PhD in Computer Science

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

Programme Structure

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 research workshops and research seminars

Upgrade to PhD Status

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.

Teaching Contributions

All research students are strongly encouraged to contribute to teaching in the department, for which some training will be provided. Research students will submit a log of teaching activities annually at the end of June.

Completion of Research

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.

Part-time Study

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.

Key Information

• Duration: 3-4 years full-time, 5-7 years part-time
• Study Mode: Research
• Degree: Doctor of Philosophy
• Department: Department of Computer Science and Technology

Dates and Deadlines

The following are the key dates and deadlines for the programme:

• Lent 2026 (Closed)
  • Applications open: September 4, 2024
  • Application deadline: October 2, 2025
  • Course starts: January 5, 2026
• Michaelmas 2026
  • Applications open: September 3, 2025
  • Application deadline: May 14, 2026
  • Course starts: October 1, 2026
• Lent 2027
  • Applications open: September 3, 2025
  • Application deadline: October 1, 2026
  • Course starts: January 5, 2027
• Funding deadlines:
  • Course funding deadline: December 3, 2025
  • Gates Cambridge US round only: October 15, 2025

Similar Courses

Some similar courses offered by the university include:

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

University of Cambridge

---

Overview:

The University of Cambridge is a prestigious public research university located in Cambridge, England. It is one of the world's leading academic institutions, known for its high-quality teaching and research. The university is comprised of 31 constituent colleges, each with its own unique character and traditions.

---

Services Offered:

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university offers a vibrant and diverse student experience. Students can expect to be part of a close-knit community within their chosen college, while also having access to the wider university's resources and facilities. The university boasts a rich history and tradition, with numerous historic buildings and gardens. Students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, societies, and cultural events.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Academic Excellence:

Cambridge is renowned for its world-class academics and research.

Prestigious Reputation:

A degree from Cambridge is highly valued globally, opening doors to various career opportunities.

Unique College System:

The college system provides a supportive and intimate learning environment, fostering close relationships between students and tutors.

Exceptional Facilities:

The university offers state-of-the-art facilities, including libraries, laboratories, and museums.

Vibrant Campus Life:

Cambridge offers a rich and diverse student experience, with numerous opportunities for extracurricular activities and social engagement.

---

Academic Programs:

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Arts and Humanities:

History, English Literature, Classics, Philosophy, Theology, Music, Art History, and more.

Social Sciences:

Economics, Politics, Sociology, Anthropology, Psychology, and more.

Sciences:

Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, and more.

Medicine:

Clinical Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, and more.

---

Other: