Program start date | Application deadline |
2024-01-01 | - |
2024-04-01 | - |
2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Computing and Information Science MPhil, PhD
Overview
Our research groups are shaping the world with innovative technologies and applications, often in collaboration with industry. We encourage PhD candidates to take an active role in our School's research community, in areas currently ranging from Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science and Applications, Imaging Technologies, Vision and Acoustics, IoT, Digital Systems and Cloud Computing, Semantic Web, Educational Technologies and Cyber Security.
Full Description
We have a large multidisciplinary academic team ready to support you in your studies working across our two research groups, Computing, Informatics and Applications and Cyber Security and Networking.
Much of the research our Computing, Informatics and Applications (CIA) research group undertakes is both applied and collaborative, and includes links with industrial partners. We’re particularly interested in how computational and artificial intelligence (AI) methods can be used to improve people's lives and increase productivity. The group has specific expertise in image and signal processing, data visualisation, mobile devices, 2D/3D modelling, distributed computing, wireless environments, the application of sound and imaging technology in assisted living, online virtual environments, the Internet of Things (IoT), and sensor technology.
Our Cyber Security and Networking (CSN) research group has close working strategic relationships with industry, professional bodies, law enforcement, government agencies and academia in the delivery of operationally focused applied information and application security research. The primary aims of CSN are to help the UK and partner nations tackle cyber-crime, be more resilient to cyber-attacks and educate its users for a more secure cyberspace and operational business environment. The CSN research group also incorporates a Cisco Networking Academy Programme (CNAP). The goal of which is to bring infrastructure technologies and techniques to a wider audience and research new ways of applying them.
As a postgraduate researcher, you’ll have access to wide-ranging expertise, as well as first-rate computing facilities, at our campus in Cambridge, where you’ll enjoy formal research training as part of our research programme. A significant number of our students choose to pursue their programme part-time, integrating their research degrees with their professional lives. Equally, if you wish to join us full-time, you’ll be part of a group that collaborates with industry on theoretical and applied research, as well as consultancy projects.
There will be opportunities to present your work and represent us at internal, national and international scientific conferences, and you'll be fully immersed in our research activities.
In addition to our Computing and Information Science PhD, we've also identified a range of innovative research project opportunities for you as a postgraduate researcher.
We also offer the opportunity to combine doctoral research with your full-time career, making a substantial contribution to the development of professional practice in your area, through our Professional Doctorate in Science and Engineering DProf.
Completion Times
- MPhil: full-time 1-3 years, part-time 2-4 years.
- PhD via progression from MPhil, including that period: full-time 2.5-5 years, part-time 3.5-6 years.
- PhD: full-time 2-4 years, part-time 3-6 years.
Supervision and Support
We’ll assign supervisors – a primary and relevant specialists – to support you during your research. There’ll be formal two-weekly reviews, with informal help available any time.
Our supervisory staff are recognised experts in their field. Their research expertise includes:
- Prof Marcian Cirstea - Marcian is an active professional in digital systems, focusing on artificial intelligence and the use of computer aided design tools & methods applied to digital systems modelling and rapid prototyping using VHDL and FPGAs.
- Dr Silvia Cirstea - Silvia has over ten years' research experience in mathematical modelling for engineering and medical applications. Her research interests also include acoustic and psycho-acoustic modelling, smart technologies for assisted living, assisted living for the visually impaired and the elderly, signal processing techniques for multimodal data fusion, mobility and navigation aids for the visually impaired and, artificial intelligence.
- Dr Razvan Dinita - Razvan's research focuses on cloud computing software development, optimisation, and security, web and software engineering, web and software security and, programming languages.
- Dr Arooj Fatima - Arooj's research interests include semantic search, knowledge acquisition, effective user interfaces, reliable techniques to evaluate usability and intelligent web applications.
- Dr Cristina Luca - Cristina conducts research in artificial intelligence with particular interests in semantic technologies, machine learning and neural networks. She has 18 years research and teaching experience in the general area of computer science.
- Dr Ian van der Linde - Ian carries out cross-faculty research in the areas of computing, vision and healthcare. His research interests include vision science, image processing, behavioural psychology, eye-tracking and electrophysiology, algorithms and computational methods in psychology.
- Dr George Wilson - George's research interests include all kinds of spatial data manipulation, including image analysis and 3D-gaming.
- Adrian Winkles - Adrian's research focuses on malware detection and digital forensics, computer networking, network and system security, network and system management, virtualisation and cloud computing and, remote laboratory representation.
