computer science phd in uk

Study Postgraduate

Phd in computer science (2024 entry).

Course code

30 September 2024

3-4 years full-time; Up to 7 years part-time

Qualification

Computer Science

University of Warwick

Find out more about our PhD in Computer Science.

The PhD in Computer Science offers exciting opportunities to do cutting-edge research in an internationally renowned environment. The results of the 2021 REF rank Warwick Computer Science 4th out of 90 UK Computer Science departments. This cements our position as one of the top Computer Science departments in the UK, a position we have held for some time under different assessment methodologies.

Course overview

The PhD program is suitable for skilled and highly-motivated students to do research at the frontiers of Computer Science in a broad range of theoretical and applied topics. The program is meant to train students for high-profile jobs in both Academia and Industry.

General entry requirements

Minimum requirements.

2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) and preferably an MSc in a related subject.

English language requirements

You can find out more about our English language requirements Link opens in a new window . This course requires the following:

• IELTS overall score of 6.5, minimum component scores not below 6.0.

International qualifications

We welcome applications from students with other internationally recognised qualifications.

For more information, please visit the international entry requirements page Link opens in a new window .

Additional requirements

There are no additional entry requirements for this course.

Our research

Research themes.

The current research themes include:

• Artificial Intelligence and Human-Centred Computing
• Applied Computing
• Data Science, Systems and Security
• Theory and Foundations

Full details on our current research is available on the Computer Science website. Link opens in a new window

Find a supervisor

Before you make a formal application, your proposal is emailed to a potential supervisor for their consideration. You may not be considered for a research degree if you do not have (and we could not identify) an academic willing to supervise your research.

Explore the research interests of our academic staff. Link opens in a new window

You can also see our general University guidance about finding a supervisor. Link opens in a new window

Tuition fees

Tuition fees are payable for each year of your course at the start of the academic year, or at the start of your course, if later. Academic fees cover the cost of tuition, examinations and registration and some student amenities.

Find your research course fees

Fee Status Guidance

The University carries out an initial fee status assessment based on information provided in the application and according to the guidance published by UKCISA. Students are classified as either Home or Overseas Fee status and this can determine the tuition fee and eligibility of certain scholarships and financial support.

If you receive an offer, your fee status will be stated with the tuition fee information. If you believe your fee status has been incorrectly classified you can complete a fee status assessment questionnaire (follow the instructions in your offer) and provide the required documentation for this to be reassessed.

The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) provides guidance to UK universities on fees status criteria, you can find the latest guidance on the impact of Brexit on fees and student support on the UKCISA website .

Additional course costs

Please contact your academic department for information about department specific costs, which should be considered in conjunction with the more general costs below, such as:

• Core text books
• Printer credits
• Dissertation binding
• Robe hire for your degree ceremony

Scholarships and bursaries

Scholarships and financial support

Find out about the different funding routes available, including; postgraduate loans, scholarships, fee awards and academic department bursaries.

Computer Science Funding Opportunities

Find out more about the various funding opportunities that are available in our department.

Living costs

Find out more about the cost of living as a postgraduate student at the University of Warwick.

Computer Science at Warwick

What are computers capable of? How do we use them to solve major world problems? What are their limitations?

Computer Science at Warwick offers you a community of excellence across the breadth of computer science. Join like-minded thinkers and friends who relish the challenges of shaping future technology.

You will study the theoretical foundation in established areas of the discipline. You will then apply your learning to industrially relevant problems, developing technical and transferable skills which will position you excellently for your future career.

Find out more about us on our website.

Our Postgraduate Taught courses

• Computer Science (MSc)
• Data Analytics (MSc)

Our Postgraduate Research courses

• Computer Science (MSc by Research)
• Computer Science (PhD)

How to apply

The application process for courses that start in September and October 2024 will open on 2 October 2023.

For research courses that start in September and October 2024 the application deadline for students who require a visa to study in the UK is 2 August 2024. This should allow sufficient time to complete the admissions process and to obtain a visa to study in the UK.

How to apply for a postgraduate research course  

After you’ve applied

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Admissions statement

See Warwick’s postgraduate admissions policy.

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Throughout the year we attend exhibitions and fairs online and in-person around the UK. These events give you the chance to explore our range of postgraduate courses, and find out what it’s like studying at Warwick. You’ll also be able to speak directly with our student recruitment team, who will be able to help answer your questions.

Join a live chat with our staff and students, who are here to answer your questions and help you learn more about postgraduate life at Warwick. You can join our general drop-in sessions or talk to your prospective department and student services.

Departmental events

Some academic departments hold events for specific postgraduate programmes, these are fantastic opportunities to learn more about Warwick and your chosen department and course.

See our online departmental events

Warwick Talk and Tours

A Warwick talk and tour lasts around two hours and consists of an overview presentation from one of our Recruitment Officers covering the key features, facilities and activities that make Warwick a leading institution. The talk is followed by a campus tour which is the perfect way to view campus, with a current student guiding you around the key areas on campus.

Connect with us

Learn more about Postgraduate study at the University of Warwick.

We may have revised the information on this page since publication. See the edits we have made and content history .

Why Warwick

Discover why Warwick is one of the best universities in the UK and renowned globally.

9th in the UK (The Guardian University Guide 2024) Link opens in a new window

67th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2024) Link opens in a new window

6th most targeted university by the UK's top 100 graduate employers Link opens in a new window

(The Graduate Market in 2024, High Fliers Research Ltd. Link opens in a new window )

About the information on this page

This information is applicable for 2024 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply. Please read our terms and conditions to find out more.

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

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Discover more about postgraduate research

PhD Computer Science / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

• View full page

The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent).

Other combinations of qualifications and research or work experience may also be considered. Please contact the admissions team to check.

Full entry requirements

Apply online

In your application you’ll need to include:

• The name of this programme
• Your research project title (i.e. the advertised project name or proposed project name) or area of research
• Your proposed supervisor’s name
• If you already have funding or you wish to be considered for any of the available funding
• A supporting statement (see 'Advice to Applicants' for what to include)
• Details of your previous university level study
• Names and contact details of your two referees.

Find out how this programme aligns to the UN Sustainable Development Goals , including learning which relates to:

Goal 4: Quality education

Goal 8: decent work and economic growth, goal 9: industry, innovation and infrastructure, goal 17: partnerships for the goals, programme options, programme description.

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The PhD is a three-year (or six year, if taken part-time) degree resulting in a substantial thesis.

The Department of Computer Science is one of the largest in the UK covering a huge spectrum of Computer Science topics. We currently have research groups ranging from Advanced Processor Technologies to Text Mining.

Our core Computer Science research is augmented by interdisciplinary research taking place at the interface with discipline areas including mathematics, physics, medicine and biology.

A detailed overview of the Department's research groups and core and interdisciplinary research themes is available in the 'research' area of our website and you can identify a possible project from our list of available projects .

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): Band A £4,786; Band B £7,000; Band C £10,000; Band D £14,500; Band E £24,500 International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A £28,000; Band B £30,000; Band C £35,500; Band D £43,000; Band E £57,000
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): Band A £2393; Band B £3,500; Band C £5,000; Band D £7,250; Band E 12,250 International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A £14,000; Band B £15,000; Band C £17,750; Band D £21,500; Band E £28,500

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

The programme fee will vary depending on the cost of running the project. Fees quoted are fully inclusive and, therefore, you will not be required to pay any additional bench fees or administration costs.

All fees for entry will be subject to yearly review and incremental rises per annum are also likely over the duration of the course for Home students (fees are typically fixed for International students, for the course duration at the year of entry). For general fees information please visit the postgraduate fees page .

Always contact the Admissions team if you are unsure which fees apply to your project.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

To be considered for many of our scholarships, you’ll need to be nominated by your proposed supervisor. Therefore, we’d highly recommend you discuss potential sources of funding with your supervisor first, so they can advise on your suitability and make sure you meet nomination deadlines.

For more information about our scholarships, visit our funding page or use our funding database to search for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the world's call to action on the most pressing challenges facing humanity. At The University of Manchester, we address the SDGs through our research and particularly in partnership with our students.

Led by our innovative research, our teaching ensures that all our graduates are empowered, inspired and equipped to address the key socio-political and environmental challenges facing the world.

To illustrate how our teaching will empower you as a change maker, we've highlighted the key SDGs that our programmes address.

Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all

Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all

Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development

Contact details

The School of Engineering creates a world of possibilities for students pursuing skills and understanding. Through dynamic research and teaching we develop engineering solutions that make a difference to society in an ethical and sustainable way.  Science-based engineering is at the heart of what we do, and through collaboration we support the engineers and scientists of tomorrow to become technically strong, analytically innovative and creative. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester .

Programmes in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

• Computer Science
• Informatics

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

Computer Science (4 Year Programme) MPhil/PhD

London, Bloomsbury

The PhD programme in UCL Computer Science is a 4-year programme, in which you will work within research groups on important and challenging problems in the development of computer science. We have research groups that cover many of the leading-edge topics in computer science , and you will be supervised by academics at the very forefront of their field.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

• Entry requirements

A UK Master's degree in a relevant discipline with Merit, or a minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Work experience may also be taken into account.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 1

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

If you are intending to apply for a time-limited visa to complete your UCL studies (e.g., Student visa, Skilled worker visa, PBS dependant visa etc.) you may be required to obtain ATAS clearance . This will be confirmed to you if you obtain an offer of a place. Please note that ATAS processing times can take up to six months, so we recommend you consider these timelines when submitting your application to UCL.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

On this PhD programme, you will work within research groups on challenging computer science projects.

Our research groups cover leading-edge topics , and our academics are at the forefront of their field.

The research groups, the department , and the college, provide numerous opportunities to learn more about your field and the skills required to develop your research and future careers.

Who this course is for

This programme is best suited for people wishing to embark on an academic career, as well as those interested in finding work in industry. You will be assigned a first and second supervisor, who will guide you in the development of your research project and your abilities as a researcher. The research groups, the department, and the college, provide numerous opportunities for you to learn more about your field (e.g. seminars, conferences, and journal clubs) and the skills required for you to develop your research and future careers (e.g. training courses). Many of our students have had their research results published and recognised at leading international conferences during their time on the PhD programme.

What this course will give you

UCL is ranked 9th globally in the latest QS World University Rankings (2024), giving you an exciting opportunity to study at one of the world's best universities.

UCL Computer Science is recognised as a world leader in teaching and research. The department was ranked first in England and second in the UK for research power in Computer Science and Informatics in the most recent Research Excellence Framework ( REF2021 ). You will learn from leading experts with an outstanding reputation in the field. 

Code written at UCL is used across all 3G mobile networks for instant messaging and videoconferencing; medical image computing has led to faster prostate cancer diagnosis and has developed tools to help neurosurgeons avoid damaging essential communication pathways during brain surgery; and our human-centred approach to computer security has transformed the UK government's delivery of online security.

This MPhil/PhD in Computer Science is a research degree programme that will not only challenge and stimulate you, but also has the potential to lead to a varied and interesting career and introduce you to valuable contacts in academia and the industry.

The foundation of your career

Your employability will be greatly enhanced by working alongside world-leading researchers in cutting-edge research areas such as virtual environments, networked systems, human-computer interaction and financial computing. UCL's approach is multi-disciplinary and UCL Computer Science shares ideas and resources from across all departments of Faculty of Engineering Sciences and beyond. Our alumni have a successful record of finding work, or have founded their own successful start-up companies, because they have an excellent understanding of the current questions which face industry and have the skills and the experience to market innovative solutions.

Employability

UCL Computer Science graduates secure careers in a variety of organisations, including global IT consultancies, City banks and specialist companies in manufacturing industries.

The department takes pride in helping students in their career choices and offers placements and internships with numerous start-up technology companies, including those on Silicon Roundabout, world-leading companies such as Google, Skype and Facebook, and multi national finance companies, including Morgan Stanley, Deutsche Bank and JP Morgan.

Our graduates secure roles such as applications developers, information systems managers, IT consultants, multimedia programmers, software engineers and systems analysts in companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Bloomberg, PwC and IBM.

UCL Computer Science is located in the heart of London and subsequently has strong links with industry. You will have regular opportunities to undertake internships at world-leading research organisations. We frequently welcome industry executives to observe your project presentations, and we host networking events with technology entrepreneurs.

You will also benefit from a location close to the City of London and Canary Wharf to work on projects with leading global financial companies. London is also home to numerous technology communities, for example the Graduate Developer Community, who meet regularly and provide mentors for students interested in finding developer roles when they graduate.

Teaching and learning

You are assigned a first and second supervisor who you will meet regularly. You are also assigned a research group who normally meet regularly for research seminars and related activities in the department.

You will participate in three vivas during the course of your study. These are useful feedback opportunities and allow you to demonstrate your understanding of the literature, your progress in your research and eventually, your final thesis and research. For each viva, you will be expected to produce a detailed report of your work to date and to attend a 'verbal exam' with supervisors and/or external academics/experts.

During your research degree, you will have regular meetings with your primary supervisor, in addition to contact with your secondary supervisor and participation in group meetings. Full-time study should comprise of 40 hours per week .

Research areas and structure

• Bioinformatics: protein structure; genome analysis; transmembrane protein modelling; de novo protein design methods; exploiting grid technology; mathematical modelling of biological processes
• Financial computing: software engineering; computational statistics and machine learning; mathematical modelling
• Human centred systems: usability of security and multimedia systems; making sense of information; human error and cognitive resilience
• Information security: human and organisational aspects of security; privacy-enhancing technologies; cryptography and cryptocurrencies; cybersecurity in public policy and international relations; systems security and cybercrime
• Intelligent systems: knowledge representation and reasoning; machine learning
• Media futures: digital rights management; information retrieval; computational social science; recommender systems
• Networks: internet architecture; protocols; mobile networked systems; applications and evolution; high-speed networking
• Programming Principles, Verification and Logic’: logic and the semantics of programs; automated tools for verification and program analysis; produce mathematically rigorous concepts and techniques that aid in the construction and analysis of computer systems; applied logic outreach in AI, security, biology, economics
• Software systems engineering: requirements engineering; software architecture; middleware technologies; distributed systems; software tools and environments; mobile computing
• Virtual environments: presence, virtual characters; interaction; rendering; mixed reality
• Vision and imaging science: face recognition; medical image analysis; statistical modelling of colour information; inverse problems and building mathematical models for augmented reality; diffusion tensor imaging

Research environment

UCL Computer Science is one of the leading university centres for computer science research in Europe. The department is very well-connected with research groups across the university, and is involved in many exciting multi-disciplinary research projects.

Furthermore, research groups in the department are heavily involved in collaborative research and development projects with other universities and with companies in the UK and internationally. UCL provides significant support for technology transfer, and in particular for technology start-ups, and the department has an increasingly successful record of spin-out companies including a number of spin-outs that have been acquired by Google, Facebook, Amazon, etc.

Month 0 Registration - initially MPhil registration.

Month 0-6 - General reading, directed by the supervisor, in the area of interest. This should bring you up to the sharp end of the area and allow you to appreciate what the research problems are.

Months 6-9 - More detailed reading, aimed at becoming expert enough to tackle a thesis project. A small focused project is in order here to pin the reading on. A report on the year's activities should begin to be prepared.

Month 9 - FORMAL 1ST-YEAR VIVA (10-12 for Part-time) This is the first major examination, and must take place no more than 9 months from the start date. A feedback activity. Given a read of your report, the supervisor, 2nd supervisor and an 'assessor' review the work done with the aim of providing you with proper feedback on your work. This is also a good opportunity to get feedback for the Transfer Viva and is often used as a “mock transfer”.

Months 12-18 - FORMAL TRANSFER VIVA (15-21 for Part-time) Also known as the “Upgrade Viva” - this is where you would upgrade your expected qualification from MPhil to PhD. A substantial project report is expected demonstrating the ability to conduct research, with initial research results, and a plan for completion of the work and writing of the thesis. The outcome of the viva will determine whether you are allowed to transfer registration from MPhil to PhD.

Months 24-36 - Thesis project work being tidied up and turned into a unified piece of work. Thesis writing being planned and chapters being drafted. You are now eligible for Completing Research Status

Month 36 - MOCK VIVA (48-60 for Part-time) A draft thesis and mock viva. This is to be attended by the supervisor, second supervisor and assessor and any others thought relevant. Thesis submission forms (aka Entry forms) completed and submitted.

Months 36-42 - Complete the writing of the thesis.

Month 42 - (60-72 for Part-time) Submit thesis.

See full-time summary

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

As each research project is unique in nature, the AFE (Additional Fee Element) is calculated on a student-by-student basis and is determined by your academic supervisor. Please contact your supervisor for further details.

A student conference and travel fund is available to students within the department to help with costs associated with attending and presenting at conferences. Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

UCL offers various funding opportunities for postgraduate students. Please see UCL's Scholarships website for more information.

The department offers funding for overseas and UK students. Please see the Computer Science website for more information.

Home students will have the opportunity to apply for EPSRC DTP Studentships where available.

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

CSC-UCL Joint Research Scholarship

Value: Fees, maintenance and travel (Duration of programme) Criteria Based on academic merit Eligibility: EU, Overseas

Deadlines and start dates are usually dictated by funding arrangements so check with the department or academic unit to see if you need to consider these in your application preparation. All applicants are asked to identify and contact potential supervisors before making an application. For more information see our How to apply page.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2024-2025

Year of entry: 2023-2024, got questions get in touch.

Computer Science

[email protected]

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PhD applications

We are one of the largest computer science departments in the UK and a world leader in academic research, offering an exciting research environment for prospective postgraduate students.

The Department is actively involved in a number of Centres for Doctoral Training, such as the UKRI Centre for Doctoral Training in AI for Healthcare ( AI4Health) , and the UKRI Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Safe and Trusted Artificial Intelligence ( STAI ). Every year between 50-70 successful applicants are accepted for the PhD programme in the Department. We have a wide variety of scholarships for PhD students, including funding from research councils, research projects, industry, and teaching scholarships. More than 80% of our PhD students receive funding.

Applicants are expected to have a First Class or Distinction Masters level degree, or equivalent, in a relevant scientific or technical discipline, such as computer science or mathematics. Candidates who have only a Bachelors degree will not normally be considered, but they can apply to first do an MSc Degree  in the Department.

Applications for 2024 entry will open in October 2023 and afterwards can be made at any time during the year. Applicants for the main departmental PhD degree should apply to the Computing Research degree. There is at present no application fee.

However, we would particularly advise all overseas candidates in the need of funding to apply by the December deadline. Depending on the number of scholarship offers that we will issue, there may still be some funding available for applications received afterwards.

Note that if you are accepted by a supervisor, but do not receive a funding offer by the notification deadline, then it is likely that you have not been awarded funding. Unless otherwise communicated to you, your funding request will then remain under consideration for the following funding rounds. If your funding application is successful later during the year, you will receive a notification. You can refer to the  FAQ if you need to check the status of your application in due course.

We have a wide range of funds and we do our best to find the most appropriate for each candidate. To give you an idea of what funds are available please see the scholarships page . 

Please note that we will normally consider your application only after you have formally applied and your application has been received by the Department. Therefore we recommend that you submit an application prior to contacting academics about research topics.

Details on the application process are available in the application guidelines page . After preparing your application, you can submit it using the College online application system, which you can access by going to the:

Applications are formally processed by the Department only when the full paperwork has been received and processed by the College Registry. So we strongly advise you to read:

• Postgraduate prospectus
• Application guidance notes
• Postgraduate research admissions policy

We believe in the importance of diversity in both our department and the research fields we work in. We aim to create and foster a collaborative environment within the department where everyone feels welcome. We encourage applicants of all backgrounds and ages to apply, in particular women, disabled, BAME and LGBTQIA+ candidates. Imperial College London is  committed  to equality, diversity and inclusion.

The Department has an equal opportunities policy and encourages applications from people with disabilities. You are invited to declare your disability to our PhD Admissions Tutor in order to discuss early on suitable arrangements for your PhD studies. Please also see the College's arrangements for people with disabilities .

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The PhD is the primary research degree that can be taken in the Department of Computer Science and Technology. The Cambridge PhD is a three to four-year full-time (five to seven-year part-time) programme of individual research on a topic agreed by the student and the Department, under the guidance of a staff member as the student's supervisor. 

All research students are admitted to read for the PhD degree on a probationary basis and will be registered for the Certificate of Postgraduate Study (CPGS) in the first instance. During this year students may do some additional coursework and will write a research report that is likely to form the foundation of the eventual PhD thesis. The CPGS will involve four components:

Research skills training

Practical work

Research report of no more than 10,000 words

Attendance at a research workshops and research seminars

At the end of the third term and on completion of the CPGS, students whose performance indicates that they would be able to complete a PhD in a reasonable time will be upgraded to PhD status. A student who is not upgraded to PhD status, and who has completed three terms of study, will normally be awarded the CPGS alone. They will not submit a thesis for the PhD degree.

There is an expectation that all research students will contribute to teaching in the department for which some training will be provided. Research students will submit a log - or tally-sheet - of teaching activities annually at the end of June. 

Students are expected to complete the substance of their research by the end of their third year, submitting their thesis then or within a few months.

Applicants wishing to apply to undertake a PhD on a part-time basis should refer to the Department's admissions advice for potential part-time students.

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the  Postgraduate Open Day  page for more details.

See further the  Postgraduate Admissions Events  pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

Key Information

3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time, study mode : research, doctor of philosophy, department of computer science and technology, course - related enquiries, application - related enquiries, course on department website, dates and deadlines:, lent 2024 (closed).

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Michaelmas 2024

Funding deadlines.

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2024, Lent 2025 and Easter 2025.

Similar Courses

• Advanced Computer Science MPhil
• Machine Learning and Machine Intelligence MPhil
• Linguistics: Theoretical and Applied Linguistics PhD
• Biological Science (EBI) PhD
• Medical Science (Oncology) MPhil

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Department of Computer Science

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PhD in Computer Science

You will be based in the Department of Computer Science overlooking the lake on Campus East .

You will benefit from modern offices and collaboration spaces, and well-equipped research labs with a specialist in-department team to support your requirements throughout your studies. 

We will provide you with a laptop connected to the University network, and you will have 24/7 access to your desk and workspace. Distance learning students are allocated a work desk for the duration of their stay while they are in York.

For on-campus researchers, most of your training and supervision meetings will take place on campus at the University of York, though your research may take you further afield.

PhD by distance learning

We offer the opportunity to study for a PhD by distance learning. This is available to students based in the UK and abroad, studying full-time or part-time. Our PhD by distance learning offers the same high quality of supervisory support (primarily online), and demands the same level of academic rigour as a campus-based PhD.

You will undertake your research and thesis production remotely, joining us on campus only occasionally. You will be expected to visit York at your own expense at the following stages of your study:

• Two weeks at the start of enrolment for induction, to meet your supervisor and your research group, and to meet other PhD students;
• Two one-week visits each year at important stages ('milestones') of your study (the number of visits is reduced accordingly if you are a part-time student);
• You will normally attend your PhD viva in person.

When you are not in York, you will continue to benefit from regular supervision meetings using online communication platforms, such as Zoom. Read more about how we support distance learners .

Are you an international applicant? It is important for you to note that it is your responsibility to meet any requirements for legal entry into the UK at the time of each of your visits. While the University and Department can provide supporting letters, the University cannot make any guarantees regarding entry visas or legal residence.  Read more about applying for a visa.

Entry requirements

Undergraduate and masters degrees.

The PhD in Computer Science is intended for students who already have a good first degree in Computer Science or a related field.

For entry to the PhD programme, we require at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree, or a qualification equivalent to a UK Masters degree with a minimum average grade of 60%.

We are willing to consider your application if you do not fit this profile, providing you are able to demonstrate that you have the required amount of Computer Science knowledge and experience to succeed on the programme.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must provide evidence of your ability.

Find out more about English Language requirements for research degrees

How to apply

Find a potential supervisor.

You should find a potential supervisor in our Department whose area of research overlaps with yours. We encourage you to contact them to discuss your research proposal before you apply. Please identify the name of your potential supervisor in your application.

On our Research web pages, you can explore our research groups which reflect the core research strengths and expertise within the Department of Computer Science. On the web page for each research group, you'll find more information about the aims and objectives of the group and the names of group members. You can use this information to identify the groups where research interests match your own.

If you have any questions or need further information, please contact [email protected] .

Submit your application

We require you to submit the following documents:

• Research proposal
• Academic transcript(s )
• Your curriculum vitae (CV)
• Personal statement
• Details of two academic referees

Your research proposal needs to outline the nature of your proposed study and give some indication of how you will conduct your research. The purpose of this exercise is to ensure that you and your potential supervisor(s) have matching research interests.

Your proposal can build on your chosen supervisor's area of work and may be prepared with the help of your chosen supervisor. It should be about 500 to 1,000 words in length, in English and in your own words. Read more about writing a research proposal .

You can apply and send all your documentation electronically through our online system. You don’t need to complete your application all at once: you can start it, save it and finish it later.

