Graduate Catalog2014-2015Nurturing tomorrow’s leaders..Growing the knowledge economy.
This Catalog is an official Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research document. Every effort has
been made to ensure the accuracy of the information presented in this catalog. However, no responsibility is
assumed for editorial, clerical or printing errors, or errors occasioned by mistakes. Furthermore, this Catalog
does not establish contractual relations. The University reserves the right to make changes without prior notice
to the information contained in this Catalog, including the alteration of various fees, schedules, conditions of
admission and requirements, and the revision or cancellation of courses or programs.
DISCLAIMER
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KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
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CONTENTS
DISCLAIMER I
CONTENTS II
1 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE 8
2 ACADEMIC CALENDAR 9
3 THE UNIVERSITY 11
3.1 HISTORY 12
3.2 BOARD OF TRUSTEES 12
3.3 VISION 12
3.4 MISSION 12
3.5 LICENSURE AND ACCREDITATION 13
3.6 FINANCIAL RESOURCES 13
4 APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION 15
4.1 REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS 16
4.1.1 Full Admission Requirements 16
4.1.2 Conditional Admission Requirements 16
4.1.3 Transfer Students 16
4.2 AVAILABILITY OF PLACES 16
4.2.1 Number of Places 16
4.2.2 Admission Policy 17
4.3 APPLICATION PROCEDURE 17
4.3.1 Submission of Application 17
4.3.2 Thesis Topic Selection 17
4.3.3 Assessment of Applications 17
4.3.4 Eligibility for Admission 17
4.3.5 Decision and Registration 18
4.3.6 Deferred Admissions 18
4.4 FEES AND SCHOLARSHIPS 18
4.4.1 Disclaimer 18
4.4.2 Normal Tuition Fees 18
4.4.3 Writing-Up Reduced Fees 18
4.4.4 Fees during Revisions 18
4.4.5 Payment and Penalties 18
4.4.6 Refunds 19
4.4.7 Scholarships 19
5 PROGRAMS STRUCTURE 21
5.1 ACADEMIC YEAR 22
5.2 CREDIT HOUR 22
5.3 PROGRAM COMPONENTS 22
5.3.1 MSc by Research 22
5.3.2 MSc by Courses and Thesis 22
5.3.3 PhD 22
5.4 MODES OF STUDY 23
5.5 DURATION OF STUDY 23
5.5.1 MSc 23
5.5.2 PhD 23
6 GRADING SYSTEM AND REGISTRATION 25
6.1 GRADING SYSTEM 26
6.1.1 Course Grades 26
6.1.2 Grade Point Average 26
6.2 REGISTRATION 26
6.2.1 Registration Process 26
6.2.2 Registration Deadlines 27
6.2.3 Number of Degrees 27
6.2.4 Withdrawal from Courses 27
6.2.5 Withdrawal from the University 27
6.2.6 Leave of Absence and Reinstatement 27
6.2.7 Academic Standing 27
6.2.8 Repetition of Courses 28
6.2.9 Continued Registration 28
6.2.10 Extensions 28
6.2.11 Dismissal or Suspension from the University 28
6.2.12 Readmission to the University 28
7 PROGRESSION AND COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS 31
7.1 MSC BY RESEARCH 32
7.1.1 Research Thesis Progress 32
7.1.2 Thesis Examination 32
7.2 MSC BY COURSES AND THESIS 33
7.2.1 Course Assessment 33
7.2.2 Thesis Assessment 33
7.2.3 Completion Requirements 35
7.3 PHD 36
7.3.1 Course Assessment 36
7.3.2 Research Proposal Examination 36
7.3.3 Assessment of Progress 37
7.3.4 Thesis Examination 37
8 ACADEMIC POLICIES AND REGULATIONS 41
8.1 ACADEMIC OFFENCES 42
8.1.1 Academic Integrity Code 42
8.1.2 Plagiarism 42
8.1.3 Other forms of Academic Dishonesty 43
8.1.4 Procedure and Penalties for Academic Offences 43
8.2 STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES 45
8.3 ACADEMIC SUPPORT SERVICES 46
8.3.1 Academic Advising 46
8.3.2 Faculty Office Hours 47
8.4 TAUGHT COURSES POLICIES AND REGULATIONS 47
8.4.1 Examination Policies and Regulations 47
8.4.2 Classroom and Laboratory Management Policies 48
8.5 THESIS POLICIES AND REGULATIONS 49
8.5.1 Supervisor Responsibilities 49
8.5.2 Student Responsibilities 49
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
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9 STUDENT LIFE AND SERVICES 53
9.1 OFFICE OF STUDENT SERVICES 54
9.1.1 Student Life and Student Services 54
9.1.2 Career Services 54
9.1.3 Counseling Services 54
9.1.4 Disability Services 54
9.1.5 Housing Accommodations 55
9.2 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION 55
9.3 EMERGENCY SERVICES 55
9.4 VISA SERVICES 55
9.5 ORIENTATION PROGRAM FOR NEW STUDENTS 55
9.6 STUDENT SPONSORED ORGANIZATIONS 55
9.7 KHALIFA UNIVERSITY STUDENT COUNCIL 55
9.8 UNIVERSITY FACILITIES 56
9.8.1 Mosque and Prayer Rooms 56
9.8.2 Restaurants and Coffee Lounges 56
9.8.3 Sport, Fitness, and Entertainment Facilities 56
10 MSC IN ELECTRICAL AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING PROGRAM 59
10.1 ABOUT THE PROGRAM 60
10.2 PROGRAM GOALS 60
10.3 PROGRAM OUTCOME 60
10.4 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 60
10.5 PROGRAM STRUCTURE 60
11 MSC IN INFORMATION SECURITY PROGRAM 63
11.1 ABOUT THE PROGRAM 64
11.2 PROGRAM GOALS 64
11.3 PROGRAM OUTCOMES 64
11.4 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 64
11.5 PROGRAM STRUCTURE 65
11.5.1 Program Components 65
11.5.2 Number of Courses and Curricular Offerings 65
11.6 STUDY PLAN 65
12 MSC IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING PROGRAM 67
12.1 ABOUT THE PROGRAM 68
12.2 PROGRAM GOALS 68
12.3 PROGRAM OUTCOMES 68
12.4 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 68
12.5 PROGRAM STRUCTURE 68
13 MSC IN NUCLEAR ENGINEERING PROGRAM 73
13.1 ABOUT THE PROGRAM 74
13.2 PROGRAM GOALS 74
13.3 PROGRAM OUTCOMES 74
13.4 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 74
13.5 PROGRAM STRUCTURE 75
13.6 STUDY PLAN 76
14 MSC BY RESEARCH BY ENGINEERING PROGRAM 79
14.1 ABOUT THE PROGRAM 80
14.2 PROGRAM AIM 80
14.3 PROGRAM GOALS 80
14.4 PROGRAM OUTCOMES 80
14.5 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 80
14.6 PROGRAM STRUCTURE 80
14.7 STUDY PLAN 81
15 MA IN INTERNATIONAL AND CIVIL SECURITY PROGRAM 83
15.1 ABOUT THE PROGRAM 84
15.2 PROGRAM GOALS 84
15.3 PROGRAM OUTCOMES 84
15.4 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 84
15.5 PROGRAM STRUCTURE 84
15.5.1 Program Components 84
15.5.2 Number of Courses and Curricular Offerings 85
16 PHD IN ENGINEERING PROGRAM 87
16.1 ABOUT THE PROGRAM 88
16.2 PROGRAM AIM 88
16.3 PROGRAM GOALS 88
16.4 PROGRAM OUTCOMES 88
16.5 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 88
16.6 PROGRAM STRUCTURE 89
16.6.1 Program Components 89
16.6.2 Number of Courses and Curricular Offerings 89
16.7 STUDY PLAN 90
17 GRADUATE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS 93
17.1 GRADUATE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS 94
18 FULL-TIME FACULTY AND ACADEMIC STAFF 111
CONTENTS
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
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It is my pleasure to welcome you to Khalifa University of
Science, Technology and Research , for what will be one of
the most memorable, challenging, and enjoyable periods
of your life. As an institution, a nation, and a world, we are
in the midst of times where high quality technical training
will be at a premium to address many pressing societal
concerns, relating to energy, environment, health care,
security, communications, transportation, civil infrastructure,
and many others. The co-educational and multicultural
community of scholars we are assembling at Khalifa
University will prepare you to face these challenges, and to
enter society prepared to make your unique contribution to
the solutions demanded by them.
Khalifa University is a dynamic institution that has a
proven track record of providing high quality education
and achievements. The University strives to create a
learning culture that exemplifies excellence in teaching
and scholarship, emphasizes faculty- student interaction,
promotes lifelong learning, and prepares individuals for
leadership and service in the global society.
Khalifa University has a portfolio of graduate programs that
are designed to meet the criteria set by the appropriate
national and international accreditation bodies. The
University academic staff consists of highly qualified,
experienced, and dedicated professionals, who are always
willing to impart their knowledge and experience to their
students. The University campuses in Abu Dhabi and
Sharjah have first class facilities, both inside and outside
the classroom, which will make your learning experience
productive and enjoyable.
This Catalog is designed to give you information and advice
to make your study decisions easier. Decisions about which
major to study, specializations, and course selection require
careful consideration. Whatever study program you wish
to pursue, this Catalog will help you plan your degree from
admission to graduation.
If you need more information or advice, please take
advantage of the experience and professional expertise of
our faculty and administrative staff. Your academic advisor
will be happy to give you the appropriate advice.
I look forward to meeting you on our campuses in Abu
Dhabi and Sharjah, and to sharing the great adventure of
university life with you and the rest of our community. I
believe you will find Khalifa University to be an exciting,
stimulating and supportive environment in which to shape
your future.
DR. TOD A. LAURSEN
President, Khalifa University
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ACADEMIC CALENDAR2014-2015
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The University
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
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3.1 HISTORY
Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research
was inaugurated on 13 February 2007 by the President
of the UAE: His Highness Sheik Khalifa bin Zayed Al
Nahyan. The board of Trustees which is chaired by His
Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme
Commander of the UAE Armed Forces was announced
on 26 February 2008. The University is an Abu Dhabi
Government initiative and is owned solely by the Emirate
of Abu Dhabi.
The University opened its current campus in Abu Dhabi in
October 2008 to add to the campus in Sharjah (formerly
Etisalat University College). The Sharjah branch campus
has a very proud history that stretches back to 1989 and on
11 February 2008 was merged with the University to form
the foundation of Khalifa University.
Khalifa University offers a wide range of programs that
are designed to be flexible, competitive, and intellectually
stimulating.
3.2 BOARD OF TRUSTEES
H.H. General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al NahyanCrown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme
Commander of the UAE Armed Forces (Chairman)
H.H. Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al NahyanChairman, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince’s Court (CPC)
H.E. Eng. Hussain I.Al HammadiMinister of Education, UAE
(Member)
H.E. Dr. Mugheer Al KhailiChairman, Health Authority of Abu Dhabi
(Member)
H.E. Ali Rashid Qanas Al KetbiChairman, Tawteen
(Member)
H.E. Mohammed Hassan OmranChancellor, Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT)
(Member)
H.E. Professor Elias ZerhouniPresident, Global R & D, Sanofi
(Member)
H.E. Sir John O’Reilly(Member)
3.3 VISION
To be a leading international center of higher education and
research in technology and science.
3.4 MISSION
Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research
is an independent, non-profit coeducational institution,
dedicated to the advancement of learning through teaching
and research and to the discovery and application of
knowledge. It pursues international recognition as a world
class research university, with a strong tradition of inter-
disciplinary teaching and research and of partnering with
leading universities around the world.
The University endeavours to serve the Emirate of Abu
Dhabi, UAE society, the region and the world by providing
an environment of creative enquiry within which critical
thinking, human values, technical competence and practical
and social skills, business acumen and a capability for
lifetime learning are cultivated and sustained. It sets
itself high standards in providing a caring, rewarding and
enriching environment for all of its students and staff. It
ensures that its graduates, on entering the workplace,
form a superlative cadre of engineers, technologists and
scientists, capable of making major contributions to the
current and future sectors of UAE industry and society as
leaders and innovators.
The University insists on the highest world class standards
of academic excellence in all that it does. It complements
other universities in the region by providing, in its chosen
areas of activity, the best teaching and research available in
the region. It strives to meet demands for expansion while
never compromising on quality.
3.5 LICENSURE AND ACCREDITATION
Khalifa University is licensed by the UAE Ministry of Higher
Education and Scientific Research (MoHE). All academic
programs offered by the University are recognized
by MoHE and have been awarded either full or initial
accreditation status.
3.6 FINANCIAL RESOURCES
Khalifa University is a not-for-profit institution. All the
financial needs of the University are supported by the
Government of Abu Dhabi. The University has two purpose
built campuses; one in Abu Dhabi, where the central
administration for the University is located, and the second
one in Sharjah.
THE UNIVERSITY
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Applicationfor Admission
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
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4.1 REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
4.1.1 Full Admission RequirementsCandidates for the masters programs must have a
Bachelors degree with a minimum Cumulative Grade
Point Average (CGPA) score of 3.0 out of 4.0 or equivalent
(e.g. an upper second-class honors degree) in the relevant
discipline as specified by the applicable program.
Candidates for the doctorate programs must have a
Masters degree with a minimum CGPA score of 3.0 out
of 4.0 or equivalent (e.g., a minimum average of 60% in a
UK-style Master by taught courses or a Pass in a Master by
Research / M.Phil.) in the relevant discipline as specified by
the applicable program.
Candidates with degrees in other pertinent specializations
(not explicitly specified by the applicable program) may also
be considered. In such cases, candidates will be asked to
submit course descriptions along with their transcripts.
Candidates must have achieved a minimum level of
proficiency in English in the form of a valid TOEFL score
of 79 iBT or an equivalent test score approved by the
University (e.g., a minimum valid Academic IELTS score
of 6.0 out of 9). TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid for 2
calendar years only from the test date.
The following exceptions may apply to candidates for the
masters programs:
1. A native speaker of English who has completed his/her
undergraduate education in an English medium institution
in a country where English is the official language.
2. A candidate admitted to and graduated from an English
medium institution that can provide evidence of acquiring
a minimum TOEFL score of 61 iBT or its equivalent (e.g.,
a minimum Academic IELTS score of 5.0 out of 9) upon
admission to the undergraduate program.
Candidates must provide an official GRE (Graduate
Record Exam) score. The GRE General Test is required for
all programs.
In addition to satisfying all the above, candidates must
undergo an interview to determine the suitability of the
candidate for undertaking the program of work.
Candidates wishing to enroll on a part-time basis must
satisfy the University authorities that their employer will
provide the time for the candidate to attend the University
as specified in the Duration of Study section of this Catalog.
4.1.2 CONDITIONAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTSApplicants with no or insufficient prior background to
meet the prerequisites of a given masters program
may be admitted to the program but will be assigned
undergraduate courses and/or specially tailored remedial
courses as specified by the relevant program. Credits from
these prerequisite bridging courses do not count toward
fulfillment of degree requirements and are not used to
calculate the graduate CGPA.
For masters programs, applicants with lower qualifications
(a minimum CGPA score of 2.5 out of 4.0, or a minimum
lower second-class honors degree, or their equivalent)
and/ or lower English language proficiency (a minimum
valid TOEFL score of 70 iBT, or a minimum valid Academic
IELTS score of 5.5, or their equivalent) may be admitted to
the program in special circumstances and at the discretion
of the University.
Such applicants will be given conditional admittance and
their performance will be assessed as follows:
– The student must achieve an overall grade point
average of 3.00 on a 4.0 scale in the first nine credit
hours of credit-bearing courses studied for the
Master’s program.
– The student must achieve a minimum TOEFL score of
79 iBT or or its equivalent (e.g. a minimum IELTS score
of 6.0) by the end of the first semester of registration.
– The candidate must submit an official GRE score in
the General Test by the end of the first semester of
registration.
If the student fails to satisfy the above conditions, then his/
her registration will be terminated.
4.1.3 Transfer StudentsNo prior credits will be transferred. Also no credits will
be awarded for advanced standing or for work or life
experiences. Thus, all successful applicants will be
admitted as new students.
4.2 AVAILABILITY OF PLACES
4.2.1 Number of PlacesThe maximum number of students who can be admitted
to a given program is directly dependent on the number
of faculty assigned to the program in addition to other
relevant factors.
4.2.2 Admission PolicyIn all cases, admission will be on a competitive basis. The
final decision regarding the admission of an applicant will
be made by the President, in consultation with the Provost,
the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and Research,
the Graduate Studies Committee, and the relevant
Program Chair.
The selection of candidates will be made on the basis
of their application form, supporting documents, and
their performance in the interview. Selection will take
into account factors such as the candidates’ graduation
average or CGPA score, their qualifications and previous
experience, their CV, their reference forms, and their
potential to succeed.
4.3 APPLICATION PROCEDURE4.3.1 Submission of ApplicationApplicants should complete an online application form and
forward all supporting documents required below to the
Admission Office. In addition, applicants should forward
the reference letter forms to three nominated referees.
Applications must be made by the Application Deadlines
published by the University.
The following items should be included with the application
form:
1. Certified copies of the applicant’s graduation
certificates along with official transcripts showing
grading scale.
2. Equivalency certificate from the UAE Ministry of
Higher Education (for candidates graduated from
outside the UAE)
3. Evidence of English language proficiency, e.g. TOEFL
or IELTS results.
4. An official GRE (Graduate Record Exam) score. The
GRE General Test is required for all programs.
5. Four recent passport size photographs.
6. Three reference letters
7. Photocopy of the applicant’s passport.
8. Photocopy of khulasat al-qaid (for UAE nationals).
9. Photocopy of the applicant’s UAE National ID.
10. Detailed Curriculum Vita (CV).
11. Evidence of the ability to pay fees, e.g. sponsorship
letter.
All documents supplied for admission purposes are
the property of the University and will not be returned
regardless of whether the applicant is accepted or not.
The Admission Office will acknowledge receipt of properly
completed application forms, once verification of the
supporting documentation has been carried out.
4.3.2 THESIS TOPIC SELECTIONFor research based programs, the applicant may select
from the list of available research thesis topics published
by the University, or alternatively may suggest his/her own
topic. In the latter case, the applicant must consult with
a potential supervisor and must ascertain whether or not
this supervisor would be prepared to recommend his/her
proposal to the relevant Program Chair. Candidates may
seek guidance from the relevant Program Chair on the
appropriate supervisors to consult.
4.3.3 Assessment of ApplicationsThe relevant Program Chair will constitute and chair a
panel to interview the candidate (normally the panel will
contain a program faculty/a potential supervisor). If the
candidate cannot attend the interview, an interview over
the telephone will be arranged. At the conclusion of the
interview, the panel will forward a written recommendation
to the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and
Research, who will pass all completed applications along
with recommendations from the interviewing panel to
the Graduate Studies Committee. The Committee will
consider the applications and make its recommendations.
In particular, the committee will check:
1. That the candidate possesses the required
qualifications;
2. That there is enough evidence that the candidate has
the ability to carry out the program of work or research
in the specified area;
3. That there are adequate arrangements for supervision;
4. If there is a research component to the program:
a. That the relevant expertise and facilities are
available within the University to support the
research program indicated;
b. That the proposed research program is of
appropriate standard in terms of its timeliness,
relevance to industry, level of intellectual
challenge, novelty, etc.
c. That the proposed research program is
appropriate for the award of the degree.
The Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and Research
will then review all completed applications, make final
recommendations, and forward to the Provost for referral
to the President for consideration and decision on
admission.
4.3.4 Eligibility for AdmissionIt is the responsibility of the Associate Provost for
Graduate Studies and Research, in consultation with the
Graduate Studies Committee and the relevant Program
Chair, to ensure that the candidate possesses the required
qualifications, that there is enough evidence the candidate
has the ability to carry out the program of work or research,
and that there are adequate resources and arrangements
for thesis supervision. If research is to be conducted as
part of the program, the Associate Provost for Graduate
Studies and Research, in consultation with the Graduate
APPLICATION FORADMISSION
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
18 19
APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION
Studies Committee and the relevant Program Chair, must
also ensure that the research chosen by an applicant can
be effectively undertaken in the University.
The Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and
Research may decline to accept a student if he/she is not
satisfied that these conditions can be met. It is also the
responsibility of the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies
and Research to ensure that no members of faculty/staff
are required or allowed to take on more graduate teaching
and supervision of students than they can reasonably take
without adversely affecting their other responsibilities.
The Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and Research
should also make provision for the continued supervision of
graduate students whose supervisors are no longer able or
available to carry out their duties.
4.3.5 Decision and RegistrationThe Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and Research
will notify the Graduate Studies Committee and the
relevant Program Chair of the final decisions on admission.
Successful candidates will then be notified in writing by the
Admission and Registration Office and will be required to
register formally with the University.
All admission decisions by the University are taken in good
faith on the basis of the statements on the application
form. If the University discovers that the applicant
has made a false statement or has omitted significant
information on the application form, it may withdraw its
offer, or terminate the applicant’s registration.
All graduate students are required to re-register on
a semester basis. Such re-registration is subject to
satisfactory progress.
4.3.6 Deferred AdmissionsAdmission is valid only for the academic semester
specified in the admission letter. If an applicant is given
admission and for some reason does not register but
intends to join the University in the following semester,
then he/she should submit a written request to the
Admission and Registration Office not later than one
month before the beginning of the semester. Admission
consideration for the following semester will depend on
availability of places.
4.4 FEES AND SCHOLARSHIPS
4.4.1 DisclaimerThe University reserves the right to modify the published
scale of tuition and other fees without prior notice, at any
time before the beginning of an academic semester. The
most up to date tuition and fees information is available
from the Admission and Registration Office.
4.4.2 Normal Tuition Fees
Students Admitted Starting Fall 2012
Graduate Program Per Credit Hour Tuition (AED)
Master AED 5,000 per credit hour
Doctorate AED 6,666 per credit hour
Students Admitted Prior to Fall 2012
Graduate Program Per Credit Hour Tuition (AED)
Master
AED 150,000 per year
(for full-time)
AED 75,000 per year
(for part-time)
Doctorate
200,000 per year
(for full-time)
AED 100,000 per year
(for part-time)
4.4.3 Writing-Up Reduced FeesFor programs with a thesis component, a student,
depending on his/her progress, may be transferred to
“Writing-Up Status” by the end of the minimum period of
study. In this case:
– The student will be asked to register for a minimum of
one credit hour per semester and will accordingly be
charged the appropriate per credit hour tuition.
– The student will have limited access to resources.
This will only include access to email, general-purpose
computing and internet cilities, and the library.
– The student will not be entitled to substantive
supervision. Supervision, in this case, will be limited to
advising the student on the methodology and form of
presentation of the thesis, and assisting the student to
plan for the viva voce thesis examination.
4.4.4 Fees during RevisionsFor programs with a thesis component, students who are
required to carry out major revisions to their thesis by the
external examiner will be asked to pay reduced fees similar
to the “Writing-Up Status” fees, indicated in the previous
section, until the work is completed.
4.4.5 Payment and PenaltiesStudents may be allowed to pay their fees on a quarterly
basis (one payment every 3 months in advance). The
registration of students who fail to pay the due amount
on time will be suspended until they do so. Access to
laboratories, computing resources and supervisors will also
be denied until the required payment is made.
4.4.6 RefundsStudents who drop a course on or before the add/drop
deadline of a semester will be entitled to a refund of the
fees of the dropped course. Failure to attend a course (no
show) does not result in an automatic refund of fees.
Students who leave their program, or who are asked to
leave their program, on or before the add/drop deadline of
a semester will be entitled to a refund of their fees for that
semester. Students who leave their program, or who are
asked to leave their program, after the add/drop deadline of
a semester will be charged full fees for that semester.
4.4.7 ScholarshipsKhalifa University has a number of scholarships as briefly
described in the sections below. More details can be
found at http://www.kustar.ac.ae/admissions/graduate/scholarships/scholarships.aspx
4.4.7.1 Buhooth ScholarshipsKhalifa University has Scholarships under the Buhooth
program to help qualified UAE national students enroll on
its graduate programs. The scholarships have generous
remuneration and benefits that include:
– Attractive monthly salary,
– Full payment of all tuition fees
– Support for attending conferences.
4.4.7.2 Teaching Assistant ScholarshipsKhalifa University has Teaching Assistant Scholarships to
help qualified expatriate (international) students enroll on
its graduate programs. The scholarships have generous
remuneration and benefits that include:
– Attractive monthly stipend,
– Full payment of all tuition fees
– Support for attending conferences.
4.4.7.3 Waived-Fees ScholarshipsKhalifa University offers this scholarship to help employed
UAE nationals to enroll on its graduate programs on part-
time basis.
20 21
ProgramStructure
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
22 23
5.1 ACADEMIC YEARThe academic year at Khalifa University consists of two
regular semesters and a summer term. The two regular
semesters which are referred to as the fall semester and
the spring semester, consist of 15 weeks of teaching and
final examinations period. The summer term lasts for five
to six weeks of teaching.
5.2 CREDIT HOURThe unit of measurement of academic work at Khalifa
University is the credit hour. It ordinarily represents one
lecture hour per week for one semester. A sequence of
three laboratory hours per week or two hours of problem
solving sessions per week are considered to be the
equivalent of one credit hour. A lecture hour has a nominal
duration of fifty minutes. Credit hours are also referred to
as credits or semester credit hours.
Each course offered at the University has a unique code,
a title and a credit value. A list of courses offered may be
found in this Catalog. In addition, the Catalog contains a
brief description of the course content and any required
prerequisites or co-requisites. The course code consists
of four letters that reflect its discipline or field of study,
followed by a three-digit number that indicates its level.
The title of the course gives an indication of its content.
The credit value of the course has three numbers; the
first one gives the number of lecture hours per week, the
second shows the number of laboratory or problem solving
hours per week, and the third one gives the overall credit
value of the course which will contribute to the particular
degree requirements.
The example below further explains the course code and
value information.
Math 601
Letter part of
the code
Numerical part
of the code
Engineering Mathematical
Analysis
(3-0-3)
course title
5.3 PROGRAM COMPONENTS
5.3.1 MSc by ResearchAn MSc by Research degree is typically equivalent to
36 credit hours. It is awarded by the University for
independent investigation of specialized areas and
completion of 10 credits of taught courses. Candidates for
this degree are supervised by experienced researchers and
are expected to demonstrate initiative in their approach
and innovation in their work. M.Sc. by research candidates
prepare and present a thesis on their chosen area. Research
may be undertaken in several topics corresponding to the
areas of focus identified by the University.
5.3.2 MSc by Courses and ThesisAn MSc by Courses and Thesis program is typically
equivalent to 36 credit hours. Such program consists of
two main components:
1. Taught Courses Component: in this component
the student is required to complete a program of
advanced study in a given area. This component is
typically equivalent to 24 credit hours and consists
normally of eight courses, with 3 credit-hours each.
The eight courses (24 credit-hours) typically consist of
a combination of core and elective courses. The taught
courses component typically contributes 2/3 of the
overall graduation GPA.
2. Thesis Component: in this component the student
is required to carry out an independent investigation
in the area of study. This component is typically
equivalent to 12 credit-hours and as such typically
contributes 1/3 of the overall graduation GPA.
5.3.3 PhDA PhD program consists of two main components:
1. Taught Courses Component: In this component the
student is required to complete a program of advanced
study. This component is typically equivalent to 24
credit- hours and consists typically of six courses. The
six courses (24 credit-hours) typically consist of one
core course on research methods and five courses
selected from a list of electives.
2. Research Component: In this component the student
is required to carry out an independent investigation of
a specialized area of study.
For the award of the PhD degree, the student must satisfy
the following requirements:
1. Courses: The student must satisfy the taught courses
requirements of the program;
2. Research Proposal: In addition to satisfying the taught
courses requirements of the program, the student is
required to prepare a research proposal and pass a
research proposal examination before being allowed to
progress further on the program;
3. Thesis: The student must then complete a thesis on
original research and defend it successfully in a viva
voce examination.
5.4 MODES OF STUDYStudents will be admitted on both full-time and part-
time basis.
During the taught courses part of a program, full-time study
involves registration on 3–4 courses (9–12 credit-hours)
per semester, whereas part-time study typically involves
registration on 2 courses (6-8 credit-hours) per semester.
Registration during the Summer term is limited to a
maximum of 2 courses (6 credit-hours). Enrollment in credit
loads below/ above these standard limits requires advance
written approval of the relevant Program Chair and the
Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and Research.
During the thesis/research part of a program, full-time
study involves approximately 40 hours of effort per week,
whereas part-time study involves approximately 24 hours
of effort per week.
During the thesis/research part of a program, part-time
students are required to attend the University for at
least two hours per week to meet with their supervisor.
Employers should, however, try to enable their students
to attend the University for one day a week. This is
particularly important for experimentally based theses.
5.5 DURATION OF STUDY5.5.1 MScThe minimum period of study will be 1.5 years (3 regular
semesters) from the date of first registration in the
case of full-time registration and 2.5 years (5 regular
semesters) from the date of first registration in the case
of part-time registration.
The maximum period of study will be 2 years (4 regular
semesters) from the date of first registration in the case
of full-time registration and 3 years (6 regular semesters)
from the date of first registration in the case of part-
time registration. In exceptional cases, an extension of
registration may be granted.
5.5.2 PhDThe minimum period of study will be 3 years (6 regular
semesters) from the date of first registration in the case
of full-time registration and 5 years (10 regular semesters)
from the date of first registration in the case of part- time
registration. This study period includes the time taken to
write-up the thesis.
The maximum period of study will be 5 years from the date
of first registration in the case of full-time registration and 8
years from the date of first registration in the case of part-
time registration. This study period includes the time taken
to write-up the thesis. In exceptional cases, an extension
of registration may be granted.
PROGRAMSTRUCTURE
lecture hoursper week
lab hoursper week
overall credit value
24 25
Grading System& Registration
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
26 27
6.1 GRADING SYSTEM
6.1.1 Course GradesThe grading system is based on letter grades that are
assigned according to the grading scheme adopted by the
instructor in charge of a particular course. The following is
indicative of typical percentage grade ranges associated
with letter grades:
Letter Grade Percentage Grade Range
A+
A
A-
B+
B
B-
C+
C
F
97%-100%
93%-96%
90%-92%
87%-89%
83%-86%
80%-82%
77%-79%
73%-76%
< 73%
In order to assess the student’s academic standing, each
letter grade is assigned a grade point on a four-point scale
as set out below.
Letter Grade Grade Point Description
A+ 4.00 Exceptional
A 4.00 Excellent
A- 3.70Very Good
B+ 3.30
B 3.00Good
B- 2.70
C+ 2.30Satisfactory
C 2.00
F 0.00 Fail
WF 0.00 Withdrawal Fail
Other letter grades that may be used but do not have
corresponding grade points, and hence not used in the
calculation of the grade point average are:
Letter Grade Description
W
Withdrawn
(Between 2nd and 10th
Week of Classes)
PPass (in a Pass/Fail
Course)
U Fail (in a Pass/Fail Course)
I Incomplete
IP In Progress
AUD Audit
EX Exempt; no credit
TR Transfer; credit counted
N No Grade Submitted
6.1.2 Grade Point AverageThe grade point average (GPA) is the cumulative
numerical average of the student progress at the
University. It is reflective of the credit hours the student
has attempted and the grades that the student has
earned. Therefore, the GPA is calculated by multiplying
the grade point value of the letter grade by the number of
credit hours of the course. The result is the quality points
that the student has achieved in the particular course.
The sum of the quality points of the courses taken is
then divided by their total credit hours to obtain the GPA.
Grades without a corresponding grade point (W, P, U, I, IP,
AUD, EX, TR and N) are not included in the computation
of the GPA. A student transcript will have a semester
GPA (SGPA) and a cumulative GPA (CGPA). The former
only reflects the student’s performance in a particular
semester, while the latter reflects the overall student
performance in all the attempted credits since the first
enrolment at the University.
The CGPA is classified as follows:
CGPA Description
3.70-4.00 Excellent
3.30-3.69 Very Good
3.00-3.29 Good
Below 3.00 Fail
6.2 REGISTRATION
6.2.1 Registration ProcessThe Office of Registration is responsible for the
management of the registration process by which students
enroll in classes. A registration guide is available to every
student before the registration period begins. Registration
policies and procedures for each semester are described in
the Schedule of Classes.
Through the registration process, students assume
academic and financial responsibilities for the classes
in which they enroll. They are relieved of these
responsibilities only by formally terminating enrolment
by dropping or withdrawing from classes in accordance
with procedures and deadlines specified in the Academic
Calendar each semester. Registration in the student’s
absence or by way of proxy is normally not permitted for
new students.
6.2.2 Registration DeadlinesKhalifa University policies determine when students may
enroll or adjust their enrolment in classes. The Office of
Registration has the most up to date information regarding
these policies. The registration period as well as other
important dates are published in the Academic Calendar.
6.2.3 Number of DegreesA student may be registered at any time for one degree
only, and work to be submitted for a degree cannot be
submitted elsewhere for a degree or other similar award.
6.2.4 Withdrawal from CoursesStudents are permitted to withdraw from courses.
Students with full-time status must normally maintain a
minimum load of 9 credit-hours per semester, whereas
students with part-time status must normally maintain a
minimum load of 6 credit-hours per semester. However,
under exceptional circumstances a student’s credit load may
be allowed to drop below these minimum requirements.
Drop and Add a course: Students are allowed to drop and/
or add courses during the first week of the fall and spring
semesters. Such changes in courses are not recorded in
the students’ transcripts. Students interested in dropping
or adding courses should consult with their respective
academic advisor.
Withdraw or Drop a course with grade of (W) recorded: A
student may withdraw from a course no later than the end
of the 10th week of classes in the semester. The grade of
(W) recorded on the transcript for the course from which
the student has withdrawn will not affect his/her GPA. No
students will be allowed to drop a course without a grade
recorded after this deadline, unless there are extenuating
circumstances recognized by the University, such as
serious illness. Unsatisfactory academic performance itself
is not an extenuating circumstance.
Withdraw or Drop a course with grade of (WF) recorded:
A student can drop a course after the 10th week of the
beginning of classes in the semester and up to the last day
of classes, with a recorded grade Withdraw Fail (WF). The
grade point of WF is 0.00, and is used in the calculation of
the GPA.
6.2.5 Withdrawal from the UniversityAny student voluntarily leaving the University before the
close of the term must withdraw officially. A student
initiates the withdrawal procedure and files the completed
form at the Office of Admissions and Registration in
person or by letter. A withdrawal is effective when the
form or letter is received by the Office of Admission and
Registration. A student who withdraws from the University
after the 1st week and before the end of the 10th week
of classes will receive the grade of (W) for all courses in
progress. Students withdrawing after the 10th week and
before the last day of classes will receive WF in each
course. Any student who leaves the University before
the close of a semester without withdrawing officially will
receive a failing grade (F) in each course for which he/she
is registered.
6.2.6 Leave of Absence and ReinstatementA student in good academic standing is allowed no more
than two consecutive semesters leave of absence. The
student must complete a Leave of Absence form at the
Office of Admissions and Registration.
A student may apply for a leave of absence once
throughout the duration of his/her graduate study at the
University.
To resume studies after a leave of absence a student must
complete a Reactivation form at the Office of Admissions
and Registration.
A student who is out of the University, for any reason,
for more than two consecutive semesters must submit
a new application for re-admission, to the Office of
Admissions, prior to the semester or summer term for
which registration is sought. Students who have been
out of the university, for any reason, for more than two
consecutive semesters will be required to comply with the
most current plan of study.
6.2.7 Academic StandingA student’s academic standing is determined by his/her
CGPA.
Good StandingIn order to be considered in good standing, graduate
students must maintain a CGPA of at least 3.0.
Academic ProbationStudents are placed on academic probation if their CGPA
falls below 3.0. A full-time student on probation is only
GRADING SYSTEM ANDREGISTRATION
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
28 29
allowed to register for a maximum of 9 credit-hours per
semester whereas a part-time student on probation is
only allowed to register for a maximum of 8 credit-hours
per semester. Probation ends at the close of a regular
semester if students have attained a minimum CGPA of
3.0. Students, who do not end probation within one regular
semester, excluding the summer term, are subject to
dismissal from the academic program.
6.2.8 Repetition of CoursesNormally graduate courses cannot be repeated. However,
with the recommendation of the relevant Program Chair,
in consultation with the Graduate Studies Committee, and
the approval of the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies
and Research, a student may repeat a taught course for
which he/she received a letter grade of B-, C+, or C. A
student will be allowed to repeat a course for which he/
she received a letter grade of F or WF only in exceptional
circumstances and at the discretion of the Graduate
Studies Committee.
The repetition of taught courses is subject to the following
guidelines:
– A student will be allowed to repeat a given taught
course only once.
– Degree credit for a taught course is given only once,
but the grade assigned each time the course is taken
is permanently recorded on the transcript.
– Only the highest grade earned for a repeated course
will be used in the calculation of the GPA.
– For prerequisite purposes, the highest grade earned
for a repeated course will be used.
– A student will be allowed to repeat a maximum of
2 taught courses throughout the taught courses
component of the program.
6.2.9 Continued RegistrationStudents are required to re-register with the University on
a semester basis. Continued registration is dependent on
the recommendation of the Associate Provost for Graduate
Studies and Research. The final decision on re-registration
is taken by the Provost.
6.2.10 ExtensionsA student must complete his/her work within the period
specified in the relevant Duration of Study section of this
Catalog. The student may request to extend beyond the
maximum period of study. The student should seek the
support of the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and
Research, through the relevant Program Chair, before the
submission of such a request.
In exceptional cases, an extension of registration may be
granted by the President on the recommendation of the
Provost and the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies
and Research.
6.2.11 Dismissal or Suspension from the UniversityThe President, on the recommendation of the Provost and
the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and Research,
may terminate the student’s registration for any of the
reasons detailed below.
– A student will be dismissed from the University if,
during the taught courses component of the program,
he/she absents himself/herself for 15 successive days
without a valid reason.
– A student will be dismissed from the University if he/
she fails to satisfy the progression rules of the program.
– A student will be dismissed from the University if he/
she fails to satisfy the completion requirements of
the program.
– A student will be dismissed from the University if he/
she does not maintain adequate contact with his/her
thesis supervisor.
– A student can be suspended/dismissed from the
University as per the Class Discipline Policy.
Students found cheating, assisting other students, or using
methods deemed unfair during course examinations, will
have their paper cancelled and a severe disciplinary action
will be taken that may lead to the suspension/dismissal
from the University as decided by University President
after investigation of the incident.
Severe violation of the University discipline rules may lead
to the dismissal from the University.
6.2.12 Readmission to the UniversityA student who was dismissed from the University will not
be readmitted to the University.
A student who was suspended for a certain period from
the University can be readmitted to the University after
completion of the suspension period, but only after signing
an undertaking of not repeating the cause of suspension
again. Recurring incidents from the same student will be
notified to the Provost and could result in dismissal from
the University.
GRADING SYSTEM AND REGISTRATION
30 31
Progression & Completion of Requirements
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
32 33
7.1 MSC BY RESEARCH IN ENGINEERING
7.1.1 Research Thesis Progress7.1.1.1 Initial and Annual Progress ReportsProgress reports should be completed by the student and
his/her supervisor and submitted by the supervisor to the
relevant Program Chair. The Program Chair will forward
copies of Progress Reports to the Graduate Studies
Committee for review. A first progress report must be
submitted three months after the first registration and a
second report must be submitted six months after the first
registration. Those initial progress reports must then be
followed by progress reports at six monthly intervals.
7.1.1.2 Continued RegistrationContinued registration for the degree of MSc by Research
is dependent on the submission of satisfactory progress
reports. The Associate Provost for Graduate Studies
and Research, in consultation with the Graduate Studies
Committee, the relevant Program Chair, the supervisor and
such other members of faculty/staff as may be appropriate,
will only recommend continuing registration if the student
has clearly established to the faculty/staff concerned
sufficient promise that it seems reasonable to allow him/
her to proceed. The final decision on re- registration is
taken by the Provost.
7.1.1.3 Transfer to Writing-Up StatusUnder normal circumstances, a student coming to the
end of their minimum period of study should move into
“Writing-Up Status”.
Transfer to “Writing-Up Status” is carried out through the
normal process of progress review described above. The
Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and Research will
only recommend transfer of the student to the “Writing-Up
Status” if the student has clearly established to the faculty/
staff concerned that he/she has essentially completed all
the experimental and/or theoretical work and that he/she is
ready to start, or has already started, writing-up the thesis.
If the recommendation is not favorable, the Associate
Provost for Graduate Studies and Research will specify a
period of time after which the progress of the student will
be reviewed again. The final decision on transfer of the
student to the “Writing-Up Status” is taken by the Provost.
If the student is transferred to the “Writing-Up Status”
then the following arrangements will apply:
– The student will be charged a “Writing-Up Status”
reduced fees until he/she submits the thesis for
examination.
– The student will have limited access to resources.
This will only include access to email, general-purpose
computing and internet facilities, and the library.
– The student will not be entitled to substantive
supervision. Supervision, in this case, will be limited to
advising the student on the methodology and form of
presentation of the thesis, and assisting the student to
plan for the viva voce thesis examination.
If the student reaches the end of the minimum period
of study, but his/her progress does not warrant transfer
to “Writing-Up Status”, then he/she will continue as a
normally registered student. In this case the student
will continue to pay normal tuition fees, until he/she is
transferred to “Writing-Up Status”. The student will
also continue to receive substantive supervision and will
continue to have full access to resources.
7.1.1.4 ExtensionsIn exceptional cases, an extension of registration may
be granted by the President on the recommendation of
the Provost and Associate Provost for Graduate Studies
and Research, as advised by the Graduate Studies
and Research Advisory Panel, the Graduate Studies
Committee, the relevant Program Chair and the supervisor.
7.1.1.5 Termination of RegistrationIf satisfactory progress is not being made, the President,
on the recommendation of the Provost and the Associate
Provost for Graduate Studies and Research, the Graduate
Studies Committee, the relevant Program Chair and the
supervisor, may terminate the student’s registration.
The progress of students who do not maintain adequate
contact with their supervisor may also be deemed
unsatisfactory and their registration may also be
terminated. Students who fail to maintain regular contact
with their supervisor (at least once every two weeks for a
full-time student and at least once a month for a part-time
student) without good reason (e.g. on medical grounds
or other reasons acceptable to the University authorities)
will be issued with a written warning by the academic
thesis supervisor who will also inform the Associate
Provost for Graduate Studies and Research through the
relevant Program Chair. Once three such warnings have
been issued, the matter will be discussed by the Graduate
Studies Committee. The committee will make suitable
recommendations to the Associate Provost for Graduate
Studies and Research, and subsequently the Provost and
President, regarding the action to be taken.
7.1.2 Examination7.1.2.1 Examination and Assessment ProceduresThe following regulations regarding the examination of an
MSc by Research thesis will apply:
1. Candidates for the degree of MSc by research will
be assessed on the basis of a written thesis and an
oral viva voce examination conducted by examiners
approved by the Associate Provost for Graduate
Studies and Research.
2. Each candidate for the degree of M.Sc. by research
will be examined by at least one internal examiner and
at least one external examiner.
3. Internal and external examiners will be appointed
by the President, taking into account nominations
provided by the supervisor, in consultation with the
relevant Program Chair, and approved by the Provost
and Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and
Research. The internal and external examiners should
not be the Supervisor.
4. The result of the examination will be communicated
by the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and
Research through the Provost to the President for
subsequent consideration by the Board of Trustees.
5. All candidates for the degree of M.Sc. by research
shall be informed in writing by the Associate Provost
for Graduate Studies and Research of their official
position following the meeting of the Board of
Trustees.
6. If minor corrections and revisions to the thesis are
requested by the examiners, then the period for
implementing such corrections and revisions shall be
normally not more than 2 months.
7. Re-submission of an unsuccessful candidate may only
take place with the approval of the Board of Trustees
on the recommendation of the examiners concerned.
In such cases, the period for major revision of the
thesis and/or presentation for re- examination shall be
normally not more than one year.
8. Regulations governing the format of the thesis to be
submitted for the award of M.Sc. by research are
detailed in the respective Program Manual of Rules,
Regulations and Standards. All theses submitted
must conform strictly with these regulations and
requirements.
9. The Candidate must submit three copies of the final
version of the thesis within 30 days of his/her name
appearing on a pass list.
7.1.1.2 Required StandardsFor the award of the degree of M.Sc. by Research, a level
of achievement similar to that sought by other universities
internationally is expected. In his/her thesis and during the
viva voce examination, a candidate for the degree of M.Sc.
by Research is required to:
1. demonstrate a good level of understanding and
specialization in his/her field of study
2. show evidence that he/she is able to conduct
independent investigation with rigor and discrimination
3. show an appreciation of the relationship of the area of
his/her research to a wider field of knowledge
4. demonstrate a critical appreciation of the literature in
his/her area of research
5. make a contribution to the body of knowledge in his/
her field of study
6. demonstrate an ability to appraise critically his/
her contribution in the context of his/her overall
investigation
7. constructively defend his/her research outcomes
8. write clearly, accurately, cogently, and in a style
appropriate to purpose
9. construct coherent arguments and articulate ideas
clearly
7.2 MSC BY COURSES AND THESIS
7.2.1 Course Assessment7.2.1.1 Assessment ProcedureCourses are normally assessed through a combination
of coursework, including assignments and projects, and
examinations.
7.2.1.2 Progression RulesThe pass grade in every course is C.
A student is deemed to have failed a course if his/her
course grade is less than the pass grade of C.
Normally taught courses cannot be repeated. The
repetition of taught courses is subject to the guidelines in
section 6.2 above.
7.2.2 Thesis Assessment7.2.2.1 Thesis RegistrationEach student will undertake an independent investigation
and write a thesis in the area of the program. Students
will normally select their thesis topics from a list published
annually by the University.
In order to register for the thesis, the student must pass a
minimum of 9 credits of courses, including core courses,
be in good academic standing, and have the approval of
the particular program chair. Additional program specific
requirements may be applicable.
7.2.2.2 Thesis Topic AllocationTowards the end of the semester preceding registration
for the thesis component, students are required to obtain
from the relevant Program Chair a list of thesis topics and
then select three choices and submit them to the Program
Chair during the first week of the next semester. Thesis
topics will be allocated by the Program Chair with the aim
of ensuring that all students receive one of their chosen
PROGRESSION AND COMPLETIONOF REQUIREMENTS
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
34 35
topics (preferably their first choice) and that no member of
faculty/staff is required or allowed to take on more student
than they can reasonably supervise without adversely
affecting their other responsibilities.
7.2.2.3 Assignment of Thesis Second GradersIn addition to the supervisor(s), the Program Chair will
assign a Thesis Second Grader for each allocated thesis
topic. The Second Grader will normally be selected from
the University faculty and will normally be active in the
general area of the thesis topic.
7.2.2.4 Assessment ProceduresThe thesis assessment is normally broken down into the
following parts:
• Thesis Proposal and Initial Presentation (5%)
• Thesis Progress Report and Interim Presentation
(10%)
• Thesis and Final Presentation (85%)
Both the Supervisor and Second Grader must complete
a separate assessment sheet and should do so
independently. Observations and remarks should be
recorded in the allotted section. The Second Grader should
only consult the Supervisor to clarify any technical points
and should not discuss the grade he/she or the Supervisor
is awarding. Both sheets are then submitted to the
Program Chair.
7.2.2.5 Thesis Proposal and Initial PresentationNormally the student will submit the Thesis Proposal 5
weeks after the first registration of the thesis (or 7 weeks
for part-time students). The Thesis Proposal should clearly
specify the following:
• The main research problem that the student intends to
work on and why it is important.
• The kind of result which the student hopes to achieve,
and why it would be of significant value in the area of
the thesis.
• The general strategy that the student intends to
pursue in dealing with the research problem, together
with a work-plan for the stages of the work.
The Program Chair will arrange for an Initial Presentation
within 2 weeks of receipt of the Thesis Proposal. The
Initial Presentation will normally be of 30 minutes duration
(20 minutes for student presentation and 10 minutes for
questions).
In his/her Thesis Proposal and during the Initial
Presentation, the student is required to:
1. demonstrate a clear understanding of the research
problem
2. constructively defend the general strategy that he/she
intends to pursue in dealing with the research problem
3. write clearly, accurately, cogently, and in a style
appropriate to purpose
4. construct coherent arguments and articulate ideas
clearly
5. produce a plan to execute the entire work
7.2.2.6 Thesis Progress Report and Interim PresentationNormally the student will submit a Thesis Progress Report
10 weeks after the first registration of the thesis for
full-time students (or 14 weeks for part-time students).
The Thesis Progress Report should clearly specify the
following:
• A summary of the main research problem, its
importance, and the general strategy that the student
is pursuing in dealing with the problem.
• A critical review of the principal literature relevant to
the thesis topic placing the student’s contribution in
context, accompanied by a full bibliography of relevant
sources.
• An outline of work that the student has already carried
out in the area and a discussion of results.
• A review of the status of each task and sub-task of the
work and, if applicable, a revised work-plan.
• A provisional table of contents for the thesis.
The Program Chair will arrange for an Interim Presentation
within 2 weeks of receipt of the Thesis Progress Report.
The Interim Presentation will normally be of 30 minutes
duration (20 minutes for student presentation and 10
minutes for questions).
In his/her Thesis Progress Report and during the Interim
Presentation, the student is required to:
1. show awareness of pertinent background literature
and current efforts in the thesis area of interest
2. demonstrate a clear understanding of the research
problem
3. achieve some initial progress towards solving the
research problem 4). constructively defend his/her
results
4. write clearly, accurately, cogently, and in a style
appropriate to purpose
5. construct coherent arguments and articulate ideas
clearly
6. demonstrate that he/she is following a plan to execute
the entire work
7.2.2.7 Thesis and Final PresentationNormally the student will submit his/her Thesis for
examination 15 weeks after the first registration of the
Thesis for full-time students (or 21 weeks for part-time
students). The student must obtain the approval of his/her
supervisor and the Program Chair before this submission.
The Final Presentation will normally be of 1 hour duration
split into 2 parts of 30 minutes each. The first part will
be public (20 minutes for student presentation and 10
minutes for questions). The second part will be private
and will be attended by the Supervisor and Second Grader
only. This part will be used to interview the student and
ask more detailed questions, and, if applicable, examine a
demonstration of the completed work. This part will also
be used to convey to the student any changes that he/she
is required to perform before final submission of thesis.
In his/her Thesis and during the Final Presentation, the
student is required to:
1. demonstrate a high level of understanding and
specialization in the thesis area
2. show evidence that he/she is able to conduct
independent investigation with rigor and discrimination
3. demonstrate the ability to acquire and collate
information through the effective use of appropriate
sources and equipment
4. appreciate the relationship of the area of his/her thesis
to a wider field of knowledge
5. demonstrate a critical appreciation of the literature in
his/her thesis area
6. demonstrate an ability to appraise critically his/
her contribution in the context of his/her overall
investigation
7. constructively defend his/her thesis outcomes
8. write clearly, accurately, cogently, and in a style
appropriate to purpose
9. construct coherent arguments and articulate ideas
clearly
7.2.2.8 Procedures for Resolving ProblemsIf the grade awarded by the Supervisor and the Second
Grader differ by less than 10 grades and the Supervisor
is satisfied then under normal circumstances the average
of the two grades will be taken by the Program Chair
although a slight deviation one way or the other can be
accommodated at the request of the Supervisor or Second
Grader. If the Supervisor has strong opinion about the
thesis grade, he/she may request a Third Grader.
If the grade awarded by the Supervisor and the Second
Grader differ by 10 or more grades, then the Program Chair
will call a meeting, which he/she chairs. The Supervisor
and Second Grader will discuss the student’s work to see if
the matter can be resolved either by
• agreeing that an average of the two grades is a fair
and acceptable compromise, or by
• agreeing that one or both of the sets of grades be
adjusted to reflect any ensuing clarification.
If no agreement is achieved, then a Third Grader will be
assigned by the Program Chair. The Third Grader repeats
the assessment procedure, except that he/she awards
grades only for the parts that can be assessed from the
Thesis.
Once the Third Grader has completed the assessment,
the Program Chair calls a meeting, which he/she chairs.
The Supervisor, the Second Grader, and the Third Grader
discuss the student’s work in an attempt to resolve the
issue (the discussion applies only to the sections graded
by the Third Grader, the grades for other sections are
averaged). If no compromise can be arrived at then the
thesis will be put to the Program External Examiner as
described below.
7.2.2.9 Thesis Pass Grade and Re-Submission Procedures
The Thesis pass grade is C.
If a student fails the Thesis then he/she will be asked to
perform major revisions/ corrections and resubmit his/her
Thesis for re-examination.
The required major revisions/corrections should be
agreed by the Supervisor and Second Grader and provided
to the student in writing through the Program Chair.
The student must implement the required major revisions/
corrections and resubmit the Thesis for re-examination no
later than 15 weeks from the date of the final presentation.
To pass the Thesis after re-submission, the student must
obtain at least a grade of C after including the original
grades for the components that have not been re-
submitted. The Thesis grade after re-submission will be
capped at B.
A student is allowed to re-submit the Thesis only once.
7.2.3 Completion Requirements7.2.3.1 Normal RequirementsIn order to be awarded an M.Sc. by Courses and Thesis,
the student must:
• Pass all the program components (taught courses and
thesis).
• Achieve an overall cumulative grade point average of
at least 3.0 out of 4.0.
• Complete all graduation requirements within 2 years of
the first registration for full- time students, and 3 years
of the first registration for part-time students, or by the
end of any extension period granted by the University.
7.2.3.2 Distinction RequirementsIn order to be awarded an M.Sc. by Courses and Thesis
with Distinction, the student, in addition to the normal
completion requirements, must:
• Pass all program components (taught courses and
thesis) from the first attempt (i.e. without repeats or
re-submissions).
• Achieve an overall cumulative grade point average of
at least 3.7 out of 4.0.
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7.3 PHD7.3.1 Course Assessment7.3.1.1 Assessment ProcedureCourses are normally assessed through a combination
of coursework, including assignments and projects, and
examinations.
7.3.1.2 Progression RulesThe same progression rules detailed in section 7.2.1.2
apply to this component of the program.
7.3.2 Research Proposal Examination7.3.2.1 Purpose and ContentsHaving satisfied the taught courses requirements of
the program, the student is then required to prepare
a Research Proposal and pass a Research Proposal
Examination before being allowed to progress further on
the program.
The purpose of preparing the Research Proposal is to
focus the student’s attention on a careful description of
the proposed research problem and its background and
context.
The Research Proposal should clearly specify the following:
• The main problem that the student intends to work on
and why it is important.
• The kind of result which the student hopes to achieve,
and why it would be original and of significant value in
the area of research.
• A critical review of the principal literature relevant to
the research topic placing the student’s contribution in
context, accompanied by a full bibliography of relevant
sources.
• An outline of work that the student has already carried
out in the area and how it supports the proposed
research.
• The general strategy that the student intends to
pursue in dealing with the research problem, together
with a work-plan for the stages of research.
• A provisional table of contents for the thesis.
7.3.2.2 Submission PeriodThe student is expected to make reasonable and
consistent progress before submitting the Research
Proposal. This will normally involve completing a critical
literature review and performing some preliminary
research. Typically, the student will submit the Research
Proposal 12 months after his/her first registration for full-
time students, or 24 months after his/her first registration
for part-time students.
The student must submit the Research Proposal no later
than 14 months after his/her first registration for full-
time students, or no later than 28 months after his/her
registration for part-time students.
7.3.2.3 Purpose of Research Proposal ExaminationThe purpose of the Research Proposal Examination is:
1. To evaluate the proposed research problem to ensure
that, if completed as posed, it constitutes an original
contribution to knowledge.
2. To ensure that the relevant expertise and facilities are
available within the University to support the proposed
research.
3. To determine whether the student is adequately
prepared to undertake the proposed research and
communicate the results.
4. To provide the student with research direction and
feedback.
7.3.2.4 Required StandardsIn his/her Research Proposal and during the Research
Proposal Examination, the student is required to:
1. show awareness of pertinent background literature
and current efforts in the research area of interest
2. demonstrate a clear understanding of the research
problem
3. achieve some initial progress towards solving the
research problem
4. constructively defend his/her results
5. write clearly, accurately, cogently, and in a style
appropriate to purpose
6. construct coherent arguments and articulate ideas
clearly
7. produce a plan to execute the entire thesis research
7.3.2.5 Examination and Assessment ProceduresThe following regulations regarding the examination of the
research proposal will apply:
1. Candidates will be assessed on the basis of a
submitted written Research Proposal and an oral
Research Proposal Examination conducted by
examiners approved by the President.
2. Each candidate will be examined by two examiners: a
Main Examiner and a Co- Examiner.
3. Examiners will be appointed by the President, taking
into account nominations provided by the supervisor,
in consultation with the relevant Program Chair, and
approved by the Provost and Associate Provost for
Graduate Studies and Research. The Main Examiner
should not be from the department in which the
student is registered. The Main Examiner may be
selected from outside the University, e.g. Graduate
Studies and Research Advisory Panel member. The
Co- Examiner is normally from the department in
which the student is registered. In all cases, however,
the Main Examiner and Co-Examiner should not be the
supervisor.
4. The result of the examination will be communicated
by the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and
Research through the Provost to the President
for approval. However, termination of registration
decisions are subject to the approval of the Board of
Trustees.
5. All candidates shall be informed in writing by the
Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and Research
of their official position following the approval of the
University President/Board of Trustees.
6. If minor corrections and revisions to the Research
Proposal are requested by the examiners, then the
period for implementing such corrections and revisions
shall be normally not more than 1 month.
7. Re-submission of an unsuccessful candidate may only
take place with the approval of the President on the
recommendation of the examiners concerned. In such
cases, the period for major revision of the Research
Proposal and/or presentation for re-exaxmination shall
be normally not more than 6 months.
8. Regulations governing the format of the Research
Proposal to be submitted for the Research Proposal
Examination are detailed in the respective program
manual of rules, regulations, and standards. All
proposals submitted must conform strictly with these
regulations and requirements.
