Computer Engineering (Computer Systems), PhD
Algorithms, Computer, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Engineer, Hardware, approved for STEM-OPT extension, design, digital, systems
Develop a distinct combination of computer science and electrical engineering skills and expertise.
The Doctor of Philosophy program in computer engineering with a concentration in computer systems prepares you to conduct transformative research at the intersection of hardware and software, driving innovation in next-generation computing systems.
This transdisciplinary program encompasses computer science, electrical engineering, applied mathematics and the physical sciences. You may have the opportunity to conduct original research that advances the design, analysis and optimization of computing systems.
As a doctoral student, you work across two schools --- the School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence and the School of Electrical, Computer and Energy Engineering --- to gain deep expertise in both hardware and software foundations. The program provides rigorous preparation beyond the master's level, equipping you to independently pursue creative and high-impact innovations.
You analyze and synthesize key theories and methods used in computer engineering, while generating and evaluating new theories, methods and designs that can advance the field. More specifically, you develop the skills to advance the design, system integration, testing, evaluation and deployment of the state-of-the-art hardware and software for systems that include computing, communications and networking (wired and wireless), control functions, sensing, signal processing and actuation.
This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.
The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.
- College/school:
Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering
- Location: Tempe
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation
Required Core (6 credit hours) Concentration (9 credit hours) Focus Area Electives (3 credit hours) Technical Electives (30 credit hours) Research (24 credit hours) Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) Additional Curriculum Information The concentration and focus area course lists are on the computer engineering program website, and students must complete at least nine credit hours of graduate-level coursework in computer engineering (CEN) or computer science (CSE), and at least three credit hours of graduate-level coursework in electrical engineering (EEE) or computer engineering. This program requires a qualifying exam. Students should see the academic unit for information on timeline and satisfactory progress standards. Students may apply up to 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree toward their doctoral interactive plan of study with approval of the program and supervisory committee and the dean of the Graduate College.
CSE 551 Foundations of Algorithms (3)
EEE 554 Probability and Random Processes (3)
CEN 792 Research (24)
CEN 799 Dissertation (12)
Concentration, focus area and technical elective courses are selected in consultation with the academic unit.
General university admission requirements:
All students are required to meet general
university admission requirements.
U.S.
applicants | International
applicants | English
proficiency
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.
Applicants must have earned a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) or a graduate degree from a regionally accredited institution of recognized standing in a related field such as computer engineering, computer science, computer systems engineering or electrical engineering.
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
All applicants must submit:
- graduate admission application and application fee
- personal statement
- three letters of recommendation
- official transcripts
- proof of English proficiency
Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of current residency by scoring at least 4 on the Internet-based TOEFL (iBT)®, or a score of 80 if taken before January 21, 2026 in a testing center; 6.5 on the IELTS; or 105 on the Duolingo English test.
Letters of recommendation are optional.
The personal statement should explain the applicant's professional goals and their reasons for applying to the program.
Depending on their prior academic preparation and accomplishments, it is recommended that some students consider taking the following courses to ensure adequate background preparation:
CSE 230 Computer Organization and Assembly Language Programming
CSE 310 Data Structures and Algorithms
EEE 203 Signals and Systems I
EEE 335 Analog and Digital Circuits
EEE 350 Random Signal Analysis
MAT 243 Discrete Mathematical Structures
MAT 265 Calculus for Engineers I
MAT 266 Calculus for Engineers II
Students should see the program website for application details.
| Session | Modality | Deadline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session A/C | In Person | 12/31 | Priority |
| Session | Modality | Deadline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session A/C | In Person | 08/15 | Priority |
Graduates are well positioned for careers in academia, advanced research laboratories, or highly technical entrepreneurial ventures, where they lead the development of next-generation computing technologies. The skills they acquire can be applied in high-demand growth areas, such as autonomous systems and robotics; distributed, dependable and secure systems; and embedded systems for media processing and communications. Career examples include:
- computer engineering professor
- computer engineering researcher
- computer hardware engineer
- computer systems engineer
- systems software engineer
Computer Science and Engineering Program
|
CTRPT 105
SCAI.Grad.Admission@asu.edu
480-965-3199
Admission deadlines
Program term definitions
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.
