Informatics and System Science PhD

Program Overview

The Informatics and System Science PhD program at Henley Business School offers doctoral research opportunities in various areas of information management, including applied informatics, systems science, and health informatics. The program aims to develop advanced research skills, contribute to knowledge in information management, and prepare graduates for careers in academia, research, or industry. It emphasizes industry relevance, student development, and ethical considerations in research.

Program Outline

Research fields within this program include applied informatics and semiotics, service operations management, strategic analysis, systems science, business informatics, health informatics, and perceptual and usability informatics.

Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Develop advanced research skills and knowledge in chosen areas of information management.
• Contribute to the body of knowledge in information management through original research.
• Prepare graduates for careers in academia, research, or industry.

Description:

This program offers a flexible learning environment with various research themes and faculty expertise. Students can pursue research in theoretical or applied domains individually or as part of an interdisciplinary research team. The program emphasizes industry relevance by incorporating industry insights and collaborations in various research projects. The program also focuses on student development by providing research-relevant and personal development modules and workshops.

• Applied informatics and semiotics
• Service operations management
• Strategic analysis
• Systems science
• Business informatics
• Social informatics
• Health informatics
• Perceptual and usability informatics

Structure:

The program is a full-time program lasting three to four years, or a part-time program lasting four to six years. It consists of several components:

• Research modules: Students take PhD-level research modules focusing on research methods, data analysis, and thesis writing.
• Research proposal: Students develop a research proposal outlining their research objectives, methodology, and timeline.
• Dissertation: Students conduct independent research culminating in a dissertation that makes an original contribution to knowledge in the chosen field.

Course Schedule:

The program follows a flexible schedule. Students typically take research modules during the first year of full-time study. Subsequent years are dedicated to data collection, analysis, and dissertation writing. Regular research seminars and meetings with the supervisor provide support and guidance throughout the program.

Assessment:

Methods:

Assessment methods may vary depending on the specific research topic and module. However, common methods include:

• Dissertation defense: Students present and defend their dissertation to a panel of examiners.
• Research paper presentations: Students present their research findings at conferences and workshops.
• Progress reports: Students submit regular progress reports to their supervisor outlining research progress and challenges.
• Literature reviews: Students demonstrate their understanding of the existing literature in their chosen field.

Criteria:

Assessment criteria typically focus on:

• Originality and contribution to knowledge
• Research methodology and execution
• Quality of analysis and interpretation
• Clarity and presentation of research findings

Teaching:

Methods:

The program employs various teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles and research areas. These methods include:

• Lectures: Providing foundational knowledge in specific research areas.
• Seminars: Fostering in-depth discussions and critical analysis of research topics.
• Workshops: Equipping students with research skills and techniques.
• Online resources: Offering access to digital libraries, research databases, and online journals.

Faculty:

The program is supported by a team of experienced and internationally recognized faculty members. Faculty expertise covers a wide range of topics within information management, providing students with access to diverse perspectives and guidance.

Careers:

Career Paths:

Graduates of the program can pursue various career paths, including:

• Academic positions: Conducting research and teaching at universities and research institutions.
• Research positions: Leading research projects in government agencies, private companies, or non-profit organizations.
• Consultancy positions: Providing expertise in information management to businesses and organizations.

Opportunities:

The program provides graduates with various opportunities to enhance their career prospects, including:

• Networking events with industry professionals and alumni.
• Participation in research conferences and workshops.
• Development of transferable skills in research, communication, and problem-solving.

Other:

The program emphasizes ethical considerations in research, ensuring responsible conduct and compliance with research standards. Collaboration with other researchers and departments is encouraged to foster interdisciplinary insights and research projects. The program also provides opportunities for student exchange and international research collaborations, enriching the learning experience and expanding career opportunities.