7.3.3 Assessment of Progress7.3.3.1 Assignment of Supervisory BoardAfter passing the Research Proposal Examination, each
student will be assigned a Supervisory Board that has
the responsibility for managing student progress during
the Research Component of the program. The purpose
of the Supervisory Board is to provide the student with a
wider range of advice on his/her research and to provide
an opportunity to reflect on the student’s progress. The
Supervisory Board will be comprised of:
• an independent chair selected from outside the
department in which the student is registered. The
chair should have previous successful experience in
graduate research supervision.
• an independent member selected from the same
department in which the student is registered
• the supervisor(s), and
• if available, an independent member selected from the
Graduate Studies and Research Advisory Panel
7.3.3.2 Supervisory Board MeetingsAs already mentioned, the purpose of the Supervisory
Board is to provide the student with a wider range of
advice on his/her research and to provide an opportunity to
reflect on the student’s progress. This is achieved through
Supervisory Board Meetings.
Supervisory Board meetings are scheduled by the
Chairman of the Board within three weeks of receiving
the Progress Report of the student and the accompanying
written comments from the supervisor. It is the
responsibility of the Chairman of the Board to inform the
student and all other members of the Board of the date,
time and venue of the meeting.
At the start of the meeting, the student will be asked
to give a 30-minutes presentation on his/her progress
report. This will be followed by a session of questions and
answers. The student will then be asked to leave the room
and the meeting will continue to discuss the progress of
the student.
At the end of the meeting, the Chair should complete a
meeting report. A copy of the report should be given to the
student. The report should be submitted, within one week
of the meeting, through the relevant Program Chair to the
Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and Research for
consideration and the Graduate Studies Committee.
7.3.3.3 Continued RegistrationSee section 7.1.1.2.
7.3.3.4 Transfer to Writing-Up StatusSee section 7.1.1.3
7.3.3.5 ExtensionsSee section 7.1.1.4.
7.3.3.6 Termination of RegistrationSee section 7.1.1.5
7.3.4 Thesis Examination7.3.4.1 Examination and Assessment ProceduresThe following regulations regarding the examination of a
Ph.D. thesis will apply:
1. Candidates for the degree of Ph.D. will be assessed
on the basis of a written thesis and an oral viva voce
examination conducted by examiners approved by the
President.
2. Each candidate for the degree of Ph.D. will be
examined by at least one internal examiner and at
least one external examiner.
3. Internal and external examiners will be appointed
by the President, taking into account nominations
provided by the supervisor, in consultation with the
relevant Program Chair, and approved by the Provost
and Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and
Research. The internal and external examiners should
not be the supervisor.
4. The result of the examination will be communicated
by the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and
Research through the Provost to the President for
subsequent consideration by the Board of Trustees.
5. All candidates for the degree of Ph.D. shall be
informed in writing by the Associate Provost for
Graduate Studies and Research of their official position
following the meeting of the Board of Trustees.
6. If minor corrections and revisions to the thesis are
requested by the examiners, then the period for
implementing such corrections and revisions shall be
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KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
38 39
normally not more than 2 months.
7. Re-submission of an unsuccessful candidate may only
take place with the approval of the Board of Trustees
on the recommendation of the examiners concerned.
In such cases, the period for major revision of the
thesis and/or presentation for re- examination shall be
normally not more than one year.
8. Regulations governing the format of the thesis to be
submitted for the award of Ph.D. are detailed in the
respective program manual of rules, regulations, and
standards. All theses submitted must conform strictly
with these regulations and requirements.
9. The Candidate must submit three copies of the final
version of the thesis within 30 days of his/her name
appearing on a pass list.
7.3.4.2 Required StandardsFor the award of the degree of Ph.D., a level of
achievement similar to that sought by other universities
internationally is expected. In his/her thesis and during the
viva voce examination, a candidate for the degree of Ph.D.
is required to:
1. demonstrate a high level of understanding and
specialization in his/her field of study
2. show evidence that he/she is able to conduct
independent investigation with rigor and discrimination
3. demonstrate the ability to acquire and collate
information through the effective use of appropriate
sources and equipment
4. appreciate the relationship of the area of his/her
research to a wider field of knowledge
5. demonstrate a critical appreciation of the literature in
his/her area of research
6. demonstrate an ability to recognize and validate
research problems
7. demonstrate an understanding of relevant research
methodologies and techniques and their appropriate
application to his/her research
8. make a significant and original contribution to the body
of knowledge in his/her field of study
9. demonstrate an ability to appraise critically his/
her contribution in the context of his/her overall
investigation
10. constructively defend his/her research outcomes
11. write clearly, accurately, cogently, and in a style
appropriate to purpose
12. construct coherent arguments and articulate ideas
clearly
13. show awareness of relevant research issues including
environmental, political, economical, social, copyright,
ethical, health and safety, exploitation of results, and
intellectual property rights.
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40 41
Academic Policies& Regulations
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42 43
8.1 ACADEMIC OFFENCES
8.1.1 Academic Integrity CodeThe academic community, like all communities, functions
best when all its members treat one another with honesty,
fairness, respect, and trust. The University expects high
standards of scholarship and integrity from all members of
its community. To accomplish its mission of providing an
optimal educational environment and developing leaders
of society, the University promotes the assumption of
personal responsibility and integrity and prohibits all forms
of academic dishonesty. The purpose of education is to
develop a student’s ability to think logically and to express
himself/herself accurately.
Members of the University community are expected
to carry out their work with intellectual honesty and
professional integrity, adhering to the highest standards of
ethical behavior consistent with the codes of conduct set
down by relevant professional societies. Unethical behavior
is not worthy of members of the University community and
will be dealt with severely.
Academic dishonesty in any form undermines the very
foundations of higher education and will not be tolerated
by the University. The most common form of academic
dishonesty is plagiarism. Other forms of academic
dishonesty are described in what follows.
8.1.2 PlagiarismPlagiarism is the act of stealing the ideas and/or the
expression of another person and representing them as
one’s own. It is a form of cheating and a kind of academic
misconduct that should result in some form of academic
penalty. It is important that one understands what it
consists of, so that he/she does not jeopardize his/her
career. In particular, a student has come to the University
to learn, and this means acquiring ideas and exchanging
opinions with others. But no idea is ever genuinely learned
by copying it down from someone else’s work.
A person commits plagiarism if he/she submits work that is
not truly the product of his/ her own mind and skills.
8.1.2.1 Forms of Plagiarism1. A word-by-word copying of someone else’s work, in
whole or in part, without acknowledgment, whether
that work be a magazine article, a portion of a book,
a newspaper piece, another person’s paper, or any
other composition not one’s own. Any such use of
another’s work must be acknowledged by:
a. Enclosing all such copied portions in quotation
grades.
b. Providing a complete reference to the original
source either in the body of one’s work or in a
note. As a general rule, one should make very
little use of quoted matter in papers, project
reports and assignments.
3. An unacknowledged paraphrasing of the structure
and language of another person’s work. Changing
a few words of another’s composition, omitting a
few sentences, or changing their order does not
constitute original composition and therefore can
be given no credit. If such borrowing or paraphrasing
is ever necessary, the source must be indicated by
appropriate reference.
4. Writing a work based solely on the ideas of another
person. Even though the language is not the same,
if the thinking is clearly not one’s own, then the
person has committed plagiarism. If, for example, in
writing a work a person reproduces the structure and
progression of ideas in an essay one has read, or a
speech one has heard, the person, in this case, is not
engaging his/her own mind and experience enough to
claim credit for writing his/her own composition.
5. In summary plagiarism includes, but is not limited to:
a. Using published work without referencing (the
most common).
b. Copying coursework.
c. Collaborating with any other person when the
work is supposed to be individual.
d. Taking another person’s computer file/program.
e. Submitting another person’s work as one’s own.
f. The use of unacknowledged material published on
the web.
g. Purchase of model assignments from whatever
source.
h. Copying another person’s results.
8.1.2.2 Avoiding Plagiarism1. To avoid plagiarism, one must give credit whenever
he/she uses:
a. Another person’s idea, opinion, or theory;
b. Any facts, statistics, graphs, drawings, any pieces
of information that are not common knowledge;
c. Quotations of another person’s actual spoken or
written words; or
d. Paraphrase of another person’s spoken or written
words.
2. Direct quotations should be put in “inverted commas”,
and referenced. Paraphrased or edited versions should
be acknowledged and referenced.
8.1.3 Other forms of Academic Dishonesty8.1.3.1 CheatingCheating is defined as using, or attempting to use, in any
academic exercise materials, information, study aids, or
electronic data that the person knows or should know is
unauthorized.
8.1.3.2 Fabrication of ResultsThis means the invention of results that have not been
achieved by any scientific processes, either through logical
argument or empirical investigation.
8.1.3.3 Falsification of ResultsThis means the alteration, modification, or
misrepresentation of results (including selective inclusion
or exclusion of results).
8.1.3.4 RecyclingRecycling is the submission of one’s previous work
to count as new work. For example, submission of a
student’s work that has previously counted in another
unit of study is not allowed, unless explicitly authorized
by the faculty members of both study units. In such case,
students must reference their previous work.
8.1.3.5 CollusionCollusion includes cooperation of persons in securing
confidential information/material (tests, examinations,
etc.); bribery to change examination grades and/or grade
point average(s); cooperative efforts to gain access to
examinations or answers to examinations for distribution;
seeking, obtaining, possessing, or giving to another person
an examination or portions of an examination (not yet
given), without permission of the instructor.
8.1.3.6 SabotageDestruction of or deliberate inhibition of progress of
another person’s work is considered academically
dishonest. This includes the destruction or hiding of
shared resources such as library materials and computer
software and hardware to tampering with another person’s
laboratory experiments.
8.1.4 Procedure and Penalties for Academic Offences
8.1.4.1 Investigation and Penalties by the Instructor1. When an instructor suspects that a student has
violated the University’s Academic Integrity Code,
he or she shall collect whatever evidence may be
available and relevant and shall immediately address
the matter with the student via an interview. During
the interview, the instructor has the right to ask
the student to provide additional evidence (such as
sources used) to establish the facts of the case.
2. If, after the interview, the instructor believes that the
charges are unfounded or the evidence is not sound,
he/she shall dismiss the case.
3. If, however, at the conclusion of the interview, the
instructor discovers that the student did act in violation
of the Academic Integrity Code, the instructor shall
consult with the relevant Department/Program Chair
and the Dean / Associate Provost for Graduate Studies
and Research (for graduate students) to determine
whether the student has had a previous offense.
4. In the event the student has had a previous offense,
the instructor shall forward the case directly through
the relevant Department/Program Chair to the
Dean / Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and
Research (for graduate students). The instructor shall
accompany the case with a brief report detailing the
offense committed and the interview with the student.
5. If the case represents a student’s first offense and
the student admits guilt during the interview, the
instructor may take one of the following actions:
a. Counsel the student and issue him/her a formal
written warning;
b. Require the student to resubmit the work or
undertake another form of assessment in lieu of
the work in question, with a capped pass grade;
c. Give a grade of zero for the work (in cases
involving plagiarism, the issuance of a grade of
zero is normally mandatory);
d. Refer the case immediately through the relevant
Department/Program Chair to the Dean /
Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and
Research (for graduate students), if the offense is
serious and warrants a greater sanction.
e. The instructor shall then write a brief report
detailing the offense committed, the interview
with the student, and the penalty imposed. This
report shall be provided to the student within five
(5) business days of the interview and submitted,
through the relevant Department/Program Chair,
to the Dean / Associate Provost for Graduate
Studies and Research (for graduate students) for
inclusion in the student’s file.
6. If the student wants to initiate an appeal, then he/she
must submit a written request through the relevant
Department/Program Chair, to the Dean / Associate
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KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
44 45
Provost for Graduate Studies and Research (for
graduate students) within five (5) business days of
receiving the notification of the instructor’s sanction.
8.1.4.2 Investigation and Penalties by the Hearing Committee1. The offence is referred to a Hearing Committee in the
following cases:
a. If the case represents a student’s first offense and
the student either did not admit guilt or wishes to
appeal the sanction imposed by the instructor;
b. If the case represents a student’s first offense
and the student admitted guilt but the instructor
decided that the offence is serious and warrants a
greater sanction than the list of penalties that he/
she has the authority to impose;
c. If the student has had a previous offence.
2. The Hearing Committee is an ad-hoc University
committee appointed by the Provost (or designee)
and is comprised of senior faculty and staff members
who are independent of the student and the case.The
Provost (or designee) shall designate a Chair for the
hearing.
3. The committee shall meet as directed by the chair to
review all statements and supporting materials and
to determine whether an act of academic dishonesty
occurred. The committee may also request additional
information and/or interview individuals who may have
information relevant to the incident, including the
instructor(s) who made the referral and the student
involved.
4. The hearing should be conducted in such a manner as
to do substantial justice and not be restricted unduly
by rules of procedure. The focus of inquiry shall be the
validity or invalidity of the accusations against those
accused of violating the Academic Integrity Code.
5. The meeting shall be private, in order to protect the
confidentiality of the proceeding.
6. The accused student may challenge any member
of the committee on grounds of prejudice. The
committee shall deliberate in private and determine,
by majority vote (excluding the member being
challenged), whether the member should be replaced
by an alternate committee member who will be
designated by the Chair.
7. The student shall have the right to be assisted by
an adviser of the student’s choice, who must be a
full-time staff member or a full-time faculty member.
Attorneys are not permitted to attend the hearing. The
adviser, upon request of the student may:
a. Advise the student in the preparation of the
student’s case;
b. Accompany the student to the hearing;
c. Assist the student in questioning witnesses.
d. Advise the student in the preparation of an appeal;
8. At the onset of the hearing, the Chair confirms that the
referred student(s) understands his/her rights.
9. If the student fails, without reasonable excuse, to
attend the hearing, the committee may proceed with
the hearing in the student’s absence or, at the Chair’s
discretion, postpone the start of the hearing.
10. The Instructor shall, at the outset of the hearing, and
in the presence of the student, apprise the committee
of the facts and allegations of the case and the names
of the witnesses who are to be presented to establish
said factors and allegations. The student may make a
summary statement in response.
11. All witnesses shall be heard by the committee in
the presence of the student. The student and the
student’s advisor may put questions to the witnesses,
and shall have access to any documents considered by
the committee as evidence in the case.
12. The student shall be afforded an opportunity to speak
on his/her own behalf and to present witnesses.
Should the student decide to speak, he/she will
be subject to questions from the committee. The
committee may consult legal assessors for advice
regarding any evidentiary or procedural issue that
arises during the hearing.
13. Following the hearing, the Committee will make a
determination based on the facts/ circumstances of
the case. Depending upon the Committee’s findings, it
may take one of the following actions:
a. Dismiss the case; or
b. Impose a penalty based on “case history” and
clear, convincing, and reliable evidence in support
of the charge. This may include, but is not limited
to, the following:
i. Counseling the student and issuing him/her a
formal written warning;
ii. Requiring the student to resubmit the work
or to undertake another form of assessment
in lieu of the work in question, with a capped
pass grade;
iii. Giving a grade of zero for the work (in cases
involving plagiarism, the issuance of a grade
of zero is normally mandatory);
iv. Failing the student in the relevant course;
v. Failing the student in all courses for the
semester during which the academic
misconduct has occurred;
vi. Suspending the student from the University
for a given period of time. Suspension shall
entail the withdrawal of such University
privileges as are specified by the party or the
hearing body imposing the suspension. If no
particular privileges are specified, suspension
shall entail the withdrawal of all University
privileges, including the right to enter and
be upon University property, in which case
ACADEMIC POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
the student, during suspension, may only
come upon University property for a specified
purpose, previously authorized in writing by
the Chair of the Committee that imposed the
disciplinary action. Violation of the terms of
the suspension shall result in the case being
referred by the University Registrar to the
Provost for further action if required.
vii. Dismissing the student from the University.
Dismissal from the University for academic
misconduct reasons entails the termination
of all the student’s rights and privileges as a
student at the University. No application for
re- admission by a dismissed student will be
entertained by the University for a minimum
of two years from the dismissal. Dismissal
will be recorded on the academic transcript of
the student.
viii. Expelling the student from the University.
Expulsion from the University entails the
termination of all the student’s rights and
privileges as a student at the University. The
University will not entertain any application
from an expelled student for re-admission.
Expulsion will be recorded on the academic
transcript of the student
14. In cases of penalties resulting in immediate
suspension, dismissal or expulsion, the student
shall physically leave University-owned or controlled
property within twenty-four (24) hours after being
informed of the sanction by the committee. The
student may return to University-owned or controlled
property during the terms of the suspension, dismissal
or expulsion for the express purpose of attending the
appeal hearing (if applicable) or for completing total
separation requirements. Suspended students shall
also be permitted to take examination(s) or submit
paper(s) during the suspension, but the University may
make special arrangements as to time and place for
the completion of such work.
15. The chair of the committee will notify the student
of the committee’s decision in writing within five (5)
business days. The student will also be informed in
writing of the right to file a final written appeal to the
Provost within five (5) business days of receipt of
the Committee decision. . The Committee shall write
a brief report detailing the case and its decision. . A
copy of the report shall be submitted to the Dean /
Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and Research
(for graduate students) for inclusion in the student’s
file.
16. In the absence of an appeal, the decision of the
committee shall be implemented immediately. In the
event of an appeal, implementation of the committee
decision will be suspended until a decision on the
appeal is rendered by the Provost. The Provost’s
decision is final.
17. An annual report of the disciplinary activities and
actions shall be prepared by the University Registrar
and presented to the Provost and the President
annually. However, in any description, no mention
shall be made of the names of the parties or of any
information which might lead to their identification.
8.2 STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
Academic grievances are complaints brought by students
regarding the University’s provision of education and
academic services affecting their role as students.
Academic grievances must be based on a claimed violation
of a University rule, policy, or established practice. This
policy does not limit the University’s right to change the
rules, policies, or practices.
Step 1: Within five (5) business days of the student’s
knowledge of the incident giving rise to the grievance,
the student shall initiate a discussion with the instructor
involved to attempt a resolution of the dispute.
Step 2: If the discussion does not produce a satisfactory
resolution of the dispute, within five (5) business days the
student shall file a written grievance with the Department/
Program Chair, setting forth the reasons for the grievance
and the requested remedy.
Step 3: Within five (5) business days of submitting the
written grievance with the Department/Program Chair,
the student shall have a meeting with the Department/
Program Chair. At this meeting, the student will orally
present his/her grievance to the Chair, providing any
additional documentation to the Chair that bears on the
grievance.
Step 4: If the discussion does not produce a satisfactory
resolution of the dispute, the Chair shall reduce his/her
findings and recommendations to writing and within five
(5) business days, turn all materials over to the appropriate
Dean / Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and
Research (for graduate students) to enable his/her prompt
evaluation of the grievance.
Step 5: Within five (5) business days of the receipt of
all grievance materials, the appropriate Dean / Associate
Provost for Graduate Studies and Research (for graduate
students), after his/her evaluation of the grievance and any
accompanying documentation including the Chair’s findings
and recommendation, shall meet with the student and
attempt a resolution of the dispute.
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Step 6: If the discussion does not produce a resolution of
the dispute, the appropriate Dean / Associate Provost for
Graduate Studies and Research (for graduate students)
shall reduce his/her findings and recommendations to
writing and then, within five (5) business days, turn all the
grievance materials over to the Provost.
Step 7: Within five (5) business days of the receipt of all
grievance materials, the Provost, after his/her evaluation
of the grievance and any accompanying documentation
including the Chair and Dean’s / Associate Provost’s
findings and recommendation, shall render a decision in
writing affirming or denying the grievance. The decision of
the Provost is final.
8.3 ACADEMIC SUPPORT SERVICES
8.3.1 Academic AdvisingAcademic advising is integral to effective learning and
academic progress throughout the student’s graduate
program. Khalifa University is composed of colleges and
departments/programs that serve as “academic homes”
for each student. The student is assigned to one of
the colleges/departments/programs based on his/her
intended major/program. A full-time faculty member from
the assigned college/department/ program acts as the
academic advisor and works with the student from the
beginning of his/her academic career.
Academic advisors provide information about selecting
courses and areas of specialization, and are knowledgeable
about regulations and requirements. They also provide
resources, guidance, and support to enable students to
explore, define, and realize their aspirations throughout
their academic careers. Well-advised students acquire the
knowledge needed to create and fulfill educational plans,
and meet their goals for the future in a timely manner.
8.3.1.1 Academic Advising Guiding PrinciplesBoth students and advisors have advising responsibilities.
Advising is guided by the following principles:
Effective academic advising can play an integral role in
student development.
Mutual respect and shared responsibility should govern the
personal interactions between advisors and students.
Students and advisors must prepare for, actively participate
in, and take appropriate action following advising sessions.
Advising information provided to students must be accurate,
accessible, and timely.
Academic advising should encourage students to explore
many possibilities and broaden their educational experience.
Academic advising should encourage a positive attitude
toward lifelong learning.
Academic advising should use all available resources and
means to provide advising tailored to the individual needs
of students.
Academic advisors should keep records of the advising
sessions held with a student.
8.3.1.2 Guidelines for Graduating in Expected TimeKhalifa University has a strong commitment to ensuring
that students graduate with a degree in the expected time.
Students are encouraged to follow these guidelines to earn
their degrees in the minimum time required.
Consulting an advisor should be the first priority.
Students should confirm with the advisor that their
academic preparation is appropriate for the courses they
plan to undertake. They also should be certain they
understand the requirements of their intended major/
program as well as the options it will provide for future
studies and employment.
Students should be aware of the number of credits the
degree program requires, and should make sure they fulfill
a minimum number of credits each year. For example, for
graduate programs, a full-time student should make sure
that he/she fulfills at least one quarter of the total program
credits each semester.
Students should make the most of course schedules and
the plan of study for their degree program. They should
plan to take required courses as soon as possible (as not all
courses are offered every semester) and be flexible about
course times. If a required course is not available, advisors
can help determine an alternative.
Students should explore the various research areas
available in their program in order to make an early decision
on the thesis topic they would like to pursue. Students
should consult with faculty who propose the research
projects to understand what needs to be achieved and
required deliverables. Students can also consult with the
program chair regarding the thesis topic and the timeline of
the research project deliverables.
8.3.1.3 Academic Advising and RegistrationIn order to register each semester, students are required
to meet with their faculty academic advisor to discuss
their academic progress and course selection, and obtain
the faculty advisor’s signature on their registration form.
This process ensures that the student is on course to
meet the graduation requirements of his or her particular
degree program.
ACADEMIC POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
8.3.1.4 Plan of StudyThe plan of study for a program outlines the minimum
academic requirements that must be completed to be eligible
to graduate. Plans of study change over time, consequently
students are required to follow the requirements of the
approved plan of study that were in effect at the time of their
admission to the academic program.
Students may petition the Department/Program Chair for
approval of changes to the prescribed plan of study. Small
changes may be approved by the Department/Program Chair.
Significant changes require approval of the Department/
Program Chair and applicable University standing
committee(s). Please refer to the University’s Variation to
Academic Program policy for additional information.
8.3.1.5 Change of Academic AdvisorStudents may request a change of an assigned academic
advisor when they are unable to resolve communication
problems with their current advisor. Students must make
an effort to resolve any issues before requesting a change.
A request to change should be made to the student’s
Program Chair.
8.3.2 Faculty Office HoursFaculty Office Hours are allocated for students’
consultation/advising. Faculty will show their office hours
on their office doors. Students are encouraged to make
use of these times to gain further information on tutoring
on the courses being delivered by the particular member
of staff.
8.4 TAUGHT COURSES POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
8.4.1 Evaluation and Examinations8.4.1.1 Evaluation
A university degree certifies that its holder has attained
a measurable level of achievement as established by a
recognized system of evaluation. Thus, the performance
of each student in each course must be evaluated by the
instructor or instructors responsible for the course. Final
grades are determined by students’ performance in one or
more of the following:
– Assigned work, term papers, projects, etc.;
– Class participation;
– Progress tests;
– Laboratory tests and/or laboratory work;
– Semester and/or final examinations;
– Level of written expression.
The weight accorded to the various elements is at the
discretion of the academic department responsible for
the course. At the beginning of a course, the instructor
will provide students with the detailed syllabus in writing.
The scheme cannot be altered without appropriate notice
in writing. To assist students in preparing for their final
exams, no tests or significant assessments should be
administered during the final week of classes.
Normally, an instructor will submit final grades no later
than three days after the scheduled final examination in a
course or, where there is no final examination, seven days
after the last scheduled class in a course.
8.4.1.2 ExaminationsThe University academic calendar lists the first day of
each official examination period. University policies and
regulations governing the administration of examinations
are available from the Registration Office.
A final examination or other form of final assessment shall
be given in every course. Exceptions may be made only in
accordance with the approved course syllabus.
All final examinations shall be held on the date and at
the time listed in the official final examination schedule
issued by the Registration Office. Approved alternative
assessments shall be due on the date and time listed in
the final examination schedule for the course involved.
In extraordinary situations, a student may apply for an
excused absence from a semester or final examination if
the absence is due to serious illness or other compelling
circumstances beyond the student’s control. These criteria
shall be strictly applied. Students requesting an excused
absence must apply in writing to the Registration Office
and provide documentary support for their assertion that
the absence resulted from one of these causes.
Students who are excused from a final examination will be
required to sit for a make-up examination administered at a
time and place set by the Registration Office. The make-up
exam shall cover only the material for which the student
was originally responsible and be at a comparable level of
difficulty with the original examination. A make-up exam
shall be scheduled as quickly as possible but shall not
interfere with the student’s other classes or examinations.
Students who are excused from a semester examination
shall not be re-examined. Instead, their final examination
mark(s) will be attributed to the mid-term exam.
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48 49
8.4.1.3 Course WorkCoursework is an essential component of all courses at all
levels of study. The coursework normally takes the form of
a combination of assignments/projects and quizzes. When
the coursework is issued, the student will be given a clear
deadline for when to submit it to the concerned instructor.
Penalties for late submission or missing any coursework
are at the discretion of the individual instructor and must be
clearly communicated to the students at the beginning of
the semester. It is recommended that the minimum penalty
imposed is a deduction of 10% from the student’s grade
for each working day late. However, if late submission is
unavoidable for any justifiable reason (for example health
or personal problems) then the student should inform the
concerned instructor and bring any documentary evidence
(for example medical note). It is up to the instructor to
accept or reject any excuse.
Students should receive grades and comments on their
work as soon as appropriate. In some cases instructors
may keep the students’ work but the students should be
shown the grading of their work and they also have the
right to re-examine their work at a later date.
8.4.1.4 Final Grade Changes and AppealsFinal course grades, officially reported by the instructor
at the end of an academic semester, are recorded by the
Registration Office. Official recorded grades can only be
changed with the approval of the Department Chair and
the Dean. A request to change a grade may be initiated,
in writing, by the student or the student’s instructor. The
student can only initiate a grade appeal no later than two
weeks from the official release of the grades as specified
by the Registration Office.
8.4.1.5 Records and TranscriptsA permanent academic record for each student enrolled
in the University is maintained in the Registration Office.
The written consent of the student is officially required to
disclose his/her academic record. Exceptions are made
for parents, sponsors, and authorized Khalifa University
officials and in compliance with a judicial order.
Students may obtain official transcripts of their academic
records from the Registration Office. A transcript will only be
released with a signed request from the student concerned.
8.4.1.6 Language of Instruction and Examination
English is the official language of Khalifa University. All
courses at Khalifa University are taught and examined in
English with the exception of non-English content courses
such as Arabic language.
8.4.2 Classroom Policies8.4.2.1 Admission to ClassInstructors are required to admit to class only those students
with appropriate documentation as directed by the Registrar.
8.4.2.2 Lateness and Attendance GuidelinesKhalifa University is committed to providing high quality
education to its students. Attendance at classes is
essential to their obtaining that education, and for taking
advantage of the resources that the University provides for
the intellectual growth and development of its students.
For these reasons, students at Khalifa University are
required to punctually attend all scheduled lectures, labs,
recitation or tutorial sessions, etc., in each course for which
they are registered, and are responsible for completing
the work from all class sessions. Absences from class
may be excused for such reasons as personal illness,
family emergency, religious holidays, or participating as an
authorized University representative in an approved event.
Khalifa University guidelines on lateness and attendance
are outlined below. The complete policy may be found in
the student handbook.
– Attendance is mandatory for every session of every
course in which a student is registered.
– Instructors are not obliged to give substitute
assignments or examinations to students who
miss classes.
– If a graduate student misses 50% of the scheduled
sessions in a course for any reason, the University
may initiate withdrawal of the student from the
course. If approved by the Dean of the student’s
college, the withdrawal is implemented. A grade
of W will be entered on the student’s record if the
withdrawal is initiated before the end of the tenth
week of class. If the withdrawal is initiated after the
tenth week of classes, a grade of WF will be entered
on the student’s record and will be calculated in the
GPA. Instructors are to keep attendance records and to
draw students’ attention to attendance requirements
noted in each course syllabus.
8.4.2.3 Conflict of InterestWhere a member of the faculty, academic staff, or teaching
or laboratory assistant and a student are in a close personal
relationship such that there is or may be perceived to
be a conflict of interest or possible favoritism, then the
faculty, academic staff, or teaching or laboratory assistant
shall decline or terminate a supervisory or evaluative role
with respect to that student, and where necessary, make
appropriate alternative arrangements for the supervision
and evaluation of the student’s work.
ACADEMIC POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
For the purposes of this policy, a close personal
relationship shall include spouses, parent and child,
siblings, and consensual relationships.
The alternative arrangements for supervision and
evaluation shall be made in confidence by the applicable
Dean or Associate Provost of Graduate Studies and
Research (for graduate students) and shall not prejudice
the status of the student, faculty or academic staff
member, or teaching / laboratory assistant.
Nothing in this policy shall be construed as condoning
consensual relationships between faculty or academic staff
members or teaching / laboratory assistants and students.
8.4.2.4 Class and Laboratory DisciplineIt is recognized that the educational process can be
hampered by students misbehaving in the classroom.
This can take a variety of forms including rowdiness, lack
of respect towards the instructor, asking questions in a
disruptive way, outright rudeness, and bad manners.
No instructor is required to accept misbehavior by
individual or group of students. All instructors will adopt
the following strategy for handling class discipline from the
first day of lecturing:
Discipline guidelines will be explained to the students in
the first lecture of the semester.
Instructors will give an initial warning the first time that
they face the slightest sign of unacceptable behavior.
Instructors will request the student or group of students to
leave the class immediately if the incident occurs again.
Instructors will request the student to report to the Student
Affairs’ Office directly after the lecture.
Instructors will record all discipline incidents and report
them immediately to the Student Affairs’ Office.
Recurring incidents from the same student will be
notified to the Student Affairs’ Office, which could result
in suspension from the University. Please refer to the
University’s Non- Academic Student Regulations and
Conduct Review Policy in Volume VI (Student Life Policies),
for additional information.
8.4.2.5 Class CancellationsOn rare occasions, it may be necessary to cancel a
scheduled class. Under such circumstances, students will
be notified in advance, to the extent possible, by the usual
means of notification.
8.4.2.6 Classroom CourtesyProfessional responsibility requires prompt and regular
attendance of instructors at their classes and other
assigned duties. Classes are to begin and end promptly.
Students are free to assume that a class has been
canceled and leave if the instructor is not present within
fifteen minutes of the usual starting time unless the
instructor has informed the class otherwise.
8.4.2.7 Course FeedbackThe students are required to give their feedback on all
courses at the end of every semester, which ensures the
quality of course delivery. Student feedback is further
considered during course review and development.
8.5 THESIS POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
8.5.1 Supervisor Responsibilities8.5.1.1 Information and GuidanceSupervisors shall be responsible for:
• advising the student on the selection of the thesis
topic and the nature and quality of the program of
work to be undertaken;
• giving the student all possible assistance regarding
access to material, equipment, and other resources
essential to his/her thesis.
8.5.1.2 MeetingsIt is the responsibility of supervisors to provide guidance
through regular and systematic weekly meetings with
their students. Supervisors should keep a record of such
meetings in a student file. The first meeting should
be within a week of thesis topic allocation. This first
meeting should normally be spent discussing supervision
arrangements and arranging to draw up a work plan. Where
a student has more than one supervisor, the supervisors
are responsible for ensuring that they and the student
meet to decide how they will divide the responsibilities and
how arrangements for future meetings are to be made.
8.5.1.3 ProgressSupervisors should request regular written submissions
from students regarding their progress. Provided
the submitted work is legible and delivered on time,
supervisors should provide constructive evaluation and
criticism in reasonable time. This should normally be in
advance of the next meeting with the student.
If the progress is inadequate, or the standard of work is
below that expected, the supervisor should ensure that
the student is made aware of this at the time. Where
necessary, the supervisor should advise the student on
withdrawal from the program.
8.5.1.4 Thesis Proposal/Progress Report/Thesis Submission and ExaminationDepending on their program, students are required
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50 51
to submit a Thesis Proposal, a Progress Report, and/
or a Thesis. They are also required to give initial/interim/
final presentations.
It is the responsibility of the supervisor to advise the
student on the methodology and form of presentation
of the proposal/progress report/thesis. This should
include constructive comments on the technical details
(and its integrity) and the writing style of a formal draft
of the proposal/progress report/thesis. Supervisors
must also ensure that the work of the student explicitly
acknowledges the work of others and satisfies the
University’s policy on plagiarism. A breach of the
University plagiarism policy on any of the work prepared
by the student must be reported to the relevant Program
Chair and the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies
and Research.
Supervisors are responsible for assisting the student to
plan for the initial/interim/final presentations before they
take place.
8.5.1.5 PublicationsSupervisors should encourage their students to publish
their thesis results in refereed international conferences
and journals. This provides a useful measure of the quality
of the work undertaken by the student. For those cases
where the student is not a co-author, the supervisor
should acknowledge the contribution of the student in
any published material or presentation which involves the
student’s work.
8.5.1.6 Deferred Access to ThesisUnder certain circumstances, access to the thesis may
be deferred because of the need for confidentiality. It is
the responsibility of the supervisor to make the relevant
Program Chair aware of this matter. It may be necessary
for the supervisor to ask the Associate Provost for
Graduate Studies and Research, through the relevant
Program Chair, to raise issues of confidentiality in advance
with potential examiners.
8.5.1.7 Dispute with StudentIf a supervisor has, for any reason, a dispute with his/
her student, he/she should discuss this with the relevant
Program Chair or, if the supervisor is the Program Chair, with
the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and Research.
8.5.2 Student Responsibilities8.5.2.1 Privileges and ObligationsGraduate students are entitled to the same rights and privileges
as other University students and are subject to the same Code
of Discipline. Candidates must comply with the University’s
current regulations, as set out in this Catalog and/or any other
documents provided by the University. The student attention is
drawn in particular to the University policy on Plagiarism.
It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that he/she has
read and understood the documents provided by the University
and that he/she is aware of and abides by the regulations.
8.5.2.2 Academic DirectionA graduate student is normally required to carry out
an independent investigation and write a thesis. This
thesis work must be carried out under the direction of a
supervisor approved by the University.
8.5.2.3 Conduct of Project/ThesisUltimately, the student’s thesis work is his/her own
responsibility. The student should keep in touch with his/
her supervisor and meet regularly and should submit
written work regularly to the supervisor for comments. The
student should make every effort to meet agreed deadlines
for work to be submitted, and when this is not possible, it
is the student’s responsibility to renegotiate timetables.
Students are required to attend such courses as are
specified by the supervisor in consultation with the
Program Chair and the Associate Provost for Graduate
Studies and Research. They should submit a brief report to
the supervisor on any external events attended.
8.5.2.4 Contact with SupervisorStudents should maintain regular contact with their thesis
supervisor. Students who fail to maintain regular contact
with their supervisor (at least once every two weeks for a
full-time student and at least once a month for a part-time
student) without good reason (e.g. on medical grounds
or other reasons acceptable to the University authorities)
will be issued with a written warning by the academic
thesis supervisor who will also inform the Associate
Provost for Graduate Studies and Research through the
relevant Program Chair. Once three such warnings have
been issued, the matter will be discussed by the Graduate
Studies Committee. The committee will make suitable
recommendations to the Associate Provost for Graduate
Studies and Research, and subsequently the Provost and
President, regarding the action to be taken. This may result
in termination of student registration.
8.5.2.5 HolidaysStudents should discuss with their Supervisor the times
and duration of holidays.
8.5.2.6 PublicationsStudents will be encouraged to publish their thesis results
in refereed international conferences and journals. This
provides a useful measure of the quality of the thesis work
undertaken by the student. Students should acknowledge
ACADEMIC POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
the contribution of their supervisor in any published material
or presentation which involves the supervisor’s work.
8.5.2.7 Intellectual PropertyStudents should acknowledge and must agree to abide
by the University’s Intellectual Property Policy concerning
allocation of income arising from the exploitation of
intellectual property rights.
8.5.2.8 Deferred Access to ThesisUnder certain circumstances, access to the thesis may be
deferred because of the need for confidentiality. It is the
responsibility of the student to make his/her supervisor
aware of this matter and to follow the relevant procedures.
8.5.2.9 Dispute with SupervisorIf a student has, for any reason, a dispute with his/her
supervisor, he/she should discuss this with the relevant
Program Chair or, if that person is the student’s supervisor,
with the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and
Research.
8.5.2.10 AppealsA student who disagrees with any decision made by the
University authorities regarding any aspect of the thesis
may lodge a formal request for the University to investigate
the matter using the University’s Appeals procedure.
Before this action is taken the student is recommended to
consult with his/her supervisor, the relevant Program Chair
or Associate Provost for Graduate Studies and Research.
52 53
Student Life & Services
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54 55
9.1 OFFICE OF STUDENT SERVICES
The Office of Student Services is dedicated to providing
quality services and support for students on and off
campus. The Office advocates students’ needs, facilitates
student involvement, and encourages students to accept
responsibilities of membership in a campus community.
Operating within the framework of total student
development, the Office is committed to promoting a
caring, cooperative campus environment that values
diversity and reflects an appreciation of the dignity of all
people.
9.1.1 Student Life and Student ServicesStudents at Khalifa University are encouraged to participate
in extracurricular activities. Student Life Services plan, in
a student-centered manner, athletic, cultural, and social
activities enabling students to develop personal talents and
interests.
The University has many facilities and offers many on-
campus services on both its campuses tailored to the
needs of its students. The aim is to promote a campus
climate that enhances the educational, physical, social
and emotional well-being of students, and creates a
collaborative, caring, and participatory work environment.
9.1.2 Career ServicesCareer Services at Khalifa University engages students in
educationally purposeful experiences resulting in student
learning and development, academic success and degree
completion.
The aim is to help students identify academic majors;
develop career plans and goals; become employment
ready and build relationships with employers. Career
Services will:
Educate and empower students to develop, implement,
and continuously evaluate their academic and career goals;
1. Assist students in their transition into and out of
Khalifa University;
2. Liaise with departments to plan appropriate
workshops;
3. Facilitate opportunities for students to develop
relationships with employers for experiential work
place learning;
4. Provide career development and networking
opportunities for the University’s students;
5. Help students and alumni become employment ready
by offering workshops and learning opportunities
concerned for example with resume development;
cover letter writing, interview preparation; mock
interview opportunities and networking skills;
6. Empower students to be socially conscious, culturally
sensitive leaders committed to civic engagement and
social inclusion (volunteerism);
7. Work with Alumni to explore further educational study,
such as masters or doctorate programs.
Current Career Services activities include: Seminars
& Workshops, Industrial Visits, Career Fairs, Library
Resources, Student Competitions, Student Internships,
and University Research Conferences.
9.1.3 Counseling ServicesKhalifa University places great emphasis on student
welfare and considers student counseling integral to
effective learning and academic progress. The Counseling
Services provide individual and group counseling
intervention to assist students with personal and social
concerns which impact negatively on their academic
achievements and success. Counseling Services:
1. Provide a safe environment where students can
receive the appropriate intervention to cope with
challenges that impact aspects of their lives (personal,
financial, health);
2. Provide personality assessment to students;
3. Help students develop personal skills.
All students are encouraged to make use of the
Counseling Services.
Any information shared within a counseling meeting will
be held strictly confidential and will not be shared with
administrators, faculty, staff or anyone else without the
permission of the student, or unless the students poses
harm to themselves or others.
In addition to student welfare counseling, the University
also offers students peer tutoring services to assist
students academically. Please refer to the current Student
Handbook for additional information.
9.1.4 Disability ServicesThe University assists students with disabilities. The
services provided include: information on accessibility,
identification of accommodations, liaison with faculty and
staff in establishing accommodations, (i.e., equipment,
tests, note-taking, etc.) and the provision of auxiliary aids
when required. Please refer to University Policies Volume
II (Community Policies), section on Disability Program for
additional information.
9.1.5 Housing AccommodationsAt Khalifa University, gender specific student
accommodations make it convenient for resident students
to reach academic buildings as well as other University
services and recreational facilities. The University housing
accommodations offer an environment in which students
have the chance to meet and learn from one another.
The Sharjah Campus provides purpose-built student
housing for men, which is located on campus. This makes
it convenient for resident students to access the academic
buildings as well as other services and recreational
facilities.
The Abu Dhabi campus provides leased off-campus
accommodation for both male and female students.
Transportation is provided to and from the campus.
9.2 ALUMNI ASSOCIATIONThe Alumni Association supports Khalifa University’s
mission to be recognized as a prominent university
by building a positive image, promoting University
and alumni accomplishments, providing a network for
alumni interaction, and developing economic and social
benefits for graduates. The Alumni Association provides
graduates with opportunities for continued affiliation with
the University community. As members of the Alumni
Association, former students of Khalifa University are
offered a variety of benefits including library privileges at
the campus, professional development programs, access
to athletic and cultural events on campus and more.
The most important benefits, however, are the
opportunities to network with fellow alumni and maintain
ties with the University.
9.3 EMERGENCY SERVICESEmergency services are provided by the campus Security
Department, which operates twenty-four hours daily.
These services can be requested by calling or contacting
the Security Department. Emergency phones are located
throughout campus for your safety and convenience.
Please refer to the University’s Emergency Plan for
additional information.
9.4 VISA SERVICESStudents who are not UAE nationals and wish to apply to
Khalifa University should contact the Office of Admissions
regarding visa matters. Once accepted, all such students
must enroll as full-time students. Students who are
under their guardian’s sponsorship for visa shall remain
on the guardian sponsorship. A letter will be provided
stating that the student is a Khalifa University student for
renewal purposes.
9.5 ORIENTATION PROGRAM FOR NEW STUDENTS
New and transfer students participate in an orientation
program that introduces them to various aspects of the
Khalifa University community. During these programs
the students meet with academic advisors, plan an
academic program, register for classes, learn about
University resources and campus life, and meet with
Khalifa University students, faculty, Student Services and
counseling staff, and new classmates. The orientation
sessions are normally held before the fall semester and the
spring semester.
9.6 STUDENT SPONSORED ORGANIZATIONSStudent-sponsored organizations are an integral part of the
learning process at most institutions of higher education.
The academic experience is enriched by participation in
activities that allow students to pursue their personal
interests outside the classroom. The Office of Student
Services, in collaboration with the Student Council, acts
as the central support for University recognized student
organizations. Its role includes supervising and providing
assistance with program planning and implementation.
The student organizations at Khalifa University span a wide
range of interests, including sports, literature, science &
technology, recreation, culture, and social issues. These
organizations offer students opportunities for leadership
development and for involvement in University life.
9.7 KHALIFA UNIVERSITY STUDENT COUNCIL
The Khalifa University Student Council is an organization
established to ensure student representation on campus.
The Student Council is an elected body that articulates
student views and interests in the University. The council
is a vehicle for ensuring that students can contribute to,
and have a voice in, formulating University priorities and
policies. It also provides a structure for greater student
involvement on campus.
The council plays a central role in the extracurricular life
of the University. It acts as the central headquarters for
the Student Activities Office, as well as for offices of the
various clubs and associations on campus.
STUDENT LIFE ANDSERVICES
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9.8 UNIVERSITY FACILITIES
9.8.1 Mosque and Prayer RoomsKhalifa University provides gender specific, purpose-
fitted rooms for prayers. This includes separate areas for
`Wudhu’ (ablution for prayers), washing and cleaning for
both men and women.
9.8.2 Restaurants and Coffee LoungesCafeterias on the University campuses offer hot and cold
meals during the day. The University also operates coffee
lounges that provide light meals and beverages.
9.8.3 Sport, Fitness, and Entertainment FacilitiesAll sports, fitness, and entertainment facilities at the
University are gender specific and are provided for the
benefit of Khalifa University students with a valid student
card.
Recreational facilities including a gymnasium, swimming
pool, tennis courts, and playing field, are available at
the Sharjah campus. The Abu Dhabi campus provides
arrangements for access to off-campus facilities.
STUDENT LIFE AND SERVICES
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Msc in Electrical & Computer EngineeringProgram
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10.1 ABOUT THE PROGRAMThe M.Sc. in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE)
degree is awarded to candidates who successfully
complete the taught courses and research thesis project
requirements of the program. The M.Sc. in ECE gives
candidates the opportunity to deepen their knowledge in
the broad field of ECE and contribute to the process of
discovery and knowledge creation through the conduct of
research. The program is designed for candidates with a
bachelor degree in Electrical, Electronic, Communication,
Computer, Software, Biomedical Engineering, Information
Technology or other pertinent specializations. The taught
part of the program includes some core courses and
a set of electives that the students can choose from.
The M.Sc. in ECE gives the students the opportunity to
organize the selection of the elective courses and the
thesis topic to follow a specialization track within the
program. The thesis is an independent investigation of a
specialized area within the general field of electrical and
computer engineering and associated disciplines.
10.2 PROGRAM GOALSThe educational goals (objectives) of the M.Sc. in Electrical
and Computer Engineering program are to produce
graduate who:
1. Advance professionally and be recognized as leaders
in their chosen fields.
2. Apply their technical expertise to address the needs of
society in critical, creative, ethical, and innovative manner.
3. Further develop their knowledge and skills through
graduate education and professional schools.
10.3 PROGRAM OUTCOMES
A student graduating with the M.Sc. in Electrical and
Computer Engineering will be able to:
1. Identify, formulate, and solve advanced electrical
and computer engineering problems through the
application of modern tools and techniques and
advanced knowledge of mathematics and engineering
science.
2. Acquire knowledge of contemporary issues in the field
of electrical and computer engineering.
3. Design and conduct experiments, as well as analyze,
interpret data and make decisions.
4. Conduct research and document and defend the
research results.
5. Function on teams and communicate effectively.
6. Conduct themselves in a professional and ethical
manner.
10.4 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTSThe university general admission requirements as set
out in 4.1 apply for admission to the MSc in Mechanical
Engineering program.
Bachelor degrees relevant for admission to the program
are Electrical, Electronic, Communication, Computer,
Software, Mechatronics, and Biomedical Engineering,
Information Technology and Computer Science. Candidates
with degrees in other pertinent specializations may also
be considered. In such cases, candidates will be asked to
submit course descriptions along with their transcripts.
10.5 PROGRAM STRUCTURE10.5.1 Program StructureThe M.Sc. in Electrical and Computer Engineering program
consists of a minimum of 36 credit-hours. The required
program credits are distributed as follows: 9 credits of
Program Core courses, 15 credits Program Electives
courses, and 12 credits of ECE Master’s Thesis work. A
student may organize the selection of the elective courses
and the master’s thesis topic to follow a specialization track
within the broad field of ECE. In such cases the track will be
noted on the student’s transcript. The table below presents
a summary of the MSc in ECE degree program structure and
requirements. All the M.Sc. in ECE program courses, with
the exception of the Research Seminar and the Master’s
Thesis, have a credit rating of three credits each.
Summary of MSc in ECE Degree Program Structure and Requirements
Category Credits Required
Program Core
Program Electives
ECE Master’s Thesis
Total
9
15
12
36
10.5.2 Number of Courses and Curricular OfferingsStudents seeking the degree of M.Sc. in ECE must
successfully complete a minimum of 36 credited hours as
specified in the categories detailed in this section with a
minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.0.
10.5.3 Program CoreThe M.Sc. in ECE degree program core requires a
minimum of 9 credits consisting of 3 credits of engineering
mathematics, 6 credits of ECE core courses, and ECE
research seminar course which has zero credit rating.
The courses for each one of the core categories are
specified below.
• Engineering Mathematics Courses (3 credits)
Students must select at least one course from the list
below:
– MATH 601 Engineering Mathematical Analysis
– MATH 602 Numerical Methods in Engineering
– MATH 603 Random Variables and Stochastic
Processes
• ECE Core Courses (6 credits):
Students must select at least two courses from the list
below:
– ECCE 610 Digital Signal Processing
– ECCE 620 Real-Time Embedded Systems
– ECCE 630 Advanced Computer Networks
• ECCE 695 Seminar in Research Methods (0 credits)
10.5.3 Program ElectivesStudents must complete a minimum of 15 credits of
electives. The list of electives that students can select
from includes the courses not used to meet the ECE Core
requirement above as well as those listed below:
– ECCE 611 Advanced Digital Signal Processing
– ECCE 612 Multimedia Processing
– ECCE 621 Digital ASIC Design
– ECCE 622 RF and Mixed-Signal Circuits Design
– ECCE 625 Digital Integrated Circuits Design
– ECCE 631 Advanced Internet and Computing Paradigms
– ECCE 632 Modern Operating Systems
– ECCE 640 Communication Systems Design
– ECCE 641 Wireless Communications Systems
– ECCE 642 Broadband Communication Networks
– ECCE 643 Radar Systems
– ECCE 694 Selected Topics in ECE
– BMED 600 Physiological Systems
– BMED 613 BioSignal Processing
– BMED 652 Physiological Control Systems
– ROBO 633 Machine Vision and Image Understanding
– ROBO 650 Autonomous Robotic Systems
– ROBO 651 Modeling and Control of Robotic Systems
MSC IN ELECTRICAL AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING
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Msc in InformationSecurity Program
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11.1 ABOUT THE PROGRAMThe M.Sc. in Information Security degree is awarded for
candidates who successfully complete the taught courses
and thesis requirements of the program. The program is
targeted for students with various backgrounds such as
graduates of Computer Science, Computer Engineering,
Electronic engineering, Communication engineering,
Information Technology, Mathematics, or other pertinent
specializations. Hence, the program starts with common
core courses that cover essential Information Security
topics. Afterwards, there are three themes that allow
the students to choose an area of specialization.
Subsequently, there are electives which cover extra
topics to broaden the student’s knowledge in areas not
covered in the core. Finally, the candidates work on a
M.Sc. thesis on their chosen area. The thesis work may
be undertaken in several topics corresponding to the focus
areas identified by the relevant supervisors. Alternatively,
where applicable, students may propose thesis topics of
their own or work on solving problems of their respective
sponsoring organizations.
11.2 PROGRAM GOALSThe educational goals (objectives) of the M.Sc. in
Information Security program are to produce graduate who:
1. Advance professionally and be recognized as leaders
in their chosen fields.
2. Apply their technical expertise to address the needs of
society in critical, creative, ethical, and innovative manner.
3. Further develop their knowledge and skills through
graduate education and professional schools.
11.3 PROGRAM OUTCOMESA student graduating with the M.Sc. in Information
Security program will be able to:
1. Identify, formulate, and solve advanced information
security problems through the application of advanced
knowledge of information security.
2. Acquire knowledge of contemporary issues and
demonstrate an advanced level of understanding in the
field of information security.
3. Design and conduct experiments, as well as analyze,
interpret data and make decisions.
4. Conduct research in a chosen area of specialization
and document and defend the research results.
5. Use techniques and modern tools necessary for
information security practice.
6. Function on teams and communicate effectively.
7. Understand professional and ethical responsibilities.
11.4 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTSThe university general admission requirements as set
out in 4.1 apply for admission to the MSc in Information
Security program.
Bachelor degrees relevant for admission to the program
are Computer Science, Information Technology,
Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics or
Mathematics, or equivalent.. Candidates with degrees in
other pertinent specializations may also be considered.
In such cases, candidates will be asked to submit course
descriptions along with their transcripts.
Students from the above disciplines without adequate
computing background will be assigned a set of remedial
courses from the undergraduate computing courses
below. The assigned courses will depend on the specific
background of the particular student. Credits from the
remedial courses do not count toward fulfillment of the
degree requirements and are not used to calculate the
graduate CGPA.
ENGR 112 Introduction to Computing
CMPE 211 Object Oriented Programming
CMPE 221 Computer Architecture and Organization
CMPE 312 Operating Systems
CMPE 324 Data Communication and Networking
Conditionally admitted students must produce by the end
of the first semester of registration satisfactory evidence
that they have the ability to carry out the program of work
effectively. This will be assessed as follows:
• The student must achieve an overall grade point
average of 3.00 on a 4.0 scale in the first nine credit
hours of credit-bearing courses studied for the
Master’s program.
• The student must achieve a minimum TOEFL score
of 79 iBT or its equivalent (e.g. a minimum Academic
IELTS score of 6.0) by the end of the first semester
of registration.
• The candidate must submit an official GRE score in the
General Test by the end of the first semester
of registration.
MSC IN INFORMATIONSECURITY PROGRAM
If the student fails to satisfy the above conditions, then his/
her registration will be terminated.
11.5 PROGRAM STRUCTURE11.5.1 Program ComponentsThe M.Sc. in Information Security is equivalent to 36 credit-
hours. The program consists of two main components:
• Taught Courses Component: in this component the
student is required to complete a program of advanced
study in information security. This component is
equivalent to 24 credit-hours and consists of 8
courses, with 3 credit-hours each. The 8 courses (24
credit-hours) are: 4 core courses (12 credit-hours), 2
theme courses (6 credit-hours) and 2 optional courses
(6 credit-hours) selected from a list of electives. The
taught courses component contributes 2/3 of the
overall graduation grade point average.
• Thesis Component: in this component the student
is required to carry out an independent project in
information security. This component is equivalent to
12 credit-hours (4 courses) and as such contributes 1/3
of the overall graduation grade point average.
11.5.2 Number of Courses and Curricular OfferingsAs already discussed, the taught courses component
of the program is equivalent to 24 credit-hours and
contributes 2/3 of the overall graduation grade point
average. It consists of 8 courses, with 3 credit-hours each,
as follows:
• 4 core courses (12 credit-hours). These are:
– ISEC 602 Introduction to Cryptography
– ISEC614 Mathematics for Information Security
– ISEC 615 Computer and Network Security
– One of the following two courses depending on
the theme:
• ISEC601 Information Security Management (for the
E-Business Security and the Digital Forensics themes),
or
• ISEC616 Algebra for Cryptology (for the Cryptology
theme)
• 2 theme courses (6 credit-hours) that belong to one of
the following themes:
– Theme 1: E-Business Security
(ISEC605 Web and E-Business Security and
ISEC606 Software and Database Security)
– Theme 2: Digital Forensics
(ISEC607 Advanced Operating Systems and
ISEC608 E-Forensics and Computer Crime)
– Theme 3: Cryptology
(ISEC611 Advanced Cryptography and
ISEC617 Cryptanalysis)
• 2 optional courses (6 credit-hours) selected from the
following list of electives:
– ISEC609 Wireless Networks and Mobile Security
– ISEC610 Identity Management
– ISEC612 Trusted Computing
– ISEC618 Cryptographic Algorithm Design
– ISEC619 Information and Coding Theory
– ISEC620 Cryptographic Hardware and Embedding
– ISEC621 Hardware and System Architecture Security
– ISEC622 Penetration Testing
11.6 STUDY PLANTypical study plans for full-time and part-time students
enrolled on the M.Sc. in Information Security program
are shown below. Each student is expected to select the
courses in consultation with her/his academic advisor.
Typical Study Plan for Full-Time Students
Year 1,
Semester 1
• Core Course 1
• Core Course 2
• Core Course 3
• Core Course 4
Year 1,
Semester 2
• Theme course 1
• Theme course 2
• ISEC 613 M.Sc. in
Information Security Thesis
Year 2,
Semester 1
• Elective course 1
• Elective course 2
• ISEC 613 M.Sc. in
Information Security Thesis
Year 2,
Semester 2
• ISEC 613 M.Sc. in
Information Security Thesis
Typical Study Plan for Part-Time Students
Year 1,
Semester 1
• Core Course 1
• Core Course 2
Year 1,
Semester 2
• Core course 3
• Core course 4
Year 2,
Semester 1
• Theme course 1
• Theme course 2
Year 2,
Semester 2
• Elective course 1
• Elective course 2
Year 3,
Semester 1
• ISEC 613 M.Sc. in
Information Security Thesis
Year 3,
Semester 2
• ISEC 613 M.Sc. in
Information Security Thesis
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MSc inMechanical EngineeringProgram
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12.1 ABOUT THE PROGRAMThe M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering (ME) degree is
awarded to candidates who successfully complete the
taught courses and research thesis project requirements
of the program. The M.Sc. in ME gives candidates
the opportunity to deepen their knowledge in the
broad field of ME and contribute to the process of
discovery and knowledge creation through the conduct
of research. The program is designed for candidates
with a bachelor degree in Mechanical, Mechatronics,
Aerospace/Aeronautical, Materials, Nuclear, Industrial, and
Biomedical Engineering, or other pertinent specializations.
The taught part of the program includes some core
courses and a set of electives that the students can
choose from. The M.Sc. in ME gives the students the
opportunity to organize the selection of the elective
courses and the thesis topic to follow a specialization
track within the program. The thesis is an independent
investigation of a specialized area within the general field
of mechanical engineering and associated disciplines.
12.2 PROGRAM GOALSThe educational goals (objectives) of the M.Sc. in
Mechanical Engineering program are to produce graduate
who:
1. Advance professionally and be recognized as leaders
in their chosen fields.
2. Apply their technical expertise to address the needs
of society in critical, creative, ethical, and innovative
manner.
3. Further develop their knowledge and skills through
graduate education and professional schools.
12.3 PROGRAM OUTCOMESA student graduating with the M.Sc. in Mechanical
Engineering will be able to:
1. Identify, formulate, and solve advanced mechanical
engineering problems through the application
of modern tools and techniques and advanced
knowledge of mathematics and engineering science.
2. Acquire knowledge of contemporary issues in the field
of mechanical engineering.
3. Design and conduct experiments, as well as analyze,
interpret data and make decisions.
4. Conduct research and document and defend the
research results.
5. Function on teams and communicate effectively.
6. Conduct themselves in a professional and
ethical manner.
12.4 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTSThe university general admission requirements as set
out in 4.1 apply for admission to the MSc in Mechanical
Engineering program.
