Boston University

How this program compares

At an estimated $139.7K in total tuition, the PhD in Computer Engineering – Data Science & Intelligent Systems sits about 60% above the $87.2K average for AI doctoral programs in our database — placing it in the 81st percentile on cost among the 36 we track at this level. It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Applicants must hold a bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, electrical & computer engineering, mathematics, statistics, or a related computational field, with strong credentials in programming, algorithms, linear algebra, probability, and statistics. Exceptional letters of reference and demonstrated cross-disciplinary research potential are required.

About This Program

This doctoral program focuses on high-level research in the design and implementation of methodological approaches for computational and data-driven inquiry within the field of computer engineering. Coursework concentrates on Data Science & Intelligent Systems and Data Science & Analytics. Most students complete it in about 5 years.

It is one of 27 AI-related programs we track in Massachusetts, of which about 56% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 88% of the Massachusetts programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $58.9K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Research Scientist, with reported salaries around $140,000.

Design and implement scalable algorithms for large-scale data processing and intelligent systems.

At roughly $139.7K total, Boston University's PhD in Computer Engineering – Data Science & Intelligent Systems sits above the $87.2K average among AI doctoral programs we track — the 81st percentile on price. Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Boston University's PhD in Computer Engineering – Data Science & Intelligent Systems most often target AI Research Scientist roles, where reported compensation runs around $140,000. Its focus on Data Science & Intelligent Systems and Data Science & Analytics maps directly to how employers in engineering ai screen for specialized skills rather than generic degrees. Federal projections for this occupational area point to roughly 36% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Machine Learning Research Scientist
• 2. Data Systems Architect
• 3. AI/Intelligent Systems Engineer
• 4. Computational Research Professor

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement scalable algorithms for large-scale data processing and intelligent systems.
• Conduct advanced statistical inference and predictive modeling using machine learning techniques.
• Optimize computational systems for data-intensive applications in engineering contexts.
• Perform original research integrating data science with computer engineering principles.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum includes breadth and depth coursework, participation in research rotations, a teaching practicum, and the defense of an original dissertation based on novel engineering research.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, and research institutions like national labs and universities.

Admissions

Admission to Boston University's PhD in Computer Engineering – Data Science & Intelligent Systems generally expects a bachelor's or master's in related field. The GRE is optional here — a growing norm among AI programs — so applicants can often lead with coursework, projects and recommendations instead. Deadlines, testing policies and funding change year to year, so confirm the current requirements on the official program page before applying.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions