Programme
Overview
A PhD in Computer Science provides graduates with unparalleled expertise and research skills,
opening doors to a diverse range of advanced and specialised career opportunities. Whether
pursuing a career in academia, industry, government, or entrepreneurship, PhD holders are
well-positioned to lead and innovate in their chosen fields. The emphasis on original research,
problem-solving, and technical depth ensures that graduates are equipped to tackle the most
challenging and cutting-edge issues in computer science.
Entry Requirements
i. A Master’s Degree [Level 7, Malaysian Qualifications
Framework (MQF)] in the field of Computing or related fields as
accepted by PU Senate; OR
ii. A Master’s Degree (Level 7, MQF) in non-Computing fields
with a minimum of FIVE (5) years of working experience in the
field of Computing or related fields must undergo appropriate
prerequisite courses as determined by PU; OR
iii. A Master’s Degree (Level 7, MQF) in non-Computing fields
with less than FIVE (5) years of working experience in the field of
Computing or related fields must undergo appropriate
prerequisite courses determined by PU and subject to rigorous
internal assessment; OR
iv. Other qualifications equivalent to a Master’s Degree in the
field of Computing or related fields recognised by the
Government of Malaysia must undergo appropriate
prerequisite courses as determined by PU.
English Language Requirements
International Students
IELTS 6.0 (Equivalent to CEFR Mid B2)
If a student does not meet this requirement, PU must offer
English proficiency courses to ensure that the student’s
proficiency is sufficient to meet the needs of the
programme.
Open Distance Learning (ODL)
Open Distance Learning (ODL) refers to the provision of flexible
learning opportunities in terms of access and various modes of
knowledge acquisition.
Curriculum Structure
Core Modules
All students must register and pass the
modules below:
Research Methods for Computer
Science
Quantitative Analysis
Research Specialisations
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Computer-Human Interface (HCI)
Software Engineering
Data Science and Analytics
Computer Networks and Security
Distributed Systems and Cloud Computing
Algorithms and Optimization
Computational Biology and Bioinformatics
Graphics and Computer Vision
Natural Language Processing (NLP)
Machine Learning
Other computing-related areas.
Education Pathway
Students who complete the PhD may pursue:
Postdoctoral Researcher
Role: Conduct advanced research under senior researchers’ mentorship,
publish papers, and develop research skills.
Prospects: Serves as a stepping stone to tenure-track academic
positions or advanced industry research roles.
Institutions: Universities, research labs, and government agencies
Career
Prospects
Academic Careers: Positions such as PhD candidates,
university lecturers, and researchers.
Industry Roles: Research engineers, data scientists,
AI specialists, software engineers, and more.
Consulting: Technology consultants providing expertise
on complex technical problems.
Entrepreneurship: Founding tech startups leveraging
advanced research.
