The PhD is a globally recognised postgraduate research degree and the highest level of degree you can achieve. PhD students are critical, curious, creative thinkers who undertake original research over at least 3 years.
This course is also offered at overseas locations.
Software Engineering:
Software Engineering combines computer science, engineering and mathematics to design, develop and test the integral foundations of today’s technology.
Subject overview
Software Engineering is behind many of the technologies we now take for granted. It is seen in virtually all sectors of today’s economy, from handheld smart devices to cloud services and large telecommunications networks. Offered by our Department of Electrical, Computer, and Software Engineering, the specialisation covers software architecture, system performance, testing and quality assurance, requirements engineering, human-computer interaction, and documentation. Because it is largely project-oriented, software engineers also familiarise themselves with the ethical, social, legal, economical and safety issues relevant to users today.
As a result, software engineers often see their core skills as complementary to their personal interests, and demand for professionals in this field will continue to increase alongside the need to create and improve products for today’s technologically-savvy environments and users.
Programme structure
The University of Auckland PhD is a three-to-four year full-time advanced research degree.
On possible to the PhD programme, you will be enrolled provisionally. By the end of your first year, you must meet a number of goals to be confirmed into the PhD programme, including developing a full thesis proposal. After confirmation, you will continue to work on your research before submitting your thesis for examination after three years and within four years of your start date. The examination process includes an oral exam.
As part of your PhD study, you can take part in our doctoral skills programme, designed to help you achieve success in your research and develop skills for your future. We have a dedicated postgraduate careers advisor, and our library service includes specialist subject librarians to help you in your research. The central School of Graduate Studies provides dedicated support and advice for the doctoral community.
Where could this programme take you?
Our PhD graduates are successful in a wide range of fields and careers, as well as the traditional academic research career path. The PhD gives you extensive specialist and transferable skills, which are sought after in many sectors, including industry and government, and can even help you to develop entrepreneurship skills to run your own startup.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
3 March 2025
University of Auckland
City Campus,
Alfred Nathan House, 24 Princes Street,
AUCKLAND CITY,
Auckland Central,
1010, New Zealand
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
3 March 2025
Grafton Campus
85 Park Road,
AUCKLAND,
Grafton,
1023, New Zealand
Masters-level qualification or the equivalent of a bachelors degree with honours
Evidence of significant research, usually undertaken as part of prior study
English language requirements
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s largest and most highly ranked university, with a global reputation for academic excellence.