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Computer Science PhD

Most students complete this programme in 4 years full-time

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A research degree in Computer Science will equip you with skills you can use to develop new products and systems in areas where computers play an integral role.

Our research is strongly interdisciplinary and combines practical applications with a sound theoretical understanding. Our main research interests include but are not limited to:

Candidates are encouraged to have a look our research groups directly to discuss project and funding opportunities.

Department of Computer Science

Programme structure

Most students complete this programme in 4 years. You cannot take less than 2 years to finish your research and the maximum time you are allowed is normally 4 years.

You may start this programme at any time. Most students start in September.

Occasionally we make changes to our programmes in response to, for example, feedback from students, developments in research and the field of studies, and the requirements of accrediting bodies. You will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.

Your academic progress and general welfare will be monitored by your supervisor.

Academic milestones

  1. Registration
  2. Induction
  3. Candidature
  4. Confirmation
  5. Research
  6. Writing up
  7. Give notice of intention to submit a thesis / portfolio
  8. Submission for examination
  9. Examination (Viva Voce)
  10. Examiners report
  11. Final submission of thesis / portfolio
  12. Graduation

Programme content

Learning

  • Doctoral skills online
  • Doctoral skills workshop
  • Research project
  • Supervisory team

Research content

We are one of the most research active computer science departments in the UK (see the latest UK Research Excellence Framework results) and we will support you to become a leading expert in academia or industry.

You will be supervised individually by academics who are at the forefront of computer science and offered specialised research training courses. You will also have the opportunity to collaborate with academic and industrial partners in and outside the UK.

Professional Development

Professional development is a crucial element of doctoral study, not only in supporting your research but also as part of your longer term career development. Our DoctoralSkills workshops and courses will help you build your skills and help you succeed in your doctorate.

Read more about professional development support

Assessment

Assessment methods

  • Thesis
  • Viva Voce

Assessment description

Most research students who ‘do a PhD’ register in the first instance as probationer for the degree of PhD. Candidates are expected to carry out supervised research at the leading edge of their chosen subject, which must then be written up as a substantial thesis.

The confirmation of the PhD programme (and the end of the probationary period) is subject to students passing an assessment process, which normally involves submission of written work and on oral examination which usually takes place 12 months after the initial registration.

The final stage of the PhD degree is the oral or viva voce examination, in which students are required to defend the thesis to a Board of Examiners.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

We normally require a student to have a first or upper second-class honours degree, or equivalent qualifications in a relevant subject.

English Language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
  • The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
  • TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

You will need to get your English language qualification within 24 months prior to starting your course.

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

References

Two references are required. At least one of these should be an academic reference from the most recent place of study.

Fees and funding

Fees and funding information for Computer Science PhD

Fees

Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on whether you are a Home, Island or Overseas student.

Learn how we decide fee status

These fees are for the academic years stated only. Tuition fees are liable to increase annually for all University of Bath students.

Home students

Tuition fee for the academic year 2022/23

£4,600

Overseas students

Tuition fee for the academic year 2022/23

£25,400

Legal information

You should budget for an increase of up to 5% each year for every further year of study; we will not increase your fees each year by more than this percentage and the amount will be set out on our fee page in December for the following academic year.

If you aren't paying your fees in British pounds, you should also budget for possible fluctuations in your own currency.

How to pay

Funding options

Find funding for doctoral students

Payment options

You can pay your tuition fees by Direct Debit, debit card, credit card or bank transfer.

Paying your tuition fees

Application information

  • Programme title
    Computer Science PhD
  • Final award
    PhD
  • Mode of study
    Full-time
  • Course code
    RSCM-AFM02
  • Department
  • Location
    University of Bath
    Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY
  • Application deadline

    3 months prior to the intended start date (for International applicants) or 2 months prior to the intended start date (for Home applicants). For example, for an end of September start, the deadline is 30 June (International) and 31 July (Home)

  • Regulator

Applicant profile

See our guide about how to apply for doctoral study

Immigration requirements

This PhD is covered by the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS). If you are an Overseas fee-paying student, you may require an ATAS certificate to join this course. More information about ATAS.

Find out more about the Student Immigration Service for matters related to student visas and immigration.

If you are an international student applying for this course, find out more about the visa requirements for studying in the UK.

Programme enquiries

Apply for this programme

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