University of Surrey

PhD Vision, Speech and Signal Processing

University of Surrey

Course overview

The PhD in Vision, Speech and Signal Processing at the University of Surrey is for students who want to do advanced research in AI, computer vision, speech tech, machine learning, and signal processing. You will work on projects that teach computers to understand images, sounds, and signals, with real-world uses in healthcare, robotics, security, and entertainment. You will learn advanced research, programming, and problem-solving skills while working with experts.

Your supervisors will guide you through meetings, seminars, workshops, and group discussions. You will also use modern labs and computing equipment to gain practical experience. Progress is assessed through research work, published papers, and your final PhD thesis. By the end, you will have expert skills, ready for a career in research, academia, or industry.

Entry requirements

To apply for this PhD, you will need to submit a research proposal, a personal statement, and academic transcripts from previous studies. A reference from an academic or professional source is also required.

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants typically need a first-class or upper second-class honours degree in a relevant subject such as Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or Mathematics.
  • A relevant Master’s degree is also beneficial.
  • Equivalent international qualifications are accepted.

English Proficiency:

  • Applicants from non-English-speaking backgrounds must achieve a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5, with at least 6.0 in each component.
  • Equivalent test scores, such as TOEFL or PTE, are also accepted.

Scholarships

  • Discounts for Surrey Graduates

    As graduate of Surrey you may be eligible for a 20 per cent discount on our taught masters programme fees.

    Up to 20% of fees
  • Early Payment Discount

    The discount is awarded as a £2,000 fee waiver for eligible students in the first year of their studies.

    Up to £2,000
  • ICAEW Foundation Bursary

    The ICAEW Foundation Bursary will be given as a one-off payment of £5,000 for one year of postgraduate study.

    Up to £5,000
  • International Alumni Discount for Medicine (Graduate Entry) BMBS

    The discount of 20% only applies to the first year of the Medicine (Graduate Entry) BMBS programme.

    Up to 20% of fees
  • International Excellence Award (Postgraduate)

    This prestigious £5,000 award recognises academic excellence and is awarded to selected students starting a masters degree at Surrey.

    Up to £5,000
  • International Excellence Award (Undergraduate)

    The scholarship is awarded as a £5,000 fee waiver.

    Up to £5,000
  • ISTAT Foundation Scholarship Program

    Contributing to the development of future aviation professionals by providing funds and avenues for students with a keen interest in commercial aviation.

  • Surrey MBA AI Pathfinders Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Eastern Europe Bridge Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Employer Partnership Scholarship

    This scholarship allows the Surrey MBA to match employer contributions towards the tuition fee up to 40%.

  • Surrey MBA Enterprise Trailblazer Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Service Stewardship Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Women in Leadership

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10 – 50% of the tuition fee.

  • The Professor GQ Max Lu Global Scholarship

    The total value of the award is £30,000 (£10,000 x 3 years).

    Up to £30,000

Career opportunities

Graduates of the PhD in Vision, Speech and Signal Processing can pursue careers such as:

  • Research Scientist
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • Computer Vision Specialist
  • University Lecturer
  • Data Scientist

Cost of study

The annual tuition fee for the PhD Vision, Speech and Signal Processing at the University of Surrey is £27,200 for international students.

Admission

Applications for the PhD Vision, Speech and Signal Processing can be made directly through the University of Surrey’s online application portal. For further assistance, kindly reach out to one of our trained counsellors.

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