The Doctor of Philosophy in Art, Design and Creative Media at UCSI University is a research doctorate for advanced study in creative practice, art, design and digital media.
Malaysia
UCSI University
PhD
Design
In-person
3 Years
US$6,564
N/A
QS World University Rankings: 2023 284, 2024 300, 2025 265, 2026 269, 2027 282
The Doctor of Philosophy in Art, Design and Creative Media at UCSI University is a research doctorate for advanced study in creative practice, art, design and digital media. It offers a dual pathway: candidates may complete a full research thesis or develop creative work supported by a research report, making the programme especially relevant to practitioners who want doctoral study to connect closely with their own practice.
Based in Kuala Lumpur, the PhD combines critical inquiry with practice-led exploration of how creative work intersects with digital and technological innovation. The programme encourages doctoral candidates to develop original research around contemporary creative fields, with scope to engage animation, visual effects and related digital media. It is delivered full-time or part-time over 3 years, with the option of a longer completion period where permitted.
Research Methodology in Arts & Design
Graduate Seminar
Choose one Core:
Thesis
Creative Practice and Exegesis
The Doctor of Philosophy in Art, Design and Creative Media at UCSI University is a research doctorate for advanced study in creative practice, art, design and digital media.
Doctor of Philosophy in Art, Design and Creative Media takes 3 years and is delivered in person.
Doctor of Philosophy in Art, Design and Creative Media centres on independent research with academic supervision and formal progress milestones.
Academic entry requirements vary by qualification and may include Master's-equivalent qualifications, Other relevant equivalent qualifications or other accepted pathways. English evidence may include IELTS 6.0.
The estimated international tuition fee is US$6,564 per year.
| Curriculum | Required Score |
|---|---|
| Master's-equivalent qualifications | Alternative pathwayOther qualifications equivalent to a Master’s degree (Level 7, MQF) that are accepted by the HEP’s Senate |
| Other relevant equivalent qualifications | Alternative pathwayOther relevant equivalent qualifications recognized by the Malaysian Government |
| High-CGPA direct pathway | QualificationStudents have obtained CGPA of at least 3.67 or equivalent from either an academic or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme |
| Curriculum | Required Score |
|---|---|
| Interview or portfolio review | Additional assessmentPass an interview or submission of portfolio determined by De Institute of Creative Arts and Design, UCSI University as required. Candidates can enter through direct entry to the Doctoral Degree with the following conditions: Students have first class Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification |
| HEP internal assessment | Additional assessmentEvaluated through rigorous internal assessment by the HEP |
| HEP Senate approval | Approval conditionApproved by the HEP Senate and accepted as a candidate for the Doctoral Degree (Level 8, MQF) programme. Students must demonstrate appropriate progress during the candidature period |
| Test | Score |
|---|---|
| MUET | Band 4.0 |
| IELTS Academic | Band 6.0 |
| Pearson Test of English | 51 |
| TOEFL IBT | 46 |
| TOEFL Essentials | 8 |
| Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) | 160 |
| Details | Fee |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | US$6,564 |
| Year 2 | US$6,564 |
| Year 3 | US$6,564 |
| Estimated total | US$19,691 |
Fee amounts are estimates based on university-published international student fee information available at the time of publication. Actual fees may change by intake and may vary because of exchange rates, taxes, or university updates.