Program Overview
The PhD in Computer Science & Information Technology is a research-focused doctoral program emphasizing original scholarship in cybersecurity, information systems, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies. Students conduct rigorous research contributing new knowledge to the IT field, developing expertise in research methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and advanced technical domains. Graduates are prepared for academic appointments, advanced research positions, and executive technology leadership requiring doctoral-level expertise and research capabilities.
To cultivate IT scholars who advance knowledge in Computer Science & Information Technology through rigorous research, theoretical development, and empirical investigation, contributing to academic literature and practical applications that address complex technology challenges.
- Total Credit Hours: 60 (post-master’s)
- Advanced Coursework: 24 credit hours
- Research Methods: 12 credit hours
- Dissertation: 24 credit hours
- Delivery: 100% Online with research mentorship
- Duration: 24-36 months
- Format: Research seminars and independent study
Program Educational Objectives
Within 3-5 years of graduation, PhD IT graduates will:
- Conduct independent research in Computer Science & information technology domains
- Publish scholarly work in peer-reviewed journals and conferences
- Teach IT courses at universities and colleges
- Lead advanced technology research initiatives
- Develop theoretical frameworks and research methodologies in IT
- Hold leadership positions in academic or research institutions
- Provide expert consultation on complex technology issues
Program Curriculum
Course Code | Course Title | Credit Hours |
Advanced Coursework (24 Credit Hours) | ||
PhD 801 | Information Systems Theory | 3 |
PhD 810 | Advanced Cybersecurity Research | 3 |
PhD 820 | Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | 3 |
PhD 830 | Advanced Network Theory | 3 |
PhD 840 | Cloud and Distributed Computing | 3 |
PhD 850 | IT Innovation and Emerging Technologies | 3 |
PhD 860 | Data Science and Big Data Analytics | 3 |
PhD 870 | Advanced Seminar in IT Research | 3 |
Research Methods Courses (12 Credit Hours) | ||
RES 901 | Philosophy of IT Research | 3 |
RES 910 | Quantitative Research Methods | 3 |
RES 920 | Qualitative Research Methods | 3 |
RES 930 | Advanced Statistical Analysis | 3 |
Dissertation (24 Credit Hours) | ||
DIS 950 | Dissertation Proposal Development | 6 |
DIS 960 | Dissertation Research I | 6 |
DIS 970 | Dissertation Research II | 6 |
DIS 980 | Dissertation Defense | 6 |