Where is possible for CS PhD?

[GLaDOS]

I'm interested in doing a CS PhD on robotics, especially biomimetic robotics (really interested in the control side). Thing is, I don't have a CS degree. I minored in it, but I'm finishing a bio major right now. I have a 3.9 GPA and 4 years research experience, but mostly doing human experiments. I did do an internship in a robotics lab, but the work I did there was not really robotics (it looked at using robotics algorithms to understand human skill learning).

So I'm wondering if I have any chance at good PhDs. Right now I'm really interested in Harvard, since they seem to be doing cool stuff with non-traditional approaches to robotics, but I don't know if I'd stand any chance of getting in. Also probably a bad idea to get obsessed with one "dream" school. Do I have a shot there? Where else might be a good fit that I could get in? Thanks!

Edited June 17, 2016 by GLaDOS

[emmm]

You haven't really shared enough information for people to even speculate about your chances -- and all it would be is speculation, at best. Your applications would need to include the very important LORs and personal statement, which matter quite a bit more, generally, that just the GPA.

If you are worried about not having a CS degree -- I will be starting in a PhD program in the fall without a prior CS degree (though I did do quite a lot of relevant coursework). So, it is possible, but you should contact programs you're interested in to see what advice they may be willing to share with you and talk to some of your former professors as well. In addition to providing LORs, they may be able to introduce you to colleagues who might be able to advise you better than we can.

[GLaDOS]

What other info would be useful to help with speculation? I'm pretty sure I'd have really strong LORs, including one from a director of a prestigious European robotics research group. I'm also a pretty good writer, so I think I can put together a convincing personal statement.

It's nice to hear of someone who's managed do make the jump, though. How do you think you were able to do it?