PhD Programs

NYU Abu Dhabi provides pioneering PhD programs for students looking to make a global impact.  Students in our PhD programs work on exciting research projects under the guidance of world-class faculty, with access to cutting-edge facilities. Programs are offered both at the Abu Dhabi campus and in partnership with the NYU Graduate School of Arts and Science and the NYU Tandon School of Engineering, connecting students to a global network of scholars.

NYU Abu Dhabi’s PhD in Astrophysics and Space Systems

Hand-in-hand with the UAE’s mission to establish itself as a leader in space science, our PhD in Astrophysics and Space Systems is the first of its kind in the UAE, and the region. In line with the UAE’s National Space Strategy 2030, this interdisciplinary program between the fields of Astrophysics and Engineering aims to inspire the next generation of space explorers. 

This program is completed in its entirety on the Abu Dhabi campus, where students will complete a multi-year-long research project under the supervision of world-class faculty.

Virtual Information Sessions


Learn more about the program, our campus, and the unique experience a graduate program in the UAE offers. 

Wednesday, December 11, 2024, 6:30pm GST
Thursday, January 9, 2025, 6:30pm GST


Global PhD Student Fellowships

NYU Abu Dhabi offers Global PhD Student Fellowships in collaboration with the NYU Graduate School of Arts and Science and NYU Tandon School of Engineering.

Each program offers a unique opportunity to engage in a global setting, where students will begin their coursework in New York and complete their research in Abu Dhabi. Fellowships provide competitive compensation packages, covering tuition costs, housing in Abu Dhabi, and providing a monthly stipend, as well as additional support for relocation and research start-up costs.

Global PhD students complete the program coursework in New York City (1-2 years) before coming to NYUAD to complete their research and thesis. Applications for PhD programs open in October for the following fall intake.

There is no separate application for the NYUAD Global PhD Student Fellowship. Interested students should indicate their preference for conducting research at NYUAD in their application.