Contribute to the Frontiers of Knowledge with A Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Computer Science
The PhD (CS) program is the highest degree in DSE, FUSST. It follows a sequence of programs from BSCS, to MSCS, and culminating in PhD (CS). The program comprises coursework and research work with a heavy emphasis on thesis and research outcomes. The research papers published by our graduates have been published in leading X and W category journals, in addition to conference papers. Our graduates have filed patents with IPO, Pakistan, contributing to the knowledge economy. The thesis is supervised by our faculty members who hold international and national qualifications and are actively engaged in research. The PHD (CS) program is a 3 years to 8 years program.
Program Manager Post Graduate Programs (PMPG)
Department of Software Engineering
Foundation University School of Science and Technology
Graduates of the PhD (CS) program are prepared for roles such as:
- Computer scientists
- Researchers including research fellows and Post-doc fellows
- Academica
Degree Credits Distribution
| # | Course Type | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elective Courses | 18 Credits |
| 2 | Thesis | 18 Credits |
| 3 | Fehm-e-Quran (Muslim Students Only) | 02 Credits |
| 4 | *Research Methods (CSC 7001) (Required to pass if not studied in MS) | NC |
| Total | 38 Credits | |
To download the Study Plan of PhD (CS) Program, click here.
Assessments
Students are assessed based on assignments, quizzes, projects, presentations, oral examinations, and written examinations. Students must maintain a 70% (C+ grade) in all courses. The distribution of marks is:
- Sessional (Assignments, Quizzes, Projects, and Presentations) = 30%.
- Midterm Exam = 20%.
- Final term exam = 50%.
- For admission into the PhD program, a minimum CGPA of 3.0 (out of 4.0 in the Semester System) or First Division (in the Annual System) in M.Phil./MS/Equivalent is required.
The PhD (CS) program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering key areas of computer science.
- Data Mining
- Wisdom Mining
- Machine Learning
- Deep Learning
- Web Services
- Research Methods
- Software Engineering
- Information Technology
List of Core Courses of the program are:
- No Core Courses
Registration in “Thesis” is allowed provided the student has
- Have passed the course work and the comprehensive exam
- Passed the “Research Methodology” course; AND CGPA is atleast 3.0
To become eligible for award of PhD (CS) degree, a student must satisfy the following requirements:
- Must have earned CGPA of at least 3.0 on a scale of 4.0.
- Must have studied and passed the prescribed courses, totaling at least 18 credit hours.
- Must have passed the Comprehensive Exam with atleast 65% marks aggregate.
- Must have passed synopsis and be registered with the supervisor in BASAR.
- Must have published at least one paper with the scholar as the first author in an HEC W category Journal OR Must have published at least two papers with the scholar as the first author in an HEC X category Journal
- Must deliver one successful doctoral seminar
- Must have passed local and foreign review
- Must pass the thesis defense
- The HEC AI usage and Plagiarism policy is followed in letter and spirit.
Mission of PhD (CS) Program
The mission of the PhD (Computer Science) program is to equip students with theoretical and applied knowledge of software for the solution of complex problems. It is aimed to prepare the students to learn independently in a constantly evolving discipline. This mission is derived from the mission of the department. The specific Program Educational Objectives are given in the following sub-section.
Program Education Outcomes
- PEO1: Advancement of Knowledge
Impart in-depth knowledge to investigate research problems through a systematic approach and enhance critical thinking skills to analyze complex problems. - PEO2: Research Excellence
Enable students to produce publishable research for journals and conferences of international repute, contributing new insights to the scientific community. - PEO3: Career Progress
Prepare students for a career in academia, industry research, or other professional roles by gaining theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Program Learning Outcomes
- PLO1: Students will be able to demonstrate specialized knowledge and will be able to utilize appropriate research methodology in the relevant field of study.
- PLO2: Students will be able to conduct systematic and focused research.
- PLO3: Students will be able to publish research papers in journals and conferences of international repute.
- PLO4: Students will be able to conduct and supervise independent research and produce knowledge.
Program Highlights
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Gain a strong foundation in programming, algorithms, database systems, software engineering, and computer networks.
- Emerging Technologies: Explore advanced areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.
- Practical Learning: Apply theoretical knowledge through hands-on labs, software development projects, and industry-driven assignments.
- Career Readiness: Develop technical, analytical, and communication skills to excel in diverse IT and software development roles.
- Research & Innovation: Engage in research and final-year projects that address real-world computing challenges and emerging technological trends.
Who Should Apply?
- Are passionate about technology, innovation, and problem-solving.
- Aspire to pursue careers academics and research
- Are eager to contribute to shaping the future of technology and digital transformation.