Choosing a Ph.D. program in computer science
Rachel A. Pottinger · XRDS Crossroads The ACM Magazine for Students · 1999
Applying to a Ph.D. program can be a very confusing and overwhelming process.I first learned this when I applied two years ago and was recently reminded as a member of my department's prospective students committee.To help others, I have put together an overview of the process.This reference is primarily for people interested in Ph.D. programs, and all costs are as of 1999.The most useful advice for people deciding whether or not to go to grad school can be found in Advice for undergraduates considering graduate school by Phil Agre.It covers getting research experience and also deciding whether or not to go to grad school.I defer to it on these topics.My discussion focuses on the application process, but first I will discuss the basics of Ph.D. programs.