Computer Science PhD

University of Bath

A research degree in Computer Science will equip you with skills you can use to develop new products and systems in areas where computers play an integral role.

Our research is strongly interdisciplinary and combines practical applications with a sound theoretical understanding. Most students complete this programme in 4 years. You cannot take less than 2 years to finish your research and the maximum time you are allowed is normally 4 years.

Most research students who ‘do a PhD’ register in the first instance as probationer for the degree of PhD. Candidates are expected to carry out supervised research at the leading edge of their chosen subject, which must then be written up as a substantial thesis. The confirmation of the PhD programme (and the end of the probationary period) is subject to students passing an assessment process, which normally involves submission of written work and on oral examination which usually takes place 12 months after the initial registration. The final stage of the PhD degree is the oral or viva voce examination, in which students are required to defend the thesis to a Board of Examiners.