EXECUTIVE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
Advanced Computing, Data-Enabled Intelligent Engineering Science, and Operations Research
The Executive PhD integrates advanced computing, intelligent engineering, and operations research to develop scholar-practitioners who lead applied research, drive innovation, and solve complex problems across global industries.
Next Start Date
On demand
Admissions Deadline
No Deadline
Program Code
FASASCDOCP01
Units
Min. 120.0 GSCH
Methods of Delivery
On-campus, Online
Modes of Study
¾-time
Academic Unit
Faculty of Arts and Sciences
American School of Science
Expected Length
On-Campus Teaching (Live Scheduled Sessions at ¾-Time Pace)
3.0 Years
Blended Online Learning (Live Scheduled Sessions with Self-Paced, Competency-Based Learning)
3.0 Years
Last Update
December 27, 2024
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EXECUTIVE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
Advanced Computing, Data-Enabled Intelligent Engineering Science, and Operations Research
The Executive Doctor of Philosophy (Executive PhD) in Advanced Computing, Data-Enabled Intelligent Engineering Science, and Operations Research is a terminal research doctorate designed for accomplished professionals, senior technologists, and executive-level innovators who seek to lead the next generation of scientific advancement and systems transformation. This program merges computational science, artificial intelligence, intelligent systems engineering, and decision science into a unified doctoral framework grounded in applied research, high-performance analytics, and real-world impact.
The program’s curriculum is strategically structured to develop mastery across four interrelated domains:
Advanced Computing: Encompassing data science, scientific computation, high-performance algorithms, and deep learning.
Data-Enabled Intelligent Engineering Science: Covering intelligent systems, machine learning, systems engineering, and complex systems modeling.
Mathematical and Computational Foundations: Including applied mathematics, modeling, optimization, and advanced algorithmic methods.
Operations Research and Decision Science: Integrating operations analytics, decision optimization, and AI-driven systems for strategic problem solving.
Candidates engage in a progressive research journey that includes advanced methodology, a comprehensive examination, and a multi-phase dissertation. Under expert supervision, they investigate frontier topics with the aim of delivering innovative, scalable solutions across domains such as aerospace, energy systems, industrial automation, smart infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.
This Executive PhD is designed for working professionals and global R&D leaders who require flexibility without compromising academic rigor. The program equips candidates with the capacity to synthesize computational intelligence, engineering theory, and operations strategy to address high-impact challenges.
Graduates emerge as scholar-innovators and applied science strategists, capable of leading cross-disciplinary research, advancing enterprise-level innovation, and shaping the future of intelligent systems and data-driven engineering worldwide. The Executive PhD stands as a testament to academic excellence and technical leadership at the highest level.
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Strategic Academic Planning: A Blueprint for Holistic Success
Achieving academic excellence requires more than just diligence; it demands a meticulously crafted strategy that considers the entirety of your circumstances. Strategic Academic Planning is essential for navigating the complex landscape of higher education while ensuring a balanced and fulfilling life. This approach is not merely about scheduling courses; it is about designing a comprehensive framework that aligns your academic pursuits with your broader personal and professional goals.
Your academic plan must be developed with the highest level of precision, taking into account the diverse and unique challenges you face. This includes harmonizing personal commitments, such as family and social obligations, with professional responsibilities and the strategic timing of course offerings. Moreover, you must anticipate and accommodate external factors that could affect your academic efficiency and ability to manage the essential day-to-day activities that sustain your well-being.
Strategic Academic Planning is about more than academic success—it is about ensuring that every aspect of your life is in harmony, fostering an environment where you can thrive both intellectually and personally. By carefully considering potential obstacles and integrating them into your planning process, you position yourself to excel not just in your studies, but also in your personal development and career aspirations.
In the fast-paced, multifaceted world of modern education, the ability to strategically manage your academic journey is crucial. It empowers you to navigate the complexities of your education while simultaneously advancing toward your long-term goals. By aligning every element of your academic experience with your broader aspirations, Strategic Academic Planning becomes a blueprint for holistic success, guiding you to achieve excellence across all dimensions of your life.
This approach is not just about meeting immediate academic objectives; it is about crafting a path that ensures sustainable success and fulfillment. As you plan, consider how each decision you make today will influence your future, and ensure that your academic schedule reflects a strategic vision that encompasses your entire life’s ambitions. This is the essence of Strategic Academic Planning—creating a framework that not only meets the highest standards of academic rigor but also supports a life of purpose, balance, and achievement.
Graduates of the Executive Doctor of Philosophy in Advanced Computing, Data-Enabled Intelligent Engineering Science, and Operations Research are equipped with a rare blend of deep technical expertise, advanced research capability, and strategic leadership acumen, positioning them for high-impact roles across academia, government, advanced industry, and global innovation ecosystems. With mastery in computational science, artificial intelligence, intelligent systems, and decision analytics, they are uniquely prepared to lead transformative initiatives, shape future technologies, and influence scientific advancement at the highest levels.
