university of michigan computer science phd program

Doctorate degrees

You can apply to our PhD program with a master’s or just a bachelor’s degree, and our PhD students receive full funding, which includes a tuition waiver, monthly living stipend, and health insurance. Find out why you should get a PhD at Michigan .

All of our departments offer doctorate degrees, and we also have interdisciplinary PhD programs that help you make the most of broad expertise at the university.

See what we offer in the Engineering Course Guide and Bulletin.

Find Faculty

Aerospace Engineering

Applied Physics

Biomedical Engineering

Chemical Engineering

Civil & Environmental Engineering

Climate and Space Sciences & Engineering

Computer Science & Engineering

Design Science

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Engineering Education Research

Industrial & Operations Engineering

Macromolecular Science and Engineering

Manufacturing

Materials Science & Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering

Nuclear Engineering & Radiological Sciences

Scientific Computing

U-M Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI)

Research news

• With AV Challenge, engineers can put their decision-making algorithms to the test U-M’s Mcity will provide the first-of-its-kind city-scale virtual proving ground for competitors from industry and academia. The post With AV Challenge, engineers can put their decision-making algorithms to the test appeared first […]
• 2024 AAAS Fellows include three Michigan Engineering professors The Michigan researchers are honored for trailblazing work in targeted drug delivery, self-assembling nanostructures and unraveling the mysteries of solar storms. The post 2024 AAAS Fellows include three Michigan Engineering professors appeared […]
• Spatial atlas of the human ovary with cell-level resolution will bolster reproductive research Most human oocytes never get a chance to mature into eggs—a new study sheds light on why. The post Spatial atlas of the human ovary with cell-level resolution will bolster reproductive research […]

About the degrees

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) : Full-time five-year research-based program. Develops skills that apply to careers both inside and outside academia. We provide all PhD students with a tuition waiver, stipend and health insurance.

Doctor of Engineering in Manufacturing (DEng) : Graduate professional degree for students who have already earned both a bachelor’s degree in engineering and a master’s degree in any engineering or business discipline. Details in Michigan Engineering Course Guide and Bulletin .

Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS)

Among the leading departments of its kind in the nation, EECS is creating the technology that puts the “smart” into electronics. Our excellence and impact comes through in the work of our two divisions.

Computer Science and Engineering (CSE)

Home of one of the oldest and most respected programs in computation in the world, CSE is known for its engaging academics and high-impact interdisciplinary research. Our inclusive, supportive environment welcomes newcomers and underrepresented groups into this exciting discipline.

Explore CSE >

Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE)

ECE faculty and students are powering innovation by revolutionizing technologies to improve healthcare, the environment, sustainability, security, energy, transportation and space. All ECE programs, undergraduate and graduate, are ranked in the top 10 in the nation.

Explore ECE >

EECS at Michigan

Established. Respected. Making a world of difference. EECS undergraduate and graduate degree programs are considered among the best in the country. Our research activities, which range from the nano- to the systems level, are supported by more than $75M in funding annually — a clear indication of the strength of our programs and our award-winning faculty. With this combination of great resources and talent, EECS at Michigan is transforming and improving a wide range of fields that touch all of our lives.

Undergraduate Programs

Computer science & engineering.

BSE, Computer Engineering >

BSE, Computer Science >

BS, Computer Science (LSA) >

BSE, Data Science >

BS, Data Science (LSA) >

Minor, Computer Science >

Electrical & Computer Engineering

BSE, Electrical Engineering >

Minor, Electrical Engineering >

Graduate Programs

PhD, Computer Science & Engineering >

MS/MSE, Computer Science & Engineering >

MS, Data Science (LSA) >

Grad programs and Admissions in ECE >

PhD, Electrical & Computer Engineering >

MSE, Electrical & Computer Engineering >

MEng, Electrical & Computer Engineering >

News and Events

CSE News >

CSE Events >

ECE News >

ECE Events >

Tools for “more humane coding”

Prof. Cyrus Omar and PhD student David Moon describe their work to design more intuitive, interactive, and efficient coding environments that can help novices and professionals alike focus on the bigger picture without getting bogged down in bug fixing.

Snail extinction mystery solved using miniature solar sensors

The World’s Smallest Computer, developed by Prof. David Blaauw, helped yield new insights into the survival of a native snail important to Tahitian culture and ecology and to biologists studying evolution, while proving the viability of similar studies of very small animals including insects.

CSE Events > ECE Events >

David Chesney, champion of computing for the greater good, retires

Context matters, and Chesney has demonstrated this for us.

University of Michigan team partners with Semiwise to tackle cryogenic control electronics … technology

Prof. Dennis Sylvester and PhD student Qirui Zhang are working with UK-based company Semiwise Ltd. to design cryogenic circuitry and improve the efficiency of quantum computing.

Madelyn Gatchel receives 2024 CSE HACKS Spirit Award

The award recognizes Madelyn’s exceptional leadership, service, and embodiment of CSE’s values.

CSE News > ECE News >

EECS By the Numbers

PhD Applications

Phd admission recommendations, table of contents.

• Graduate Application Mentoring Program (GAMP)
• Deadlines to submit applications
• PhD application step-by-step
• Previous degrees required
• Course prerequisites/deficiencies
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• Letters of recommendation
• Additional information

Deadlines To Submit Applications

Application deadline for Fall 2024 PhD: December 10, 2023.

PhD applicants are only accepted for entry in the Fall semester.

