AI-Driven Research
Lead the Next Wave of AI and Computing Innovation
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science and Engineering is built for professionals who want more than technical knowledge. It is designed for those who want to create original research, influence the future of intelligent systems, and position themselves as high-level experts in artificial intelligence, software engineering, and digital transformation.
At EIM, you study fully online while developing a doctoral profile that combines academic depth with real-world relevance. From machine learning and automation to advanced engineering systems, this programme helps you turn ambition into recognised expertise.
For Ambitious Professionals
Built for Researchers, Engineers, and Future Tech Leaders
This programme is ideal for software engineers, AI specialists, data professionals, technical managers, and founders who want to move into research-led leadership. It is also a strong choice for aspiring academics who want to publish, teach, and contribute to the evolution of computer science.
You do not need to pause your career to earn a doctorate. The online format gives you the flexibility to continue building your professional path while developing a research portfolio with long-term academic and commercial value.
Research the Systems That Will Shape Tomorrow.
From AI to advanced computing, your ideas can become the work that defines what comes next.
Programme fee
The Standard programme starts at EUR 3,000 admission plus EUR 3,000 per quarter (expected total: EUR 39,000 for 12 quarters). The Individual option with private tutoring starts at EUR 4,000 admission plus EUR 4,500 per quarter (expected total: EUR 58,000). Flexible payment plans and scholarship support are available — contact admission@eim.education for details.
Entry Requirements
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Master’s degree (MQF level 7 qualification) or distinction profile of Bachelor degree (MQF level 6 qualification)
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Proficient working level of English in understanding and speaking, reading and writing
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Basic digital competencies to work with the institutions´ digital learning platform
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Excellent personal motivation
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Excellent team work
Applicants that do not comply with indicated requirements can request for a of Recognition of Prior Learning
Ready to Research, Publish, and Lead in AI?
Take the next step towards a doctoral qualification that aligns with the future of technology. Apply now or request a personal consultation with our admissions team.
Career Acceleration
Turn Technical Excellence into Strategic Career Advantage
A doctoral degree in Computer Science and Engineering signals advanced problem-solving ability, research capability, and innovation leadership. Graduates are positioned for senior roles in R&D, higher education, advanced product development, consulting, and AI-driven transformation projects.
In a market where organisations are searching for experts who can combine technical depth with strategic vision, this PhD helps you stand out with authority, credibility, and original contribution.
Free and without obligation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
This programme is designed for software engineers, AI professionals, data specialists, researchers, technical leaders, founders, and aspiring academics who want to build doctoral-level expertise in computing and innovation.
Yes. The online delivery model is built for flexibility, making it possible to continue your career while developing a serious research profile in computer science and engineering.
Potential research directions include artificial intelligence, machine learning, software engineering, intelligent systems, data science, automation, digital transformation, and emerging computing technologies.
As AI changes every sector, organisations need leaders who can evaluate, design, and advance intelligent technologies. This PhD helps you build the research credibility and strategic depth to shape that future.
Total Learning Hours
| Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science and Engineering | |
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Hours of Learning (Module 1-3) |
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Hours of Learning (Module 4) |
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Hours of Learning (Module 5-6) |
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| Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science and Engineering | |
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| Hours of Total Learning for the whole PhD programme |
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Hours of Learning (Module 1-3) |
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Hours of Learning (Module 4) |
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Hours of Learning (Module 5-6) |
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| Requirement/Headline | Content |
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| Name of the Educational Programme | Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science and Engineering (PhD in CSE) |
| Exit Qualifications |
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science and Engineering (PhD in CSE) |
| Accredited Status of the Programme | Approved Higher Education Programme by MFHEA |
| MQF / EQF level | 8 |
| Proposed ECTS | 180 |
| Type of Programme | Qualification |
| Mode of Delivery | Online |
Teaching and Learning Procedures
The core pedagogical method used in this course will consist of synchronous online Oxbridge-style tutorials between a faculty member, or a learning coach under the oversight of a faculty member (= tutors), and a group of learners. Learner interaction plays a key role in the organisation of each tutorial meeting, which focuses on a discussion of a learner’s pre-submitted assignment.
Assessment Procedures
Formative assessment applies to the continuous evaluation of learner progress in each module, concentrating on the proficiency of submitted tutorial assignments, and the ability of the learner to respond to issues raised by the faculty member / lecturer during the tutorial session.
Summative assessment is by the final dissertation (at least 60,000 words) and an oral defense thereof (90 minutes individual presentation followed by a 45 minute questions and answers session).
Grading System Final Dissertation:
- Distinction (80–100%)
- Merit (65–79%)
- Pass (50–64%)
- Fail (0–49%)
Online
| Mode of Attendance | Full-Time and Part-Time |
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| Programme Duration | 36 months (full-time) and up to 48–84 months (part-time) |
| Target Group | The PhD programme is specifically designed for individuals with professional backgrounds in the CSE industry. This includes three primary groups: (1) experienced CSE professionals seeking to deepen their academic engagement and contribute to knowledge production in their field; (2) CSE academics and educators who do not yet hold a doctoral degree and aim to strengthen their academic qualifications for leadership roles in teaching, research, and institutional development; and (3) professionals currently working in CSE who are planning a career transition into academic, research, or consultancy roles within the CSE sector. |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Competences |
At the end of the course/program, the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:
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Knowledge |
At the end of the course/program, the learners will be able to:
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Skills |
At the end of the course/program, the learners will have acquired the following skills:
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Academic Qualifications: A Master’s degree (MQF Level 7 or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, such as science, engineering, IT, or other technology-related fields at Merit level (or equivalent international standard). Where an applicant falls below the minimum performance threshold, the programme may consider admission only in cases when the applicant presents strong evidence of research capability and demonstrates suitability at interview.
