executive phd programs uk

Monika SAVELSKYTE

Global Executive Ph.D. Recruiter Schedule a call +33 (0)6 78 44 12 62

• Global Executive Ph.D.

October 2024

Language of instruction

Where you study

• Executive Education
• Fees & Financing

Global Executive Ph.D. Designed for an executive audience

Information Coronavirus:

Despite the situation related to Covid-19, we continue to accompany you with your professional development project.

The ongoing recruitment process: Application files to be completed online and selection interviews conducted remotely. Our team is always ready and available to listen to you.

Doctoral-level Qualification

The world we are living in is facing profound evolution and relentless change. In this environment, we need visionary leaders who are capable of adapting, learning and inspiring others. Our programme enables senior executives and business leaders to act as reflective practitioners and to conduct valuable, doctoral-level research on a part-time basis over three to four years. You will benefit from the expertise of ESCP’s international world-class faculty.

Participants are expected to remain in employment and leverage their professional and personal experience throughout the programme.

Overview of ESCP Global Executive Ph.D.

Research method modules.

Develop methodological and theoretical skills at a doctoral level

Advanced Specialisation Modules

Develop field-specific expertise

Modules delivered over 3 residential sessions

Research paper.

Apply the skills you have acquired to a concrete industry-relevant problem. Participants who successfully complete this paper and all courses from year 1 will be awarded an Executive Masters in Management Research from ESCP Business School.

Ph.D. Dissertation

Complete a publishable-level research work in your chosen field of expertise. The dissertation can take the form of three publishable papers or a monograph.

Why choose ESCP's Global Executive Ph.D. programme?

A unique opportunity.

The ESCP Global Executive Ph.D. represents a unique opportunity to enhance, validate, and leverage your professional expertise within a rigorous academic framework.

Stimulates your Intellectual Expertise

Whether your goal is to enhance your knowledge and expertise in a given operational area, enhance your industry practice with academic experience, or continue your lifelong appetite for learning, the ESCP Global Executive Ph.D. is for you. The programme will enable you to combine the most advanced academic research findings with the "hands-on" experience of experts and apply your conclusions to complex management paradigms.

Your Benefits

Company benefits, key facts of the global executive ph.d..

• 86 executive participants
• 2020 inaugural cohort
• 33 nationalities represented
• 44 year old, on average
• 16 average years of work experience
• 12 average years of managerial experience
• 30% C-level, owners, and partners

Satisfaction rating  (2023) 3,7/4

Webinar An Executive Ph.D. Journey: How to Choose Your Research Topic

Tuesday, 16 april 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. (cest).

Prof. Daniela Lup Professor of Management

Sam Sena Global Executive Ph.D., Class of 2025

[On-demand] Webinar Elevate Your Expertise: Becoming a Thought Leader Through Research

Thursday, 7 march 2:30 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. (cet), [on-demand] webinar the impact of ai on research, thursday, 1 february 2:30 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. (cet), [on-demand] webinar the future of management, tuesday, 12 september 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. (cest), [on-demand] webinar unlock your research potential with the global executive ph.d.: the power of a strong advisor-advisee partnership, your resources white papers, discover the entire series of white papers: leaders for the future., global executive ph.d. academic research & a hands-on approach, programme structure, stage 1 18 months.

Coursework and First Research Paper

Stage 2 18* or 30 months * 18 months for accelerated participants

• 6 Research methods modules
• 4+ Advanced Specialisation modules
• Research Paper 2 (RP2)
• Research Paper 3 (RP3)
• 2 Research Bootcamps

The Ph.D. dissertation can take the form of three publishable papers or a monograph.

Following Stage 1 and the successful completion of required courseworks and Field Research Paper 1 (RP1), you will be awarded an Executive Master in Management Research.

Following Stage 2 and the successful completion of your Ph.D. dissertation, you will be awarded an Executive Ph.D. (ESCP degree). ESCP Business School is a founding member of the Sorbonne Alliance.

For more details, contact your programme advisor .

Innovative Learning Model

• A combination of academic, managerial teaching and reading materials will allow you to see how theoretical insights can be immediately translated into business outcomes.
• An adapted learning methodology enables participants to combine their career experience with a Executive Ph.D. including assignments that help you master new knowledge in detail.
• In-depth specialisation seminars allow you to acquire cutting-edge skills and to reflect on current and future trends in management.

