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Software Engineering Ph.D. Program

Software and societal systems department, build it better....

Software is becoming ever more important to our daily lives, as well as every sector of industry.  But as software systems increase in capability, they increase in complexity, resulting in delays, defects, and vulnerabilities.

Our Ph.D. program in Software Engineering seeks to educate the next generation of high-impact software engineering research, development, and educational leaders who will solve the problems associated with building large-scale and critical software systems.  Learn about our groundbreaking research , our world-leading faculty , and our alumni who are already making a big difference in the world.  We hope you will apply  to our Ph.D. program  so you can join us in learning to build software better!

Don't Forget!

Applications to the Ph.D. program in Software Engineering are accepted every year with a deadline in  December. This year the application window is open  September 6th, 2023 - December 13th, 2023.

Learn how to apply

• Why Software Engineering?
• What are your research strengths?
• What will my course of study look like?
• What are the prerequisites for admission?
• How is this program going to help my career?
• How do I apply?

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Doctor of Philosophy in Software Engineering

Program description.

The PhD in Software Engineering program is tailored to the student. The student must arrange a course program with the guidance and approval of a faculty member chosen as their graduate advisor. Adjustments can be made as the student’s interests develop and a specific dissertation top is chosen.

The software engineering researchers in the Department of Computer Science are focused on issues related to effectively developing large-scale, complex systems. In particular, new categories of applications are emerging such as big data, cyber physical, and autonomous adaptable systems, which continue to drive leading edge research in software engineering on diverse topics. Key research areas include requirements engineering, architecture, design, service-oriented computing, testing and verification, static analysis, software maintenance and multi-agent systems.

Career Opportunities

Virtually all major companies and corporations need software related core competencies. Software engineers are central in developing and making use of these competencies. They work in teams that interface extensively with clients, company executives, IT managers, data scientists, security and domain experts.

Software engineering professionals are creative, highly collaborative, well paid, and in very high demand with employers. Graduates of the program seek academic positions at universities, as well as positions as researchers, senior software engineers and data scientists. Graduates often become industry experts in various fields like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, machine learning and natural language processing.

Marketable Skills

Review the marketable skills for this academic program.

Application Requirements

Test score required:  Yes

Deadlines:  University  deadlines  apply.

Admission Option One

• Degree requirements:  A master’s degree in computer science or its equivalent
• GPA:  Minimum of 3.5
• Test score:  Minimum revised GRE scores of 308, 153, 155, and 4 for the combined, verbal, quantitative and analytical writing components, respectively, are advisable.

Admission Option Two

• Degree requirements:  A BS degree in related area that includes two semesters of calculus and linear algebra.
• GPA:  Minimum of 3.5 in the last 60 semester credit hours.
• Test score:  Minimum revised GRE scores of 315, 156, 159 and 4 for the combined, verbal, quantitative and analytical writing components, respectively, are advisable.

Applicants are admitted on a competitive basis.

Contact Information

Admissions Email: [email protected]

Shyam Karrah Email: [email protected] Phone: 972-883-4197 Office: ECSS 4.704 Website: personal.utdallas.edu/~skarrah

Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science The University of Texas at Dallas, ECW41 800 W. Campbell Road Richardson, TX 75080-3021 Email: [email protected]

cs.utdallas.edu engineering.utdallas.edu

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Home › All Programs › Software Engineering (PhD)

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Software Engineering (PhD)

Doctor of philosophy.

of All Higher-Ed Institutions

-Center for World University Rankings, 2022

In Best Value Among Arizona's Public Universities

- Payscale, 2022

Quick Facts

College of Engineering

Program details.

The University of Arizona's College of Engineering has launched the Software Engineering PhD degree in response to the high demand for individuals trained in the software engineering discipline. The degree program is critical in driving student success in a rapidly changing world and tackling essential problems at the edges of human endeavor. 

As a student graduating with a PhD in Software Engineering, you will be better positioned to develop the skills and mindsets to be leaders in software development, computing, machine learning, ever-increasing automation and connectivity, human and intelligent systems, data science, and network sciences.

Through the PhD program, you'll demonstrate the ability to design, develop, test, integrate, and evaluate software applications/products/systems in diverse computing and engineering domains. You'll also be able to critically analyze and review published research results and other literature related to your area of study. You'll also demonstrate your ability to articulate all aspects of the research in your software engineering specialization area, describe and defend the significance of your work, explain your research methodologies, and summarize your findings. 

The global software engineering market alone will be worth $64 billion by 2025, and it is a vital part of a larger industry. Some factors behind this growth include increased automation in multiple sectors, the demand for cloud-based solutions, the Internet of Things, and an increased number of devices that can be used in daily life for convenience. Thus, pursuing a Software Engineering PhD will give you a competitive edge in this fast-growing industry.

No GRE is required for this graduate degree program.

A minor is required for this program and will be determined by the student and advisor.

Students who do not have a degree equivalent to the UArizona Bachelor of Science degree in a computing-related program may be admitted into the graduate program but may be required to complete additional graduate-level pre-requisite courses prior to enrolling in some graduate courses. 

Proficiency in one or more programming languages OR one to two years of industry experience in a software-related position is required.

*Residents of some U.S. Territories may not be eligible. Please see our Eligibility & State Authorization page for more information.

Courses for this program include: 

SFWE 502: Software DevSecOps

This course will allow you to explore key principles of a DevSecOps approach to software development. Development (Dev) and operations (Ops) are the union of people, processes, and technology to continually automate and develop higher-quality/more reliable software products faster. Security (Sec) is integrated into a typical DevOps pipeline to address potential security issues in code as soon as possible in the software development lifecycle.

SFWE 503: Software Project Management

In this course, you will learn how to plan, track, and communicate the status of large-scale software projects to a diverse group of stakeholders. Using modern traditional and Agile software development methodologies and tools and emulating a realistic software development project, students will be immersed in the activities used by industry to develop, manage, and monitor software product development throughout the semester. You’ll learn why planning a software project is important, what constitutes a good plan, how to adapt to the unexpected and unknowns that are likely to occur throughout the project development, and how to track and share the status of the project with your team members, other teams, and the customers/business managers.

SFWE 504: Software Requirements Analysis & Test

Learn how to derive and develop software requirements that are measurable, testable, and lead to a compliant software design and implementation. Using industry best practices and tools, you will learn how to elicit, analyze, specify, and validate functional requirements (what should the software system do) and non-functional software requirements (how should the software system fulfill the functional requirements). You will develop software requirement models and specifications that capture the customer/user's needs.

SFWE 505: Software Architecture & Design

In this course, you'll explore different architectural styles and patterns and learn to apply modern processes, methods, and tools in architecting, modeling, and designing software systems. They will also learn the importance of developing a sound software architecture as part of the overall software design.  

SFWE 506: Distributed Computing

In this course, you will explore the unique aspects and considerations required to develop a large-scale software product in a distributed computing environment. Distributed computing refers to a system where processing and data storage are distributed across multiple devices or systems rather than being handled by a single central device. In a distributed system, each device or system has its own processing capabilities and may also store and manage its own data. 

SFWE 507: Foundations of Software Engineering

Gain foundational skills and knowledge used by software engineers in diverse industries. The course introduces you to the different software development lifecycle (SDLC) phases used in developing, delivering, and maintaining software products for a wide variety of applications. Common software process models will be introduced, along with developing an understanding of the importance of defining software requirements, developing software architectures and designs, and the various forms of testing that go into delivering reliable and resilient software systems.

SFWE 509: Cloud Computing Principles and Practices

This introductory course on cloud computing delves into the fundamental technologies and ideas that make up contemporary cloud computing infrastructure. You'll get hands-on practice using cloud service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, FaaS), virtualization, data centers, cloud management, and essential Linux commands. The course also covers advanced topics such as cloud storage, containers, microservices, serverless computing, cloud security, emerging trends in cloud IoT, mobile clouds, edge computing, and big data processing.

SFWE 510: Cloud Native Software Engineering

This course introduces the design and implementation of decentralized systems with up-to-date software architecture and relevant development frameworks. Topics include inter-module communication, asynchronous processing, security, concurrency, parallelism, and an overview of contemporary enterprise technology and challenges. The course also dives into the development, infrastructure, best practices, and DevOps practices for monitoring and debugging such systems.

Earning your Doctor of Philosophy in Software Engineering (PhD) will build core skills, including:

• Software engineering
• Software Development Lifecycle
• Agile methodology
• Full stack development
• Continuous integration
• Continuous deployment
• Cloud & distributed computing
• Programming language proficiency
• Algorithm design & optimization
• Cybersecurity practices & standards
• Artificial Intelligence
• Machine learning algorithms & approaches

Graduates of the Software Engineering PhD program will be prepared to pursue careers in the following fields, among many others:

• Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning
• Aerospace & Defense
• Space Exploration
• Data Science & Analytics
• Medical Devices Technologies
• Financial Systems & Technologies
• Quantum Computing
• Automotive/Vehicle Networking/Autonomous Driving
• Cybersecurity Analysis
• Engineering
• Systems & Software Solutions Architecture
• Mobile Computing
• Computer Vision
• Cloud Computing/Networking

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SoftwareDegrees.org

PhD in Software Engineering Programs

On This Page:

Take your education to the highest peak with our PhD in software engineering guide! This real-world resource will help you understand how doctoral programs in software are structured & delivered. Learn about admissions, coursework, research, and dissertation requirements. Take a closer look at PhD program costs, online learning opportunities, and the career benefits of earning a doctorate in software engineering. And find answers to frequently asked questions from potential students.

Have you already decided on a doctorate? Skip ahead to our state-by-state listings of PhD in software engineering programs !

What is a Doctorate in Software Engineering?

A PhD in software engineering transforms great software engineers into field experts. PhD programs allow students to immerse themselves in advanced focus areas such as software organization and properties, notations and tools, and creation and management. In addition, doctoral students complete original and detailed research in order to become a go-to expert on their dissertation topic.

A doctorate in software engineering is a top-level educational qualification. Professionals who pursue this path usually plan to become university professors, high-flying researchers in major tech companies, and well-paid consultants. Before you commit to 4-5 years of hard work, it’s worth knowing where you’re headed.

Software Engineering PhD Programs: Your Degree Options

Phd in software engineering.

A PhD in software engineering has a two-fold purpose. It hones your ability to engineer efficient and practical software systems. But it also challenges you to consider the theories behind software development, study its applications, and develop new tools. In doing so, you’ll be prepared to:

• Lead research and development teams in advancing software architecture
• Teach software engineering (and pursue tenure) at the university level
• Assume executive positions responsible for top-level software-related decisions

PhD in Software Development

A PhD in software development prepares you to apply advanced problem-solving techniques to the field of software. You’ll design, develop, validate, and maintain large software applications and work with the latest technologies. Like PhD in software engineering candidates, most software development PhD graduates pursue university-level teaching jobs and research-focused industry positions (e.g. senior or principal software developer).

PhD in Computer Science with a Software Engineering Concentration

A PhD in computer science with a software engineering concentration will provide you with the research skills to advance software systems through computational theory, algorithmic research & development, and/or practical design innovations. PhD graduates play a lead role in advancing cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI). They also apply for software engineering & computer science faculty positions at colleges and universities.

PhD Program Overview: Curriculum, Admission Requirements & Costs

Structure & timeline.

Have a look at the curriculum links in our listings to get a sense of how a doctorate is structured. PhD programs in software engineering consist of core courses, electives, research, and a dissertation. They typically take four or five years to complete.

• Years 1-3: At most universities, doctoral students in software engineering complete core requirements and electives in the first two or three years of the program. During this time, you will also select a dissertation topic, develop a proposal, and defend your plan in a public setting. PhD students earn candidate status once the proposal is approved.
• Years 4-5: PhD programs become research-heavy in the final two years. You should expect to spend a couple of years conducting research and writing your dissertation. A faculty advisor will help guide you through the dissertation process, providing advice on topic selection, assistance with research, and prep for your dissertation defense. At the end of the program, you will publicly defend your findings in front of a faculty dissertation committee.

PhD in Software Engineering: Curriculum

Core coursework & electives.

Software engineering PhD programs contain core coursework and electives, with specific credit mandates. Each school will allow you to explore different topics, easing the process of creating an impactful and motivating dissertation proposal. Advisors will tailor your coursework to help you discover and focus on your specialization.

For example, a PhD in software engineering from the University of California Irvine has a 48-credit coursework requirement, consisting of:

• The software engineering core
• Five electives in software engineering topics
• Three courses of individual study and/or thesis supervision
• Additional coursework to fill in credits toward the 48-credit requirement
• Attending dozens of seminars

A PhD in software engineering from Carnegie Mellon features:

• One core research course in software engineering
• Four “star” and two elective courses, each selected by the student
• A practicum
• Two semesters as a teaching assistant serving as an assistant teacher

North Dakota State University’s software and security engineering PhD program contains:

• Six core courses
• One of two focus tracks in either software engineering or cybersecurity, each requiring three courses
• The doctoral dissertation

You’ll notice that some PhD in software engineering courses overlap with subjects that have been addressed in master’s programs. The difference is that doctoral courses are much more in-depth. Top-level coursework completed within PhD programs can include:

• Models of software systems
• Type systems for programming languages
• Cloud and security foundations
• Optimizing compilers for modern architectures
• Global e-business strategy
• Information security and privacy
• Human aspects of software development

Research & Dissertation Preparation

While you’re tackling courses, you’ll also be exploring possible research ideas for your dissertation. This phase of your PhD in software engineering can cover a large range of topics. You may wish to investigate advanced areas in software such as:

• Software architecture and design
• Security and privacy
• Analysis and quality assurance
• Developer tools
• Management and organization of software development

Faculty members will help you break down these general categories into an impactful & targeted research topic for your PhD dissertation. You must receive approval for your dissertation topic before you are allowed to complete the last few years of your doctorate.

Be prepared to hit the ground running. Research work will usually begin in the early stages of your doctoral program. The University of California Irvine and Carnegie Mellon specifically mention working on research projects at the onset of the PhD. Some schools even provide directed study opportunities. Directed study allows you to conduct research under the oversight of a faculty member in preparation for your dissertation.

Dissertation

Software engineering PhD students are required to conduct original research that will explore new territory and broaden the industry’s knowledge of the field. You’ll be expected to present your conclusions & findings in a written and publicly defended dissertation. Carnegie Mellon’s handbook offers a thorough account of the dissertation process, from the proposal to its ultimate defense.

Once you have decided on a dissertation topic, completed your research, and created your dissertation:

• A committee of several faculty members involved in your doctoral work will review your written work.
• You will then be required to defend your findings in an oral presentation. A dissertation defense takes approximately 45 minutes, followed by questions.
• The committee can decide to approve—either with or without corrections—or reject the dissertation.

Wondering what a dissertation in software engineering looks like? Examine the following completed dissertations by PhD candidates at UC Irvine and Auburn University:

• Reusable Method Summaries for Improving Performance of Dynamic Dependence Analysis by Vijay Krishna Palepu (PhD graduate from the University of California Irvine)
• Popularity-Aware Storage Systems for Big Data Applications by Ting Cao (PhD graduate from Auburn University)

PhD Admission Requirements

Admission requirements to software engineering PhD programs vary by school. However, you can expect to see most (if not all) of the following listed in university doctoral admissions guides:

• Master’s Degree in a Related Field: Common MS majors include software engineering, computer science, software development, etc. (Some schools will consider BS applicants).
• High GPA: Universities will usually ask for a minimum 3.0 GPA at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
• Competitive GRE Scores
• Personal Statement:  Universities will want to know about your interests, goals, and/or professional experience.
• Letters of Recommendation
• Proof of Proficiency in English: International students from non-English speaking countries may need to take a IELTS or TOEFL test.

Admission to PhD in software engineering programs is highly competitive, so be aware that schools will be considering other aspects of your background. For example, UC Irvine reviews design portfolios, GitHub profiles, and any relevant writing (e.g. scholarly papers).

Tuition Costs & Funding for Software Engineering PhD Programs

It’s important to note that most PhD programs in software engineering are fully funded. If you are considering a doctorate in a STEM field, be sure to ask if tuition is covered. For example:

• The University of Michigan-Dearborn’s PhD in Computer and Information Science (CIS): Software Engineering Concentration follows the university’s fully-funded PhD model.
• PhD candidates earn a tuition waiver and monthly stipend, plus health insurance, in exchange for their work as a graduate student instructor or research assistant (or both).

Similar arrangements exist for PhD candidates at UC Irvine and North Dakota State University.