Language Proficiency: Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.5 (or CEFR C1) or higher.
Digital Competences: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient digital literacy to participate in EIM’s online learning environment, based on Google Education Suite and other research platforms. Digital competence may be assessed through practical demonstration or prior certification.
There are three semesters per year, available for both full-time and part-time options.
Structure of the program – full-time
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Semester 1 |
Introduction to Doctoral Research in Computer Science and Engineering and Contemporary Issues in Computer Science and Engineering |
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Semester 2 |
Advanced Research Methods in Computer Science and Engineering |
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Semester 2-3 |
Proposal Development |
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Semester 4-6 |
Final Study Development 1 |
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Semester 7-9 |
Final Study Development 2 |
Structure of the program – part-time
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Semester 1 |
Introduction to Doctoral Research in Computer Science and Engineering |
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Semester 2 |
Contemporary Issues in Computer Science and Engineering |
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Semester 3 |
Advanced Research Methods in Computer Science and Engineering |
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Semester 4-6 |
Proposal Development |
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Semester 7-12 |
Final Study Development 1 |
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Semester 13-18 |
Final Study Development 2 |
PhD students in Computer Science and Engineering can write their dissertations on topics and subject areas such as, for example, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, software engineering, computer systems, cybersecurity, computer networks, cloud computing, human-computer interaction, robotics, embedded systems, the Internet of Things, computational engineering, digital transformation, information systems, technology innovation, intelligent automation, high-performance computing, computer vision, natural language processing, or other topics that match their academic interests and research goals.
This programme does not directly lead to a warranted profession or regulated occupation.
Graduates of this PhD program in CSE are prepared for high-level academic, research, and professional roles that require critical expertise, leadership, and advanced research competencies. The following occupations reflect the typical career pathways, aligned with the European Skills, Competences, Qualifications and Occupations (ESCO) framework, the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), and international academic and research standards in Theology:
- Academic Positions in Higher Education
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Professor / Lecturer / Senior Academic in Theology
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Program Director / Curriculum Developer
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Dean or Academic Manager in the Theology Faculties
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Aligned with EHEA and the European Framework for the Academic Profession, requiring doctoral-level qualifications and demonstrated capacity for original research, teaching, and academic leadership.
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Research and Innovation in Theology
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Research Scientist in Theology
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Principal Investigator in Theology
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Research Director / Coordinator in Theology
Referencing the European Charter for Researchers and ESCO occupations, graduates will be capable of conducting independent, innovative, and ethically sound research in Theology fields.
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Education and Training in Theology
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Head of Training and Development in Institutions of Theology
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Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Specialist
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Simulation Specialist / Educator in Theology
Aligned with ESCO, emphasizing pedagogical knowledge, adult learning principles, and evidence-based instructional design.
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Management and Policy Leadership in Theology
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Strategy Advisor in Digital/AI
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Technology Policy Analyst / Consultant
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Digital Systems Development Specialist
Aligned with EQF Level 8 leadership descriptors and with ESCO/ISCO managerial pathways for ICT, including ISCO 1330 ICT service managers. Doctoral graduates contribute to strategic planning, standards, and evidence-based digital policy.
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Consultancy and Professional Practice
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Independent Consultant in Theology
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Accreditation and Quality Assurance Expert in Theology
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Theology Knowledge Transfer Specialist
Requiring doctoral-level analytical, evaluative, and communication competencies—aligned with MQF Level 8 descriptors and professional frameworks for consultants and knowledge mobilizers in Theology.
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Publishing and Scientific Communication
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Scientific Editor / Peer Reviewer in Theology Journals
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Writer / Theology Policy Communicator
Occupations that require the ability to translate complex Theology research into accessible, high-impact publications. These roles are often found in academic publishing, think tanks, and Theology communication agencies.
The program fees below refer to the current academic year unless otherwise stated. Program fees are calculated per credit taught. Program fees are subject to annual inflation so the total cost are shown here as a guide. EIM will apply the program fees at the time of the payment.
Standard
Admission Fees: EUR 3,000
Programme Fees per quarter: EUR 3,000
Expected Total Programme Fees: EUR 39,000 (for 12 quarters)
Individual (incl. individual tutoring)
Admission Fees: EUR 4,000
Programme Fees per quarter: EUR 4,500
Expected Total Programme Fees: EUR 58,000 (for 12 quarters)
Privé
Please get in touch with admission@eim.education for more information.
Pay your program fees
You can choose to pay your program fees in full at the start of your first term or in instalments at the start of each term. Additional fees may apply for different payment terms, currencies, and methods.
Other fees
The program fees cover the course delivery and the learning material. Other fees may apply for additional services (e.g., fees for RPL applications, resitting an assessment, repeating a module, or additional tutoring etc.).
Get funding for your program
EIM offers support to get access to different funding options like for example scholarships.
Please note: Program fees shown on our website are net of any local VAT, Goods and Services Tax (GST) or any other sales tax payable by the student in their country of residence. Where EIM is required to add VAT, GST or any other sales tax at the local statutory rate, this will be added to the fees shown during the payment process. For students resident in Malta, our program fees are exempt from VAT.