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Doctor of Phi​losophy​ (Ph.D.) in Information Systems

(R/0611/8/0015) (03/28) (MQA/SWA9117)
​


Introduction

Are you passionate about leveraging technology to drive innovation and solve complex problems? Pursuing a PhD in Information Systems offers a transformative opportunity to become a leading expert in this dynamic field. Whether you're a recent graduate eager to dive deeper into the realm of digital transformation or a seasoned professional seeking to advance your career, our program provides a rigorous yet rewarding journey. With opportunities to conduct groundbreaking research, collaborate with industry leaders, and make tangible impacts on society, a PhD in Information Systems equips you with the skills and knowledge to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape while shaping the future of technology and business.

Our programme is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Framework (MQF).

Programme Objectives

PEO1 Information systems experts who are competent with a firm grounding in information technology fields to foster research and development of new knowledge in the information systems field.
PEO2 Information systems  experts who lead in their areas of expertise and are able to communicate convincingly and interact effectively with stakeholders.
PEO3 Information systems experts who engage and advocate lifelong learning activities and have an entrepreneurial mindset.
PEO4 Information systems  expert who upholds and defends ethical conduct and professional practices and issues in advancing the profession while maintaining integrity.​


Programme Outcomes


PLO 1​​ Integrate state-of-art knowledge through a systematic comprehension and in-depth understanding of the information systems field.
PLO 2 Develop original research work that broadens the boundary of knowledge through an in-depth thesis that has been presented and defended according to HEP standards;
PLO 3 Develop innovative information systems solutions that stand the tests of applicability, efficiency and effectiveness;
PLO 4 Demonstrate effective interaction with peers, scholarly communities and society of diverse audiences through participation in discourses related to the information systems field.
PLO 5 Exhibit effective communication with peers, scholarly communities and society of diverse audiences by publishing and presenting technical materials in the information systems fields.
PLO 6 Utilise appropriate digital tools to acquire, interpret and extend knowledge in information systems;
PLO 7 Apply appropriate numerical techniques to acquire, interpret and extend knowledge in  information systems;
PLO 8 Demonstrate leadership, teamwork, autonomy and responsibility in conducting research based on information systems theoretical framework;
PLO 9 Exhibit capabilities to extend relevant knowledge through life-long learning;
PLO 10
 Exhibit capabilities to have an entrepreneurial mindset related to the information systems field.
PLO 11 Uphold professional and ethical practices in conducting research and delivering solutions related to the information systems field.


Programme Highlights

Research Areas
1. Data Analytics and Business Intelligence
2. Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
3. Cloud Computing and Big Data Technologies
4. Enterprise Systems and Informatics
5. Blockchain Technology
6. Artificial intelligence applications in information systems
7. Information Governance and Compliance
8. Fintech, E-Commerce and E-Business
9. Human-computer interaction (HCI) and user experience (UX)
10. Information Systems Strategy and Management.

* Note: The list of areas is non-exhaustive and merely popular areas in UTP. Speak to your potential supervisor to refine your research ideas.

Programme Details

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​Department:  Computer and Information Sciences Department  

Intakes: January and July

Mode of Deliverance: Research and thesis.​

Entry Requirements​
i. A Master's Degree (Level 7 MQF) in computing or related to computing, or equivalent qualification recognised by the University Senate.
ii. At least one earlier degree in Computing or related or 5 years working experience in a relevant field.
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Apel.A field:

UTP accepts APEL A (Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning) for admission for PhD program admissions.

On what APEL A is, please refer to https://www2.mqa.gov.my/apel/​  

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English Requirements
• A minimum TOEFL score of 550; or
• A minimum IELTS score of Band 6.0; or
• A minimum Malaysian University English Test (MUET) score of Band 4

However, this requirement is waived if student;
• have obtained Bachelor / Master or other relevant degree from Malaysian recognised institution whereby all courses are fully conducted in English or;
• a native of an English speaking countries or;
• graduated from English speaking countries institutions

​ Pre-requisite courses
Students to enrol in Engineering/ Engineering Technology & Computing programmes but having qualification from different disciplines must undergo pre-requisite courses.
Pre-requisite courses for this program are Software Engineering and Object-Oriented Programming.
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Estimated Total Cost Fee

​​​MALAYSIA​N  ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

Research Progression Fees

 ​
​		 PhD (RM) 
​  
   Full Time Part Time
​ ​​Annually  ​ ​ ​
Information Systems  ​
   8,000 1,200
Semester Fee  (Annual Amount)     2,400 1,200
​
 ​​One Time   ​ ​ ​
Research Methodology     1,500 1,500
Examination & Viva (Final Semester)     1,500 1,500

​​​INTERNATIO​​NAL​ ​ ​ ​

 

Research Progression Fees

  ​
​		 PhD (RM) ​
​ ​   Full Time Part Time
​ ​​Annually  ​ ​ ​
Information Systems     8,000 1,200
Semester Fee  (Annual Amount)     2,400 1,200
​ ​​One Time   ​ ​ ​
Research Methodology     1,500 1,500
Examination & Viva (Final Semester)     1,500 1,500

Dual Degree Programme ​

At the postgraduate level, UTP has facilitated dual degree opportunities through specific arrangements. Please visit UTP page on international collaborative programme.​

Programme Curriculum Structure and Programme Module Synopsis

         
The PhD in Information Systems program at Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) is a research-intensive program culminating in a thesis. The program is designed to develop experts capable of conducting independent research and generating innovative solutions in Information Systems.

