Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Research)

MQA/FA6352

Online Application

The Department of Psychology offers a PhD programme that leads to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. This programme is by Research Only (80 credit hours), and student could either register on a full-time or part-time basis. Full-time candidature normally takes three to four years while part-time candidature is five years.

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Applications are welcomed all year round; however, our intakes are in September and February.

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Based on the student’s research interest, the Postgraduate Committee will appoint suitable Principal and Co-Supervisors who will work with the student throughout the candidature. Prospective graduate students can find information on the academics’ research areas here. It is highly recommended that students to contact the potential supervisors prior to starting the application process. For details on research work such as how to apply for the programme, how to register, criteria of the thesis, language of the thesis, and etc., please refer to the Centre for Postgraduate Studies.

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​Entry Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in the relevant discipline with good grades from institutions recognised by the Senate of the University.

• Master’s degree in relevant discipline or its equivalent with good grades.

• English proficiency levels: Minimum score on IIUM's English Placement Test (EPT) - Band 6; or IELTS - Band 6; or TOEFL paper based - 550.

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Notes: 

• A good grade is normally interpreted as a minimum cumulative grade points average (CGPA) of 3.0 on the scale of 4 or its equivalent.

• To comply with the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) Programme Standard: Psychology (Ref: Circular No. 5/2013 and Circular Letter No. 2/2016), please be advised that admission to a programme that is different from undergraduate field of study requires the completion of prerequisite courses AND a comprehensive examination before applicants will be permitted to begin graduate level programme. (The pre-requisite courses include Introduction to Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Personality Psychology, Psychological Statistics, Social Psychology, Physiological Psychology, Research Methodology, Cognitive Psychology, Psychometric Principles/Psychological Assessment, Abnormal Psychology, or any other courses at the discretion of the Head of Department).

• Students are required to provide evidence of English proficiency by submitting their proficiency certificates before the beginning of the programme. The IIUM-administered English Placement Test (EPT) may be required when necessary.

• Candidates who do not obtain the required proficiency but are still interested to join the programme must take pre-sessional English courses at the university's Centre for Languages (CELPAD) or other recognised institutions.

• Information on course fees and policies can be found on Finance Division page here.

• For other information on financial matters and assistance, please contact the Student Unit, Finance Division.