What kind of academic background is required?
Neither of the graduate programs (M.S. or Ph.D) is an entry-level degree. Although it is not necessary that you have a B.S. in Computer Science, both degree programs assume a background with knowledge in:
Is there a GPA cutoff?
Yes, a minimum GPA of 3.0 in undergraduate work is required. However, most students accepted into the graduate program have GPAs well above that level.
Is the GRE required?
Yes, all applicants are required to take the GRE General and an appropriate Subject exam. Because our graduate programs are not entry-level, we strongly prefer that the Subject exam be in Computer Science in order to help us judge an applicant's computer science background. In truly exceptional circumstances, we may allow an alternate Subject exam to be substituted. Anyone wishing to submit scores from an area other than computer science should consult with the Department's Director of Graduate Studies prior to submitting his or her application.
Is there a TOEFL cutoff?
Yes, 620 is the minimum acceptable score. In addition, any non-native English speaker receiving support as a teaching assistant must attend and pass the appropriate University programs in spoken English.
What is the application fee? Can it be waived?
The application fee is $50 for domestic applicants and $70 for foreign applications. It cannot be waived under any circumstances.
Is there anything else involved in the admission process besides sending my application to the Graduate School?
Yes, you must supply the department with three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, official GRE scores, and TOEFL scores (if applicable). Your application cannot be processed by the Department Graduate Studies Committee until it is complete.
What are you really looking for in an applicant?
We are looking for applicants with strong academic backgrounds who have demonstrated a potential to perform creative and innovative research in computer science.
Who should I contact if I have any questions?
The Graduate Coordinator.
Can I get more information on the Department or copies of the admissions forms electronically?
Yes. You can get copies of this handbook and all of the admissions forms via anonymous ftp from ftp.cs.utah.edu. The pertinent files are in the grad_info directory. Furthermore, you can get copies of these files as well as detailed information about individual researchers' interests, ongoing research projects, and recent technical papers via the department's World Wide Web (WWW) server, located at http://www.cs.utah.edu.