Program Overview

Introduction to the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) / Master of Philosophy (MPhil) Program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) / Master of Philosophy (MPhil) program is offered by the Department of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (DSAI) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). The program aims to foster a culture of multidisciplinary, data-driven research and innovation, with a focus on advancing the fields of data science and artificial intelligence.

Research Areas

The program covers six key research areas:

• Machine Learning and Optimization
• Big Data Analytics and Management
• Speech and Natural Language Processing
• Computer Vision and Graphics
• AI for Science
• AI for Healthcare

Machine Learning

Machine Learning is a cornerstone of innovation, addressing diverse challenges across multiple fields. The program's research focuses on leveraging the transformative power of Machine Learning to solve intricate problems and explore new opportunities. Key areas of research include:

• Supervised Learning
• Unsupervised Learning
• Representation Learning
• Reinforcement Learning
• Deep Learning

Biometrics and Human Language Processing

Biometrics and Human Language Processing are pivotal research fields with significant societal and scientific impact. The program aims to lead in these areas, harnessing their transformative potential across education, e-security, healthcare, and information retrieval. Research focus includes:

• Biometrics Recognition
• Speech Processing
• Text Mining
• Sentiment Analysis
• Machine Translation
• Language Generation

Computer Vision and Graphics

The field of Computer Vision and Graphics has experienced significant advancements, transforming industries and applications by enabling machines to perceive and interpret visual information. The program's research aims to leverage machine learning, high-performance computing, and advanced sensing technologies to design novel solutions for image recognition, object detection, scene understanding, virtual reality, and augmented reality. Research focuses on:

• Image and Video Analysis
• 3D Vision and Reconstruction
• Graphics and Rendering
• Computational Photography and Image Processing
• Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and User Interfaces

Data Technologies and Governance

Data technologies and governance have become crucial research areas, focusing on efficient data management and analysis for public benefit. The program's research aims to lead in data technologies and governance, leveraging advances in data mining and predictive analytics. Collaboration with experts in computer science, statistics, mathematics, and industry will develop novel methodologies, algorithms, and tools for efficient data storage, retrieval, analysis, and visualization. Research focus includes:

• Data Acquisition and Storage
• Data Integration and Preprocessing
• Big Data Technologies
• Data Privacy and Governance
• Bias, Fairness, and Ethical AI

Statistical Learning and Optimization Methods

Statistical learning and optimization strategies are crucial for addressing complex challenges across various domains. The program's research focuses on leveraging these disciplines to address open research problems and explore new possibilities from cutting-edge advancements in data science. Research areas include:

• Probability Theory and Mathematical Statistics
• Statistical Analysis and Uncertainty Quantification
• Evolutionary Computation
• Generative and Large Models
• Time Series Analysis and Online Learning
• Optimization Methods

AI + X (Science, Healthcare, Neuroscience, etc.)

The AI + X initiative seeks to harness AI's potential to advance scientific inquiry in areas such as healthcare, neuroscience, and beyond. The fusion of AI technologies with vast datasets from experiments, simulations, and observations offers unprecedented opportunities to shape the future of society. Research areas include:

• Domain-Specific Applications
• Interdisciplinary Research
• Neuromorphic Computing
• Personalized Medicine
• Financial Analytics
• Marketing and Social Analysis

Admission Requirements

• Two Academic Referee's Reports are required.
• A Curriculum Vitae is compulsory.
• A Research Proposal is compulsory, using a standard form.
• Transcript / Certificate is compulsory, including all academic qualifications.
• A Personal Statement is compulsory.

Study Information

• Academic Year: The program is available for the January 2026 entry.
• Study Mode: Full-time and part-time study modes are available.
• Application Deadline: The application deadline for PhD and MPhil is September 30, 2025.

Procedure

• Application Procedures: Follow the guidelines for submitting supporting documents.
• Application Period: The application period is open until the deadline.
• Application Result and Offer: Guidelines for accepting offers will be provided.

Policies

• Applicants with Disabilities: Support is available for applicants with disabilities.
• Concurrent Enrolment: Policies regarding concurrent enrolment apply.
• Credit Transfer and Subject Exemption: Policies regarding credit transfer and subject exemption apply.
• Non-local Applicants: Guidelines for non-local applicants are available.

Fees and Support

• Application Fee: An application fee is required.
• Caution Money: Caution money is required.
• Fellowship and Scholarship: Fellowships and scholarships are available.
• Financial Assistance: Financial assistance is available.
• General Expenses: Information on general expenses is available.
• Tuition Fee and Registration Fee: Tuition fees and registration fees apply.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions are available for reference.