PhD Application Step-by-Step

1. Fill out the application

Applying to U-M Ann Arbor (Rackham Graduate School Link)

2. Statement of purpose

Must include areas of interest in the top corner

3. Personal statement Some suggested topics for your personal statement are:

• Volunteer and/or community service;
• Extra-curricular activities;
• Leadership activities;
• Educational, cultural, geographic or socio-economic background underrepresented in your discipline of graduate study;
• Financial hardship;
• First generation U.S. citizen or first generation in family to graduate from a four-year college.

4. GRE scores

A GRE score is not required for applicants who apply for Fall 2024 PhD

5. Three letters of recommendation

If you apply online, we encourage you to submit your letters electronically. At least TWO of your letters should be from faculty.

6. Transcripts

Submit a transcript for each Bachelor’s, Master’s, Professional or Doctoral degree earned or in progress. For instructions on submitting transcripts, please see the  Rackham Graduate School website . Applicants will upload a copy of the official transcript and enter a “self-reported” GPA when applying online. Official paper transcripts/documents are only required if a student is admitted, and these must be submitted by the end of the first term of enrollment.

All credentials submitted for admission consideration become the property of the University of Michigan and will not be returned in original or copy form.

7. International applicants must also send

Include one set of: Official transcripts, certificates, and diplomas in the original language, in addition to an English translation.

TOEFL scores sent from ETS (institution code 1839)

8. Application fee

There is a $90.00 application fee for international applicants.  

Domestic and Permanent Resident applicants are eligible for an application fee waiver. This will automatically apply to your application.  

Undocumented or DACA Applicants are also eligible for application fee waivers here.

While very limited, in certain circumstances, International applicants may be eligible for an application fee waiver administered by the Rackham Graduate School. For information about eligibility criteria and instructions for various fee waiver programs, visit this page.

9. Decision notification

All applicants who are offered admission are notified via e-mail as soon as a decision is reached. PhD admission/financial aid offers will be sent via e-mail mostly during the months of February and March. Notification to applicants who do not receive admission are sent in early-April. The Graduate Admission Committee is working very hard to finish reviewing your application. Once an admission decision has been made by the committee, we will notify you by e-mail. Thank you for your patience.

Previous Degrees Required

Admission to the PhD program does not require a Master’s degree. Qualified students who hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering, science or mathematics may apply directly to the PhD program.

COURSE PREREQUISITES

Most of our classes require and assume that the students are knowledgeable in one or more of the following subjects: linear algebra, calculus-based probability, calculus-based statistics, and computer programming. If you are admitted to the Master’s or PhD programs, the department will provide a list of descriptions of University of Michigan courses frequently used to satisfy these prerequisites to help you ascertain your knowledge of the above topics, and, if needed, attain the necessary background. We will provide an opportunity to review the highlights of these subjects together with your fellow entering students before the fall semester begins. We will also recommend classes at the University of Michigan if you prefer to take them during your graduate studies.

Test Of English As A Foreign Language – (TOEFL)

• take the verbal and written English tests given by ELI (English Language Institute);
• report the results to the IOE graduate program advisor, and
• abide by any recommendation made by his or her counselor or the Graduate Program Advisor for remedial coursework.

Letters Of Recommendation

• Letters of recommendation should be submitted online, but hard copies may be submitted if that is not possible. Remember to add sufficient time for hard copies to reach us by the application deadlines.

Additional Information

Please send requests to:  [email protected]

The Doctoral Degree in ECE

PhD Program Coordinator

KRISTEN THORNTON [email protected] 3403 EECS 734-647-1758 Graduate Student Advising >

Documents + Forms

ECE Grad Handbook> ECE Program Manual > EE Manual (Fall 2015 or earlier)> EE:Systems (Fall 2015 or earlier) > Thesis Proposal Instructions > Thesis Proposal Form >

Deadlines and Additional Info

EECS Drop Deadlines > Candidacy Deadlines > Rackham Doctoral Degree Info > UMich Academic Calendar >

Plan of Study

Completing a Plan of Study form allows you to plan your courses to make sure you meet all the degree requirements. As you complete the form, please refer to the following information:

• All degree requirements must be letter graded (A-E) courses except for the “total credits” and “optional” degree requirements.
• Technical courses are engineering, math, statistics, and science courses.
• Entrepreneurship courses and AERO 585 are not technical courses.
• Math 404, 417, 425, 448, 450 or their cross-listed classes
• CPT credit (ENGR 998)
• ELI courses
• Courses with number 990, 995 or other course with “doctoral,” “dissertation,” or “preliminary” in the title

Qualifying Exam Information

You must apply prior to the examination date .

Deadline for application for ECE:

• August 10, 2023 for September 2023 Qualifying Exam 
• November 22, 2023 for January 2024 Qualifying Exam 
• April 6, 2024 for May 2024 Qualifying Exam

Application instructions will be emailed to you from the ECE Graduate Coordinators approximately 1 month before each deadline. 

September 2023 Quals : September 5 – September 18

January 2024 Quals : January 11 – January 29

May 2024 Quals : May 6 – May 24

Requirements

Step 1:  Complete coursework

• Refer to the graduate manual for course requirements.

Step 2:  Take and pass Qualification Exam

• Qualifying Exam Dates
• Qualifying Exam Guidelines

Step 3:  Advance to Candidacy

• Candidacy Deadlines
• Review ECE Graduate Manual for requirements

Step 4:  Complete Thesis Proposal

• Thesis Proposal Instructions
• Thesis Proposal Form

Step 5:  Complete Dissertation

• Degree/Defense Deadlines
• Dissertation Timeline
• Completing the Doctoral degree requirements

The complete doctoral requirements can be found in the program guide. See the Rackham Doctoral Degree Policies for more info.