Bachelor degrees relevant for admission to the program
are Mechanical, Mechatronics, Aerospace/Aeronautical,
Materials, Nuclear, Industrial, and Biomedical
Engineering. Candidates with degrees in other pertinent
specializations may also be considered. In such cases,
candidates will be asked to submit course descriptions
along with their transcripts.
12.5 PROGRAM STRUCTURE12.5.1 Program StructureThe M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering program consists
of a minimum of 36 credit-hours. The required program
credits are distributed as follows: 9 credits of Program
Core courses, 15 credits Program Electives courses, and
12 credits of ME Master’s Thesis work. A student may
organize the selection of the elective courses and the
master’s thesis topic to follow a specialization track within
the broad field of ME. In such cases the track will be noted
on the student’s transcript. The table below presents a
summary of the MSc in ME degree program structure and
requirements. All the M.Sc. in ME program courses, with
the exception of the Research Seminar and the Master’s
Thesis, have a credit rating of three credits each.
Summary of MSc in ME Degree Program Structureand Requirements
Category Credits Required
Program Core
Program Electives
ME Master’s Thesis
Total
9
15
12
36
12.5.2 Number of Courses and Curricular OfferingsStudents seeking the degree of M.Sc. in ME must
successfully complete a minimum of 36 credited hours as
specified in the categories detailed in this section with a
minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.0.
12.5.3 Program CoreThe M.Sc. in ME degree program core requires
a minimum of 9 credits consisting of 3 credits of
engineering mathematics, 6 credits of ME core courses,
and ME research seminar course which has zero credit
rating. The courses for each one of the core categories
MSC IN MECHANICALENGINEERING
are specified below.
• Engineering Mathematics Courses (3 credits)
Students must select at least one course from the list
below:
– MATH 601 Engineering Mathematical Analysis
– MATH 602 Numerical Methods in Engineering
– MATH 603 Random Variables and Stochastic
Processes
• ME Core Courses (6 credits):
Students must select at least two courses from the list
below:
– MECH 601 Advanced Thermodynamics
– MECH 602 Advanced Fluid Mechanics
– MECH 603 Advanced Dynamics
– MECH 604 Introduction to Continuum Mechanics
• ME 695 Seminar in Research Methods (0 credits)
12.5.4 Program ElectivesStudents must complete a minimum of 15 credits of
electives. The list of electives that students can select
from includes the courses not used to meet the ME Core
requirement above as well as those listed below.
– MECH 605 Advanced Heat Transfer
– MECH 610 Micro/Nanotechnology and Applications
– MECH 611 Energy Systems and Energy Conversion
– MECH 612 Control System Theory and Design
– MECH 614 Advanced Manufacturing Processes
– MECH 621 Fatigue and Fracture of Engineering
Materials
– MECH 694 Selected Topics in Mechanical Engineering
– AERO 622 Structural Dynamics and Aeroelasticity
– AERO 630 Aerospace Materials and Structures
– AERO 631 Boundary Layer Analysis
– AERO 632 Aerothermochemistry
– BMED 600 Physiological Systems
– BMED 613 BioSignal Processing
– BMED 652 Physiological Control Systems
– ROBO 633 Machine Vision and Image Understanding
– ROBO 650 Autonomous Robotic Systems
– ROBO 651 Modeling and Control of Robotic Systems
12.5.5 ME Master’s ThesisMECH 699 Master’s Thesis (12 credits)
A student must complete a master’s thesis that involves
creative research oriented work within the broad field
of ME under the direct supervision of at least one full-
time faculty advisor. The research findings must be
documented in a formal thesis and defended successfully
in a viva voce examination.
12.5.6 Program TracksA student may select a group of elective courses to form
a specialization track within the M.Sc. in ME program.
The track will be noted on the student’s academic record
(transcript) provided that the student completes:
– A minimum of 9 credits from the group of courses
designated by the track.
– A master research thesis within the domain of the
track.
The tracks supported by the M.Sc. in ME program and the
required courses for each of the tracks are set out below.
Aerospace EngineeringAERO 630 Aerospace Materials and Structures
AERO 631 Boundary Layer Analysis
AERO 632 Aerothermochemistry
Robotic SystemsROBO 633 Machine Vision and Image
Understanding
ROBO 650 Autonomous Robotic Systems
ROBO 651 Modeling and Control of Robotic
Systems
Biomedical SystemsBMED 600 Physiological Systems
BMED 613 BioSignal Processing
BMED 652 Physiological Control Systems
12.5.7 Study PlanA typical study plan for the M.Sc. in ME program is shown
below. The student is expected to select the courses in
consultation with her/his academic advisor.
Typical Study Plan for Full Time Students
Year 1, Semester 1 • Engineering Math course
• ME Core course 1
• ME Core course 2
• ME 695 Research Seminar
Year 1, Semester 2 • ME Elective course 1
• ME Elective course 2
• ME 699 Master’s Thesis
Year 2, Semester 1 • ME Elective course 3
• ME Elective course 4
• ME 699 Master’s Thesis
Year 2, Semester 2 • ME Elective course 5
• ME 699 Master’s Thesis
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Typical Study Plan for Part-Time Students
Year 1, Semester 1 • Engineering Math course
• ME Core course 1
• ME 695 Seminar in Research
Methods
Year 1, Semester 2 • ME Core course 2
• Elective course 1
Year 2, Semester 1 • Elective course 2
• Elective course 3
Year 2, Semester 2 • Elective course 4
• ME 699 Master’s Thesis
Year 3, Semester 1 • Elective course 5
• ME 699 Master’s Thesis
Year 3, Semester 2 • ME 699 Master’s Thesis
MSC IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
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MSc inNuclearEngineeringProgram
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13.1 ABOUT THE PROGRAMThe M.Sc. in Nuclear Engineering degree is awarded for
candidates who successfully complete the taught courses,
field trips, and thesis requirements of the program. The
program is targeted for students with various backgrounds
such as graduates of Mechanical Engineering, Electrical
and Computer Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Material
Science, Mathematics or other pertinent specializations.
Hence the program starts with common core courses that
cover essential Nuclear Engineering topics. Afterwards,
there are two themes that allow the students to choose
an area of specialisation. Subsequently, there are electives
which cover extra topics to broaden the student’s
knowledge in areas not covered in the core. In addition to
taught courses, students are required to complete a field
trip component. In this component the student is required
to carry out a series of experiments to consolidate theory
lessons given in class as well as visit selected nuclear
facilities to gain an overall appreciation of nuclear energy
technology at the front and back end of the fuel cycle
as well during reactor operations. Finally, the candidates
work on a M.Sc. thesis on their chosen area. The thesis
work may be undertaken in several topics corresponding
to the focus areas identified by the relevant supervisors.
Alternatively, where applicable, students may propose
thesis topics of their own or work on solving problems of
their respective sponsoring organisations.
13.2 PROGRAM GOALSThe goals of the program are:
1. To provide graduates with deep knowledge and
specialization in nuclear engineering.
2. To enable graduates to relate nuclear engineering
theory to practice.
3. To equip graduates with design, problem solving, and
research skills in nuclear engineering.
4. To prepare graduates for careers as nuclear
engineering professionals.
5. To encourage graduates to pursue self-learning and
personal development experiences.
6. To produce graduates who will be able to contribute
substantially to academia, industry, and the community.
13.3 PROGRAM OUTCOMESA student graduating with an M.Sc. in Nuclear Engineering
will be able to:
a) demonstrate a high level of understanding and
specialization in nuclear engineering.
b) practice a high level of nuclear safety awareness and
culture.
c) analyse and characterise existing nuclear engineering
systems.
d) design a nuclear engineering system, component, or
process to meet desired needs.
e) use the techniques, skills and modern tools necessary
for nuclear engineering practice.
f) conduct independent investigation in the field of
nuclear engineering with rigour and discrimination.
g) communicate and write appropriately in the area of
nuclear engineering.
h) understand legal, regulatory and ethical issues
and professional responsibility related to nuclear
engineering.
i) realize the impact of nuclear engineering in a global
and societal context.
j) recognize the need for, and engage in, life-long
learning.
13.4 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTSThe university general admission requirements as set
out in 4.1 apply for admission to the MSc in Nuclear
Engineering program.
Bachelor degrees relevant for admission to the program
are Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical
and Computer Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Materials
Science, or Mathematics. Candidates with degrees in
other pertinent specializations may also be considered.
In such cases, candidates will be asked to submit course
descriptions along with their transcripts.
Applicants with no or insufficient prior background to meet
the prerequisites of the program may be admitted to the
program but will be assigned undergraduate courses and/or
one or more of the following remedial Nuclear Engineering
courses: NUCE301 Radiation Science and Health Physics,
NUCE302 Applied Mathematics for Nuclear Engineering,
NUCE303 Engineering Principles for Nuclear Engineering,
NUCE401 Introduction to Nuclear Reactor Physics.
Conditionally admitted students must produce by the end
of the first semester of registration satisfactory evidence
that they have the ability to carry out the program of work
effectively. This will be assessed as follows:
• The student must pass all first semester courses,
with a minimum pass grade of C in every course, and
MSC IN NUCLEARENGINEERING PROGRAM
achieve a semester GPA of at least 3.0.
• The student must achieve a minimum TOEFL score
of 79 iBT or its equivalent (e.g. a minimum Academic
IELTS score of 6.0) by the end of the first semester
of registration.
If the student fails to satisfy the above conditions, then his/
her registration will be terminated.
13.5 PROGRAM STRUCTURE13.5.1 Program ComponentsThe M.Sc. in Nuclear Engineering program is equivalent
to 36 credit-hours. The program consists of three main
components:
• Taught Courses Component: in this component the
student is required to complete a program of advanced
study in Nuclear Engineering. This component is
equivalent to 24 credit-hours and consists of 8
courses, with 3 credit-hours each. The 8 courses (24
credit-hours) are: 4 core courses (12 credit-hours), 2
theme courses (6 credit- hours) and 2 optional courses
(6 credit-hours) selected from a list of electives. The
taught courses component contributes 2/3 of the
overall graduation grade point average.
• Field Trips Component: in this component the
student is required to carry out a series of experiments
to consolidate theory lessons given in class as well
as visit selected nuclear facilities to gain an overall
appreciation of nuclear energy technology at the
front and back end of the fuel cycle as well during
reactor operations. By necessity, the field trips will be
undertaken outside the UAE (e.g, in the Republic of
South Korea) until such time that nuclear laboratories
and facilities are available in the UAE.
• Thesis Component: in this component the student is
required to carry out an independent research thesis work
in Nuclear Engineering. This component is equivalent to
12 credit-hours (4 courses) and as such contributes 1/3 of
the overall graduation grade point average.
13.5.2 Number of Courses and Curricular OfferingsAs already discussed, the taught courses component
of the program is equivalent to 24 credit-hours and
contributes 2/3 of the overall graduation grade point
average. It consists of 8 courses, with 3 credit-hours each,
as follows:
• 4 core courses (12 credit-hours). These are:
– NUCE601 Thermal Hydraulics in Nuclear Systems
– NUCE602 Nuclear Materials, Structural Integrity
and Chemistry
– NUCE603 Nuclear Reactor Theory
– NUCE604 Radiation Measurement
and Applications
– NUCE605 Radiation Measurement and
Applications Laboratory
• 2 theme courses (6 credit-hours) that belong to one of
the following themes:
– Theme 1: Reactor Design and Analysis (NUCE611
Nuclear Systems Design and Analysis and
NUCE612 Nuclear Safety and Probabilistic Safety
Assessment)
– Theme 2: Nuclear Fuel Cycle and Security
(NUCE613 Nuclear Fuel Cycle and NUCE614
Nuclear Security and Safeguards)
• 2 optional courses (6 credit-hours) selected from the
following list of electives:
– NUCE621 Nuclear Instrumentation and Control
– NUCE622 Advanced Thermal Hydraulics
– NUCE623 Radiological Environmental Impact
Assessment
– NUCE624 Radiation Damage and Nuclear Fuels
Applicants with no or insufficient prior background to meet
the prerequisites of the program may be admitted to the
program but will be assigned undergraduate courses and/or
one or more of the following remedial Nuclear Engineering
courses:
– NUCE301 Radiation Science and Health Physics
– NUCE302 Applied Mathematics for Nuclear
Engineering
– NUCE303 Engineering Principles for Nuclear
Engineering
– NUCE401 Introduction to Nuclear Reactor
Physics.
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
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13.6 STUDY PLANTypical study plans for full-time and part-time students
enrolled on the M.Sc. in Information Security program
are shown below. Each student is expected to select the
courses in consultation with her/his academic advisor.
Typical Study Plan for Full-Time Students
Year 1, Semester 1 Core Course 1
Core Course 2
Core Course 3
Core Course 4
Year 1, Semester 2 Theme course 1
Theme course 2
NUCE 631 MSc in Nuclear
Year 2, Semester 1 Elective course 1
Elective course 2
NUCE 631 MSc in Nuclear
Year 2, Semester 2 NUCE 631 MSc in Nuclear
Typical Study Plan for Part-Time Students
Year 1, Semester 1 Core course 1
Core course 2
Year 1, Semester 2 Core course 3
Core course 4
Year 2, Semester 1 Theme course 1
Theme course 2
Year 2, Semester 2 Elective course 1
Elective course 2
Year 3, Semester 1 NUCE 631 MSc in Nuclear
Year 3, Semester 2 NUCE 631 MSc in Nuclear
MSC IN NUCLEAR ENGINEERING PROGRAM
78 79
Msc byResearch in EngineeringProgram
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
80 81
14.1 ABOUT THE PROGRAMThe MSc by Research in Engineering degree is awarded by
the University for independent investigation of a specialized
area in a particular Engineering discipline and the completion
of 10 credits of taught courses. Candidates for this degree
are supervised by experienced researchers and are expected
to demonstrate initiative in their approach and innovation
in their work. M.Sc. by Research in Engineering candidates
prepare and present a thesis on their chosen area. Research
may be undertaken in several topics corresponding to the
areas of focus identified by the University.
14.2 PROGRAM AIMThe aim of the M.Sc. by Research in Engineering
program is to produce graduates able to conduct research
independently at a high level of originality and quality.
14.3 PROGRAM GOALSThe goals of the M.Sc. by Research in Engineering
program are:
1. To provide graduates with specialization in their field
of study
2. To equip graduates with research skills and techniques
3. To equip graduates with research communication skills
4. To equip graduates with personal effectiveness skills
5. To produce graduates who will make substantial
contributions to academia, industry, business, and
the community.
6. To undertake and publish research that is relevant to
industry and business, and is highly regarded by the
international community.
14.4 PROGRAM OUTCOMESA student graduating with an M.Sc. by Research in
Engineering degree will be able to:
a. demonstrate a good level of understanding and
specialization in his/her field of study
b. conduct independent investigation with rigor and
discrimination
c. demonstrate an appreciation of the relationship of the
area of his/her research to a wider field of knowledge
d. demonstrate a critical appreciation of the literature in
his/her area of research
e. make a contribution to the body of knowledge in his/
her field of study
f. demonstrate an ability to appraise critically his/her
contribution in the context of his/her overall investigation
g. constructively defend his/her research outcomes
h. write clearly, accurately, cogently, and in a style
appropriate to purpose
i. construct coherent arguments and articulate ideas
clearly to a range of audiences
j. demonstrate personal effectiveness and the capacity
to work independently
14.5 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTSThe university general admission requirements as set
out in 4.1 apply for admission to the MSc by Research in
Engineering program.
Bachelor degrees relevant for admission to the program
include electrical and computer engineering, computer
science, and information technology. Candidates with
degrees in other pertinent specializations may also be
considered. In such cases, candidates will be asked to
submit course descriptions along with their transcripts.
Conditionally admitted students must produce by the end
of the first semester of registration satisfactory evidence
that they have the ability to carry out research effectively.
This will be assessed as follows:
– The student must submit a satisfactory initial progress
report three months after the first registration.
This report will be evaluated by the supervisor, the
Graduate Studies and Research Advisory Panel, and
the Graduate Studies Committee.
– The student must achieve a minimum TOEFL score
of 79 iBT or its equivalent (e.g. a minimum Academic
IELTS score of 6.0) by the end of the first semester
of registration.
– The candidate must submit an official GRE score in the
General Test by the end of the first semester
of registration.
If the student fails to satisfy the above conditions, then his/
her registration will be terminated.
14.6 PROGRAM STRUCTURE
The MSc by Research in Engineering is conducted by a
major research component and 10 credits of taught courses.
Overall the program is equivalent to 36 credit hours.
The taught courses component includes a course on
research methods (ENGR 695) as well as courses in
MSC BY RESEARCH IN ENGINEERING PROGRAM
advanced mathematics and engineering topics. The
advanced mathematics courses that students select from
include MATH 601 Engineering Mathematical Analysis,
MATH 602 Numerical Methods in Engineering, and MATH
603 Random Variables and Stochastic Processes. The
engineering courses will depend on the particular discipline
that the student selects to concentrate on during the
course of his/her studies. The academic advisor and the
Program Chair provide advice to the student about the
courses to enroll on to meet the taught course requirement
of the program. For the taught courses component of the
program students must maintain a minimum cumulative
GPA of 3 out 4.
The research component of the program is nearly ¾ of the
overall credit requirement of the program. The progress
of a student is assessed through a set of progress reports,
as outlined section 7.1, and a final thesis. The final
thesis must be successfully defended through viva voce
examination, as outlined in section 7.1, in order for the
student to meet the research requirement of the program.
14.7 STUDY PLAN
Typical study plans for full-time and part-time students
enrolled on the M.Sc. by Research in Engineering program
are shown below. Each student is expected to select the
courses in consultation with her/his academic advisor.
Typical Study Plan for Full-Time Students
Year 1,
Semester 1
• Core course 1
• Core course 2
• ENGR 695 Seminar in
Research Methods
• ENGR 699 Engineering
Thesis
Year 1,
Semester 2
• Core course 3
• ENGR 699 Engineering
Thesis
Year 2,
Semester 1
• ENGR 699 Engineering
Thesis
Year 2,
Semester 2
• ENGR 699 Engineering
Thesis
Typical Study Plan for Part-Time Students
Year 1,
Semester 1
• Core course 1
• ECCE 695 Seminar in
Research Methods
• ENGR 699 Engineering
Thesis
Year 1,
Semester 2
• Core course 2
• ENGR 699 Engineering
Thesis
Year 2,
Semester 1
• Core course 3
• ENGR 699 Engineering
Thesis
Year 2,
Semester 2
• ENGR 699 Engineering
Thesis
Year 3,
Semester 1
• ENGR 699 Engineering
Thesis
Year 3,
Semester 2
• ENGR 699 Engineering
Thesis
82 83
MA inInternational & Civil Security Program
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
84 85
15.1 ABOUT THE PROGRAMThe 21st century combines the promise of great progress
with the resurgence of old dangers and the emergence
of new ones. Those dangers include terrorism, warfare,
weapons of mass destruction, and natural disasters.
Some of these dangers are rooted in technology, others
in society, and still others in nature itself. Attaining
the strategic vision of the UAE will require deep
understanding of those threats, and the knowledge and
skills to address them.
This unique Masters Program is being offered by Khalifa
University’s Institute of International and Civil Security
(IICS). The Institute’s mission is to become a leading
academic center for supporting research, teaching and
policy analysis in the field of security studies. In addition
to what takes place inside the classroom, the Institute
hosts speakers, workshops, and other events, and works
with other institutions – within government, academia,
and the private sector – to advance security research,
education, training, and policy-making.
15.2 PROGRAM GOALSThe goals of the program are:
1. To provide current and future security professionals
with sophisticated knowledge of the U.A.E., regional
and global security environment.
2. To provide current and future security professionals
with the skills to produce, analyze and apply security-
related research.
3. To apply higher education and research toward
enhancing U.A.E, regional, and international security.
15.3 PROGRAM OUTCOMESKnowledge OutcomesProgram graduates will have demonstrated:
a. Sophisticated knowledge of the international, national,
and regional security environment, to include the
relevant theories and history of conflict.
b. Sophisticated knowledge of natural and human caused
threats to international, national, regional, and civil
security.
c. An understanding of the relationships between
and within the different levels of government and
the private sector relative to international, national,
regional and civil security.
d. Sophisticated knowledge of offensive and defensive
technologies relevant to international, national,
regional, and civil security.
Skills OutcomesProgram graduates will have demonstrated:
e. The quantitative and qualitative research and analysis
skills needed to contribute to the security field as
practitioners, researchers and educators.
f. The written and verbal skills needed to effectively
communicate within the fields of international and civil
security.
g. The organizational skills needed to contribute to
the security field as practitioners, researchers and
educators.
h. The skills to apply appropriate technologies to support
national, international, and civil security.
Competencies:i. Our graduates will have the ability to integrate
and effectively utilize the theoretical frameworks,
knowledge, and skills necessary for contributing to
international, national, and civil security. A student
graduating with an M.Sc. in Nuclear Engineering will
be able to:
15.4 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTSThe university general admission requirements apply for
admission to the MA in International and Civil Security
program.
The program will consider applicants from any area of
undergraduate specialization.
Conditionally admitted students must produce by the end
of the first semester of registration satisfactory evidence
that they have the ability to carry out the program of work
effectively. This will be assessed as follows:
• The student must pass all first semester courses,
with a minimum pass grade of C in every course, and
achieve a semester GPA of at least 3.0.
• The student must achieve a minimum TOEFL score
of 79 iBT or its equivalent (e.g. a minimum Academic
IELTS score of 6.0) by the end of the first semester of
registration.
If the student fails to satisfy the above conditions, then his/
her registration will be terminated.
15.5 PROGRAM STRUCTURE15.5.1 Program ComponentsThe MA in International and Civil Security program is
equivalent to 36 credit-hours. The program consists of two
main components:
MA IN INTERNATIONAL ANDCIVIL SECURITY PROGRAM
• Taught Courses Component: The core coursework
is a common curriculum for all students that covers
the basic dimensions of both civil security and the
broader security context in which civil security
planning and policy must occur. It consists of four
courses which focus on the major aspects of security
including threats and hazards, terrorism, intelligence,
and governance. Each core course is three credits,
for a total of 12 credits. Upon completion of the core
coursework, students must take an additional four
courses in one of the advanced tracks:
– The Civil Security Track focuses on preparing
current and aspiring civil security professionals.
– The Regional Security Track focuses on preparing
current and aspiring policy analysts and senior
civilian and military officials.
Each track course is three credits, for a total of 12 credits.
• Master’s Thesis Component: Upon completion of the
advanced track, students will be required to write a
Master Thesis which makes an original contribution to
the field. The thesis will be based on original research,
supported with evidence from relevant secondary
sources. The Master Thesis is a 9 credit course.
Concurrently with the Masters Thesis, students
are required to register for a Thesis Workshop. This
workshop is designed to help M.A. students develop a
well-crafted Masters Thesis, sustaining their research
and writing agenda throughout the process, and
learning about the academic profession as a whole.
• The Thesis Workshop is intended to be an in depth
look at how the students’ particular theses will be
developed as well as an overall writing and support
group - keeping students in touch and on track while
they are writing up their thesis. As such, it is relatively
informal. There will be a short presentation at the
beginning of each session by the instructor, but the
bulk of the class will consist of students sharing
their theses, their problems, and their successes
for structured and constructive criticism. The Thesis
Workshop is a 3 credit course.
15.5.2 Number of Courses and Curricular Offerings• Core Coursework (4 courses, 12 credits)
– IICS 601: Introduction to International Relations
and Security Issues (3 credits) o IICS 602:
Introduction to Civil Security (3 credits)
– IICS 603: Social Science Research Methods (3
credits)
– IICS 604: Regional Security and the Terrorist
Threat (3 credits)
• Tracks: (4 courses, 12 credits)
Civil Security Track:Select at least TWO of the following:
– IICS 622: Technology and Civil Security (3 credits)
– IICS 624: Creating Integrated Civil Security (3
credits) o IICS 626: Comparative Civil Security
Systems(3 credits)
Select any TWO courses from those designated as
electives for your track (including the 3rd of the courses
listed above; IICS 622, IICS 624, or IICS 626)
Regional Security Track:Select at least TWO of the following:
– IICS 621: Technology and International Security
(3 credits)
– IICS 623: Regional Security Challenges and Policy
Options (3 credits)
– IICS 625: Globalization and Middle East Security
(3 credits)
Select any TWO courses from those designated as
electives for your track (including the 3rd of the courses
listed above; IICS 621, IICS 623, or IICS 625)
Electives* – IICS 645: Policy Analysis (3 credits)
– IICS 646: Intelligence and National Security
(3 credits)
– IICS 690: Civil Infrastructure Protection Design
(3 credits)
– IICS 691: Nuclear Security (3 credits)
– IICS 692: Computer and Network Security
(3 credits)
– IICS 693: Wireless Network and Mobile Security
(3 credits)
– IICS 694: Information Security Management
(3 credits)
* This list changes frequently as new electives are under
development at all times.
• Research Design and Thesis (2 courses, 12 credits
– IICS 698: Thesis Workshop (3 credits)
– IICS 699: Master’s Thesis (9 credits)
86 87
PhD inEngineeringProgram
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
88 89
16.1 ABOUT THE PROGRAMThe PhD in Engineering degree is awarded for candidates
who successfully complete the taught courses and
research components of the program. The students are
required to complete a program of advanced courses
in engineering. The students are also required to carry
out an independent investigation of a specialized area in
engineering. Candidates for this degree are supervised
by experienced researchers and are expected to
demonstrate initiative in their approach and innovation
in their work. Ph.D. Candidates prepare and present a
thesis on their chosen area. Research may be undertaken
in several topics corresponding to the areas of focus
identified by the University.
A candidate applying to the program may opt to apply for a
PhD in Engineering with a specialization in one of the areas
listed below or for an interdisciplinary PhD in Engineering
(i.e., with no one specialization).
– Aerospace Engineering
– Biomedical Engineering
– Electrical and Computer Engineering
– Mechanical Engineering
– Nuclear Engineering
– Robotics
16.2 PROGRAM AIMThe aim of the Ph.D. in Engineering program is to produce
graduates able to conduct research independently at the
highest level of originality and quality.
16.3 PROGRAM GOALSThe objectives of the program are to:
1. provide graduates with high specialization in their field
of study
2. equip graduates with research skills and techniques
3. equip graduates with research communication skills
4. equip graduates with research management skills
5. provide graduates with good understanding of the
research environment and its requirements
6. equip graduates with personal effectiveness skills
7. produce graduates who will make substantial
contributions to academia, industry, business, and
the community.
8. undertake and publish research that is relevant to
industry and business, and is highly regarded by the
international community.
16.4 PROGRAM OUTCOMESA student graduating with a Ph.D. in Engineering degree
will be able to:
a. demonstrate a high level of understanding and
specialization in his/her field of study
b. conduct independent investigation with rigor and
discrimination
c. acquire and collate information through the effective
use of appropriate sources and equipment
d. show an appreciation of the relationship of the area of
his/her research to a wider field of knowledge
e. demonstrate a critical appreciation of the literature in
his/her area of research
f. demonstrate an ability to recognize and validate
research problems
g. demonstrate an understanding of relevant research
methodologies and techniques and their appropriate
application to his/her research
h. apply effective research project management techniques
i. make a significant and original contribution to the body
of knowledge in his/her field of study
j. demonstrate an ability to appraise critically his/her
contribution in the context of his/her overall investigation
k. constructively defend his/her research outcomes
l. write clearly, accurately, cogently, and in a style
appropriate to purpose
m. construct coherent arguments and articulate ideas
clearly to a range of audiences
n. show awareness of relevant research issues including
environmental, political, economical, social, copyright,
ethical, health and safety, exploitation of results, and
intellectual property rights
o. demonstrate personal effectiveness attributes
including initiative, motivation, flexibility, self-discipline,
self-reliance, and the capacity to work independently
16.5 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTSThe university general admission requirements as set out in
4.1 apply for admission to the PhD in Engineering program.
A candidate applying to the program may opt to apply for a
PhD in Engineering with a specialization in one of the areas
listed below or for an interdisciplinary PhD in Engineering
(i.e., with no one specialization)
– Aerospace Engineering (AERO)
– Biomedical Engineering (BMED)
– Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECCE)
– Mechanical Engineering (MECH)
– Nuclear Engineering (NUCE)
– Robotics (ROBO)
PHD IN ENGINEERINGPROGRAM Each of the above specializations may set specific
constraints to be imposed on the discipline of the
candidate’s Master degree to be acceptable for admission
to the specialization. Disciplines acceptable for admission
to each specialization are listed below:
– Aerospace Engineering (AERO) Related Disciplines
Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical/
Mechatronics Engineering, or Electrical and Computer
Engineering/Science.
– Biomedical Engineering (BMED) Related Disciplines Biomedical Engineering, Bio-engineering/science,
Mechanical/Mechatronics Engineering, Aerospace/
Aeronautical Engineering, or Electrical and Computer
Engineering/Science.
– Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECCE) Related Disciplines Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Communication
Engineering, Computer Engineering/Science, Software
Engineering, Information Technology, Biomedical
Engineering, Nanotechnology and Integrated Systems,
Mechatronics, or Robotics.
– Mechanical Engineering (MECH) Related Disciplines Mechanical/Mechatronics Engineering, Aerospace/
Aeronautical Engineering, Civil and Environmental
Engineering, Materials Engineering/Science, Nuclear
Engineering, or Industrial Systems Engineering.
