Doctor of Philosophy (Arts)

Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (Arts) programme is a generic Ph.D programme offered by the Faculty of Education and Social Sciences, Open University Malaysia (OUM). It is a programme that links a variety of disciplines in religion, languages, history and philosophy. This programme focuses on specialised areas where OUM has a wide range of academic expertise that will add value to the learning experience of each candidate.

Fields of Study:
  •  Religion (Islamic Studies)
  • Languages
  • National Languages
  • Other Languages
  • History and Archaeology
  • Philosophy and Ethics
  • History, Philosophy and Related Subjects

Part 1: Compulsory Core Courses

Course titleCredit Hours
APRM7104 Research Methodology4
APDS7104 Doctoral Seminar: Literature Review4

Part 2: Thesis Writing

After completing the required courses (Part 1) learners will begin the research and thesis work (Part 2) under the guidance of a supervisor. Each learner will meet the assigned supervisor at least 4 times in a semester and achieve satisfactory progress in the research / thesis work before being allowed to register in the subsequent semester.

Areas of specialisations in research / thesis:

  • Religion (Islamic Studies)
  • Languages
  • National Languages
  • Other Languages
  • History and Archaeology
  • Philosophy and Ethics
  • History, Philosophy and Related Subjects
  • Psychology
  • Sociology and Cultural Studies
  • Political Science and Civics

Part 3: Thesis Examination

When the learner has completed the thesis and is ready for examination, an examining committee consisting of an internal examiner and an external examiner will be appointed to assess the thesis (Part 3). The learner will be examined in the Viva Voce session.

Malaysian Learner Fees

Year 1RM3,678 (Sem 1)RM2,200 (Sem 2)RM2,200 (Sem 3)
Year 2RM2,200 (Sem 4)RM2,200 (Sem 5)RM2,200 (Sem 6)
Year 3RM2,200 (Sem 7)RM2,200 (Sem 8)RM2,200 (Sem 9)
Year 4RM2,200 (Sem 10)RM2,200 (Sem 11)RM2,200 (Sem 12)
TOTALRM27,878

Discount for the Physically Challenged Learners (OKU) and Senior Citizens

* Fees applicable to Malaysians and Permanent Residents only.
* The University reserves the right to revise the fees without prior notice.

The University offers 50% discount for:
1. Senior citizens aged 60 and above on registration date; and
2. Physically challenged learners – a valid Orang Kelainan Upaya (OKU) is required.
The discounts are not valid for second time registration and repeating of subjects.
Learners who receive this discount are not entitled to other discounts and promotions.

Note
Processing fee: RM50
Re-registration fee of RM220 per semester is chargeable for extension of the Research Thesis/Dissertation 

Financial options:Payment Mode:
EPF (Account 2); orJomPAY
Education or Personal Loan from commercial banks; orInternet Banking
HRDF (subject to employer’s eligibility); orDebit/Credit Card.

International Learner Fees

Year 1RM4,416 (Sem 1)RM2,200 (Sem 2)RM2,200 (Sem 3)
Year 2RM2,200 (Sem 4)RM2,200 (Sem 5)RM2,200 (Sem 6)
Year 3RM2,200 (Sem 7)RM2,200 (Sem 8)RM2,200 (Sem 9)
Year 4RM2,200 (Sem 10)RM2,200 (Sem 11)RM2,200 (Sem 12)
TOTALRM28,616

Notes:
1 – Fees applicable to International applicants
2 – The fee above excludes registration fee, processing fee and resource fee. Fee imposed first semester only-non refundable . (Diploma RM2,700; Bachelor RM3,200, Master RM3,700, PhD/Doctorate RM4,200).
3 – Financial method: Telegraphic Transfer , PayPal (Invoice will be prepared in MYR and will be added 6% to cover PayPal transaction fees.)
4 – The fees are for subject fees only and are not applicable for research, registration, repeating of subjects and other fees.
5 – 60% payment of the semester fees must be made before the semester starts, 40% payment before the examination week.