Continuous Enrollment

In order to encourage timely completion of the degree, University policy requires doctoral students to register every Fall and Winter term until their degree is completed, with very few exceptions. That is, doctoral students cannot take time off from their studies, or pursue the later stages of their degree without registering, except in special circumstances.

Graduate Programs

Engineering Real-World Solutions

In this section

• Rackham Predoctoral Fellowship Program
• Master's Programs
• Automotive Materials and Design Engineering
• Automotive Noise, Vibration & Harshness (NVH)
• Automotive Powertrains
• Control Systems
• Electric Energy Technology
• Electrical System Analytics
• Electrical System Equipment
• Electrical System Planning
• Electrical System Protection and Control
• Engineering of Electrified Vehicular Systems
• Game Design
• Industrial Mechatronics
• Intelligent Systems in Engineering Applications
• Materials for Manufacturing
• Modeling and Simulations in Engineering
• Plastic and Composite Materials
• Program and Project Management
• Software Engineering
• Systems Engineering
• Vehicle Electronics and Controls
• Admitted CECS Graduate Students
• Advising, Registration, and Forms
• Tuition, Scholarships, and Funding
• CECS Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week
• Graduate Recognition and Doctoral Pinning Ceremony
• Path to Degree
• Academic Policies & Code of Conduct

University of Michigan-Dearborn's College of Engineering and Computer Science is a leader in providing quality graduate programs in an environment integrated with research, engineering practice and continuing professional education.  Our master’s and Ph.D. programs are taught by passionate, research-active faculty at the frontier of new technology. In CECS, we bring together theory and real-world experiences to develop innovative solutions to address the challenges of today’s ever-changing global economy.

Whether you are a recent undergraduate, full-time professional, or an international student wanting to expand your knowledge, pursue a career in academia, or advance your research career, we have flexible program options available for you. 

How To Reach Us

During Fall 2023 we'll be conducting university business in-person and virtually. Please email us today to set up an appointment.  

• D eidra Berry (2070 PEC) - Master's Graduate Program Manager   email : [email protected]    
• Tom Wesley (2060 PEC)- Doctoral Program Specialist  email : [email protected]   

Our in-person office hours are:

• Monday-Friday 8:00 am-5:00 pm

Office location is in the second floor of the PEC Building in 2060 & 2070 PEC.

Work hard and give your best. You will have a very bright future. Further, if you add devotion and honesty to hard work, people will recognize you as a Difference Maker. — Azeem Hafeez, ‘20 Computer And Electrical Engineering

Ready to learn more?

Admissions information, admission prerequisites, visit campus, cecs graduate education office contact:.

Brahim Medjahed

Deidra Berry

Thomas Wesley

Cecs graduate education office.

View by Degree

• Online Degrees
• Dual Degrees
• Aerospace Engineering MSE
• Applied Climate MEng
• Applied Physics Bridge Program
• Automotive Engineering MEng Online & On Campus
• Biomedical Engineering Masters MSE | MS | MEng
• Chemical Engineering MSE
• Chemical Engineering MSE + Sustainable Energy Systems MS
• Civil Engineering MSE
• Civil Engineering MSE + Sustainable Systems MS

Computer Science and Engineering MSE | MS

• Construction Engineering and Management MEng
• Construction Engineering and Management MEng + Master of Architecture
• Construction Engineering and Management MEng + MBA
• Construction Engineering and Management MSE
• Construction Engineering and Management MSE + MBA
• Data Science MS
• Design Science MS
• Electrical & Computer Engineering MSE
• Electrical & Computer Engineering MEng
• Energy Systems Engineering MEng Online & On Campus
• Engineering Education Research MS
• Environmental Engineering MSE
• Environmental Engineering MSE + Sustainable Systems MS
• Global Automotive & Manufacturing Engineering MEng Online & On Campus
• Industrial & Operations Engineering MSE
• Industrial & Operations Engineering MSE + MBA
• Macromolecular Science and Engineering MSE
• Manufacturing MEng Online & On Campus
• Manufacturing MEng + MBA
• Materials Science and Engineering M.S.E.
• Mechanical Engineering MSE
• Mechanical Engineering MSE + Master of Management
• Mechanical Engineering MSE + Sustainable Systems MS
• Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering MSE
• Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences MSE
• Robotics MS
• Smart Infrastructure Finance MEng
• Space Engineering MEng
• Structural Engineering MEng
• Systems Engineering + Design MEng Online & On Campus

Contact Computer Science and Engineering Admissions

Jasmin Stubblefield

Graduate Programs Manager

• csegradstaff@umich.edu

Quentin Stout

Master’s Program Chair

• qstout@umich.edu

Computer Science and Engineering at Michigan Statistics

Computer Engineering - US News & World Report

in Computer Science - US News & World Report

faculty-to-master’s student ratio

research expenditures

female students (FA22)

students from around the world 80% out of state 58% international

Why Computer Science and Engineering at Michigan?

Earning your master’s in CSE from Michigan means flexibility and attention–

you: are free to customize your own core curriculum of technical courses; can choose to engage in research or a guided study; can pursue an optional master’s thesis; and will always have close access to faculty to get valuable insight into these decisions.

What can you do with a Master’s in Computer Science and Engineering?

