Graduate handbook information is updated and maintained by each program. Graduate handbooks are available within each program's office and online at https://utexas.box.com/v/UTAustinGraduateHandbooks. Please contact the program with concerns or questions.

Master of Science

On-Campus. The Department of Computer Science offers two on-campus options for the Master of Science in Computer Science degree program. The thesis option requires 30 semester hours of coursework, which includes six hours in the thesis course. The option without thesis requires 30 semester hours of coursework.

Online. The Department of Computer Science also offers the Master of Science in Computer Science degree in an online format. The thesis option requires 30 semester hours of coursework, which includes six hours in the thesis course. The option without thesis requires 30 semester hours of coursework. All courses required for program completion are offered in accordance with University policies that govern non-formula-funded (Option III) degree programs. The online program is primarily designed for working professionals with coursework designed to broaden and deepen their knowledge in the field.

Five-Year Integrated Bachelor’s and Master’s Program. The Department of Computer Science offers an integrated program to enable currently enrolled, highly motivated undergraduate students with strong intellectual capacities to earn a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Master of Science in Computer Science within a five-year period. The integrated program is designed to prepare students for competitive doctoral programs and provide strong leadership skills and technical depth to students entering professional positions.

Doctor of Philosophy

The Doctor of Philosophy is a research degree for students who wish to pursue research careers in academia or industry. The main goal of the doctoral program is to prepare students to do outstanding research. Doctoral students take courses that provide the foundation on which to build their research programs, and are expected to become involved in research during their first semester and continue their involvement throughout their study at the University.

Students should complete all course requirements within a three-year period and maintain a grade point average of at least 3.00 in all computer science graduate courses. After application to candidacy, students must complete at least two semesters in residence. The Doctor of Philosophy degree requires a minimum of 30 semester hours of coursework, including dissertation hours.