If you are unable to find a fully funded PhD program, you may wish to look into filing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid ( FAFSA ) for graduate students, scholarship and fellowship options, and—as a last resort—private loans. Tuition for non-funded doctorates will vary from school to school, but you can expect to see tuition prices range from $15,000 to north of $50,000 per year.

Online PhD in Software Engineering Programs

Software development needs no lab work and few physical references, so some online PhD in software engineering programs do exist. However, virtual doctorates are still far less common than online BS in software engineering degrees and online MS in software engineering programs .

Examples of online doctoral programs in the field include the:

• Online PhD in Systems Engineering at Colorado State University
• Online PhD in Computer Science with software engineering coursework at the University of North Dakota

These are doctorates from regionally accredited institutions with solid brick & mortar reputations. You’ll be able to view on-campus lectures live or watch recordings afterwards. You can discuss your work in virtual meetings with your faculty advisors. And you can fit your dissertation research around other commitments. Be aware that online PhD programs aren’t usually funded—you may end up paying tuition costs of $800+ per credit.

PhD Career Benefits & Opportunities

What can you do with a phd in software engineering.

A PhD in software engineering makes you the world’s expert on your dissertation topic. You will be acknowledged as a specialist in software engineering & development wherever you go. While your expertise in the field awards you some flexibility in the roles you choose to pursue, there are a handful of opportunities that are tailor-made for software engineering PhD graduates.

University Faculty in Software Engineering : A PhD is the standard requirement for tenured faculty positions. Entering the world of academia will involve a number of responsibilities, including:

• Instructing undergraduate and graduate students on software engineering principles
• Developing new course materials to address advances in software engineering
• Writing grant proposals to fund research into new technologies
• Conducting research to expand the field of software engineering
• Writing white papers and presenting at conferences and seminars

Computer & Information Research Scientists : Computer and information research scientists design new computer architectures to improve network technology, increase computing speeds, and advance data security measures.

Principal Software Engineers : Principal software engineers function as a company’s technical and managerial focal point for software engineering projects. They ensure clients’ satisfaction with the end product and provide executive management updates on budgetary and resource constraints.

Executives or Start-up Founders : Executives and founders create and guide a company’s vision by applying in-depth knowledge of software systems and applications. If you find yourself interested in leading a start-up, then it’s likely you’ve created—or are involved with—a new software technology or product with industry potential.

Industry Experts & Consultants : Legislatures and agencies enforce various compliance requirements to ensure data security. Industry experts serve as consultants to develop and modify policies and regulations. You essentially monetize your knowledge by lending your expertise wherever it is needed.

Salaries for PhD in Software Engineering Graduates

General salaries.

Wondering if earning a PhD in software engineering will have a positive impact on your earning potential? Well, according to Glassdoor, the answer is a resounding “yes.” Software engineers with PhD degrees earn an average of $40,000 more than master’s degree earners. In 2023, PhD in software engineering earners averaged $164,835 per year ($130,041 base pay and $34,794 additional pay), compared to $121,158 per year ($101,096 base pay and $20,062 additional pay) for master’s in software engineering earners .

Big Tech Company Salaries

Large technology companies—like Google and Meta—seek out elite software engineers. These firms pay well to recruit the best candidates, so your chances of being hired increase significantly with a PhD.

Specific Job Salaries

Sources : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provided a computer and information research scientist’s salary (updated May 2021). Glassdoor provided all other salary estimates (updated February 2023). Additional pay refers to cash bonuses and profit sharing.

Is a PhD in Software Engineering Worth it?

You’ve reviewed what earning a PhD in software engineering entails, how long it will take, and what it might cost . You’ve considered admissions criteria , carefully reviewing your own background and your odds of gaining entry to a reputable program. Now for the most important question: Is a PhD in software engineering really worth it?

This is a difficult question to answer, as the decision ultimately depends on your professional goals, existing responsibilities, and your budget. To help you decide, we’ve made the case for both sides.

Pros of a PhD in Software Engineering

Earning a PhD in software engineering is worth it if you want to pursue advanced career opportunities that are unavailable to those with an undergraduate or master’s degree. For example, you may wish to:

• Apply for a top Research & Development (R&D) position within global tech companies (e.g. Microsoft or Google)
• Support start-ups who rely on skilled researchers and innovators as they develop new technologies
• Join the academic world in order to lead groundbreaking research while educating future software engineers

If any of the above sound like you, then a PhD in software engineering is worth it.

Cons of a PhD in Software Engineering

Earning a PhD in software engineering is not worth it if you’re not prepared for the obstacles and intense commitment required to complete a doctorate. For example, you may:

• Have existing responsibilities (family, career, etc.) that make dedicating four to five years to a doctoral program an impossibility
• Are unable to secure admission to a fully-funded program and are overwhelmed with the idea of taking on enormous debt in exchange for an advanced degree
• Either have not considered your career goals or are unsure about your interest in the opportunities available to PhD holders

If the above points ring true for you, then a PhD in Software Engineering is not worth it.

PhD in Software Engineering: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you pursue a doctorate in software engineering without earning a master’s degree first.

Yes. Several schools allow bachelor’s degree graduates to apply without first completing a master’s degree. For example:

• University of Texas at Dallas requires a Bachelor of Science in a related field, 3.5 GPA, and strong GRE scores.
• North Dakota State University requires a Bachelor of Science degree, at least three years of full-time professional software engineering experience, and one programming language (C++, C#, or Java preferred).
• Auburn University requires a relevant bachelor’s degree, with computer science, software engineering, and cybersecurity engineering being preferred.

How Long Are Software Engineering PhD programs?

Most doctoral programs require a full-time commitment of four to five years. PhD programs in software engineering are split into two major phases: coursework and the dissertation. PhD coursework requires two to three years of full-time effort. The dissertation typically takes an additional two to three years of research, writing, and defense.

How Are Master’s Degree and PhD in Software Engineering Programs Different?

Master’s degrees and PhD programs are advanced educational qualifications in software engineering, but there are some important differences between them:

• Program Length : A software engineering master’s degree usually takes two years of full-time study; a PhD program requires a full-time commitment of four to five years.
• Coursework : Master’s programs typically require 30 course credits, culminating with a thesis or final project. PhD programs are four to five years long and involve core coursework, electives, and the completion of a PhD dissertation.
• Master’s Thesis vs. PhD Dissertation : A master’s thesis involves analyzing and commenting on existing research in the world of software engineering. A PhD dissertation requires unique research and the development of an original concept. PhD students ultimately contribute new knowledge to the field of software engineering.
• Career Opportunities : A master’s degree in software engineering will provide you with advanced skills required to thrive within software development companies. You’ll be able to apply your in-depth knowledge to create & manage complex software applications through the entire development cycle. A software engineering PhD prepares you to conduct research and educate students within academia or pursue professional R&D positions.

All PhD in Software Engineering Programs

8 Schools Found

Auburn University

Samuel Ginn College of Engineering

Auburn University, Alabama

PhD in Computer Science and Software Engineering

Naval postgraduate school.

Department of Computer Science

Monterey, California

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Software Engineering

Offered Online

University of California-Irvine

Department of Informatics

Irvine, California

PhD Software Engineering

North dakota, north dakota state university-main campus.

College of Engineering

Fargo, North Dakota

PhD in Software and Security Engineering

Pennsylvania, carnegie mellon university.

Institute for Software Research

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Southern Methodist University

Lyle School of Engineering

Dallas, Texas

Doctor of Engineering in Software Engineering

The university of texas at arlington.

Arlington, Texas

Doctorate in Computer Science - Software Engineering Track

The university of texas at dallas.

Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science

Richardson, Texas

• Chancellor’s Message

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2023-24 edition, software engineering, ph.d..

A new code search engine. New insights into how trust emerges (or doesn’t) in distributed software development organizations. New visualizations to aid developers in debugging code. New lessons about the quality of open-source components. A new Internet infrastructure that enables secure computational exchange.

These are just some examples of the wide variety of projects being worked on by current Ph.D. students in the software engineering Ph.D. program at UC Irvine.

As software continues to transform society in dramatic and powerful ways, we must improve our ability to reliably develop high-quality systems. From early incarnations as just an idea or set of requirements to when software is actually built, deployed and customized in the field, many challenges exist across the lifecycle that make creating software still a non-trivial endeavor today.