International Standards

The courses adhere to the highest international standards. You will be taught research methodologies and benefit from specialisation courses linked to your dissertation project. Assignments will be given after each module to allow you to better integrate both the fundamentals and advanced concepts. You will also have a dedicated supervisor as well as coaching sessions to guide you towards the successful completion of your dissertation.

RESEARCH METHODS MODULES (Methodological and theoretical skills development)

• Research Methods: Theory and Practice
• Art Thinking and Research Creativity
• Theory Building in Management Science
• Design of Field Research Methods
• Reading Seminar
• Quantitative Methods: Empirical Methods and Causal Inference
• Quantitative Methods
• Applied Econometrics* * Participants who choose this module will have three specialisation modules instead of four.

SPECIALISATION MODULES (Field-specific expertise development) Below are examples of specialisation modules offered in alternate years.

Some advanced specialisation modules will be available and delivered online. Please contact the Global Executive Ph.D. office for the course schedules.

• Management of Innovation
• Advanced Topics in the Future of Work (Diversity, Inclusion and Global Leadership)
• Advanced Topics in Artificial Intelligence and Social Media
• Advanced Topics in Consumption in New Digital Age
• Advanced Topics on Finance and Society
• Advanced Topics in Behavioral Finance and Tech-driven Financial Services

Information & Operations

• Advanced Topics in Big Data and Digital Transformation
• Advanced topics in the Future of Supply Chain and Operations Management
• Advanced Topics in the Robot and AI wave: business implications

Entrepreneurship

• Advanced topics in Entrepreneurial Decision-making under Uncertainty

Accounting & Management Control

• Advanced topics in Accounting and Boundaries of Organizations in the Digital Economy

Economics & Public Policy

• Advanced topics in Real Estate and Public Policy

Sustainability

• Advanced Topics in Sustainability

Ph.D. dissertation

Participants are required to write a Ph.D. dissertation , which takes the form of a monograph or three publishable papers. The Ph.D. dissertation defence is oral and open to the public.

Students are expected to complete the Ph.D. programme in 3-4 years in total.

Participants will be guided by their dissertation advisors all throughout this intellectual journey and supported through coaching and the “research bootcamps” which will help orient and adjust their work.

Global Executive Ph.D. Work closely with world-class faculty and benefit from their cutting-edge expertise and research

Professor Avgoustaki's interests lie at the intersection of human resource management and industrial relations. Her work has been published in Industrial and Labour Relations Review, Human Resource Management, and Economic and Industrial Democracy. Her work has been covered in media outlets such as The Financial Times, FT China, Business Insider UK, Le Monde, Le Figaro, The Daily Mail, Insider, CNBC, Le Soir, The Guardian, Women’s Health, New Scientist, Entrepreneur, MDR Radio, CNBC, and the World Economic Forum.

Professor Becker's research focuses on econometric modelling of marketing decisions, particularly advertising and its effectiveness. Maren’s work has been published in the Journal of Marketing and Journal of Marketing Research and was featured in press outlets such as die Zeit, Markenartikel, and Harvard Business Manager.

Professor Bunkanwanicha's research lies research lies at the intersection of family business, political connections, and finance. Published in top-tier finance and economic journals, namely the Review of Financial Studies, the Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis, the Journal of Comparative Economics, his research has been also presented in major academic conference such as the American Finance Association (AFA), the Western Finance Association (WFA), the European Finance Association (EFA).

Based on Professor Bureau's research on creative practices, he created the Art Thinking : a method to create the improbable with certainty. He teaches this method in unique locations like Centre Pompidou. He has been a visiting scholar at UC Berkeley and City University of New York. Sylvain is also the co-founder of Storymakers, an app to make pitches people remember, and co-author of Free Your Pitch (Pearson, 2018).

Almudena Cañibano holds a PhD in Employment relations and organisational behaviour from the London School of Economics and Political Science. Her research seeks to understand the changing nature of work and its impact on employee well-being and organisational outcomes. She has looked at work practices such as flexible working and the digitalisation of work. Her work has been published in outlets such as Human Relations, Industrial Relations: A Journal of Economy and Society, Management Decision and the Oxford Handbook of Participation in Organizations .

