Northwestern University

Computer Science Department

Legacy Site

Graduate Curriculum

For information on graduate studies at Northwestern University, please consult the Graduate School's website.

Masters Degree Requirements

Our masters program is a small, focused degree program intended for students who have already developed a close working relationship with one of our faculty members. Applications will only be considered for students who have also submitted a written invitation to apply from a faculty member in the department.

Coursework: 12 units
    9 units - departmental courses (300 level or higher, with at least 3 at 400 or 500 level)
    3 units - 590 research
Thesis/Projects: Independent research leading to master's thesis or project under direction of faculty
    advisor(s), with written project summary
Examinations: Oral exam on thesis/project

Ph.D. Degree Requirements

Our doctoral program is a larger degree program to which all interested students are encouraged to apply.

Coursework: Nine courses beyond Masters requirements (at least three at 400 or 500 level)
Examinations: Qualifying exam; oral dissertation proposal
Research/Projects: Independent research leading to dissertation
Ph.D. dissertation: Based on independent research
Final evaluations: Oral defense of the dissertation

Ph.D. Resources

Download a timeline for finishing your Ph.D. degree, based solely on Graduate School and CS Department requirements.
View notes on the Ph.D. timeline.

info@eecs.northwestern.edu
2133 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL 60208
Tel: 847-491-3500 | Fax: 847-491-5258