Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, based in Troy, New York offers a fully funded PhD in Computer Science. Emphasizing independent research in an area of specialization and working closely with one or more faculty advisors, students are required to complete at least 72 credits of advanced study above and beyond their undergraduate degree. Most CS graduate students receive financial support as teaching or research assistants. These assistantships provide both tuition and a stipend and guarantee funds for the duration of the Ph.D. studies. In addition, there are a limited number of fellowships for outstanding applicants.