Carnegie Mellon University

Why Choose the S3D Software Engineering Ph.D. Program?

Transform the Future of Software Systems--And Your Career

Software engineering sits at the heart of today's technological revolution, driving innovation in every field imaginable. At Carnegie Mellon's S3D Ph.D. program, you'll do more than just study software--you'll pioneer groundbreaking research that shapes the future of reliable, intelligent, and secure software systems. You've earned an admission offer from us because we see in you the potential to become a trailblazer in software engineering. Now, let us show you why accepting this offer is the smartest decision you'll make for your career.

Unparalleled Research Opportunities at the Cutting Edge

At S3D, you'll be at the forefront of software engineering research, tackling complex, real-world challenges like:

  • Self-Healing and Adaptive Systems: Develop software that intelligently adapts, repairs, and evolves to thrive in unpredictable environments.
  • Security and Trustworthiness: Create robust software solutions that protect against threats and ensure safety even in adversarial conditions.
  • Privacy and Ethical Computing: Investigate technologies that balance data-driven innovation with respect for individual privacy and societal implications.
  • Empowering Programmers and Users: Innovate tools and methodologies that make powerful programming capabilities accessible to everyone, democratizing tech innovation.

Learn From the Best — Renowned Faculty and Mentorship

Our faculty are globally recognized experts committed to mentoring the next generation of software engineering leaders. At S3D, you'll work directly with professors who:

  • Lead groundbreaking interdisciplinary projects with top industry partners.
  • Publish influential research that defines the future of software engineering.
  • Provide personalized guidance, ensuring you develop deep expertise in your chosen research area.

Proven Alumni Success — Your Future Starts Here

Our alumni are changing the world through academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. Just look at the transformative impact recent graduates have achieved:

  • Mauricio Soto, Ph.D., a Senior ML R&D Engineer at Hitachi Energy, develops AI-powered software solutions that enhance the reliability and efficiency of critical infrastructure.
  • Jenna DiVincenzo, Ph.D., now an Assistant Professor at Purdue University, continues pioneering verification technologies that began in her time at CMU, shaping safer, more dependable software.

When you join S3D, you'll become part of a distinguished network of industry leaders, scholars, and innovators who are defining software engineering's future.

Exceptional Career Outcomes — Open Doors to Unlimited Opportunities

An S3D Ph.D. equips you with versatile, highly sought-after skills. Whether your passion leads you toward academia, industry research, or entrepreneurial endeavors, our graduates consistently achieve remarkable career trajectories:

  • Academic Leadership: Secure prestigious faculty positions at top research institutions, driving influential research and mentoring future technologists.
  • Industry Influence: Apply your advanced research directly to impactful industry projects, shaping products and services at leading companies in AI, systems engineering, and software verification.
  • Entrepreneurial Innovation: Launch and lead tech startups that translate groundbreaking research into transformative applications and businesses.

Comprehensive Funding and Support — Investing in Your Success

We understand that pursuing a Ph.D. is a significant commitment. At S3D, we alleviate financial concerns through generous funding packages, including:

  • Guaranteed research and teaching assistantships covering tuition and living expenses.
  • Access to grants for research travel, conferences, and collaborations.
  • Supportive resources to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, promoting both academic excellence and personal well-being.

A Collaborative and Dynamic Community — You Belong Here

Joining S3D means becoming part of a vibrant, supportive community of students, faculty, and alumni dedicated to responsible excellence in all the ways that matter. Here, you'll collaborate with peers from many backgrounds, expand your professional network, and build lifelong connections.

Your Future in Software Engineering Starts Here

At Carnegie Mellon's S3D Software Engineering Ph.D. program, you'll receive unparalleled mentorship, engage in cutting-edge research, and build a career with lasting impact. Join a community dedicated to pioneering innovation, rigorous scholarship, and real-world solutions.

Don't settle for just any Ph.D.—choose the program that empowers you to shape the future of software systems.