Our research profile is underpinned by the contribution of our postgraduate community. UM is publicly funded and is open to all those with the requisite qualifications.
Research-based doctoral studies at UM provide students with the opportunity to pursue substantial independent research on their own under the guidance of their supervisors, who are experts in their field of research. Successful doctoral theses must, among other things, display evidence of substantial and original research, lucid and scholarly presentation, and a sound knowledge of the general field within which the thesis falls.
As a prospective applicant you are encouraged to find out which research entity at UM has the right resources and has academic staff that could supervise the research. Making contact with the officer in charge of the research entity is recommended in order to see what information is required before submitting the application. A wide range of research options are available in the various Faculties, Institutes, Centres and Schools at UM.
Applications are accepted at any time of year. Enrolment for Ph.D./D.Mus./S.Th.D. students takes place with effect from the first day of the following months: October, December, February, April, June. Research Proposals [PDF] are discussed at the level of Faculty/Institute/Centre/School Doctoral Committees and Boards in the first instance, following an interview with the applicant. Recommendations are subsequently made to the Doctoral Academic Committee before final consideration by Senate.
If accepted, all Doctor of Philosophy candidates are enrolled as Master of Philosophy students with the possibility of transferring to full doctoral status following twelve months (full-time) or twenty-four months (part-time).
Your main expenses to study at the University of Malta will be enrolment or tuition fees and living expenses.
Enrolment or tuition fees cover the cost of education and research. Wherever possible, up-to-date fees are provided for each programme, including fees that students pay when they are granted an extension of studies.
Fees for EU and EEA students:
Enrolment, Tuition and Bench Fees payable by EU and EEA students reading for a doctoral programme as per Legal Notice 258 of 2009 amended by LN 370 of 2009; 397 of 2010, 302 and 430 of 2012 and 301 of 2013
Fees for Non-EU and Non-EEA students:
Students reading for a full-time or part-time Doctoral Degree at the UM and who are granted an extension of studies shall pay an annual fee for each academic year of EUR 600.
In addition, science-based doctoral studies may require bench fees. These cover the cost of consumable materials and facilities used during research projects and are established on a case by case basis. Additional information is available in the University of Malta Bench fees Guidelines.
Students can choose between reading for a full-time or part-time doctoral degree. The duration of a full-time degree is generally 6 semesters (3 years), while a part-time degree generally takes 12 semesters (6 years). Students reading for a full-time or part-time doctoral degree at the UM can be granted an extension of studies of up to 4 semesters (2 years).
Full-time students may not engage in employment which is likely to interfere with the progress of their research and must seek the permission of Senate, before engaging in any employment.
Students shall normally spend a total of at least three weeks per academic year on campus during which period they shall hold meetings with the Principal Supervisor and attend any Professional Development activities.
Reference is to be made to Regulations 22-24 of the Doctor of Philosophy Regulations 2023.
Applicants who wish to pursue doctoral research at the University of Malta will normally have completed a second cycle Master’s degree programme.
Find out all about the regulations governing doctoral research at UM. Regulations 8-16 of the Ph.D. General Regulations 2023 are important to note.
In order to have an idea of the cost of living in Malta international students will find the information available on the University’s International Office website
International applicants may check whether they satisfy the English language requirements in order to embark on their studies at the UM. It is important that they submit all required information to the International Admissions Office through the online application process and as instructed.
UK nationals are urged to check the dedicated page.
If you are interested in applying for an internship, you are encouraged to visit the International Office website.
The University of Malta offers two professional doctorates: