AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION

ALL EDUCATION MAJORS-

The university distinguishes itself by being registered with the International Accreditation Organization, highlighting its dedication to offering excellent education and elevated standards.

It awards both professional and religious certificates through distance learning, holding official licensing for this endeavor. This provides students with the flexibility and convenience to enhance their growth and attain their academic aspirations.

In summary, the American International University stands as a pioneering institution in higher education.

It provides students with ample opportunities to pursue further education and specialization in their chosen fields, offering distinguished master’s and doctoral programs. This is facilitated through innovative teaching methods that effectively enhance and motivate distance learning.

The American International university is an equal opportunity educational institution open to all irrespective of any gender, sexual considerations, citizenship, States, race and class or educational level.

American International University is adhering all laws and legal concerns admitting all variables of local, national and international regulations.

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Furthermore the American International university is dedicated to promote integrity and respect in the area of education along with changing educational progress to assist the students to fit into the benefits of knowledge, research and wisdom.

Our Vision

To be a University of equal access for all academic, intellectual and professional development of humanity.

Our Mission

The mission of the American International University is to provide nationally competitive and internationally recognized opportunities for learning, discovery, and engagement to a diverse population of students in a real-world setting.

The university offers a comprehensive range of degree programs at the baccalaureate, master’s, doctoral, and professional levels, and it pursues a broad agenda of research and creative activities.

Serving as a knowledge resource to the public, the university establishes partnerships with other educational institutions, community organizations, government agencies, and the private sector to benefit the region and make a global impact.

Our commitment is to empower a diverse student body for academic, personal, and professional success through inclusive, student-centered support, and lifelong learning.

About The University

The American International university empowers students in their pursuit of learning, discovery, leadership and engagement. The American International university is primarily serving the students around the globe providing education on general studies with commitment to education and research.

AIUE providing education to students through distance and continuing modes thus affiliating with the prestigious Universities collaborating with those high-end academic courses leading to short term, under- graduate, Post-Graduate and Doctoral research programs through part time and full time means of learning.

The American International university is a group of ten public institutions of higher learning in USA that share common goals and are governed by a Board of Regents.

The American International university is an equal opportunity educational institution open to all irrespective of any gender, sexual considerations, citizenship, States, race and class or educational level. American International University is adhering all laws and legal concerns admitting all variables of local, national and international regulations.

Furthermore the American International university is dedicated to promote integrity and respect in the area of education along with changing educational progress to assist the students to fit into the benefits of knowledge, research and wisdom.

Courses

• Associate degrees

• Associate Degree in Administration of Justice
• Associate Degree in Advertising
• Associate Degree in Agribusiness
• Associate Degree in Animal Management
• Associate Degree in Architectural Building Engineering Technology
• Associate Degree in Architecture and Career Options
• Associate Degree in Art
• Associate Degree in Automotive Maintenance Technology
• Associate Degree in Aviation Mechanics
• Associate Degree in Behavioral Science
• Associate Degree in Boat Mechanics
• Associate Degree in Boat Repair and Maintenance
• Associate Degree in Cabinet Design Technology
• Associate Degree in Child Development: Program Summary
• Associate Degree in Christian Ministry
• Associate Degree in Cosmetology Business
• Associate Degree in Digital Media
• Associate Degree in Early Childhood Special Education
• Associate Degree in Elementary Education
• Associate Degree in English
• Associate Degree in Environmental Science
• Associate Degree in Environmental Studies
• Associate Degree in General Psychology
• Associate Degree in History and Information
• Associate Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies
• Associate Degree in International Relations
• Associate Degree in Landscape Architecture
• Associate Degree in Landscaping Design
• Associate Degree in Library Science
• Associate Degree in Music
• Associate Degree in Wildlife Management
• Associate Degree in Education
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Accelerated Culinary Arts
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Accounting Specialist
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Administrative Support
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Baking and Pastry
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Business Administration
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Business Administration – Finance
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Business Information Systems
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Civil Justice – Law Enforcement
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Clinical Medical Assisting
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Computer Applications
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Computer Electronics
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Computer Game Design
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Computer Information Systems
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Culinary Arts
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Digital Media Communications
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Digital Photography
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Electronic Engineering
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Emergency Medical Services
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Health Care Management
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Health Information Management
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Healthcare Administration
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Legal Office E-ministration
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Telecommunications Technology
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Television Production
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Visual Communications
• Associate of Arts (AA) in Computer Information Systems
• Associate of Arts (AA) in Internetworking Technology
• Associate of Arts (AA) in Psychology
• Associate of Arts (AA) in Interior Architecture and Design
• Associate of Biotechnology
• Associate of Business Science (ABS) in Individualized Studies
• Associate of Early Childhood Education (AECE)
• Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) in Legal Office Administration
• Associate of Science (AS) in Computer Information Science
• Associate of Science (AS) in Computer Science
• Associate of Science (AS) in Corrections, Probation, & Parole
• Associate of Science (AS) in Electronics Engineering Technology
• Associate of Science (AS) in Interactive & Graphic Art
• Associate of Science (AS) in Industrial Maintenance Technology
• Associate of Arts and science

