Programs & Admissions
We offer two PhD programs: the standalone CSE PhD focused on foundational, cross-disciplinary research, and the Dept‑CSE PhD integrating computational work within a specific discipline.
Doctoral Programs
CCSE’s doctoral programs provide students with a strong foundation in computation as well as the intellectual rigor and research skills needed to succeed in academia or industry.
CSE PhD
The standalone program is targeted to students who intend to pursue research in cross-cutting methodological aspects of CSE.
- Applicants are expected to have a background in CSE, applied math, or similar field that prepares them for an advanced degree in CSE.
- Enrolled students complete a customizable program of study that includes six ‘ways of thinking’ fundamental to CSE.
- The emphasis of thesis research activities is the development and analysis of broadly applicable computational approaches that advance the state of the art.
- Degrees are awarded by CCSE in Computational Science and Engineering
Dept-CSE PhD
The joint program is for students interested in computation in the context of a specific engineering or science discipline.
- Applicants are expected to have a background in a specific engineering or science discipline and a strong foundation in computation.
- Enrolled students complete home department requirements with some deviations specific to the joint program.
- Thesis research activities have a strong disciplinary focus and include new/innovative application of computational techniques.
- Degrees are awarded by the home departments with specialized thesis fields highlighting the computational focus.
Why Choose MIT CSE for Your Graduate Education?
A Location for Innovation
Biotech labs. Research institutions. Places to unwind, recharge, and get inspired. Kendall Square, Cambridge and Boston offer plenty of paths for your talents and the vibrant possibilities that come with living in and around “the most innovative square mile on the planet.”
A Collaborative Community
The Center’s PIs, postdocs and graduate students work in labs all across the Institute. Together, they create novel tools, methods and algorithms for modeling, simulation and validation of theoretical understanding.
A Hands-On Approach
Our educational approach, reflected in the MIT motto Mens et Manus, engages graduate students directly in the process of innovation—hands-on work, often carried out in research groups, that requires creativity and camaraderie.
Research in Action
Groundbreaking research starts with a strong foundation. Learn more about our students’ thesis work and how they are advancing the field of CSE.
CSE Master of Science Program
We are not currently accepting external applications for the CSE Master of Science (CSE SM) Program. Additional information, including any future plans to restart external admissions, will be posted here if/when available.
Current MIT graduate students may be eligible to apply to CSE SM as a secondary degree. Use your Kerberos login to learn more.