* The University reserves the right to revise the fees without prior notice.
**LATEST UPDATE: 30 August 2022

  • PEO 1: To produce intellectuals in the field of humanities who are able to undertake sound, intensive and in-depth research and writing using digital and numeracy skills to continuously advance their academic scholarships and skills.
  • PEO 2: To produce intellectuals in the field of humanities who are able to lead with autonomy, and communicate with internal and external stakeholders when working in various settings
  • PEO 3: To produce intellectuals in the field of humanities who are able to demonstrate a positive attitude, entrepreneurial mindset, and sustainable career practices in their professions.
  • PLO1: Critically synthesise and evaluate current knowledge and those emerging from research that is related to humanities.
  • PLO2: Design and develop studies or research creatively to address humanities issues, demonstrating mastery of knowledge, incorporating state of the art analytical, numerical and digital techniques.
  • PLO3: Organise and design outcomes-based research employing advanced techniques, including digital technology to enhance the body of knowledge and practices humanities.
  • PLO4: Adapt suitable leadership styles and balance autonomy with responsibility in emerging and dynamic humanities settings
  • PLO5: Adapt to situations when delivering tasks either individually or through multidisciplinary teams with good communication and interpersonal skills in humanities settings.
  • PLO6: Uphold and defend professionalism and ethics to fulfill research standards in ensuring the integrity of the profession at all times.
  • PLO7: Advocate a positive attitude and commitment to life-long learning with an entrepreneurial mindset in response to the changing world of humanities and for professional advancement.



Application Requirements:

  • Every applicant must send a research proposal together with his/her application; OR
  • Every applicant must send a research proposal 2 weeks after his/her application.
  • Important Skills for Ph.D. Candidates

In order to successfully complete a Ph.D. programme, learners will need a diverse set of skills. A Ph.D. candidate needs to:

  • Practice independence and self-reliance:

A Ph.D programme requires a learner to study and conduct research with the assistance of a supervisor. While the supervisor will provide support and guidance in all areas of the programme, a learner needs to be aware of all stipulated guidelines and expectations and determine what needs to be achieved in different stages of study and research.

  • Have determination:

A learner must have the determination and commitment to keep going and not give up, as preparing a Ph.D research thesis will take up to four years.

  • Know how to manage time:

This is especially crucial for candidates taking up a PhD programme in open and distance learning (ODL) as it is up to the learner to prioritise and manage study-related tasks with personal and professional commitments to ensure that each task can be completed.

  • Know how to accommodate challenges and seek solutions:

A learner will face many obstacles and challenges throughout a PhD research project. Thus, each learner needs to be flexible enough to adapt to these challenges and find solutions to issues that may appear during the project.

  • Have good verbal and written communication skills:

A learner needs to leverage on communication skills in all areas of research, not only for discussions with peers and supervisors but especially in research proposal defense and viva voce. A learner also needs to know how to communicate clearly and effectively in the writing of the PhD thesis.

  • Pick up new skills along the way:

The PhD journey is long and challenging, and while the University will do its best to help, each learner must be open to learn new skills and develop new approaches and perspectives, such as in critical thinking, managing the research and ensuring personal effectiveness.

Language of instruction:English and Bahasa Melayu
Mode of study : Part-time
Mode of delivery:

  • Self-Managed Learning
  • Online Learning
  • Face-to-face Sessions

Method of delivery : Open and Distance Learning
Supervisor : Provided by OUM

1.      What is OUM PhD Arts?
OUM PhD Arts Programme is an extensive, independent research project on an agreed topic, supported by a minimum of two expert academic supervisors (internal and external) in the field of humanities and social sciences.

2.      What is PhD Arts entry requirement?
Candidate should have a master’s degree in the related field of studies from an accredited university and recognized by the Malaysian Qualification Agency (MQA).

3.      How long is the PhD Arts study duration?
It is a four-year-programme of studies. PhD students spend the first two years of the programme completing valuable coursework, doing extensive reading and writing literature reviews, working closely with their supervisors in finalizing their proposals (Chapters 1,2 and 3), and sitting for their Proposal Defence. The final two years will be doing their data collection and reporting, and working on their Chapters 4 and 5. However, candidates may take up to a maximum of eight years to complete their doctoral studies.

4.      What is the medium of instruction of the programme?
The medium of instruction is in English. However, students may write their assignments and theses in English or Bahasa Melayu (Malay language).

5.      When is PhD Arts intake?
January or May or September intake.

6.      How much are PhD Arts fees?
Kindly refer to the OUM portal. The fees will subject to OUM policy. You can make partial payment and need to settle the balance payment before the final examination in each semester.

7.      What are the field of studies offered in the PhD Arts programme?

Here is the list of fields of studies offered:

a.   Religion (Islamic Studies)
b.   Languages
c.    National Languages
d.   Other Languages
e.   History and Archaeology
f.     Philosophy and Ethics
g.   History, Philosophy and Related Subjects
h.   Psychology
i.     Sociology and Cultural Studies
j.     Political Science and Civics

8.      Can I apply as a student using my working experience?
Yes, your working experience would be an added value to be considered together with your master’s degree.

9.      What is the assessment structure in this program?
Students need to register and pass these two mandatory courses offered in the first semester. APRM7104 (Research Methodology – 4 credit hours) and APDS7104 (Doctoral Seminar: Literature Review – 4 credit hours). The two courses offered in the first semester shall carry 100% grade. There are no final exams for those courses

10.  How do the courses in PhD Arts conduct?
It is blended learning (face-to-face tutorials, online or e-tutorial learning support and self-managed learning). However, due to Covid-19, all course tutorials at OUM are conducted via google-meet.

11.  Who can I contact for further enquiries regarding the PhD Arts programme?

Academic MattersDr Mohd Azli Bin Md Jailani
(Programme Director)
+603 7801 2186
mohdazli_jailani@oum.edu.my
Research & Project Management UnitMr. Mohamed Fauzi Hassan+6 03-7801 1811
mdfauzi@oum.edu.my
Finance MattersMadam Haslinda Haron+6 03-7801 2076
haslindaharon@oum.edu.my
Marketing Department +6 03 7801 2000
enquiries@oum.edu.my

Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (Arts) programme is a generic Ph.D programme offered by the Faculty of Education and Social Sciences, Open University Malaysia (OUM). It is a programme that links a variety of disciplines in psychology, sociology, cultural studies and political science. This programme focuses on specialised areas where OUM has a wide range of academic expertise that will add value to the learning experience of each candidate.

Fields of Study:
  • Psychology
  • Sociology and Cultural Studies
  • Political Science and Civics

Part 1: Compulsory Core Courses

Course titleCredit Hours
APRM7104 Research Methodology4
APDS7104 Doctoral Seminar: Literature Review4

Part 2: Thesis Writing

After completing the required courses (Part 1) learners will begin the research and thesis work (Part 2) under the guidance of a supervisor. Each learner will meet the assigned supervisor at least 4 times in a semester and achieve satisfactory progress in the research / thesis work before being allowed to register in the subsequent semester.

Areas of specialisations in research / thesis:

  • Religion
  • Languages
  • National Languages
  • Other Languages
  • History and Archaeology
  • Philosophy and Ethics
  • History, Philosophy and Related Subjects
  • Psychology
  • Sociology and Cultural Studies
  • Political Science and Civics

Part 3: Thesis Examination

When the learner has completed the thesis and is ready for examination, an examining committee consisting of an internal examiner and an external examiner will be appointed to assess the thesis (Part 3). The learner will be examined in the Viva Voce session.

Malaysian Learner Fees

Year 1RM3,696 (Sem 1)RM2,210 (Sem 2)RM2,210 (Sem 3)
Year 2RM2,210 (Sem 4)RM2,210 (Sem 5)RM2,210 (Sem 6)
Year 3RM2,210 (Sem 7)RM2,210 (Sem 8)RM2,210 (Sem 9)
Year 4RM2,210 (Sem 10)RM2,210 (Sem 11)RM2,210 (Sem 12)
TOTALRM28,006

Discount for the Physically Challenged Learners (OKU) and Senior Citizens

* Fees applicable to Malaysians and Permanent Residents only.
* The University reserves the right to revise the fees without prior notice.

The University offers 50% discount for:
1. Senior citizens aged 60 and above on registration date; and
2. Physically challenged learners – a valid Orang Kelainan Upaya (OKU) is required.
The discounts are not valid for second time registration and repeating of subjects.
Learners who receive this discount are not entitled to other discounts and promotions.

Note
Processing fee: RM50
Re-registration fee of RM220 per semester is chargeable for extension of the Research Thesis/Dissertation 

Financial options:Payment Mode:
EPF (Account 2); orJomPAY
Education or Personal Loan from commercial banks; orInternet Banking
HRDF (subject to employer’s eligibility); orDebit/Credit Card.

International Learner Fees

Year 1RM4,432 (Sem 1)RM2,210 (Sem 2)RM2,210 (Sem 3)
Year 2RM2,210 (Sem 4)RM2,210 (Sem 5)RM2,210 (Sem 6)
Year 3RM2,210 (Sem 7)RM2,210 (Sem 8)RM2,210 (Sem 9)
Year 4RM2,210 (Sem 10)RM2,210 (Sem 11)RM2,210 (Sem 12)
TOTALRM28,742

Notes:
1 – Fees applicable to International applicants
2 – The fee above excludes registration fee, processing fee and resource fee. Fee imposed first semester only-non refundable . (Diploma RM2,700; Bachelor RM3,200, Master RM3,700, PhD/Doctorate RM4,200).
3 – Financial method: Telegraphic Transfer , PayPal (Invoice will be prepared in MYR and will be added 6% to cover PayPal transaction fees.)
4 – The fees are for subject fees only and are not applicable for research, registration, repeating of subjects and other fees.
5 – 60% payment of the semester fees must be made before the semester starts, 40% payment before the examination week.


