Timelines & Requirements (PHDAI)

Admission requirements

Admission Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree from an appropriately accredited institution of higher education.
  • Applicants should hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in artificial intelligence, computer science, cybersecurity, data science, data privacy, or another related technology-oriented field.
• Minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent on an alternative grading system).
• Knowledge in artificial intelligence and computer science.
  • Applicants should demonstrate foundational knowledge in artificial intelligence and computer science. Applicants who have not completed the expected coursework or gained equivalent experience may still be considered for admission if they meet the other admission requirements and demonstrate the ability to succeed in the program. Additional prerequisite coursework may be required.
• GRE scores are not required for admission to the program. Applicants seeking consideration for a graduate assistantship must submit GRE scores.

Application deadlines

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis as completed materials are received. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as admission decisions may be made throughout the review period and space may be limited.

To be considered for admission, completed applications must be received by:

Domestic applicants

• May 1 for the following Fall semester
• September 15 for the following Spring semester

International applicants

• April 15 for the following Fall semester
• September 15 for the following Spring semester

Applications received after these deadlines may be considered only if space remains available.

Apply Now  Academic calendar 

Application materials checklist

• Completed online application

  • Submit the $40 application fee.

  • After submitting your online application, you can log into your application portal to complete any remaining application documents and check the status of your application. 

• Purpose statement (in online application) 
  • In 200 to 300 words, explain why you are pursuing this degree and how your education, experience, and interests have prepared you for doctoral study.
    • Why are you choosing to pursue this degree?
    • What role does this degree program play in your career objectives?
    • What special knowledge, skills, or experiences prepare you to succeed in this program?
  • This is also an opportunity to expand on how you meet the specific program admission requirements.
• Official transcripts
  Official transcripts should show a conferred bachelor's degree. Transcripts with graduate credit can be submitted for credit-transfer consideration. 
  
  Official transcripts can be submitted to DSU-GraduateAdmissions@dsu.edu.

Additional application requirements for international applicants only

• English translated transcripts
  Submit your transcripts with English translation. 
• English proficiency documentation
  View scoring requirements

Assistantship application for on-campus/full-time students

A limited number of competitive graduate assistantships are available, primarily to full-time, on-campus students. Applicants who wish to be considered should indicate their interest in the online application and submit a résumé and GRE scores through the application portal after applying.

FAQS 

How much does the program cost? 

DSU charges tuition on a per-credit basis. Current tuition rates for online and on-campus courses are available through DSU Tuition Costs. Tuition for on-campus students varies based on residency status.

Does this program require the GRE to apply?

No, DSU does not require a GRE score for graduate program applications.

GRE scores are not required for admission to the program. Applicants seeking consideration for a graduate assistantship must submit GRE scores. A combined score of approximately 320 or higher is preferred for assistantship consideration.

Does DSU require English proficiency scores for international applicants?

Yes, please visit International Admissions Requirements for more information on English proficiency requirements and additional application materials required for international applicants. 

Are assistantship awards available?

Yes. A limited number of competitive graduate assistantships are available, primarily to full-time, on-campus students. In limited circumstances, online students may be considered when the assistantship duties can be completed remotely and the arrangement is approved by the program and employing unit. GRE scores are required for assistantship consideration.

How long does the degree typically take to complete?

The time required to complete the program will vary based on a student’s enrollment pace, preparation, research topic, and progress through doctoral milestones. Part-time students taking approximately one course per semester may complete the required coursework in three to four years, while students maintaining a heavier course load may complete the coursework in two to three years. After completing the required coursework, students must progress through the program’s qualifying milestones, dissertation preparation and proposal process, research and writing, and final dissertation defense. The length of the dissertation phase varies based on the student’s research topic, methodology, progress, and other doctoral milestones.

Can I review what research or dissertation topics DSU doctoral students are currently working on?

Absolutely! The DSU Beadle Scholar Archive includes dissertations, theses, and other research completed by DSU graduate students. Prospective students may review these materials to learn more about the types of research conducted at DSU.

Can the application fee be waived?

The application fee is required for all programs and cannot be waived by University Policy.

When can I expect to hear if my application has been accepted?

Admission decisions are generally communicated within several weeks after all required application materials have been received and the application is complete. Applicants may use the application portal (apply.dsu.edu/apply) to monitor their status and identify any remaining requirements.

Apply Now