Direct Doctorate in Computer Science
Our goal is to educate students to become researchers and future leaders in computer science. The Direct Doctorate in Computer Science comprises course and research work. It allows exceptionally well-qualified students holding a Bachelor's degree to join the doctorate programme at the Department of Computer Science.
The programme is tailored to the needs of students aiming at a career in research and interested in pursuing a doctoral degree at ETH Zurich. The Direct Doctorate enables students to explore a wide range of areas in computer science and to become acquainted with the different groups at the department prior to the selection of a topic and a supervisor for the doctoral dissertation.
Students in this programme are entitled to financial support and tuition waivers in the form of a full scholarship during the first two study years and, thereafter, to a competitive salary that covers living expenses in Switzerland. Typically, the completion of the Direct Doctorate takes 5 to 6 years.
The first two years of the programme provide students with advanced methodological and conceptual knowledge in computer science that goes beyond today's state of the art and prepares students for scientific forerunner roles. The studies are structured similarly to a Master's degree, which students obtain upon completion of the credit requirements. Students can choose from a variety of fundamental and elective courses. During the second part of the Direct Doctorate in Computer Science, students focus on their doctoral research and the completion of the dissertation.
Important Information about the Application Process:
Direct Doctorate applicants use the same application tool as master's applicants. Application information can be found here, and the specific requirements for the Direct Doctorate here (see Computer Science MSc). During the application process, you indicate that your application is for the Direct Doctorate Programme. It is, therefore, possible not to be admitted to the Direct Doctorate Programme, but for the Master’s Programme in Computer Science. However, the application cannot be considered for ESOP simultaneously.
Note that applications not submitted as outlined above will not be considered.
Contact
ETH Zurich
Department of Computer Science
Universitätstrasse 6
CAB H 37.1
8092
Zurich
The Direct Doctorate: A unique opportunity for top international undergraduates
The Direct Doctorate in Computer Science was developed to draw talented undergraduates from all over the world. Six years after welcoming its first two enrolees, the programme now receives more than 100 applications every year. Students and professors testify that direct access to doctoral studies and the great atmosphere at ETH Zurich are large parts of its success.