The Ph.D. in Computer Engineering program is designed for candidates seeking to contribute original research to the computing discipline. It blends theoretical foundations with practical skills in areas like AI, distributed computing, data systems, software engineering, and speech technologies. Graduates are expected to lead innovation across academia, industry, and technology-driven enterprises.
The program emphasizes research-led learning, enabling students to explore emerging technologies while preparing high-impact scholarly work.
The program is structured into eight semesters:
Semesters 1–3: Focus on completing core, technical, and free electives
Semester 4: Includes the doctoral seminar and qualification exam
Semesters 5–8: Dedicated to thesis research and development
MGMT604 – Advanced Research Methods
Introduces scientific research principles and quantitative/behavioral approaches. Covers data collection, analysis, and research design through individual and group projects.
Credits: 3 | ECTS: 10
CEN630 – Seminar in Computer Engineering
A non-credit course focused on the development and presentation of an academic research paper by the student.
Credits: 0 | ECTS: 20
QUAL600 – Qualification Exam
Students must demonstrate mastery of core areas and research readiness before proceeding to thesis work.
Credits: 0 | ECTS: 30
MS601 – Ph.D. Thesis
Conducted under supervision from the fifth semester onward. Students select a research topic, conduct original investigation, and submit a doctoral dissertation.
Credits: 0 | ECTS: 30 per semester (4 semesters total)
CEN613 – Speech Processing
Topics: Speech models, synthesis, recognition (DTW, HMM), and neural networks for speech.
Credits: 3 | ECTS: 10
CEN621 – Advanced Topics in AI
Focuses on mathematical foundations and projects in AI/ML. Requires strong background in calculus, probability, and programming.
Credits: 3 | ECTS: 10
CEN622 – Advanced Topics in Software Systems
Emphasis on embedded systems and sensor networks. Includes group projects and in-class presentations.
Credits: 3 | ECTS: 10
CEN623 – Distributed Computing
Covers peer-to-peer computing, system robustness, and self-organizing architectures.
Credits: 3 | ECTS: 10
CEN624 – Advanced Programming
Focus on data sharing, adaptive query processing, and Semantic Web architectures.
Credits: 3 | ECTS: 10
CEN625 – Advanced Topics in IT
Covers current trends in information technology, including organizational and human factors.
Credits: 3 | ECTS: 10
CEN650 – Advanced Topics in Database Systems
Topics include concurrency control, query optimization, and data modeling.
Credits: 3 | ECTS: 10
Students may choose from approved university-wide elective courses that complement their research interests or technical skills.
To graduate, students must:
Complete a minimum of 240 ECTS
Pass all core, technical, and free elective courses with satisfactory grades
Complete and present the doctoral seminar
Pass the qualification exam
Conduct original research and submit a doctoral thesis
Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00
Successfully defend their thesis before an academic jury
Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, IT, or a closely related field
Official transcripts and degree certificates
Valid passport or ID
Updated CV or academic portfolio
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
Research proposal (recommended)
Coursework: Based on exams, assignments, presentations, and project work
Seminar: Evaluation of research content and delivery
Qualification Exam: Oral and/or written testing of research readiness
Thesis: Evaluated through continuous progress and a final defense
Minimum Passing Grade: C
Ph.D. graduates are prepared for:
Academic and postdoctoral positions
Senior R&D roles in tech firms and labs
Consulting roles in data systems, AI, and cybersecurity
Government or defense research organizations
Leadership in tech startups or enterprise innovation teams
Deep expertise in AI, systems, and software engineering
Mentorship from experienced faculty
Opportunity to present and publish academic work
Access to advanced research labs and collaborative projects
Flexibility to pursue interdisciplinary research interests
Founded in 1985, GAU is Cyprus’s first private university, recognized globally for its innovative education and international reach. With a presence across three continents, GAU focuses on accessibility, relevance, and excellence, shaping students into global leaders.
The Ph.D. in Computer Engineering is a research-driven program that develops scholars, innovators, and technical leaders equipped to shape the future of computing. With a strong foundation in core areas and the flexibility to specialize through electives, students emerge as confident researchers ready to make lasting contributions in academia and industry.
An NCC Accredited Institute, We are committed to groom the youth of society to play an instrumental role in ever evolving modern day job market and entrepreneurial opportunities.
