Doctor of Philosophy in Geographic Information Science

Geography and Urban Sustainability·College of Humanities and Social Sciences

PhD

Doctor of Philosophy in Geographic Information Science

Overview

The PhD in Geographic Information Science (GIS) is designed to meet the market demand of various sectors, such as academia, municipalities, urban planning departments, environmental agencies, police, and military. Students are expected to formulate their research on a variety of topics, including GIS, remote sensing, climate change, population studies, natural hazards, and coastal zone management. The Program aspires to contribute to both the academy and to the UAE by training nationals to meet the nation’s vision. The PhD consists of two major components: taught courses ( 24 credit hours) and a research dissertation ( 30 credit hours).

Typical Job Titles

Academia
Municipalities
Urban planning departments
Environmental agencies
Police
Military

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Tuition & Fees

AED 32,400Per year

AED 16,200 Per semester

AED 2,400 per credit hour (2025/26) x 54 credit hours (minimum) = AED 129,600 total. Annual figure = total / 4 years.

Program Details

Degree level: PhD
Duration: 4 years; Typical 4 years (program duration is not published by the university; estimated from required credit hours).
Department: Geography and Urban Sustainability
College: College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Learning Outcomes

Acquire central concepts, skills, values, and facts in their specific disciplines to create meaningful learning experiences
Utilize a variety of instructional strategies to develop students' critical thinking, problem solving and performance skills
Exhibit knowledge of effective verbal, nonverbal, and media communication techniques to foster active inquiry, collaboration, and supportive interaction in the classroom
Adopt learning experiences that are appropriate for curriculum goals, relevant to learners' diversity, and based upon principles of effective instruction
Establish understanding of individual and group dynamics to create a collaborative learning environment that encourages positive social interaction
Perform educational practices according to the profession's ethics consistent with the culture and norms of society
Foster relationships with school colleagues, parents, and agencies in the larger community to support students' learning and engage in purposeful professional development activities
Conduct research projects to improve educational practices

Program Requirements7

1Minimum 54 credit hours total
26 credits: General College Requirements (CHSS700, CHSS702, CHSS703)
318 credits: Geography Requirements (GEOG703, GEOG707, GEOG708, GEOG709, GEOG710, GEOG712, GEOG718)
4Comprehensive Examination (GEOG800) - 0 credits
5Research Proposal (GEOG810) - 0 credits
6Dissertation Research (GEOG900) - 30 credits
7Dissertation Defense (GEOG910) - 0 credits