HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY · HONG KONG
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€22k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 3-year or 4-year direct-entry PhD optionsDuration
- Monthly stipend of HK$19,220 (subject to revision and departmental decision)Financial Support
- Conference Attendance Grant of HK$25,000Research Support
- Tuition scholarships available for outstanding academic recordsScholarships
- Strong emphasis on research methodology and specialized subjectsCurriculum Focus
- Global ranking among top universitiesUniversity Standing
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) offers a rigorous research-focused postgraduate experience. The program aims to cultivate students' critical thinking, communication skills, and innovation to make a positive impact globally. PolyU is a world-class research university with a strong history and commitment to advancing knowledge and developing future leaders. The PhD program is available in both a 3-year direct-entry route (requiring a Master's degree with research component and a Bachelor's degree) and a 4-year direct-entry route (requiring a Bachelor's degree or a Master's degree without research component, alongside a Bachelor's degree with First Class Honours or equivalent). Both pathways are designed to equip students with advanced research skills and in-depth knowledge in their chosen fields, culminating in a thesis defence.
Curriculum
The PhD curriculum involves a structured approach to research training, including coursework, seminars, and practical components, alongside the core research and thesis work. The specific requirements vary slightly between the 3-year and 4-year PhD programs.
- Year 1 (Typical)
- Research Methodology Courses
- Specialised Subjects
- Research Seminar Subjects
- Ethics SubjectLGT5R01
- PracticumLGT6222
- English Enhancement Subjects
- E-Learning module on Understanding China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, P.R.C.
- Year 2-3 (3-year PhD) / Year 2-4 (4-year PhD)
- Compulsory PhD Qualification Exam
- Confirmation of Registration
- Thesis Research and Writing
- Thesis Defence
Careers
Graduates are prepared for advanced research positions in academia, industry, and government, contributing to innovation and development in their specialized fields.
- Researcher
- Academic
- Scientist
- Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the PhD program?
- International students are charged HK$200,000 per academic year for tuition. The total estimated living cost, including tuition and other expenses, is HK$287,655 per academic year for the first year.
- What is the duration of the PhD program?
- The PhD program offers both a 3-year direct-entry route for those with a Master's degree and a 4-year direct-entry route for those with a Bachelor's degree or a Master's degree without a research component.
- What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD program?
- For the 3-year PhD, you need a Master's degree with a research component and a Bachelor's degree. For the 4-year PhD, you need a Bachelor's degree or a Master's degree without a research component, plus a Bachelor's degree with First Class Honours or equivalent.
- Are there any standardized test score requirements?
- A GMAT score of 600 or GMAT Focus Edition score of 575, or a GRE score of 150 for verbal reasoning and 162 for quantitative reasoning is required. These scores are not needed for application but must be fulfilled before program registration.
- How do I apply for the PhD program?
- International applicants should apply online through the RPgAdmission System for the Fall intake. You will need to submit required documents, pay the application fee of HKD500, and fulfill language and test requirements before registration.
- What financial support is available for PhD students?
- Students may receive a monthly stipend of HK$19,220 (subject to revision and departmental decision) and a Conference Attendance Grant of HK$25,000. Tuition scholarships are also available for students with outstanding academic records.
Entry requirements
3-Year PhDMaster's degree with research component and a Bachelor's degree.
4-Year PhDBachelor's degree OR Master's degree without research component AND a Bachelor's degree with First Class Honours (or equivalent).
GMAT score of 600 or GMAT Focus Edition score of 575, or GRE score of 150 for verbal reasoning component and 162 for quantitative reasoning component are required. Applicants with scores below these thresholds must demonstrate strong academic records and/or extensive experience to show research potential. GMAT/GRE results are not required at the time of application but must be fulfilled before programme registration.
Fees
Tuition (international)HK$200,000 per academic year
Tuition (home)HK$47,000 per academic year
LivingEstimated HK$287,655 per academic year (includes tuition, university-managed accommodation for the first year, basic meal charges, and personal expenses).
The living cost estimate of HK$287,655 includes HK$200,000 for tuition, HK$17,305 for university accommodation (first year only), HK$52,000 for meals, and HK$18,350 for personal expenses. Accommodation costs for subsequent years and personal expenses may vary. Application Fee: HKD500.
How to apply
1. Submit ApplicationApply online via the RPgAdmission System.
2. Upload DocumentsSubmit all required supporting documents through the online application portal.
3. Pay Application FeePay the application fee of HKD500.
4. Fulfill Language/Test RequirementsEnsure you meet the English language proficiency requirements and submit GMAT/GRE scores if applicable (required before registration).
5. Attend Interview (if applicable)Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview.
6. Receive OfferSuccessful applicants will receive an offer of admission.
7. Programme RegistrationComplete registration, including fulfilling any outstanding GMAT/GRE requirements.
Scholarships
General Tuition ScholarshipsVariable
Fellowship/Scholarship SchemesRefer to GS website
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in the PhD program?
+
International students are charged HK$200,000 per academic year for tuition. The total estimated living cost, including tuition and other expenses, is HK$287,655 per academic year for the first year.
What is the duration of the PhD program?
+
The PhD program offers both a 3-year direct-entry route for those with a Master's degree and a 4-year direct-entry route for those with a Bachelor's degree or a Master's degree without a research component.
What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD program?
+
For the 3-year PhD, you need a Master's degree with a research component and a Bachelor's degree. For the 4-year PhD, you need a Bachelor's degree or a Master's degree without a research component, plus a Bachelor's degree with First Class Honours or equivalent.
Are there any standardized test score requirements?
+
A GMAT score of 600 or GMAT Focus Edition score of 575, or a GRE score of 150 for verbal reasoning and 162 for quantitative reasoning is required. These scores are not needed for application but must be fulfilled before program registration.
How do I apply for the PhD program?
+
International applicants should apply online through the RPgAdmission System for the Fall intake. You will need to submit required documents, pay the application fee of HKD500, and fulfill language and test requirements before registration.
What financial support is available for PhD students?
+
Students may receive a monthly stipend of HK$19,220 (subject to revision and departmental decision) and a Conference Attendance Grant of HK$25,000. Tuition scholarships are also available for students with outstanding academic records.