A master’s in CSE offers a big return on a relatively small time investment – beef up your computing skillset and get a career boost with only 1-2 years of schooling.

Most students take on this degree for earlier access to the field’s most competitive salaries. CSE at UM provides students with close access to faculty, the opportunity to engage in compelling research and complete a master’s thesis, and a curriculum built on a focused base of advanced technical courses. Students will explore broad areas of high-level computing, with coursework in artificial intelligence, hardware, software, theory, and more.

Research Thrusts

A thesis is not required for the master’s in Computer Science and Engineering; however, the option to complete one is available for students in good academic standing.

Students are encouraged to take advantage of directed study and become involved in research as part of their MSE experience.

CSE research generally falls into one or more of our 12 research areas:

Artificial Intelligence

Chip Design, Architecture, & Emerging Devices

Databases & Data Mining

Embedded & Mobile Systems

Human-Computer Interaction

Formal Methods & Automated Reasoning

Languages, Compilers, & Runtime Systems

Networking, Operating Systems, & Distributed Systems

Secure, Trustworthy, & Reliable Systems

Theory of Computation

Warehouse-Scale & Parallel Systems

Courses Offered

Apart from core course requirements, course requirements in the “breadth” areas of software, hardware, artificial intelligence, and theory must also be satisfied. Individualized plans of study will be developed by students in consultation with a faculty advisor.

Sequential Undergraduate/Graduate Studies Program (SUGS)

Current University of Michigan engineering students can complete both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in as little as five years under the SUGS program by taking some graduate-level classes towards the end of their undergraduate years. This allows students to save themselves one semester and complete a master’s with only two additional semesters.

Practice Your Purpose

There is a rich variety of experiential learning opportunities to help you find your niche, connect with people who share your passion, and gain hands-on experience that’ll set your resumé apart from the stack.

Graduate Student Orgs

Computer Science and Engineering Graduate Student Organization

Ensemble of Computer Science and Engineering Ladies+

Professional Development

Engineering Career Resource Center (ECRC)

Tau Beta Pi

Graduate SWE

Graduate Society of Black Engineers and Scientists

Computer Science and Engineering Research

Research Videos

Alumni bios.

Each of these alumni were once in your shoes, deciding on a master’s degree. Explore their educational path and how it set their life in motion.

MS in Computer Science and Engineering, 2015

Health[at]Scale

Lead Machine Learning Software Engineer

Eric Vander Weele

MSE Computer Science and Engineering, 2010

Bloomberg L.P.

Engineering Manager

Helen Hagos

MSE Computer Science and Engineering, 2016

Menlo Innovations

Software Developer and Consultant

Henry Velick

MSE Computer Science and Engineering, 1988

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Katie Matton

MSE Computer Engineering, 2019

University of Michigan

Research Assistant, CSE

Shrenik Mehta

MSE Computer Engineering, 1984

SafeSecureAI LLC

National University of Singapore, BE Mechanical Engineer

University of Michigan, MS in Computer Science and Engineering, 2015

Career Summary

I pursued research with Michigan faculty, who then went on to found the leading machine learning applied to healthcare startup in the Bay Area. I transitioned into the startup naturally during my graduate education at UoM.

Reflection on Time Spent at U-M

The opportunity to get involved in applied research really helped prepare me for problems in industry as well as the best ways to solve them. This to me was uniquely Michigan!

University of Michigan, BSE Computer Science w/ Mathematics Minor, 2008

University of Michigan, MSE Computer Science and Engineering, 2010

Since this article – https://news.engin.umich.edu/2017/05/eric-vander-weele-building-bloomberg-lp/ , I have moved back to NYC in 2019 to where I continue to run the Python Infrastructure team and have taking on more responsibility to push forward new initiatives.

How does your Master’s degree differentiate you from others?

The skills I acquired and honed during my masters degree set me apart from my peers. Specifically, the critical analysis and thinking skills helped me differentiate sense from nonsense and to really decompose large complex problems/systems. I’ve learned that it is best to always fully understand the problem to its core before determining what the solution and strategy should be to solve it.

Advice to Students

I love running, Bikram yoga, and going to my family’s lake house in Michigan. I was a HKN and DKE fraternity member — my lifelong friends are still from these two organizations. My advice for students: Being able to differentiate sense from nonsense will give you the clarity to better understand the problem and discover the solution quicker. Also, no solution is perfect: Understand the trade-offs you are making and, more importantly, why you decided to make those trade-offs.

Addis Ababa Institute of Technology, BSc Electrical and Computer Engineering, 2011

University of Michigan, MSE Computer Science and  Engineering, 2016

I moved from Ethiopia to Ann Arbor to attend the MS program at University of Michigan. Since I have a strong interest in the cross section of technology and the mental health space, I became a web developer for the Healthy Minds Network – a research team that works on adolescent mental health at the School of Public Health. Then I joined Menlo Innovations, a custom software development and organizational transformation company. We work across different domains and various technology stacks for projects.This requires finding solutions that are uniquely suited for each product’s particular context. The problem-solving skills I learned while working on research-based projects during my MS continue to help me approach such problems from various angles to find an optimal solution. 

Some of my favorite experiences were participating in interdisciplinary programs. I tremendously enjoyed collaborating on a project focused on sustainability as part of the Dow Sustainability Fellows program, and taking cognate courses at the School of Social Work. UofM has many interdisciplinary opportunities and offerings. My advice is to take advantage of these opportunities in your areas of interest. I met great people who later helped me in my career trajectory through that route. 

