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GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS
UAEU offers a diverse set of graduate degree programs at the Master’s and doctorate levels. Although the main
campus in Al Ain is the primary venue for offering the graduate programs, some of the professional programs are also
conveniently offered at off-campus facilities such as in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Types of Programs
Master’s Programs
Master’s degree programs in many discipline areas are offered by the academic departments in the colleges. There
are two types of Master’s programs: Professional and Academic (i.e., research-based). All programs require a minimum
of 30 credits and the completion of a research thesis or a major project. Enrollment in Master’s programs may be on
full-time or part-time basis. However, some restrictions might apply in some programs.
Professional Doctorate Programs
A professional Doctorate program is advanced studies beyond the Master’s degree. It requires coursework and
independent research. The emphasis of the professional Doctorate degree is on research skills and advanced
professional knowledge in an applied field of specialization. Students generally pursue professional Doctorate programs
on full-time basis. However, some programs might permit part-time enrollment.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Program
According to the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA), of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific
Research of the UAE, the PhD program is an academic doctorate degree program that requires coursework beyond
the Master’s degree and academic research. The PhD degree is awarded in recognition of high quality academic
research that represents original contribution to human knowledge that is represented in a research dissertation of a
publishable standard. The PhD program requires a residency period of full-time enrollment for a minimum of three years.