PhD Computing

PhD Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Prospective PhD applicants are expected to hold a taught Masters degree in a relevant subject area. The university typically requires a minimum of 65% as the standard for academic performance in the completed Masters program.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS Requirement: An overall IELTS score of 6.5 or 7.0 is required, with no individual band score falling below 6.0.
• TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 92 on the TOEFL is accepted, with no sub-score in any section falling below 20.
• PTE Requirement: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 59.

Students must provide:

• Academic marksheets & transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• A personal statement - SOP
• Passport
• Other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some PhD courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Abertay University offers several types of scholarships for international Ph.D. students, each with its own criteria and benefits. 

Merit-Based Scholarships: Awards based on academic excellence, research potential, and achievements. Merit-based scholarships aim to attract high-achieving students to contribute to the university's research community.

Research-Specific Scholarships: Some scholarships are dedicated to students undertaking research in specific fields. These may align with the university's strategic research priorities or emerging academic disciplines.

Partnership Scholarships: Collaborative initiatives between Abertay University and external partners may result in specific scholarships. These aim to strengthen ties with organizations, industries, or governments.

Graduates of Abertay University's PhD in Computing program are equipped with advanced skills and knowledge that open doors to diverse and influential career opportunities within the rapidly evolving field of computing.

Research and Development (R&D) Leadership: PhD holders can pursue leadership roles in research and development, becoming heads of R&D departments in tech companies, research institutions, or government agencies. They lead innovative projects, contribute to technological advancements, and shape the future of computing through cutting-edge research.

Academic and Research Positions: Many graduates choose to contribute to academia, becoming professors, researchers, or lecturers in universities and research institutions. They advance the academic understanding of computing, mentor the next generation of computer scientists, and lead research projects at the forefront of the industry.

Data Science and Analytics: With a focus on data science, graduates may pursue careers in data analysis, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. They can work for data-driven companies, analytics firms, or as consultants, applying their expertise to extract meaningful insights from complex datasets.

Cybersecurity Specialists: PhD Computing graduates with a focus on cybersecurity can excel in roles such as cybersecurity analysts, consultants, or architects. They contribute to the protection of organizations from cyber threats, design secure systems, and play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity of digital environments.

Software Engineering Leadership: Graduates can pursue leadership roles in software engineering, becoming software development managers, engineering directors, or Chief Technology Officers (CTOs). They oversee the development of software solutions, guide development teams, and contribute to the strategic direction of software projects.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Engineers: Those specializing in AI and ML can embark on careers as AI engineers, ML specialists, or algorithm developers. They contribute to the development of intelligent systems, work on automation projects, and explore innovative applications of AI in various industries.

Technology Consultants: PhD holders may establish themselves as technology consultants, offering their expertise to organizations seeking innovative solutions. They can advise on technology strategy, system architecture, and the implementation of advanced computing solutions across different sectors.

Cloud Computing Architects: With the increasing importance of cloud computing, graduates can pursue roles as cloud architects or engineers. They design and implement cloud-based solutions, ensuring scalability, security, and optimal performance in the deployment of applications and services.

Tech Entrepreneurship: Entrepreneurial graduates may choose to venture into tech entrepreneurship, founding their own startups or tech companies. This path allows for creative freedom, enabling graduates to innovate and bring new computing solutions to the market.

IT Project Management: PhD Computing graduates may excel in IT project management roles, overseeing the planning, execution, and delivery of complex technology projects. They ensure the successful implementation of computing solutions within organizations.

Continuous Learning and Thought Leadership: Remaining committed to continuous learning, graduates can contribute to thought leadership in the computing field. They may write publications, speak at conferences, and engage in industry events, establishing themselves as experts and influencers in the dynamic world of computing.