The PhD programme in Information Security and Communication Technology covers 180 ECTS credits, which corresponds to a nominal length of study of three years. The final plan for the PhD programme is to be worked out jointly by the candidate, the main supervisor and the department.

Academically, the doctoral programme is affiliated with the Department of Information Security and Communication Technology. The main fields within information security and communication technology include research and education in cyber security, information security, communication networks and network services. Academically, the programme of study is affiliated with the main area of information security and communication technology, but may also include interdisciplinary fields of research where the main profile lies within information security and communication technology.

The Department of Information Security and Communication Technology hosts the Center for Cyber and Information Security (CCIS) and Norway’s National Research School of Computer and Information Security (COINS).

Why take a PhD in information security and communication technology?

Taking a PhD provides a unique opportunity for in-dept study and academic specialization and you will have the opportunity of doing research within a broad field of study where potentially many areas of application exist.

Independent work

The most important component of the PhD education is an independent work within research or artistic development work that is carried out ender active supervision. Annual progress reports, as well as a midway assessment must be submitted. The midway assessment is compulsory for all candidates after half the agreement period to ensure that the progress and supervision are satisfactory. The departments are in charge of the assessment.

Requirements regarding stay at the unit (residence duty)

Candidates with external funding or an external place of work are required to stay in a suitable and relevant academic environment at NTNU for a total period of one year or more of the PhD education. The faculty has to make sure that each individual PhD candidate is able to acquire the total learning outcome in the form of knowledge, skills and general competence as describe for the third cycle in the national qualifications framework (page 40). The residence duty may be fulfilled as one continuous period or several periods. The residence duty may be reduced if the candidate will be affiliated with other strong research environments.

National research school

The PhD programme in Information Security and Communication Technology is connected with the National Research School of Information Security that is coordinated from NTNU. The Research School gives access to a wider national academic environment, broad access to relevant courses, joint sessions and conferences, etc.