– Nuclear Engineering (NUCE) Related Disciplines
Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical/Mechatronics
Engineering, Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineering,
Electrical and Computer Engineering/Science,
Chemical Engineering, Engineering/Medical Physics,
or Materials Engineering/Science.
– Robotics (ROBO) Related Disciplines Robotics, Mechanical/Mechatronics Engineering,
Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineering, Biomedical
Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Electrical and Computer
Engineering/Science, or Information Technology.
The list of disciplines related to a given specialization
is an indicative list rather than an exclusive/exhaustive
list. Candidates with Master degrees in other pertinent
disciplines may also be considered. In such cases,
candidates will be asked to submit course descriptions
along with their transcripts.
A candidate applying to be considered for an
interdisciplinary PhD in Engineering (i.e., with no one
specialization) must satisfy the admission requirements of
at least one of the specializations.
In addition, candidates must have sufficient prior
background to meet the prerequisites of the program.
In particular, candidates must have achieved a minimum
level of proficiency in mathematics in the form of a grade
of B or better in at least one graduate-level mathematics
course or an equivalent score on a university-administered
mathematics proficiency test.
16.6 PROGRAM STRUCTURE16.6.1 Program ComponentsThe Ph.D. in Engineering program consists of two main
components:
– Taught Courses Component: in this component, the
student is required to complete a program of
advanced study.
– Research Component: in this component, the student
is required to carry out an independent investigation of
a specialized area of engineering.
– For the award of the Ph.D. in Engineering degree, the
student must satisfy the following requirements:
– Courses: The student must satisfy the taught courses
requirements of the program.
– Research Proposal: In addition to satisfying the taught
courses requirements of the program, the student is
required to prepare a research proposal and pass a
research proposal examination before being allowed to
progress further on the program.
– Thesis: The student must then complete a thesis on
original research and defend it successfully in a viva
voce examination.
16.6.2 Number of Courses and Curricular OfferingsThe taught courses component of the program consists
of a minimum of 24 credit-hours at the doctorate level
(i.e. beyond master level) distributed as follows: 4 credit-
hours on Research Methods in Engineering (ENGR 701),
and 20 credit-hours of technical courses selected from an
approved list of electives. For a PhD in Engineering with
specialization in a given area, at least 12 credit-hours will
have to be selected from the themed list of electives for
that particular specialization.
• Core Courses (4 credits)
Course Code Course Name Credits
ENGR 701 Research Methods in
Engineering
4
• Technical Elective Courses (20 credits)
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
90 91
Aerospace Engineering (AERO)
Course Code Course Name Credits
AERO 701 Nonlinear Structural
Dynamics
4
AERO 701 Advanced Composite
Materials and Structures
4
AERO 701 Numerical Methods in
Aerofluids
4
AERO 704 Selected Topics in Aerospace
Engineering
4
Biomedical Engineering (BMED)
Course Code Course Name Credits
BMED 701 Biomolecular and Cellular
Engineering
4
BMED 702 Pathophysiology and
Augmentation of Human
Movement
4
BMED 703 Integrative Biosystems 4
BMED 704 Selected Topics in
Biomedical
4
Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECCE)
Course Code Course Name Credits
ECCE 702 Advanced Digital
Communication
4
ECCE 703 Network and Information
Security
4
ECCE 704 Multimedia Communication
and Processing
4
ECCE 705 Advanced RF Circuit and
Amplifier Design
4
ECCE 707 Broadband and Wireless
Communications
4
ECCE 708 Distributed Computing 4
ECCE 709 Advanced Embedded
Systems Design
4
ECCE 710 Nanoelectronic Systems
Technology and Design
4
ECCE 711 Selected Topics in Electrical
and Computer Engineering
4
Mechanical Engineering (MECH)
Course Code Course Name Credits
MECH 701 Advanced Solid Mechanics 4
MECH 702 Advanced Thermal Systems
Design
4
MECH 703 Micromechanics of Materials 4
MECH 704 Selected Topics in
Mechanical Engineering
4
Nuclear Engineering (NUCE)
Course Code Course Name Credits
NUCE 701 Advanced Computational
Methods of Particle
Transport
4
NUCE 702 Environmental Protection,
Detection and Biokinetics
4
NUCE 703 Aging Management of
Nuclear Materials
4
NUCE 704 Selected Topics in Nuclear
Engineering
4
Robotics (ROBO)
Course Code Course Name Credits
ROBO 701 Control of Robotic Systems 4
ROBO 702 Cognitive Robotics 4
ROBO 703 Robotic Perception 4
ROBO 704 Selected Topics in Robotics 4
• Pre-Requisite Graduate Mathematics Courses (6 credits)
Students who do not satisfy the admission mathematics
requirement will need to select from the courses listed below.
Mathematics (MATH)
Course Code Course Name Credits
MATH 601 Engineering Mathematical
Analysis
3
MATH 602 Numerical Methods in
Engineering
3
MATH 603 Random Variables and
Stochastic Processes
3
16.7 STUDY PLAN
Typical study plans for full-time and part-time students
enrolled on the PhD. in Engineering program are shown
below. Each student is expected to select the courses in
consultation with her/his academic advisor.
PHD IN ENGINEERING PROGRAM
Typical Study Plan for Full-Time Students
Year 1, Semester 1 ENGR 701 Research Methods in
Engineering
Core course 1
Core course 2
Year 1, Semester 2 Core course 3
Core course 4
ENGR 799 PhD Research Thesis
Year 2, Semester 1 Core course 5
ENGR 799 PhD Research Thesis
Year 2, Semester 2 ENGR 799 PhD Research Thesis
Year 3, Semester 1 ENGR 799 PhD Research Thesis
Year 3, Semester 2 ENGR 799 PhD Research Thesis
Typical Study Plan for Part-Time Students
Year 1, Semester 1 • ENGR 701 Res. Meth. in Engr.
• Core course 1
Year 1, Semester 2 • Core course 2
• Core course 3
Year 2, Semester 1 • Core course 4
• ENGR 799 PhD Res. Thesis
Year 2, Semester 2 • Core course 4
• ENGR 799 PhD Res. Thesis
Year 3, Semester 1 • ENGR 799 PhD Res. Thesis
Year 3, Semester 2 • ENGR 799 PhD Res. Thesis
Year 4, Semester 1 • ENGR 799 PhD Res. Thesis
Year 4, Semester 2 • ENGR 799 PhD Res. Thesis
Year 5, Semester 1 • ENGR 799 PhD Res. Thesis
Year 5, Semester 2 • ENGR 799 PhD Res. Thesis
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
92 93
GraduateCourse Descriptions
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
94 95
17.1 GRADUATE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
AEROSPACE ENGINEERING
AERO 701 Nonlinear Structural Dynamics (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Graduate level course in advanced dynamics
is required; graduate level course in vibrations is
recommended; familiarity with Matlab and with numerical
integration of ordinary differential equations are required
Basics of linear vibrations: Single DOF free and forced
vibration, Lagrange’s equations and virtual work, Multi-
DOF vibrations and modal analysis, Proportional damping
models, Parametric excitation and stability. Development
of model nonlinear systems: Chain of oscillator models
with isolated or distributed nonlinearity, Oscillators with
geometric and inertial nonlinearity, Finite element beam
models with isolated nonlinearities. Nonlinear Response
Phenomena in Structural Vibratory Systems. Reduced
Order Modeling for Nonlinear Multi-DOF Systems.
Experimentation, data analysis, and simulation.
AERO 702 Advanced Composite Materials and Structures (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Graduate level course on Continuum
Mechanics and/or Elasticity
Introduction to fiber reinforced composites: applications:
past, present and future, review of stress and strain
concepts. Fibers and resin materials: types and properties.
Manufacturing techniques. Laminate and laminates:
micro-mechanical models, rule of mixtures, modeling of
the lamina, classical lamination theory (CLT). Analysis of
composite structures: beam, plate and shell modeling. Finite
element analysis of composite structures. Lamina strength,
Delamination, Fracture and failure. Sandwich composite
beam; cores and lamina face plates integration. Woven and
draped fabric composites. Multi-functional composites,
heat and electrical conductivity. Fundamental concepts and
principles of nanotechnology, nano-structured materials and
nano-composites. Methods in nanomechanics modeling
of nanocomposites. Experimental characterization of
composites and nanocomposites.
AERO 703 Numerical Methods in Aerofluids (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Proficiency in a computer programming
language (e.g. FORTRAN, C++, BASIC, etc), Graduate level
knowledge of incompressible and compressible viscous
fluid dynamics.
To provide students with the advanced background needed
to analyze, develop and implement algorithms for solution
of engineering flow problems over a wide range of Mach
numbers. Topics covered include Governing Equations,
Computational Grids, Discrete Modeling, Numerical
Solution of Elliptic Equations, Solution of 1-D, Unsteady
Parabolic and Hyperbolic Equations, Solution of the 2-D,
Unsteady Euler and Navier-Stokes Equations, and Boundary
Condition Treatment.
AERO 70 Selected Topics in Aerospace Engineering (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Permission of instructor and approval of the
Program Chair
Selected topics in current research interests not
covered by other courses. Contents will be decided by
the instructor and approved by the Graduate Studies
Committee. The Course may be repeated once with
change of contents to earn a maximum of 8 credit-hours
BIOMEDICAL ENGINERING
BMED 600 Physiological Systems (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: BMED 331 Biotransport Phenomena and
BMED 341 Molecular and Cellular Physiology I
(or equivalent)
This course introduces human physiology to a wide range
of graduate students with diverse backgrounds and varying
biological experience. This course is designed to provide
students with the mechanism of body function, regulation
and a brief overview of anatomic structure. Course
content will include the basic physical and chemical laws,
homeostatic control of nervous system, musculoskeletal,
circulatory, and respiratory systems. In addition to the
foundation material, a related case study or research topic
will be discussed.
BMED 613 BioSignal Processing (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: BMED 352 Biomedical Systems and Signal
Processing, or ELCE 302 Signal Processing (or equivalent)
Application of signal processing and modeling techniques
in real world Bio signals (Electrocardiography (ECG),
Electromygraphy (EMG) and Electroencephalography
(EEG), Blood Pressure and heart Sound). MATLAB based
physiological experiments, analysis and demonstration.
BMED 652 Physiological Control Systems (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: BMED 352 Biomedical Systems and Signal
Processing, or ELCE 344 Feedback control system, or
ELCE 444 Digital control system (or equivalent)
This course will expose graduate students to the design
“secrets” of a variety of physiological control systems from
an engineering viewpoint. How states of “health” versus
“disease” can be explained in terms of physiological
control system function (or dysfunction) will be considered.
Examples of physiological control systems to be explored
include: control of muscle tone, posture and locomotion;
determinants and control of heart rate and blood pressure,
body temperature regulation, respiratory mechanics and
control, renal function and its regulation.
BMED 701 Biomolecular and Cellular Engineering(4-0-4)Prerequisite: Prior coursework and/or research
experience in molecular and/or cellular biology and in
engineering systems.
To provide advanced knowledge on methodologies for
manipulation and detection of molecular and cellular
events. To provide in depth knowledge in a specific area
of research (linked to the focus areas of the faculty).
To review and evaluate in-depth the primary literature
emphasizing the particular research area. Topics covered
include Cardiac Regeneration, Advanced Drug Delivery
Systems, Cytoskeletal mechanics, Strategies for
Genetic Engineering, Genome-wide association studies,
Cellular Microenvironment, and Microfluidics in Biology
and Medicine.
BMED 702 Pathophysiology and Augmentation of Human Movement (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Prior coursework and/or research experience in
human physiology and in systems engineering
To provide in-depth understanding of neural, locomotor
and cardiovascular systems in health and disease. To
provide in-depth analysis of pathophysiology of diseases
and trauma and their improvement through the use of
technology. Topics covered include Neuromechanics and
augmentation of human locomotion, Sensory prostheses for
diabetic neuropathies, Amputation and targeted reinervation,
Therapy after spinal-cord injury, Regaining motor control
after traumatic brain injury (TBI), Cardiovascular control for
diabetic neuropathies, and Respiratory control for diabetic
neuropathies and people with TBI.
BMED 703 Integrative Biosystems (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Prior course work and/or research experience
in human physiology and in systems engineering
To provide advanced knowledge of integrative biosystems
and emerging tools and approaches for modeling complex
systems and analyzing high dimension datasets found in
biology and medicine. Topics covered include Experimental
techniques, Bioinformatics and analysis of experimental
data, Computational models of molecular/cellular systems,
and Bioinformatics in drug discovery and development.
BMED 704 Selected Topics in Biomedical Engineering (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Permission of instructor and approval of the
Program Chair
Selected topics in current research interests not
covered by other courses. Contents will be decided by
the instructor and approved by the Graduate Studies
Committee. The Course may be repeated once with
change of contents to earn a maximum of 8 credit-hours
ELECTRICAL AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING
ECCE 610 Digital Signal Processing (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite:ELCE 302 Signal Processing (or equivalent)
The course covers Sampling, Aliasing, and Quantization.
Digital Filters: Design and Analysis of FIR and IIR Filters,
Complex Filters, State Space Representation, Adaptive
Filters, Optimal Filters, Non-Linear Filters. Fourier Analysis
and Processing: DFT, FFT, DCT, Spectral Analysis, FFT
Processing, Signal Segmentation. DSP Implementation:
Coefficients Truncation, Integer and Floating Point DSP
Systems, DSP Chips. DSP Applications.
ECCE 611 Advanced Digital Signal Processing (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: ECCE 610 Digital Signal Processing
(or equivalent)
Statistical Signal Processing; Adaptive Filtering; Time-
Frequency and Multi-Rate Signal Processing; Sensor
Array Processing
ECCE 612 Multimedia Processing (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: ECCE 610 Digital Signal Processing (or
equivalent)
Audio Processing: audio fundamentals, audio filtering and
effects, audio enhancement, Image Processing: image
fundamentals, image manipulation, image filtering, image
enhancement, quality assessment, Video Processing:
video fundamentals, video editing, video filtering, video
enhancement, scene analysis.
ECCE 620 Real-Time Embedded Systems (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: ELCE 332 Microprocessor Systems
(or equivalent)
The course covers the integrated hardware and software
aspects of embedded processor architectures, along
with advanced topics including real-time, resource/device
and memory management. Contemporary processors,
such as ARM microcontroller, will be focused on and
used in projects.
ECCE 621 Digital ASIC Design (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: ELCE 230 Digital Logic Design (or
equivalent)
ASIC design flow: role of HDL in ASIC design. HDL coding
style for synthesis. ASIC testing and testbench creation.
Clocking in ASIC design. ASIC libraries. Constraints for
GRADUATE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
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synthesis. Static timing analysis (STA), statistical timing
analysis and chip variation. Floorplaning. Place and Route
of ASICs. Parasitics, noise and cross talk. Chip filling and
metal filing. Timing closure and tapeout. Fault models, test
pattern generation and design for testability techniques.
The course will use state of the art EDA (Electronic Design
Automation) tools such as Cadence and Synopsys.
ECCE 622 RF and Mixed-Signal Circuits Design (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: ELCE 322 Electronic Circuits and Devices
(or equivalent)
The course covers most relevant topics in the design of
the RF receiver architectures in CMOS technology. It also
discusses issues related to the design of mixed-signal
circuits. This is addressed in the context of the common
wireless standards and modulation schemes.
ECCE 625 Digital Integrated Circuits Design (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: ELCE 230 Digital Logic (or equivalent) and
ELEC 322 Electronic Circuits and Devices (or equivalent)
Analysis and design of digital integrated circuits.
Fabrication processes, device characteristics, parasitic
effects static and dynamic digital circuits for logic and
memory functions. Process technology scaling and
challenges, emerging technology and its impact on digital
integrated circuits. Impact of process variation on circuit
behavior. Design building block of digital system including
memory, combinational, sequential, and IO. System
integration options (TSV, SOC, SOP). Noise and noise
sources in digital systems. Interconnect and its impact on
digital design performance, power, and area. Synchronous
and A synchronous design, clock generation and distribution.
The course will use state of the art EDA (Electronic Design
Automation) tools such as Cadence and Synopsys.
ECCE 630 Advanced Computer Networks (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: CMPE 324 Data Communications and
Networking or CMME 320 Communication Networks
(or equivalent)
Modern and popular computer network technologies,
protocols and services. Next Generation Networks,
Triple-play services, Grid and Cloud Computing networks,
Wireless ad-hoc networks. Performance analysis,
modeling and simulation of computer networks.
ECCE 631 Advanced Internet and Computing Paradigms (3-0-3)Pre-RequisiteCMPE 311 Java and Network Programming
(or equivalent), and CMPE 324 Data Communications and
Networking or CMME 320 Communication Networks
(or equivalent)
This course provides the students with more advanced
topics in the area of Internet computing and acquaint them
with the elements which are shaping the future of internet
and web technologies
ECCE 632 Modern Operating Systems (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: CMPE 312 Operating Systems
(or equivalent)
Design and structure of today’s operating systems,
Virtualization, Smartphone OSes. Advanced topics in
Operating Systems: Processes, Threads, Multiprocessor
and Real-Time Scheduling, Synchronization, Virtual
Memory, File Systems, Protection, and Security. Case
Studies of Linux and Windows 7.
ECCE 640 Communication Systems Design (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: CMME 302 Digital Communications I
(or equivalent)
This course covers the main concepts in digital data
transmission. The topics covered will provide the
student with thorough understanding of the algorithms
and techniques used to design digital transmitters and
receivers to a high degree of fidelity.
ECCE 641 Wireless Communications Systems (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: CMME 400 Wireless Communications
(or equivalent)
This course covers advanced topics in wireless
communication systems and communication theory.
A major focus of the course is on the design and
analysis of fundamental and emerging topics in wireless
communication systems, e.g., multiple-input-multiple-
output (MIMO), space-time-coding, and multi-user
communication systems. Further topics include, but not
limited to, capacity analysis of fading channels, diversity
techniques, adaptive modulation and coding, multicarrier
and orthogonal-frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM),
and cooperative communications.
ECCE 642 Broadband Communication Networks (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: CMME 320 Communication Networks
or equivalent)
This course introduces some fundamental as well as
advanced topics in wireless and wire-line communication
networks for voice, data, and multimedia. The course
considers pivotal topics to understand, design and analyze
state of the art broadband wireless and wire-line networks.
ECCE 643 Radar Systems (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: CMME 304 Information Theory (or
equivalent) and CMME 310 Applied Electromagnetics
(or equivalent)
This course covers the main concepts in radar systems
design, including the physical limitations, waveform
design and multimode scheduling, antenna scanning and
limitations of radar tracking. The topics covered will provide
the student with thorough understanding of the design and
evaluation of modern radar systems.
PHD IN ENGINEERING PROGRAM
ECCE 694 Selected Topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: Will be specified according to the particular
topics offered under this course number
This course covers selected contemporary topics in
electrical and computer engineering. The topics will vary
from semester to semester depending on faculty availability
and student interests. Proposed course descriptions are
considered by the Department of Electrical and Computer
Engineering on an ad hoc basis and the course will be
offered according to demand. The proposed course
content will need to be approved by the Graduate Studies
Committee. The Course may be repeated once with change
of contents to earn a maximum of 6 credit hours.
ECCE 695 Seminar in Research Methods (1-0-0)Pre-Requisite: Graduate standing
This course introduces graduate students to research
methodologies and the process of formal inquiry in engineering
and applied sciences. It develops the skills necessary to read
and critically evaluate the research of others with emphasis
on contemporary issues. The course covers the process of
developing, documenting and presenting research proposals. It
also addresses codes of ethics in the engineering profession.
Finally, the course will provide suggestions and best practices
for success in graduate studies.
ECCE 699 Master’s Thesis (0-12-12)Pre-Requisite: Completion of MSc in ECE program core
courses, ECCE 695 Seminar in Research Methods, and
approval of the MSc in ECE program chair
In the Master’s Thesis, the student is required to
independently conduct original research under the
supervision of a full-time faculty advisor/s. The outcome
of the research work is disseminated by a thesis and
defended through a viva voce examination.
ECCE 702 Advanced Digital Communication (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Digital Communications 1 (CMME 302)
or equivalent
This course discusses the fundamental techniques used
in the physical layer of digital communication systems.
It is consisted from two parts: In the first part the main
topics are as follows: digital modulation, including complex
baseband representations, the concept of the signal
space, the design of modulation, optimum demodulation
and detection methods in AWGN channel, the channel
bandwidth requirements, signal design for band-limited
channels, differential and non-coherent modulation. The
second part deals with digital communications through
multipath fading channels, the evaluation of the error rate
performance of digital communication systems, diversity
techniques (including MIMO and OFDM techniques) and
Cooperative Communications
ECCE 703 Network and Information Security (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Computer Networks I (CMPE 322)
or equivalent
Secure Network Communication: Cryptographic algorithms,
Digital Certificates, PKI. Critical Network Security Services:
Entity Authentication and Access Control, Network Attacks,
Firewalls, Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems.
Security Protocols: IPsec, SSL, VPN, HTTPS. Application
Security: Popular application attacks and countermeasures
including Buffer Overflow, cross-site scripting. Protected
and unbreakable software. Database Security: vulnerability
assessment, SQL injection, auditing, encrypted databases.
Advanced Topics in Security: Cloud Security, Botnets,
Honeynets, SCADA security, Android Security.
ECCE 704 Multimedia Communication and Processing (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Digital Signal Processing or proof of
equivalence
Source Coding: definition and principles of source
coding and decoding. Audio Processing and Coding:
,audio restoration, audio compression: MPEG1/2/4,
AC3,audio and speech streaming. Image Processing and
Coding: image restoration, image compression: JPEG
and JPEG2000. Information hiding and watermarking
Video Processing and Coding: video fundamentals,
video motion analysis, video compression and standard
codecs: MPEG1/2/4, H.261/3/4, databases: indexing and
retrieval, MPEG7 Multimedia Communication: rate control,
scalability, transcoding, error resilience, Video signal over
packet networks, video traffic, priorities
ECCE 705 Advanced RF Circuit and Amplifier Design (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Filter Synthesis (ELCE 421) and Microwave
Circuits & Devices (ELCE 424), or equivalent
Power Gain: revision of S-parameters and Smith Charts,
power gain definitions, transducer gain and available power
gain. Constant gain circles. Unilateral and bilateral cases.
Stability: conditional and unconditional stability, stability
factor, stability circles, simultaneous conjugate match.
Broadband amplifier design: Fano’s limit, elementary
network synthesis, feedback techniques, balanced
amplifiers. Amplifier efficiency: definition of collector
efficiency and DC/RF conversion efficiency, introduction
to the nonlinear modeling of BJTs and MESFETs, high
efficiency topologies such as class E and F arrangements.
Low noise amplifier design: Noise temperature and noise
figure, noise figure circles, minimum noise figure. Practical
circuit design: Transistor biasing techniques, passive and
active biasing circuits. RF lumped components. Practical
LNA design showing a recommended design route and
constraints. Use of the HP-ADS software for schematic
capture, simulation and artwork generation. Circuit analysis,
linear and non-linear analysis, including circuit optimisation
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ECCE 707 Broadband Communication Systems (4-0-4)Prerequisite Digital Communications I (CMME 302) and
Wireless Communication (CMME 400), or proof
of equivalence
The course provides students with the latest advances
and developments in broadband communication
technologies and wireless/wired standards. Topics covered
include Advanced Single-Carrier and Multi-Carrier OFDM
transceivers, Advanced Multiple-Antenna Techniques,
Relaying and Cooperative Communications, Spectrum
Management, LTE-Advanced, Towards 5G, Wi-Fi, Wired
Standards, and Satellite communication standards.
ECCE 708 Distributed Computing (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Operating Systems (CMPE 312) and
Computer Networks I (CMPE 322) or equivalent
Introduction: motivation of distributed computing, network
and operating systems concepts, distributed systems
architectures, The Internet. Interprocess Communication:
message passing, primitive operations, data marshalling.
Socket APIs: Stream mode and datagram, Java socket,
secure sockets. Client-Server Computing: connection
and connectionless client-server, remote procedure
call, concurrent server, multithreading, mobile agents.
Distributed Objects: model, remote method invocation,
middleware. Service Discovery. Synchronization, Data
Replication, and Fault Tolerance. Global State and Snapshot
recording Algorithms. Peer-to-Peer Computing and Overlay
Graphs. Cloud Computing.
ECCE 709 Advanced Embedded Systems Design (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Microprocessor Systems (ELCE 322)
or equivalent
Modelling and Specification: Functional and non-
functional requirements, Common model of computation,
Specification languages, Internal representations. Analysis
and Estimation: Software performance estimation, System
performance analysis, Real-time system analysis, Power
estimation, Low power design issues. Codesign Issues:
Hardware/Software codesign and verification, Prototyping
and emulation, Reconfigurable platforms, Processors
architectures. Partitioning, Synthesis and Interfacing:
Basic partitioning issues, Co-Synthesis frameworks,
System-level partitioning, Interface generation, Memory
issues, Advanced interrupt issues. Application Software
and Operating Systems: Software design methods, Real-
time operating system (RTOS) services, Multitasking and
Concurrency, Advanced threading issues. System Aspects:
User interface considerations, Storage issues, System
connectivity, Safety critical systems, Embedded networks,
System security, Verification and validation issues, System
testing and quality assurance.
ECCE 710 Nanoelectronic Systems Technology and Design (4-0-4)
Prerequisite: Analog Integrated Circuits Design (ELCE 436)
or proof of equivalence
Semiconductor basics: revision of fundamental concepts,
i.e. band gap, p-n junction, recombination-generation
currents. Semiconductor Devices: bipolar, MOS,
memory technologies, Special devices. Nanoelectronics
Technology: Fabrication of micro/nano devices,
scaling, gate leakage, k-factor. Performance Issues in
Nanoelectronics: speed power issues, parallel processing,
power, power management strategies, extreme scaling.
Design Flow: Micro/Nano systems design flow, Computer
Aided Design tools, Hardware Descriptions Languages,
Synthesis techniques. Test and Verification: Fault models,
Test and Design for testability, Verification techniques.
ECCE 711 Selected Topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Permission of instructor and approval of the
Program Chair
Selected topics in current research interests not
covered by other courses. Contents will be decided by
the instructor and approved by the Graduate Studies
Committee. The Course may be repeated once with
change of contents to earn a maximum of 8 credit-hours.
ENGINEERING
ENGR 701 Research Methods in Engineering (4-0-4)Prerequisite: PhD standing
To provide sound knowledge and understanding of research
methodology and project management skills and their
application to engineering research and project development.
Topics covered include Aspects of PhD research, Critical
literature review, Citations and references, Technical writing,
Presentation skills, Software and Experimental Methods,
Modeling and Simulation Methods, Reliability and Validity
of Results, Analysis and Interpretation of Results, Project
management, and Professional issues in research.
ENGR 799 PhD Research Thesis (0-48-48)Prerequisite: ENGR 701 Research Methods in Engineering
and Approval of the PhD in Engineering Program Chair.
In the PhD Research Thesis, the student is required
to independently conduct original research under the
supervision of a full-time faculty advisor/s. The outcome
of the research work is disseminated by a thesis and
defended through a viva voce examination.
INFORMATION SECURITY
ISEC 601 Information Security Management (3-0-3)Prerequisites:
This course provides an introduction to the Information
Security Environment. Topics covered include the need
PHD IN ENGINEERING PROGRAM
for information security, management techniques, tools
and applications. Security strategy, architecture, policy and
standards are also addressed together with security audits,
ethics and the law and regulatory issues.
ISEC 602 Introduction to Cryptography (3-0-3)Prerequisites:
This course provides an introduction to cryptography that
covers the history of classical and modern cryptography.
The topics covered include the cryptographic services
of authentication, data integrity, confidentiality and non-
repudiation. Also covered are cryptographic ciphers,
authentication and integrity algorithms, protocols, and
public key infrastructures.
ISEC 605 Web and E-Business Security (3-0-3)Prerequisites: ISEC 601, ISEC 602, ISEC 614,
Co-Requisite: ISEC 606
This course covers the topics of web server security,
content security and E-Business security, digital certificates
including identification techniques, certificate authorities
and code signing, E-Business continuity and the legal and
privacy issues of E-Business.
ISEC 606 Software and Database Security (3-0-3)Prerequisites: ISEC 601, ISEC 602, ISEC 614, ISEC 615
This course covers the topics of the fundamentals
of software security, Risk management frameworks,
penetration testing, security operations, enterprise security
measures, secure development cycles, access control and
authentication, secure database connectivity, database
auditing and encryption.
ISEC 607 Advanced Operating Systems (3-0-3)Prerequisites: ISEC 615
This course covers issues in operating system (OS)
design including Processes and Threads, Scheduling
goals, scheduling methods and security and scheduling,
Synchronization and Deadlocks, Virtual Memory, Atomic
Transactions, File Systems and Distributed Systems and
OS Security.
ISEC 608 E-Forensics and Computer Crime (3-0-3)Prerequisites: ISEC 601, ISEC 615
Co-Requisite: ISEC 607
This course covers the topics of computer crimes, security
awareness and the need for digital forensics. The course
also covers the topics of computer evidence, presenting
evidence in court, media forensics, the digital forensic
process, data analysis, mobile and real time forensics and
explores a number of the current digital forensic tools.
