Programme

Doctor of Philosophy

Programme: Doctor of Philosophy

Award Title: Doctor of Philosophy

Offering Academic Unit: Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences

Mode of Study: Full-time, Part-time

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Credit Units Required for Graduation

14 and SG8001

Programme Aims

This programme aims to train and produce graduates with an understanding of advanced developments and highly marketable specialist skills in disciplines related to advancing the health and welfare of animals, and to meet local and regional requirements in the industrial, commercial, government or education sectors.

Programme Intended Learning Outcomes (PILOs)

Upon successful completion of this Programme, students should be able to:

1. develop intellectual competence necessary for successful academic and professional work;
2. contribute to the generation and development of knowledge in their respective fields through independent, original, and innovative research; and
3. demonstrate specialist subject knowledge and a high level of transferrable skills with an emphasis on advancing animal health.

Programme Requirements

1. Research Areas(s) in which research students will be admitted to:
   Veterinary Sciences


2. Programme Core Courses:
   For a list of available courses, please click HERE.


3. Programme Electives (Electives will be offered subject to sufficient enrollment.)
   For a list of available courses, please click HERE.


4. Qualifying Examination (for PhD only):
   
   PhD Students are required to pass a written Qualifying Examination within 10-24 months (full-time) or 20-48 months (part-time). It is an additional requirement on top of the existing Qualifying Report and Annual Progress Report assessment. A maximum of two attempts are allowed. Those students who cannot pass the Qualifying Examination will result in termination of study. A fixed timetable is set for students to take the Qualifying Examination. No schedule change is allowed under normal circumstances.


5. Qualifying / Annual Report Submission:
   
   Students are required to submit
   
   1. Qualifying Report, of which assessment includes a compulsory oral examination, within 6-12 months (full-time) or 9-18 months (part-time) after commencement of their studies, and
   2. Annual Progress Reports on an annual basis after the qualifying period in compliance with the regulations and guidelines set by SGS accessible via the Guidebook for Research Degree Studies on SGS website.
   
   

   A Qualifying Panel shall be established for each student upon his/her admission. The Panel should consist of at least three faculty members including the student's supervisor who should be the chair. During the entire study period of the student, the Panel will monitor the student's performance and progress through the supervisor, assess the Qualifying Report and Annual Progress Reports submitted by the student at regular intervals, and make a recommendation to SGS about the student's suitability and capability to continue his/her research study.

6. Thesis:
   
   A PhD thesis should present the results of research investigation, give evidence of a sound understanding of the area of study, its context and applicability, make a contribution to knowledge and make a substantial original contribution to knowledge in the subject areas concerned. Students must submit a thesis for examination by the end of their normal study period or the stipulated study period. The thesis examination should include thesis assessment, an oral examination, and any other assessment arrangements required by the Panel of Examiners.


7. Additional Notes:
   
   Students should always refer to the Guidebook for Research Degree Studies available on SGS website for administrative and operational procedures related to research degree studies at the University. The Department may stipulate a higher standard on the requirements.