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Doctor of Computing

Advance your expertise in computing with a research-driven professional doctorate. The Doctor of Computing is designed for experienced computing professionals aiming to tackle real-world challenges through applied research. With a focus on innovation, AI, and emerging technologies, this programme significantly empowers you to impact your specialist field.

Level
10
Credits
360 (3.0 EFTS)
Campus
Mt Albert
Start dates
February or July
Duration
Full-time for three years or part-time for four to six years

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Programme overview

The Doctor of Computing is a research-intensive programme that bridges theory and practice to address critical challenges in computing and information technology. Through advanced coursework and an original doctoral thesis, you will specialise in one or more specific areas of computing, such as artificial intelligence (AI), data science, software engineering, cybersecurity, networking, Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, cloud computing, human-computer interaction, digital forensics, technology-enhanced learning, AI ethics, data sovereignty, and responsible computing. Our diverse faculty expertise ensures strong supervisory support across these and other emerging fields in computing. The programme is designed to foster leadership in the tech industry, supporting research that has high professional and community impact. Graduates will be equipped to drive innovation, influence policy, and contribute to the evolving digital landscape.

Highlights

  • Cutting-Edge Research – Investigate contemporary topics in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, data analytics, and more.
  • Industry & Academic Collaboration – Work closely with supervisors, industry leaders, and academic experts.
  • Flexible Learning – Study full-time or part-time with a blend of online, seminar-based, and independent research.
  • Applied Focus – Conduct research with real-world applications, ensuring practical relevance in professional settings.
  • Leadership Development – Gain strategic insights and research expertise to lead digital transformation initiatives.
  • Cultural & Ethical Integration – Address computing challenges while incorporating principles of sustainability, innovation, and biculturalism.

Doctoral Study Framework 

The programme begins with three advanced courses that develop your research skills before transitioning into the thesis phase:

  • Critical Issues in Professional Practice – Conduct a pilot study and explore key challenges in computing.
  • Research Development – Design a rigorous research proposal and define the roadmap for your thesis.
  • Advanced Scholarly Inquiry – Critically assess existing research to establish the foundation for your study.
  • Doctoral Thesis – Undertake original, high-impact research in a specialist area of computing, guided by experienced supervisors and industry leaders.

The programme is delivered through seminars, independent research, and expert-led discussions, ensuring a dynamic and supportive learning environment.

Admission requirements

Domestic students

General Admission

Applicants must have at least three years of appropriate professional experience relevant to the discipline in which the doctorate is to be undertaken, and have:

  • Qualified for, or been awarded, a master’s degree in the same or similar discipline with not less than upper second-class honours or equivalent; or
  • Been awarded an honours degree of four years duration in the same or similar discipline with at least an A- average, and which includes a research project; or
  • Been awarded a postgraduate diploma in the same or similar discipline and be able to demonstrate, through substantial industry reports or other research publications, analytical and critical thinking skills and data interpretation; Or
  • Other qualifications may be recognised as equivalent at the discretion of the relevant Programme Committee.

And meet one of the English Entry requirements:

  • Have achieved a minimum standard of English as demonstrated by at least 8 credits at NCEA Level 2 in English (4 in Reading, 4 in Writing); Or
  • Evidence of English language proficiency as outlined in the NZQA Rules on the Unitec English Language Requirements for International Students Web-page.Non-Academic requirements
  • When you apply for this programme, you’ll need to provide proof of your identity (ID) and other documents such as academic certificates – please have these handy when you’re ready to apply. Click to view what documents you may need to provide

Non-Academic requirements

  • When you apply for this programme, you’ll need to provide proof of your identity (ID) and other documents such as academic certificates – please have these handy when you’re ready to apply. Click to view what documents you may need to provide

For more information, download the programme regulations (PDF，280KB)

International students

General Admission

Applicants must have at least three years of appropriate professional experience relevant to the discipline in which the doctorate is to be undertaken, and have:

  • Qualified for, or been awarded, a master’s degree in the same or similar discipline with not less than upper second-class honours, or equivalent; or
  • Been awarded an honours degree of four years duration in the same or similar discipline with at least an A- average, and which includes a research project; or
  • Been awarded a postgraduate diploma in the same or similar discipline and be able to demonstrate, through substantial industry reports or other research publications, analytical and critical thinking skills and data interpretation; Or
  • Other qualifications may be recognised as equivalent at the discretion of the relevant Programme Committee.

And English Entry Requirement;

​If English is not your first language, you will also need at least one of the following qualifications:

Non-Academic requirements

  • When you apply for this programme, you’ll need to provide proof of your identity (ID) and other documents such as academic certificates – please have these handy when you’re ready to apply. Click to view what documents you may need to provide

For more information, download the programme regulations (PDF，280KB)

Courses and timetables

For more details on the courses including timetables, please click on the course names below.

Compulsory courses
Level 10
Courses Credits Aim
Critical Issues in Professional Practice (ISCG1001) 60.0 credits (0.5 EFTS) To allow participants to explore theoretical and practical issues in their profession.
Research Development (ISCG1002) 30.0 credits (0.25 EFTS) To enable participants to develop a critical understanding of research in their field of computing and advance their professional research capabilities.
Advanced Scholarly Inquiry (ISCG1003) 30.0 credits (0.25 EFTS) To allow participants to critically engage with the literature/information relevant to their research topics.

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Page last edited: 13 Feb 2025