PhD in Information Systems

The Singapore Management University (SMU) PhD in Information Systems programme develops researchers and educators who address deep technology challenges in real information systems that impact business processes or management, or who develop tools and methodologies. Our faculty members consistently publish in top-tier business journals and win awards with our PhD students in internationally-renowned conferences.

There are five niche areas of research concentration, namely: Cybersecurity, Data Management & Analytics; Information Systems & Management; Intelligent Systems & Decision Analytics; and Cyber-Physical Systems.

Our graduates are trained to collaborate with researchers from different disciplines. They are also trained in design technology solutions for real-world problems and applications, and produce top-rated academic publications. The programme equips them for careers with research and development laboratories, academia and industry.

PhD in Information Systems Programme Structure

The PhD in Information Systems is a full-time programme, with a maximum candidature of five years. In the first two years of study, students will enrol in intensive courses to build their research depth and breadth. The coursework is intended to prepare students for dissertation research. Students are required to sit for a PhD Qualifying Examination (QE) to assess their mastery of fundamental concepts and theories. On successful completion of the QE, the student will be ready to embark on the dissertation, which is based on original, independent research.

Framework

• Coursework (6 Course Units)
• Empirical Research Projects (4 Course Units)
• Advanced Research Topics (2 Course Units)
• Dissertation (28 Course Units)

Oral Defence of the Dissertation Proposal

This is an oral presentation of the proposed topic to a Dissertation Committee. A written dissertation proposal will have to be submitted before the presentation. A supervisor, with the expertise in the chosen topic, will be appointed. He or she guides and mentors the student throughout the dissertation work.

Oral Defence and Completion of the PhD Dissertation

This is an oral presentation of the written dissertation report to the Committee. After possible revision(s) to the report and upon fulfillment of all necessary requirements, the Committee will recommend to the University to award the PhD degree.

Admission Requirements

• At least a good Bachelor’s degree
• Good GRE or GMAT results
• Good TOEFL or IELTS scores (for applicants whose medium of instruction at the Bachelor’s/Master’s level was not in English)

PhD Students’ Professional Development

Students are also provided professional training. These include teaching, English communications and presentation skills, as well as career development workshops such as interview preparation. Furthermore, students also have opportunities to share their research contributions with the international research community through reputable refereed research conferences, in Singapore and abroad. SMU provides funding for our students to attend such conferences.