Faculty of Electronic Engineering & Technology
Doctor of Philosophy
(Communication Engineering)
Programme Code: PhD-CE | Duration: Full-Time 3–5 Years / Part-Time 4–7 Years | By Research
Programme Overview
The Doctor of Philosophy in Communication Engineering is the highest academic qualification at FKTEN UniMAP, offering candidates the opportunity to conduct sustained original research that pushes the boundaries of communication engineering knowledge. Candidates investigate unsolved problems in wireless communications, signal processing, photonic communication, antenna engineering, or next-generation network systems.
Under the mentorship of experienced and internationally published supervisors, PhD candidates engage in a rigorous cycle of literature review, problem formulation, experimental investigation, and scholarly dissemination. Graduates of this programme are equipped to lead research programmes, establish academic careers, or drive R&D at the highest levels of industry.
Programme Highlights
PhD by Research vs Industrial PhD
Doctor of Philosophy (by Research): Full-time (3–5 years) or part-time (4–7 years) thesis-based research under a UniMAP academic supervisor.
Industrial PhD: For Malaysian citizens who are currently employed in industry as an engineer, researcher, or equivalent, holding a Master's degree or First Class Honours degree. The research topic must solve an industrial problem, with a UniMAP main supervisor and an industry co-supervisor, and the research is conducted full-time at the industry partner.
Research Areas
PhD candidates are expected to contribute original knowledge within — but not limited to — the following active research areas at FKTEN:
Finding a Supervisor
Prospective PhD candidates are strongly encouraged to contact potential supervisors directly before submitting an application. Visit the FKTEN staff directory to identify academics whose research interests align with your proposed topic. A well-matched supervisory relationship is critical to PhD success.
Research Proposal Requirements
Applicants must submit a Research Proposal (approx. 2,000 words) covering: background and motivation, problem statement, research objectives, proposed methodology, expected contribution to knowledge, and a preliminary timeline. Proposals are evaluated by a faculty panel prior to admission.
Programme Outcomes
Upon successful completion and thesis defence, graduates will demonstrate:
Career Prospects
A PhD from FKTEN UniMAP opens doors to the highest-level positions in academia, industry research, and national policy. Graduates join a global network of engineering scholars and technology leaders.
Career Destinations
Employers & Institutions
PhD graduates are hired as academic staff by Malaysian public and private universities (UniMAP, UTM, UM, UPM, UiTM), MIMOS, MCMC, STRIDE, and internationally at Ericsson Research, Nokia Bell Labs, Huawei Research, and leading universities in UK, USA, Australia, and Japan.
Programme Details
Entry Requirements
Master's Degree: In a related field from an institution recognised by the University Senate, or an equivalent qualification
Direct Entry (rigorous assessment): Option 1 — at least Grade A- for an individually registered final year project, OR at least 1 year of relevant working experience
Direct Entry — Option 2: An average of at least Grade A- for 12 credit hours of core courses related to the programme, OR for 12 credit hours of third/fourth-year courses related to the programme