Various research areas in the field of Information System are eligible for the program. These areas are supported by faculty members specializing in the topic. It is advisable to contact your potential supervisor in UTP directly to seek guidance tailored to your research interest and academic goals. Visit UTP Directories​ to search for your potential supervisor.

The program has a duration of 3 to 8 years for full-time or 4 to 10 years for part-time studies. Students are assigned academic supervisors who guide them throughout the research process. The selection of a supervisor is based on the student's research interests and the expertise available within the faculty. 

All postgraduate students are required to complete and pass a compulsory research methodology course. This course is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to conduct rigorous and ethical research.

Research Proposal Defense (RPD) is a critical component of the postgraduate research process. It serves as a formal evaluation where students present their proposed research plans to a panel of examiners, including their supervisors and other faculty members. The primary objectives of the RPD are to assess the feasibility, originality, and scientific merit of the proposed research, as well as to ensure that the research methodology is robust and appropriate for the study.

During the candidacy, a student will prepare a progress paper every semester for evaluation by the supervisor and a faculty member. The student will present the progress at the Biannual Postgraduate Conference (BAPC) at UTP. BAPC is a semi-annual conference-style assessment which allows students to gain experience in presenting their research findings, receive constructive feedback, and engage with peers and faculty members in a formal setting. 

A significant component of the program is the completion of a thesis. This thesis must demonstrate the student's ability to conduct independent research, contribute new knowledge to the field, and adhere to academic standards.
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Research Attachment
UTP's PhD programmes encourage collaboration with external research groups, universities, and industries.
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Career Prospects
Graduates of the PhD in Information Systems programme from Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) can pursue diverse and rewarding career paths in academia, industry, and research. 

Some of the potential career prospects include:
1. Academic Careers
• University Professor/Lecturer: Teach and mentor students in information systems and related fields.
• Academic Researcher: Conduct research and publish findings in prestigious journals, contributing to the body of knowledge in information systems.
2. Research and Development (R&D)
• Research Scientist: Work in R&D organizations or think tanks, developing innovative technologies and methodologies.
• Postdoctoral Fellow: Pursue advanced research projects in collaboration with global academic and industry leaders.
3. Industry Roles
• Chief Information Officer (CIO): Oversee an organization's IT strategies and align them with business goals.
• Data Scientist/Analyst: Analyse and interpret complex data to inform business decisions.
• Cybersecurity Specialist: Design and implement security measures to protect organizational data.
4. Consulting
• IT Consultant: Advise organizations on how to use technology to meet business objectives.
• Digital Transformation Consultant: Guide businesses through integrating digital technologies to improve processes and services.
5. Technology and Innovation Leadership
• Product Manager: Lead the development of cutting-edge software or technology solutions.
• Innovation Manager: Drive technological innovation within an organization or startup.
6. Public Sector and Nonprofits
• Policy Advisor: Develop policies related to technology, cybersecurity, or digital governance.
• Technology Strategist: Work with governments or nonprofits to leverage technology for societal benefits.
7. Entrepreneurship
• Startup Founder: Launch technology-based ventures in areas such as data analytics, cybersecurity, or artificial intelligence.
• Technology Innovator: Develop and commercialize unique technological solutions to solve industry problems.
8. Specialised Roles
• Business Intelligence Analyst: Create insights from data to drive strategic decisions.
• System Architect: Design and oversee the implementation of complex IT systems.

Contact

Programme Manager
Ts. Dr. Yew Kwang Hooi
Email: yewkwanghooi@utp.edu.my
Direct Line: +6053687508

Academic Executive
Ms Fathiah Ruhana Zainonfetry
​Direct Line: +6053687370

General Inquiries
Ms Nurul Asmira Sulaiman
Email: asmira.sulaiman@utp.edu.my
Direct Line: +6053688192


FAQ​​

1. What is the application process for the PhD in Information Systems?
Prospective students should submit an online application through the university's admission portal, providing academic transcripts, a research proposal, letters of recommendation, and proof of English language proficiency. Specific details can be found on the university's official website.

2. Are scholarships or financial aid options available for PhD students?
Many institutions offer scholarships, grants, or assistantships to qualified PhD students. It's advisable to check the university's financial aid section or contact the admissions office for detailed information on available funding opportunities.

3. What facilities and resources are available to support research during the PhD program?
Universities typically provide access to advanced laboratories, research centers, libraries, and online databases. For example, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS has research institutes such as the Institute of Emerging Digital Technologies (EDiT) that focus on areas relevant to Information Systems.

4. Is it possible to pursue the PhD program on a part-time basis while working?
Yes, many institutions offer part-time enrollment options to accommodate working professionals. However, it's important to consider the time commitment required for doctoral research and discuss scheduling options with the program coordinator.

5. What is the process for selecting a research supervisor?
After admission, students are typically assigned a supervisor based on their research interests. It's beneficial to review faculty profiles and research areas beforehand to identify potential supervisors. Contact information for program leaders is usually available on the university's website.

For the most accurate and detailed information, it's advisable to consult the specific university's official website or contact their admissions office directly.

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