Prepare For a Career in CIS Research

3 students working around a table in RUCOur Ph.D. in computer and information science is a full-time, research-oriented degree for students interested in research and development careers in industry or academia. It equips you with the analytical skills needed to create innovative solutions for complex problems using high-quality translational research in computer and information science. Completing the CIS Ph.D. typically takes five years; the program has a time limit of seven years.

To lessen financial concerns, all Ph.D. students receive full funding in the form of appointments as a graduate student instructor, a research assistant, or both. The appointments provide a monthly stipend, health insurance, and a tuition waiver. Students are guaranteed full funding for up to five years provided they maintain good academic standing and adequate progress toward their degree.

Where a PhD in CIS Will Take You

Our Ph.D. program prepares students for careers in academia, software development, data analysis, research sciences, and more. Our graduates have been recruited to join the faculties of the University of Chicago, the Rochester Institute of Technology, DePaul University, the University of Michigan-Flint, Central Michigan University, Kuwait University, and King Faisal University. They’ve also been hired to work at technology leaders such as Microsoft, eBay, Amazon, Ford, General Motors, and Quicken Loans.

Career and Salary Outlook

The information in this table is meant to give you an idea of career opportunities with this degree. All information is pulled from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and is meant to be averages across the United States for 2022. Please note that these figures reflect overall averages and may not represent entry-level salaries.

$145,080 Median Salary

Computer and Information Research Scientists 

Employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 23 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 3,400 openings for computer and information research scientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$103,800 Median Salary

Computer Systems Analysts

Employment of computer systems analysts is projected to grow 10 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 37,600 openings for computer systems analysts are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$120,360 Median Salary

Information Security Analysts 

Employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 32 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 16,800 openings for information security analysts are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$117,450 Median Salary

Database Administrators and Architects

Overall employment of database administrators and architects is projected to grow 8 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

About 10,200 openings for database administrators and architects are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$92,750 Median Salary

Web Developers and Digital Designers

Overall employment of web developers and digital designers is projected to grow 16 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 19,000 openings for web developers and digital designers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Program Details

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Tuition

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Application Deadlines

This program operates on a strict deadline. All application and materials must be submitted by February 1 for Fall consideration and August 1 for Winter consideration. Please plan ahead to meet all deadlines and optimize your chances of acceptance.

Application Deadlines

Graduate Scholarships

Learn about scholarship opportunities for new and continuing graduate students.

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How to Get Involved

Students working in the library

Students looking to get involved in research have plenty of opportunities at UM-Dearborn. Faculty advisors guide students through their research topics and often involve students in their research projects. Beyond the classroom, students can take part in various workshops, seminars, and networking events.

Next Steps

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