The software engineering Ph.D. program offers students the opportunity to tackle these challenges, whether it is through designing new tools, performing studies of developers and teams at work, creating new infrastructures or developing new theories about software and how it is developed. No fewer than six faculty members bring a broad range of expertise and perspectives to the program, guaranteeing a diverse yet deep education in the topic.

A strong core of classes introduces students to classic material and recent innovations. At the same time, we focus on research from the beginning. New students are required to identify and experiment with one or more research topics early, so that they can become familiar with the nature of research, write papers, attend conferences and begin to become part of the broader software engineering community. This focus on research naturally continues throughout the program, with an emphasis on publishing novel results in the appropriate venues.

For additional information about this degree program, please see: https://www.informatics.uci.edu/grad/phd-software-engineering/

Program of Study

Pre-candidacy course requirements.

Students must complete a software engineering core course, five elective courses, and at least three quarters of individual study and/or thesis supervision courses. Students must take additional courses of their own choosing or additional individual studies, in order to fulfill 48 units before advancement to candidacy. The selection of courses should form a coherent educational plan to be approved by the student's faculty advisor.

Qualifying Examinations

Research Assessment

Students must find a faculty advisor and successfully complete a research project with that faculty member. The research project should be done over at least two quarters of independent study with that faculty member. The goal of this research assessment is to introduce the student to the practice of scientific publication.

Based on the project, the student must produce a research paper of publishable quality. This research paper must be reviewed by three faculty members in a peer-review process, revised by the student, and approved by the three faculty members.

The research assessment is graded Ph.D. PASS, M.S. PASS, or FAIL. In case of M.S. PASS or FAIL, the student can re-submit the paper at most one more time within the maximum period of six months. A second M.S. PASS or FAIL results in disqualification from the doctoral program.

Advancement to Candidacy Examination

Each Ph.D. student must pass the oral advancement to candidacy exam, which assesses the student’s ability to conduct, present, and orally defend research work at the doctoral level. The research project and paper are the basis for the student’s oral advancement to candidacy exam. The oral candidacy exam consists of the research presentation by the student, followed by questions from the candidacy committee.

The student must complete the course requirements, and pass the research assessment prior to advancing to candidacy. The candidacy committee will consist of five faculty members, the majority of whom must be members of the student’s program, and is conducted in accordance with UCI Senate regulations.

Dissertation Topic Defense

The student must present a carefully articulated document representing the student’s dissertation plan. This document must include the proposed dissertation abstract, a discussion of the approach, a comprehensive survey of related work, and a plan for completing the work. The dissertation plan is presented by the student to the dissertation committee, who must unanimously approve the student’s proposal. The dissertation defense committee is formed in accordance to UCI Senate regulations.

Doctoral Dissertation and Final Examination

Students are required to complete a doctoral dissertation in accordance with Academic Senate regulations. In addition, they must pass an oral thesis defense which consists of a public presentation of the student’s research followed by an oral examination by the student’s doctoral committee. The committee must approve the thesis unanimously.

The normative time for advancement to candidacy is three years. The normative time for completion of the Ph.D. is six years, and the maximum time permitted is seven years.

Requirements Beyond Graduate Division Minimum Requirements

All Ph.D. students are expected to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5 throughout the program. Failure to maintain this minimum will result in a recommendation that the student be disqualified. In addition, no grade lower than a B is counted toward satisfying any course requirements.

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Ph.D. - Computer Science and Software Engineering

Why this degree.

The Doctor of Philosophy program in Computer Science and Software Engineering offers a unique opportunity for doctoral students to develop research and development skills in cutting-edge computer science and software engineering disciplines. We cater to doctoral students with an outstanding aptitude and strong research skills in computer science and software engineering. A dissertation embodying the results of this research represents the major portion of the requirements for this degree. Four calendar years beyond the bachelor’s degree or three past the master’s degree are usually needed to complete the Ph.D. program.

You are eligible to apply if...

• You hold a Bachelor's degree or a master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity Engineering or equivalent from an institution of recognized standing
• Your GPA is 3.0 or above
• Your GRE general exam combined score is at least 300, with a verbal score of at least 150, a quantitative score of at least 150; and a written score of at least 3.
• If you are an international student, your TOEFL iBT score should be at least 79, with a minimum of 16 on each of four component parts (reading, listening, speaking, and writing) or, IELTS score of at least 6.5.

To complete the program you must...

• Take a minimum of 66 credit hours of graduate work past the bachelor’s degree.
• All the courses except COMP8990 must be graded courses, among which three (i.e., COMP7270, COMP7300, and COMP7500) are required core graduate courses for a total of nine (9) credit hours.
• (i) formal COMP courses (minimum 21 credit hours) and/or
• (ii) other elective courses (up to 9 credit hours) at 6000 level or higher is required.
• May take up to six (6) credit hours of directed study (i.e., COMP7930/8930).
• Take at least one additional COMP course at 7000 level or higher (excluding COMP7930/8930).
• Take at least 18 credit hours of COMP 8990 Research and Dissertation.
• (i) the “PhD Qualifying Examination” and
• (ii) the “PhD General Oral Examination”. The PhD Qualifying Examination will be successfully fulfilled by passing the three qualifying exams (i.e., computer organization/architecture, operating systems, and algorithms) or earning a B or higher in required remedy courses.
• Prepare an acceptable dissertation reflecting high achievement in scholarship and independent investigation.
• Pass a Final Oral Examination defending the dissertation.

Doctoral students must meet the following repeating-courses requirements:

• Students who have taken a 5000-level course at Auburn University may not take the 6000-level equivalent for credit.
• Doctoral students may not take more than six hours of Directed Study (i.e., COMP7930/8930).
• Special Topics (i.e., COMP7970/8970) may be repeated provided each entails a change in topic.
• Dissertation and Research, COMP8990, may be repeated, but only a maximum of 18 hours count toward the Ph.D degree.

What can you expect?

• Xiao Qin, graduate program officer — [email protected]
• Clint Lovelace, manager of academic programs — [email protected]
• Faculty Information: http://www.eng.auburn.edu/comp/faculty
• https://www.slideshare.net/xqin74/auburn-csse-graduate-student-orientation

Applying for the Ph.D. - Computer Science and Software Engineering

• Fill out the online graduate application at https://graduate.auburn.edu/prospective-students/application-instructions/ (you will be required to create an account)
• Upload your GRE scores, official transcripts, statement of purpose, resume, and three recommendation letters
• Upload your TOEFL or IELTS scores (For International Students)
• For more information, visit http://www.eng.auburn.edu/comp/academics/graduate

Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science

Graduate program in software engineering.

The Graduate Program in Computer Science provides intensive preparation in the design, programming, theory, and applications of computers. The Department of Computer Science offers courses of study leading to the MS in Computer Science , the MS in Software Engineering , the PhD degree in Computer Science , and the PhD degree in Software Engineering . Training is provided for both academically oriented students and students with professional goals in the many business, industrial, or governmental occupations requiring advanced knowledge of computer theory and technology. Courses and research are offered in a variety of subfields of computer science, including operating systems, computer architecture, computer graphics, pattern recognition, automata theory, combinatorics, artificial intelligence, data and network security, natural language processing, database design, computer networks, programming languages, software systems, analysis of algorithms, computational complexity, software engineering, software testing, software reliability, scheduling, visualization, fault-tolerant computing, parallel processing, telecommunications networks, telecommunications software, performance of systems, VLSI, computational geometry, and design automation.

A comprehensive program of evening courses is offered which enables part-time students to earn the master's degree or to select individual courses of interest.

The Department of Computer Science systems are comprised of a private virtualization cloud, several individual computer servers, computer workstations, and desktop computers. Research laboratories are available for parallel processing, distributed systems, software engineering, high-performance computing, graphics, programming languages and systems, telecommunications, CAD and graph visualization, image understanding and processing, artificial intelligence, big data, natural language processing, speech processing, and web technologies. The Department of Computer Science network connects through Internet 2 with other research universities, gigabit ethernet intranet, and pervasive wireless connectivity.

Master of Science in Software Engineering

33 semester credit hours minimum

NOTE> Please be advised, the faculty section below feeds in from a separate database. Please contact Rosa Thompson - [email protected] - in the Provost's Technology Group to request any changes.