AbouBachelor Degrees

• Bachelor degrees

• Bachelor of Science in Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
• Bachelor of Architecture
• Bachelor of Biomedical Science
• Bachelor of Business Administration
• Bachelor of Clinical Science
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Computer Applications
• Bachelor of Community Health
• Bachelor of Computer Information Systems
• Bachelor of Science in Construction Technology
• Bachelor of Criminal Justice
• Bachelor of Divinity
• Bachelor of Economics
• Bachelor of Education
• Bachelor of Engineering
• Bachelor of Fine Arts
• Bachelor of Letters
• Bachelor of Information Systems
• Bachelor of Management
• Bachelor of Music
• Bachelor of Pharmacy
• Bachelor of Philosophy
• Bachelor of Social Work
• Bachelor of Technology
• Bachelor of Accountancy
• Bachelor of Arts in American Studies
• Bachelor of Arts in American Indian Studies
• Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology
• Bachelor of Arts in Biology
• Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology
• Bachelor of Arts in Child Advocacy
• Bachelor of Arts in Clinical Psychology
• Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology
• Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Psychology
• Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Actuarial
• Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
• Bachelor of Science in Architecture
• Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training
• Bachelor of Science in Biology
• Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Bible
• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
• Bachelor of Science in Business and Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science
• Bachelor of Science in Cognitive Science
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
• Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Construction Management
• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
• Bachelor of Science in Criminology
• Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Radiography
• Bachelor of Science in Education
• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics
• Bachelor of Science in Engineering Science
• Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology
• Bachelor of Science in English Literature
• Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science
• Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies
• Bachelor of Science in Food Science
• Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service
• Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science
• Bachelor of Science in Forestry
• Bachelor of Science in History
• Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management
• Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management
• Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Information Systems
• Bachelor of Science in Integrated Science
• Bachelor of Science in International Relations
• Bachelor of Science in Journalism
• Bachelor of Science in Legal Management
• Bachelor of Science in Management
• Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Marketing
• Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Metallurgical Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Meteorology
• Bachelor of Science in Microbiology
• Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology
• Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Bachelor of Science in Nutrition science
• Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Podiatry
• Bachelor of Science in Pharmacology
• Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy
• Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy
• Bachelor of Science in Physics
• Bachelor of Science in Plant Science
• Bachelor of Science in Politics
• Bachelor of Science in Psychology
• Bachelor of Science in Public Safety
• Bachelor of Science in Physiology
• Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation
• Bachelor of Science in Religion
• Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy
• Bachelor of Science in Risk Management and Insurance
• Bachelor of Science in Science Education
• Bachelor of Science in Sports Management
• Bachelor of Science in Systems Engineering
• Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies
• Bachelor of Music in Composition
• Bachelor of Music in Performance
• Bachelor of Music in Theory
• Bachelor of Music in Music Education
• Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology

Masters Degrees

Master’s Degree 

So, you’ve earned a bachelor’s degree? Now what? If going back to school sounds like a good idea you might want to consider earning a Master of Science (M.S.) or Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in graduate school!

What is a Master’s Degree?

A master’s degree is an advanced degree awarded by most colleges and universities. The master’s degree is a one to three-year full-time program, beyond the bachelor’s degree, that involves an in depth and focused study on a single discipline.

Program Requirements

A bachelor’s degree is usually a prerequisite for students entering a master’s degree program. Master’s degrees typically require one to three years of post-baccalaureate study towards the completion of about 30 credit hours. Many programs also require completion of a research report or thesis. Students must also maintain a minimum grade point average to earn their degree.

What are the Degree Options

Many students pursue master’s degrees as an extenson of their bachelor’s degrees, choosing a course of study that complements their degree focus. Other students choose a master’s degree program that is entirely different from their bachelor’s degree.

Two of the most commonly awarded degrees are the Master of Arts (M.A.), awarded in the humanities and social sciences, and the Master of Science (M.S.), awarded in mathematics, science and engineering. There are also several specialized or professional master’s degrees available, such as:

• Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.)
• Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.)
• Master of Education (M.Ed.)
• Master of Architecture (M.Arch.)
• Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)

Why Earn a Master’s Degree?

Students decide to pursue a master degree for a variety of reasons. For some, it is a passionate interest in their chosen discipline that drives them to learn more. Some professional or technical areas of study require a master’s degree for entry-level positions. Others earn a master’s as a prerequisite for earning a doctorate degree. Some students, especially those in a liberal arts discipline, choose to earn a master’s degree in a new field, such as business, to expand their employment opportunities. Many others hope to increase their income potential by entering the workforce with an advanced degree.

• Master of Accountancy
• Master of Accounting and Information Systems
• Master of Advanced Study
• Master of Applied Finance
• Master of Applied Mathematical Sciences
• Master of Applied Psychology
• Master of Applied Science
• Master of Architecture
• Master of Arts
• Master of Arts in Archives and Records Management
• Master of Arts in Bioethics
• Master of Arts in Liberal Studies
• Master of Arts in Museum Studies
• Master of Arts in Strategic Communication Management
• Master of Arts in Teaching
• Master of Athletic Training
• Master of Bioethics
• Master of Bioinformatics
• Master of Biotechnology
• Master of Business Administration
• Master of Business Administration Management of Technology
• Master of Business
• Master of Business Economics
• Master of Business Engineering
• Master of Business Informatics
• Master of Chemistry
• Master of City Planning
• Master of Commerce
• Master of Community Health
• Master of Computational Finance
• Master of Computer Applications
• Master of Computer Science
• Master of Communication
• Master of Counseling
• Master of Criminal Justice
• Master in Creative Technologies
• Master of Design
• Master of Divinity
• Master of Economics
• Master of Education
• Master of Educational Technology
• Master of Engineering
• Master of Engineering Management
• Master of Enterprise
• Master of European Law
• Master of Finance
• Master of Financial Economics
• Master of Financial Engineering
• Master of Financial Mathematics
• Master of Fine Arts
• Master of Geospatial Science & Technology
• Master of Health Administration
• Master of Health Science
• Master of Humanities
• Master of Industrial and Labor Relations
• Master of International Affairs
• Master of International Business
• Master of International Economics
• Master of International Public Policy
• Master of International Studies
• Master of Information
• Master of Information Management
• Master of Information Systems
• Master of Information System Management
• Master of Islamic Studies
• Master of IT
• Master of Jurisprudence
• Master of Laws
• Master of Studies in Law
• Master of Landscape Architecture
• Master of Letters
• Master of Liberal Arts
• Master of Library and Information Science
• Master of Management
• Master of Mass Communication and Journalism
• Master of Mathematical Finance
• Master of Mathematics
• Master of Mathematics and Computer Science
• Master of Mathematics and Philosophy
• Master of Medical Science
• Master of Medicine
• Master of Military Art and Science
• Master of Music
• Master of Network and Communications Management
• Master of Occupational Therapy
• Master of Pharmacy
• Master of Philosophy
• Master of Physician Assistant Studies
• Master of Physics
• Master of Political Science
• Master of Professional Studies
• Master of Psychology
• Master of Public Administration
• Master of Public Affairs
• Master of Public Diplomacy
• Master of Public Health
• Master of Public Management
• Master of Public Policy
• Master of Public Relations
• Master of Public Service
• Master of Quantitative Finance
• Master of Rabbinic Studies
• Master of Real Estate Development
• Master of Religious Education
• Master of Research
• Master of Sacred Music
• Master of Sacred Theology
• Master of Science
• Master of Science in Applied Cognition and Neuroscience
• Master of Science in Athletic Training
• Master of Science in Bioinformatics
• Master of Science in Business Analytics
• Master of Science in Clinical Epidemiology
• Master of Science in Computing Research
• Master of Science in Cyber Security
• Master of Science in Education
• Master of Science in Engineering
• Master of Science in Development Administration
• Master of Science in Finance
• Master of Science in Governance & Organizational Sciences
• Master of Science in Government Contracts
• Master of Science in Health Informatics
• Master of Science in Human Resource Development
• Master of Science in Information Assurance
• Master of Science in Information Systems
• Master of Science in Information Technology
• Master of Science in Leadership
• Master of Science in Management
• Master of Science in Nursing
• Master of Science in Project Management
• Master of Science in Quality Assurance
• Master of Science in Risk Management
• Master of Science in Supply Chain Management
• Master of Science in Teaching
• Master of Science in Taxation
• Master of Social Science
• Master of Social Work
• Master of Statistics
• Master of Strategic Studies
• Master of Studies
• Master of Surgery
• Master of Theological Studies
• Master of Technology
• Master of Theology
• Master of Urban Planning
• Master of Veterinary Science

