The PhD in Information Technology (by research) offered by the University of Geomatika Malaysia (UGM) is a fully research-based doctoral programme designed for professionals, scholars, and technology specialists seeking to advance expertise in computing, digital innovation, and emerging technologies. Accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and recognised by the Office of the Civil Service Commission (OCSC) of Thailand, the qualification is also widely recognised internationally across most countries, enabling graduates to pursue global academic, professional, and research careers.
Designed for completion within 24–36 months, the programme focuses on independent research, advanced analytical capability, and scholarly contribution to real-world technological challenges. Candidates undertake two audited modules—
Doctoral Research Methodology
Doctoral Academic Writing
Followed by the development and completion of a doctoral thesis under close academic supervision.
Throughout their candidature, learners receive one-to-one supervision from international faculty members and participate in doctoral colloquia, IT-focused seminars, research workshops, and publication training. These learning activities strengthen methodological skills, academic writing, and the ability to disseminate high-impact scientific research.
UGM offers a wide range of potential research fields within Information Technology, allowing candidates to align their doctoral inquiry with current trends and industry demands. Areas of specialisation include:
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
Data Science & Big Data Analytics
Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics
Cloud Computing & Virtualization Technologies
Software Engineering & Software Quality Assurance
Information Systems Management
Blockchain & Financial Technology (FinTech)
Internet of Things (IoT)
Health Informatics & Digital Healthcare Systems
Human–Computer Interaction & User Experience (HCI/UX)
Digital Transformation & IT Strategy
Intelligent Systems & Automation
Network Systems & Wireless Communication
Smart Cities, Smart Mobility, and Urban Informatics
Educational Technology & E-Learning Innovation
This doctoral programme is ideal for:
IT professionals, engineers, and technologists aiming to deepen research expertise for leadership roles
Academics and lecturers seeking to strengthen their research portfolio and advance in higher education
Industry practitioners involved in digital transformation, innovation, and advanced system development
Researchers seeking to address global challenges through high-impact technological solutions
Graduates will have produced a substantial doctoral thesis contributing to knowledge in the IT domain, developed strong research and analytical capabilities, and built a scholarly foundation suitable for careers in academia, research institutions, technology consulting.
Doctoral Research Methodology
Doctoral Academic Writing
Doctoral Thesis
ADVEX adopts a HyFlex Learning Framework that provides two structured learning model, Gudied Self Learning Model (GSLM) and Mentorshiip with Self-Navigation Modeil (MSNM), designed to accommodate different learner profiles while maintaining equivalent academic standards and assessment requirements.
This program adoped Mentorship with Self-Navigation Model (MSNM)
Mentorship with Self-Navigation Model (MSNM)
The Mentorship with Self-Navigation Model (MSNM) delivers subject-based modules through personalized academic mentoring. Each learner is assigned a dedicated mentor who provides structured guidance, academic direction, and milestone support throughout the coursework stage. While the curriculum, syllabus, and assessments remain identical to other delivery models, MSNM offers greater flexibility in scheduling and pacing through one-to-one consultation. This model is designed for independent, research-oriented learners, including those enrolled in the Master of Education (MEd), Doctor of Education (DEd.), and PhD by Research programs.
Dissertation and Research Stage
Upon completion of coursework, learners enter the dissertation or thesis phase and are formally assigned a Research Supervisor. Supervision follows institutional academic governance standards, including structured meetings, research milestone tracking, and formal evaluation procedures. Assessment at this stage is based on scholarly rigor, originality, and the contribution of the research to professional and academic practice. Regardless of the delivery model selected during coursework, all research candidates are subject to the same academic standards and quality assurance framework.
1. A Master’s Degree (Level 7 Malaysian Qualifications Framework, MQF) in Computing or related fields as accepted by the HEP Senate; or
2. A Master’s Degree (Level 7, MQF) in Non-Computing fields with a minimum of FIVE (5) years of working experience in Computing or related fields must undergo appropriate prerequisite courses as determined by the HEP; or
3. A Master’s Degree (Level 7, MQF) in Non-Computing fields with less than five (5) years of working experience in Computing or related fields must undergo a thorough, rigorous assessment as determined by the HEP to identify the appropriate pre-requisite courses that equivalent to their working experience in the Computing or related fields; or
4. Other qualifications equivalent to a Master’s degree (Level 7, MQF) in Computing or related fields recognized by the Government of Malaysia as equivalent to the above requirement
English Competency Requirement (International Student)
Achieve minimum Band 4 in Malaysian University English Test (MUET) or
Any English competency test aligned with Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) (Mid B2).
Pre-requisite Courses
1. Data Structures & Algorithms
2. Computer Systems and Architecture
3. Databases and Information Systems
Tuition and Assessment Fee: 440,000 THB
Scholarship up-to 125,000 THB available, for more information and eligibility please contact us at LINE @advex
International Learners Administration Fee : 20,000 THB