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 in the core areas of computer science. If you don't have this background, you'll have to make it up once you start your graduate studies by taking appropriate courses. Please note though that undergraduate courses are not supported by the tuition waiver program for graduate students. See the next Chapter about the tuition waiver program.
Is there a GPA cutoff?
Yes, a minimum GPA of 3.0 in undergraduate work is required. Most students accepted into the graduate program have GPAs well above that level.
Is the GRE required?
Applicants are required to take the GRE General exam. Applicants who demonstrate greater depth of knowledge through GRE Subject exam will be given favorable consideration. The School of Computing prefers the GRE Computer Science Subject exam, but will consider GRE Subject exams in other technical specialities. Applicants who hold an advanced degree in computer science or another technical field may petition to omit GRE scores.
Is there a TOEFL cutoff?
Yes, the minimum acceptable score is 260 (620 in the old, paper-based testing scheme). In addition, any non-native English speaker who receives 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?
There is no application fee for the School of Computing. However, students who are accepted into the School's graduate program and decide to attend, must then submit an application form to the University of Utah. The University application fee is $40 for domestic applicants and $60 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 School of Computing?
Yes, you must supply the School with three letters of recommendation, academic transcripts, a personal statement, official GRE scores, and TOEFL scores (if applicable). Your application cannot be processed by the School's Graduate Studies Committee until it is complete.
Can I get more information on the School or copies of the admissions forms electronically?
Yes. You can get copies of this handbook and all of the admissions forms as well as detailed information about individual researchers' interests, ongoing research projects, and recent technical papers via the School's World Wide Web (WWW) server, located at http://www.cs.utah.edu. No admissions forms will be mailed; you must obtain them electronically.
Do I have to contact a faculty member to support my admission?
No. Students are accepted to the School, rather than to a specific research group, by a general admissions committee. Of course, you should feel free to contact a research group if you have questions about their research. Once you begin your studies here, you are encouraged to join a particular group whose research interests you at any time. Sending multiple emails to faculty asking for support or looking to join a group before you are admitted does not advance the process.
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 the research areas represented by the School of Computing.
Who should I contact if I have any questions?
Marilyn Gorder (gorder@cs.utah.edu), the Graduate Coordinator.