University of Arizona, BS Mathematics, 1979

University of Arizona, BS Philosophy, 1979

University of Michigan, MSE Computer Science and Engineering, 1988

I have been developing software professionally since 1979, where I concentrated mostly in UI and graphics. In 1986, I enrolled at U-M because there was a professor there I had always wanted to work with. Got my MS in Artificial Intelligence in 1988. Since then, I’ve had many jobs for which I was qualified without the Master’s. I’ve never used it professionally, but I’m very glad to have studied for it.

Looks great on paper!

Do what you love, the money will follow.

University of Michigan, BS Computer Science, 2018

University of Michigan, MSE Computer Engineering, 2019 

MIT, PhD Computer Science, joining Fall 2020

My education as a computer science student at the University of Michigan has opened up numerous opportunities for me. During the summers following my sophomore and junior years, I interned at Microsoft as a software engineer. This provided me with valuable experience in working with large codebases and writing production-level code. However, I found that I wanted to work on projects that had more of an emphasis on exploring new methods and ideas. Therefore, my senior year I decided to get involved in research, and I joined the Computational Human Artificial Intelligence (CHAI) research lab led by Professor Emily Mower Provost. I’ve now been working in Emily’s lab for more than two years – first as an undergraduate, then while pursuing my master’s degree in computer science, and now as a full-time research assistant. My research experience has been incredibly rewarding and intellectually stimulating, and I have grown immensely from it. I’ve learned how to formulate interesting and relevant research questions, how to reason in the face of uncertainty and ambiguity, how to solve technically challenging problems, and how to present my work in a clear and engaging manner. My experience has also motivated my decision to pursue a PhD in computer science. I will start at MIT’s program next fall, and I feel confident that my educational experiences at Michigan have thoroughly prepared me to excel in this new role.

I think the primary way my master’s degree has helped me to differentiate myself is through the research experience I’ve gained and the connections I’ve built with professors throughout my time in the program. My master’s research experience was instrumental in enabling me to prepare strong essays for my PhD applications in that it gave me interesting and technically challenging research projects to discuss. My research experience also provided me with a much clearer understanding of what types of research projects would be interesting and meaningful to work on in the future, which helped me to articulate a compelling vision for future research directions. Additionally, I think that strong recommendation letters from esteemed faculty at the University of Michigan helped to differentiate me from other candidates applying. During my time as a master’s student, I made an effort to develop strong relationships with my research advisor and with the professors whose classes I took, so I had several faculty members who were happy to write me strong letters of recommendation for my application.

My favorite student org that I joined as a master’s student is ECSEL+, a group focused on supporting women and gender minorities in CSE. The group organizes fun social events like movie nights and trips to different places around Ann Arbor, and I found that it was great way to make friends in CSE. My favorite graduate classes were Advanced Artificial Intelligence, Deep Learning, and Advanced Data Mining. My advice to master’s students is to take advantage of the amazing community of students and faculty that you are a part of as a graduate student. By engaging with your peers and getting to know your professors, you can learn so much and build relationships that last far beyond your time as a student.

IIT-BHU Varanasi, BTech Electrical Engineering, 1983

University of Michigan, MSE Computer Engineering, 1984

After graduation, I started my career as Design Engineer at AMD working on graphics and networking chips in the Bay Area. Joined a startup Nexgen Microsystems to design X86 microprocessors. I worked almost 20 years at Sun Microsystems working on SPARC microprocessors. I contributed to multiple projects at Sun and eventually got involved in impacting the industry by helping develop industry standards. Today, I work at the intersection of functional safety, cybersecurity and AI for autonomous vehicles.

The Master’s degree provided deeper knowledge in the emerging field of VLSI, Computer Systems, Hardware and Software. The broad but cutting edge curriculum provided a good foundation.

I have always valued my Michigan education experience, the rigor, the broad course offering, hands on project/lab experiences, living in a college town community, Uno’s pizza, the shuttle bus ride between the two campuses, Michigan Union, the Football games and working/studying in the libraries.

Industries & Occupations

• Computer systems design
• Software industry
• Scientific research
• Federal Government
• Data Processing, Hosting, and Internet Services
• Computer hardware industry
• Business consulting and management
• Financial Institutions

• Electronic Arts
• Ford Motor Company
• General Motors
• JP Morgan Chase
• Lockheed Martin
• Motorola Solutions

Discover the value of a master’s degree!

On average, UM graduates with a master’s degree in an engineering field can earn 15-25% more than those with a bachelor’s degree in engineering.  Use the links below to research average salaries based on a UM engineering master’s degree, experience level, and desired work location.

• Computer Hardware Engineers
• Computer and Information Research Scientists
• Computer Network Architects
• Computer Programmers
• Software Developers
• Network and Computer Systems Administrators

• Department Home Page
• Career Resource Center
• CSE Student Organizations
• Engineering Student Life
• Rackham Student Life

Best Computer Science Schools

Ranked in 2024, part of Best Science Schools

Earning a graduate degree in computer science can lead

Earning a graduate degree in computer science can lead to positions in research institutions, government agencies, technology companies and colleges and universities. These are the top computer science schools. Each school's score reflects its average rating on a scale from 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding), based on a survey of academics at peer institutions. Read the methodology »

• Clear Filters

Your browser is ancient! Upgrade to a different browser to experience this site.

