PhD in Information Technology

Program Mission

To produce high-quality professionals and scientists in the field of information technology. The program provides its graduates with sufficient knowledge, skills, and values to empower various segments of the society.

Program Goals

  • Produce researchers and decision makers specialized in Information Technology.
  • Produce graduates who could comprehend, investigate, and solve IT related problems, through effective solutions.
  • Establish collaboration among public and private organizations.

Program Learning Outcomes:

Knowledge and understanding

  • K1: Recognize advanced knowledge and theories within the area of specialization Skills

Skills

  • S1: Apply leading theories and concepts to solve complex problems
  • S2: Critically review research literature to identify research gaps
  • S3: Communicate effectively to disseminate original knowledge and new insights

Values

  • V1:Demonstrate high value of integrity and ethical behavior

Graduates Attributes

  • GA1. Critical thinking
  • GA2. Effective communication
  • GA3. Advanced research skills
  • GA4. Technical expertise
  • GA5. Lifelong learning
  • GA6. Ethical awareness

Admission Requirements

Required Major

Hold the requisite degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Systems, Information Technology, or another approved field of computing

Minimum GPA

Have a cumulative GPA of at least a “B”.

Aptitude Test

Required

General Aptitude Test for Graduates

Minimum score of (80) or GRE (146) with a minimum quantitative part or equivalent score.

English Language Proficiency Test

Required — TOEFL (500) or equivalent.

Employer’s Approval

Required for full-time applicants.

Admission Process:

Applicants qualified for admission to a PhD program who receive at least 75% consideration per the following criteria qualify for preferential admission based on the number of available spaces:

  • (20% consideration): General Aptitude Test (GAT) score.
  • (30% consideration): Score on the written exam administered by the department.
  • (30% consideration): Master’s degree GPA score.
    • (20% consideration): Research the potential of the applicant based on:
      • a. Written submission by the applicant of the applicant’s objective of study (i.e., statement of purpose)
      • b. Prior research contributions of the applicant in terms of publications, participation in scientific research events, and research contributions within a program specialization
Admission Decision:

Admission is based on the total competitive score, and approval of the department council is required.

A minimum of 75% of the total score is required for acceptance.

The department council can accept less than this score.

Apply

Proceed to the online application portal.

Program Administration

Prof. Tareq Ahmed

Prof. Dr. Tarek Ahmed

Professor

Program coordinator

tmahmad@kau.edu.sa

Dr. Manal Kalkatawi

Dr. Manal Kalkatawi

Associate professor

Program Director

mkalkatawi@kau.edu.sa