Graduate program - admissions

Master of Science in Computer Science

I. Applicants must have at least a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics or other allied fields,which provide a substantial background in computing

II. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in at least one high-level programming language prescribed by the department's graduate committee

III. Applicants must have a general knowledge of Computer Science. This may include but is not limited to the following:

  • Data Structures and Algorithms
  • Theory of Computation
  • Discrete Mathematical Structures
  • Computer Networks
  • Database Systems
  • Software Engineering

IV. Applicants must get endorsement from one of the department's eight research laboratories

Master of Science in Bioinformatics

Program Requirements

I. The applicant must have a Bachelor’s (or higher) degree in a field related to Computing, Life or Physical Sciences, or allied fields from a recognized institution.

II. Must have taken the following foundational courses:

  • Calculus and Matrix Algebra (e.g. Stat 100, or its equivalent)
  • Probability and Statistics (e.g. Stat 195, or its equivalent)
  • Computational skills or experience familiar with at least one programming language
  • (e.g. CS 11/ES 26 or its equivalent)
  • Biochemistry (Chem 40 or its equivalent)
  • Introductory Biology (Bio 11 or its equivalent)

Admission Requirements

  • At least two recommendation letters from former professors and/or employers (at least one from a former professor) in support with your application. [NB: The application portal will provide the recommendation letter link, no need for a template]
  • Scanned official transcript of records of undergraduate (and graduate studies, if applicable) from all universities attended
  • Scanned PSA Birth Certificate (for Filipino applicants)
  • Scanned Passport data page (for foreign applicants)
  • Recent formal photo (preferrably passport photo)
  • An application fee of P100.00 for Filipino citizens, or $20.00 for resident foreign applicants to be paid through bank transfer or at the Cashier's OFfice, UP Diliman, Quezon City
  • For foreign applicants: Certification of English language proficiency - Official Test of English as a Foreign Language score report
  • Honorable Dismissal/Transfer Credentials for Non-UP Graduates

Diagnostic Exam

  • A diagnostic exam will be given after admission to students who may not have the appropriate undergraduate foundation courses.
  • The following undergraduate course topics are tested:
    • Calculus and Matrix Algebra (e.g. Stat 100, or its equivalent)
    • Probability and Statistics (e.g. Stat 195, or its equivalent)
    • Computational skills or experience familiar with at least one programming language (e.g. CS 11/ES 26 or its equivalent)
    • Biochemistry (Chem 40 or its equivalent)
    • Introductory Biology (Bio 11 or its equivalent)
  • The Program Committee may include these refresher subjects in the Program of Study as non-credit courses for students who failed the diagnostics tests for these respective undergraduate foundation courses. Students taking these courses are considered Non-Degree students.

Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science

I. Applicants must have a master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Mathematics, or other allied fields provided they have a substantial background in computing. Applicants must have a sufficient background in computing which includes the following -

  • Data Structures and Algorithms
  • Automata Theory
  • Discrete Mathematical Structures
  • Operating Systems
  • Computer Networks
  • Database Systems
  • Software Engineering

II. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in at least one high-level programming language prescribed by the department's graduate committee

III. Applicants must get endorsement from one of the department's eight research laboratories

For more information, email us at info*at* dcs.upd.edu.ph