• MD | PhD Program
• Master's Programs
• PhD Programs
• Postdoctoral Fellows
• Residency & Fellowship
• Non-Degree Programs
• Visiting Students
• Campus Life at U-M
• Health & Wellness
• Building Your Community
• Accessibility & Disability
• Departments
• Centers & Institutes
• Interdisciplinary Programs
• Facts & Figures
• Medical School Leadership
• Research at the U-M Medical School
• News & Stories
• Requirements
• Interview Day
• Admissions Chats
• AAMC Michigan's 35 Answers
• AAMC Michigan's 10 Financial Aid Answers
• Admitted Students
• Overview & Highlights
• Patient Interaction
• Chief Concern
• Years 3 & 4
• Learning Informatics
• Training Sites
• Leadership Program
• Global Health & Disparities
• Health Policy
• Healthcare Innovation
• Medical Humanities
• Patient Safety & Quality Improvement
• Scientific Discovery
• Doctoring Course
• Evidence-Based Medicine
• Interprofessional Education
• DEIAJ Curriculum
• Language Opportunities
• Curriculum Diagrams
• Grading & Assessments
• Guideline Budget
• Loans & Eligibility
• Financial Aid Application Timeline
• Scholarships & Grants
• Documents & Forms
• Tips & Links
• Tuition Refund Policies
• Consumer Information
• Disbursement & Repayment
• MD Emergency Student Aid Fund
• MD Travel Grant
• Child Care Subsidy
• Residency Interviewing Loans and Resources
• Short-Term University Loan
• Contact the Office of Financial Aid
• Profiles & Demographics
• Culinary Connections
• Students with Disabilities
• Arts & Humanities
• Diversity & Health Equity
• Dual Degrees
• More Possibilities
• Commencement
• Available PhD Programs
• Academic & Social Events
• MSTP Fellows
• Application Process
• Application Requirements
• MD | PhD Curriculum
• Undergrad Summer Program
• Contact the MD | PhD Program
• Bioinformatics
• Biological Chemistry
• Cancer Biology
• Cell & Developmental Biology
• Cellular & Molecular Biology
• Genetics and Genomics
• Health Infrastructures & Learning Systems
• Microbiology & Immunology
• Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology
• Molecular & Cellular Pathology
• Molecular & Integrative Physiology
• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Recruitment Events
• Interview Weekends
• Certificates & Dual Degrees
• Quantitative & Computational Biology Emphasis
• Training Grants
• Facilities & Resources
• Stipend & Benefits
• Professional Development
• Finding a Position
• Funding Your Postdoc
• Hiring Process
• Postdoc Preview
• International Postdocs
• ACGME Fellowships
• Non-Accredited Fellowships
• Postdoctoral Physician Scientist Training
• Salary & Benefits
• Prerequisites
• Visiting Residents & Fellows
• Application Overview & Requirements
• Tuition & Fees
• Timeline & Curriculum
• Information Sessions
• Program Details
• Undergrad Summer Research
• First Days Survival Guide
• Health Services
• Mental Health
• Health, Spirituality & Religion Program
• For Partners & Families
• Things to Do in Ann Arbor
• Getting Around
• Graduate Medical Education
• Office of Continuing Medical Education
• Office of Faculty Affairs & Faculty Development
• Office of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies
• Physician Scientist Education & Training
• Office of Medical Student Education
• Points of Blue
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
• Department Outings
• PhD Program
• Accelerated MS Program
• PhD | MS Dual Degree Program
• Course Descriptions
• BIDS Training Program
• Proteogenomics Training Program
• Student Organizations
• Applications to Complex Genetic Diseases
• Biomedical Data Science, Translational Bioinformatics & Pharmacogenomics
• 4D Nucleome
• Genomics, Regulatory Genomics & Epigenomics
• Methodological Development in Computational Biology
• Multi-“omics” Integrative Bioinformatics
• Protein Structure, Proteomics & Alternative Splicing
• Systems Biology & Networks Analysis
• Software & Bioinformatics Tools

The Bioinformatics PhD Program is well established, with a long history of successful graduates in both academia and industry.  

• How to Apply
• Application Materials
• Funding Sources
• Transition from Master's to PhD
• Frequently Asked Questions

To apply for the Bioinformatics PhD Program, you must submit complete applications by December 1 for admission the following Fall term. Early applications are not allowed and will not be considered. 

Please visit the Rackham Graduate School web pages for additional information on applying. There you will also find information on how to respond to an offer of admission, plus tips and materials required for international applicants and incoming students.

If you are certain about pursuing a Bioinformatics PhD, then applications should be submitted directly to the Bioinformatics PhD Program ; there are more than 100 diverse affiliated faculty to choose from.

Applicants should be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. In addition, applicants with a background in quantitative sciences should consider applying directly. Separately, if you are transferring from another University of Michigan Program or have obtained an established University of Michigan mentor affiliated with the program, a direct application is most appropriate.

PIBS is an umbrella program that offers first-year PhD students flexibility in exploring opportunities in bioinformatics and thirteen other graduate programs. Through PIBS, students have the opportunity to rotate in, and potentially join the lab of a faculty mentor in another program; there are more than 500 diverse faculty to select from. PIBS students who list Bioinformatics as their primary choice must complete at least one rotation with a Bioinformatics-affiliated faculty member. After 10 months in PIBS, students officially join Bioinformatics (or one of the other programs). You can visit the PIBS website for more information.

Please note that reviewing admissions faculty for both PIBS and direct applications are the same. In addition, admitted applicants take the same Bioinformatics-specific courses and activities. See below for details on program diversity outreach, application materials, and funding.

