George Mason University’s College of Engineering and Computing offers a highly-ranked Ph.D. in Information Technology (IT) program.

The program will prepare students for leadership roles in academia, industry, and government. Graduates will have the skills and knowledge to conduct original research and make significant contributions to the field of information technology.
Program Highlights
- Ranked among the top 50 IT programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report
- A diverse faculty with expertise in all areas of IT
- State-of-the-art research facilities
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration
- A strong focus on experiential learning
Curriculum
The Ph.D. in IT program consists of coursework, research, and a dissertation. Coursework covers the following core areas:
- Information systems
- Databases
- Networking
- Security
- Data analytics
Students will also choose a specialization in one of the following areas:
- Artificial intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Data science
- Human-computer interaction
- Software engineering
Research Opportunities
Students in the Ph.D. in IT program have the opportunity to conduct research in a variety of areas, including:
- Artificial intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Data science
- Human-computer interaction
- Software engineering
Students will work closely with their faculty advisors to develop a research plan that aligns with their interests and career goals.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the Ph.D. in IT program are employed in a variety of roles, including:
- Faculty members at universities and colleges
- Researchers at government and industry labs
- Software engineers and architects
- Data scientists
- Cybersecurity analysts
Application Information
Applications for the Ph.D. in IT program are accepted on a rolling basis. The application deadline is December 15th for fall admission.
Applicants must have a master’s degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field. Applicants must also have a strong academic record and research experience.
Tuition and Fees
The tuition and fees for the Ph.D. in IT program vary depending on the student’s residency status. For more information, please visit the George Mason University website.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the admission requirements for the Ph.D. in IT program?
Applicants must have a master’s degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field. Applicants must also have a strong academic record and research experience.
- What is the program length?
The Ph.D. in IT program is a five-year program.
- What are the career opportunities for graduates of the program?
Graduates of the Ph.D. in IT program are employed in a variety of roles, including: faculty members at universities and colleges, researchers at government and industry labs, software engineers and architects, data scientists, and cybersecurity analysts.
- What is the tuition and fees for the program?
The tuition and fees for the Ph.D. in IT program vary depending on the student’s residency status. For more information, please visit the George Mason University website.
- How do I apply to the program?
Applications for the Ph.D. in IT program are accepted on a rolling basis. The application deadline is December 15th for fall admission. For more information, please visit the George Mason University website.
- What is the research focus of the program?
The program has a strong focus on interdisciplinary and collaborative research. The program’s faculty members are actively engaged in research in a variety of areas, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, human-computer interaction, and software engineering.
- What are the opportunities for experiential learning in the program?
Students in the program have the opportunity to participate in a variety of experiential learning opportunities, including internships, research projects, and industry partnerships.
- What is the job market for IT professionals?
The job market for IT professionals is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for computer and information research scientists is $126,830.
