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

(R3/482/8/0174) (02/30) (​A8422)

​​Introd​uction
The PhD in Information Technology (IT) in Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS offers a unique opportunity for highly motivated individuals to conduct cutting-edge research in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science. Guided by renowned faculty with extensive research experience, doctoral candidates will engage in independent research projects, develop innovative solutions to complex IT challenges, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field. Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for successful careers in academia, research institutions, and leading technology companies​​.


Programme Objectives

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

Programme Outcomes

1. Information technology experts who are competent with a firm grounding in information technology fields to foster research and development of new knowledge in the information technology field. 
2. Information technology experts who lead in their areas of expertise and are able to communicate convincingly and interact effectively with stakeholders.
3. Information technology experts who engage and advocate lifelong learning activities and have an entrepreneurial mindset. 
4. Information technology experts who uphold and defend ethical conduct and professional practices and issues in advancing the profession while maintaining integrity.​

Programme Highlights


The PhD in IT programme is designed to cultivate independent researchers and thought leaders, pushing the boundaries of information technology. A central highlight is the programme's strong emphasis on original research, encouraging students to explore novel solutions to complex IT challenges. Students delve into specialised research areas that contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their chosen fields. Those areas are:

- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
- Cyber Security
- Governance, Risk & Compliance
- Software Engineering
- Cloud Computing
- Big Data
- Digital Innovations and Transformation
- Enterprise Systems
- Immersive Technologies
- Digital Twin
- Image Processing & Computer Vision
- Human-Computer Interaction

The programme fosters a collaborative research environment, providing access to state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities to work alongside experienced faculty members. The programme encourages students to undertake research and industrial attachments with partners such as PETRONAS and collaborate with other universities. The PhD in IT programme at UTP prepares graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, and leadership roles in industry, where they can drive innovation and shape the future of information technology.

Programme Details

Department:  ​Computer and Information Sciences

Intakes: January, May, and September

Mode of Study and Duration:
Full Time (Min: 36 months Max: 96 months)​
Part Time (Min: 48 months Max: 120 months)​


Entry Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s Engineering Degree or any relevant field from a recognised university with a CGPA of 2.50 - 2.74 or its equivalent OR;
  • Bachelor’s Engineering Degree or any relevant field from a recognised university with a CGPA of 2.00 - 2.49 or its equivalent will require 5 years of working experience and internal rigorous assessment


Apel.A field

  • Asset and Maintenance Management

English Requirements:
  • A minimum TOEFL score of 500 or equivalent
  • A minimum IELTS score of 5.0 or equivalent
  • Native English speakers or holding a degree with English as the medium of instruction may be exempted from this requirement
Pre-requisite courses:
Bachelor’s Degree from non-engineering relevant will have to take pre-requisite courses as below:
  • Object-oriented Programming
  • Software Engineering
It will be conducted 100% online

Career Prospects
Data Scientist
Academician
IT Researcher
Software Engineer
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cloud Computing Specialist
Network Engineer
Database Administrator
Systems Analyst
IT Manager
Project Manager
Systems Architect




Contact Information

Programme Leader
Ts. Dr. Khairul Shafee Bin Kalid
Email: khairulshafee_kalid@utp.edu.my
Direct Line: +6053687472

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

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



FAQs

What are the available specializations within the MSc in IT? 
There is no specialization but students can do research in the area of Cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence, cloud computing and other fields that relates to IT.
 
Are there opportunities for industry collaborations and internships in the IT industry?
Yes. Student may discuss with their supervisors on any potential industry collaborations and internships
 
Does the program have access to industry-standard software and tools?
Yes. Current students are using software and tools such as Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure and others for their research.
 
What are the available research facilities and laboratories? 
We have computer labs, networking labs, data analytic labs and others for the students to use for their research

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