Doctor of Philosophy (Science)

Overview

The aim of the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) programme in OUM is to create an opportunity for developing scientific research skills among working adults in research institutions and industries. To this end, this programme will enable students to gain knowledge in research skills, develop the ability to successfully conduct research projects and hence contribute to the existing body of knowledge.

 

This programme is comprised of the following:

Subject Name
Research Methodology in Science
This 3-credit course is offered to learners during the first semester and focuses on the research elements, components, and processes in scientific research, its purpose and importance. Various types of research, characteristics of scientific research, and logical methods of reasoning, hypothetic-deductive method will be discussed. The course will equip learners with skills such as the capability to formulate research problems and research objectives, theoretical framework, hypothesis formulation, research design, data collection methods, scale and measurements, reliability and validity, data analysis methods, report writing and presentation.

Proposal Defense

After completing the course, learners will begin research work. Each learner will be assigned to supervisor(s) who will guide them through their research. Students are required to demonstrate satisfactory progress in their research work before being allowed to register for the subsequent semester. Within the second to the fourth semester, learners will be expected to defend their research in the proposal defence stage. This research work will be assessed by internal and external examiners.

The possible areas of research in this field of study are as follows:
• Computational and Theoretical Mathematics
• Applied Mathematics in Engineering
• Physics
• Theoretical Physics
• Statistical Quality Control/Statistical Process Control

Doctoral Seminar

The aim of this course is to ensure that the research work carried out is rigorous, meaningful and feasible within the time and resource constraints of the programme. Thus, within the fifth to the sixth semester, learners are expected to present their research work.

Thesis

Learners must write up their research work in a thesis and defend their work in the final stage of the doctoral programme. The thesis must be an original body of work that can make a significant contribution in the learner’s chosen field. When the learner has completed the thesis and is ready for examination, an examining committee will be appointed to assess the thesis. The learner will be examined in a Viva Voce session.

Malaysian Learner Fees

Year 1RM3,393 (Sem 1)RM3,248 (Sem 2)RM3,248 (Sem 3)
Year 2RM3,248 (Sem 4)RM3,248 (Sem 5)RM3,248 (Sem 6)
Year 3RM3,248 (Sem 7)RM3,248 (Sem 8)RM3,248 (Sem 9)
Year 4RM3,248 (Sem 10)RM3,248 (Sem 11)RM3,253(Sem 12)
TOTALRM39,126

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 1RM4,071 (Sem 1)RM3,248 (Sem 2)RM3,248 (Sem 3)
Year 2RM3,248 (Sem 4)RM3,248 (Sem 5)RM3,248 (Sem 6)
Year 3RM3,248 (Sem 7)RM3,248 (Sem 8)RM3,248 (Sem 9)
Year 4RM3,248 (Sem 10)RM3,248 (Sem 11)RM3,253 (Sem 12)
TOTALRM39,804

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 PhD students who are knowledgeable and theoretically sound and are able to apply these for the analysis and solution of problems where these leads to new or substantially improved insights and performances.

PEO 2 – To produce PhD students who can think critically and creatively thus capable of generating and developing new knowledge, products or methods for the benefits of mankind.

PEO 3 – To produce PhD students with excellent communication skills, capable of communicating effectively both technically and theoretically in various context and with various related parties, thus sharing new knowledge with other researchers.

PEO 4 – To produce PhD students who are ethically professional with high integrity and able to adapt to changes in environment and practice lifelong learning.

PLO 1: Demonstrate excellent ability to conduct scientific research.

PLO 2: Possess practical knowledge and skills in scientific data analysis.

PLO 3: Critically review ideas and issues constructively.

PLO 4: Demonstrate exemplary leadership and practice ethical standards in intellectual discourse.

PLO 5: Communicate ideas clearly and systematically adhering to scholarly principles.

PLO 6: Plan and implement solutions to solve scientific problems.

PLO 7: Possess high ability to work independently and inculcating a lifelong learning culture.

PLO 8: Develop and manage scientific research plans for effective implementation.

  1. What is the aim of the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) programme at OUM?
    The aim of this programme is to create an opportunity for developing scientific research skills among working adults in research institutions and industries.
  2. What does the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) programme at OUM offer me?
    In terms of learning outcomes, learners who successfully complete this programme at OUM can expect to be able to:
    • Demonstrate excellent ability to conduct scientific research
    • Possess practical knowledge and skills in scientific data analysis
    • Critically review ideas and issues constructively
    • Demonstrate exemplary leadership and practise ethical standards in intellectual discourse
    • Communicate ideas clearly and systematically by adhering to scholarly principles
    • Plan and implement solutions to solve scientific problems
    • Possess high ability to work independently and inculcating a lifelong learning culture
    • Develop and manage scientific research plans for effective implementation.
  3. Who should apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) programme?
    If you are interested in scientific research, passionate about creating fresh knowledge, discovering new things, seeking a greater depth of knowledge in a specific area in science and developing a new set of skills, then you should seriously consider applying for this programme. Furthermore, the transferable skills honed in this programme are highly valued by employers.

