DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN SUSTAINABILITY SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY - PART TIME at Sunway University

Program Structure: A Step-by-Step Path to Sustainability Expertise

The PhD (Part-Time) programme is structured to progressively build research capacity, technical knowledge, and expertise in sustainability science and technology.

• Phase 1: Coursework and Research Proposal
  • Introduction to Sustainability Science: Gain foundational knowledge of sustainability issues, concepts, and approaches.
  • Research Methodologies: Learn advanced qualitative and quantitative research techniques for sustainability studies.
  • Literature Review: Conduct a comprehensive review to identify gaps and refine the research focus.
  • Research Proposal Development: Formulate a research proposal under faculty supervision.
• Phase 2: Independent Research
  • Data Collection and Analysis: Conduct research, gather primary and secondary data, and analyse findings.
  • Fieldwork and Case Studies: Engage in practical investigations and applied research for real-world sustainability challenges.
  • Thesis Development: Write the doctoral thesis documenting research methods, results, and conclusions.
• Phase 3: Thesis Submission and Defense
  • Submit the doctoral thesis for academic evaluation.
  • Defend the thesis before a panel of experts, demonstrating contributions to sustainability science and technology.

Entry Requirements

• Master’s Degree: A relevant Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Sustainability Studies, or related fields with a minimum CGPA of 3.00 or equivalent.
• Research Proposal: Submission of a research proposal outlining the intended area of study.
• English Language Requirements: IELTS 6.0, TOEFL IBT 79, Pearson (PTE) 58, or MUET Band 4. Additional English courses may be required if these are not met.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the PhD (Part-Time) in Sustainability Science and Technology are prepared for high-level research, leadership, and consultancy roles in sustainability, industry, and academia.

• Academic Researcher or Professor in Sustainability Science
• Sustainability Consultant
• Environmental Policy Analyst
• Corporate Sustainability Manager
• Climate Change Scientist
• Environmental Impact Assessor
• Research Scientist in Renewable Energy
• NGO Specialist in Sustainable Development

Program Highlights

• Duration: 4–6 years (part-time), flexible to accommodate professional commitments.
• Mode of Delivery: Part-time with blended learning, including independent research, seminars, and supervision.
• Research-Oriented: Access to Sunway University’s research groups, state-of-the-art facilities, and industry partnerships.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Integrates environmental science, technology, policy, and economics to tackle sustainability challenges.
• Global Recognition: Sunway University is internationally recognized for excellence in sustainability research.
• International Collaborations: Opportunities for joint research and exposure through partnerships with global universities and institutions.