Program Overview

PhD specialising in Information Design

Programme Overview

The PhD specialising in Information Design is a research-based programme offered by the University of Pretoria. The programme is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in information design, with a focus on research and academic excellence.

Admission Requirements

• General Admission Regulations: Refer to the UP Institutional Admissions Policy as well as the General Academic Regulations and Student Rules.
• All applications must be accompanied by the following documents:
  • Certified full academic transcripts from undergraduate to current level.
  • Certified copy of ID or passport.
  • A research concept note (not applicable to honours or coursework master's degrees): A description of the proposed research field indicating a research topic and the broad scope of the proposed study, not exceeding 500 words.
• All applicants with international qualifications must submit the following documents:
  • A SAQA evaluation of the completed qualification or a comprehensive Foreign Qualification Report.
  • TOEFL or IELTS or Pearson Test of English or Oxford Test of English test results (if applicable).
  • Certified copy of passport.
• All postgraduate applications are subject to departmental admissions processes.
• Admissions is based on the content of and performance in the prior degree, bridging arrangements (where required), academic merit and prior work experience (if applicable).
• Admission to all qualifications is subject to supervisory capacity and/or research projects in the field of specialisation in a department, therefore the relevant department has the right to limit the number of students per year.
• Complying with the minimum admissions requirements, does not automatically guarantee admission to the degree.
• Proposed research studies for masters and doctoral applicants should align with the research focus of the relevant department.
• If a qualifying candidate has expressed an interest in a field of study that the relevant department cannot accommodate, the applicant may be considered for an alternative project.
• All postgraduate applicants must be proficient in English as English is the official language of tuition, communication and correspondence at the University of Pretoria. Candidates who cannot provide evidence that previous studies were completed in English, must submit TOEFL or IELTS or Pearson Test of English or Oxford Test of English test results with their application.
• All applicants must be computer literate.
• All students need to have access to an internet enabled device, as well as consistent email and internet access.
• Allowance will be made for the diversity profile of students in accordance with the University strategy.

Minimum Admissions Requirements

• Relevant master's degree (NQF level 9).
• An average of at least 65% for the research component of the master's degree.
• An admissions essay/examination may be required.
• Additional work/modules may be required in order to reach the desired level of competency.

Programme Details

• Minimum duration of study: 2 years, full-time.
• The Faculty of Humanities provides a holistic education, transferable skills, critical thinking, and communication and problem-solving that will help students develop to their full potential.
• The Faculty offers an exciting and comprehensive range of programmes and discipline-based majors, including studies in languages, social sciences and visual and performing arts.

Closing Dates

• SA: 30/11/2025.
• Non-SA: 30/09/2025.