Thesis-Based Master’s Degrees and PhD Programs

With more than 30 master’s degrees and 15 doctorate options, KFUPM provides ample opportunity to explore ideas, question assumptions, and create your own research journey. Each program invites you to think critically, investigate deeply, and contribute meaningfully to your chosen discipline.

Thesis-Based Master of Science (MS)

KFUPM’s Master of Science (M.S.) programs are advanced, research-based degrees designed for students who want to deepen their academic knowledge and gain strong research experience in their chosen field of study. Each program requires you to conduct original research under the supervision of faculty mentors, leading to a theory-based thesis that must be defended and may later be published.

These programs are specifically intended for those who plan to pursue a PhD or start a career in academia. They help you strengthen your research competencies and improve your employability when you embark on your professional or academic path. Some departments offer two tracks under the same degree, Thesis and Non-Thesis (coursework/project), allowing you to choose the path that best fits your goals.

 

Minimum Requirements for MS Admissions

  • A four-year Bachelor’s (B.S.) degree in engineering or science from a recognized institution with a major in the proposed field or evidence of suitable background for entering the proposed field.
  • A Grade-Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 or higher on a 4.00 scale (for scholarship applicants) or 2.50 or higher (for non-scholarship applicants).
  • Completion of one of the following English proficiency tests:
    • TOEFL: 520 (PBT), 190 (CBT), or 70 (IBT)
    • IELTS: minimum score of 6.0
    • Duolingo: minimum score of 105

    These requirements are waived for KFUPM graduates and graduates from English-speaking countries (USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand).

  • Two letters of recommendation, preferably from faculty who taught the applicant university-level courses, submitted through the online recommendation system.
  • Satisfactory fulfillment of any additional departmental or university admission requirements.

Note: Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Final decisions depend on the overall strength of each application and the capacity of individual programs.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

KFUPM’s PhD programs are research-intensive doctoral degrees that combine advanced coursework with the completion of a substantial dissertation. Each program is exclusively thesis-based. The PhD dissertation must present original findings that contribute new knowledge to the scientific community.

To become a PhD candidate, you must demonstrate strong academic performance and research readiness. These programs are designed for those who wish to advance in academia or engage in high-level research in science and engineering disciplines.

 

Minimum Requirements for PhD Admissions

  • An M.S. degree in engineering or science from an institution whose graduate programs are equivalent to those of KFUPM, with a major in the proposed field or evidence of suitable background for entering the proposed field.
  • A minimum GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale (or equivalent) in both B.S. and M.S. degrees. Official transcripts and degree certificates are required.
  • Completion of one of the following English proficiency tests:
    • TOEFL: 550 (PBT), 213 (CBT), or 80 (IBT)
    • IELTS: minimum score of 6.5
    • Duolingo: minimum score of 120

    These requirements are waived for KFUPM graduates and graduates from English-speaking countries (USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand).

  • Two letters of recommendation, preferably from faculty who taught the applicant graduate courses.
  • Satisfactory fulfillment of any additional departmental or university admission requirements.

Note: Meeting the minimum requirements does not ensure admission. Final acceptance depends on a full evaluation of the application and program capacity.

PhD – Direct Entry

KFUPM also offers a Direct-to-PhD program for applicants who hold a four-year bachelor’s degree (B.S.) and wish to begin doctoral studies without first completing a master’s degree. This option is open to both local and international applicants and typically takes four to five years to complete.

 

Minimum Requirements for PhD - Direct Entry

  • A minimum GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale (or equivalent) in the B.S. degree. Official transcripts and degree certificates are required.
  • Completion of one of the following English proficiency tests:
    • TOEFL: 550 (PBT), 213 (CBT), or 80 (IBT)
    • IELTS: minimum score of 6.5
    • Duolingo: minimum score of 120

    These requirements are waived for KFUPM graduates and graduates from English-speaking countries (USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand).

    TOEFL scores must be sent directly to the College of Graduate Studies using the KFUPM code 0868.


    Degree list

    Contact the Graduate Admissions Team

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