Typical entry requirements includeincludes master's degrees in computer science or a related field. The degree is intended for those who will make meaningful contributions to either the theory or practice of computing and as such involves both research and taught courses beyond [[master's degree]] level.<ref name=CollegeAtlas/> Applied doctorates such as the DCS are aimed at practitioners with professional careers in the field rather than at those aiming for research careers in academia.<ref name=AppDoc>{{cite web|url=http://www.coloradotech.edu/resources/white-papers/september-2014/doctorate-guide|title= Ph.D. or Applied Doctorate - Not all Doctoral Degrees are a Ph.D.|date=2014-09-23|accessdate=2017-04-19|publisher=[[Colorado Technical University]]}}</ref> The DCS is normally completed in three years, with a split of approximately two years of coursework and one year equivalent (36 credits out of a total of 96) spent on the dissertation.<ref name=DCS>{{cite web|url=http://coloradotech.smartcatalogiq.com/2016/Catalog/Degree-Programs/Doctoral/Doctor-of-Computer-Science|title=Doctor of Computer Science|work=Smart Catalog|publisher=[[Colorado Technical University]]|accessdate=2017-04-18}}</ref>
