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Earn a STEM-Designated PhD at Harrisburg University: Doctoral Opportunities for International Students
For international students looking to pursue an advanced degree in the United States, choosing the right doctoral program involves more than selecting a field of study. Students are often looking for programs that combine rigorous academics, research opportunities, professional development, and a structure that allows them to apply what they learn in real-world settings.
Through an expanded collaboration between Howell Management Services (HMS) and Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU), international students now have access to additional doctoral opportunities in high-demand STEM and technology-related fields.
HMS is now promoting and processing applications for Harrisburg University's doctoral programs, creating new opportunities for international students seeking advanced education in data science, computational science, engineering, and information systems.
Doctoral Programs at Harrisburg University
Harrisburg University offers the following doctoral programs through HMS:
PhD in Data Sciences
The PhD in Data Sciences is a research-focused doctoral program designed to prepare students to conduct independent research and solve practical problems by applying data science principles across diverse fields and industries.
PhD in Computational Science and Engineering
The PhD in Computational Science and Engineering is an interdisciplinary program focused on the intersection of computational science and engineering. Students develop the knowledge and research skills needed to address complex problems across a range of sectors and contribute to emerging areas of scientific and technological innovation.
PhD in Information Systems Engineering and Management
The PhD in Information Systems Engineering and Management focuses on developing new theories, concepts, and applications within information systems engineering and management. The program prepares students for careers as researchers and academics while contributing new knowledge to the field.
STEM-Designated Doctoral Programs
The three PhD programs are STEM-designated, providing international students with the opportunity to pursue doctoral study in fields closely connected to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
STEM designation can be an important consideration for international students evaluating U.S. graduate programs, particularly those planning careers in technology, research, data science, engineering, and related fields.
A Doctoral Program That Connects Academics With Practical Experience
One of the distinguishing features of the Harrisburg University doctoral programs is the integration of practical training into the academic curriculum.
Practical training is an integral component of the curriculum because it gives students the opportunity to apply theories, concepts, and methods learned through their academic coursework in professional settings directly related to their field of study.
Rather than separating academic learning from professional experience, the curriculum creates an ongoing cycle of:
Learning → Application → Reflection → Further Learning
Classroom instruction prepares students to engage meaningfully in professional practice, while practical experience provides real-world context that can enhance classroom discussions, research, case analyses, and other academic work.
Students can also bring observations and experiences from their professional environments back into their academic work, allowing them to evaluate real-world challenges through the academic frameworks and concepts introduced in their courses.
Developing Skills Beyond the Classroom
Practical experience can also help doctoral students develop and demonstrate competencies that cannot be fully developed through classroom instruction alone, including:
Problem solving
Professional judgment
Communication
Collaboration
Application of discipline-specific knowledge
Real-world analysis and decision-making
Faculty oversight, reflection, assessment, and academic assignments connect the practical experience to established course and program learning outcomes.
For international students, this creates an opportunity to connect advanced academic study with relevant professional experience while developing the skills needed to contribute to their chosen field.
Program Format and Tuition
The doctoral programs are structured for students seeking an advanced degree while maintaining a connection to professional practice.
Program highlights include:
3+ year programs
$5,730 per semester
One weekend on campus per semester
STEM designation for the three PhD programs
Practical training integrated into the curriculum
The combination of advanced academic study, research, and practical application makes these programs an option for international students seeking a doctoral education with a strong connection to professional practice.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for the PhD programs align with Harrisburg University's master's admission requirements, with a minimum 3.3 GPA required for doctoral admission.
A master's degree in a related field is not required for admission. Students whose previous degree is in an unrelated field may be required to complete additional prerequisite coursework.
Upon acceptance, students receive a study plan outlining the total credits required to complete their degree, including any prerequisite coursework that may apply.
Visit https://www.howellmgmt.com/day1cptuniversities/harrisburguniversity/ms-admissions for more information.
January 2027 Intake
The next intake for the Harrisburg University doctoral programs will be January 2027.
International students interested in starting a PhD in Data Sciences, Computational Science and Engineering, or Information Systems Engineering and Management should begin the application process early to allow sufficient time for admission and immigration processing.
Interested in a PhD at Harrisburg University?
If you are an international student considering a doctoral degree in a STEM or technology-related field, Harrisburg University offers several options that combine advanced academic study with practical professional application.
To learn more about the programs or begin the application process, visit https://www.howellmgmt.com/day1cptuniversities/harrisburguniversity
