Dr. Frank Pfenning

Professor

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Biography

Frank Pfenning studied mathematics and computer science at the Technical University of Darmstadt and earned his Ph.D. in Mathematics in 1987 under the supervision of Peter Andrews. He joined the Computer Science Department at Carnegie Mellon University, where he became a professor in 2002. Over the years, Pfenning has served in various roles, including director of graduate programs and associate dean for graduate education. He was the head of the Computer Science Department from 2013 to 2018. His academic career also includes visiting appointments at the Max-Planck-Institute for Computer Science and the École Polytechnique. Pfenning has advised 29 Ph.D. students and received the Herbert Simon Award for Teaching Excellence in 2002. He is a Fellow of the ACM, and his research interests encompass programming languages, logic, type theory, logical frameworks, automated deduction, and computer security. Additionally, he has chaired various committees and is involved in multiple editorial boards.

Research Interests

Requirements for Carnegie Mellon University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
GRE General
Verbal
Required:158
Quantitative
Required:149
Analytical Writing
Required:4
Overall
Required:4
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Psychology or related field Research experience/publications
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • GRE scores (optional but reported in profile)
  • English Proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo)
Specialization Notes

Admission is extremely competitive with no strict GPA cut-offs; holistic review is used.