Computer Science

The University of California offers a comprehensive and innovative Computer Science undergraduate program designed to equip students with a strong foundation in computing principles, coding skills, and problem-solving techniques. This program provides a rigorous curriculum that covers core areas such as algorithms, data structures, software engineering, systems programming, and computer architecture. Students have the opportunity to specialize in various fields including artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, algorithms, graphics, and human-computer interaction, allowing for tailored academic experiences aligned with their career interests.

Throughout the program, students engage in hands-on projects, collaborative research, and industry internships that prepare them for the dynamic technology landscape. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for roles in software development, systems analysis, research, and innovation. The university also offers cutting-edge laboratories and research centers that foster an environment of discovery and technological advancement.

Students benefit from experienced faculty who are leading experts in their respective areas, and from a vibrant academic community that encourages collaboration and innovation. The program supports continuous learning through seminars, hackathons, coding competitions, and partnerships with Silicon Valley companies, providing excellent networking opportunities and real-world experience.

Graduates of the Computer Science program at UC are highly sought after by employers across various industries worldwide. They leave with the skills necessary to develop software, improve existing systems, and contribute to groundbreaking advancements in technology. With access to a broad alumni network and career services, students are well-positioned to launch successful careers in tech industries, academia, startups, and government agencies. Whether pursuing further studies or jumping directly into the workforce, students receive a top-tier education that prepares them to meet the technological challenges of the future.

Each student must complete at least 47 units of course work with an average GPA of at least 3.5 for Ph.D. students and 3.0 for M.S. students. In addition, students must receive at least a B in each course counted toward filling these requirements. The set of core and elective courses chosen by a student must be approved by the student’s research advisor before advancement to candidacy. Faculty associated with each research area will provide suggested curricula for that area to guide students in their selection of courses. These curricula will also help Ph.D. students to prepare for their candidacy examination (see below) which must be taken in a specific research area.

Students must complete three quarters of COMPSCI 200S, four core courses, and seven elective courses. The course requirements are as follows:

Students must select four areas from the list of seven areas given below. From each area, they must select at least one of the courses listed for that area.

Seven elective courses from any set of CS, Informatics, or Statistics courses, including the above core courses, but excluding COMPSCI 290, COMPSCI 298, COMPSCI 299, or any course with a suffix of “S.”

Two of these courses can be graduate courses offered by a department outside of ICS, with written consent of the advisor (M.S. students must obtain written consent from the Computer Science Vice Chair for Graduate Studies).

Two of the courses can be undergraduate courses from the following list:

Students may not retake courses they have used toward an undergraduate degree and receive credit toward the graduate requirements.

No more than two undergraduate courses or COMPSCI 295 may be taken to satisfy elective course requirements.

Ph.D. students are required to serve as teaching assistants for at least two quarters.

Research Project for the Ph.D. Degree

Doctoral students must find a faculty advisor and successfully complete a research project with that faculty member by the end of their second year. In coordination with this project the student must also take at least one independent studies course (COMPSCI 299) with their faculty advisor. The objective of the research project is to demonstrate early in the program the student’s ability to carry out basic research in computer science.

Finally, the student must present the outcome of the research in a technical report, which must be approved by the advisor. The project may or may not be a stepping-stone toward a dissertation, and must be completed by the end of the second year, and prior to advancement to candidacy.

Advancement to Candidacy Examination

The objective of the candidacy examination is to demonstrate in-depth knowledge of an area of computer science and readiness to carry out independent research at the doctoral level in that area. The student must complete all pre-candidacy course requirements and the research project prior to advancing to candidacy. All requirements for candidacy including the candidacy examination must be completed by the end of the third year (or, for students entering the program with an M.S. in Computer Science, by the end of the second year). If the student does not pass on the first trial, the student will be allowed until the end of the first quarter of the fourth year to advance to candidacy. Consult the ICS Graduate Office for policies regarding committee membership. The format is an oral examination during which the student is tested on knowledge relevant to the chosen area of specialization. Each area is defined by a set of topics and reading list, which are maintained by the Computer Science Department office. New areas or changes to existing areas must be approved by a majority vote of the CS faculty in accordance with the Department’s bylaws. The current areas include the following: Algorithms and Data Structures; Computer Architecture and Embedded Systems; Database Systems and Multimedia; Computer Networks; Distributed Systems; Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning; Informatics in Biology and Medicine; Computer Graphics and Visual Computing; Cryptography and Computer Security; Computational Neuroscience; Scientific Computing; Systems Software.

