Research Degrees: PhD and MSc

Students are involved in diverse research projects across the entire spectrum of computer science. In many cases, we offer funded studentships; these positions attract a handsome tax-free scholarship as well as payment of University fees (see Vacancies).

Completion of a PhD typically takes about 4 years after a bachelors degree. The School is now following UCD's new Structured PhD programme. We currently have around 200 postgraduate research students, and the School has a strong international flavor, with students and academic staff from around the world.

We admit new students throughout the year and there are is no specific application deadline. Our students generally have a strong primary degree in computer science or a cognate discipline, but we welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds. The application process has two steps:

• First, you should contact relevant members of the department to discuss potential topics and projects, starting dates, studentships, etc. To identify a prospective supervisor, please browse our staff home pages, or look under Research. We also have a postgrad scholarship vacancies page. However, not all our opportunities are listed here so it's still worthwhile either contacting staff directly or our postgraduate director, who can make suggestions if you describe your areas of interest.
• Next, if these initial discussions are successful, you should complete the formal application form. As described in this form, to support your application you must submit a Statement of Research Interests, university transcripts, your TOEFL results (if applicable), and reports from two referees.

Application Forms

• Bursary Application Information 2008 (doc, pdf, odf)
• Application form (MS Word)
• Application form (pdf)
• Referee form (MS Word)
• Referee form (pdf)

Please note that if you are not an EU national, you will need a visa to travel to and live in Ireland. While we can offer assistance, you must understand that UCD has no control over the Irish immigration authorities. You should contact your nearest Irish embassy/consulate to determine what documentation will be required. Visa can take weeks and even 6 months to process! Please be assured that your EU status is entirely irrelevant when we assess applications.

For more information on pursuing a PhD, you can download the Irish Universities' PhD Graduates' Skills pamphlet.  This document describes the desired learning outcomes and skills that PhD students may develop during their studies

If you have any further queries, please contact Dr. Neil Hurley our postgraduate director.