Areas of expertise : Sustainability, Supply Chain Management, Circular Economy transition.

Recent publications : Carmagnac, L., Carbone, V. and Touboulic A. (2022) “A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing: The Ambiguous Role of Multistakeholder Meta-organisations in Sustainable Supply Chains”, Management, in press.

Areas of expertise : strategic innovation, entrepreneurship, international business, market strategies.

Recent publications : BRIDOUX, F., COEURDEROY, R. and R. DURAND Heterogeneous social motives and interactions: The three predictable paths of capability development, STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT JOURNAL, 2017

Professor di Giuli was a research assistant at the London School of Economics and a visiting fellow at Harvard Business School. Her research focuses on corporate governance, corporate social responsibility, mergers and acquisitions and family firms.

Frédéric Fréry is a Professor of Strategic Management at ESCP. He is author or co-author of 40 books, among which Stratégique, the most widely used strategy manual in the French-speaking world. He is also honorary professor at CentraleSupélec and expert for the Association Progrès du Management. He has been a Visiting Scholar at Stanford University and a Visiting Professor at the University of Texas at Austin. His research and teachings focus on strategy, organization and management of innovation.

Professor Getz is a former Visiting Professor at Cornell and Stanford. His book Freedom, Inc. has been published in 14 countries and won the Best Business Book award. His other book L'entreprise liberée has also won the Best Business Bookaward. Isaac has studied over 300 organizations on four continents and has published extensively.

Professor Haenlein is the most cited researcher in the field of Word-of-Mouth, among the top three in the field of Customer Relationship Management and among the top ten in the field of Social Influence. Since May 2019 Michael is part of the Executive Committee of EMAC where he serves as Vice President Corporate Relationships.

Héctor González Jiménez has worked on projects for small to medium sized businesses as well as large international companies such as Pepsi or Ford. He is interested in interdisciplinary research that addresses phenomena on the self and consumption as well as human-robot interactions.

Professor Karehnke's work has been published in Management Science (Spanning Tests for Assets with Option-Like Payoffs: The Case of Hedge Funds) and the Review of Finance (Time-varying state variable risk premia in the ICAPM) among others.

Professor Daniela Lup produces research, teaches, and consults in areas related to organizational behaviour, with a focus on practices related to decision making during transformation, negotiations, diversity & inclusion, creativity & teamwork. Her work is published in internationally renowned journals such as Organization Science, Journal of Business Ethics, Work Employment Society , and has been featured in Harvard Business Review and LSE Business Review .

Jaime P. Luque is Associate Professor of Economics at ESCP Business School, where he holds the BNP Paribas Professorship in Real Estate and serves as Director of the Monaco Real Estate Tech Innovation program. He is the Academic Director of the MSc in Real Estate and the Institute of Real Estate Finance and Management . Prior to joining ESCP in July 2018, he was Real Estate faculty at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Business. Jaime’s research interests include real estate finance, real estate technology and housing. He has published in the Journal of Economic Theory, Journal of Public Economics, Economic Theory, Real Estate Economics, and Regional Science and Urban Economics.

Professor Moatti's current work focuses on the sustainable dimension of supply chain management, as well as innovation strategies in the fashion industry. She is the author of articles (published in Strategic Management Journal, European Management Journal, and International Journal of Logistics: Research and Applications, and Management, Business Strategy and the Environment, Supply Chain Forum – An International Journal…).

Professor Zhou received the Shanghai 1000-Talents Award (2018) and consequently leads the multi-disciplinary and multi-country research in the field of big data analytics, artificial intelligence, IoT, cryptography, and transportation engineering.

Guest Professor

Prof. Edmondson is the Novartis Professor of Leadership and Management at the Harvard Business School, a chair established to support the study of human interactions that lead to the creation of successful enterprises that contribute to the betterment of society. She has been recognized by the biannual Thinkers50 global ranking of management thinkers since 2011, and most recently was ranked #3 in 2019; she also received that organization’s Breakthrough Idea Award in 2019 and Talent Award in 2017.

Join A Dynamic Ecosystem Of Corporate And Academic Research Leaders

Be a part of the ESCP global knowledge community. Benefit from the latest research at the highest level linked to companies and business and share your knowledge with colleagues from a large variety of academic specialisations and institutions around the world.

