PhD in Computer Science and Informatics

Overview

This PhD programme in Computer Science and Informatics (PhD-CSI) is designed to help students in the Kurdistan region to pursue their postgraduate studies by employing advanced and cutting-edge computer technologies, which will eventually prepare them to be leaders in the fields of computer science and information technology and help the Kurdistan region continue to flourish. The plan of having PhD-CSI would include the candidate’s competence, knowledge and skills from a societal and corporation-oriented perception. Students will undertake coursework, engage in independent research and collaborate with faculty members and peers. The programme typically begins with foundational coursework to build a strong theoretical and practical understanding of the core principles and methodologies.

Admission Requirements

• PhD candidates seeking admission to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at UKH must have MSc in Computer Science, Information Technology, or equivalent results of the PhD candidates must be exemplary and from highly regarded, recognised, and accredited universities.
• Candidates must have an average of not less than 60 and 70 in BSc and MSc respectively.
• A score of at least 6.5 in an IELTS examination, 56 in a Pearson Test of English (Academic), or 85 in an ibt TOEFL examination.

Curriculum

The subjects of study (coursework) for the degree of PhD programme consist of five  modules and will be conducted over 16 weeks (one semester),  14 teaching weeks and two weeks for final exams.

A student shall present their thesis after successful completion of her/his approved coursework to qualify for the award of the degree.

five potential subjects for a PhD programme in Computer Science:

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: This subject involves the study of creating algorithms that can enable computers to learn and perform tasks without explicit instructions. PhD research in this area could focus on topics like deep learning, reinforcement learning, natural language processing, and computer vision.

Advanced Database Systems: Focuses on advanced concepts in database systems, including distributed databases, data warehousing and data mining. The course also covers database design principles, transaction management, query optimization, and emerging trends in database research.

Data Science and Big Data Analytics: This subject involves the study of methods for analyzing and interpreting large and complex data sets. PhD research in this area could focus on topics like data mining, statistical analysis, and machine learning algorithms for handling big data.

Cybersecurity and Information Security: This subject involves the study of methods for protecting computer systems and networks from cyber attacks and unauthorized access. PhD research in this area could focus on topics like cryptography, network security, and malware analysis.

Independent Research Methodology: Independent research methodology refers to the systematic approach that an individual or a group of researchers undertake to collect and analyze data to answer research questions or hypotheses. This methodology involves independent thinking, planning, and executing a research project without the assistance of a supervisor or mentor.

Skills Development

The PhD-CSI programme will enable students to undertake a research project that makes up a considerable part of the overall assessment. The students will be capable to choose a research subject and develop a proposal to work on. In addition, other skills such as learning how to take initiative and responsibility, solve problems in creative and innovative ways, continue to learn independently and to develop professional capacity will be practiced. Upon completing the coursework, students focus on their research, which forms the core of their PhD studies. They work closely with their faculty supervisors to identify research areas and formulate research questions. The research topics may vary widely depending on the interests of the student and the faculty expertise available at the institution. The students are supported by one or more supervisors who guide the candidate through the research process. Throughout their doctoral research, students are expected to conduct original investigations, collect and analyse data, develop and test innovative engineering solutions and contribute new knowledge to the field. Students are expected to present their findings in conferences and publish their work in scientific journals. Successful PhD experience requires substantial independent research work. Students often work with experts from various fields to gain a holistic understanding of complex environmental problems and develop solutions, such collaboration and interdisciplinary interactions are highly encouraged.