The PhD in Computer Science program combines coursework, a Comprehensive I (breadth) exam by which the candidate demonstrates a breadth of knowledge in a broad range of research areas in Computer Science, a Comprehensive II exam by which the candidate demonstrates a depth of knowledge in the chosen research area, and seminars, leading to a thesis.
Note: The School of Computer Science does not accept part-time students into the PhD program unless the applicant is currently an employee of the School.
PhD course requirements
The following is a brief outline of the PhD course requirements.
PhD from master's:
- 4 one-term graduate courses
- at least 3 of the courses must be above the 600-level
- a minimum of one 800-level course
- any required remedial courses
PhD from bachelor's
- 8 one-term graduate courses
- at least 5 of the courses must be above the 600-level
- a minimum of three 800-level courses
- any required remedial courses
Students are permitted to carry over any extra courses from their MMath program at Waterloo. Note the courses must be noted as extra on the transcript.
PhD comprehensive requirements
PhD Comprehensive-I (Breadth)
The PhD Comprehensive-I (Breadth) requirement ensures that a student has sufficient breadth of knowledge to undertake research at the PhD level. A student meets the requirement by taking a number of advanced courses in a broad range of categories and areas of Computer Science.
- The 6 courses used must all have a minimum mark of 78% (B+ or equivalent).
- Breadth courses must cover each of 3 broad categories in Computer Science (Computing Technology, Mathematics of Computing, and Applications). See Table 1.
- 6 of the 11 areas shown in Table 1 must be covered by breadth courses.
- Courses for the breadth requirement can include 4th year (400+ level) advanced undergraduate courses, courses taken at master's level and completed or proposed courses at doctoral level.
Table 1: Categories and Areas for Breadth Requirement
PhD Comprehensive-II (Depth)
As of Fall 2019, new University regulations regarding comprehensive exams will come into effect. Graduate students within the Faculty of Mathematics should familiarize themselves with these regulations. In particular, based on these new regulations students are expected to complete their Comprehensive exam by the end of Term 7.
Additional information about Comprehensive exams can be found here.
- an oral exam normally taken within 7 terms of entering the PhD program which tests the student's preparedness to pursue thesis research
- requires an oral presentation of a Research Proposal (not a Thesis Proposal) together with questioning by the Advisory Committee made up of the supervisor (and co-supervisor) and 2 additional faculty members from the School of Computer Science
- the candidate must convince the committee that the chosen research area is suitable and demonstrate an appropriate breadth of knowledge in the chosen area
- the committee must determine if there is a thesis topic in the area and whether the candidate is capable of completing such a thesis
PhD seminar requirement
- requires the presentation of 3 publicly-posted seminars (or lectures, possibly in 700 level courses) in the School of Computer Science
- the purpose of this requirement is twofold: first, it ensures that each student participates in the academic life of the School and, second, it provides an opportunity for students to hone their presentational skills.
PhD Internship (if applicable):
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Students participating in the PhD Internship program are required to complete the Graduate WIL Reflective Report following their work term. Please refer to the Graduate WIL Reflective Report website for current requirements, submission instructions, and assessment information.
Please note:
- Students are required to complete at least 1 internship term.
How do I switch into the PhD internship program?
This program is designed for International students. Please reach out to your Graduate Coordinator if you are a domestic student wanting to complete an internship.
To begin the process please submit a Program Plan Change form and state you are changing your program to PhD Internship. Obtain the appropriate signatures from your supervisor and submit the form to your Graduate Coordinator for processing.
Then when you are about to go on a work term you would submit a Change of Enrollment form to your Coordinator and select full-time off campus.
PhD thesis
The PhD thesis oral examination culminates the candidate's research program. It exposes the candidate's work to scholarly criticism by members of the University, and gives the student the opportunity to defend it.
For regulations and guidelines see more details.
Have questions? Please visit our FAQ page.