After you have applied, you can track the status of your application and view any official correspondence online. If you have applied for an advertised scholarship, decisions on funded places may take a little longer.

Applicant interviews

If we are impressed by your full application, personal statement and references, we will invite you to interview.

The interview panel will be made up of your potential supervisor(s) and another independent academic. During your interview, it is important that you demonstrate an understanding of your chosen topic and its supporting theories.

For students based outside the UK, interviews are held online via Zoom. Applicants based in the UK are offered the opportunity to attend their interview in York. If you choose to attend in person, your visit will include a tour of the Department and its facilities.

Related links Explore our PhD opportunities Research groups in the Department of Computer Science About our research degrees Applying for a research degree Funding for research degrees Information for International students Accommodation Life at York

Department of Computer Science Deramore Lane , University of York , Heslington , York , YO10 5GH , UK Tel: work 01904 325501

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Key information.

Duration: 4 years full time or 5 years part time

Institution code: R72

Campus: Egham

UK fees * : £4,786

International/EU fees ** : £26,300

Computer Science at Royal Holloway is one of the world's leading centres of research in advanced areas of theoretical and applied computer science.

We are renowned in particular for our research excellence in Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, and Distributed Computing. Our research expertise is shaping the future of those key areas for society and the economy.

In the latest Research Excellence Frameworks (REF, 2021), we ranked 17th in the UK computer science departments for the quality of our research (THE, REF institutions ranked by subject, 2022).

Collaborative research is carried out in many different fields with companies and organisations, from finance to the analysis of movie scripts, from computational simulations of epidemics to foundational aspects of probability and logic.

We welcome applications for Postgraduate Research studies from across the world, and the department has earned a Bronze Athena SWAN award for best practice in equal opportunities and our inclusive environment.

In addition to the information below, check our separate page on the topics in which we supervise.

Research facilities and environment

Research students in Computer Science join a lively research community and become fully involved in the research activities of the department, sharing their successes. Many of our research students present papers at international conferences, with financial support from the department. 

A Postgraduate Colloquium is held annually: all second and third-year research students give 15-minute talks to present the results of their research achieved during the year to members of staff from different research groups, fellow research students, and external guests; first-year students give a poster presentation.

Regular departmental research seminars include talks by professionals in a variety of application areas, and there is a separate student-organised 'cakes talk' series which allows students to develop their presentational skills. We have a weekly social event to which all students, research assistants and staff are invited. Royal Holloway provides dedicated social space for graduate students, facilitating inter-departmental links. 

Major research topics include Algorithms and Complexity, Bioinformatics and Medical Applications, Machine Learning, Planning, Cyber-Physical Systems, Distributed Computing, and Type Theory and Applications.

Especially for topics that involve data analytics, the department has a dedicated state-of-the-art computing cluster HP DL380 comprising 32 processors, 32 Terabytes of disk storage, GPU and RDMA networking. The cluster is currently running the full-fledged Hortonworks Hadoop distribution (HDP) as well as the PostgreSQL and MongoDB servers.

You will have 24/7 access to dedicated on-site facilities and equipment.

Students who are admitted to this programme are initially registered on a MPhil programme. Before the end of their second year of studies they will have an upgrade meeting; if successful, they then become registered on the PhD Computer Science programme.

To be awarded a PhD Computer Science degree, students must submit their thesis, and pass their viva examination with one internal and one external examiner.

Entry requirements

A good first degree or masters in a cognate discipline to computer science, and relevant to the proposed research project. We are also prepared to consider candidates with extensive practical or industrial experience that would be relevant to the project. As a guideline, English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.5 is expected.

English language requirements

All teaching at Royal Holloway is in English. You will therefore need to have good enough written and spoken English to cope with your studies right from the start.

The scores we require

• IELTS: 6.5 overall. Writing 7.0. No other subscore lower than 5.5.
• Pearson Test of English: 61 overall. Writing 69. No other subscore lower than 51.
• Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE): ISE III.
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) grade C.
• TOEFL ib: 88 overall, with Reading 18 Listening 17 Speaking 20 Writing 26.

Country-specific requirements

For more information about country-specific entry requirements for your country please see  here .

Our graduates have an excellent track record of finding employment.  PhD graduates from this department are now in senior positions in both academia and industry, including senior research managers at both Facebook and Amazon.

During term-time, we have weekly talks by external speakers from industry: these occasions are useful for graduate students to make external contacts and to learn of opportunities. In addition to the support provided by The Careers and Employability Service, the department has a coordinator to advise on career development and job opportunities.

Fees & funding

Home (UK) students tuition fee per year*: £4,786

EU and international students tuition fee per year**: £26,300

Other essential costs***: There are no single associated costs greater than £50 per item on this course

…How do I pay for it? Find out more about   funding options,   including loans, grants,   scholarships   and bursaries. 

* and ** These tuition fees apply to students enrolled on a full-time basis in the academic year 2024/25.

* Please note that for research courses, we adopt the minimum fee level recommended by the UK Research Councils for the Home   tuition fee. Each year, the fee level is adjusted in line with inflation (currently, the measure used is the Treasury GDP deflator). Fees displayed here are therefore subject to change and are usually confirmed in the spring of the year of entry.   For more information on the Research Council Indicative Fee please see the   UKRI website.

** This figure is the fee for EU and international students starting a degree in the academic year 2024/25.   

Royal Holloway reserves the right to increase all postgraduate tuition fees annually, based on the UK’s Retail Price Index (RPI). Please therefore be aware that tuition fees can rise during your degree (if longer than one year’s duration), and that this also means that the overall cost of studying the course part-time will be slightly higher than studying it full-time in one year. For further information, please see our  terms and conditions .

***   These estimated costs relate to studying this particular degree at Royal Holloway during the 2024/25 academic year and are included as a guide. Costs, such as accommodation, food, books and other learning materials and printing, have not been included. 

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Discover world-class research at Royal Holloway.

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We’ve played a role in thousands of careers, some of them particularly remarkable.

Find about our decision-making processes and the people who lead and manage Royal Holloway today.

• Postgraduate Research

Computer Science PhD / MPhil

• Part time available: yes

Studying in:

• Computer Science
• School of Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Computer Science
• Faculty of Science and Engineering

Pursue your postgraduate programme at the University of Liverpool and you'll be part of a Computer Science school that's internationally renowned for its advanced research and teaching.

Why study with us?

There is a real sense of community, and the supervisors and staff are always willing to offer advice and motivation. There is a good balance between the practical training that is required to develop research skills and the independence to conduct your research. Paul Gainer - Computer Science PhD student

of research environment rated as 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent' in the latest Research Excellence Framework (2021).

refurbishment of Grade II listed building.

in the UK for world-leading research output in the latest Research Excellence Framework (2021)

Established in 1983, our department has grown into a vibrant environment. In 2014 we became one of the top 10 computer science departments in the UK after 97% of our research was rated as world leading and internationally excellent by the Research Excellence Framework.

Computer Science at the University of Liverpool is research-driven and internationally renowned for its cutting-edge work. The 2014 Research Excellence Framework rated 97% of our research as being world-leading or internationally excellent, the highest proportion of any Computer Science department in the UK.

With our close industry partnerships and Russell Group status we enjoy strong funding and have recently invested £5m in our facilities. It is the perfect setting for world class experts to do ground-breaking research.

To best support our research we have flexible platforms that reflect our core interests and strengths. These platforms inspire innovative cross-disciplinary collaborations, with specialists throughout the University and across the world.

Research plays an important role in the life of the Department, and members of the Department are well known internationally for their ongoing contributions to the theory and practice of Computing. This has consistently been recognised in research assessment exercises over a number of years.

Research interests

The scientists in the Algorithms Section focus on the theory and applications of algorithms and also on understanding and coping with complexity. Scientists in our section also design and implement experimental software in order to test, apply and evaluate advanced algorithmic techniques. Our era has been characterised as “the era of Algorithms”. Our scientists investigate several aspects of this important field, including algorithmic optimisation, algorithms for networks and distributed computing, algorithmic game theory and algorithmic economics, and also computability and complexity of problems. The section is organised thematically in three corresponding research groups:

• Algorithms, Complexity Theory and Optimisation
• Economics and Computation
• Networks and Distributed Computing.

