Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 48 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting January 2027. Apply anytime.
- Starting May 2027. Apply anytime.
- Starting September 2027. Apply anytime.
Most students apply 6–10 months in advance of their chosen intake. We can accept applications up until 3 weeks before the start of each intake.
Language
English
English requirements
- TOEFL® IBT: 79. TOEFL iBT® is accepted by more than 13,000 universities and other institutions in over 160 countries. The test can be taken at a test center or at home. The test measures your English-language abilities in an academic setting. The score refers to the total score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading), each subject has a range of 0 - 30.
- PTE Academic: 55. PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English) is a language test that enables students to demonstrate their writing, listening, speaking, and reading skills when applying to study in English. The score refers to a total score which ranges between 10 and 90.
- IELTS: 6. The International English Language Test System (IELTS) tests your English-language proficiency on a scale of 1 – 9. The score refers to the combined average score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading).
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Delivered
On Campus
Campus Location
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Disciplines
- Mathematics
- Computer Sciences
- Web Technologies & Cloud Computing
Overview
This Computer Sciences PhD programme from Heriot-Watt University Dubai offers a unique opportunity to conduct outstanding research in the areas of Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Information Security. We foster a multidisciplinary research culture in collaboration with the Edinburgh Campus and are looking to strengthen mutually beneficial links with industry and government partners in the UAE.
Key facts
- The Dubai Campus is accredited by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and fully licensed to teach its degrees in Dubai. All graduates receive a British degree that is accredited by Royal Charter in the UK.
- The Computer Sciences programme at Heriot-Watt University Dubai will enable students to work with staff and students in Dubai in collaboration with a research group in Edinburgh performing high value and fundamental research in Computer Science. Industry-based applied research can also be pursued if the right circumstances are available.
- Students will be working under the supervision of an expert academic supervisor based at the Dubai campus and supported by a second supervisor in Edinburgh, with the option of having a third supervisor if needed. In addition to time spent doing research project work, students will review scientific literature and participate in research group discussions and meetings. Students will also be expected to publish their work in high impact journals.
- On completion of the research project, students spend some six months 'writing up' to produce a final PhD. Once the thesis has been submitted, internal and external academics will examine the student’s work and knowledge of the PhD subject.
Visit the programme website for more information
Programme Structure
Courses include:
- Predictive Analytics and Big Data Analytics
- Semantic Technologies
- Visualization and Software Engineering
- Mathematical and Event-Based Modeling
- Applications in Smart Cities, Healthcare, Finance, Logistics, Energy and Construction
- Machine Learning/Deep learning/Trust-based AI
- Natural Language Processing and Text Analytics
- Malware Detection using Machine Learning
Visit the programme website for more information
Admission requirements
Academic requirements
We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.
English requirements
- TOEFL® IBT: 79
- PTE Academic: 55
- IELTS: 6
Other requirements
General requirements
- Interested applicants should complete the online application form, making clear on the form that you are applying to study at the Dubai Campus.
- Applicants interested in our PhD opportunities need to submit the following:
- Copies of full academic transcripts from all previous academic degree courses and copies of certificates for degrees already awarded.
- Confirmation of funding source and/or confirmation of sponsorship/sufficient funds to pursue studies.
- A detailed research proposal.
Fees and funding
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are shown in AUD and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.
- International (Non-residents): 37,814 AUD / year ≈ 99,500 AED / year
- Domestic (Citizens or residents): 37,814 AUD / year ≈ 99,500 AED / year
Additional Details
Part Time: AED 49,750 per year
Living costs
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: 2,014–3,496 AUD / month
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Scholarships
Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Computer Sciences.
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