Students who will have an MS in a relevant field (e.g. computer science, statistics, biostatistics, biology) from another university may request to have up to 6 credit-hours (two classes) waived. These classes may be used to help fulfill the core PhD requirements for biology (1 course), statistics (2 courses), and/or computing (1 course). To obtain approval, students need to send a detailed syllabus of the class(es) they took to the PhD directors along with their grade(s), which must be a B or better. The other PhD course requirements, including BIOINF-529 and two advanced bioinformatics courses, cannot be waived.

Most international Bioinformatics PhD applicants should apply through PIBS. However, some who are already embedded in a University of Michigan mentor lab affiliated with the program may be an appropriate fit for the direct Bioinformatics PhD program.

The TOEFL or IELTS exam is required unless Rackham Graduate School waiver requirements have been met. Criteria for English proficiency exemption can be found on the Rackham website . In addition, a list of required credentials from non-U.S. institutions for an application can be found here.

The Bioinformatics Graduate Program encourages applications from traditionally underrepresented minorities, students with disabilities, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. There are numerous funding opportunities and resources on campus to contribute to students overall well-being while pursuing studies. Several resources available to students can be found on the Rackham Graduate School Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion website .

We find a new reason to love Ann Arbor nearly every day — year-round outdoor activities, cultural experiences, a growing food scene, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere are just a few that come to mind. Explore all that Ann Arbor and our surrounding communities have to offer. 

All application materials should be submitted electronically when possible. Applicants must meet  Rackham's Minimum Requirements for Admission . The  online application form  can be found on the Rackham Admissions webpages. The application is available in early September through the deadline. 

• GPA, minimum 3.2/4.0 (exceptions may be made if deemed appropriate)
• Letters of recommendation (3 required): Please be aware that submitting only the Rackham Recommendation for Admission Form is insufficient; forms must be accompanied by a letter from the recommender. All letters are due by the application deadline. Without them, applications will not be considered complete or reviewed by the Program Admissions Committee.
• Statement of Purpose: The Statement of Purpose should be a concise, well-written statement about your academic and research background, your career goals, and how Michigan's graduate program will help you meet your career and educational objectives.
• Personal Statement: The Personal Statement should be a concise, well-written statement about how your personal background and life experiences, including social, cultural, familial, educational, or other opportunities or challenges, motivated your decision to pursue a graduate degree at the University of Michigan. This is not an Academic Statement of Purpose, but a discussion of the personal journey that has led to your decision to seek a graduate degree.
• Transcripts: Please submit unofficial transcripts electronically with your online application
• GRE scores are no longer included as part of admission
• Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency via either the TOEFL or IELTS exam. The institution code is 1839. Other exams may not be substituted. Rackham Graduate School offers a full explanation of this requirement , including exemption criteria. Please contact Rackham directly ( [email protected] ) with questions.

Diversity is a key component of excellence, especially for solving the complex biomedical challenges that our field of computational medicine and bioinformatics faces. We believe that all people—regardless of background, race, religion, sexual/gender orientation, age or disability—deserve an equitable opportunity to pursue the education and career of their choice.

The Bioinformatics Graduate Program will provide tuition, healthcare coverage, and a stipend on a 12-month basis. This level of support will be maintained throughout a student's tenure in the Program, provided s/he remains in good academic standing and makes reasonable progress towards the degree as determined by the Graduate Directors, with faculty input. It is expected that the student will be supported directly by the mentor's laboratory, beginning in the second year. The expected time to degree is typically 5-6 years.

The U-M MS program is a terminal degree program. If you are interested in the Bioinformatics PhD Program, you must submit a new application. If you are a Bioinformatics MS student who is in good academic standing and has identified a Bioinformatics affiliated faculty mentor, you may apply for admission directly to the PhD Bioinformatics Program for the Winter term. Reviewing faculty take all application components into account and mentors are prepared to take both academic and financial responsibility for their trainees.

Eligibility: Only current or recently graduated University of Michigan Master’s students are eligible. Before applying, students must have completed more than half of all required courses, with at least six credits from the Bioinformatics Program.

Application deadline: October 1

The online application form can be found on the Rackham Admissions webpages. The application is available in early September through the deadline.

• Letters of recommendation: Please be aware that submitting only the Rackham Recommendation for Admission Form is insufficient; forms must be accompanied by a letter from the recommender. If you wish to include three letters from your original application, only one additional letter is needed. It must be from the DCMB faculty member who will serve as your primary mentor. The letter should state clearly that the mentor takes responsibility for your funding upon admission. Alternatively, you may wish to obtain three new letters of recommendation. The Admissions Committee strongly encourages you to include letters from those familiar with your research and coursework obtained while pursuing your Master’s degree. Of these, one must be from the faculty member who will serve as your primary mentor. The letter should state clearly that the mentor takes responsibility for your funding upon admission.
• Statement of Purpose: The Statement of Purpose should be a concise, well-written statement about your academic and research background, your career goals, and how the PhD Program will help you meet your career and educational objectives.
• Transcripts: Only a current, unofficial U-M transcript is necessary. You do not need to re-submit materials included with your Master’s application.
• TOEFL: If you submitted TOEFL scores when applying to the Master’s Program, additional test scores are not needed.

Bioinformatics consists of a mathematical and/or statistical analysis of a biomedical problem using computation. We define bioinformatics widely and include traditional bioinformatics areas such as for examples, systems biology, genomics, proteomics, plus statistical and evolutionary genetics, clinical informatics, and protein modeling.