Research in the Algorithms Section mainly builds on Computer Science. However there exists a growing interdisciplinary flavor where algorithmic thought is inspired by problems in economics, mathematics, chemistry, statistical physics, engineering and biology/medicine. The Algorithms Section has several externally funded research projects (UK and EU funding) and also engages in applied industry-driven algorithmic research and design of associated software (e.g. auctions, network data analytics, traffic analysis, social media algorithmic applications and analysis, new materials construction, biological systems, banking). Details can be found on the group pages.

The Algorithms Section is a leader in algorithms and complexity in the UK and also one of the leading teams world-wide. The scientists of the section publish in a variety of very competitive conferences on algorithms and theory of computing. The section has a strong presence on the editorial boards, and organisation and program committees of major events in algorithms and complexity.

The Algorithms Section is involved in a state of the art Software Lab, in cooperation with the EEE&CS School initiative NeST ( Network Sciences and Technologies ).  The lab is equipped with several servers, several software platforms, a network of tiny devices (arduinos) and several high-speed connections. The lab aims to apply algorithms to create modern and efficient software and has already produced some software products in cooperation with local industry.

Agent Applications, Research and Technology

Scientific staff in the AI Section focuses on the theory and practice of building intelligent systems across core areas of artificial intelligence, including knowledge representation, data mining and machine learning, argumentation, robotics and autonomous systems, and verification. The section is organised thematically in four corresponding research groups:

• Argumentation and Representation of Knowledge
• Data Mining and Machine Learning
• Robotics and Autonomous Systems
• Verification.

Research in the AI section mainly builds on computer science but also has an interdisciplinary flavour by taking inspiration from fields such as economics, biology, mathematics, and engineering. The AI section has several externally funded research projects (UK and EU funding), and also engages in applied industry-driven research projects (e.g. law, robotics, pharmaceutical companies). The details of these projects can be found on the individual group pages. The AI section plays an internationally leading role by publishing at leading AI conferences, and has a strong presence on the editorial boards, and organisation and program committees of major events in AI.

The AI section is involved in a state-of-the-art robotics laboratory named smARTLab ( swarms, multi-agent and robot technologies, and learning Lab ).   smARTLab has two large experimentation facilities for research and development of ground robots and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

Research themes

The current research platforms are grouped into two main sections, each containing a number of more specialised areas.  These are:

Algorithms Section

Artificial Intelligence Section

Research groups

Algorithms section

• Algorithms and Networks .

Artificial Intelligence section

Study options and fees

The fees stated in the table above exclude potential research support fees also known as ‘bench fees’. You will be notified of any fee which may apply in your offer letter.

* Please note that if you are undertaking a PhD within the Faculty of Science and Engineering the fee you pay, Band A or Band B, will reflect the nature of your research project. Some research projects incur a higher fee than others e.g. if you are required to undertake laboratory work. You will be informed of the fee for your programme in your offer letter.

^ Self-funded, full-time international students studying a PhD programme classified as Band A will receive a £2,000 reduction in their fees for the first year only.

Entry requirements

To be eligible, applicants should possess at least a 2:1 class Honours degree (or its equivalent) in Computer Science or in a related subject. Applications should indicate proposed research topics.

English language requirements

How to apply.

Research degree applications can be made online.  You'll also need to ensure that you have funding to cover all fees.

Applications are  open all year round .

More about applying for research degrees

Apply online

Before you apply, we recommend that you identify a supervisor and develop a research proposal

Find a supervisor

• Professor Sven Schewe

Need help finding a supervisor? Contact us

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +44 (0)151 794 4532

Related studentships: self-funded and funded PhD projects

Related doctoral training partnerships.

Doctoral Training Partnerships support future researchers with funding and a rewarding learning environment where you can collaborate with leading researchers.

• EPSRC CDT in Distributed Algorithms
• ERDF Low Carbon Eco-Innovatory (LCEI)
• STFC Liverpool Big Data Science (LIVDAT) CDT
• CESRC Data Analytics and Society
• University of Liverpool Doctoral Network in Technologies for Healthy Ageing

Find a scholarship

We offer a range of scholarships to help you meet the costs of studying a research degree.

See scholarships

Find a course

• A-Z of courses /
• Studentship vacancies

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PhD in Computer Science

The University of Birmingham offers supervision for the degree of Ph.D. in Computer Science in many research areas of computer science.

Our research is ranked 3rd across all UK universities  according to the latest UK-wide Research Excellence Framework. Education is ranked 7th in the UK for computer science, according to 2023 tables. While pursuing excellence in research and education, we also aim to optimise our positive impact on society—examples include collaborations with industry partners and charities, commercialisation activities and an extensive wider participation programme. To support its aims, the School offers a vibrant, open and intellectually stimulating research environment. 

We are looking for highly motivated and well-qualified graduates to join us to work towards a doctorate. 

Applying for PhD

Your first step is to decide what research direction you want to pursue and to identify one or more potential supervisors among our faculty members. To help you find the right research direction and guide you through our application process, we offer the following two approaches to apply for our PhD programme.

Explore our advertised PhD opportunities . We offer a number of well-defined research ideas, which are regularly advertised on this page.

Propose your own research interests . We offer the opportunity to indicate your research direction and motivate your interest to work with our faculty members. 

You can apply for one of our advertised projects or propose your own research interests. Whichever option you choose, our PhD program will give you the opportunity to pursue original research under the guidance of our faculty members. To be accepted onto our PhD programme, you must be enthusiastic about continuing to study computer science and must demonstrate engagement with one of our research themes . You must identify one or more potential supervisors  and demonstrate your interest in their research domain. You are welcomed to contact potential supervisors informally before applying. 

Upcoming application deadline: 1 April 2024, 16:00 UK time

We automatically consider all applications for scholarships, unless the candidate explicitly opts out (e.g., when having external funding). Studentships are awarded through a competitive selection process.

Email: [email protected]

Twitter:  Follow us  @uobcompsci

PhD opportunities

Further information.

The University has many resources available to assist you in applying to study with us, for more information please the university's research support page .

Department of Computer Science

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Are you interested in studying for a PhD in Computer Science at one of the UK's leading universities? The Department of Computer Science 8th nationally for the quality of our research environment, showing that we are a vibrant and progressive place to undertake research.

PhD in computer science

Find a PhD in computer science, where innovation meets proven excellence. Make your own world-leading discoveries and apply now.

Our computer science PhD programme promotes collaborative research and innovation. We focus on projects that push the boundaries of what is possible in science and technology. 

You might want to study for a PhD to:

• become an expert in a research field
• gain advanced research skills
• open up more career opportunities

Our PhD students have the opportunity to engage in research that spans cutting-edge topics. You will become a part of a supportive and dynamic research community.

Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021

PhD opportunities in computer science

We have a range of computing PhD projects currently seeking doctoral candidates.

PhD project

Funding type: Unfunded   PhD type: named project   Application deadline: 30 June 2024

Funding type: Funded through PhD programme   PhD type: named project   Application deadline: 30 June 2024

Propose your own computing PhD topic

We champion innovative thinking and original research proposals in computer science. Our research domains include:

• Argument technology addresses theoretical and practical aspects of argumentation within artificial intelligence with applications to various significant societal challenges.
• Computing theory & methodologies addresses the foundational, methodological, and architectural aspects of modern computing systems.
• Human-centred computing focuses on augmentative & alternative communication and user experience (UX) 
• Medical image analysis & computer vision  develops and applies visual data analysis and machine learning for biomedical, space exploration, and vision applications. 

If you wish to propose a topic of your own, please connect with an academic staff member before applying. We support applications that align with our research areas. We will not consider applications that lack academic support.

• How to write your best postgraduate research proposal

Entry requirements

You should have an honours degree at 2.1 or above, and/or a Masters degree in a relevant discipline.

English language requirements

We also accept other English language qualifications

You do not need to prove your knowledge of English if  you are a national of certain countries .

Don't meet the English language requirements?

English language programmes.

Prepare for university study and benefit from extra English tuition with an  English language programme .

Computer Science PhD tuition fees

Tuition fee per year of study (subject to a 3% annual increase for Scottish/Rest of UK students and a 5% annual increase for International students).

Part time study, where available, is charged on a pro-rata basis.

Scottish/Rest of UK fee status annual increase

Each year, UKRI sets a recommended fee and stipend level for Scottish/Rest of UK students, which we use as the basis for fees charged to this group.

UKRI usually increases its fee and stipend levels in line with inflation, based on the Treasury GDP deflator. 

Therefore, the Scottish/Rest of UK fees detailed in this table for 2025/26 (and beyond) can only be estimated according to the typical increase. 

The fee charged to you may differ, though only slightly, from the figure given.

