Program Overview

Doctor of Computing

The Doctor of Computing is a research-intensive programme that bridges theory and practice to address critical challenges in computing and information technology. Through advanced coursework and an original doctoral thesis, students will specialise in one or more specific areas of computing, such as artificial intelligence (AI), data science, software engineering, cybersecurity, networking, Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, cloud computing, human-computer interaction, digital forensics, technology-enhanced learning, AI ethics, data sovereignty, and responsible computing.

Programme Overview

The programme is designed for experienced computing professionals aiming to tackle real-world challenges through applied research. With a focus on innovation, AI, and emerging technologies, this programme significantly empowers students to impact their specialist field.

Programme Details

• Level: 10
• Credits: 360 (3.0 EFTS)
• Campus: Mt Albert
• Start dates: February or July
• Duration: Full-time for three years or part-time for four to six years

Highlights

• Cutting-Edge Research – Investigate contemporary topics in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, data analytics, and more.
• Industry & Academic Collaboration – Work closely with supervisors, industry leaders, and academic experts.
• Flexible Learning – Study full-time or part-time with a blend of online, seminar-based, and independent research.
• Applied Focus – Conduct research with real-world applications, ensuring practical relevance in professional settings.
• Leadership Development – Gain strategic insights and research expertise to lead digital transformation initiatives.
• Cultural & Ethical Integration – Address computing challenges while incorporating principles of sustainability, innovation, and biculturalism.

Doctoral Study Framework

The programme begins with three advanced courses that develop research skills before transitioning into the thesis phase:

• Critical Issues in Professional Practice – Conduct a pilot study and explore key challenges in computing.
• Research Development – Design a rigorous research proposal and define the roadmap for the thesis.
• Advanced Scholarly Inquiry – Critically assess existing research to establish the foundation for the study.
• Doctoral Thesis – Undertake original, high-impact research in a specialist area of computing, guided by experienced supervisors and industry leaders.

Career Options

• AI Ethics and Policy Advisor
• AI Specialist
• Chief Technology Officer
• Cybersecurity Manager/Expert
• Data Scientist
• Digital Forensics Analyst
• HCI Specialist
• IoT Engineer
• Research & Development Lead
• Research Scientist/Lecturer
• Software Architect
• Tech Startup Founder
• Technology-Enhanced Learning Specialist

Annual Tuition Fees

• Domestic/NZ students: $7950 (approximate fees only - includes GST but excludes the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) levy)
• International students: $9,915 (NZD) (approximate fees for 120 credits)

Semester Dates

• Sem 1 2026: 23 Feb – 28 Jun
• Sem 2 2026: 20 Jul – 22 Nov

Admission Requirements

Domestic Students

General Admission

Applicants must have at least three years of appropriate professional experience relevant to the discipline in which the doctorate is to be undertaken, and have:

• Qualified for, or been awarded, a master's degree in the same or similar discipline with not less than upper second-class honours or equivalent
• Been awarded an honours degree of four years duration in the same or similar discipline with at least an A- average, and which includes a research project
• Been awarded a postgraduate diploma in the same or similar discipline and be able to demonstrate, through substantial industry reports or other research publications, analytical and critical thinking skills and data interpretation
• Other qualifications may be recognised as equivalent at the discretion of the relevant Programme Committee And meet one of the English Entry requirements:
• Have achieved a minimum standard of English as demonstrated by at least 8 credits at NCEA Level 2 in English (4 in Reading, 4 in Writing)
• Evidence of English language proficiency as outlined in the NZQA Rules on the Unitec English Language Requirements for International Students Web-page

Non-Academic Requirements

• When applying for this programme, students will need to provide proof of their identity (ID) and other documents such as academic certificates

International Students

General Admission

Applicants must have at least three years of appropriate professional experience relevant to the discipline in which the doctorate is to be undertaken, and have:

• Qualified for, or been awarded, a master's degree in the same or similar discipline with not less than upper second-class honours, or equivalent
• Been awarded an honours degree of four years duration in the same or similar discipline with at least an A- average, and which includes a research project
• Been awarded a postgraduate diploma in the same or similar discipline and be able to demonstrate, through substantial industry reports or other research publications, analytical and critical thinking skills and data interpretation
• Other qualifications may be recognised as equivalent at the discretion of the relevant Programme Committee And English Entry Requirement:
• Evidence of an IELTS (Academic) band score of at least 6.5 with no band score lower than 6
• Evidence of English language proficiency as outlined in the NZQA Rules on the Unitec English Language Requirements for International Students Web-page

Non-Academic Requirements

• When applying for this programme, students will need to provide proof of their identity (ID) and other documents such as academic certificates

Courses and Timetables

Compulsory Courses

• Critical Issues in Professional Practice (ISCG1001): 60.0 credits (0.500 EFTS) - To allow participants to explore theoretical and practical issues in their profession.
• Research Development (ISCG1002): 30.0 credits (0.250 EFTS) - To enable participants to develop a critical understanding of research in their field of computing and advance their professional research capabilities.
• Advanced Scholarly Inquiry (ISCG1003): 30.0 credits (0.250 EFTS) - To allow participants to critically engage with the literature/information relevant to their research topics.
• Doctoral Thesis: Undertake original, high-impact research in a specialist area of computing, guided by experienced supervisors and industry leaders.