* The University reserves the right to revise the fees without prior notice.
**LATEST UPDATE: 30 August 2022

  • PEO 1: To produce intellectuals in social and behavioural sciences who are able to undertake sound, intensive and in-depth research and writing using digital and numeracy skills to continuously advance their academic scholarships and skills.
  • PEO 2: To produce intellectuals in social and behavioural sciences who are able to lead with autonomy, and communicate with internal and external stakeholders when working in various settings.
  • PEO 3: To produce intellectuals in social and behavioural sciences who are able to advocate professional and ethical practices in various settings, and defend the integrity of the profession at all times.
  • PEO 4: To produce intellectuals in social and behavioural sciences who are able to demonstrate a positive attitude, entrepreneurial mind set, and sustainable career practices in their professions.
  • PLO1: Critically synthesise and evaluate current knowledge and those emerging from research that is related to social and behavioural science.
  • PLO2: Design and develop studies or research creatively to address social and behavioural science issues, demonstrating mastery of knowledge, incorporating state of the art analytical, numerical and digital techniques.
  • PLO3: Organise and design outcomes-based research employing advanced techniques, including digital technology to enhance the body of knowledge and practices in social and behavioural science.
  • PLO4: Adapt suitable leadership styles and balance autonomy with responsibility in emerging and dynamic humanities settings
  • PLO5: Adapt to situations when delivering tasks either individually or through multidisciplinary teams with good communication and interpersonal skills in social and behavioural science research settings.
  • PLO6: Uphold and defend professionalism and ethics to fulfill research standards in ensuring the integrity of the profession at all times.
  • PLO7: Advocate positive attitude and commitment to life-long learning with entrepreneurial mindset in response to the changing world of social and behavioural science and for professional advancement.

Application Requirements:

  • Every applicant must send a research proposal together with his/her application; OR
  • Every applicant must send a research proposal 2 weeks after his/her application.
  • Important Skills for Ph.D. Candidates

In order to successfully complete a Ph.D. programme, learners will need a diverse set of skills. A Ph.D. candidate needs to:

  • Practice independence and self-reliance:

A Ph.D programme requires a learner to study and conduct research with the assistance of a supervisor. While the supervisor will provide support and guidance in all areas of the programme, a learner needs to be aware of all stipulated guidelines and expectations and determine what needs to be achieved in different stages of study and research.

  • Have determination:

A learner must have the determination and commitment to keep going and not give up, as preparing a Ph.D research thesis will take up to four years.

  • Know how to manage time:

This is especially crucial for candidates taking up a PhD programme in open and distance learning (ODL) as it is up to the learner to prioritise and manage study-related tasks with personal and professional commitments to ensure that each task can be completed.

  • Know how to accommodate challenges and seek solutions:

A learner will face many obstacles and challenges throughout a PhD research project. Thus, each learner needs to be flexible enough to adapt to these challenges and find solutions to issues that may appear during the project.

  • Have good verbal and written communication skills:

A learner needs to leverage on communication skills in all areas of research, not only for discussions with peers and supervisors but especially in research proposal defense and viva voce. A learner also needs to know how to communicate clearly and effectively in the writing of the PhD thesis.

  • Pick up new skills along the way:

The PhD journey is long and challenging, and while the University will do its best to help, each learner must be open to learn new skills and develop new approaches and perspectives, such as in critical thinking, managing the research and ensuring personal effectiveness.

Language of instruction:English and Bahasa Melayu
Mode of study : Part-time
Mode of delivery:

  • Self-Managed Learning
  • Online Learning
  • Face-to-face Sessions

Method of delivery : Open and Distance Learning
Supervisor : Provided by OUM

1.      What is OUM PhD Arts?
OUM PhD Arts Programme is an extensive, independent research project on an agreed topic, supported by a minimum of two expert academic supervisors (internal and external) in the field of humanities and social sciences.

2.      What is PhD Arts entry requirement?
Candidate should have a master’s degree in the related field of studies from an accredited university and recognized by the Malaysian Qualification Agency (MQA).

3.      How long is the PhD Arts study duration?
It is a four-year-programme of studies. PhD students spend the first two years of the programme completing valuable coursework, doing extensive reading and writing literature reviews, working closely with their supervisors in finalizing their proposals (Chapters 1,2 and 3), and sitting for their Proposal Defence. The final two years will be doing their data collection and reporting, and working on their Chapters 4 and 5. However, candidates may take up to a maximum of eight years to complete their doctoral studies.

