As the PhD programme focuses on the applied research addressing issues and challenges pertinent to society, industry or professional practice, apart from joining institutes of higher learning as faculty, graduates from this programme may also join applied research institutions, government agencies or private sectors organisations such as research firms and consultancy firms.

Applicants must have at least a 2nd Upper Class Honours Degree from a reputable university or equivalent qualifications, and will be expected to study full-time in the PhD programme. No separate application to the Scholarship is required. Eligible applicants will be automatically considered for the Scholarship.

For more details on the PhD scholarship, eligibility, terms and conditions, please click here.

1. What is the minimum and maximum period of candidature?
   Minimum is 3 years and maximum is 7 years.
   
   
2. What is the total number of credit units (cu) required for graduation?
   120 cu (80 cu for dissertation; 40 cu for coursework)
   
   
3. What is the graduation requirement?
   Students must attain a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of at least 3.0 for the 40 cu of courses and pass the Qualifying Examination and Oral Defense for the Dissertation Examination.
   
   
4. Will I be assigned a supervisor?
   Yes. A supervisor will be assigned to guide the student. For those pursuing interdisciplinary research, more than one supervisor may be assigned where feasible.
   
   
5. What is a Qualifying Examination?
   The Qualifying Examination consists of a written proposal and an oral presentation of the research proposal.
   
   
6. How much is the tuition fees?
   Please refer to this table.
   
   
7. When are the lessons scheduled for SUSS courses?
   Classes for SUSS courses are generally conducted on weekday evenings from 7pm to 10pm, or on weekends from 8.30am to 5.30pm.
   
   
8. If I am an international student, do I need to apply for visa to come to Singapore?
   The University will provide the necessary information to facilitate the application of student pass. For more information, please click here.
   
   

9. What is the difference between the PhD and DBA?
   The PhD programme is to train researchers in the Social Sciences with an applied focus who can create knowledge, advance professional development and make an impact to society.

   The DBA programme is for business leaders, entrepreneurs, senior management who have curiosity for knowledge, and are willing to develop the structural thinking as a scholar, to make use of evidence-based applied research to answer the business-related questions and optimize the decision making.

“As a real estate consultant, I was concerned about how various emerging technologies would disrupt the built environment and would necessitate massive urban regeneration. The rigors of the academic process may be applied to complex real-world issues to provide solutions which are better considered and more inclusive for all the stakeholders involved. I chose SUSS for their sharp focus on tackling practical real-world problems through a good balance of industry know-how and academic excellence. This program is most enriching for students who want to create new value for industry and for academia. Despite the pressures of deadlines and having to get used to academic language, I am enjoying this journey!”

“My academic journey with SUSS has been nothing short of exciting thus far. The pursuit of knowledge is a life-long endeavour, and this is truly embodied in the ethos of the University. Our world is evolving at breakneck speed. The senior leaders today must have a perceptive world view, which can be honed through the assimilation of theory informed by real practice.

As a working professional, I am truly appreciative for the opportunity to integrate my business experience with my passion for research. At SUSS, we learn from supportive and best-in-class faculty, many of whom are thought-leaders in their respective fields. The high level of academic rigour challenges me to think critically, yet not lose sight of industry relevance. I am confident this research degree will be a feather in my cap, and I look forward to continuing this journey of intellectual exploration with SUSS.”