ISEC 609 Wireless Network and Mobile Security (3-0-3)
Prerequisites: ISEC 602 and ISEC 615
This course covers the fundamentals of security issues
related to wireless networks and mobile environments
such as WLAN, WPAN, GSM, 3G and ubiquitous network.
The students will not only need to identify sources of
security threats of mobile environment and evaluate
the strength of various existing security but also design
standard authentication and security mechanism for
wireless and mobile communication environments.
ISEC 610 Identity Management (3-0-3)Prerequisites: ISEC602
This course will give students an understanding and
the insight of the current standards, technologies, and
widely used approaches for Identity Management such
as IdM system and its life cycle. Also, students will
assess security risks involved in IdM systems and plan a
customized IdM system based on an enterprise need.
ISEC 611 Advanced Cryptography (3-0-3)Prerequisites: ISEC 602, ISEC 614, and ISEC 616
On this course students will learn advanced concepts
and techniques pertaining to Cryptography and data
security such as complexity of computation, block ciphers,
stream ciphers, cryptographic hash functions, public key
cryptography and quantum cryptography. The students
will evaluate strength and weakness of various security
protocols as well as standard authentication protocols for
real communication environments.
ISEC 612 Trusted Computing (3-0-3)Prerequisites: ISEC 615
The course provides students with an understanding of
the principles behind trusted computing and what it can
do to improve system and user security. Topics include:
Introduction to trusted computing. Trusted Computing
Technology. Direct Anonymous Attestation (DAA).
Single-Sign-On (SSO). Contemporary issues of Trusted
Computing. Future of Trusted Computing.
ISEC 613 M.Sc. in Information Security Thesis (12-0-12)Prerequisites: Completion of MSc in ISEC program core
courses and approval of the MSc in ISEC program chair.
Each student will undertake a major individual thesis
work in the area of Information Security. The student
will demonstrate a high level of understanding and
specialization in the thesis area by undertaking a specific
item of research. Each student will develop their project
schedule, technical writing, and technical presentation
skills by delivering three documentations and presentations
as follows: Thesis Proposal and Initial Presentation,
Progress Report and Interim Presentation, and Thesis and
Final Presentation
ISEC 614 Mathematics for Information Security (3-0-3)Prerequisites: None
On this course students will learn the basic definitions and
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theories of abstract algebra, number theory, probability and
statistics that are appropriate to the field of information security.
The students will be able to apply these basic mathematical
concepts of abstract algebra, number theory and probability to
the areas of information security and cryptography.
ISEC 615 Computer and Network Security (3-0-3)Prerequisites: None
This course provides the student with the concepts
of securing modern computer systems and networks
and knowledge of how to address common problems
that lead to computer and network insecurity. Topics
include: computer and network principles, authentication,
authorization, integrity, confidentiality, vulnerability
assessment and management, malicious code and threats,
firewalls and network security devices.
ISEC 616 Algebra for Cryptography (3-0-3)Prerequisites: ISEC 614
This course provides the student with notions of algebraic
structures to work in the field of Cryptology and Information
Assurance. Topics include: linear algebra, vector spaces,
group theory, field theory and primitive polynomials.
ISEC 617 Cryptanalysis (3-0-3)Prerequisites: ISEC 602, ISEC 614, and ISEC 616
This course provides the student with an understanding of
the vulnerabilities of cryptosystems and how to improve
system and user security. Topics include attacks on classic
ciphers, linear and differential cryptanalysis, fast correlation
attacks on stream ciphers, algebraic attacks on AES,
different factoring and discrete log algorithms and side
channel attacks.
ISEC 618 Cryptographic Algorithm Design (3-0-3)Prerequisites: ISEC 602, ISEC 614
This course provides the student with an understanding of
the cryptographic algorithms and their complexity analysis.
Topics include: computationally hard problems, Boolean
functions, elliptic curve cryptography implementations,
properties and constructions of hash functions and
quantum algorithms.
ISEC 619 Information and Coding Theory (3-0-3) Prerequisites: ISEC 602, ISEC 614, and ISEC 616
This course provides the student with a good
understanding of the Information Theoretic viewpoint and
its applications in Coding Theory. Topics include: entropy,
algorithms over binary finite fields, channel models,
coding theory.
ISEC 620 Cryptographic Hardware and Embedding(3-0-3)Prerequisites: ISEC 602
This course provides the student with a good
understanding of Cryptographic Hardware and Embedding.
Topics include: Digital system design with an overview
of VHDL, the basic building blocks of Cryptography,
mathematical preliminaries, the design of binary finite
field computation units, the implementation of hash
functions, block cipher hardware design and asymmetric
cryptographic hardware design.
ISEC 621 Hardware and System Architecture Security (3-0-3)Prerequisites: ISEC 602, ISEC 614, and ISEC 616 Co-
requisites: ISEC 611, ISEC 617, ISEC 620
This course provides the student with a good
understanding of hardware and system architecture
Security: hardware system architecture security. Topics
include: Bus security and integrated networks, Memory
Security, Side Channel Analysis, Fault Analysis, Physical
unclonable functions, Physical Isolation and the Red/
Black Architecture.
ISEC 622 Penetration Testing (3-0-3)Prerequisites: ISEC 615
This course provides the student with a good
understanding of penetration Testing (also referred to
as Ethical Hacking). The course covers all aspects of the
subject from ethics to social engineering and then the
methodologies and tools and techniques that can be
used. The course also addresses the capture of malicious
software and the reporting of the results.
INTERNATIONAL AND CIVIL SECURITY
IICS 601: Introduction to International Relations and Security Issues (3-0-3)Prerequisites: None
This course provides a broad overview of how international
security is studied and pursued. In doing so, students will
learn about contending views on the nature of security and
how it is best attained. They will be introduced to such
concepts as the national interest, geopolitics, dimensions
and measures of power, grand strategy, the changing
nature of war, the security dilemma, deterrence, offense
and defense, alliances, security regimes, the role of small
states, the role of civil security, economics and security,
belief systems and security, and security and human
welfare. Finally, the course will survey major threats to
international and regional security, including emerging
threats and possible responses.
IICS 602: Introduction to Civil Security (3-0-3)Prerequisites: None
This course explores the human and natural caused
hazards, the threats they pose to society and the global
community, and current approaches to organizing the
efforts of all levels of government and the private sector to
meet the challenges of the emerging regional and global
security environment.
PHD IN ENGINEERING PROGRAM
IICS 603: Social Science Research Methods (3-0-3)Prerequisites: None
The purpose of this class is to provide students with the
foundations to successfully conduct research and analysis
in the social sciences, including international studies and
civil security. The course will also provide students with
practical skills in research and writing that they can apply
to professional activities after graduation. Both qualitative
and quantitative methods of social science inquiry are
introduced.
IICS 604: Regional Security and the Terrorist Threat (3-0-3)Prerequisites: None
This course introduces students to the violent extremism
since the early 20th century, looking first at such European
based movement as Fascism, Nazism and Communism.
The course then turn to a worldwide survey of violent
extremist movements that emerged in the post-World
War II era. After examining these movements and groups,
the course moves to an exploration of different theories
that attempt to explain the phenomenon of terrorism. The
remainder of the course focuses specifically on Islamist
extremism, looking at the emergence of radical Islamism
in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Afghanistan. The focus will
be on al-Qaeda, with an examination of its origins, its
justifications for its actions, and the international effort
to bring an end to its activities. That counterterrorism
effort involves a spectrum of responses that will be
explored: intelligence, military action, law enforcement,
economic operations, and information warfare. In Iraq
and Afghanistan, counter-terrorism was also closely
linked to counter-insurgency, which evolved into the
currently prevailing Petreus Doctrine. After looking at
counterterrorism, the course concludes with a look at
strategy that seeks to end terror primarily by eliminating its
root causes. Students, having evaluated the spectrum of
possible causes and response to Islamist extremism, will
develop a UAE 2030 counterterrorism strategy.
IICS 621: Technology and International SecurityPrerequisites: none
Technology influences security and globalization in
comprehensive political and economic terms. The problem,
however, is that the nature of the relationship between
technology and security is unclear, especially during
times of rapid and pervasive technological change. The
purpose of this seminar is to explore the ways in which
technology influences international security by examining
its political, economic, and strategic implications. This
seminar begins by examining technologies that shaped
security in the 20th century, and then shifts the discussion
to how contemporary technologies are influencing political,
economic, and military security in the 21st century.
IICS 622: Technology and Civil SecurityPrerequisites: none
Technology is pervasive in all aspects of civil security.
This course will examine technology as a threat, hazard,
vulnerability, and asset. The course will also examine
current initiatives, policies and programs to mitigate the
negative aspects of technology and how technology is
used to improve the civil security of the public and private
sectors of the UAE and the GCC.
IICS 623: Regional Security Challenges and Policy Options (3-0-3)Prerequisites: IICS 601
This course will introduce the student to current conflicts
in the Middle East/Arabian Gulf. Understanding current
conflicts requires historical context, and the course will
begin with an overview of the region’s history since the
end of World War I and the collapse of the Ottoman
Empire. The course will then turn to look at four specific
conflicts: the conflict over Israel; internal conflict and
instability in Lebanon; Iraq from the war with Iran until
the present; and the implications of Iran’s resurgence as
a regional power. All of those conflicts are shaped by a
variety of material factors, including military power and
technology; great power intervention; globalization and
economic development; geography and natural resources;
and demography and migration. After reviewing those
factors, the course will look at the ideational factors
(politics, ideology, and religion) shaping regional conflict.
Finally, The course will look at proposed solutions, both in
terms of diplomatic approaches to specific conflicts, and
broader efforts to address the roots of regional (and global)
conflict. For all of these conflicts, the role and perspective
of the UAE and other Gulf states will be considered.
IICS 624: Creating Integrated Civil Security (3-0-3)Prerequisites: IICS 602
Civil security depends on the integration of all levels of
government and society in all elements of civil security.
This course examines the roles, responsibilities, and
capabilities of the key stakeholders in civil security and the
challenges and methodologies for integrating their efforts.
IICS 625: Globalization and Middle East Security (3-0-3)Prerequisite: IICS 601
Developments in the UAE, the Arabian Gulf, and the
broader Middle East occur in the context of deepening
global integration, a phenomenon, generally referred to
as “globalization.” This course builds on its prerequisite,
IICS 601, and looks in depth at how globalization is
reshaping the security environment for the UAE and the
region, including: deepening economic interdependence,
the revolutionary integration of global media and
information systems, the global diffusion of weapons
technologies, the global reach of terrorist groups, and the
creation of a global labor force. These factors and trends
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are examined in terms of their impact on the regional
balance of interstate power, the reshaping of power within
states, political extremism, social stability, terrorism and
counterterrorism, and, overall, the challenges confronting
domestic and regional security. At the beginning of the
course, the class will read the Abu Dhabi 2030 Plan and
other future visions of prosperity in a context of peace.
The term paper will represent an exploration—in light of
the factors listed above—on how best to secure the future
security and prosperity of the UAE and the region.
IICS 626: Comparative Civil Security Systems (3-0-3)Prerequisite: IICS 602
We live in a rapidly changing security environment largely
defined by both natural and human caused disasters. The
course will examine and compare historic and current
national initiatives to protect our societies in this evolving
threat/hazard environment. Through this course, students
will gain insights into the factors that shape national and
international civil security and disaster preparedness,
prevention, response and recovery and examine the
intended and unintended consequences of these efforts.
IICS 645: Policy Analysis (3-0-3)Prerequisite: IICS 601 or IICS 602
The purpose of this class is to provide students with the
foundations to successfully conduct research and analysis
in policy-related topics, including international studies
and civil security. Methods of analysis are explored in the
context of the policy-making process. The set of “policy
options” arises from the complicated interactions among
actors in the policy process. The course will ask how policy
problems and solutions can be framed differently, looking
at a variety of case studies.
IICS 646: Intelligence and National Security (3-0-3)Prerequisites: None
Intelligence is a critical element of national and civil
security. The course examines the role of intelligence
in national policy and decision-making, the intelligence
process, and practical challenges of national intelligence
efforts.
IICS 690: Civil Infrastructure Protection Design (3-0-3)Prerequisite: IICS 601 or IICS 602, Engineering or Science
Background
Asses the key elements of civil infrastructure protection
design, including: Threat and Hazard Assessment;
Conventional and Nuclear Environments; Conventional
and Nuclear Loads on Structures; Behavior of Structural
Elements; Dynamic Response and Analysis; Connections,
Openings, Interfaces, and Internal Shock; and Structural
Systems-Behavior and Design Philosophy.
IICS 691: Nuclear Security (3-0-3)Prerequisite: IICS 601 or IICS 602, Engineering or Science
Background
Assesses the key elements of nuclear security, including:
safeguards and nonproliferation, safeguards principles
and logistics, nuclear materials accountancy methods,
accountancy and verification measurements, and
international nuclear law and the Middle East context.
IICS 692: Computer and Network Security (3-0-3)Prerequisite: IICS 601 or IICS 602, Engineering or Science
Background
Assesses the foundations of computer and network
security, including: identification and authentication,
access control, vulnerability assessment and management,
malicious codes, foundations of network security, network-
based threats and attacks, security services and security
mechanism, and network security devices and firewalls.
IICS 693: Wireless Network and Mobile Security (3-0-3)Prerequisite: IICS 692
This course presents information on wireless networks
and mobile security, including: Wireless security threats,
wireless LAN technology, wireless PAN security, mobile
security fundamentals, third generation security, E- and
M-commerce security.
IICS 694: Information Security Management (3-0-3)Prerequisite: IICS 601 or IICS 602, Engineering or Science
Background
This course presents the fundamental principles and
practices used in the management of information security,
including: the need for information security management,
management techniques, management tools and
applications, security strategy, policy and standards,
building IT security architecture.
IICS 698: Thesis Workshop (3-0-3)Prerequisite: Completion of all IICS core and track
coursework
This workshop is designed to help MA students develop
a well-crafted Master’s Thesis, sustain their research
and writing agenda throughout the dissertation process,
and learn about the academic profession as a whole.
This class requires a high level of student interaction and
engagement.
IICS 699: Master’s Thesis (1-0-9)Prerequisite: Completion of all core and track IICS
coursework Corequisites: IICS698
The Master’s Thesis is a piece of original research and
writing by the student on a problem of importance in the
field of International and Civil Security. The thesis displays
the methodological and analytical skills of the student and
their ability to engage in rigorous research and writing.
The end result should be a document of publishable
quality which is useful to the field of study. The goal is for
the student to learn skills, which he/she may utilize after
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graduation in professional duties or as a researcher.
MATHEMATICS
MATH 601: Engineering Mathematical Analysis (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: MATH 211 Linear Algebra and Differential
Equations, (or equivalent)
Introductory graduate level course in engineering
mathematical analysis. Review of vector calculus and linear
algebra; solution of ordinary differential equations; special
functions; partial differential equations of engineering
physics: linear elliptic, parabolic, and hyperbolic PDE’s
governing heat transfer, electromagnetic, and vibratory
phenomena; Eigen function expansions
MATH 602: Numerical Methods in Engineering (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: MATH 211 Linear Algebra and Differential
Equations, (or equivalent)
Introductory graduate level course in numerical methods
in engineering. Numerical integration for initial value
problems; finite difference methods; linear algebra;
optimization; and the finite element method.
MATH 603: Random Variables and Stochastic Processes (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: MATH 311 Probability and Statistics with
Discrete Mathematics, (or equivalent)
Random variables, vectors, and processes, statistical
detection and classification, principles of parameter
estimation, biased and unbiased estimators, Cramer-Rao
inequality, minimum variance and unbiased estimates,
expectation as estimation, Correlation and linear
estimation, linear filtering of random processes, discrete
time linear models, moving-average and autoregressive
processes, discrete time Gauss–Markov process,
Maximum likelihood (ML) estimation, Fourier analysis,
correlation and coherence, spectral analysis of random
signals.
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
MECH 601Advanced Thermodynamics (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: MECH 340 Thermodynamics (or equivalent)
This course provides a strong basis in the fundamentals
of classical and statistical thermodynamics. The covered
topics include: Availability and Exergy analysis, Maxwell
relations and thermodynamic properties, Psychrometrics,
kinetic theory of gases, and an introduction to statistical
thermodynamics.
MECH 602 Advanced Fluid Mechanics (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: MECH 335 Fluid Mechanics (or equivalent)
To introduce advanced concepts of fluids and fluid
mechanics, and enable the students to solve more practical
engineering problems in fluid motion. This course will
cover the formulation of the fluid flow problem, friction,
viscous flow, boundary layer theory, transition, and
incompressible and compressible flow.
MECH 603 Advanced Dynamics (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: AERO/MECH 201 Dynamics (or equivalent)
and MATH 211 Linear Algebra (or equivalent)
Dynamics of particles and rigid bodies using Newtonian
and variational methods of mechanics. Gyroscopic
mechanics, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics,
applications.
MECH 604 Introduction to Continuum Mechanics (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: MECH 421 Mechanics of Deformable Solids
(or equivalent)
The course presents an introduction to the mechanics of
continuous media, including solids and fluids. It provides
the students with the mathematical background required to
derive the equations of motion for solid and fluid continua
in compliance with the conservation principles.
MECH 605 Advanced Heat Transfer (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: 341 Heat Transfer (or equivalent)
Rigorous review of conductive, convective and radiative
heat transfer with a short extension to mass transport.
Thermal conductivity and mechanisms of energy transport.
Differential and integral form of the energy conservation
equation. Impulsive and unsteady non-isothermal flows.
Energy transport in turbulent flows. Radiation transport
with emphasis on participating media. Brief reference to
the similarities between heat and mass transfer.
MECH 610 Micro/Nanotechnology and Applications (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: MECH 325 Engineering Materials (or
equivalent), MECH 225 Mechanics of Solids (or equivalent),
and MECH 335 Fluid Mechanics (or equivalent)
This course will give an advanced survey to different
aspects of active research in micro and nanotechnology,
covering the broad area of science in micro- and nano-scale
materials. Introduction to micromachining, fundamental
properties of micro and nanotechnology such as,
mechanical, electronic, magnetic, optical, and biochemical
properties will be covered.
MECH 611 Energy Systems and Energy Conversions (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: MECH 240 Thermodynamics (or equivalent),
MECH 335 Fluid mechanics (or equivalent), and MECH 443
Heat Transfer (or equivalent)
This is a graduate level course designed to give students
an overview of conventional and non-conventional energy
conversion techniques. Basic background, terminology,
and fundamentals of energy conversion are introduced.
Current and emerging technologies for production of
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thermal, mechanical, and electrical energy are discussed;
topics include fossil and nuclear fuels, solar energy, wind
energy, fuel cells, and energy storage.
MECH 612 Control System Theory and Design (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: MECH 350 (or equivalent)
This is a fundamental graduate course on the modern
theory of dynamical systems and control. It builds on
an introductory undergraduate course in control and
emphasizes state-space techniques for the analysis of
dynamical systems and the synthesis of control laws
meeting given design specifications.
MECH 614 Advanced Manufacturing Processes (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: MECH 270 (or equivalent)
This is an advanced course in manufacturing processes
where a survey of important manufacturing processes
is presented. The course will also cover fundamentals
of machining, advanced machining processes and
microelectronics fabrication, rapid prototyping, tribology,
and some competitive aspects in manufacturing.
MECH 621 Fatigue and Fracture of Engineering Materials (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: MECH 225 Mechanics of Solids (or
equivalent) and MECH 420 Materials Strength and Fracture
(or equivalent)
This is an advanced course in fatigue and fracture of
engineering material with in-depth presentations on
fatigue, linear elastic fracture mechanics, damage
modeling, life prediction methods. It also covers fatigue
fracture of composites, as well as emerging new
engineering materials such as nanocomposites.
MECH 694 Selected Topics in Mechanical Engineering (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: Will be specified according to the particular
topics offered under this course number
This course covers selected contemporary topics in
mechanical engineering. The topics will vary from
semester to semester depending on faculty availability
and student interests. Proposed course descriptions are
considered by the Department of Mechanical Engineering
on an ad hoc basis and the course will be offered according
to demand. The proposed course content will need to be
approved by the Graduate Studies Committee. The Course
may be repeated once with change of contents to earn a
maximum of 6 credit hours.
MECH 695 Seminar in Research Methods (1-0-0)Pre-Requisite: Graduate standing
This course introduces graduate students to research
methodologies and the process of formal inquiry in
engineering and applied sciences. It develops the skills
necessary to read and critically evaluate the research
of others with emphasis on contemporary issues. The
course covers the process of developing, documenting and
presenting research proposals. It also addresses codes of
ethics in the engineering profession. Finally, the course
will provide suggestions and best practices for success in
graduate studies.
MECH 699 Master’s Thesis (0-12-12)Pre-Requisite: Completion of MSc in ME program core
courses, MECH 695 Seminar in Research Methods, and
approval of the MSc in ME program chair
In the Master’s Thesis, the student is required to
independently conduct original research under the
supervision of a full-time faculty advisor/s. The outcome
of the research work is disseminated by a thesis and
defended through a viva voce examination.
MECH 701 Advanced Solid Mechanics (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Mechanics of Deformable Solids (MECH 421),
or proof of equivalence
To provide students with the mathematical background
needed to derive and solve mathematical relations
governing the deformation of solid bodies, and to
apply these equations to the analysis of engineering
problems involving assemblies of solid bodies using
programming and advanced numerical techniques.
Topics include Tensor algebra, Stress, Strain and
deformation, Conservation principles, The second
principle of thermodynamic, Thermodynamic potentials,
Constitutive equations for deformable solids, Integration
algorithms for rate-independent plasticity, Linearization
of the constitutive equations for elastoplasticity,
Operator splits in elastoplasticity, Finite element
implementation of constitutive equations, Objective
integration for elastoplastic equations in rate form, Noise
and dissipation in mechanical systems, and Nanoscale
mechanical resonators.
MECH 702 Advanced Thermal Systems Design (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Heat Transfer (MECH 341) and
Thermodynamics & Heat Transfer Lab (MECH 440), or
proof of equivalence
To provide students a comprehensive and rigorous
introduction to thermal system design from a
contemporary perspective and includes the latest
methodologies for the design of thermal systems. Topics
covered include Introduction to Thermal System Design,
Thermodynamics, Modeling, and Design Analysis, Exergy
Analysis, Heat Transfer, Modeling, and Design Analysis,
Applications with Heat and Fluid Flow, Applications with
Thermodynamics and Heat and Fluid Flow, Economic
Analysis, Thermoeconomic Analysis and Evaluation, and
Thermoeconomic Optimization.
MECH 703 Micromechanics of Materials (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Materials: Strength and Fracture (MECH 420)
and Mechanics of Deformable Solids (MECH 421), or proof
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of equivalence
To provide students with the knowledge of
micromechanisms of materials at the atomic, single-
crystal, and polycrystal levels and their use in explaining
the deformation and failure characteristics of materials;
Specifically master the subjects of elastic deformation,
dislocation mechanics, plastic deformation and
strengthening mechanisms, as well as fracture mechanics
and fracture mechanisms, fatigue, and creep; design
criteria. Topics covered include Elastic and thermal
properties of heterogeneous materials, Micromechanics
of failure/damage, Dislocation theory, Toughening
mechanisms, Phase transformations, and Current research
topics in mechanics of materials.
MECH 704 Selected Topics in Mechanical Engineering (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Permission of instructor and approval of the
Program Chair
Selected topics in current research interests not
covered by other courses. Contents will be decided by
the instructor and approved by the Graduate Studies
Committee. The Course may be repeated once with
change of contents to earn a maximum of 8 credit-hours.
NUCLEAR ENGINEERING
NUCE301 Radiation Science and Health Physics (3-0-3)Pre-Requisites: PHYS 102 General Physics II or equivalent;
MATH 206 Differential Equations and Applications or
equivalent
Co-Requisites: NUCE302 Applied Mathematics for Nuclear
Engineering (only required if it is to replace the pre-
requisite of MATH 206)
This course provide students with a thorough
understanding of nuclear and radiation science, including
radiation shielding, as a foundation to understanding the
theoretical and practical aspects of radiological protection
and a working knowledge of radiation protection legislation.
Topics include Introduction to Atomic and nuclear; Nuclear
physics; Radioactivity; Nuclear reactions; Interaction of
radiation with matter; Radiation detection; Introduction to
radiological protection; radiation dose, legislation; External
dosimetry; Radiation monitoring; Personal dosimetry;
Accident response.
NUCE 302 Applied Mathematics for Nuclear Engineering (3-0-3)Pre-Requisites: MATH 106 Calculus II or equivalent; MATH
204 Linear Algebra or equivalent
This course recaps some of the undergraduate
mathematics materials relevant to the advanced
graduate courses. Furthermore, basic introductory
material for the numerical analysis will be also provided
to the students. Topics include Differentiation &
Integration; Ordinary Differential Equation; Vector
Calculus; Partial Differential Equation; Introduction to
Numerical Analysis; Probability; Statistics.
NUCE 303 Engineering Principles for Nuclear Engineering (3-0-3)Pre-Requisites: PHYS 101 General Physics or equivalent;
MATH 201 Calculus III or equivalent
Co-Requisites: NUCE 302 Applied Mathematics for Nuclear
Engineering (only required if it is to replace the pre-
requisite of MATH 201)
The course provides students with a thorough
understanding of principles of various engineering
concepts. Topics include Review of Classical Mechanics;
Review of Solid Mechanics; Materials Fundamental;
Deformation and mechanical properties; Review on
Thermodynamics; Fluid Properties and Thermodynamic
Devices; Three Modes of heat transfer; Introduction to
turbulent flow.
NUCE401 Introduction to Nuclear Reactor Physics(3-0-3)Pre-Requisites: MECH 341 Heat Transfer or equivalent
Co-Requisites: NUCE 301 Radiation Science and Health
Physics or equivalent; NUCE 303 Engineering Principles
for Nuclear Engineering (only required if it is to replace the
pre-requisite of MECH 341)
The course provides the students with the basic
understanding of nuclear reactor physics and the
fundamental principles and practical applications related to
the utilization of nuclear energy from fission. Topics include
Introduction to Nuclear Reactors, Power Plant System
and Components; Neutron Interactions; Fission Reaction;
Nuclear Reactors; Neutron Diffusion; Reactor Theory;
Kinetics; Multimedia Exercises.
NUCE 601 Thermal Hydraulics in Nuclear Systems(3-0-3)Prerequisites: NUCE 302, NUCE303, NUCE 401 or
equivalent
This course provides the basic principles of nuclear
system thermal hydraulics, and cover from advanced
single phase fluid mechanics and heat transfer relevant
to nuclear system to basic two phase flow principles and
modeling. Topics include thermal hydraulic characteristics
of power reactors, thermal design principles, reactor
heat generation, thermodynamics of nuclear energy
conversion, thermal analysis of fuel elements, review of
single phase flow, transport equations for two phase flow,
two phase flow dynamics, two phase heat transfer, single
channel analysis.
NUCE 602 Nuclear Materials, Structural Integrity and Chemistry (3-0-3)
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Prerequisites: NUCE303 or equivalent
This course provides an understanding of the materials
behaviors in nuclear power plant environments including
identification of the key aging mechanisms of alloys and
components in relation to the operating environments;
How to assess the integrity of key components using
fracture mechanics; An understanding of the role of
water chemistry in managing the materials aging on light
water reactors. Topics include failure of materials and
structures, micro-structural aspects of failure, corrosion,
environmentally assisted cracking, low allow steels,
stainless steels, nickel alloys, non-destructive evaluation,
fracture mechanics, flaw analysis, PWR primary water
chemistry and secondary system chemistry.
NUCE 603 Nuclear Reactor Theory (3-0-3)Prerequisites: NUCE301, NUCE401 or equivalent
This course provides a principled understanding of the
reactor physics theory and practice involved in the design
of nuclear reactors and applications in related areas.
Topics include neutron transport, numerical solutions
of the diffusion equation, multi- group diffusion theory,
the treatment of resonance, reactor kinetics including
numerical exercises, elements of the Monte Carlo method
in reactor analysis and modeling exercises using various
reactor codes.
NUCE 604 Radiation Measurements and Applications (2-0-2)Prerequisites: NUCE301, NUCE401 or equivalent.
This course provides with a theoretical understanding
of radiation detection and measurements and its
applications in measurements and analysis. Topics
include a review of radiation interactions and the physical
principles of detection and measurements, pulse
processing electronics, uncertainty and error analysis in
measurements, gas filled detectors, scintillation detectors,
semiconductor detector principles, Ge and Si detectors in
spectroscopy, neutron detectors, applications in reactor
instrumentation, dosimetry, security and safeguards and
neutron activation analysis.
NUCE 605 Radiation Measurements and Applications Laboratory (0-3-1)Prerequisites: NUCE301, NUCE401 or equivalent. Co-
requisite: NUCE604
This course provides a practical ability in radiation detection
and measurements and the application of techniques to
specific requirements in the nuclear related industries. The
course consists of 7 three hour laboratory classes with
associated time to produce structured laboratory reports.
Labs I and II cover electronics and pulse analysis, detector
and radiation characteristics, and counting statistics. Lab
III covers gamma- ray spectroscopy with NaI(Tl) detectors.
Lab IV covers alpha and beta spectroscopy with Si charged
particle detectors. Lab V covers high resolution gamma
spectroscopy using HPGe detectors. Lab VI covers neutron
detection instrumentation and gamma discrimination and
Lav VII covers neutron activation analysis.
