Ph.D. in Applied Computing and Information Sciences
Grounded in a user-centered and interdisciplinary approach, the Ph.D. in Applied Computing and Information Sciences (ACIS) prepares scholars and professionals to lead innovation in computing, information technologies, and artificial intelligence—particularly at the intersection of people, organizations, and systems.
This program emphasizes the research and application of scientific methods to the design, integration, and management of intelligent systems that solve complex, human-centered challenges. Areas of focus include artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, usability engineering, and AI-integrated decision-making. Students are trained to leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning tools not just to enhance systems, but to inform and guide strategic, research-based leadership decisions.
Unlike a master’s degree, which focuses on the application of existing knowledge, this Ph.D. program emphasizes original research that contributes new knowledge and best practices to a broad range of fields—ultimately shaping how information systems are designed, taught, and managed. Distinct from traditional computer science programs, which often focus on theory and formal methods, this applied computing degree is deeply connected to real-world organizational needs and user-centered solutions.
Graduates are equipped to lead in academia, industry, and government, advancing innovation and improving practice across multiple domains employing computing and information sciences.
Courses & Curriculum
To earn the Doctorate in Applied Computing and Information Sciences, students must complete 66 graduate credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree. Students also must complete a comprehensive examination, dissertation, and dissertation defense to earn the degree.
The University’s academic catalog is published each year and serves as the definitive source for program information, degree requirements, and academic policies.
Students should refer to the catalog from the year they entered the University. Archived catalogs are available online for easy access.
Use the catalog to:
- Review degree requirements for Ph.D. in Applied Computing and Information Sciences
- Explore course descriptions and credit hour details
- Understand academic policies, grading, and progression standards
If you have questions about your catalog year or curriculum plan, contact your academic advisor or program coordinator.
Admission Requirements
In addition to the general application and admission requirements of the Graduate School, applicants to the Ph.D. program in Applied Computing and Information Sciences must provide:
- evidence of a bachelor’s degree; a master’s degree preferred
- completion of undergraduate or graduate coursework in calculus, probability and statistics, and programming using a high-level language such as Python, databases / SQL, and computer networking and telecommunications
- curriculum vitae or resume
- research statement describing interests and experience
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Career Opportunities for Informatics Graduates
Informatics and computing are among the fastest growing professions in the country. In fact, the national job outlook for computing and information technology occupations is expected to grow faster than average (i.e., about 10%, depending upon the specific occupation) between now and the year 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As a graduate with your Ph.D. in Applied Computing and Information Sciences, you’ll be highly skilled, technically trained, and extremely employable in both Louisiana and across the country.
Graduates with a Ph.D. in Applied Computing and Information Sciences are equipped for careers in areas including:
- Chief Security Officer (CSO)
- University Professor
- Research or Data Scientist
- Chief Information/Technology Officer (CIO/CTO)
- Research Lab Director
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Chief AI Officer (CAIO)
- Database Architect
- Senior Product Manager
Contact the Graduate Coordinator
For more information about the Ph.D. in Applied Computing and Information Sciences program, contact the graduate coordinator:
Dr. Mehmet Engin Tozal, Graduate Coordinator
metozal@louisiana.edu
337-482-6604