Doctor of Philosophy in Computational Media

UC Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, CA

The Ph.D. in computational media (CM) is designed for those who are already actively working in computational media and want to develop new knowledge that will change what is possible and how we understand it. The Ph.D. program includes all the course requirements of the M.S., with the exception of those related to the M.S. thesis. Ph.D. students have a number of additional requirements, as well. First, they must take additional topics courses, building understanding of a broader set of CM approaches. Second, they must pass both a first-year exam and a comprehensive exam, setting clear milestones for the development of expert-level knowledge in CM. Third, they must engage in substantial independent research that contributes to the development of the field, working closely with CM research faculty. Fourth, they must propose, complete, and defend a significant and novel dissertation project. The Ph.D. is appropriate for those who aim to lead future CM research efforts, within the academy, industry, government, non-profit, and other contexts.