For many computer science students, graduate school can feel like the natural next step. But what does it really involve—and how do you know if it’s right for you? At a recent information session hosted by the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), faculty and advisors shared key insights to help students make informed decisions about applying to master’s or PhD programs in computer science
Understanding Graduate School
Graduate school offers the chance to deepen your expertise and contribute to new discoveries—but it’s also a major commitment. Above all, you should pursue graduate study because you genuinely enjoy academic work and research.
In computer science, a master’s degree typically focuses on coursework and applied skills, while a PhD is centered on independent research and original discovery. Master’s programs are often self-funded and designed for students looking to strengthen technical foundations, change fields, or gain additional experience before a PhD. By contrast, PhD students are generally funded by the institution through teaching or research assistantships. In essence, a PhD is a full-time research position within a university setting.
Master’s vs. PhD
A master’s degree typically takes one to two years and emphasizes structured coursework and applied skills. It’s ideal for students strengthening technical foundations, exploring new research areas, or pivoting to a different field. It can serve as a bridge for students exploring new research areas or pivoting to a new discipline
A PhD program, by contrast, is a full-time research endeavor that can take five to seven years. Students begin with coursework, then transition to independent research that contributes original knowledge to the field. PhD programs demand persistence, self-direction, and a genuine passion for discovery—rather than simply aiming for higher salaries or faster career growth.
Timing Your Application
When to apply depends on your personal and professional readiness.
Some students move directly from undergraduate study to graduate school, while others gain experience in industry first. Both paths offer advantages: working in industry can build real-world perspective, professional maturity, and communication skills, but transitioning back to the academic mindset can be challenging, and research experience is easier to gain while still in school. Staying in academia makes it easier to continue building research experience.
There is no universal rule about timing, but you are encouraged to apply when you feel ready to focus on research and commit to several years of study.
Finding the Right Adviser
Once you’ve decided to apply, identifying the right adviser is one of the most important steps. The quality of a graduate experience often depends more on the adviser than on the institution itself. A good adviser provides mentorship, research direction, and professional development support throughout the program. When evaluating graduate schools, applicants should identify potential advisers whose research aligns with their interests. Although a single great adviser suffices for a quality graduate education, applicants should strongly consider identifying other suitable option(s) as backups or for flexibility.
Reaching out to prospective advisers can be helpful, but emails should be thoughtful and specific. Demonstrating familiarity with a professor’s work and expressing genuine interest in related research areas makes outreach more effective than generic messages. Remember, your adviser will play a central role in shaping not just your research, but your overall graduate experience.
What Admissions Committees Value
Graduate admissions committees in computer science look for evidence of research potential. Grades in advanced and relevant coursework matter more than overall GPA, and meaningful research experience is often the most important factor in admission decisions.
Strong letters of recommendation—particularly from faculty who can comment on your research ability—carry significant weight. Letters that provide specific insight into creativity, analytical skills, or perseverance are far more valuable than general praise.
Writing the Personal Statement
A well-crafted statement of purpose should demonstrate intellectual curiosity and readiness for research. Instead of focusing on personal history or early interest in computers, applicants should describe research projects they have undertaken, what challenges they faced, and what they learned.
Your personal statement should also convey a sense of direction by highlighting research areas of interest and potential alignment with faculty at each program. However, it is best to avoid being overly specific about one project or professor, since research priorities often change. You can show focus and awareness without appearing rigid or presumptive.
Selecting Schools and Preparing Applications
Apply to a range of programs, not just the most selective ones. In computer science, excellent research and mentorship opportunities exist at universities of many types, including large public institutions and international programs. The key is to find departments with faculty whose work aligns with your interests and where you would be comfortable living and working for several years.
Applications typically include a statement of purpose, transcripts, a CV, and three letters of recommendation. Research experience and faculty endorsements remain the strongest indicators of potential success.
Letters of Recommendation
One exceptional research-based recommendation can make a significant difference. Ideally, letters should come from faculty who have directly supervised the student’s research and can comment in detail on their contributions. Two additional letters—often from instructors or other mentors—can complement the application even if they are less research-focused.
You should ask potential recommenders whether they feel able to write a strong letter, giving them an opportunity to decline if they cannot. Letters from industry professionals can be useful, particularly if the writer holds a PhD and understands academic research expectations.
Building Research Experience
Undergraduate research experience is one of the most valuable ways to prepare for graduate study. It will help you determine whether you will enjoy the process of investigation and provides tangible experience for applications. Research projects, whether through coursework, independent study, or internships, will allow you to develop persistence, analytical thinking, and creativity—all essential for success in graduate school.
Final Thoughts
Graduate study in computer science offers an opportunity to explore complex problems, advance the field, and contribute original research. It requires curiosity, independence, and a sustained commitment to learning.
You should approach the decision thoughtfully, considering their interests, motivations, and readiness for the challenges of graduate research. Success depends not only on strong academics but on finding the right environment, mentorship, and intellectual fit.
For those who are passionate about discovery and problem-solving, graduate school can be a deeply rewarding next step in your academic and professional journey.
