Frequently Asked Questions PhD Program

What kind of background does one need to apply?

Applicants with a baccalaureate degree in one of the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields are encouraged to apply.

Does the CSRC offer any financial assistance for application fees?

At this time the CSRC is not offering any assistance waiving application fees.

How does the joint PhD program work?

Students must have an advisor from one university and a co-advisor from the other university.

First year: Students attend SDSU,

Second year: Students attend UCI.

After the second year: Students attend the university where the primary advisor is a faculty member.

How do you select a research advisor in this PhD program?

A. Before you apply you need to identify possible advisors from the program faculty list
https://www.csrc.sdsu.edu/ph-d-program/program-faculty/

B. Reach out to those faculty you identify as possible advisors, and state your interest in working on your PhD under their supervision. Request an interview about your research interest, and find out more about the faculty research topics. Ask about their interest in supervising your research.

C. List the names of the faculty who responded positively about considering you as their student in your application.

Is there a GRE Requirement for this program?

The GRE assesment is required, but there is no particular score required to join the program. It is still encouraged to score well on the GRE assesment.