The 72 s.h. required for the Ph.D. includes 9-12 s.h. in foundations of informatics and at least 9 s.h. in disciplinary applications of informatics. Other course requirements are outlined in the curriculum specific to each subprogram.

Students select an advisor from their subprogram's affiliated faculty members. In consultation with their advisors, students prepare a study plan, which is reviewed by their mentors and curricular advisory committees at least once a year.

Ph.D. students must pass a comprehensive examination at or near completion of their course work requirements. The exam may be written, oral, or both, depending on the structure of the student's subprogram or the decision of the student's committee.