Q&A: The path to a PhD in computational science and engineering at MIT
Emily Williams is set to become the first graduate of MIT's new PhD program in Computational Science and Engineering. The program, established in 2023, emphasizes interdisciplinary research and collaboration across various fields. Williams highlights the thoughtful curriculum and the opportunities for technical exploration as key benefits of her experience.
- ▪The Center for Computational Science and Engineering at MIT introduced a standalone PhD program in 2023.
- ▪Emily Williams, with a background in aerospace engineering and applied mathematics, is the first graduate of this program.
- ▪The program allows for a blend of coursework and research, fostering collaboration across different disciplines.
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| Original publisher | MIT News |
| Canonical URL | https://news.mit.edu/2026/qa-path-phd-computational-science-engineering-0520 |
| Publication time | Wed, 20 May 2026 15:40:00 -0400 |
| Retrieval time | 2026-05-20T19:50:02.964Z |
| Last seen | 2026-05-20T19:50:02.964Z |
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Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
MIT doctoral candidate Emily Williams reflects on her time at the Center for Computational Science and Engineering as she becomes the program’s first graduate. Amanda Diehl | MIT Schwarzman College of Computing Publication Date: May 20, 2026 Press Inquiries Press Contact: Amanda Diehl Email: [email protected] MIT Schwazman College of Computing Close Caption: Emily Williams defends her thesis on using stochastic and generative modeling for improving simulations of multiscale chaotic differential equations. Credits: Photo: Kate Nelson Previous image Next image In 2023, the Center for Computational Science and Engineering (CCSE), an academic unit in the MIT Schwarzman College of Computing, introduced a new standalone PhD degree program.
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