School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

PhD Computer Engineering

Programme code 8397
Duration

Full time: 2-4 years, Part time: 4-8 years
Course type

Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location Plymouth
Register for open evening
Apply now

This PhD in Computer Engineering enables you to undertake original research in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, software engineering, computer systems and intelligent technologies. Through independent study, you'll develop new knowledge and expertise, preparing for careers in academic or industry research.

Course details

  • Programme overview

  • This full-time or part-time doctoral programme in Computer Engineering provides opportunities to undertake original research in computing and its engineering applications, including areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer systems, software engineering, and intelligent technologies. Candidates will develop and refine research questions through independent research, with the aim of making an original contribution to knowledge. The programme is particularly suitable for those aspiring to research careers in academia or industry.
    You will be supported by a supervisory team of academic experts led by a Director of Studies. 
    You will be expected to fully engage with skills development and training and to present your research in a range of scholarly contexts.
    Your PhD will be assessed via submission of either a written thesis (up to 80,000 words) and a viva voce (an oral examination).
    For full details of what doing a PhD entails at the University of Plymouth, please visit our postgraduate research degrees pages.

Entry requirements

UK/EU

A relevant degree with honours or an equivalent professional qualification. Other qualifications accompanied by substantial experience in an appropriate field may also be considered. Non-standard applications will be considered on a case by case basis.

International

Please view the country specific pages for further information regarding the equivalency of your degree. International applicants will be required to provide evidence of their English language ability, for example by achieving an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element) or equivalent, see our English language requirements. Pre-sessional English language courses are available if you do not meet these requirements.

We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available for postgraduate taught programmes. Tell me more about scholarships and bursaries.

Fees, costs and funding
Please visit Fees and costs of studying for information about fees. PhD Computer Engineering is in Band 2 for fees purposes.
You are responsible for meeting all of the costs related to your own research project, beyond the resources available in the department.
Please visit our funding for postgraduate research students page to find out more about issues related to fees, funding, loans and paying for your programme of study.

How to apply

Apply online

In addition to completing the online application form (which includes space for a personal statement), you must also upload a research project proposal. Your research proposal should outline your research topic, your key aims and the research question/problem you are addressing, a brief literature review, your proposed methodology, and an explanation of why this topic is significant or important.
Your personal statement should briefly explain why you have chosen to apply to our programme and what you feel you can offer our research community.
Submitting your application
To submit your formal application, please complete the online application form and upload all required supporting documents. For details of the mandatory documents and application deadlines, please visit our apply for a postgraduate research programme webpage.
Questions on the application process?
We're here to help. Please contact the Doctoral College and we'll be happy to assist you.
More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admissions policy which can be found on the student regulations, policies and procedures page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.
 
 
 
 

Funding for postgraduate research students

If you are considering starting a postgraduate research course, you could get help to pay for your course and living costs. 
Group of postgraduate students sat around a table looking at an ipad

Doctoral College

Find out more about the Doctoral College and the support it offers students, supervisors and examiners of postgraduate research at the University of Plymouth.
Postgraduate students having a discussion