The American University in Cairo

• Degree: PhD in Applied Sciences (Interdisciplinary)
• Specializations: Biotechnology; Chemistry; Computer Science; Global Public Health; Nanotechnology
• Delivery: On-campus (AUC)
• Credits/Duration: Doctoral study length and credit requirements are determined by the student’s approved program plan and department requirements
• Language of instruction: English
• Admissions tests: GRE General Test (required as listed by AUC); English proficiency via TOEFL iBT or IELTS
• Application: Online application with supporting documents; applicants select up to two doctoral programs for processing

Programme Structure

The PhD curriculum combines graduate-level coursework with research training. Students complete required and elective courses aligned with their specialization, followed by dissertation work under faculty supervision.

Coursework (examples)

Course offerings may vary by specialization and semester. Examples of graduate courses include:

• Biochemistry
• Bioinformatics
• Organometallics
• Advanced Organic Chemistry
• Methods of Structure Determination
• Advanced Artificial Intelligence

Research and dissertation

• Research interests and objectives: developed and refined with the supervisory committee.
• Doctoral dissertation: an original research contribution in the student’s specialization area.
• Research communication: students present and defend research findings as required by the program.

Specialization pathways

Students pursue one specialization track (or an approved interdisciplinary combination) within Applied Sciences:

• Biotechnology
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Global Public Health
• Nanotechnology

Admission Requirements

• Academic background: M.Sc. in an Engineering or Science discipline
• English proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency as determined by AUC graduate admissions (TOEFL iBT or IELTS accepted)
• GRE: Obtain an acceptable score in the GRE General Test
• Application: Online application for graduate studies and online payment of the application fee
• Selection: Applicants select up to two doctoral programs for which the application will be processed
• Statement of purpose
• Research interests and objectives
• Master’s thesis abstract: abstract of the completed master’s thesis
• Resume (updated)
• Transcripts: final official transcript of the master’s degree (courses and grades) with proof of degree completion
• Transcripts: final official transcript of the bachelor’s degree (courses and grades per semester) with proof of degree completion
• Letters of recommendation: two online letters of recommendation
• Computer competency: minimum competency in the use of computers
• Identification: copy of valid national ID card (Egyptian applicants) or passport information pages (international applicants)
• Photo: one recent passport-size photograph

Note: Specific minimum scores, deadlines, and document formats are set by AUC’s graduate admissions office and may vary by intake.

Post-study work rights (general guidance)

Work permit eligibility after completing a PhD depends on the graduate’s nationality, the type of visa/residence permit issued for study, and the rules in force at the time of graduation. In many cases, graduates may be able to apply for a temporary residence/work authorization that allows employment in Egypt after finishing their degree, subject to meeting immigration and labour requirements.

Typical eligibility factors

• Completion of the PhD and possession of the official degree documentation.
• Valid immigration status in Egypt at the time of application.
• A job offer or employment arrangement may be required, depending on the visa/work authorization category.
• Compliance with any additional documentation requirements (e.g., employer sponsorship, background checks, and medical/administrative procedures).

Important notes for international students

• Rules can change and may differ by nationality and current Egyptian immigration policy.
• Processing timelines and permit duration are determined by the relevant authorities and the chosen work authorization category.
• Students should confirm the latest requirements with AUC’s international student office and the Egyptian immigration authorities before graduation.

Next step

If you share your nationality and intended employment situation (job offer vs. job search), we can help you identify the most relevant work-permit pathway to discuss with AUC and the authorities.