Please contact one of us to discuss our PhD in Computer Science opportunities before you apply.

Computing PhD Lead

[email protected]

Head of Computing (Discipline)

[email protected]

Apply for a PhD in computer science

You can apply for a PhD degree in computer science using our Direct Application System.

Before applying, you must speak to one of our academics listed above.

We have three start dates per academic year.

PhD Computing

• Apply to start in May 2024
• Apply to start in September 2024
• Apply to start in January 2025
• Apply to start in May 2025

PhD Computing (part time)

Disabled students.

We welcome applications from disabled students.

• Information for applicants declaring a disability

If you are visiting our campus from another university, you must apply to us so that you can get access to our facilities.

Computing (non-graduating) (research)

Science & engineering (non-graduating) (research).

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Computer Science Integrated PhD

Our Computer Science Integrated PhD combines taught master's computer science modules with research.

You are currently viewing course information for entry year:

Start date(s):

• September 2024

This Integrated PhD in Computer Science provides an opportunity to make a unique contribution to computer science research. You'll work within a research group, guided by experts and supported by a team of advisers.

Our Computer Science Integrated PhD (IPhD) allows you to match your studies with your interests. You can choose from a wide range of modules and select your own focus for your final project.

Our computer science research

Based in the School of Computing , our research reflects our strengths, capabilities and critical mass. Research supervision is available under our seven research areas.

The  AMBER  group aims to equip systems and software engineering practitioners with effective methods and tools for developing the most demanding computer systems. We do this by means of models with well-founded semantics.

Open Lab  is the leading academic research centre for human-computer interaction (HCI) and ubiquitous computing (Ubicomp) research outside of the USA. It conducts research across a wide range of fundamental topics in HCI and Ubicomp, including:

• interaction design methods, techniques and technologies
• mobile, social and wearable computing
• computational behaviour analysis

ICOS  carries out research at the interface of computing science and complex biological systems. We seek to create the next generation of algorithms that provide innovative solutions to problems arising in natural or synthetic systems. We use our interdisciplinary expertise in machine intelligence, complex systems and computational biology.

The  Scalable Systems  group creates the enabling technology we need to deliver tomorrow's large-scale services. This includes work on:

• scalable cloud computing
• big data analytics
• distributed algorithms
• stochastic modelling
• performance analysis
• video game technologies
• green computing

The  Secure and Resilient Systems  group investigates fundamental concepts, development techniques, models, architectures and mechanisms that directly contribute to creating dependable and secure information systems, networks and infrastructures. We aim to target real-world challenges to the dependability and security of the next generation:

• information systems
• cyber-physical systems
• critical infrastructures

The  Educational Practice in Computing  group focusses on encouraging, fostering and pursuing innovation in teaching computing science. Through this group, your research will focus on pedagogy. You'll apply your research to maximise the impact of innovative teaching practices, programmes and curricula in the School. Examples of innovation work within the group include:

• teacher training and the national Computing at School initiative
• outreach activities including visits to schools and hosting visits by schools
• participation in national fora for teaching innovation

The NUSE group provides quality of life improvements in the digital age. They address challenges in systems engineering for real-world applications. This includes autonomous transportation, green energy, online safety, big data analysis and digital health.

Their core research strengths include:

• cloud/edge computing and big data management
• Internet-of-things (IoT) and cyber resilience
• edge intelligence
• knowledge representation and reasoning
• health data management
• real-time simulations
• video game engineering

Research excellence

The excellence of our research has been recognised through awards of large research grants. Three recent examples are:

• Centre for Doctoral Training in Cloud Computing for Big Data . Funded by Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
• Centre for Doctoral Training in Digital Civics. Funded by Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
• A £10m project to look at novel treatment for epilepsy. Funded by the Wellcome Trust and Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Research Grant

Important information

We've highlighted important information about your course. Please take note of any deadlines.

Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to Covid-19.

View our  Academic experience page , which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2023-24.

See our  terms and conditions and student complaints information , which gives details of circumstances that may lead to changes to programmes, modules or University services.

Related courses

Qualifications explained.

Find out about the different qualification options for this course.

(only use this component if course has more than one qualification option)

Each IPhD contains a significant and tailored taught component, assessed annually, and culminates with a research project written up as a thesis.

The taught component is the main difference between the IPhD and a standard PhD programme.

Find out about different types of postgraduate qualifications

What you'll learn

The IPhD combines taught master's level modules with research. As an IPhD student, you'll initially study alongside students on one of our computer science master's.

You can choose from one of the following:

• Advanced Computer Science MSc
• Bioinformatics MSc
• Cloud Computing MSc
• Computer Game Engineering MSc
• Cyber Security MSc
• Data Science MSc
• Data Science and AI MSc
• Data Science (with specialisation in Statistics) MSc
• Data Science with Visualisation MSc
• Human-Computer Interaction MSc

Additionally, you'll take the 30-credit short project module Project and Dissertation for MCOMP . The project topic should match the specialisation.

You will study modules on this course. A module is a unit of a course with its own approved aims and outcomes and assessment methods.

Module information is intended to provide an example of what you will study.

Our teaching is informed by research. Course content changes periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.

Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.

Optional modules availability

Some courses have optional modules. Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.

To find out more please see our terms and conditions .

How you'll learn

As this is an integrated PhD you'll complete taught modules and receive support from our doctoral training centres, Faculty Training Programme and Research Student Support Team.

Your first research year will be spent identifying a hypothesis and developing an approach to answer it.

You'll also take short courses on research skills, innovation, personal and career development. The study skills you gain will help you manage your research project. You'll receive training in:

• presentations
• interviewing
• technical skills
• teaching skills

Once your supervisor has approved your research topic you can conduct your research.

Depending on your modules, you'll be assessed through a combination of:

• Computer assessment
• Design or creative project
• Dissertation
• Professional skills assessments
• Oral examination
• Oral presentation
• Practical lab report
• Problem-solving exercises
• Reflective log
• Written exercise

Your assessment includes:

• a written thesis
• an oral examination called a viva

At your viva you'll discuss your research with two examiners. This includes a leading researcher from outside Newcastle University.

All our staff will work to support you in your studies, from admissions to graduation and your career beyond.

To get the most out of your study experience, we'll encourage you to take part in a variety of activities. This includes taking part in seminars delivered by distinguished external speakers.

Our mission is to help you:

• stay healthy, positive and feeling well
• overcome any challenges you may face during your degree – academic or personal
• get the most out of your postgraduate research experience
• carry out admin and activities essential to progressing through your degree
• understand postgraduate research processes, standards and rules

We can offer you tailored wellbeing support, courses and activities.

You can also access a broad range of workshops covering:

• research and professional skills
• careers support
• health and safety
• public engagement
• academic development

Our teaching staff have international reputations, including some with extensive experience as practitioners.

Your development

Faculty of science, agriculture and engineering (sage) researcher development programme .

Each faculty offers a researcher development programme for its postgraduate research students. We have designed your programme to help you:

• perform better as a researcher
• boost your career prospects
• broaden your impact

Through workshops and activities, it will build your transferable skills and increase your confidence.

You’ll cover:

• techniques for effective research
• methods for better collaborative working
• essential professional standards and requirements

Your programme is flexible. You can adapt it to meet your changing needs as you progress through your doctorate.

Find out more about the SAgE researcher development programme

Your future

Members of our industry advisory group help to ensure that the programme is relevant to the needs of business and industry today. There are opportunities to choose a project for your final dissertation that has some industry involvement associated with it.

Our Careers Service

Our award-winning Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.

Visit our Careers Service website

Quality and ranking

All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body

From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK

Check the government’s website for more information .

The School of Computing is based in the £58million Urban Sciences Building, a flagship development located on the £350m Newcastle Helix regeneration site in the heart of Newcastle. It brings together:

• the public sector
• communities
• business and industry

Fees and funding

Tuition fees for 2024 entry (per year), home fees for research degree students.

For 2024-25 entry, we will be aligning our standard Home research fees with those set by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) . The standard fee will be confirmed in Spring 2024 by UKRI. The Home tuition fees for this course will be updated after this confirmation. 

If your studies last longer than one year, your tuition fee may increase in line with inflation.

Depending on your residency history, if you’re a student from the EU, other EEA or a Swiss national, with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you’ll normally pay the ‘Home’ tuition fee rate and may be eligible for Student Finance England support.

EU students without settled or pre-settled status will normally be charged fees at the ‘International’ rate and will not be eligible for Student Finance England support.

