PhD Open Secure Communication Networks

The PhD in Open Secure Communications Networks at the University of Surrey gives you the chance to carry out research in areas such as wireless communications, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. This programme is part of a joint Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) with Queen’s University Belfast (QUB), offering access to top researchers, advanced training, and a wide network of academic and industry experts.

In your first year, you will follow a simple study plan, take part in a group project, and begin learning the skills you need for your research. You will choose one of four main project topics: space and ground communication systems, trustworthy artificial intelligence (AI), safe computer hardware, or AI-supported wireless security. This choice will shape your research for the rest of your PhD.

From your second year, you will focus on your research project. You may also take more training, do a work placement, or join activities that connect science with the public. At the end of the programme, you will write a thesis and discuss your work in an oral exam (called a viva). Studying for the PhD in Open Secure Communications Networks at the University of Surrey will help you prepare for a career in research, technology, or policy, with strong knowledge of secure communication systems.

The University of Surrey is a well-known public university located in Guildford, Surrey, in the south-east of England. Its main campus is at Stag Hill, only a 10-minute walk from the centre of Guildford. The campus includes most of the classrooms, the MySurrey Hive student centre, and a library that is open 24 hours a day, with support for your studies. The university also runs the Surrey Research Park, where about 175 companies are based and around 4,500 people work. This helps support the local economy, especially in areas like technology and business.

Applicants have to complete a successful interview and provide suitable references to study this course.

Grade Requirements:

• Applicants are expected to hold a first or upper second-class (2:1) UK degree in a relevant discipline (or equivalent overseas qualification).
• A lower-second (2:2) UK degree plus a good UK master's degree - merit or distinction (or equivalent overseas qualification) is also accepted.

English Proficiency:

International students are required to have an IELTS overall score of 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each category. Equivalent tests such as TOEFL and PTE are also accepted.

For the 2025/2026 academic year, the tuition fee to study the PhD in Open Secure Communications Networks at the University of Surrey is £27,200. It should be noted that fees will be increased by 4% for each year of study.

The University of Surrey offers different scholarships and bursaries to help students with their finances. International PhD students are also advised to look for funding from outside the university, especially if they want full scholarships. You can visit the university’s website to see the latest PhD opportunities that come with funding.

A PhD in Open Secure Communications Networks from the University of Surrey opens doors to opportunities in roles including the following:

• Network Architect
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Penetration Tester
• Research Scientist/Engineer
• University Professor/Lecturer

To study this course, you have to apply through the university’s online portal. For more information about the application process, our counsellors at AHZ are available to assist.