NUCE 611 Nuclear Systems Design and Analysis (3-0-3)Prerequisites: NUCE601, NUCE602, NUCE603, NUCE604,
and NUCE605
Co-requisite: NUCE612
This course provides the fundamentals of nuclear systems
design, including design aspects of critical individual
components as well as the balance of plant and to provide
the basis for analysis on thermodynamic principles. Topics
include a review of engineering design principles, the
design and analysis of reactor cores, the steam generators,
the pressurizer, the coolant pumps, the turbine and finally,
the design and analysis of the balance of plant.
NUCE 612 Nuclear Safety and Probabilistic Safety Assessment (3-0-3)Prerequisites: NUCE601, NUCE602, NUCE603, NUCE604,
and NUCE605
Co-requisite: NUCE611
This course provides sufficient knowledge of the
requirements and principles of nuclear safety regulation
and safety justification to ensure safe operation and
supervision of the reactor plant and provide advice
to Management. The course also provides the basic
requirements of a Probabilistic Safety Assessment (PSA),
and to perform, and interpret the results of Level 2 and
Level 3 Probabilistic Safety Assessment (PSA) for a reactor
plant. The course covers all aspects of the Safety Analysis
Report (SAR), regulation and licensing, HAZID, FEMA,
HAZOP, reliability and risk analysis, PSA Level 2 and 3.
NUCE 613 Nuclear Fuel Cycle (3-0-3)Prerequisites: NUCE601, NUCE602, NUCE603, NUCE604,
and NUCE605
Co-requisite: NUCE614
This course provides the main facts of the nuclear fuel
cycles and to cover the entire range of processes from
ore in the ground to recycled products and wastes ready
for final disposal . Topics cover an overview of the fuel
cycle, nuclear fuel resources, mining and milling of
uranium ore, isotopic enrichment, uranium conversion
and fuel fabrication, sources of radiation from fuel,
classification of radioactive waste, transport and storage
of spent fuel, reprocessing and recyclingo f irradiated fuel,
treatment of low and high level waste, decontamination
and decommissioning, environmental impact of nuclear
reactors and the economics of the fuel cycle.
NUCE 614 Nuclear Security and Safeguards (3-0-3)Prerequisites: NUCE601, NUCE602, NUCE603, NUCE604,
and NUCE605
Co-requisite: NUCE613
PHD IN ENGINEERING PROGRAM
This course provides the key elements of nuclear security,
safeguards and non proliferation, including describing the
logistics, accountancy methodologies and protocols in this
subject area. Topics include an overview of the subject
area, the principles and logistics of safeguards, nuclear
materials accountancy, accountancy and verification
measurements, integrated safeguards (protocols,
cyber security etc), international nuclear law, statistical
accountancy, analytical methods, the middle east context
and applications of security and safeguards.
NUCE 621 Nuclear Instrumentation and Control (3-0-3)Prerequisites: NUCE601, NUCE602, NUCE603, NUCE604,
and NUCE605
This course provides an understanding of the design
and analysis of nuclear power plant instrumentation and
control systems with the knowledge on instrumentation
and sensor theory and various process control techniques
.nuclear power plant protection systems. Topics include
an overview of I&C, static and dynamic characteristics of
I&C, fundamentals of signal processing, fundamentals of
sensors, modern control theory, lead and lag compensators
and PID controls, fundamentals of nuclear reactor
dynamics and control, I&C systems, nuclear power plant
instrumentation and control systems and nuclear power
plant protection systems.
NUCE 622 Advanced Thermal Hydraulics (3-0-3)Prerequisites: NUCE601, NUCE602, NUCE603, NUCE604,
and NUCE605
This course provides sufficient background on flow
regimes and heat transfer for single and multi-phase flows,
the modeling approaches used, empirical treatments
for two- phase flows and sources of errors in numerical
predictions. The computer laboratories allow for the
student to apply the theory part and to gain hands on how
to produce meaningful results with existing commercial
codes by following the correct steps in Pre- processing,
computation, Post-processing and results analysis.
NUCE 623 Radiological Environmental Impact Assessment (3-0-3)Prerequisites: NUCE601, NUCE602, NUCE603, NUCE604,
and NUCE605
This course provides a an overview of the regulatory
requirements applicable to radioactive discharges and
associated Radiological Environmental Impact Assessment
(REIA), an understanding of the physical and chemical
processes which determine the behavior of radionuclides
released into the environment and experience in the
application of state- of-the art methodologies for REIA.
Topics include guidelines, exposure, dispersion and
migration of radioonuclides, radiation pathways and
environmental pathway modeling.
NUCE 624 Radiation Damage and Nuclear Fuels (3-0-3)Prerequisites: NUCE601, NUCE602, NUCE603, NUCE604,
and NUCE605
This course provides the knowledge on the characteristics
of various type of fuels and their required properties, an
understand the fundamentals of radiation damage and
their effects on the changes of the materials properties
through the interaction of various defects generated by
irradiation, identification of the key damage mechanisms
of oxide nuclear fuels and zircalloy cladding in water
reactor environments and knowhow to assess the
integrity of nuclear fuel affected by the various damage
mechanisms. Topics include overview on types of nuclear
fuel, basics of radiation damage, ion interactions with
solids, displacement cascades, point defect characteristics,
multi-dimensional defects in solids, interaction of defects,
dimensional changes, property changes due to irradiation,
radiation damage in fuels and fuel cladding integrity.
NUCE 631 MSc in Nuclear Engineering Thesis (12-0-12)Prerequisites: Completion of MSc in Nuclear Engineering
program core courses and approval of the MSc in Nuclear
Engineering program chair.
Each student will undertake a major individual thesis
work in the area of Nuclear Engineering. The student
will demonstrate a high level of understanding and
specialization in the thesis area by undertaking a specific
item of research. Each student will develop their
thesis work schedule, technical writing, and technical
presentation skills by delivering three documentations
and presentations as follows: Thesis Proposal and Initial
Presentation, Progress Report and Interim Presentation,
and Thesis and Final Presentation.
NUCE 701 Advanced Computational Methods of Particle Transport (4-0-4)Prerequisite: NUCE 601, NUCE 602, NUCE 603, NUCE
604, and NUCE 605, or equivalent
The course discusses neutral particle interactions and
related cross sections, Linear Boltzmann equation
in forward and adjoint forms and their applications,
perturbation and variational techniques for particle transport
problems, different numerical methods for solving the
linear Boltzmann equation and limitations of these methods
for solving real-life problems. This course also introduces
the Monte Carlo techniques and their applications in
solving particle transport problems. The Monte Carlo
concepts discussed are: random processes, random
number generation techniques, fundamental formulation
of Monte Carlo, sampling procedures, and fundamentals of
probability and statistics, non-analog Monte Carlo method,
formulations for different variance reduction techniques,
and tallying procedures. This course also introduces the
students to neutron transport computer codes (stochastic
and deterministic) and their application in nuclear reactor
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core and shielding design.
NUCE 702 Environmental Protection, Detection and Biokinetics (3-1-4)Prerequisite: NUCE 301, NUCE 604/605 and NUCE 623 or
equivalent
This course will help the student build up/enhance their
existing knowledge in nuclear physics, radiation physics,
as well as the physics of detection and measurements. In
this course, the student will explore and investigate the
types of radiation that may be present in the human body,
in food, and in the environment, and will research novel
methods in detecting them.
The student will use the state of the art radiation
equipment/detectors present in the laboratories to analyze
data collected from environmental samples, be it land,
water or air and to try to establish systematical methods
to analyze them. The student will be introduced to models
that assist in the study and understanding of the radiation
passage, behavior, preference, retention, and clearance, in
different parts of the human body and will be encouraged
to build his/her model to emulate the biokinetics of
radiation in the body.
NUCE 703 Aging Management of Nuclear Materials (3-1-4)Prerequisite: NUCE 602 or equivalent
This course provides an understanding of material aging
and degradation in nuclear power plant environments:
General and localized corrosion of metallic and concrete
structures; Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) of the primary
and secondary components; Irradiation assisted stress
corrosion cracking (IASCC) of reactor vessel internals;
Radiation embrittlement of reactor vessel. The proposed
degradation mechanisms and mechanical, material, and
environmental factors controlling the aging and degradation
will be presented. Considering the previous operation
experience in other nuclear power plants, the aging
management of APR 1400 nuclear plants over the design
life is discussed.
NUCE 704 Selected Topics in Nuclear Engineering(3-1-4)Prerequisite: NUCE601, NUCE602, NUCE603, NUCE604,
and NUCE605, or equivalent
This course provide students with practical knowledge of
the requirements and principles of nuclear safety regulation
and safety justification to ensure safe operation and
supervision of the reactor plant through safety analysis
report (design control document). Nuclear Power Plant
has various safety issues with many components. Design
Control Documents covers most of the safety issues. This
course consist of seven selected safety topics which are
reactor physics, thermodynamics, I&C, reactor system,
severe accident, material and radiation safety. All nuclear
engineering faculty will teach this course according to their
expertise in each topic.
ROBOTICS
ROBO 633 Machine Vision and Image Understanding (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: MATH 312 Complex Variables and
Transforms (or equivalent), ENGR 112 Introduction to
Computing (or equivalent), and ELCE 302 Signal Processing
(or equivalent)
The course covers the fundamental principles of machine
vision and image processing techniques. This includes
multiple view geometry and probabilistic techniques as
related to applications in the scope of robotic and machine
vision and image processing by introducing concepts such
as segmentation and grouping, matching, classification and
recognition, and motion estimation.
ROBO 650 Autonomous Robotic Systems (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: MATH 312 Complex variables and
Transforms (or equivalent), ENGR 112 Introduction to
Computing (or equivalent), and AERO 350 Dynamic
Systems and Control, or ELCE 344 Feedback Control
Systems, or MECH 350 Dynamic Systems and Control (or
equivalent)
The course addresses some of the main aspects of
autonomous robotic systems. This includes artificial
intelligence, algorithms, and robotics for the design
and practice of intelligent robotic systems. Planning
algorithms in the presence of kinematic and dynamic
constraints, and integration of sensory data will also be
discussed.
ROBO 651 Modeling and Control of Robotic Systems (3-0-3)Pre-Requisite: MATH 312 Complex variables and
Transforms (or equivalent), ENGR 112 Introduction to
Computing (or equivalent), and AERO 350 Dynamic
Systems and Control, or ELCE 344 Feedback Control
Systems, or MECH 350 Dynamic Systems and Control (or
equivalent)
The course covers the theory and practice of the modeling
and control of robotic devices. This includes kinematics,
statics and dynamics of robots. Impedance control and
robot programming will also be covered. Different case-
studies will be presented to support hands-on experiments.
ROBO 701 Control of Robotic Systems (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Engineering Mathematics and Computation.
To provide a fundamental basis for advanced practice and
for research in the modelling and control of robotic devices.
To enable students to learn and apply advanced concepts
of robot control through self-study of the relevant literature.
Topics covered include Basic concepts and tools for the
analysis, design, and control of robotic mechanisms,
Kinematics, statics and dynamics of robotic Systems,
PHD IN ENGINEERING PROGRAM
Trajectory planning based on mechanics, and Control of
robotic systems.
ROBO 702 Cognitive Robotics (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Engineering Mathematics and Computation
To provide students with an advanced treatment of
autonomous systems, how cognitive systems acquire
information about the external world through learning
and association of interrelationships between the
observed world and their contextual frames. To learn how
robotics cognitive systems can be designed to produce
appropriate responses that make them more intelligent
and autonomous. Topics covered include Introduction to
Cognitive Robotics, Robot Navigation, Representation
of 3D Space and Sensor Modeling within Probabilistic
Framework, Probabilistic Modelling for Robotic Perception,
and Sensing and Mapping.
ROBO 703 Robotic Perception (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Engineering Mathematics, Computation and
Signal Processing Fundamentals
To provide students with knowledge in the principles and
practices of quantitative perception for robotic devices.
To study both sensing devices and algorithms that
emulates perception and intelligent systems. Learn to
critically examine the sensing requirements of typical real
world robotic applications. To acquire competences for
development of computational models for autonomous
robotic systems. Topics covered include Perception
Processes and Sensor Technologies, Sensor Sensing,
Sensor, Representations and 3D Mapping, Vision and
Geometric Models for Image Formation, Monocular,
Multi-ocular Image Geometry and 3D Vision, Visual
Segmentation and Image Analysis, Perception and
Computation of 2D and 3D Motion, Haptic Systems and
Applications, Biological Basics of Haptic Perception,
Internal Structure of Haptic Systems, Control of Haptic
Systems, and Kinematic Design of Haptic Systems.
ROBO 704 Selected Topics in Robotics (4-0-4)Prerequisite: Permission of instructor and approval of the
Program Chair
Selected topics in current research interests not
covered by other courses. Contents will be decided by
the instructor and approved by the Graduate Studies
Committee. The Course may be repeated once with
change of contents to earn a maximum of 8 credit-hours.
110 111
Full-timeFaculty andAcademicStaff
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
112 113
AABOSALEM, YOUSEF, M.Sc., Jordan University, Jordan,
1994; Lecturer in Mathematics.
ABUALHAOL, IBRAHIM, Ph.D., University of Mississippi,
USA, 2008; Assistant Professor of Communication
Engineering.
ABU SHAMALEH, TAGHREED, M.Sc., National Center
for Plasma Science and Technology (NCPST), Dublin City
University (DCU), Ireland, 2010; Lecturer in Physics.
ADDAD, YACINE, Ph.D., University of Manchester, UK,
2005; Assistant Professor of Nuclear Engineering.
AHMED, MOHAMED WAGIALLA, Ph.D., University of
Mississippi USA. 1994; Associate Professor of Arabic and
Islamic Studies.
AJHAR, HAKIM, Ph.D., McGill University, Canada, 2000;
Assistant Professor of Islamic Studies and Humanities.
AL-AHMAD, HUSSAIN, Ph.D., University of Leeds, UK,
1984; Professor of Electronic Engineering.
AL-ARAJI, SALEH, Ph.D., University of Wales-Swansea,
UK, 1972; Professor of Communication Engineering.
ALAZZAM, ANAS, Ph.D., Concordia University, Montreal,
Canada, 2010; Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering
AL-DWEIK, ARAFAT, Ph.D., Cleveland State University,
USA, 2001; Associate Professor of Communication
Engineering.
AL-HAMMADI, YOUSOF, Ph.D., The University of
Nottingham, UK, 2010; Assistant Professor of Computer
Engineering.
AL-HOMOUZ, DIRAR, Ph.D., University of Houston, USA,
2007; Assistant Professor of Physics.
AL-KHATEEB, ASHRAF, Ph.D., University of Notre Dame,
USA, 2010; Assistant Professor of Aerospace Engineering.
AL-MUALLA, MOHAMMED, Ph.D. University of
Bristol, UK, 2000; Senior Vice President, Research and
Development and Interim Provost.
AL-MUHAIRI, HASSAN, Ph.D., University of Essex, UK,
2010; Assistant Professor of Computer Engineering.
AL-SAFAR, HABIBA, Ph.D., University of Western
Australia, Australia, 2011; Assistant Professor of
Biomedical Engineering.
AL-SAMAHI , SAMER, Ph.D., Newcastle University, UK,
2010; Assistant Professor of Computer Engineering.
AL-QUTAYRI, MAHMOUD, Ph.D., University of Bath, UK,
1992; Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Professor
of Electrical & Computer Engineering.
ALI, NAZAR THAMER, Ph.D., University of Bradford, UK,
1991; Associate Professor of Electronic Engineering.
ARNESEN, INGRID, M.A., TESOL, SUNY Stony Brook,
USA,1980; MA English, UC Davis, CA, USA; 1982; Senior
Lecturer in English.
BBAEK, JOON SANG, Ph.D., Monash University, Australia,
2004; Assistant Professor of Information Security.
BALAWI, SHADI, Ph.D., University of Cincinnati, USA,
2007; Assistant Professor of Aerospace Engineering.
BALINT, DENNIS, Ed.D., Temple University, USA, 2010;
Assistant Professor of English.
BARADA, HASSAN, Ph.D., Louisiana State University,
USA, 1989; Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies and
Professor of Electrical & Computer Engineering.
BAWA’ANEH, MUHAMMAD, Ph.D., University of Essex,
UK, 1999; Assistant Professor of Physics.
BAZZI, EMAD, Ph.D., University of Sydney, Australia,
2003; Assistant Professor of Arabic and Islamic Studies.
BEELEY, PHILIP, Ph.D., McGill University, Canada, 1981;
Professor of Practice and Program Chair, Nuclear Engineering.
BENTIBA, AHMED, M.Sc., University of Moncton, Canada
1989; Senior Lecturer in Computer Engineering.
BHASKAR, HARISH, Ph.D., Loughborough University, UK,
2007; Assistant Professor of Computer Engineering.
BSOUL, LABEEB, Ph.D., McGill University, Canada, 2003;
Associate Professor of Arabic and Islamic Studies.
BURNS, PHYLLIS, M.A., Glasgow University, UK, 1975;
Senior Lecturer in English.
BURTON, THOMAS, Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania,
USA, 1967; Professor and Chair Aerospace Engineering.
BYON, YOUNG-JI, Ph.D., University of Toronto, Canada,
2011; Assistant Professor of Civil Infrastructure and
Environmental Engineering.
CCHARLES, LORRAINE, M.A., Staffordshire University, UK,
2009; Lecturer in English.
CHENG, DENIS, M.A, TEFL/TESL, 1980, M.A.,
Instructional Design and Technologies, 1999, San Francisco
State University, USA; Senior Lecturer in English.
CHRISTOFOROU, NICOLAS, Ph.D., Duke University,
Durham NC, USA, 2005; Assistant Professor of Biomedical
Engineering.
CHO, NAM ZIN, Ph.D., University of California, Berkeley,
USA, 1980; Professor of Nuclear Engineering.
DDAWOOD, ALI, Ph.D., University of Essex, UK, 1999;
Associate Professor of Communication Engineering.
DIAS, JORGE, Ph.D., University of Coimbra, Portugal, 1994;
Professor of Robotics and Electrical and Computer Engineering.
FULL-TIME FACULTY ANDACADEMIC STAFF
EEL-KHASAWNEH, BASHAR, Ph.D., University of Illinois
at Urbana-Champaign, 1998, USA; Associate Professor of
Practice in Mechanical Engineering
EL-KHAZALI, REYAD, Ph.D., Purdue University, USA,
1992; Associate Professor of Electronic Engineering.
EL-KORK, NAYLA, Ph.D., Universite de Lyon, France,
2009; Assistant Professor of Physics.
EL-NAGGAR, MOHAMMED ISMAIL, Ph.D., University
of Manitoba, Canada, 1983; Professor of Electronics;
Chair of Electronic and Computer Engineering; Director of
Semiconductor Research Center, Abu Dhabi.
ELSAWI, MOHAMED, Ph.D., University of Texas, Austin,
USA, 2001; Assistant Professor of Nuclear Engineering.
ELAYNE, IMAD, M.Sc., University of Texas at San
Antonio,USA, 2002; Lecturer in Mathematics.
FFREIMUTH, HILDA, M.A., University of Southern
Queensland, Australia, 2006; Senior Lecturer in English.
GGAN, DONGMING, Ph.D., Beijing University of Posts and
Telecommunications, China, 2009; Postdoctoral Fellow:
Robotics.
GAWANMEH, AMJAD, Ph.D., Concordia University,
Canada, 2008; Assistant Professor of Computer
Engineering.
GUNDUZ, MUSTAFA, Ph.D., Georgia Institute of
Technology, USA, 2010; Postdoctoral Fellow: Aerospace
Engineering.
HHALL, KATHERINE, Ph.D., Virginia Tech, USA, 2001;
Assistant Professor of English.
HASSAN, JAMAL, Ph.D., University of Waterloo, Canada,
2006; Assistant Professor of Physics.
HITT, GEORGE W., Ph.D., Michigan State University, USA,
2009; Assistant Professor of Physics.
HOLLIDAY, LUCIA, M.Ed., University of Maryland, College
Park, USA, 2003, Lecturer in English.
IIRAQI, YOUSSEF, Ph.D., Universite’ de Montreal, Canada,
2003; Associate Professor of Computer Engineering.
ISAKOVIC, ABDEL, Ph.D., University of Minnesota, USA,
2003; Associate Professor of Physics.
JJAYARAMAN, RAJA, Ph.D., Texas Tech University,
USA, 2008; Assistant Professor of Industrial and Systems
Engineering.
JEONG, YONG HOON, Ph.D., Korea Advanced Institute of
Science and Technology , Korea, 2003; Assistant Professor
of Nuclear Engineering.
JEONG, YOUNG-SEON, Ph.D., Rutgers University,
Piscataway, USA, 2011; Postdoctoral Fellow of Industrial
and Systems Engineering.
JIMAA, SHIHAB, Ph.D., Loughborough University, UK,
1989; Associate Professor of Communication Engineering.
KKANG, HYUN GOOK, Ph.D., Korea Advanced Institute of
Science and Technology, Korea, 1999; Assistant Professor
of Nuclear Engineering.
KARA, KURSAT, Ph.D., Old Dominion University,
Norfolk, VA, USA, 2008; Assistant Professor of Aerospace
Engineering.
KARA, MUALLA, M.Sc., Marmara University, Turkey,
2004; Lecturer in Chemistry.
KHALAF, KINDA, Ph.D., Ohio State University, USA, 1998;
Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering.
KHAN, FAISAL, Ph.D., Portland State University, USA,
2009; Assistant Professor of Mathematics.
KHAN, TAUFIQUAR, Ph.D., University of Southern
California, USA, 2000; Associate Professor of Mathematics.
KHANDOKTER, AHSAN, Ph.D., Muroran Institute
of Technology, Japan, 2004; Assistant Professor of
Biomedical Engineering.
KIBURZ, CLAUDIA, M.Sc., (TESOL), State University of
New York, University Centre at Albany,USA, 1992; Lecturer
in English.
KIM, BYUNG KOO, Ph.D., California Institute of Technology,
USA, 1972; Senior Research Fellow, Nuclear Engineering.
KNIGHT, GILLIAN, B.A.(Honours),Exeter University, UK,
1976; Senior Lecturer in English.
KNOWLING, JEFFREY, M.A., Applied Linguistics,
Northeastern Illinois University, USA, 1997; Senior Lecturer
in English.
KONG, PENG-YONG, Ph.D., National University of
Singapore, Singapore, 2002; Assistant Professor of
Electrical and Computer Engineering.
LLAURSEN, TOD A., Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering,
Stanford University, USA, 1992; Professor of Mechanical
Engineering and President.
LEE, SUNG MUN, Ph.D., Texas A & M University, USA,
2005; Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering.
LESEELLEUR, THOMAS PATRICK, PGCE - University of
Sunderland, UK, 2006; Senior Lecturer in English.
LI, YUANQING, Ph.D., Technical Institute of Physics and
Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China, 2007;
Postdoctoral Fellow: Aerospace Engineering.
LIAO, KIN, Ph.D., Virginia Tech University, USA, 1995;
Professor of Aerospace Engineering.
KHALIFA UNIVERSITY | GRADUATE CATALOG
114 115
LUCERO-BRYAN, Joel, Ph.D., New Mexico State
University, USA, 2010; Assistant Professor of
Mathematics.
MMAALOUF, MAHER, Ph.D., University of Oklahoma –
Norman, USA, 2009; Assistant Professor of Industrial and
Systems Engineering.
MALKAWI, ABEER, M.Sc., University of Jordan, Jordan,
2000; Lecturer in Computer Science.
MARTIN, THOMAS, Ph.D., Royal Holloway, University of
London, UK, 2004; Assistant Professor of Cryptography.
MEBARKI, RAFIK, Ph.D., IRISA/INRIA Rennes, France,
2010; Postdoctoral Fellow: Robotics.
MEZHER, KAHTAN, Ph.D., University of Bradford, UK,
1992; Associate Professor of Electronic Engineering.
MIZOUNI, RABEB, Ph.D., Concordia University, Canada,
2007; Assistant Professor of Software Engineering.
MOHAMMAD, BAKER, University Of Texas at Austin,
USA, 2008; Associate Professor of Electronic Engineering.
MOORE, NICOLAS, Ph.D., University of Liverpool, UK,
2010; Senior Lecturer in English and Humanities.
MORAN, VALENTINE, M.A., University of East Anglia, UK,
1989; Senior Lecturer in English.
MUBARAK, KHALED, Ph.D., Colorado State University,
USA, 2003; Associate Professor of Communication
Engineering.
MUGHRABI, ASMA, M.Sc., University of Jordan, 2005;
Lecturer in Mathematics.
MUHAIDAT, SAMI, Ph.D., University of Waterloo, Canada,
2006; Associate Professor of Communication Engineering
NNO, HEE CHEON, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of
Technology, USA, 1983; Professor of Nuclear Engineering.
OOLIMAT, MUHAMAD, Ph.D., University of North Texas,
USA, 1996; Associate Professor of International and Civil
Security.
OSTROWSKA, SABINA, M.A., University of Nijmegen,
The Netherlands, 2003; Lecturer in English.
OTROK, HADI, Ph.D., Concordia University, Canada, 2008;
Associate Professor of Computer Engineering.
PPENG-YONG KONG, PhD., National University of
Singapore, Singapore, 2002; Assistant Professor: Electrical
& Computer Engineering.
PHOENIX, SIMON, Ph.D., Imperial College, London, UK,
1990; Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer
Engineering.
QQATTAN, ISSAM, Ph.D., Northwestern University, USA,
2005; Associate Professor of Physics.
RREZEQ, MOHAMMED, Ph.D., University of Ottawa,
Canada, 2002; Assistant Professor of Physics.
RODRÍGUEZ-MARTÍNEZ, Alejandro, Ph.D., Universidad de
Sevilla, Spain, 2007; Assistant Professor of Mathematics.
ROSS, JULIE MARIE, M.Ed. University of Southern
Queensland, Australia, 2003; Senior Lecturer in English.
SSALAH, KHALED, Ph.D., Illinois Institute of
Technology,USA, 2000; Associate Professor of Computer
Engineering
SALEH, HANI, Ph.D., University of Texas at Austin, USA,
2009; Assistant Pofessor of Electronic and Computer
Engineering
SEMPEK, BENJAMIN, M.A., The University of Northern
Iowa, USA, 1996; Senior Lecturer in English.
SENEVIRATNE, LAKMAL, Ph.D., Kings College, London,
UK,1985;Associate Provost for Research and Graduate
Studies and Professor of Mechanical Engineering.
SHARIF, BAYAN, Ph.D. University of Ulster, N. Ireland,
1988,; Dean and Professor, College of Engineering.
SHOUFAN, ABDULHADI, Ph.D., Technische Universitaet
Darmstadt, Germany, 2007; Assistant Professor ECE and
Information Security.
SHUBAIR, RAED, Ph.D., University of Waterloo, Canada,
1993; Professor of Communication Engineering.
SINGH, SHAKTI, Ph.D., Purdue University, USA, 2010;
Assistant Professor of Electronic Engineering.
SIVASANKARAN, ANOOP, Ph.D., Glasgow Caledonian
University, UK, 2010; Assistant Professor of Mathematics
SLUZEK, ANDRZEJ; Warsaw University of Technology,
Poland, 1990; Associate Professor of Electrical and
Computer Engineering.
TTAHA, KAMAL, Ph.D. University of Texas at Arlington,
USA, 2010; Assistant Professor of Software Engineering.
TEO, JEREMY, Ph.D., National University of Singapore,
Singapore, 2008; Assistant Professor of Biomedical
Engineering
THORNE, CHRISTINE, M.A., Bangor University, North
Wales, UK, 1991; Senior Lecturer in English.
UUMER, REHAN, Ph.D., University of Auckland, New
Zealand, 2008; Assistant Professor of Aerospace Engineering.
FULL-TIME FACULTY AND ACADEMIC STAFF
VVALLERY, HEIKE, Ph.D., Technische Universität München
(TUM), Munich, Germany, 2009; Assistant Professor of
Biomedical Engineering.
VESTRI, ELENA, M.A., University of South Florida, USA,
1989; Senior Lecturer in English.
WWERGHI, NAOUFEL, Ph.D., University of Strasbourg,
France, 1996; Associate Professor of Computer Engineering.
WERUAGA, LUIS, Ph.D., Polytechnic University of Madrid,
Spain, 1994, Associate Professor of Electronic Engineering.
YYAPICI, MURAT KAYA, Ph.D., Texas A&M University-
College Station, TX, USA, 2009; Assistant Professor of
Electronic Engineering.
YEUN, CHAN YEOB, Ph.D., Royal Holloway, University
of London, UK, 2000; Assistant Professor of Computer
Engineering.
YI, YONGSUN, Ph.D., Tohoku University, Japan, 1995;
Assistant Professor of Nuclear Engineering.
YOON, HO JOON, Ph.D., KAIST, Korea, 2010; Postdoctoral
Fellow: Nuclear Engineering.
ZZAKI, RACHAD, Ph.D., Pierre et Marie Curie University,
France, 2007; Assistant Professor of Mathematics.
ZAKI, WAEL, Ph.D., Ecole Polytechnique, Paris, France,
2006; Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering.
ZEMERLY, MOHAMED-JAMAL, Ph.D., University of
Birmingham, UK, 1989; Associate Professor of Computer
Engineering.