PhD in Computer Science (2025 Entry)
Find out more about our PhD in Computer Science.
The PhD in Computer Science offers exciting opportunities to do cutting-edge research in an internationally renowned environment. The results of the 2021 REF rank Warwick Computer Science 4th out of 90 UK Computer Science departments. This cements our position as one of the top Computer Science departments in the UK, a position we have held for some time under different assessment methodologies.
Course overview
The PhD program is suitable for skilled and highly-motivated students to do research at the frontiers of Computer Science in a broad range of theoretical and applied topics. The program is meant to train students for high-profile jobs in both Academia and Industry.
General entry requirements
Minimum requirements
2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) and preferably an MSc in a related subject.
English language requirements
You can find out more about our English language requirementsLink opens in a new window. This course requires the following:
- Band A
- IELTS overall score of 6.5, minimum component scores not below 6.0.
International qualifications
We welcome applications from students with other internationally recognised qualifications.
For more information, please visit the international entry requirements pageLink opens in a new window.
Additional requirements
There are no additional entry requirements for this course.
Our research
Research themes
The current research themes include:
- Artificial Intelligence and Human-Centred Computing
- Applied Computing
- Data Science, Systems and Security
- Theory and Foundations
Full details on our current research is available on the Computer Science website.Link opens in a new window
Find a supervisor
Before you make a formal application, your proposal is emailed to a potential supervisor for their consideration. You may not be considered for a research degree if you do not have (and we could not identify) an academic willing to supervise your research.
Explore the research interests of our academic staff.Link opens in a new window
You can also see our general University guidance about finding a supervisor.Link opens in a new window
Research proposals
Students are encouraged to contact the department directly before submitting a proposal.
Research degree applications are highly competitive and we receive many more applications than we can accept. This means it is important to make your application as strong as possible.
We therefore ask that you write a research proposal with a clear vision of what you are looking to achieve and that your proposal aligns with a potential supervisor research interests.
We also advise that, before you make a formal application, you email your proposal to a potential supervisor for their consideration. You may not be considered for a research degree if you do not have (and we could not identify) an academic willing to supervise your research.
Tuition fees
Tuition fees are payable for each year of your course at the start of the academic year, or at the start of your course, if later. Academic fees cover the cost of tuition, examinations and registration and some student amenities.
Find your research course fees
Fee Status Guidance
We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Students will be classified as Home or Overseas fee status. Your fee status determines tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available. If you receive an offer, your fee status will be clearly stated alongside the tuition fee information.
Do you need your fee classification to be reviewed?
If you believe that your fee status has been classified incorrectly, you can complete a fee status assessment questionnaire. Please follow the instructions in your offer information and provide the documents needed to reassess your status.
Find out more about how universities assess fee status
Additional course costs
As well as tuition fees and living expenses, some courses may require you to cover the cost of field trips or costs associated with travel abroad.
For departmental specific costs, please see the Modules tab on the course web page for the list of core and optional core modules with hyperlinks to our Module Catalogue (please visit the Department’s website if the Module Catalogue hyperlinks are not provided).
Associated costs can be found on the Study tab for each module listed in the Module Catalogue (please note most of the module content applies to 2022/23 year of study). Information about module department specific costs should be considered in conjunction with the more general costs below:
- Core text books
- Printer credits
- Dissertation binding
- Robe hire for your degree ceremony
Scholarships and bursaries
Scholarships and financial support
Find out about the different funding routes available, including; postgraduate loans, scholarships, fee awards and academic department bursaries.
Living costs
Find out more about the cost of living as a postgraduate student at the University of Warwick.
Computer Science Funding Opportunities
Find out more about the various funding opportunities that are available in our department.
Computer Science at Warwick
What are computers capable of? How do we use them to solve major world problems? What are their limitations?
Computer Science at Warwick offers you a community of excellence across the breadth of computer science. Join like-minded thinkers and friends who relish the challenges of shaping future technology.
You will study the theoretical foundation in established areas of the discipline. You will then apply your learning to industrially relevant problems, developing technical and transferable skills which will position you excellently for your future career.
Find out more about us on our website.
Our Postgraduate Taught courses
Our Postgraduate Research courses
How to apply
Applications are now open for courses that start in September and October 2025.
For research courses that start in September and October 2025 the application deadline for students who require a visa to study in the UK is 2 August 2025. This should allow sufficient time to complete the admissions process and to obtain a visa to study in the UK.
How to apply for a postgraduate research course
After you’ve applied
Find out how we process your application.
Applicant Portal
Track your application and update your details.
Admissions statement
See Warwick’s postgraduate admissions policy.
Join a live chat
Ask questions and engage with Warwick.
Explore ways to connect with us
We understand how important it is to visit and explore your future university before you apply. That's why we have put together a range of online and in-person options to help you discover more about your course, visit campus, and get a sense of postgraduate life at Warwick. Our events offer includes:
- Warwick hosted events
- Postgraduate Fairs
- Live chats
- Talk and Tours
- Department events