The Computer and Information Science Ph.D. program prepares a student to undertake independent research leading to science and engineering advances in computer and information sciences. The program is structured around the Ph.D. dissertation, with coursework and seminars designed to attain the requisite quality of the dissertation. An important criterion for the dissertation is that it be publishable in a recognized journal and presentable at international conferences. The Ph.D. program focuses on four research tracks: Artificial Intelligence and Applications, which is concerned with systems that exhibit intelligent behavior, Computer and Network Systems, which covers systems programming, operating systems, and system architectures, including networks and distributed systems, Information Systems, which focuses on systems that provide information to improve the performance of organizations, and Software Systems, which is dedicated to the creation of software and its associated methodologies.<br><br>The Computer and Information Science PhD prepares students to undertake independent research to promote science and engineering advances in the field of computer and information sciences. Doctoral students work closely with faculty at the frontier of research in the field, developing theory, methodology and experimental skills to investigate and solve advanced technological issues. The program can be completed on either a full- or part-time basis, and classes take place during the evening. Many doctoral students work 20 hours each week in teaching assistant roles. This means that most students will be funded for up to four years beyond a master's degree.<br><br>Advance the field of artificial intelligence with a terminal degree for future educators, researchers, and developers. Students learn the characteristics and specifications of systems that exhibit intelligent behavior before theorizing on the next step for this technology.