A Ph.D. in Computer Engineering is an advanced degree program that focuses on researching, designing, and developing new technologies related to computer hardware, software, and systems. The program typically takes between 4-6 years to complete and involves intensive coursework, research, and a dissertation.
During the Ph.D. program, students are expected to explore topics related to computer engineering such as computer architecture, computer networks, cybersecurity, software engineering, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. They will also develop the necessary skills to conduct independent research, evaluate existing research, and analyze data.
Students are typically required to complete a certain number of core courses and electives related to their area of interest, as well as pass qualifying exams to advance to candidacy. Upon completing the required coursework, Ph.D. students will work closely with a faculty advisor to develop a research proposal and conduct independent research. The research findings will be presented in the form of a dissertation, which will be defended in front of a panel of faculty members.
A Ph.D. in Computer Engineering can open up a wide range of career opportunities, including positions in academia, research institutions, government agencies, and private industry. Graduates with a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering may work as computer hardware engineers, software developers, network architects, cybersecurity experts, machine learning engineers, and data scientists, among others.
Course Level | Postgraduate Level |
Full Form | Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Engineering |
Course Duration | 3 year to 5 year |
Eligibility Criteria | Minimum of 55% marks in Post Graduation |
Admission Process | Entrance Exam and Merit Based |
Job Opportunities | University professors, Industrial R&D Lab professionals, Start-Up mentors, Authors, Senior research scientists and others |
Here are some highlights of a PhD in Computer Engineering:
Research-focused: A Ph.D. in Computer Engineering is a research-focused program where students spend the majority of their time conducting independent research in their area of interest.
Advanced coursework: The program typically involves advanced coursework that provides students with a deep understanding of the theories and principles of computer engineering, as well as specialized knowledge in their area of focus.
Faculty mentorship: Ph.D. students work closely with faculty members who act as their mentors and advisors throughout the program. Faculty mentors guide students in their research, provide feedback and support, and help students develop a strong academic and research profile.
Interdisciplinary research: Computer engineering is an interdisciplinary field that combines elements of computer science, electrical engineering, and other related fields. Ph.D. students in computer engineering may have the opportunity to work on interdisciplinary research projects that draw on multiple fields of study.
Career opportunities: Graduates of a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering program have a wide range of career opportunities, including positions in academia, research institutions, government agencies, and private industry.
Contribution to society: Ph.D. students in computer engineering have the opportunity to make significant contributions to society by developing new technologies that improve people's lives, advance scientific knowledge, and solve complex problems.
Most universities and colleges offering a PhD in Computer Engineering require applicants to take a standardized entrance exam such as the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) or GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering). The specific exam required may vary depending on the institution.
To apply for a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering, applicants must typically hold a Master's degree in Computer Engineering or a related field. Some institutions may consider applicants with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, but they may be required to complete additional coursework. In addition to academic qualifications, universities also consider research experience, publications, and other relevant factors when evaluating applicants.
The duration of a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering program typically ranges from 4-6 years, depending on the institution and the research topic.
Admission to a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering program is highly competitive, and selection criteria may vary depending on the institution. Some common selection criteria include:
Academic record: Applicants are evaluated based on their academic performance in undergraduate and graduate coursework.
Research experience: Applicants with research experience, publications, or presentations may be given priority during the admission process.
Entrance exam scores: Institutions may require applicants to submit GRE or GATE scores as part of the application process.
Letters of recommendation: Letters of recommendation from academic advisors or professional colleagues can provide additional insight into an applicant's qualifications and potential for success in the program.
To apply for a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering, applicants must typically submit the following materials:
The application process for a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering typically involves filling out an online or paper application form provided by the institution. Applicants must submit their academic transcripts, entrance exam scores (if required), statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and pay an application fee. Each institution may have specific requirements, so applicants should carefully review the application process and deadlines for each program.
The application fee for a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering varies depending on the institution. The fee can range from a few hundred to several thousand rupees. Applicants should check with the institution to determine the specific fee and payment method.
The syllabus for a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering may vary depending on the institution and the research area. However, common topics covered include computer architecture, computer networks, algorithms, software engineering, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analysis.
Graduates of a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering program have a wide range of career opportunities. Some of the popular job roles for Ph.D. in Computer Engineering graduates include research scientist, software developer, computer hardware engineer, network architect, cybersecurity expert, data analyst, and academic faculty. The salary for Ph.D. in Computer Engineering graduates varies depending on the job role, industry, and location. On average, graduates can expect to earn a starting salary of around Rs. 8-12 lakhs per annum.
A Ph.D. in Computer Engineering opens up a wide range of career opportunities, including positions in academia, research institutions, government agencies, and private industry. Graduates with a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering may work as computer hardware engineers, software developers, network architects, cybersecurity experts, machine learning engineers, and data scientists, among others.
Some of the top colleges in India offering a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering program include the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi, Mumbai, Kanpur, Kharagpur, Chennai, and Roorkee, as well as the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore. Other top institutions include the Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani, the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Surathkal, and the International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Hyderabad.
Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.
NOTE:- Students are requested to note that their application will not be considered for admission if the above certificates are not enclosed with their application.
Given below are few of the important highlights of the program.
Program Full Name | Doctor of Philosophy in Computer and Software Engineering |
Program Level | Doctorate Degree Courses |
Duration of the Program | 3 Years |
Examination Type | Year |
Eligibility | Postgraduate Degree in a Relevant Discipline With Minimum 55% Marks ( 50% for SC/ST Candidates ) |
Admission Process | Entrance Exam and Merit Based |
Average Program Fee | Rs. 3 Lakh - Rs. 4 Lakh |
Syllabus of Management as prescribed by various Universities and Colleges.
Paper Code | Subjects of Study |
Mentioned below are some states in India that offer the program.