  4. What is the fee for the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) programme?
    The total fee for the entire programme can be found here: https://www.oum.edu.my/all-programmes/postgraduate-programme/doctor-of-philosophy-science/#1621666338602-6a40768d-032d
    Fees are subject to change without prior notice.
  5. What is the entry requirement into the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) programme?
    The entry requirement is a Master’s degree in Science or its equivalent. However, acceptance of a student into this programme is subject to the approval of the Postgraduate Committee.

  6. How soon will it take me to complete the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) programme?
    It will take you a minimum of 4 years to complete this programme.

  7. Is this programme recognized by the Malaysian government?
    PhD (Science) (A 6754 ) is fully accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).
  8. What are my potential career options after graduating from this programme?
    Doctoral graduates from this programme may opt for careers in academia, consulting or research, as well as undertake specialist roles in areas related to science in universities, research institutes, and industrial R&D laboratories.

  9. What are the courses offered in the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) programme?
    The courses offered are as follows:
    • Research methodology
    • Proposal defence
    • Doctoral Seminar
    • Thesis writing/Dissertation.A brief write-up on each of these courses can be found under “Programme Structure” at the following link: https://www.oum.edu.my/demo/doctor-of-philosophy-science/
  10. How is this programme delivered?
    This programme is delivered in an online mode. In addition to virtual e-tutorials for certain sessions, students are able to interact with their peers and their facilitator/supervisor though the online platform.
  11. How will I be evaluated in the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) programme ?
    Sem/YearCourse CodeCourse NameEvaluation Method
    1/1SPRM7103Research MethodologyAssignment (Research Proposal)
    2-4/1-2SPPD7103Proposal DefensePresentation & Research Report
    5-6/2-3SPDS7103Doctoral SeminarPresentation & Research Report
    6-12/3&4SPTS7103ThesisViva Voce
  12. When can I join the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) programme?
    This programme accepts student intakes in the January, May and September semesters.

  13. I’ve decided I want to pursue the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) programme at OUM. How do I apply?
    Apply online at http://cms-portal.oum.edu.my/
    Alternatively, visit any of OUM’s Learning Centres (LCs) located throughout the country for guidance. For info on the LCs, go to https://www.oum.edu.my/learning-centres/
  14. Are course materials provided by OUM?
    All courses materials will be provided by OUM. In addition, learners may use OUM’s physical and digital libraries to access a wide range of learning materials.
  15. Whom should I contact if I need to find out more about the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) programme?
    For academic-related enquiries related to Doctor of Philosophy (Science) programme , please email Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thirumeni at thirumeni@oum.edu.my.
    For general enquiries on OUM programmes, email the Marketing Unit at admission@oum.edu.my .

⃰ All information contained in this FAQ are subject to revision without prior notice

Below is a table outlining common career fields for graduates with a Doctor of Philosophy (Science) degree, along with examples of career opportunities in each field:

Career FieldExamples of Career Opportunities
Academia/Research1. University Professor
2. Research Scientist
3. Postdoctoral Researcher
Industry1. R&D Scientist/Engineer
2. Data Scientist/Analyst
3. Pharmaceutical Research Scientist
Government1. Scientific Policy Advisor
2. Environmental Scientist
3. Research Analyst in Government Agencies
Healthcare and Biotechnology1. Medical Science Liaison
2. Biotechnology Researcher
3. Clinical Research Scientist
Environmental Science1. Environmental Consultant
2. Conservation Scientist
3. Climate Change Analyst
Technology and IT1. Artificial Intelligence Researcher
2. Machine Learning Engineer
3. Computer Vision Scientist
Data Science and Analytics1. Data Scientist
2. Business Intelligence Analyst
3. Quantitative Analyst
Consulting1. Management Consultant
2. Scientific Advisor for Consulting Firms
3. Technology Strategy Consultant
Science Communication1. Science Writer/Editor
2. Science Communicator/Presenter
3. Public Relations Specialist for Scientific Organizations
Policy and Advocacy1. Science Policy Analyst
2. Advocacy and Outreach Coordinator
3. Government Relations Specialist

Please note that these examples are not exhaustive, and individuals with a Ph.D. in Science may find opportunities in diverse fields based on their specific expertise and interests. Additionally, the titles and roles may vary across regions and organizations.

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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