Georgetown University

What you'll study

The PhD in Applied Computer Science combines rigorous coursework with sustained original research. Early stages of the programme focus on graduate-level courses to build depth in core areas and breadth across applied topics; later stages centre on research, dissertation work and professional development.

• Core and elective coursework — advanced algorithms, operating systems, distributed systems, machine learning, data management, programming language theory and software engineering, depending on the chosen research emphasis.
• Applied specialisations — typical applied tracks and research areas include machine learning and AI, natural language processing, computer vision, security and privacy, networking and distributed systems, human–computer interaction, health informatics and computational social science.
• Research rotations and labs — opportunities to join faculty research groups and participate in ongoing projects to refine research interests and build a publication record.
• Qualifying exams and dissertation — preparation for and completion of departmental qualifying/comprehensive examinations, followed by proposal, execution and defence of an original doctoral dissertation.
• Teaching and professional development — graduate teaching assignments, seminars on research presentation and publication, and workshops on grantwriting and career preparation.

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and typically requires strong academic preparation and evidence of research potential. Typical expectations include:

• Academic background — a relevant bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics or a closely related field. Many admitted students hold a master’s degree with substantial graduate coursework or research experience.
• Preparation — demonstrated competence in programming, data structures and algorithms, discrete mathematics, probability and statistics; prior research experience is strongly preferred.
• Application materials — an academic CV, statement of purpose explaining research interests, transcripts, and at least three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can attest to research potential.
• English language — for non-native English speakers, proof of English proficiency is required in accordance with university policy.
• Standardised tests — some applicants may submit GRE scores where provided, but applicants should consult the department for current test policies.

Career prospects

Graduates of Georgetown's PhD programme in Applied Computer Science pursue a range of research-intensive careers. Common paths include:

• Academia — faculty positions at universities and colleges, where graduates continue research and teach undergraduate and graduate courses.
• Industry research and development — roles in corporate research labs, startups and technology companies focusing on applied AI, systems engineering, security, data science and product research.
• Government and policy — technical research positions in national labs, government agencies and public-sector organisations, often intersecting with privacy, security and policy work.
• Interdisciplinary roles — opportunities in healthcare, finance, urban systems and other domains that require advanced computational expertise.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown offers a PhD environment that combines rigorous computer science training with the advantages of its location and institutional strengths. The department supports close faculty-student collaboration, interdisciplinary projects and access to a network that includes government agencies, think tanks and industry partners in the Washington, D.C. area.

Students benefit from active research groups across applied areas of computing, regular seminar series, and professional development resources provided by the university to prepare for academic and non-academic careers. The programme emphasises both foundational knowledge and practical impact, preparing graduates to contribute to scholarly literature and to translate research into real-world applications.