This study explores how a large online master’s program in computer science prepares graduates for STEM PhD programs. By analyzing enrollment data, surveys, and interviews, the research highlights the program’s positive impact on alumni PhD experiences. Key findings include the importance of graduate research and coursework in PhD preparation. The results demonstrate that affordable, online, asynchronous programs can effectively support non-traditional students in pursuing doctoral education.
@inproceedings{deng2026sigcse,title={Exploring Transitions of Graduates From an Online Master's in Computer Science Program to Doctoral Programs},author={Deng, Patrick and Greenhalgh, Alexander D. and Yu, Brian and Lytle, Nicholas and Joyner, David A.},year={2026},booktitle={Proceedings of the 57th ACM Technical Symposium on Computer Science Education (SIGCSE 2026)},publisher={ACM},doi={10.1145/3770762.3772654},url={https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/3770762.3772654},}