Research programmes in the UCD College of Engineering and Architecture
The PhD and MSc by research in this college are grounded in world-class research, as witnessed by the research output of the groups in the college. There are about 200 PhD students currently registered, with a large number coming to UCD from outside Ireland or indeed outside the EU. They undertake a structured programme, many taking taught, discipline-specific modules, and also learning generic and transferrable skills. Typically the PhD takes between 3 & 4 years, and many are funded by outside research agencies. Almost all are examined by thesis submission followed by a viva-voce examination lead by an international expert in the research topic. The MSc takes between 1 and 2 years, and is sometimes funded by research agencies.
The facilities available in the college have been greatly enhanced by the high levels of research funding won over the last 5 years in particular. Most students will have the opportunity to travel during their PhD and should expect to publish their research in international peer-reviewed journals. UCD has recently been shown to have a research impact 1.6 times the international average. Each PhD student has a doctoral studies panel, which serves to guide the student and is a resource for the student during the course of their PhD. Many work in large research groups which are closely linked to industrial partners and provide opportunities for PhD students to see and/or participate in innovation-related research. MSc students also have guidence from a research masters panel, comprising 2 or 3 academics or others.
Research Programmes are available in the following disciplines:
Urban and Building Conservation
Biosystems Engineering