The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) is University of Malaya’s premier research training degree. The pinnacle of academic achievement here at University of Malaya, the Ph.D is awarded based on the foundation of the thesis prepared under supervision, resulting in an original and significant contribution, displaying extensive knowledge and comprehension of the subject and field of study.
Judged by independent experts using current and internationally accepted standards, the University’s Ph.D programme produces human capital, which is not only intellectual and skilful in modern technology but also very versatile and able to handle problems in real life situation. Ph.D. students will carry out focused research in their area of specialisation, which is of immediate relevance to local interest. Additionally, they will be alert to the challenges faced in the international arena through the media, seminars, conferences and keynote addresses, and also through research attachments and collaborative exchange arrangements with international recognised research centres.
The Ph.D programme is more than just an academic distinction. The programmes are designed to ensure the fields of study remain relevant to the needs of today. At the same time, the candidates in pursuit of their Ph.D’s foresee the changes of societal & industry standards, trends and behavioural patterns; the very same qualities that make them brilliant and effective leaders.
Entry Requirements
Programme of study by Research :
a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent; and
a Master’s Degree
any other qualification as may be approved by the Senate from time to time.
Language Requirement: English
A non-Malaysian applicant whose degree is from a university or institution of higher learning where the medium of instruction for that degree is not the English language and where the applicant wishes to follow a programme and/or write his dissertation in the English language shall be required:
to obtain a score of 550 for a paper-based total, a score of 213 for a computer-based total or a score of 80 for an internet-based total for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL); or
to obtain a band of 6 for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS);
Programme Structure
This Ph.D programme is purely based on individual supervised research. At the end of the candidate’s study, a thesis must be submitted and upon successful defense of the paper, the candidate will be granted Ph.D status. All research proposals must be approved and supervised by the Faculty.
Ph.D candidates’ theses must not exceed 100,000 words. They are required to complete their studies within 12 semesters
