PhD in Computer Science and Engineering

A Program for Professionals, Taught by Professionals

The PhD in Computer Science and Engineering is a research-oriented degree designed to add and contribute knowledge in computer science and engineering. The courses and correlative course outcomes in the core of this program are designed with a high degree of measurement. Several core courses require organization, quantitative and qualitative analyses, data syntheses, and results in dissemination. The University of Fairfax has a long-established track record in offering distance-oriented Doctoral programs, and most of the faculty in this program possess a PhD from distance programs. They can thus provide the first-hand experience to this program.

Program Format

The sequential part of the PhD program (accommodating the qualifying / comprehensive exam, development of the dissertation concept paper, feasibility paper, and more) is divided into five phases, most of which have steps within each phase. These steps continue to measure attainment of research skills as the student slowly and methodically progresses through a lengthy series of “gates” and ultimately to the final defense.

• Phase 1: Identifying a Dissertation Topic
• Phase 2: Achieving Candidacy
• Phase 3: Conducting the Research
• Phase 4: Obtaining Dissertation Approval
• Phase 5: Publishing the Dissertation

In implementing a phased approach (sequential) to satisfying the dissertation itself, this program is much more supportive of getting students through the program. All activities in this part of the program are measurable and attainable via distance learning.

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of this degree program, graduates will be able to:

• Recommend the appropriate algorithms, programming languages, and architecture for a given problem.
• Formulate solutions with fundamental knowledge in several specialized areas of research and expertise.
• Develop independent and innovative solutions through research by applying reasoning, problem solving, and technical skills with minimal guidance.
• Prepare concepts and results for a technical audience in the form of conference papers, journal papers, and/or oral presentations.
• Develop qualitative and/or quantitative research to analyze critical technical issues.

Credit Requirements

The PhD in Computer Science degree program consists of 62 semester credits beyond a master’s degree.

Course Descriptions

Core Courses:

University of Fairfax incorporates

into the PhD in Computer Science & Engineering curriculum.

Visit our eLearning page for more details on AWS Academy and our innovative course delivery methods.

Potential Careers for PhD in Computer Science and Engineering Graduates:

When you graduate with a PhD in Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Fairfax, you will be prepared for many exciting careers in this growing industry.

Whether you want to work as a Computer and Information Research Scientist at a major enterprise or teach at a university level, we will help you develop the skills to succeed in your chosen career.

Transfer Credits

A maximum of nine semester credits equivalent to our courses in content, credit and level and taken for graduate credit, as part of a degree or graduate certificate program, from an accredited institution may be transferred.

Accreditation Note

The PhD in Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Fairfax is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The University of Fairfax is one of a small group of accredited institutions requested by DEAC to participate in a pilot demonstration to the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) that DEAC’s scope of accreditation should include recognition by USDOE of the PhD program level.