- Dr Jin Zhang - Jin's research areas include electronic systems modelling, smart antennas, the study and design for development of novel artificial metamaterials components in the mid-infrared range and microwave frequency regions. Also, the design of quasi-optical components for millimetre-wave astronomy and electromagnetic modelling and simulations.
Where You'll Research
Your Faculty
The Faculty of Science & Engineering is one of the largest of the four faculties at ARU. Whether you choose to study with us full-time or part-time, on campus or at a distance, there’s an option whatever your level – from a foundation degree, BSc, MSc, PhD or professional doctorate.
Whichever course you pick, you’ll gain the theory and practical skills needed to progress with confidence. Join us and you could find yourself learning in the very latest laboratories or on field trips or work placements with well-known and respected companies. You may even have the opportunity to study abroad.
Everything we do in the faculty has a singular purpose: to provide a world-class environment to create, share and advance knowledge in science, technology and engineering fields. This is key to all of our futures.
Fees & Funding
Course Fees
- UK students, 2024/25 (per year): £4,786
- UK students, 2024/25 (part-time, per year): £2,392
- International students, 2024/25 (per year): £15,900
- International students, 2024/25 (part-time, per year): £7,950
Bench Fees
In some cases extra costs known as bench fees will be charged for a postgraduate research degree. These are to cover additional/exceptional costs directly related to a specific research project.
Some examples of these costs are (the list is not exhaustive): equipment hire, access costs to specialist equipment/workshops, volunteer expenses, specialist tissue/cell culture, specialist reagents or materials, specialist software, access to specialist databases, data collection costs, specialist media, recording or digital storage needs.
We charge bench fees in bands. They may apply for every year of your course. These bands are the same for full- and part-time students.
If you have to pay bench fees this will be made clear at your interview, and stated in your offer letter.
For 2024/25 the bench fee bands are:
- £500
- £1,200
- £2,200
- £4,500
- £8,900
PhD by Published Work
- Initial registration: £1,500
- Full registration: £4,500
Writing Up Fees 2024/25
- £1,200
Entry Requirements
- MPhil or PhD with progression from MPhil: You’ll need a Bachelors degree or equivalent with first or upper second class honours, in a related subject area.
- PhD: You’ll need a Masters degree or equivalent in a related subject area.
Please note we consider candidates for PhD with progression from MPhil in the first instance. If you want to be considered for direct entry to the PhD route then this can be discussed at interview if you are shortlisted. Please note you’ll also need to provide academic justification for this request.
If English is not your first language, you'll require a minimum IELTS score of 6.5, with a minimum of 5.5 in each component (or equivalent test). If you don't meet our English language requirements, we offer a range of courses which could help you achieve the level required for entry.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
ARU's Computing and Information Science research groups are actively involved in shaping the world through innovative technologies and applications, often in collaboration with industry partners. PhD candidates are encouraged to actively participate in the School's research community, which currently focuses on areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science and Applications, Imaging Technologies, Vision and Acoustics, IoT, Digital Systems and Cloud Computing, Semantic Web, Educational Technologies, and Cyber Security.
Objectives:
- Provide a supportive and stimulating environment for PhD candidates to conduct cutting-edge research in Computing and Information Science.
- Foster collaboration between researchers, industry partners, and the wider community.
- Develop innovative technologies and applications that address real-world challenges.
- Train future leaders in the field of Computing and Information Science.
Program Description:
The program offers a large multidisciplinary academic team with expertise in Computing, Informatics and Applications (CIA) and Cyber Security and Networking (CSN). The CIA research group focuses on applied and collaborative research, with a particular interest in how computational and artificial intelligence (AI) methods can improve people's lives and increase productivity. The CSN research group has close working relationships with industry, professional bodies, law enforcement, government agencies, and academia in the delivery of operationally focused applied information and application security research.
Outline:
Content:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine Learning
- Data Science and Applications
- Imaging Technologies
- Vision and Acoustics
- IoT
- Digital Systems and Cloud Computing
- Semantic Web
- Educational Technologies
- Cyber Security
Structure:
- Full-time or part-time study options
- Research-intensive program with a strong emphasis on original research
- Formal research training as part of the research program
- Opportunities to present research at internal, national, and international scientific conferences
- Access to wide-ranging expertise and first-rate computing facilities
Course Schedule:
- The program is typically completed in 2-4 years for full-time students and 3-6 years for part-time students.
- Formal two-weekly reviews with supervisors, with informal help available anytime.
