PhD by Research

The PhD by Research program aims to produce graduates who have contributed to the body of knowledge in specific fields of study or to have provided innovative, theory-based, systematic, and practical solutions to the significant concerns of specific industries.Graduates will have advanced systematic knowledge and skills applied in a highly specialized or complex multidisciplinary field of professional work, research, and/or further study that require management expertise, innovation, and leadership. Graduates will demonstrate an in-depth understanding of theories and concepts necessary to advance learning and/or professional practice as well as to practice research skills providing a critical perspective of the real-world complex issues related to a specific field of study.

The PhD by Research program aims to hone further the research skill of the candidate, acquired mostly through experience under the professional guidance of specialist(s) in his/her particular area of specialization. The program allows the candidate to earn the degree through submission, and the successful defense of a dissertation, without the usual academic course requirements. The program requires the candidate to devote almost his/her entire residency to research.

Admission Requirements

1. An applicant for admission to graduate work for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) by Research must:

• Be a holder of a Master of Science (MS) degree from a recognized institution in the same area admission to the PhD degree is applied for;

• Have a grade point average of 1.75 or better in the MS degree program;

• Have at least 3 years’ experience in research beyond the MS degree; and

• Have been sole or senior/lead author of at least one published paper in the intended area of specialization (excluding the MS and BS theses) in reputable refereed journals.

2. A duly accomplished application form must be submitted with the following documents:

• Original and photocopy of the Official Transcript of Records, in English language, with no remarks and with an explanation of the grading system used, from all tertiary and graduate institutions attended;

• Photocopy of BS and MS diplomas;

• Certification from the immediate head of the agency that the applicant has at least 3 years of satisfactory research experience;

• Reprints or copies of the applicant’s publications (at least one from reputable journals) wherein the applicant is the sole or senior author;

• Capsule research proposal not exceeding five pages which shall include the title, rationale, objectives, methodology, and references;

• For international students, certification from the office of the University Registrar of Previous University attended that the medium of instruction is English (if applicable), or results of Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or results of the international English Language Testing System (IELTS), or its equivalent;

• Application fee (may be paid by bank transfer or in cash); and

• Sealed letters of references from two former professors, superiors or colleagues, and a letter of reference from the applicant’s former Master’s Degree Adviser.

UPMindanao GS. Form No.2 Application for Admission

UPMindanao GS.Form No. 3 Recommendation Form

Prospectus