The Maldives Qualification Authority (MQA) has stated it is not suitable to pursue full-time doctoral programmes while also working full-time.
A doctoral programme requires 360 credits, equivalent to at least 3,600 hours of full-time study over three years. While the programme requires extensive research, MQA said full-time study is not suitable for those who are employed.
Under the Maldives National Qualifications Framework (MNQF), full-time doctoral study must last a minimum of three years, while part-time study must be at least twice the duration of full-time programmes.
MQA noted that there are currently no specific rules regarding the duration and delivery of doctoral programmes at higher education institutions in the Maldives. However, the recognition of doctoral degrees is guided by MQA’s rules on recognition of doctoral degrees of overseas higher education institutions.
The authority said those seeking to pursue PhD while employed may do so on a part-time basis, while those who are not employed and fully dedicated to their studies may enrol as full-time PhD students.