Program Faculty

FACG> ecs-software-engineering-ms

Professors: Farokh B. Bastani @bastani , Ovidiu Daescu @daescu , Gopal Gupta @gupta , Kevin Hamlen @kxh060100 , Dung T. Huynh @huynh , Andrian Marcus @axm141731 , Yu-Chung (Vincent) Ng @ycn041000 , Simeon C. Ntafos @ntafos , Balaji Raghavachari @rbk , Kamil Sarac @kxs028100 , Bhavani Thuraisingham @bxt043000 , W. Eric Wong @wew021000 , Weili Wu @wxw020100 , I-Ling Yen @ilyen , Kang Zhang @kzhang , Si Qing Zheng @sizheng

Associate Professors: Alvaro Cárdenas @axc127431 , Lawrence Chung @chung , Ryan McMahan @rpm120130 , Tien Nguyen @tnn160630 , Rym Zalila-Wenkstern @rmili

Assistant Professors: Shuang Hao @sxh178730 , Cong Liu @cxl137330 , Benjamin Raichel @bar150630 , Shiyi Wei @sxw174630 , Lingming Zhang @lxz144130

Senior Lecturers: Sridhar Alagar @sxa173731 , Gordon Arnold @gxa120930 , Eric Becker @ewb160130 , Jonathan Brandenburg @jcb011200 , Ebru Cankaya @exc067000 , Anjum Chida @axc157030 , Michael Christiansen @mgc013000 , John Cole @jxc064000 , Chris I. Davis @cid021000 , Karen Doore @kld054000 , Timothy (Tim) Farage @tfarage , Ranran Feng @rxf090020 , Richard Goodrum @rag150330 , Neeraj Gupta @nkg140130 , Shyam Karrah @skarrah , Kamran Khan @kkhan , Pushpa Kumar @pkumar , Khiem Le @kvl140030 , Karen Mazidi @kjm160430 , Richard K. Min @rkm010300 , Linda Morales @lxm014000 , Anarag Nagar @axn112530 , Nhut Nguyen @nhutnn , Mehra Nouroz Borazjany @mxn143230 , Greg Ozbirn @ozbirn , Mark Paulk @mcp130030 , Stephen Perkins @sxp127930 , Miguel Razo-Razo @mrazora , William (Bill) Semper @wjs130130 , Charles Shields Jr. @cshields , Jason W. Smith @jws130830 , Janell Straach @jxs017800 , Laurie Thompson @lthomp , Jeyakesavan (Jey) Veerasamy @veerasam , Don G. Vogel @dgv130030 , James Willson @jkw053000 , Nurcan Yuruk @nxy140530

NOTE> Please be advised, the admissions section below feeds in from a separate page. Any changes made to the admissions section below will not be retained. Please contact [email protected] with any questions.

Admission Requirements

The University's general admission requirements are discussed on the Graduate Admission page .

The student entering the Computer Science MS program should have an undergraduate preparation equivalent to a baccalaureate in a quantitative science, including calculus and linear algebra. However, special arrangements (requiring more than the minimal number of semester credit hours) can be made for students with good undergraduate preparation in other fields. Minimum requirements are:

• Bachelor's degree which includes 2 semesters of calculus and 1 semester of linear algebra.
• Strong foundation in programming.
• A GPA (grade point average) of at least 3.0 (last 60 semester credit hours). GPA in quantitative courses of at least 3.3.
• GRE revised scores of 308, 153, 155, and 4 for the combined, verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing components, respectively, are advisable based on our experience with student success in the program.

Applicants are admitted on a competitive basis.

Core Requirements

Course Requirements

Track Required Courses

SE 6329 Object-Oriented Software Engineering

SE 6361 ( CS 6361 ) Advanced Requirements Engineering

SE 6362 Advanced Software Architecture and Design

SE 6367 ( CS 6367 ) Software Testing, Validation and Verification

SE 6387 Advanced Software Engineering Project

Credit will be given for only one of the following courses if students take them together to satisfy Computer Science and Software Engineering degree plan requirements:

SE 6329 Object-Oriented Software Engineering, and

CS 6359 Object-Oriented Analysis and Design

Students must satisfy the core requirements by either earning a 3.19 minimum grade point average OR by earning a 3.0 minimum grade point average in the five core courses and taking an extra approved elective (beyond the minimum degree requirements of 33 semester credit hours) and maintain the required GPA.

Electives (minimum of 18 semester credit hours)

Five (15 semester credit hours) 6000/7000 level elective CS courses, or six semester credit hours of thesis or project courses plus three elective courses (6 + 9 = 15 semester credit hours), with approval of a graduate advisor; a minimum grade point average of 3.0 is required. Courses that are prerequisites to the student's core requirements are especially recommended. Approved electives must be taken to make a minimum of 33 semester credit hours.

While the Department of Computer Science offers both the Master of Science in Computer Science and the Master of Science in Software Engineering degrees, students are not permitted to pursue both degrees.

NOTE: Students changing program from MS_CS/PhD_CS to MS_SE/PhD_SE or MS_SE/PhD_SE to MS_CS/PhD_CS must submit a new online graduate application. The admissions committee in the department will review the application and make a decision.

Executive Masters of Science in Software Engineering

The Executive Masters in Software Engineering (EMSE) at the University of Texas at Dallas is the premier program for software professionals in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex and nearby areas. It is designed to help transform the careers and effectiveness of full time software employees. The program has a convenient schedule with classes that meet only one Friday and two Saturdays each month allowing a professional to manage work responsibilities and get a Master's Degree in 20 months.

Eligibility Requirements

• Three years or more of full-time employment as software professional.
• An acceptable four year BS degree and a sound knowledge of C++ or Java programming and Data Structures & Algorithm Analysis.
• A complete application including a resume and a written Personal Statement.
• Three letters of recommendation.

The EMSE program course work cannot be transferred to regular MSCS/SE program and vice versa.

Degree Requirements

The degree plan requires completion of 33 semester credit hours of coursework. This includes program selected 15 semester credit hours of 6000 level core and 12 semester credit hours of 6000 level electives. The remaining 6 semester credit hours of 6000 level electives are cohort selected.

SE 6361 Advanced Requirements Engineering

SE 6367 Software Testing, Validation and Verification

CS 6360 Database Design

SE 6356 Software Maintenance, Evolution, and Re-Engineering

SE 6388 Software Project Planning and Management

CS 6396 Real-Time Systems

Doctor of Philosophy in Software Engineering

75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree

FACG> ecs-software-engineering-phd

The Department of Computer Science offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Software Engineering.

The doctoral program is tailored to the student. The student must arrange a course program with the guidance and approval of a faculty member chosen as his/her graduate advisor. Adjustments can be made as the student's interests develop and a specific dissertation topic is chosen.

The University's general admission requirements are discussed on the Graduate Admission page.

A student may be admitted under one of two possible options:

Admission Option One

• A master's degree in computer science or its equivalent, and
• A GPA (grade point average) of at least 3.5 and
• GRE revised scores of at least 308, 153, 155, and 4 for the combined, verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing components, respectively, are advisable based on our experience with student success in the program.

Admission Option Two

• A BS in related area that includes two semesters of calculus and linear algebra with,
• GPA of at least 3.5 in the last 60 semester credit hours, and
• GRE revised scores of at least 315, 156, 159, and 4 for the combined, verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing components, respectively, are advisable based on our experience with student success in the program.

The University's general degree requirements are discussed on the Graduate Policies and Procedures page.

Core requirements:

The core requirements for the PhD degree in Software Engineering are the same as those listed on the Master of Science in Software Engineering page.

Also required are:

• Pass a qualifying examination.
• CS 6382 Theory of Computation with a grade of B or better
• Two CS or SE 7000 and above level courses
• Sufficient CS electives for a total of at least 75 semester credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree. At least 9 semester credit hours of organized advanced Computer Science electives must be taken at UT Dallas. The student is encouraged to consult with an advisor in choosing electives.

Dissertation

A dissertation is required and must be approved by the graduate program. A student must arrange for a dissertation advisor willing to guide this dissertation. The student must have a dissertation supervising committee that consists of no less than four members of whom at least three must be from the Computer Science faculty. Students must enroll in a minimum 3 dissertation semester credit hours in the degree plan. The dissertation may be in computer science exclusively or it may involve considerable work in an area of application.