• | |
• Doctoral degrees

• Doctor of Audiology
• Doctor of Aviation (Av.D.)
• Doctor of Business Administration
• Doctor of Canon Law
• Doctor of Chiropractic
• Doctor of Commerce
• Doctor of Community Health
• Doctor of Dental Surgery
• Doctor of Divinity
• Doctor of Education
• Doctor of Engineering
• Doctor of Fine Arts
• Doctor of Health Administration
• Doctor of Health Science
• Doctor of Juridical Science; Juris Doctor
• Doctor of Law; Legum Doctor
• Doctor of Liberal Studies
• Doctor of Management
• Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)
• Doctor of Ministry
• Doctor of Modern Languages
• Doctor of Musical Arts
• Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
• Doctor of Optometry
• Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
• Doctor of Pharmacy
• Doctor of Philosophy
• Doctor of Public Administration
• Doctor of Science
• Doctor of Theology
• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

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• Ph.D. in computer science

Ph.D. in computer science

Engineers in this field work with a variety of technology in virtually any type of industry. Engineers act as hands-on problem solvers, and specialize in areas such as product development, commercial and industrial equipment, scientific applications, computer software, computer networks, construction, and manufacturing. Many professionals work for telecommunications firms or engineering companies, or hold positions in the federal government.

Professionals holding doctoral degrees in computer science hold distinct advantages. For example, tenured professors must possess their Ph.D. Large companies often start those with Ph.D.s at higher-level positions immediately upon hiring, and it’s common for employers to reserve their top-ranking positions for doctoral degree holders only. Computer scientists with doctorates can start their own research-based companies, or teach at the undergraduate or graduate level. Many industry research labs require workers to hold doctorate degrees, as well, due to the advanced level of technical knowledge and skill required to oversee large projects and teams.

With the rising need for technical expertise, employers are increasingly including doctoral degrees in their minimum hiring requirements. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 15.3% jump in the number of jobs in CS requiring a doctorate degree by 2022.

THE BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS PROJECTS A 15.3% JUMP IN THE NUMBER OF JOBS IN CS REQUIRING A DOCTORATE DEGREE BY 2022.

An online Ph.D. in computer science proves a lucrative degree and allows for more independent, creative input into projects, along with more freedom to design products, implement change, and inspire students and employees. Employees with their doctorates tend to enjoy higher salaries and lower unemployment rates than those with lower-level degrees.