1. Academic and Research Leadership
Professor / Academic Fellow in Computing or Engineering – Teach, supervise doctoral research, and contribute to high-impact publications and academic grant programs.
Director of Research Institutes or Labs – Lead interdisciplinary teams focused on intelligent systems, applied computing, and data-driven engineering.
Principal Investigator (PI) – Direct funded research projects in artificial intelligence, complex systems, and operations research.
2. Advanced Industry and Innovation Leadership
Chief Technology Officer (CTO) – Guide technological innovation, digital transformation, and R&D strategy within global enterprises.
Director of Advanced Computing / AI R&D – Lead applied research in machine learning, predictive analytics, and intelligent systems engineering.
Systems Innovation Architect – Design scalable intelligent infrastructures for aerospace, energy, defense, or manufacturing industries.
Lead Computational Scientist / Algorithm Engineer – Solve mission-critical technical problems using high-performance computing and mathematical modeling.
3. Government and International Scientific Agencies
National Research Program Director – Shape scientific priorities in areas such as AI governance, engineering science, and digital infrastructure.
Strategic Technology Policy Advisor – Advise ministries and regulatory bodies on the deployment of intelligent technologies and critical systems.
Defense Science Analyst / Systems Engineer – Develop secure, intelligent decision systems for national security and defense operations.
4. Consulting and Applied Research Strategy
Senior Scientific Consultant – Provide expert guidance on high-level computational projects, simulation systems, and intelligent automation.
Operations Research Advisor – Optimize strategic planning, resource allocation, and logistics for enterprise and public-sector clients.
Innovation Strategy Partner – Advise executive boards on AI-driven product development and data science integration.
5. Entrepreneurship and Deep Tech Leadership
Founder / CEO of a Deep Tech Startup – Launch ventures focused on advanced computing, intelligent robotics, or decision systems engineering.
Executive-in-Residence at Research Incubators – Mentor emerging tech innovators and lead cross-sector collaborative R&D.
Venture Partner (Tech & Engineering Focus) – Identify and scale high-impact technologies with commercial and societal relevance.
Graduates of this Executive PhD program are not only equipped to advance scientific knowledge and pioneer real-world innovations, but also to lead technological transformation across global systems, ensuring their place among the most influential minds in advanced computing, intelligent engineering, and decision science.
2024-2025 TUITION POLICY
For the 2024-2025 academic year, The American University of Science (AUS) has set a tuition fee of $1,000 per graduate semester credit hour (GSCH). This policy underscores AUS’s commitment to equitable access to education by maintaining a uniform tuition rate, regardless of the student’s state of residency. As a private institution, AUS prioritizes fairness and inclusivity, ensuring that all students benefit from high-quality academic opportunities at consistent costs.
FLAT-RATE TUITION
Currently, certain programs are offered at a flat-rate tuition, covering the total cost of the program. This structure simplifies financial planning for students while maintaining the university’s mission to deliver exceptional education without compromising affordability. AUS ensures transparency and flexibility in its tuition policies, fostering trust and confidence among its diverse student body.
FEES AND EXPENSES
The 2024-2025 indicative graduate-level fees and expenses:
Application Fee: $100.00
Matriculation Fee: $500.00 (Currently waived)
University Premium Fee: $5,000.00 (Currently waived)
Document Fee: $2,500.00 (Currently waived)
Graduation Fee: $2,500.00 (Currently waived)
Program Withdrawal Fee: $1,000.00 (Currently waived)
Course Late Registration Fee: $1000.00 (Currently waived)
Late Payment Fee: $100.00
SCHOLARSHIP
Students have the opportunity to access a diverse array of scholarships, including those covering up to 100% of tuition costs. These scholarships are automatically considered upon the submission of the application.
The total indicative flat-rate tuition is currently under review. Please check back later for updated information.
ELIGIBILITY AND ADMISSION STANDARDS FOR DOCTORAL PROGRAMS
Admission to doctoral programs at The American University of Science (AUS) reflects a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, advanced research, and professional leadership. Eligibility is determined through a rigorous and comprehensive evaluation of academic achievements, research experience, and professional qualifications. These standards ensure that candidates are prepared to engage with the intellectual challenges and scholarly rigor required at the doctoral level.
Eligibility Requirements
Academic Qualifications
Completion of an Accredited Undergraduate Program: Applicants must have successfully completed an accredited undergraduate program comprising at least 120 semester credits or an equivalent qualification recognized by AUS. This requirement establishes the foundational academic skills necessary for advanced doctoral study.