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Best Doctorates in Software Engineering: Top PhD Programs, Career Paths, and Salaries

The best PhDs in software engineering are a great tool for graduate students who want to earn advanced degrees, elevate their engineering skills, and access high-paying professions. With a software engineering PhD, you’ll be able to work in leadership positions in government, engineering, and education.

If you want to pursue doctoral studies and are looking for software engineering programs, look no further. In this article, we discuss the best software engineering jobs, listing PhD in software engineering salary ranges and prospective job growth projections in the software engineering field.

Find your bootcamp match

What is a phd in software engineering.

A PhD in software engineering is an advanced study graduate degree in software engineering. It focuses on researching and implementing computer systems. Students are required to learn how to analyze the needs of their clients to design and deploy new software.

How to Get Into a Software Engineering PhD Program: Admission Requirements

To get into a software engineering PhD program, you need to complete an online application, pay the application fee, send your official transcripts, and provide GRE test scores. Other admission requirements may include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a current resume. The requirements will vary by institution.

PhD in Software Engineering Admission Requirements

• Online application and application fee
• Transcripts from each higher education institution attended
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Current resume

Software Engineering PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Software Engineering?

It is hard to get into a PhD program in software engineering because these programs are highly competitive. PhD programs require a high academic standing, extensive experience and educational background, and strong references. To accommodate the great amount of one-on-one time students need with professors, PhD class sizes are very small and have low acceptance rates.

How to Get Into the Best Universities

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Best PhDs in Software Engineering: In Brief

Best universities for software engineering phds: where to get a phd in software engineering.

The best universities for software engineering provide high-quality education and prepare you to succeed in your future career.  If you’re wondering where to get a PhD in software engineering, check our list of the 10 best programs, below.

Auburn University (AU) was founded in 1856. It is a public land-grant research university, the second largest in the state of Alabama. AU offers a wide range of PhD programs in education, history, nutrition, and chemical engineering. 

PhD in Computer Science and Software Engineering

This 66-credit PhD program in computer science and software engineering guides PhD students as they develop research and build skills in cutting-edge disciplines. Throughout the program, they learn about advanced topics in algorithms, computer architecture, and operating systems. 

PhD in Computer Science and Software Engineering Overview

• Program Length: 4 years
• Acceptance Rate: Not stated
• Tuition and Fees: $560/credit (in state); $1,680/credit (out of statet)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships, Merriwether Fellowships, Presidential Graduate Research Fellowships, National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships

PhD in Computer Science and Software Engineering Admission Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Cyber Security Engineering, or equivalent
• 3.0 GPA or above
• GRE score of at least 300, with a verbal score of at least 150, a quantitative score of at least 150, and a written score of at least 3
• TOEFL scores (for international students)

Carnegie Mellon University was founded in 1900. It is a private research university with over 6,000 graduate students enrolled across its seven colleges and independent schools. It offers programs in computer science, business, and electronics engineering. It boasts curious and passionate students who go on to build cutting-edge start-ups and innovative technology. 

PhD in Software Engineering

This degree in software engineering teaches students about computational methods, current policies, and societal and organizational needs. It aims to produce the next generation of software engineering professionals, educational leaders, and problem-solvers in the field.

PhD in Software Engineering Overview

• Program Length: 4-5 years
• Acceptance rate: Not stated
• Tuition: $23,200/semester 
• PhD Funding Opportunities: All applicants admitted to the doctoral program receive full financial support, but there are also many fellowship programs available, such as the Microsoft Research PhD Fellowship, the Siebel Scholars Program, and the Facebook Fellowship
• Online application
• Three letters of recommendation
• Unofficial transcript of all collegiate work completed post-high school

Clemson University is a public land-grant research university. It was founded in 1889 and currently consists of seven different colleges. More than 5,500 graduate students are enrolled across its graduate programs.

PhD in Computer Engineering

This PhD in computer engineering teaches students about computer hardware and architecture, programming systems, software engineering, and signals. Students are required to complete a total of 42 credits to complete this program. Students in the program have the opportunity to work at the SCE&G Energy Innovation Center, an advanced energy systems testing facility. 

PhD in Computer Engineering Overview

• Program Length: 2 years 
• Tuition: $5,056/semester (in-state)/ $10,644/semester (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships, Microsoft Research PhD Fellowship, NVIDIA Fellowship, Google PhD Fellowship

PhD in Computer Engineering Admission Requirements

• Online application and $80 application fee
• Unofficial transcripts from each institution attended

Cornell University is a private Ivy League land-grant research university. It was founded in 1865 with the intention to offer high-quality education and contribute in all fields of knowledge. It currently has over 8,800 graduate students enrolled.

PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Cornell’s PhD program in electrical and computer engineering prepares students for a successful career in research, teaching, and development across all industries. Graduate students are required to engage in cutting-edge coursework and conduct studies in the field.

PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering Overview

• Program Length: Not stated
• Tuition: $29,500/year
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships (research and teaching) and fellowships

PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering Admission Requirements

• GPA of 3.5 or above
• Academic statement of purpose
• Personal statement
• Unofficial transcript from each university attended
• Resume 

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) was established in 1861. It is a private land-grant research university with over 6,800 enrolled graduate students. It offers PhD programs in the humanities, social sciences, and STEM fields.

PhD in Computational Science and Engineering

This PhD program requires students to specialize in a computation-related field of their choice. Courses are taught across different departments, including mathematics, mechanical engineering, and materials science and engineering. Graduate students in this program are required to complete 60 credits of coursework and thesis preparation. 

PhD in Computational Science and Engineering Overview

• Tuition: $28,795/semester
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships

PhD in Computational Science and Engineering Admission Requirements

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent
• Transcripts from all institutions attended
• Statement of objectives

Purdue University is a public research university. It was founded in 1869 and is now the flagship campus of the Purdue University system. It offers over 70 master's and doctorate programs and has more than 10,000 graduate students enrolled.

This PhD in Computer Engineering prepares graduate students to take on real-world problems in big data, cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), and machine learning. This program’s graduates work in industrial research, development, and academia. During their studies, PhD students have access to well-funded research assistantships. 

• Program Length: 4-5 years (6-year limit)
• Tuition: $4,859/semester (in state); $9,401/semester (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships, fellowships
• Master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.25
• Transcript from every institution of higher education attended
• Statement of Purpose
• GRE scores (optional)

University of California, Irvine , is a public research university. It was established in the 1960s and is one of the 10 campuses of the University of California System. It has 14 schools, several interdisciplinary programs, and over 6,600 graduate students.

The 48-credit degree program in software engineering teaches students how to design new tools, engage in relevant research in the software industry, create infrastructures, and develop theories about software and its utility.

• Program Length: 6 years
• Tuition: $3,814.00/semester
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching assistantships, reader fellowships, Steckler Family Endowed Fellowship, Google PhD Fellowship 
• Bachelor’s degree with a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0
• English proficiency tests (all applicants)
• Transcripts for all institutions attended since high school

University of Miami (UM) was founded in 1925. It is a private research university with 12 colleges and schools. UM offers 67 doctoral degree programs and has over 6,400 graduate students. 

Graduate students in this PhD program learn about programming languages and algorithms, computer networks, architecture, and digital systems. They must complete 30 credits, pass their qualifying examination, and defend their dissertation to complete the program.

• Tuition: $19,530/semester
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Internal and external fellowships, scholarships
• Transcripts from each post-secondary institution attended
• Official GRE scores with a minimum score of 310

University of Michigan is a public research university that consists of 19 colleges. It was founded in 1817, offers 100 doctoral programs, and has over 16,000 graduate students enrolled. The school offers over 3,000 courses and is ranked third among the leading public universities in the US. 

PhD in Computer Science and Engineering

This PhD program teaches advanced topics in computer science and engineering. The degree supports students in conducting research and writing publishable papers. This program is intended for those who wish to pursue a career in academics, and PhD students are expected to contribute to the field of computer science and engineering through their research. 

PhD in Computer Science and Engineering Overview

• Program Length: 4- 5 years
• Tuition (and Fees): $1,730/credit (resident); $3,132/credit (non-resident)

PhD in Computer Science and Engineering Admission Requirements

• Research interest
• Faculty interest
• Official transcripts from each bachelor’s, master’s, professional, and doctoral degree earned

University of Utah was established in 1850. It is a public research university, and the flagship institution of the Utah System of Higher Education. It offers several programs in biology, computer science, and political science. Its 8,000 graduate students can choose from over 200 degree programs and access $641,000,000 in research funding.

