Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Applied Science (Material Science)
- Level
- PhD(MNQF Level 10)
- Duration
- 3 years(6 Semesters)
- Modes
- Available Modes (Full-Time, Part-Time)
- Course Fee
- Course FeeMVR 120,600
- Selection Criteria
- Selection Merit based
SUMMARY
- current Intake
- August Intake 2025
- Campus
- Male' (Full-Time, Part-Time)
current Intake
Overview
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Applied Science is a rigorous, research-intensive program designed to prepare future leaders in science, technology, and innovation who can address pressing challenges faced by the Maldives and the broader region. The program cultivates advanced expertise, critical thinking, and original research capability across a range of applied science disciplines, equipping graduates to contribute meaningfully to national development, economic diversification, and sustainability. The Maldives, as a small island developing state, faces unique challenges including climate change, limited natural resources, rapid urbanization, and the need for digital transformation. This PhD program is strategically designed to generate solutions that are locally grounded and globally relevant. It directly supports the Maldives National University’s mission to build national research capacity and strengthen the country’s position as a regional hub for science, innovation, and sustainability. Key national development priorities supported by this program include: • Climate change adaptation and environmental sustainability • Renewable energy, water management, and circular economy systems • Marine science, biodiversity, and coastal resilience • Health science and biotechnology for population wellbeing • Data science and digital transformation for public service delivery • Smart infrastructure and resilient urban development • STEM education and innovation-led economic diversification Students will engage in independent, high-impact research under the supervision of experienced academics. They will have access to advanced research infrastructure, computational tools, and collaboration opportunities with local and international partners. Their research will contribute to building evidence-based solutions for critical national issues, while aligning with international scientific standards.
Entry Requirements
General Entry
- A Master's degree in a related field with 2 semesters worth of research project or equivalent.
Language Requirements
- If the master's degree Qualification is not in English Medium, should attain at least 6.0 score in IELTS or Equivalent.
General Notes
- Entry requirements are indicative. Depending on the sequence and the number of applications received, all qualifying students may not gain entry.
- Circumstances may require the University to defer or cancel some courses, especially when the minimum class size (10 for certificate & diploma courses, 15 for Degrees courses) is not achieved.
- Passes at GCE OL/SSC and HSC is considered to be grades "C" or above and passes at GCE AL is considered to be the grades "E" or above.
Semester 1
| Type | Code | Name | Prerequisites | Credit Points | Fee (MVR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CORE | SCI801 Doctoral Thesis (CORE) | Doctoral Thesis | 60 Doctoral Thesis (CORE) (60) (60) | 20,100 20,100 |
Semester 2
| Type | Code | Name | Prerequisites | Credit Points | Fee (MVR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CORE | SCI801 Doctoral Thesis (CORE) | Doctoral Thesis | 60 Doctoral Thesis (CORE) (60) (60) | 20,100 20,100 |
Semester 3
| Type | Code | Name | Prerequisites | Credit Points | Fee (MVR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CORE | SCI801 Doctoral Thesis (CORE) | Doctoral Thesis | 60 Doctoral Thesis (CORE) (60) (60) | 20,100 20,100 |
Semester 4
| Type | Code | Name | Prerequisites | Credit Points | Fee (MVR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CORE | SCI801 Doctoral Thesis (CORE) | Doctoral Thesis | 60 Doctoral Thesis (CORE) (60) (60) | 20,100 20,100 |
Semester 5
| Type | Code | Name | Prerequisites | Credit Points | Fee (MVR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CORE | SCI801 Doctoral Thesis (CORE) | Doctoral Thesis | 60 Doctoral Thesis (CORE) (60) (60) | 20,100 20,100 |
Semester 6
| Type | Code | Name | Prerequisites | Credit Points | Fee (MVR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CORE | SCI801 Doctoral Thesis (CORE) | Doctoral Thesis | 60 Doctoral Thesis (CORE) (60) (60) | 20,100 20,100 |
| Course Total | CP | Total: 120,600 120,600 |
Fees stated above are tuition fees for local students. Fees for international students is twice the stated fees. All fees are quoted in MVR.
While every reasonable effort has been exerted to ensure the accuracy of the fees published by the Maldives National University, it is important to note that the University reserves the prerogative to modify fees without prior notification, whether prompted by altered circumstances or otherwise. Applicants are hereby alerted to the fact that the outlined plans for various courses (including but not limited to lecturers and terms) as disclosed in the University's publications are indicative of intent. Such representations shall not be construed as constituting a binding offer or covenant for which the University assumes liability. Should you desire to pursue a specific subject as an elective, it is incumbent upon you to verify its availability in the respective term. In the event of any verbal communication from a University representative conflicting with a document officially published by the University, the latter shall be deemed authoritative.
Careers
Graduates of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Applied Science program will be equipped to take on advanced roles in academia, industry, government, and research institutions. With a strong emphasis on addressing national challenges through science and innovation, the program is designed to meet the growing demand for highly skilled professionals in the Maldives and beyond. The Maldives is actively building national capacity in science, technology, and sustainability-related fields. PhD graduates will play a vital role in this transformation by contributing to evidence-based decision-making, sustainable development, and technological advancement. Career Pathways in the Maldives • Academic and Higher Education • Government Ministries and Policy Advisory Roles • National Utilities, State-Owned Enterprises, and Public Sector Agencies • Environmental and Climate Organizations • Health and Biotechnology Sector • Entrepreneurship and Innovation • International and Regional Roles Graduates of the program will not only fill critical gaps in the local workforce but also strengthen the Maldives’ position in regional and global scientific collaboration networks. As national development increasingly relies on research-driven solutions, PhD holders will be central to building a resilient, knowledge-based economy.