Earn a PhD from University of Fairfax
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:
PhD in Computer Science & Engineering Required Courses
Core Courses
DC7350: Advanced Research Methods in Computer Science & Engineering
DC7450: Advanced Research Methods in Communications Networks
DC7700: Advanced Qualitative Methods in Computer Science Engineering
DC7800: Advanced Quantitative Methods in Computer Science Engineering
DC9200: Designing Solutions to Computer Science & Engineering Problems
DS7000: Database Management & Implementation
DS7100: Advanced Operating Systems
DS7200: Software Engineering & Development
DS7600: Big Data & Analytical Research Methods for Software Developers
RM8500: Research Foundations
Program Electives (Select 3)
DC7550: Advanced Research Methods in Parallel & Distributed Database Systems
DC7650: Advanced Research Methods in Very Large-Scale Integration Design
DS7300: Software Architecture & Design
DS7500: Problem Solving & Programming for the Research Practitioner
Ds9200: Designing Solutions to Software Development Problems
IA7401: Ethical Hacking (CEH)
IA8021: Cloud Cybersecurity
IA8030: Design, Development, and Evaluation of Security Controls
IA8060: Intrusion Detection, Attacks, and Countermeasures
IA8070: Design & Development of Security Architectures
IA8110: Certification and Accreditation
IA8190: Forensic Evaluation and Incident Response Management
IA9150: Strategic & Technological Trends in Information Security
IA9200: Research Topics in Information Security
RM9100: Qualitative & Quantitative Analysis
RM9200: Designing Solutions to Information Security Problems
Free Electives (Select 3)
7000-Level Elective
8000-Level Elective
9000-Level Elective
Comprehensive Examination
DST9500: Comprehensive and Qualifying Exam
Dissertation Courses
RES8110: Dissertation Initiation
RES8120: Dissertation Literature Review I
RES8121: Dissertation Literature Review II
RES8130: Dissertation Research, IRB, and Analysis
DST8110: Dissertation Results and Findings
DST8130X: Dissertation Manuscript Certification
Minimum credits required for PhD Computer Science & Engineering: 621
1Credit hours may exceed the minimum stated if dissertation deliverables are not completed within the expected timeframes.
University of Fairfax incorporates
into the PhD in Computer Science & Engineering curriculum.
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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.
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.