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This PhD program in computer engineering prepares students for a successful career in the software engineering industry, academia, and government. It teaches advanced topics in computer engineering, such as digital communication and advanced embedded software. Students will conduct research, pass qualifying examinations, and defend a dissertation. 

• Program Length: 3 years
• Tuition and Fees: $1,271.79/credit (in state); $4,517.11/credit (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching assistantships, ASEE SMART Fellowships, National Science Foundation (NSF) – Graduate Resources, Microsoft Research PhD Fellowship Program
• Master of science degree 
• Personal Statement

Can You Get a PhD in Software Engineering Online?

Yes, you can get a PhD in Software Engineering. However, there are very few software engineering PhD programs available online, as most degree programs at this level require hands-on involvement. It would be easier to find PhD programs in computer science, which will cover aspects of engineering. If you want to earn your PhD in Software Engineering, you’ll more than likely need to be willing to attend an in-person program.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Software Engineering?

It takes four to five years to get a PhD in software engineering. This is the average duration for most PhD programs. Throughout the program, you will complete coursework, sit for qualification exams, and write and defend your final doctoral dissertation.

The first year usually covers core courses. The second and third years are for advanced courses related to the specialization. During the fourth and fifth years, students research and defend their PhD dissertations.

Is a PhD in Software Engineering Hard?

Yes, a PhD in Software Engineering is hard. PhD programs are hard to complete because they’re meant to develop future experts, are highly specialized, and require a lot of independent work. Over the course of five years, students are expected to learn advanced topics in their field, develop cutting-edge, relevant research, write and publish papers, and write final dissertations that dissect original research.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Software Engineering?

On average, it costs $19,314 a year to get a PhD in software engineering, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This value may vary. University prestige, public or private university status, and student resident status are some aspects that affect tuition.

How to Pay for a PhD in Software Engineering: PhD Funding Options

PhD funding options that students can use to pay for a PhD in Software Engineering include research and teaching assistantships, internal and external fellowships, and scholarships. Many universities have internal funding for PhD students, which you can access through the institution’s financial office.

Best Online Master’s Degrees

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What Is the Difference Between a Software Engineering Master’s Degree and PhD?

The main difference between a software engineering master’s degree and a PhD is that master’s degrees are focused on preparing students for the job market, while a PhD program is more research-based.

Software engineering PhDs prepare students for advanced careers in research and academia. Master’s degrees are a lower qualification but are often more job-focused. Other differences between these types of graduate programs include career options and the time it takes to complete.

Master’s vs PhD in Software Engineering Job Outlook

The job outlook for master’s and PhD graduates in software engineering are similar since both qualifications make you eligible for similar positions. Even though their salaries are different, both professionals are looking at the same job outlook.

Postsecondary teaching employment, a common professional for PhD-holders, is expected to grow by 12 percent in the next decade.  Meanwhile, employment in web development, a position better fitted for a Master’s Degree in Software Engineering, is expected to grow by 13 percent over the next decade, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Difference in Salary for Software Engineering Master’s vs PhD

While master’s and doctorate students share many of the same job positions, their salaries vary slightly. When applying for the same position, a PhD graduate can bargain for a higher salary with their advanced knowledge and skills. However on average, according to PayScale, a software engineer with a master’s degree earns, on average, $111,000 per year, while a software engineer with a PhD in the field earns $103,000 , annually.

Related Software Engineering Degrees

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Why You Should Get a PhD in Software Engineering

You should get a PhD in software engineering because the demand for software engineers is high, meaning the salaries are high as well. You can complete a PhD program with full funding, and the program will elevate your career, improve your communication skills, and hone career-specific skills. It also qualifies you for senior positions and to teach at the university level.

Reasons for Getting a PhD in Software Engineering

• Higher salaries. Professionals with a software engineering PhD generally earn more than those who have bachelor’s or master’s degrees.
• Funding opportunities. Most students pursuing a PhD in software engineering are eligible for research and teaching assistantships, internal and external fellowships, and scholarships that cover their full tuition.
• Improve communication skills. Software engineering PhD students are required to research and write papers. They are then required to dissect their findings in conferences and seminars, which builds communication skills.
• Hone career-specific skills. Throughout a software engineering PhD program, students work on their programming, software development, software testing and debugging problem-solving, teamwork, and other career-specific skills.

Getting a PhD in Software Engineering: Software Engineering PhD Coursework

Besides research and writing a dissertation, getting a PhD in software engineering requires completing courses in software engineering research, symbolic mathematical modeling and analysis, and human-focused empirical research. Software engineering PhD coursework also includes topics like design and engineering of software systems and the applications of software in society, business, and policy.

Software Engineering Research

A software in engineering research course is designed to prepare students to develop relevant research skills. It introduces field research strategies, discusses developments that led to current inquiries, and allows students to critique and evaluate research papers.

Symbolic Mathematical Modeling and Analysis

In this course, students engage in research methods that include discrete models, proofs, and software-relevant mathematical topics. The most common areas of study in this course are machine learning, programming language semantics, and formal logic.

Human-focused Empirical Research

This course focuses on behavioral science research methods. It touches on human-based topics relevant to software engineering and includes the study of interviews, case studies, surveys, human subjects experiments, and mining software repositories.

Design and Engineering of Software Systems

The design and engineering of software systems course requires a significant engagement with software design, consideration of software artifacts, and exposure to tradeoffs at the core of software engineering.

Software in Society, Business, and Policy

This course covers ways in which software interacts with problems in society, businesses, and public policy. It focuses on topics like the social web, information security and privacy, privacy engineering, and the foundations of privacy.

Best Master’s Degrees

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How to Get a PhD in Software Engineering: Doctoral Program Requirements

To get a PhD in software engineering, you need to meet your school’s program requirements. These include completing the required coursework, passing the qualifying and candidacy exams, creating a program of study, and defending a final dissertation.

A PhD in software engineering requires the completion of a few core courses in the first year of the program. Once you are done with these courses, you’ll need to be evaluated to continue the program.

At the end of the first year of the software engineering PhD program, students have to pass a qualifying exam. This examination evaluates students on their knowledge in core subjects that they studied throughout the year.

In the second year of study, students enroll in more specialized courses. With the help of an advisor, students create a program of study for the rest of the program, including finding a permanent advisor to guide them through their dissertation.

Once you’re done with the advanced courses, the faculty will have to assess your knowledge in the different areas of your specialization. Students also have to present a preliminary sample of what their dissertation will be. After passing this exam, students are considered PhD candidates.

At the end of the software engineering PhD program, students must present and defend their final dissertation in an oral presentation. Once they pass their presentation, they must deliver a copy of their final work.

Potential Careers With a Software Engineering Degree

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PhD in Software Engineering Salary and Job Outlook

Getting a PhD in software engineering will give you access to jobs that pay well above the national average and grant you career stability. Career prospects are positive since employment in the field is projected to grow over the next decade.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Software Engineering?

With a PhD in software engineering, you can get a job as a computer and information systems manager, a computer and information research scientist, or a senior software developer. You might also become a database administrator, database architect, or computer science postsecondary teacher. With a PhD, you can access senior roles in the industry.

Best Jobs with a PhD in Software Engineering

• Computer and Information Systems Manager
• Computer and Information Research Scientist
• Software Developer
• Database Administrator and Architect
• Computer Science Postsecondary Teacher

What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Software Engineering?

The average salary for a PhD in software engineering is $103,000 per year, on average, according to PayScale. This salary average varies with the career path you choose, the industry you’re working in, and the state you’re based in.

Highest-Paying Software Engineering Jobs for PhD Grads

Best software engineering jobs with a doctorate.

Throughout the following sections, we’ll discuss some examples of the best software engineering jobs with a doctorate. We’ll also cover how much they pay, the job outlook, and the highest-paying states for each job.

Computer and information systems managers plan, coordinate, and direct every computer-related activity in their company. They are responsible for making sure the company’s current computer systems can support business goals. 

This position carries a lot of responsibility and can be specialized depending on the specific company needs and your skillset. Your title may be chief information officer, chief technology officer, IT director, or IT security manager.

• Salary with a Software Engineering PhD: $162,930
• Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 482,000
• Highest-Paying States: New York, California, and New Jersey

Computer and information research scientists create computer software and hardware and improve the existing tech. They work across industries and their main responsibility involves studying and solving problems in computing. 

