Best Computer Science Doctoral Programs

The National Research Council (NRC) ranking of the best Computer Science doctoral programs in the United States in 1995 represents a snapshot of the top institutions offering advanced training and research opportunities in the field of computer science. These rankings were based on a comprehensive evaluation of various criteria, including research productivity, faculty quality, and the impact of a program’s research output. As technology and the demands of the digital age were rapidly expanding in the mid-1990s, the competition among the leading computer science programs was intense, and the institutions that emerged at the top were regarded as the epicenters of innovation in the field.

At the forefront of the NRC’s 1995 rankings was Stanford University, which claimed the number one spot for its Computer Science doctoral program. Stanford’s position as the preeminent institution for computer science education was well-established by the mid-1990s, not just due to its academic rigor but also because of its proximity to Silicon Valley. The university’s unique relationship with the tech industry allowed students and faculty to engage with the rapidly evolving tech world, turning Stanford into a breeding ground for groundbreaking research and a pipeline for innovation. In particular, Stanford’s Computer Science department had a long history of excellence in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), algorithms, systems, and software engineering. The university’s emphasis on interdisciplinary work, fostering collaboration across various fields, and encouraging entrepreneurial endeavors provided an unparalleled environment for graduate students to thrive and make their mark on both academia and industry.

Following closely behind Stanford in the NRC rankings was the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), another powerhouse in the world of computer science. MIT's reputation for pioneering research and technological development in computer science dates back to the early days of the field, and the institution continued to maintain its position as one of the best and most influential programs for doctoral study in the mid-1990s. MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) played a crucial role in advancing research in AI, robotics, and machine learning, all of which were rapidly gaining importance as computing technology evolved. The program’s interdisciplinary focus, with opportunities for students to work at the intersection of computer science, engineering, and other scientific fields, ensured that MIT’s Ph.D. students were well-prepared to become leaders in both academia and the tech industry. MIT’s commitment to research, its robust funding, and its reputation for attracting brilliant faculty and students contributed to its high ranking in the NRC list.

The University of California, Berkeley, which took the third spot in the NRC 1995 ranking, was another institution at the cutting edge of computer science research. UC Berkeley’s Computer Science Division was well-regarded for its work in areas such as computer systems, networking, database management, and AI. Berkeley's faculty included some of the most influential names in the field, and its students regularly contributed to high-impact research that helped shape the evolution of computer science. Moreover, Berkeley had a strong emphasis on both theoretical and applied research, allowing students to pursue a wide range of interests while receiving a solid foundation in both theory and practice. The program’s collaborative spirit and proximity to Silicon Valley also enabled students to gain exposure to the tech industry, further enriching their educational experience.

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), ranked fourth, was another institution with a stellar reputation for computer science. Carnegie Mellon’s School of Computer Science was, and continues to be, one of the most distinguished computer science departments in the world. CMU's strength lies in its broad approach to the field, which spans areas such as software engineering, robotics, human-computer interaction, cybersecurity, and machine learning. In 1995, Carnegie Mellon was already known for its leadership in AI and robotics, and the university’s emphasis on both theoretical foundations and practical applications made it an ideal environment for students pursuing a Ph.D. in computer science. The program’s rigorous curriculum and its focus on producing well-rounded researchers prepared its students to contribute significantly to both the academic world and the tech industry.

Cornell University, which ranked fifth, also offered a top-tier doctoral program in computer science. By the mid-1990s, Cornell’s Computer Science Department had earned a reputation for its cutting-edge research in areas such as computer vision, programming languages, and computational theory. Cornell's emphasis on cross-disciplinary research allowed students to explore areas like cognitive science, electrical engineering, and mathematics, enriching their approach to computer science. The university’s strong faculty and commitment to providing students with ample research opportunities made it an attractive option for Ph.D. candidates looking to push the boundaries of the field.

Princeton University, ranked sixth, was another prestigious institution that offered a highly regarded computer science doctoral program. Princeton’s focus on theoretical computer science, including algorithms, cryptography, and computational complexity, was a hallmark of its program. The university’s small, tight-knit department offered an intimate academic environment where students could engage closely with faculty members who were leaders in their fields. Princeton’s emphasis on rigorous theoretical foundations ensured that students were well-equipped to tackle complex problems in computer science, whether in academia or industry.

The University of Texas at Austin, which ranked seventh, offered a comprehensive doctoral program in computer science that was highly respected by both industry and academia. The university’s research strength was particularly evident in areas such as software engineering, artificial intelligence, and systems. UT Austin’s growing reputation in the field, combined with its access to the vibrant tech ecosystem in Texas, made it an attractive destination for students pursuing a Ph.D. in computer science. The university’s focus on fostering innovation and providing students with the necessary resources to conduct groundbreaking research contributed to its position among the top programs in the country.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) took the eighth spot, a recognition of its well-established computer science program that had long been at the forefront of research and development in areas such as computer systems, algorithms, and computational theory. UIUC’s computer science department had earned a reputation for producing high-quality research in both the theoretical and applied aspects of computer science. The university’s collaborative environment, with strong ties to other departments such as electrical engineering, made it an ideal place for students interested in interdisciplinary research. UIUC’s global reputation for excellence in computer science continues to attract top students and faculty, ensuring that the program remains one of the best in the country.

The University of Washington, ranked ninth, was also a leader in computer science research, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and human-computer interaction. Washington’s computer science program was known for its strong faculty and its collaborative environment, which allowed students to work on groundbreaking projects that had real-world applications. The university’s strong ties to the tech industry, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, provided students with access to numerous internship and employment opportunities, further enhancing the value of a Ph.D. from the University of Washington.

Finally, the University of Wisconsin, which ranked tenth, rounded out the NRC’s top ten list of computer science doctoral programs. Wisconsin’s program was particularly noted for its research in areas such as databases, artificial intelligence, and computational biology. The university’s interdisciplinary approach, strong faculty, and commitment to providing students with the resources needed for advanced research made it an attractive option for aspiring computer science Ph.D. candidates.

NRC ranking of Best Computer Science Doctoral Programs in the US (Top 10 list):
1 Stanford University
2 Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
3 University of California–Berkeley
4 Carnegie Mellon University
5 Cornell University
6 Princeton University
7 University of Texas–Austin
8 University of Illinois–Urbana-Champaign
9 University of Washington
10 University of Wisconsin
Source: National Council Research 1995