DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Part I – When to Join

Intakes are in January, May and September.

Part II – Requirements

The PhD in IS curriculum is designed with technology agility in mind due to the 4th industrial revolution. The curriculum is therefore designed to cultivate an agile mindset in students to enable them to be innovative and creative so as to be able to respond to change in the uncertain and turbulent technological environment that characterizes modern information systems. The courses are designed to foster critical thinking and problem-solving strategies so as to facilitate the acquisition of life-long learning skills that can enable them to identify uncertainties and figure out how to adapt as they go. The curriculum emphasises the application of teaching methods that will equip students with the appropriate research skills, inquisitiveness, and creativity to solve many of the social and technological problems that are faced every day. 

Justification of the need for the programme

As information systems permeate every facet of life, enterprises endeavour to reengineer their business processes to align themselves with the digitization reality in the wake of the 4th industrial revolution (4IR). This phenomenon results in an ever-increasing digital skill gap that calls for continuous retraining of the workforce. This gap can be addressed through formal training by institutions of higher learning or through on-job training using workshops and short courses. It is therefore paramount that institutions of higher learning endeavour to provide curriculums that address the emerging demand for digital skills across all sectors. The dynamic nature of technology calls for a creative and innovative workforce hence the need for a curriculum at the PhD level aimed at training trainers and upscaling information system research skills in the workforce. 

Overall Goal of the Programme 

The aim of the PhD in Information Systems for Digital Transformation curriculum is to produce graduates with the knowledge and skills to conduct information systems research and take on appropriate information system management positions. The curriculum encourages the student to acquire the important skills of self-directed learning, problem-solving and effective communication through technical writing. The graduate is expected to be proficient in a variety of settings, which shall include teaching, and undertaking research activities. Management of information systems and advanced data analytics for business intelligence.

Mode of Delivery of the Programme 

The mode of delivery of the program will be Blended learning including face-to-face and online learning modes  

Admission Requirements for the Programme 

Candidates wishing to study for a Doctor of Philosophy in Information Systems degree must satisfy any of the following minimum requirements:

• Be a holder of a Master’s Degree in a computing field from CUK or its equivalent from a recognized institution/university.

OR

• Completion of KNQF level 9.

The medium of instruction will be the English language.

Part III – Approximate Fees & Projected Study Schedule, Unit Distribution

Course Outline and More