Individual Modules:
- The program does not have a traditional module structure. Instead, students focus on their individual research projects under the guidance of their supervisors.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Thesis
- Oral examination
- Research proposal
- Progress reports
- Presentations
Assessment Criteria:
- Originality and significance of research
- Quality of research methodology
- Analysis and interpretation of data
- Communication and presentation skills
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Supervision by a primary supervisor and relevant specialists
- Formal two-weekly reviews
- Informal help available anytime
- Research training workshops and seminars
- Conferences and research events
Faculty:
- Prof Marcian Cirstea (Digital Systems, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Aided Design)
- Dr Silvia Cirstea (Mathematical Modelling, Acoustic and Psycho-acoustic Modelling, Smart Technologies for Assisted Living)
- Dr Razvan Dinita (Cloud Computing Software Development, Optimization, Security)
- Dr Arooj Fatima (Semantic Search, Knowledge Acquisition, User Interfaces, Usability Evaluation)
- Dr Cristina Luca (Artificial Intelligence, Semantic Technologies, Machine Learning, Neural Networks)
- Dr Ian van der Linde (Vision Science, Image Processing, Behavioural Psychology, Eye-Tracking, Electrophysiology)
- Dr George Wilson (Spatial Data Manipulation, Image Analysis, 3D-Gaming)
- Adrian Winkles (Malware Detection, Digital Forensics, Computer Networking, Network and System Security)
- Dr Jin Zhang (Electronic Systems Modelling, Smart Antennas, Artificial Metamaterials, Millimetre-Wave Astronomy)
Unique Approaches:
- Emphasis on applied and collaborative research
- Close working relationships with industry partners
- Opportunities for students to present their research at internal, national, and international scientific conferences
- Access to wide-ranging expertise and first-rate computing facilities
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Academia
- Research and development
- Industry
- Government
- Non-profit organizations
Opportunities:
- Opportunities to develop research skills and expertise in a supportive and stimulating environment
- Access to a network of industry partners and potential employers
- Training in transferable skills such as communication, presentation, and project management
Outcomes:
- Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in research, academia, industry, and beyond.
- They have the skills and knowledge to make significant contributions to the field of Computing and Information Science.
Tuition Fees and Payment Information:
UK students, 2023/24 (per year) £4,712 UK students, 2023/24 (part-time, per year) £2,356 International students, 2023/24 (per year) £15,000 International students, 2023/24 (part-time, per year) £7,500 UK students, 2024/25 (per year) £4,786 UK students, 2024/25 (part-time, per year) £2,392 International students, 2024/25 (per year) £15,900 International students, 2024/25 (part-time, per year) £7,950
Overview:
Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) is a global university with students from 185 countries. It is known for its innovative and entrepreneurial approach to education and research. ARU has been recognized as the Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023 and has received a Gold award for the quality of its education in the Teaching Excellence Framework.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
The context mentions that ARU is committed to creating a vibrant and welcoming environment for students, staff, and communities. It also highlights the university's focus on providing outstanding facilities and opportunities for student growth.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Ambition:
ARU is academically ambitious for its students and strives to provide high-quality education.Excellence:
ARU is ranked in the top 15% of universities in the UK for graduate employment and has been recognized for its excellence in education, social work, and sports science.Collaboration:
ARU fosters collaboration between students, businesses, and partners, and its courses are recognized by industry and professionally accredited.Impact:
ARU conducts impactful research that addresses pressing issues and makes a difference in the community.Enterprise:
ARU encourages entrepreneurship and provides mentorship, support, and start-up funding through the Anglia Ruskin Enterprise Academy.Enthusiasm:
ARU's can-do attitude and infectious enthusiasm set it apart from other universities.Academic Programs:
The context mentions that ARU offers a wide range of courses, including undergraduate, postgraduate, postgraduate research, college courses, apprenticeships, short courses, and distance learning programs. It also highlights the university's commitment to providing career-ready graduates.
Other:
The context mentions that ARU has campuses in Cambridge, Chelmsford, Peterborough, and Writtle. It also highlights the university's commitment to sustainability, equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Entry Requirements:
MPhil or PhD with progression from MPhil:
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent with first or upper second class honors in a related subject area.
PhD:
- Master's degree or equivalent in a related subject area.
Note:
- Candidates are considered for PhD with progression from MPhil in the first instance.
- Direct entry to the PhD route can be discussed at the interview if shortlisted, with academic justification provided.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- IELTS score of 6.5, with a minimum of 5.5 in each component (or equivalent test) for non-native English speakers.