As an interdisciplinary field, Bioinformatics attracts graduate students from mathematics, statistics, physics, computer science, biomedical engineering, chemistry, biochemistry and biology. Most incoming students have both a major in one and a minor in another discipline. In recent years students have entered with undergraduate training in bioinformatics or computational biology.

Each student obtains individual counseling by one of the two graduate program directors upon arrival and throughout their academic career. As Bioinformatics is still developing, new courses are added all the time. Current students are encouraged to contact the Program Directors about courses that may be relevant to their studies and are not listed on the website (esp. if they are new or infrequently offered).

In most cases, we recommend you apply to the PIBS program, as it provides flexibility in classes, funding, and a central admission for many biomedical programs. If you have no or very little biology background, please contact our Student Services Representative as to whether a direct application would be better. Current student who are considering transferring areas of study should also contact the Bioinformatics Graduate Office.

There is no need to apply both direct and through PIBS, as the same committee sees your applications.

For most students, thesis work includes computing, reading, and writing. A small group also participates in wet laboratory work. Please check both the research areas and student webpages for an overview of the varied subjects addressed in research and student theses.

Many of our graduate students obtain academic postdoctoral fellowships and go on to faculty positions. Quite a significant number of graduates go into non-academic professions such as small or large biotech companies. Some have founded their own business, and others apply their analytical skills in companies unrelated to bioinformatics. For a current list of graduate placement, please visit the alumni pages.

No. If you want to get a PhD, directly apply to the PhD Program.

We transform lives through bold discovery, compassionate care and innovative education.

• Find a Doctor
• Conditions & Treatments
• Patient & Visitor Guide
• Patient Portal
• Clinical Trials
• Research Labs
• Research Centers
• Cores and Resources
• Programs & Admissions
• Our Community
• Departments, Centers & Offices
• About the Medical School

Global Footer Secondary Navigation

Master’s in CSE

The master’s degree in CSE is primarily intended for students desiring to substantially advance their knowledge and skill in a field or fields of CSE. The relatively small investment in time to get a master’s degree will lead to greater professional opportunities and significantly higher salaries (see Michigan Engineering employment data ).

Program overview

The master’s degree requires successful completion of 30 credits of coursework. A thesis is optional. Students normally complete the master’s degree in 1-2 years.

The complete master’s requirements can be found in the  CSE Graduate Program Guide (Google Doc) .

View a list of courses that satisfy the different MS degree requirements (Google Sheet) .

Students admitted to the master’s program may apply to the doctoral program. Admission depends on academic qualifications as well as the availability of openings in the doctoral program.

MS vs. MSE degree

The MS (Master’s of Science) and MSE (Master’s of Science in Engineering) degrees differ mainly in name. The degree requirements are the same. Students with a bachelor’s degree in engineering can elect either degree. Students without an engineering bachelor’s degree are eligible only for the MS.

Transferring credits

A limited number of graduate credits earned elsewhere can be transferred to meet the coursework requirements for the master’s degree. In addition, a course taken elsewhere that is equivalent to a course satisfying a degree requirement here can be used to satisfy the requirement, even if course credits are not transferred. However, such equivalancy will not reduce the total number of credit hours required.

Apply to a Master’s program

This page has information about graduate school admissions .

Financial aid information

The CSE Division has limited financial aid to award to master’s students at the time of application. On the other hand, master’s students occasionally receive a research or teaching assistantship after they begin their studies. Master’s students are encouraged to apply for fellowships from sources outside the University. See an overview of financial aid resources .

Graduate programs staff

Contact us with any questions about Computer Science and Engineering graduate programs.

[email protected]

• Request Info

• James C. Kirkpatrick Library
• Campus Maps
• University Calendars

University of Central Missouri's Online Master’s in Computer Science Program Achieves Top Rankings for Affordability and Overall Excellence

By Alex Greenwood, May 2, 2024

WARRENSBURG, MO — The University of Central Missouri’s online Master of Science in Computer Science program is ranked #5 for affordability in TechGuide's 2024 list of Online Master’s in Computer Science degree programs. This ranking highlights the program’s commitment to providing high-quality education at an accessible price point, placing it among the top 25 institutions nationwide for affordability and value.

In addition to its affordability, the program also secured the #12 spot on TechGuide's list for the Best Online Master's in Computer Science degree programs for 2024, further underscoring its excellence in the competitive field of technology education.

The University of Central Missouri's HLC-accredited online master’s in computer science degree equips students with the skills necessary to lead in the tech industry, where professionals are increasingly essential across all sectors. As the largest and one of the most affordable programs in Missouri, UCM offers specialized tracks in cloud computing, general computer science and software development.

This flexibility ensures that graduates are not only proficient in using technology to solve diverse practical problems but are also prepared to lead teams and innovate in their chosen fields. While the program's courses are primarily available in person, students have the flexibility to customize their program options by pursuing their degree entirely online , on a full-time or part-time basis, accommodating various schedules and career goals.

Learn more about the program at the website: https://www.ucmo.edu/academics/programs/masters-degrees/chst/comp-sci-and-cybersecurity/computer-science/computer-science-masters/index.php .

TechGuide, a leading technology education resource platform, is renowned for its comprehensive coverage and expert insights in the technology sector, featuring contributions from esteemed professors and professionals through its "Ask an Expert" series and podcast, which includes more than 50 episodes with tech industry professionals. Learn more: https://techguide.org/computer-science/online-masters-in-computer-science/

social-section