The PhD is the primary research degree that can be taken in the Department of Computer Science. The doctoral program in computer science provides students with a deep foundation in the fundamental principles and practice of computer science through coursework and research. The program also prepares students to conduct novel research that advances the state of the art in the field of computer science. Students conduct research projects under the direction of a faculty mentor, culminating in the defence of a doctoral dissertation.

Graduates of the program are expected to excel in research, teaching, and the practice of computer science.