Affording Your Graduate Education at UNO
UNO offers some of the most affordable graduate tuition rates in the region, plus a wide range of funding resources to support graduate students along the way.
Research That Drives the Future of Computing & Innovation
Program Overview
The Computing & Information Science Doctor of Philosophy program at UNO is a research-intensive, multidisciplinary doctoral program that prepares students to lead in the advanced computing and information technology field. Through close faculty mentorship and hands-on research in areas like artificial intelligence, data analytics, software engineering, and cybersecurity, students gain the expertise needed to drive innovation and succeed in competitive industry roles or research-focused careers.
$141k
Median salary for this degree1
20%
Increased demand for related careers in the next 10 years1
48,300
computer and information research scientists estimated to be employed by 20341
Concentration Areas
Artificial Intelligence Concentration
This concentration builds advanced skills in intelligent systems, machine learning, and natural language technologies, preparing students to create AI solutions for complex computational problems.
Computing Systems Concentration
This concentration focuses on modern architectures, networks, and operating systems, equipping students to design secure, scalable, and high‑performance computing environments.
Human-Centered Computing Concentration
This concentration explores how people interact with technology, preparing students to design intuitive, research‑driven systems that improve user experience and digital engagement.
IT Project Management Concentration
This concentration strengthens expertise in information systems research and advanced project management, preparing students to lead complex IT initiatives and guide technical teams effectively.
Program Details
The program offers a flexible curriculum that allows you to shape your research path across computing, information systems, and informatics.
- Partner with faculty on funded research projects
- Gain experience through research assistantships
- Access specialized labs equipped for advanced work
- Work in areas like Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, and AI
- Build presentation, publication, and collaborative experience
Collaborate across departments and industry partners. Pursue dissertation pathways aligned with your career goals.
Careers in Computing & Information Science
| Job titles | ||
|---|---|---|
| Research Scientist | Principal Engineer | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Data Scientist | Quantitative Researcher | Cybersecurity Architect |
The Ph.D. program maintains a structured annual progress review to support student success and ensure steady advancement toward degree completion.
- Complete a yearly progress report with your faculty advisor
- Document milestones, teaching outcomes, publications, and other achievements
- Reports are evaluated by the Doctoral Program Committee (DPC)
- DPC provides written feedback and identifies concerns
- Failure to submit required reports can result in advising holds, loss of funding, or dismissal from the program
Students who are dismissed may petition the DPC to reapply by submitting a written explanation to the program director by the specified deadlines.
The Maverick Difference
UNO’s OMA x AI Emphasizes Experimentation, Innovation, and Understanding
UNO’s second annual AI conference challenged its sold-out audience to experiment with the technology and discover new ways of ideating, thinking, learning, and creating.
Vidya Bommanapally, Honored as 2026 Nebraska Tech Innovator of the Year
Bommanapally was honored as Nebraska Tech Innovator of the Year for her early career promise and contributions to developing impactful technology.
UNO AI-CCORE Opens, Kicks Off with First Mav AI Day
The AI-CCORE Center hosted its first Mav AI Day, a public forum offering insights into artificial intelligence (AI) as well as its integration into top industries and the economic role the technology plays.
Have Questions? We're Here for You.
Connect with an advisor and explore ways to advance your career.
1Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics