Studying for a PhD/Master's by Research in NUS can be a very rewarding and exciting experience. Yes, it will mean dedication and work.
Doctoral research represents a unique, individual contribution to a discipline, so each student’s work is different. It provides an opportunity for you to chase ideas, seek new knowledge and turn your ideas into reality.
Doctoral studies include taking a number of courses that lay the foundations for research. Students also attend and deliver seminars where current research is presented. A Comprehensive Exam, followed by a PhD qualifying examination, ensures that students are making headway. The research work, which forms the largest single component, culminate in a thesis that will be examined both orally and in writing. Click here for programme structure.
Graduate students pursuing the Doctor of Philosophy and Master's by Research programmes have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members on a wide variety of exciting research projects. Excellent opportunities are available for students to be immersed in a vibrant research-intensive environment in any of our ten departments:
- Department of Biomedical Engineering
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering
- Department of Industrial Systems Engineering & Management
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering
- Department of Mechanical Engineering
- Department of Architecture
- Department of the Built Environment
- Division of Industrial Design
The Master's by Research is particularly appropriate for you if you wish to develop your research abilities without committing yourself to the larger scale doctoral degree. The Master's by Research programmes will appeal to those who wish to formalise work related projects, or who wish to gain formal research experience appropriate to particular work situations. Click here for programme structure.
If at this point in time, you are not sure of your suitability in the research arena, you may also opt to pursue the Master’s by Research programme. Many of our Master's by Research students with PhD calibre subsequently upgrade their programme to the doctoral programme after a year of study.
However, since our focus is on doctoral programmes, priority is given to those who admit for our PhD study. If you have a good first degree, you are encouraged to apply for admission to our doctoral programme with a research scholarship. There is no bond for our scholarships.
Take your time to explore the exciting research of our faculty members and the various scholarship opportunities available for you.