Courses

Introduction to the Course

There are a limited number of postgraduate degree programs in Lift (Elevator) Engineering available worldwide. Elevator professionals who possess a first degree in a relevant area find it difficult to find an academic program for further studies in their profession. A unique opportunity is available in Hong Kong right now!

The Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology of The University of Northampton, England, United Kingdom, is operating the world’s leading postgraduate program in Lift (Elevator) Engineering, both by coursework (MSc) and by research (MPhil/PhD). Dr Albert So of The Asian Institute of Built Environment (AIBE) has been invited to help and guide professionals in Hong Kong who are looking for a higher degree by research in elevator engineering.

If you are working for an elevator company, or you are a contractor or consultant serving in the elevator industry, and have a good Honors Degree or Masters Degree in Engineering / Science or related fields, you may apply to study for an MPhil (Master of Philosophy) / PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) at The University of Northampton.

 

Course Features and Structure

Subject to approval of individual projects, the program is available to study off-site part-time, and is conducted by research. Supervision, support and training are provided via distance learning with supervisory meetings conducted on-line / through video conferencing. As an international student, you will be able to complete the study locally in Hong Kong and to travel to Northampton only as necessary; normally once to attend the induction/training on enrolment. Research topics cover a broad range of areas relevant to the theory and practice in the field of elevator technology. They include but are not limited to:

• traffic design and analysis; mathematical modeling and computer simulation;
• applications of artificial intelligence and intelligent supervisory systems;
• elevator ride quality, dynamics and vibration analysis;
• elevator and escalator safety;
• energy consumption;
• advanced drive technologies and drive control;
• structural analysis

During your studies you will be expected to carry out a critical investigation of an approved research topic. You may choose between an MPhil and PhD. For the MPhil award the demands of originality are less than those for PhD. Doctorates are awarded to candidates who have demonstrated the creation and interpretation of new knowledge through original research.  The period of part-time registration for PhD is: minimum 3 years -  maximum 6 years and for an MPhil minimum 30 months - maximum 5 years. Students who have completed the minimum period of registration may apply to transfer to writing up status. The final assessment is based on a written thesis and a viva voce (oral) examination.

 

Entry requirement

Applicants should have:

• a recognised first or upper second class honours degree or Master’s Degree from a UK university or International equivalent in a relevant subject area. Students with lower level qualifications or qualifications in a different subject area, but relevant experience will also be considered on an individual basis.
  AND

• minimum English language requirement of IELTS at 7.0, with no component less than 6.5 (or equivalent).

 

Application Method

If you are interested in finding out more about the program, please approach Ir Dr Albert So of AIBE (e-mail: albertso@aibe-edu.org); Tel: (852) 3595-2023 or (852) 2376-1933

 

Contact / Supervisor at The University of Northampton

Professor Stefan Kaczmarczyk

PhD, MSc, Professor of Applied Mechanics,

Postgraduate Field Chair: Lift Engineering

Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology, The University of Northampton, U.K.