Global Executive Ph.D. candidates will be immersed in a world of knowledge:

• Participants can attend research seminars, conferences and colloquia organized by ESCP's full-time Ph.D. programme,
• Benefit from all the ecosystem of ESCP Chairs and Professorships.

Discover our multiple chairs and professorships on significant topic: Chairs & Professorship

Global Executive Ph.D. Admission

Admission requirements, a previous university degree.

A previous university degree: Masters (MBA or equivalent Masters). Non-management Masters holders are required to take additional management courses from the ESCP Executive MBA programme.

A minimum of ten years’ professional experience

A minimum of 10 years’ professional experience (at least 3 years at managerial level).

English proficiency (C1 level)

English proficiency (C1 level): courses are taught in English and all coursework must be submitted in English. IETLS: 7; TOEFL: 100 or In-house English Test (free) provided by British Council: CEFR c1*.

Admission Process

Application deadlines, for the 2024 intake.

Please contact the Global Executive Ph.D. recruitment manager, Monika Savelskyte , to receive the list of upcoming jury dates.

Individual assessment meeting with the admissions department (initial discussion in person, by phone or visio-conference, with your programme advisor or another member of the admissions team).

Applications are made online. The applications file will be made available to you following your initial discussion with your programme advisor. Please note that only complete applications will be reviewed:

• Your personal details: name, address, e-mail, telephone number
• Degree certificates or grade transcript
• Up-to-date CV
• Two reference letters, ideally one from an individual who knows you in a professional context (e.g. current or former manager) and the other by a person of your choice, if possible from an academic context (e.g. a university professor)
• English language certificate (for non-native English speakers), TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS
• Copy of passport or ID
• Application fee of €350
• Statement of purpose: 1500 - 2000 words

Your application will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee.

Following a successful review of your application, an online admission interview with the Academic Admissions Jury (Executive Ph.D. Committee) will be organised.

Admission decision

Confirmation of enrolment and payment of tuition fees (You will be asked to pay a deposit to secure your place).

Statement of purpose

Your statement of purpose should address the following questions: Why do you want to do a Global Executive Ph.D. at this point in your career? What do you expect to acquire from the programme? What are your career aspirations following the Global Executive Ph.D.?  Please describe your previous research experience, if any. What area of research are you interested in at this stage?

This programme is accessible to people with a disability

Global Executive Ph.D. Fees & Financing

Tuition fees for the 2024 intake, scholarships.

For more details, you can contact your programme advisor .

ESCP has partnerships with banks in several countries around the world. Loans at reduced rates are available for admitted candidates (final decision with the bank).

Funding may also be available in the form of scholarships or government loans in your country. Our Admissions Officer will be happy to advise you about funding opportunities.

Our on-campus teams are available to discuss tailored instalment schedules and flexible payments.

Global Executive Ph.D. Meet Us

Events - europe, fairs - america, fairs - africa / middle east, fairs - asia.

Choose start date: Start date: September 2024 Duration: Five to six years Deadline: Applications are now closed Fee: Fully funded Location: London, UK Admissions Funding and scholarships

A fully-funded PhD for aspiring scholars seeking an academic career 

We believe that rigorous academic analysis can provide practical solutions to complex problems in society. Our fully-funded PhD programme provides students with the opportunity to conduct their own research in a world-leading university, finding solutions to key challenges in modern business. As a Business School, we rank first in the UK for research environment and second for management and business students, while Imperial College London ranks first in the UK overall for research (REF 2021). 

Starting with a one or two-year Master’s in Research (MRes), depending on your chosen research area, you will gain a strong theoretical grounding and thorough research training to prepare you for the PhD. As a doctoral student you will have the benefit of supervision from leading world scholars. You will develop the expertise and research skills necessary to pursue a career in academia with previous Imperial doctoral graduates finding success in other leading universities such as Copenhagen Business School, Tsinghua University, University of Amsterdam, University College London, and The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

97% world-leading or internationally excellent research (REF 2021) #1 in the UK for research (Imperial College London, REF 2021) 1% top one per cent of business schools worldwide to have achieved triple accreditation 6 research areas Explore the programme

Advance your academic success at a world class research institution

3rd in Europe (Imperial College London, Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024)

6th in the world (Imperial College London, QS World University Rankings 2024)

#1 city for students (London, QS Best Student City Rankings 2024)

Build your career with our global reputation

With particular expertise in finance, entrepreneurship, health, and sustainable business, the Business School is recognised as leading the field. Benefit from strong industry partnerships and a diverse alumni network. 