The examination is graded pass or fail. In order to pass, the Candidacy Committee must unanimously approve the final outcome. In the case of a fail, the examination may be retaken once. Students who fail on the second try will be recommended for disqualification from the doctoral program.

Doctoral Dissertation Topic Defense

The student must produce a substantial written document representing the dissertation plan. This must include the proposed dissertation abstract, a dissertation outline, and a detailed plan for completing the work. A dissertation defense committee is formed in accordance with UCI Senate regulations. The dissertation committee must unanimously approve the student’s proposal. At the discretion of the student’s advisor, the student may be required to give an oral presentation of the proposed plan to the committee. This must be completed by the end of the fourth year. It is expected that this will be done at least a year prior to the final examination and before most of the dissertation research and writing are undertaken. The idea is for students to demonstrate that they have a clear plan for carrying out the research for their dissertation. It also gives the student an understanding of what will be expected for final approval of the dissertation.

Doctoral Dissertation and Final Examination

Ph.D. students are required to complete a Ph.D. dissertation in accordance with Academic Senate regulations. In addition, they must pass an oral dissertation defense which consists of a public seminar presenting results followed by a private examination by the doctoral committee and other interested members of the Computer Science Department faculty.

Students entering the Ph.D. program with an M.S. in Computer Science must advance to candidacy within two years. All others must advance within three years. The normative time for completion of the Ph.D. is five years, and the maximum time permitted is seven years.

Requirements

GRE and TOEFL Scores

Arrange to have your official test scores sent from the testing agency to UC Irvine. Photocopies or scans will not be accepted.

GRE

• The General GRE is required of ALL applicants.
• For official GRE General test scores, use Institutional code: 4859
• There is no minimum GRE score.
• GRE scores are good for five years, after which time the exam must be retaken.
• We cannot accept GMAT scores in lieu of GRE scores.

TOEFL

• The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is required of international applicants.
• For official TOEFL test scores, use Institutional code: 4859
• The minimum TOEFL score is 80. For more information, please see Graduate Division's English Proficiency site.
• UCI will only waive the TOEFL requirement for applicants who have completed ALL requirements for a B.S., M.S. or Ph.D. degree in the U.S. prior to submitting their application.

» Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required, but you may submit as many letters as you wish.

For paper submission

Provide the Letter of Recommendation and Waiver of Access forms to at least three people you have identified who can evaluate your academic and/or professional achievements, describe your strengths and weaknesses and comment on your character, integrity and motivation. Your recommenders should mail his/her letter directly to:

ICS Graduate Office
Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences
352 Information & Computer Science Bldg.
University of California, Irvine
Irvine, CA 92697-3430

For online submission

Applicants who have completed and submitted their online application should send their recommenders a link to that page, along with their application ID number.

» Personal Statement

The Personal Statement (same as Statement of Purpose) should be submitted via the online application.

» Official Transcripts

Arrange to have one copy of your official transcripts from the colleges you attended sent directly to the ICS Graduate Office.

An official English translation is required from international students.

Photocopies, scans, or unofficial copies of transcripts will not be accepted.

Scholarships

• Fellowships or Grants
• Teaching or Research Assistantships 
• Need-based Financial Aid
• Personal Resources 

The University of California offers a comprehensive Computer Science undergraduate program designed to provide students with a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of computing. The curriculum encompasses a diverse range of courses covering algorithms, data structures, software engineering, computer architecture, operating systems, databases, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and programming languages. Students are encouraged to engage in research projects, internships, and collaborative work to gain real-world experience and prepare for careers in industry, academia, or entrepreneurship. The program emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and innovative approaches to complex computing challenges. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, computing resources, and a vibrant academic community that fosters collaboration and lifelong learning. The faculty comprises renowned researchers and industry experts dedicated to advancing the field through teaching and groundbreaking research. The program also offers specialization options, allowing students to focus on areas such as machine learning, software engineering, or computer graphics. Graduates earn a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and are well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees or enter the workforce as software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, or other technology roles. The university’s strong connections to Silicon Valley and the tech industry provide ample opportunities for networking, mentorship, and employment placement. Overall, the Computer Science program at the University of California aims to cultivate innovative, skilled professionals who can contribute to technological advancements and address societal challenges through computer science expertise.