If you are unsure of your fee status, check out the latest guidance here .

Scholarships

We support our EU and international students by providing a generous range of Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships. See  our   searchable postgraduate funding page  for more information.  

What you're paying for

Tuition fees include the costs of:

• matriculation
• registration
• tuition (or supervision)
• library access
• examination
• re-examination

Find out more about:

• living costs
• tuition fees

If you are an international student or a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland and you need a visa to study in the UK, you may have to pay a deposit.

You can check this in the How to apply section .

If you're applying for funding, always check the funding application deadline. This deadline may be earlier than the application deadline for your course.

For some funding schemes, you need to have received an offer of a place on a course before you can apply for the funding.

Search for funding

Find funding available for your course

Entry requirements

The entrance requirements below apply to 2024 entry.

Qualifications from outside the UK

English language requirements, admissions policy.

This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University. It is intended to provide information about our admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.

Download our admissions policy (PDF: 201KB) Other policies related to admissions

Credit transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can allow you to convert existing relevant university-level knowledge, skills and experience into credits towards a qualification. Find out more about the RPL policy which may apply to this course

• How to apply

Using the application portal

The application portal has instructions to guide you through your application. It will tell you what documents you need and how to upload them.

You can choose to start your application, save your details and come back to complete it later.

If you’re ready, you can select Apply Online and you’ll be taken directly to the application portal.

Alternatively you can find out more about applying on our applications and offers pages .

Open days and events

You'll have a number of opportunities to meet us throughout the year including:

• campus tours
• on-campus open days
• virtual open days

Find out about how you can visit Newcastle in person and virtually

Overseas events

We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Newcastle University.

Visit our events calendar for the latest events

• Get in touch

Questions about this course?

If you have specific questions about this course you can contact:

Admissions Secretary School of Computing Telephone: +44 (0) 191 208 2736 Email: [email protected]

For more general enquiries you could also complete our online enquiry form.

Fill in our enquiry form

Our Ncl chatbot might be able to give you an answer straight away. If not, it’ll direct you to someone who can help.

You'll find our Ncl chatbot in the bottom right of this page.

Keep updated

We regularly send email updates and extra information about the University.

Receive regular updates by email

Chat to a student

Chat online with current students with our Unibuddy platform.

• What You'll Learn
• How You'll Learn
• Your Development
• Your Future
• Quality and Ranking
• Fees and Funding
• Entry Requirements
• Open days & events

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Computer Science PhD

• Full-time: Up to 4 years
• Part-time: Up to 8 years
• Start date: Multiple start dates
• UK fees: £5,100
• International fees: £28,600

Research overview

Join our research team to work on projects that have an impact in the real world. From optimisation for airports to machine learning for energy suppliers, we do computer science from theory to application. 

The school's research topics include:

• artificial intelligence
• computational optimisation
• computer vision
• cyber security
• data science
• functional programming
• human-computer interaction
• machine learning

Find out more on our  research webpages . 

Project case study

Rodrigo Pinheiro  did his PhD at Nottingham. The title of his thesis was " A Computational Study and Heuristic Algorithms for the Home Healthcare Scheduling and Routing Problem " supervised by Prof Dario Landa Silva .

During his PhD, Rodrigo became the associate in a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project between the University and  Webroster Ltd . The project was on optimisation for workforce scheduling and routing in home care.

Rodrigo then joined Webroster, first as Optimisation Specialist then Head of Data Science. Now, he is Head of Data Science at a new company developed to focus on the optimisation engine from the KTP and his PhD.

Course content

In the first year, you will focus on learning what research is already published and identifying gaps in knowledge. You will start to formulate your own research questions.

In year two, you'll start to answer the questions you created in year one. 

In the final year, you'll finish your research and prepare for writing your thesis. 

You will complete a written thesis of up to 100,000 words, with expert support and advice from your academic supervisor(s). You will also take a verbal examination called a viva voce where you explain your project in-depth to an examination panel.

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2024 entry.

Meeting our English language requirements

If you need support to meet the required level, you may be able to attend a presessional English course. Presessional courses teach you academic skills in addition to English language. Our  Centre for English Language Education is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.

If you successfully complete your presessional course to the required level, you can then progress to your degree course. This means that you won't need to retake IELTS or equivalent.

For on-campus presessional English courses, you must take IELTS for UKVI to meet visa regulations. For online presessional courses, see our CELE webpages for guidance.

Visa restrictions

International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK. Student route visas can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The University of Nottingham does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses. The Standard Visitor visa route is not appropriate in all cases. Please contact the university’s Visa and Immigration team if you need advice about your visa options.

We recognise that applicants have a variety of experiences and follow different pathways to postgraduate study.

We treat all applicants with alternative qualifications on an individual basis. We may also consider relevant work experience.

If you are unsure whether your qualifications or work experience are relevant, contact us .

Please find a potential supervisor before applying. We're open for applicants to  contact academic staff  members about PhD projects. 

Please prepare and agree on a research proposal for the application and discuss the research area you're interested in. In the application, please indicate the supervisor's name.

Watch Prof Dario Landa-Silva's video on how to apply.

Points to cover when discussing your interest in applying for a PhD

• Motivation for doing a PhD
• Your academic record and research experience
• Sources of funding
• Research topic

Our step-by-step guide contains everything you need to know about applying for postgraduate research.

Additional information for international students

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) .

These fees are for full-time study. If you are studying part-time, you will be charged a proportion of this fee each year (subject to inflation).

Additional costs

All students will need at least one device to approve security access requests via Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). We also recommend students have a suitable laptop to work both on and off-campus. For more information, please check the equipment advice .

The school offers free printing and each student will be given their own workspace including a laptop computer.

There are some extra costs that you need to be aware of:

• £25 deposit for a building key
• £160 thesis pending fee (current price at time of publication but it can increase each year)
• Late submission fee for each month or part of the month that passes between the expected submission date and the date that the thesis is actually submitted

UK applicants

We offer a number of projects each year which are funded by:

• the school and university
• industry partners
• centres of doctoral training (CDTs)
• doctoral training partnerships (DTPs)

Some of the funded projects the school offers are posted on the  studentship jobs website .

These are the current CDTs at Nottingham that have projects related to computer science:

• EPSRC Atoms to Products (A2P) Centre for Doctoral Training in Sustainable Chemistry
• Faculty of Science Doctoral Training Centre in Artificial Intelligence
• Horizon – My Life in Data  

There are many ways to fund your research degree, from scholarships to government loans.

Check our guide to find out more about funding your postgraduate degree.

You'll meet with your supervisor at least 10 times per year. Most of our students have 15-20 meetings per year. 

Our research groups hold regular seminars which PhD students can attend.

We do our best to support students to attend conferences when they have papers to present.     

Hear more about what life is like in the school from current PhD students.  

In the 2019 Postgraduate Research Experience Survey , the School of Computer Science was ranked highly in:

• progress and assessment
• responsibilities
• research skills 

Researcher training and development

The Researcher Academy is the network for researchers, and staff who support them. We work together to promote a healthy research culture, to cultivate researcher excellence, and develop creative partnerships that enable researchers to flourish.

Postgraduate researchers at Nottingham have access to our online Members’ area, which includes a wealth of resources, access to training courses and award-winning postgraduate placements.

Student support

You will have access to a range of support services , including:

• academic and disability support
• childcare services
• counselling service
• faith support
• financial support
• mental health and wellbeing support
• visa and immigration advice
• welfare support

Students' Union

Our Students' Union represents all students. You can join the Postgraduate Students’ Network or contact the dedicated Postgraduate Officer .

There are also a range of support networks, including groups for:

• international students
• black and minority ethnic students
• students who identify as women
• students with disabilities
• LGBT+ students

SU Advice provides free, independent and confidential advice on issues such as accommodation, financial and academic difficulties.

Where you will learn

School of computer science pgr.

You'll get your own desk and computer equipment in a office usually shared with other PhD students from your research group. 

We have 24-hour computer labs with PCs, Macs and Linux workstations. Other facilities include GPU, a mixed reality lab, a cyber security lab and a robotics lab.

Jubilee Campus

Jubilee Campus has eco-friendly buildings, alongside green spaces, wildlife and a lake. 

This campus is home to our business, education and computer science schools, as well as a sports centre and student accommodation.

You can walk to  University Park Campus  in around 20 minutes or catch a free hopper bus. Nottingham city centre is 20 minutes away by public bus.