4.      What is the medium of instruction of the programme?
The medium of instruction is in English. However, students may write their assignments and theses in English or Bahasa Melayu (Malay language).

5.      When is PhD Arts intake?
January or May or September intake.

6.      How much are PhD Arts fees?
Kindly refer to the OUM portal. The fees will subject to OUM policy. You can make partial payment and need to settle the balance payment before the final examination in each semester.

7.      What are the field of studies offered in the PhD Arts programme?

Here is the list of fields of studies offered:

a.   Religion
b.   Languages
c.    National Languages
d.   Other Languages
e.   History and Archaeology
f.     Philosophy and Ethics
g.   History, Philosophy and Related Subjects
h.   Psychology
i.     Sociology and Cultural Studies
j.     Political Science and Civics

8.      Can I apply as a student using my working experience?
Yes, your working experience would be an added value to be considered together with your master’s degree.

9.      What is the assessment structure in this program?
Students need to register and pass these two mandatory courses offered in the first semester. APRM7104 (Research Methodology – 4 credit hours) and APDS7104 (Doctoral Seminar: Literature Review – 4 credit hours). The two courses offered in the first semester shall carry 100% grade. There are no final exams for those courses

10.  How do the courses in PhD Arts conduct?
It is blended learning (face-to-face tutorials, online or e-tutorial learning support and self-managed learning). However, due to Covid-19, all course tutorials at OUM are conducted via google-meet.

11.  Who can I contact for further enquiries regarding the PhD Arts programme?

Academic MattersDr Mohd Azli Bin Md Jailani
(Programme Director)
+603 7801 2186
mohdazli_jailani@oum.edu.my
Research & Project Management UnitMr. Mohamed Fauzi Hassan+6 03-7801 1811
mdfauzi@oum.edu.my
Finance MattersMadam Haslinda Haron+6 03-7801 2076
haslindaharon@oum.edu.my
Marketing Department +6 03 7801 2000
enquiries@oum.edu.my

Here are some common types of career fields for graduates with a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree, along with examples of career opportunities in each field:

Career Field Examples of Career Opportunities
Higher Education 1. Professor/ Lecturer
2. Academic Researcher
3. Department Chair
4. Academic Administrator
Research and Development 1. Research Scientist
2. Research Fellow
3. Policy Analyst
4. Think Tank Researcher
Publishing and Media 1. Editor
2. Writer/Author
3. Content Developer
4. Journalist
Museum and Cultural Institutions 1. Curator
2. Archivist
3. Exhibit Designer
4. Museum Educator
Government and Public Policy 1. Policy Advisor
2. Diplomat
3. Government Researcher
4. Cultural Affairs Officer
Nonprofit and NGO Sector 1. Program Manager
2. Grant Writer
3. Advocacy Specialist
4. Cultural Heritage Officer
Corporate Sector 1. Corporate Trainer
2. Communications Specialist
3. Market Research Analyst
4. Diversity and Inclusion Manager
International Organizations 1. International Relations Specialist
2. UN or UNESCO Consultant
3. Foreign Service Officer
4. Human Rights Advocate
Independent Consulting 1. Cultural Consultant
2. Strategic Planning Consultant
3. Language and Communication Consultant
4. Program Evaluation Consultant
It’s important to note that this is not an exhaustive list, and individuals with a Doctor of Philosophy (Arts) degree may find opportunities that span across multiple fields or specialize in niche areas within these broader categories. Additionally, the actual job titles and opportunities may vary based on individual interests, skills, and the specific focus of the doctoral research.
Syed Hussein Syed Abdul Rahman
Syed Hussein Syed Abdul RahmanJohor Bahru

The struggle to balance study and work gave me better insight into productivity and efficiency. I was able to apply the lessons learned to my occupation. My study at OUM was my progress in development. The encouragement and guidance from OUM gave me the platform and confidence to succeed in my studies. Today, my degree has given me generous employment recognition, added edge in promotion, and salary advances.

Syed Hussein Syed Abdul Rahman
Syed Hussein Syed Abdul RahmanJohor Bahru

The struggle to balance study and work gave me better insight into productivity and efficiency. I was able to apply the lessons learned to my occupation. My study at OUM was my progress in development. The encouragement and guidance from OUM gave me the platform and confidence to succeed in my studies. Today, my degree has given me generous employment recognition, added edge in promotion, and salary advances.

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