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The PhD Computer Science programme at ALU supports original research in artificial intelligence, distributed systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. After doctoral coursework, you will join a research group aligned with your interests, contribute to publications, and defend a dissertation that advances the state of the art. Our faculty maintain active collaborations with European and African universities, offering co-supervision and exchange opportunities.
Research groups meet weekly with paper readings and prototype demos. GPU cloud credits support ML dissertations. Co-supervision with partner universities in Europe and Africa is available for comparative systems research.
Faculty spotlight
Professor James Okello leads the Security & Systems lab; Dr. Elena Vasquez directs the Responsible AI research cluster.
Study online
Tuition is free. Examinations are free. There is no exam fee. Study from anywhere in the world.
| Code | Course | Credits · hours |
|---|---|---|
| PCS701 | Advanced Algorithms & Complexity Asymptotic analysis, approximation algorithms, and computational hardness for research-level problem solving.
| 6 · 60 h |
| PCS702 | Research Methods in Computer Science Experimental design, evaluation, reproducibility and scholarly communication for CS research.
| 6 · 60 h |
| PCS703 | Specialist Doctoral Seminar (elective area) Deep literature seminar in AI, systems, security or HCI aligned with intended dissertation focus.
| 6 · 60 h |
| PCS704 | Doctoral Research Skills & Ethics Research integrity, open science, responsible AI and collaborative research practice.
| 6 · 60 h |
| Code | Course | Credits · hours |
|---|---|---|
| PCS801 | PhD Candidacy Examination Candidacy assessment confirming theoretical readiness and an approved dissertation research plan.
| 0 |
| PCS802 | Doctoral Dissertation Research Supervised original research producing publishable contributions and a successful dissertation defence.
|
Modules are assessed through a published mix of coursework, applied projects, and examinations. Exam windows are announced in advance so students in other time zones are not forced into overnight sittings. Alternative arrangements are available where documented.
The published duration is 3–5 years. Teaching language: English. Actual time-to-complete depends on mode and any recognised prior learning.
This is a fully online award. You study from your country. No student visa and no campus relocation are required.
Degree tuition for this award is published as £0 / tuition-free on the online pathway. Examination or administrative fees may apply at checkout — never an annual tuition invoice. Check the Fees page for any extras.
Requirements are grouped on this page (academic, English, documents, research). Equivalent qualifications are considered. English may be waived after prior English-medium study.
Assessment is typically a mix of coursework, projects, and examinations. Doctoral awards include a thesis or dissertation and an oral examination. Details sit in the programme specification and module outlines.
Recognition of the award for local employment, professional licence, or ministry attestation is decided by your employer or regulator. Arab Leadership University publishes verification pages for certificates. We do not claim automatic equivalence in every country.
Start an application on this website. Progress is saved from the first step. Admissions: admissions@aleaderuni.com.
Recognised & Accredited
| 36 · 360 h |