Computer Science (Ph.D.)
Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)
Degree: Doctor of Philosophy
Program Description
The Ph.D. in Computer Science offers training in advanced research in a wide range of areas relevant to computer science under close supervision of research faculty.
Note: For information about Fall 2025 and Winter 2026 course offerings, please check back on May 8, 2025. Until then, the "Terms offered" field will appear blank for most courses while the class schedule is being finalized.
Thesis
A thesis for the doctoral degree must constitute original scholarship and must be a distinct contribution to knowledge. It must show familiarity with previous work in the field and must demonstrate ability to plan and carry out research, organize results, and defend the approach and conclusions in a scholarly manner. The research presented must meet current standards of the discipline; as well, the thesis must clearly demonstrate how the research advances knowledge in the field. Finally, the thesis must be written in compliance with norms for academic and scholarly expression and for publication in the public domain.
Required Courses (4 credits)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| COMP 604 | Graduate School Fundamentals . | 1 |
Graduate School Fundamentals . Terms offered: this course is not currently offered. Introduction to fundamental skills in computer science. Research and communication skills; teamwork in a research group; integrity, diversity and ethics; career paths. | ||
| COMP 700 | Ph.D. Comprehensive Examination. | 0 |
Ph.D. Comprehensive Examination. Terms offered: this course is not currently offered. An examination that must be passed by all doctoral candidates in order to continue in the doctoral program. | ||
| COMP 701 | Thesis Proposal and Area Examination. | 3 |
Thesis Proposal and Area Examination. Terms offered: Summer 2025 Submission of doctorate thesis proposal and examination that assesses the student's breadth of knowledge in the research area. | ||
Complementary Courses (6-32 credits)
32 credits of graduate-level courses, excluding COMP 604, COMP 700, and COMP 701. Students with a master’s degree in Computer Science or a related field are eligible for a course reduction by counting courses taken during their master’s degree. Students must take a minimum of 6 credits of complementary courses at the graduate level from McGill after the course reduction. Course choice must be approved by the supervisor (or co-supervisor).