Earning a Ph.D. in computer science opens doors to high-level academic positions, and allows for more independent, design-based work.

OVERVIEW

A doctorate in computer science builds on prior knowledge, education, and experience in the field. The degree typically takes 4-5 years to complete, and involves independent study and research in a focused area of interest. Doctorate programs include coursework and research that culminate in a final dissertation.

To enter a Ph.D. program, you must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in the field, though a master’s degree is usually preferable. Doctorate applicants must also submit GRE scores and letters of recommendation.

Students who enter these programs generally want to enter highly specialized computer science fields or teach at the college level. They must demonstrate academic success in prior college programs, and a desire to learn more about a specific area of the industry through additional study and research.

• 4-5 Years
• 72-90

Computer science plays a role in virtually every field of industry. For this reason, Ph.D. programs are diverse, and many students pursue interdisciplinary degrees.

Students wishing to pursue a Ph.D. in computer science generally take 4-5 years to complete the degree, which usually requires 72-90 credits. Learners can devote their studies to general computer science or choose a specialty area, such as one of the following:

• Computer science
• Algorithms, combinatorics, and optimization
• Human-computer interaction
• Software engineering
• Computational biology
• Language and information technologies
• Machine learning

ONLINE PH.D. IN COMPUTER SCIENCE

Online options for computer science doctorates continue to grow. Considering the nature of the material, it’s no surprise computer science courses were among the first offered in an online format from prestigious institutions such as MIT and Stanford. Doctorate studies require independent work, which integrates well with the online learning format.

ADVANTAGE: INDIVIDUALIZED PACING

Online programs offer the advantage of working at your own pace. Because the research and dissertation process varies greatly by student, this format proves especially conducive for doctorate-level work.

ADVANTAGE: GROWING PRESTIGE OF ONLINE PROGRAMS

The Taulbee Survey estimates more than 1,834 graduates earned Ph.D.s in computer science in the 2016-17 academic year — more than ever before. This represents a 1.2% increase over the previous year. That said, the total number of doctoral degrees awarded in the 2016-17 academic year increased by 5.2% over the previous year.

Computer science courses represented some of the first offered online with the arrival of Massive Online Open Courses (MOOCs) and other open-access learning platforms, which became popular around 2012. Some of the nation’s most prestigious universities, including Stanford, MIT, and Harvard, pioneered the MOOC industry. These universities now offer singular courses in computer science, many of which are free, through Coursera and other open-source platforms.

SPECIALIZATION

Doctorate students should choose specialties they feel passionately about. Specialization options vary between doctoral programs, so prospective students should make sure their online program offers concentrations in their area of interest.

COURSES IN AN ONLINE PH.D. IN COMPUTER SCIENCE PROGRAM

Required major courses vary by school, depending on each institution’s resources and faculty. This makes each program unique. College and university faculty acquire specialty areas of study, and typically teach courses related to those topics. Required courses may also root in the school’s longstanding traditions, based on department history and resources. Common courses for doctoral programs in computer science may include:

• Fundamentals of Chemistry: In this introductory course, students acquire the basic problem-solving skills and foundational chemical knowledge to pursue more advanced training. Degree-seekers typically attend lab- and classroom-based sessions that explore atomic bonding, lab safety, lab research documentation skills, states of matter, acids and bases, and nuclear chemistry.
• Revolutionary Molecules: This history-based course helps students understand the trajectory of organic chemistry over time. Instructors typically focus on key topics such as moments of discovery in the chemistry, and their development and significance. Students also engage with hands-on experiments in basic lab settings. Most courses require a final paper, based on original historical and lab research, which demonstrates your mastery of the course material.
• Environmental Chemistry: This laboratory-focused course explores basic and advanced chemical concepts, including polarity, volatility, and solubility. Students spend most of the course considering new and historical case studies, which demonstrate how chemical behavior relates to the environment, pollutants, and toxicology. Degree-seekers develop the ability to predict environmental behaviors and chemical structures.
• Physical Biochemistry: This survey course examines the physical methods chemists use to investigate biological systems. Learners understand foundational theories that account for chemical behavior and properties of amino acids, peptides, proteins, pyrimidines, and nucleic acids. Students also employ kinetic, spectroscopic, and thermodynamic analytical perspectives.
• Nuclear Magnet Resonance: This combined lecture and laboratory course on the principles of fourier transform and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Learners examine magnetic fields, magnetization and rotating frames, pulse sequences, two-dimensional perspectives, and nuclear Overhauser enhancement. Chemistry students learn to apply lecture material to their lab work and original research papers.