• Salary with a Software Engineering PhD: $142,650
• Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 33,000
• Highest-Paying States: Oregon, Arizona, and Texas

Software developers create computer applications to help organizations reach their full potential. They oversee the entire development process, from communicating with clients to coding the program, to launching the new software and performing software maintenance.

• Salary with a Software Engineering PhD: $120,990
• Number of Jobs: 1,847,900
• Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, and Maryland

Database administrators and architects create and organize software systems to store and secure information. They evaluate their organization’s software requirements, design database models, code new data architecture, and check for errors and inefficiencies.

• Salary with a Software Engineering PhD: $96,110
• Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 168,000
• Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Washington, and California

Postsecondary computer science professors teach advanced courses in computer sciences. They may specialize in a field of computer science like software engineering. Usually, they work in the computer science department of a university and teach one or two courses a semester.

• Salary with a Software Engineering PhD: $89,610
• Job Outlook: 12% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 37,800
• Highest-Paying States: California, Oregon, and District of Columbia

Is a PhD in Software Engineering Worth It?

Yes, getting a PhD in software engineering is worth it. With a PhD, you will develop relevant skills for the job market, work on your research and communication skills, and get a high-paying job in the field. A software engineering PhD opens doors for a range of high-paying positions. While most PhD graduates want to pursue a career in academics, you can also choose to work for the government or engineering companies.

Additional Reading About Software Engineering

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PhD in Software Engineering FAQ

Yes, there are several software engineering events that you can attend for learning and networking. This October, the DotNETOS Conference will take place online, covering .NET 5, .NET 6, and .NET Core for people invested in the .NET community. You can attend for free.

The difference between a software engineer and a programmer is in their focus. Programmers create functional code while software engineers design software from an engineering perspective. Software engineers have to consider end-users and are also programmers themselves.

Some of the best software engineer tools include Adobe Dreamweaver, Gnu Debugger, and Notepad++. A few other popular tools for software engineers are GitHub, Stack Overflow, and Visual Studio.

The top skills for software engineers include programming languages, programming skills, cloud computing foundations, knowledge of DevOps practices, familiarity with the software development process, and strong communication skills.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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PhD Software Engineering Requirements

General information.

Undergraduate Preparation for Admission.

Typically, incoming students will have an undergraduate degree in computer science, though students may have an undergraduate degree in any field. Additionally they must have significant experience in software development. The ideal applicant is one who shows a considerable analytical depth in the practice of software development, typically gained from first-hand experience with large projects. Students admitted without a major in computer science, informatics, or equivalent will be expected to take undergraduate courses to fill any gaps.

Incoming students who already have a M.S. in Computer Science or closely related field may be exempted from (part of) the pre-candidacy course requirements by petition to the Graduate Dean, as filed by the student’s faculty advisor.

Pre-Candidacy Course Requirements

Students must complete the software engineering core courses (SWE 211), five elective courses and at least three quarters of individual study and/or thesis supervision courses. Students must take additional courses of their own choosing, or additional individual studies, so to fulfill 48 credits before advancement to candidacy. The selection of courses should form a coherent educational plan to be approved by the student’s faculty advisor.

All five elective courses must be regular, 4-unit courses from the School of ICS. At least three of the elective courses should be from the SWE 2xx series. Individual study, thesis supervision, and seminars do not qualify as electives.

Additionally, students are expected to attend at least 20 talks from within the several seminar series in ICS. Attendance bears no course credit, but it is required for advancement to candidacy. The student’s faculty advisor is responsible for ensuring this requirement is met.

Advancement (Year 3)

Research Assessment:

Students must find a faculty advisor and successfully complete a research project with that faculty member. The research project should be done over at least two quarters of independent study with that faculty member. The goal of this research assessment is to introduce the student to the practice of scientific publication.

Based on the project, the student must produce a research paper of publishable quality. This research paper must be reviewed by three faculty members in a peer-review process, revised by the student, and approved by the three faculty members.

The research assessment is graded Ph.D. PASS, M.S. PASS or FAIL. In case of M.S. PASS or FAIL, the student can re-submit the paper at most one more time within the maximum period of six months. A second M.S. PASS or FAIL results in disqualification from the doctoral program.

Advancement to Candidacy Examination

Each Ph.D. student must pass the oral advancement to candidacy exam, which assesses the student’s ability to conduct, present, and orally defend research work at the doctoral level. The research project and paper are the basis for the student’s oral advancement to candidacy exam. The oral candidacy exam consists of the research presentation by the student, followed by questions from the candidacy committee.

The student must complete the course requirements, and pass the research assessment prior to advancing to candidacy. The candidacy committee will consist of five faculty members, the majority of whom must be members of the student’s program, and is conducted in accordance with UCI Senate regulations.

Dissertation Proposal (Year 4–5)

Students are required to complete a doctoral dissertation in accordance with Academic Senate regulations. In addition, they must pass an oral thesis defense which consists of a public presentation of the student’s research followed by an oral examination by the student’s doctoral committee. The committee must approve the thesis unanimously.

The normative time for advancement to candidacy is three years. The normative time for completion of the Ph.D. is six years, and the maximum time permitted is seven years.

Dissertation Defense (Year 5–6)

The student must complete the course requirements, and pass the two qualifying examinations prior to advancing to candidacy. The candidacy committee will consist of five faculty members, the majority of whom must be members of the student’s program, and is conducted in accordance with UCI Senate regulations.

The Dissertation Topic Proposal and Dissertation Defense are fairly routine across the PhD programs available in the Department of Informatics. Please see the general pages for those topics, including the announcement policy for public exams.

3 PhD Degrees in Software Engineering in USA for 2024

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PhD Degrees in Software Engineering

Software engineering is a computer-focused career that involves developing computer programs and systems that are user-friendly, innovative, and fit the desires of customers and clients. Software engineering students learn about applying engineering principles to the development of software and computer programs used and accessed on different devices.

The USA remains the world’s most popular destination for international students. Universities in the US dominate the world rankings and the country also offers a wide variety of exciting study locations. State university systems are partially subsidized by state governments, and may have many campuses spread around the state, with hundreds of thousands of students.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.

Grad Program

Grad Programs

Take your software engineering to the next level.

The University of Arizona’s MS in software engineering – offered in person and online – is aimed at helping you further your career or pursue a PhD.

This interdisciplinary graduate program gives you the flexibility to align your studies with diverse areas of software and computer engineering: web and mobile applications, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, embedded systems, cybersecurity and machine learning, for example.

The master’s degree in software engineering is centered around discovery-based education and experiential learning. Students complete design projects and research that emphasize not only development of software engineering solutions, but also they build experience in communication, teamwork, critical thinking and professionalism. 

Join University of Arizona  Systems and Industrial Engineering ,  and contribute to the future of large-scale, multifaceted software systems.

Available Programs:

Accelerated Master’s Program – Main Campus

Master of Science – Main Campus

Master of Science – Online

Doctor of Philosophy – Main Campus ( available starting spring 2024)

Admissions Requirements

Requirements include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university in the United States or equivalent UA-recognized international university. A student who does not have a degree equivalent to the university’s BS in a computing-related program but who is admitted may be required to complete additional graduate-level pre-requisite courses prior to enrolling in some graduate courses. This policy applies to students in the MS-thesis and non-thesis options.

• Students must have obtained an undergraduate degree with a minimum 3.0 average grade point or meet the UA Graduate College’s minimum admissions requirements .
• Applicants whose native language is not English must pass an English proficiency test. A description of acceptable tests can be found on the Graduate College website. 
• Students in the MS non-thesis option are expected to support themselves, individually or with funds from external fellowships and industry.

Application Deadlines

Domestic Applicants Fall and Spring: Rolling admissions

International Applicants Fall and Spring: Rolling admissions

Apply Now Through UA Graduate College

Grad courses, funding information, academic adviser.

The Software Engineering grad adviser assists students with questions about what classes to take, when to take them and how to pass them.

Software Graduate Coordinator

[email protected]

Software engineering

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Program description

Receive an asu-infosys scholarship.

*GRE waiver: GRE score is  Only waived for ASU students with an undergraduate degree(Junior/Senior year) in software engineering and with a 3.75+ GPA. GRE waiver does not apply to PhD applicants.

Application deadlines

Fall:    15th January Spring: 15th September

School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence (formerly CIDSE) Graduate advising office [email protected]

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