Whether you are considering a career in academia, industry or haven't yet decided, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Expert staff will work with you to explore PhD career options and apply for vacancies, develop your interview skills and meet employers. You can book a one-to-one appointment, take an online course or attend a workshop.

International students who complete an eligible degree programme in the UK on a student visa can apply to stay and work in the UK after their course under the Graduate immigration route . Eligible courses at the University of Nottingham include bachelors, masters and research degrees, and PGCE courses.

Many PhD graduates choose to continue an academic career. You may start with a postdoctoral position or a teaching fellowship. 

However, there is a need for PhD graduates in industry too. Graduates typically work in:

• manufacturing

Your expertise would be used to build specialised computing techniques. 

100% of postgraduates from the School of Computer Science secured graduate level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average annual salary for these graduates was £36,160.*

*HESA Graduate Outcomes 2019/20 data published in 2022 . The Graduate Outcomes % is derived using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on data from graduates who completed a full-time postgraduate degree with home fee status and are working full-time within the UK.

Related courses

Human computer interaction msc, electronic communications and computer engineering msc, financial and computational mathematics msc, physics phd/mres, computer science or computer science (artificial intelligence) msc, computer science or computer science (artificial intelligence) (2-year) msc, research excellence framework.

The University of Nottingham is ranked 7th in the UK for research power, according to analysis by Times Higher Education. The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a national assessment of the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.

• We're ranked in the top 10 for research power out of all computer science departments in the UK
• All of our school research impact activities were classified as being world-leading or internationally excellent
• We're ranked 2nd in computer science in the UK for our research environment
• 90%* of our research is classed as 'world-leading' (4*) or 'internationally excellent' (3*)
• 100%* of our research is recognised internationally
• 51% of our research is assessed as 'world-leading' (4*) for its impact**

*According to analysis by Times Higher Education ** According to our own analysis.

This content was last updated on 27 July 2023 . Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.

Computer Science Research PhD

Key information.

The Department of Informatics has an extensive research profile, with major externally funded projects, a strong publication profile and significant research activity.

Our research is organised around our research groups, and you can find details of the range of current research projects and interests on the Department's research pages .

If you are interested in joining us to undertake PhD research, you should identify topics and academic staff in your area of interest. If you cannot find your chosen topic or area on our individual research section or subgroup pages, contact a relevant member of academic staff for further information and then follow the application procedure.

Current number of academic staff: 79

Current number of research staff: 37

Head of department: Professor Luc Moreau

Course intake: Approximately 25-30 per year

Research income

Currently, the Department attracts approximately £4m in research funding annually.

Recent publications

All academics in the Department publish regularly, with well over 100 publications per year.

Partner organisations

We have strong links with industry, government and other academic institutions. Our research has been supported by several companies from the aerospace, automotive, financial, IT and telecommunications sectors.

Recent events

We host several workshops and conferences and other regular research meetings. Please check our website for forthcoming events.

• How to apply
• Fees or Funding

For funding opportunities please explore these pages:

• List of funding opportunities
• External funding opportunities for International students
• King’s-China Scholarship Council PhD Scholarship programme (K-CSC)

UK Tuition Fees 2023/24

Full time tuition fees: £6,540 per year

Part time tuition fees: £3,270 per year

International Tuition Fees 2023/24

Full time tuition fees: £28,260 per year

Part time tuition fees: £14,130 per year

UK Tuition Fees 2024/25

Full time tuition fees: £6,936 per year

Part time tuition fees: £3,468 per year

International Tuition Fees 2024/25

Full time tuition fees: £30,240 per year

Part time tuition fees: £15,120 per year

These tuition fees may be subject to additional increases in subsequent years of study, in line with King's terms and conditions.

• Study environment

We are a department with many internationally recognised researchers and visiting academics, large groups of PhD students, research assistants, national and international projects, collaborations with other departments as well as links with industry. We offer an exciting environment and excellent opportunities for research.

Our PhD students have access to good library facilities, designated PhD offices within the Department where PhD students can dock an assigned laptop for use throughout their studies, Regular group seminars are organised providing PhD students chance to showcase their research and receive feedback from academic staff and peers, and college-based training in transferable and research skills.

The Department is located on the Strand Campus, in the heart of central London, close to the cultural activities of the West End and the South Bank, to the major departments of state at Whitehall, and to the leading financial institutions of the City, and within easy reach of major transport links. Our facilities are within easy reach of the British Computer Society and the Institute of Engineering & Technology (and the IET Library), with access to a formidable collection of scientific journals and other technical material.

The Department moved to the historic Bush House in the summer of 2017, featuring state-of-the-art teaching and office spaces. Although the Department is fairly large in size, there is a friendly and inclusive culture, with regular social and celebratory events to bring staff and students together. Our staff and students come from all over the world, which provides a rich environment for teaching and research. Diversity is positively encouraged - find out more about the work we’re doing to ensure an inclusive and supportive working environment.

The scope of our research is defined by the interests of our research groups.

Postgraduate training

Faculty and College induction courses are scheduled at the beginning of your degree to prepare you for life as a PhD student. All students are required to complete 10 days of training each year. There is a centrally provided programme of related and transferable skills training coordinated by the Centre for Doctoral Studies .

Research students are also encouraged to submit papers to conferences, and we try to provide financial support for them to travel to present their papers.

Our research students are also encouraged to teach alongside their studies to help prepare them for a potential future career in academia.

• Entry requirements
• Research groups

Algorithms and Data Analysis

The group develops algorithmic solutions and concrete implementations for various applications.

Cybersecurity

The group studies design, modelling, analysis, verification and testing of networks and systems.

Distributed Artificial Intelligence

The group explores the use of AI in social and economic contexts where an intelligent entity may be interacting with other entities.

Human Centred Computing Research

The group is concerned with the design, development and evaluation of human computer systems.

Reasoning and Planning

The group focuses on the fundamental AI challenge of creating, representing and reasoning.

Software Systems

The group studies design, modelling and engineering of software systems.

Centre for Doctoral Studies

NMES Graduate School

A supportive and engaging environment for PhD students

Funding & Scholarships for PhD students

The Centre for Doctoral Studies helps secure funding for students...

NMES Graduate School: Virtual Open Event Session One

The NMES Graduate School Virtual Open Events for prospective postgraduate...

NMES Graduate School: Virtual Open Event Session Two

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Fully-funded PhD Studentships in Computer Science

Up to 20 fully funded PhD studentships in all research areas in Computer Science.

Application deadline

Funding source, funding information.

• UKRI stipend (£16,062 from October 2022) plus £3,000 per annum for full-time students; 50% of these amounts for part-time students.
• Tuition fees are also covered.
• £3,000, total, to support conference attendance and other relevant costs.  

The Department of Computer Science at the University of Surrey is offering up to 20 fully funded PhD studentships (at UK rates) to strengthen its research. Studentships are available for the duration of 3.5 years (or 7 years at 50% time) in all areas of its research portfolio, which includes in cybersecurity and cryptography, distributed and concurrent systems, artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Successful applicants will become part of a vibrant PhD community and will benefit from the strong research environment and high international visibility of the Department. 

You may also be interested in our specific funded PhD projects in computer science .

Eligibility criteria

Open to UK nationals, those with EU settled or pre-settled status, or indefinite leave to remain

We expect successful applicants to hold a BSc degree (with at least UK 2:1 honours, or equivalent) or an MSc degree with distinction in Computer Science or a related discipline.

The standard English language requirement is for a score of 6.5 or above (or equivalent) with 6.0 in each individual category, in an IELTLS Academic test taken in the last 2 years. Equivalent qualifications are listed on our language requirements page .

How to apply

Applications should be made via the Computer Science PhD programme page on the “Apply” tab.

You would need to identify an appropriate area of research, and preferably identify one or more potential supervisors and provide a brief research proposal to assist in matching with supervisors. For research areas, visit the Computer Science PhD programme page .

Applications will be assessed on an ongoing basis until all studentships have been allocated. We recommend you apply early.

To apply please upload your CV, copies of all degree certificates and transcripts, and the contact details of two referees (ideally, arrange for their letters of recommendation to be added to your application), and provide a covering letter identifying research area and preferably also potential supervisors and a brief research proposal.

Interviews will be conducted remotely over Zoom or Teams.

Studentship FAQs

Read our  studentship FAQs  to find out more about applying and funding.

22 July 2022

Contact details

Applicants are welcome to approach potential supervisors using contact details from the Department website to seek more information in advance of applying.

Studentships at Surrey

We have a wide range of studentship opportunities available.