This research programme is aimed for future researchers who are extremely excited to explore and discover new concepts, explanations, and ideas in the communication field. This programme caters to the students who possess a strong theoretical background and wish to undertake independent research with the guidance of one or more faculty members.

The research curriculum of the PhD programme consists of an in-depth investigation into specific research issues related to professional communication, with the aim of adding to existing knowledge, as well as contributing new and groundbreaking knowledge to the field.

 Phase 1

Coursework (Two core courses)

• Research Process and Academic Writing
• Research Design and Methodology

Phase 2

Proposal Defence

• Each student must present and defend his/her PhD research proposal. The student is only allowed to continue with his/her research to Phase Ill on passing of the defence of his/her proposal

Phase 3

Data Collection and Thesis Preparation

• The student proceeds to his/her data collection, data analysis and thesis writing

Phase 4

Viva Voce

• After submitting the thesis, the students are required to attend a Viva Voce to defend his/her thesis

Research Proposal

Applicants for Doctor of Philosophy (Professional Communication) programme are required to submit a comprehensive statement of the research which they propose to carry out. The proposal should comprise the following elements:

• Field of research
• Topic of research proposal
• Background or a brief literature review on the research topic
• Objective of study - Explain the objectives that influence the research
• The Methodology of study - Explain the methods used in study
• Work schedule
• Equipment required (where applicable)
• Brief bibliography
• The research proposal should contain between 1,500 - 2,000 words or about four to six (4 - 6) pages

Malaysian Students

• Master's degree accepted by the University Senate or other qualifications as approved by the University Senate

International Students

• Master's degree accepted by the University Senate and pass IELTS with band 6 or better, or TOEFL with a minimum score of 600.

English Competency Requirements

All international students are bound to the English Competency requirement set by the University and the Malaysian Qualification Agency except those who are:

• • From countries where English is the official language; OR
  • From an academic institution which uses English as its main medium of instruction.