Completion of an Accredited Graduate Program: Candidates must have completed an accredited graduate program encompassing a minimum of 30 semester credits or an equivalent qualification recognized by AUS. This criterion ensures that applicants possess the advanced knowledge and analytical skills essential for contributing to doctoral-level research and scholarship.
Grade Point Average (GPA): A cumulative GPA of no less than 3.0 on a 4.3 scale, or an equivalent standard recognized by AUS, is required. This benchmark underscores AUS’s commitment to academic rigor and ensures candidates are well-prepared for the intellectual demands of doctoral education.
Language Proficiency
Non-native speaking candidates must provide evidence of English proficiency at a minimum level of B2, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Research Experience
Research experience is a valuable asset, particularly in research-intensive doctoral programs. Applicants should demonstrate:
Proficiency in developing research questions, conducting data analysis, and disseminating findings.
Contributions to academic or professional research projects.
Certain programs may require several years of experience in senior research roles, as this background demonstrates the ability to produce original scholarship and contribute meaningfully to the field. Such experience highlights a candidate’s readiness to excel in the independent, rigorous research environment of doctoral study.
Professional Experience
For professional doctoral programs, applicants may need substantial experience in relevant fields. Leadership roles, strategic decision-making, or advanced problem-solving align closely with the objectives of many doctoral programs.
Programs may evaluate:
The candidate’s ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges.
Contributions to innovation and thought leadership within the field.
Several years of experience at a defined level of seniority may be required, depending on the program’s focus and objectives. This experience underscores the candidate’s potential to bridge the gap between theory and practice effectively.
ELIGIBILITY AND ADMISSION STANDARDS FOR PROGRAM-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
Admission to programs with specific standards at The American University of Science (AUS) is based on a commitment to academic excellence and professional readiness. Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for an unconditional offer of admission, ensuring they are prepared to succeed in their chosen field.
Eligibility Requirements
Academic Qualifications
Applicants must hold an undergraduate and graduate degree in a relevant subject area or an equivalent credential as recognized by AUS.
Experience Preference
Candidates are strongly encouraged to demonstrate:
A minimum of three years of full-time work experience, including at least one year of full-time professional management or executive experience (or the part-time equivalent) acquired post-degree.
Significant exposure to strategic leadership and complex problem-solving in fields relevant to computing, engineering, data science, or operations research.
This experience highlights the applicant’s ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges and contributes to a dynamic academic environment.
Research Experience
Candidates are strongly encouraged to present evidence of research proficiency through one of the following rigorous pathways:
Substantial Research Experience (with a minimum of three years of full-time research in a relevant field, demonstrating expertise in:)
Formulating and addressing complex research questions with precision and innovation.
Conducting advanced data analysis and computational modeling to derive actionable insights.
Publishing or presenting research findings in academic journals, professional conferences, or industry forums, showcasing thought leadership and scholarly impact.
Completion of a Master-Level Research Project
Evidence of a comprehensive research project that integrates theoretical frameworks with practical applications.
This project should highlight the ability to tackle multifaceted challenges and contribute to the advancement of knowledge within the chosen field.
Academic, Professional, and Research Proficiency
Satisfy the admission committee’s standards by demonstrating proficiency in academic achievements, professional expertise, or research capabilities, aligning with the program’s rigorous expectations.
ELIGIBILITY AND ADMISSION STANDARDS FOR ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
Proficiency in the English language is a fundamental requirement for admission to programs at The American University of Science (AUS). Applicants must demonstrate their language capabilities through one or more of the following rigorously defined criteria. These standards ensure that all candidates possess the linguistic competence necessary to excel in their academic and professional pursuits.
Eligibility Requirements
Nationality-Based Qualification
Applicants must be nationals of a country where English is recognized as an official or primary language, as acknowledged by AUS. This ensures that candidates possess innate linguistic fluency suitable for academic engagement.
Education-Based Qualification
For Undergraduate Admission: Applicants must have successfully completed a high school diploma or its equivalent in a country where English is designated as an official or primary language, with English serving as the medium of instruction throughout their educational curriculum.
For Graduate Admission: Applicants must have successfully completed an undergraduate degree or its equivalent in a country where English is designated as an official or primary language, with English as the medium of instruction for the entire duration of the academic program.
Professional Experience-Based Qualification
Applicants must provide evidence of full-time professional employment for a minimum of two consecutive years within the last decade in a country where English is designated as an official or primary language. This experience must be substantiated by official employment records and professional references attesting to the use of English as the primary working language.
Proficiency Assessment Criteria
CEFR Certification: Applicants must achieve a minimum proficiency level in English as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This proficiency must be verified through recognized English language assessments such as TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge English examinations.
EPASS Certification: Applicants must achieve a minimum proficiency level in English as defined by CEFR standards, verified through the EPASS assessment. Successful candidates will also be awarded a Certificate of English Language Proficiency (CELP) from AUS, signifying their language competency.
