Computer Science, Ph.D.

Ph.D. students conduct research in a mentorship-driven environment, working closely with faculty to explore new ideas and address complex computing problems. As a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Research (CAE-R), Florida Tech provides unique opportunities for advanced cybersecurity research including secure computing, cyber defense, identity assurance and trustworthy systems.

Research advances intelligent systems, secure computing, data-driven discovery and software innovation, preparing students to contribute practical, high-impact solutions. Student work spans both established and emerging areas, including machine learning, cybersecurity, distributed systems, natural language processing and high-performance computing.

Recent projects include robust intelligent systems, anomaly detection in complex data, efficient algorithms for large-scale computing and applications of computer vision in healthcare, automation and scientific research.

Florida Tech’s computer science faculty bring extensive practical experience and active research programs to their work with Ph.D. students.

Faculty expertise spans artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity and data science, supporting research in intelligent and secure computing systems.

Ph.D. students work closely with faculty on ongoing research, gaining mentorship, hands-on experience and professional perspective that prepare them for research leadership in academia or industry.

Prospective students are encouraged to review faculty profiles and contact the department to discuss research interests, potential collaborations and doctoral study pathways.

Florida Tech’s 130-acre campus on the Space Coast situates Ph.D. students near NASA-Kennedy Space Center and a vibrant high-tech workforce. This provides opportunities for research collaborations, internships and applied projects in computing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data analytics and software systems.

Students engage directly with industry and government research initiatives, gaining experience that informs their doctoral research and prepares them for leadership in academia, industry or government research labs.

Academic units at Florida Tech may offer graduate student assistantships to full-time, degree-seeking graduate students on a competitive basis.

Teaching Assistants (TAs) support faculty in teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, including tasks such as grading, tutoring and conducting office hours. First-time TAs attend a teaching assistant seminar to prepare for their responsibilities.

Research Assistants (RAs) collaborate with faculty on projects funded by government agencies, private sponsors and university research funds.

For information about assistantships, please contact the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.

Florida Tech offers a safe and welcoming campus environment that supports advanced research alongside personal well-being. The campus includes extensive green spaces, such as the Joy and Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden, along with facilities like the Holzer Health Center and Clemente Center for health, fitness and stress management.

Located minutes from the Indian River Lagoon and 72 miles of Atlantic beaches, the university combines access to outdoor recreation with proximity to industry and government organizations that contribute to research collaboration and career development.

Graduate students from around the world come together at Florida Tech in a campus community that fosters international collaboration and innovation. This environment encourages students to work across cultures and perspectives, preparing them for research and professional settings around the globe.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) supports international students throughout their academic journey, providing guidance on immigration matters, serving as a liaison with sponsoring agencies and foreign governments, and sharing information about campus and community resources.

The Ph.D. program in computer science welcomes applicants with strong potential for advanced research and the ability to contribute new knowledge to the field.

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a master’s degree in computer science or a related field from an accredited institution.

For more information, please see our graduate admission requirements.