities.

After You Graduate

The Computer Science department has maintained a high professional placement rate for our graduates. Recent alumni have become software engineers at various IT companies such as Google, Facebook, Amazon, Twitter, Apple as well as many financial institutes such as Bloomberg, CitiGroup, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase. Some PhD graduates also join academia and become faculty members. Our recent graduates have become tenure-track assistant professors at major research universities such as the College of William & Mary, University of South Florida, and University of New Hampshire.

Admission Requirements

Funding/Scholarships

There are many funding and scholarship opportunities at Binghamton. We encourage prospective students to review available program-specific scholarships and awards, and visit the program's website for additional information. PhD students who are registered and/or certified full-time will receive a scholarship that covers the cost of broad-based fees (this does not include international student fees). Note: Master's students are generally self-funded, although funding opportunities occasionally arise.

For more information, visit the Computer Science website.

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