CONCENTRATIONS OFFERED FOR AN ONLINE PH.D. IN COMPUTER SCIENCE

FORENSIC SCIENCE

This degree prepares students for work as forensic scientists through intense study in biology, chemistry, and physics. They often take classes in pharmacology, statistics, and computer modeling. Sometimes referred to as criminalists, many computer scientists with a concentration in forensic science work as crime investigators and evidence analysts, collecting DNA and other evidence for examination in a laboratory setting.

Careers this concentration prepares for: Detective, criminalist, analytical chemist, scientific laboratory technician

BIOCHEMISTRY

Students focus on the chemistry of living things, ecosystems, biomolecules, immunology, genetics, and enzymology. Learners take courses in laboratory and classroom settings. Some degree-seekers focus on a specific area, such as diseases, nutrition, agriculture, clinical pathology, or cardiac biochemistry.

Careers this concentration prepares for: Biochemistry scientist, laboratory manager/scientist, protein biochemist, professor

NANOTECHNOLOGY

Professionals in this area of science study, analyze, and build experiments at the atomic and molecular levels. Specialists in nanoscience or nanotechnology study small and microscopic, synthetically produced material. Virtually every scientific field uses aspects of nanotechnology to further academic research and product development in medicine, cancer treatment, heat generation, electronics, and other consumer product areas.

Careers this concentration prepares for: Systems engineer, testing analyst, research engineer, data analyst, product developer

Career Paths for Computer Science Ph.D. Graduates

From professors and information consultants to games developers, graduates with a Ph.D. in computer science may choose from a wide variety of careers. Virtually any progressive field involving computer technology uses trained professionals to handle programming, technology development, and data analysis. These professionals should be organized, tech-savvy, and able to work in teams or independently. They should boast excellent written and spoken communication skills, a motivated self-starter mentality, and the willingness to learn new skills as the field progresses. Reliable and well-trained professionals with these traits and an online doctorate in computer science can find satisfying work with high earning potential.

COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY PROFESSOR OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

Professionals in this position work at colleges and universities as lecturers and researchers. They work with undergraduate and graduate students in specialty areas of study. Professors also teach required courses offered by their home department. In many cases, professors mentor students, serve on thesis and dissertation committees, and participate in faculty organizations on campus.

MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY

$91,590

PROJECTED GROWTH RATE

15%

ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY

$95,060

PROJECTED GROWTH RATE

9%

COMPUTER HARDWARE ENGINEER

These professionals design, develop, and test different types of technology such as memory devices, computer networks, routers, circuit boards, and other hardware. Some computer hardware engineers work for large companies, such as General Motors, to develop technology used in vehicle manufacturing. Other professionals hold research positions at universities, laboratories, and private companies.

MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY

$115,120

PROJECTED GROWTH RATE

8%

COMPUTER NETWORK ARCHITECTS

Sometimes referred to as “network engineers,” these workers design and construct communications networks, primarily through local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs). They also manage tasks related to computer hardware upgrades in homes and businesses, including routers, adapters, network drivers, and monitor systems. They typically work at computer hardware and software design firms, telecommunications agencies, and educational organizations at the state, local, and private levels.

MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY

$104,650

PROJECTED GROWTH RATE

13%

SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS

These professionals act as the creative minds behind software development and design. They design, test, and create software for customers, businesses, and local, state, and federal governments. These workers stay up-to-date on technological advances to help improve their programming and final products. They typically work at computer systems design firms and software publishers.

MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY

$103,560

PROJECTED GROWTH RATE

24%

PH.D. IN COMPUTER SCIENCE SALARY OUTLOOK

Annual earnings for graduates with a Ph.D. in computer science can vary greatly between professionals. Geographic location, training, and experience significantly affect employees’ earning potential. According to PayScale, the highest-paying computer science jobs include software development manager, security architect, computer network architect, information technology manager, and data modeler. Software engineers make the highest overall median salary, at $122,524, while security architects make the highest median late-career salary, at $144,000. The chart below displays salary information for those the five highest-paying positions in the computer science field.

Accreditation

Accreditation is the most powerful indicator of a program’s quality. Regardless of enrollment level or area of study, all degree-seekers should confirm their prospective school’s accreditation status before enrolling. This is particularly true for students in specialized subjects like computer science, where individual program accreditation often proves as important as school-wide accreditation.

SCHOOL ACCREDITATION

The U.S. Department of Education (ED) does not directly accredit schools. Instead, the government enforces universal standards for accrediting bodies. All official accreditors must hold officially recognition from the ED or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

U.S. colleges and universities can receive two types of institution-wide accreditation: national and regional. Because national accreditation typically applies to vocational and technical schools, most computer science students deal with regionally accrediting agencies. More than 85% of the U.S.’s degree-granting institutions hold regional accreditation, which ensures three things about a program:

• The school has earned the most widely recognized accreditation status in the country.
• Credits should transfer easily to other regionally accredited schools.
• Students can qualify for federal financial aid and corporate tuition reimbursement plans.

Employers, graduate schools, and professional organizations may not recognize your computer science degree if your program is not accredited. Worse, you may not get the quality education you need to compete for positions in the field once you graduate.

You can confirm the accreditation status of any post-secondary school in the country by searching the ED’s database.

PROGRAM ACCREDITATION

Program accreditation matters more than regional accreditation for most technical programs. If you’re earning your BA in English, for example, you shouldn’t worry about programmatic accreditation as long as your school holds regional accreditation. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a bachelor’s in engineering with a concentration in computer science, you should absolutely confirm program accreditation.

While many fields rely on multiple agencies to evaluate programs, the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is the only recognized U.S. accreditor of undergraduate and graduate programs in applied science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology. ABET maintains four commissions responsible for accrediting specific program areas and degree levels:

• Applied Science Accreditation Commission
• Computing Accreditation Commission
• Engineering Accreditation Commission
• Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission

Over 3,400 programs at 700 colleges and universities have received ABET accreditation since 1932. You can find ABET-approved programs through the board’s accredited program search.

Remember: Unaccredited or falsely accredited schools that attract students with low-effort, high-cost programs are considered diploma mills for a reason. They sell degrees, not education. Protect yourself and confirm a school’s accreditation status before you apply.

APPLYING TO A PROGRAM

Applying to a doctorate program is a fairly intensive and often intimidating process. It often proves expensive, as well; you’ll invest a lot of time and money in the application forms and fees. To make the best use of your resources, follow the guidelines below.

Research the Research: As mentioned, you want to ensure the program fits your interests. Know which area you plan to study, and find out which schools demonstrate strong potential for research in that area. In addition to reviewing literature on the school, if possible, contact current students or alumni and speak to potential advisers.

Pick Your Six: Don’t narrow your options so much that only acceptance from your favorite school will do. Alternatively, don’t apply to every school you find in hopes that one will take you. Instead, choose two stretch schools, or institutions that prove prestigious and competitive, but would be exciting to get into. Choose two mid-range schools, as well, along with two sure-thing schools, which you are fairly certain would accept you and provide a solid education. All six institutions must fit your specialization and research needs.

GENERAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Competition often proves fierce at the doctoral level of study. Students must demonstrate previous success to qualify for admission, especially at more prestigious institutions. Minimum test score and GPA requirements vary by school, but standards are generally high. Most Ph.D. programs require the following:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• GRE scores — minimums vary by school.
• Minimum GPA — varies by school, though 3.5 and higher is common.
• Test of English as a Foreign Language — often required for international students. Students who have completed more than one year of previous studies in the U.S. may be exempt from TEFL requirements.
• Application — includes fee, usually around $70.
• Letters of recommendation — preferably from others in the academic community.

DIRECT ADMISSION & QUALIFYING REQUIREMENTS

Direct admission holds students to higher standards and offers advantages for qualifying applicants. These students receive access to higher-level courses, labs, facilities, and research assistantships. Specific requirements for direct admission vary by school, but generally include high GRE scores.

School admission requirements also differ based on each applicant’s previous degrees. Those holding a master’s in computer science might meet different standards from those who enter directly from a bachelor’s program.

In addition to general and direct admissions requirements for Ph.D. programs, students must pass qualifying exams. These typically include both a written and oral exam. The written exam demonstrates mastery of theory, systems, and programming, while the oral exam tests students’ research abilities. Passing these requirements qualifies students to pursue their specializations.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Professional organizations function as important tools for building connections, gaining access to research documents, and keeping current on happenings in your area of study. These membership-driven organizations incur annual dues in return for access to online resources including job boards, email lists, discussion forums, and career development services. Most organizations also hold at least one annual conference. In most fields, these meetings provide valuable opportunities for members to meet their colleagues, find like-minded individuals in the field, and seek prospective employees or employers.

Association for Computing Machinery: ACM members receive access to online resources, publications, and career development resources. The association’s website contains over 2 million pages of related research materials, bibliographic citations, and article abstracts, plus a digital library. ACM boasts 170 computing conferences based on special interests and categories.

Computing Research Association: Founded in 1972, the CRA provides access to online and in-person communities of like-minded professionals in the industrial, governmental, and academic areas of the computer science field. The association offers four divisions: catalyst, women, education, and evaluation, each of which connects members with special interest groups and underrepresented groups within the association. Members gain access to online resources including job boards, email lists, discussion boards, and a digital library.

IEEE Computer Society: As the world’s largest computer science membership organization, IEEE sponsors over 200 technical conferences and events annually. The organization generates 17 scholarly journals, 13 computer science magazines, and regularly updated, cutting-edge computer science information through its myComputer application. Members receive access to online discussion communities, job boards, career development modules, and information about annual meetings.

The Institute of Engineering and Technology: Professionals can access career advice, grant and scholarship information, and discussion forums through the institute’s website. Members of IET can take advantage of its extension job search technology, updated information sections on electrical standards and codes, and teaching resources.

AAAI: AAAI sponsors annual conferences, career workshops, and symposia. Members gain access to AAAI’s online library, including full-text journal and magazine articles. The organization also offers a job board for computer science positions across the field.

SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AID

Students can fund their doctoral degrees in a variety of ways. They may seek funding from scholarships, grants, and fellowships offered by their university, or through state-specific programs and grants.

However, financial aid for doctoral studies most commonly comes from the following sources:

• Teaching Assistantships: These working positions at the student’s institution involve fulfilling teaching duties in exchange for a stipend or tuition remission. Many schools require students take on assistantships as part of the doctorate program.
• Graduate Student Research Positions: Similar in arrangement to teaching assistantships, these positions focus students’ duties on research, rather than instruction. Common tasks include data analysis, experimentation, and preparing publications for professors.
• Fellowships: In these agreements, students receive financial support in the form of tuition and a stipend, with no obligation to fulfill work requirements.

Available aid depends on department funding, grants awarded to the school, and the number of students applying for assistance.

It is fairly common for doctoral students to gain “full funding,” through which their studies are completely financed. Considering small and lesser-known schools, both nationally and abroad, may help you find a program willing to fully fund your Ph.D.

The availability of fellowship, teaching assistantships, and graduate student research positions may vary from year to year at each school.

Applicants should also research external sources of funding beyond the institution itself. Government agencies and technology corporations that specialize in your prospective area of research may prove great funding sources. They may even award fellowships if your work coincides with their goals.