A fully-funded programme

Every student on our Doctoral programme is offered full funding, including a full tuition fee waiver (Home/EU or Overseas fees) plus a living stipend for up to five years. Funding for a 6th year can be considered on a case-by-case basis, with the potential to undertake a teaching or research assistant studentship with one of the Business Schools research centres.  

World-class faculty

Our internationally admired faculty are leaders in their respective fields, bringing a wealth of experience and academic distinction. They are deeply invested in developing the research interests of our PhD students, fostering an environment of intellectual growth and innovation. 

Impact on industry

Working closely with businesses and governments, we drive policy and practice through inspiring collaboration and research excellence, giving you the opportunity to observe the impact of research on business and society. 

Inspiring intellectual community

Engage with a diverse cohort of fellow PhD students and researchers, creating an inspiring and collaborative environment that encourages intellectual development and professional connections. 

Programme content

The Business School Master’s in Research (MRes) is an integral part of the PhD, introducing theory and research methods in Finance, Economics and Management, providing you with a solid foundation for your doctoral studies. Depending on the research area you choose to specialise in, you will embark on a one or two-year MRes programme as shown below. 

*Please note programme content is subject to change. The modules mentioned below are just a sample of what is available in the programme.

Data Analysis Tools

This course provides students with a basic foundation in mathematics and statistics required to undertake further quantitative research methods courses. This course consists of two parts, statistics and mathematics. Topics covered include: matrix algebra; optimization; differential equations; random variables and probability distributions; moments of a random variable; probability distributions; joint, marginal and conditional distributions; functions and transformation of a random variable; hypothesis testing; univariate regression.

Systematic Reviews

When starting new research, the first step is usually a literature review: scanning what is already known about a given topic and figuring out where the gaps are. However, novice researchers tend to be anything but systematic in their literature review: they have no method for scanning the literature, and they usually have little idea of what is relevant and what is not. The Systematic Review method opens a way to create research syntheses that add real value and novel insight – in a way that is potentially publishable in its own right.

Specialist Modules

Optimisation

Stochastic Processes - This module introduces you to basic tools for modelling stochastic phenomena. The focus of the module is the theory of stochastic processes, but applications will be drawn from operations research, analytics / ML, and finance to illustrate the usage of the models for studying real-world business problems

Machine Learning for Analytics - This module gives you an overview of machine learning methods for analytics. Applications in the module will be drawn from various sources including medical applications (e.g. patient discharge from hospitals), recommender systems and the Netflix prize, advertising and marketing, estimating scofflaw rates, reputations systems and Google's PageRank algorithm, filtering, text mining, sports analytics etc.

Decision Making Under Uncertainty - This module gives you an overview of different paradigms of decision making in dynamic uncertain environments, including dynamic programming, stochastic optimisation and robust optimisation. Along with theory, applications in operations management and analytics will be introduced, with the aim of preparing you for research in these areas.

Industrial Organisation

Sustainable Behaviour - This module aims to provide you with an in-depth exposure to the emerging academic field of sustainable behaviour. You will be presented with the main methodological tool used in behavioural research (lab and field experiments) as well with the multiple articles and journals which have published cutting-edge experimental research on sustainable behaviour across a wide variety of contexts.

Consumer Behaviour - This module aims to give you a robust foundation in consumer behaviour and how it relates to marketing. The module covers topics such as how consumers process marketing communications, how consumer involvement affects decision making, and how external factors impact consumer behaviour.

Microeconomics 1

Microeconomics 2

Research methods modules

Applied Microeconometrics

Applied Microeconometrics 2

Econometrics 1

Econometrics 2

Qualitative Methods 1

Qualitative Methods 2

Quantitative Methods 2

Other elective modules

You can choose from a range of elective modules relevant to your pathway.

Asset Pricing Theory 

Corporate Finance

Consumer Behaviour

Empirical Asset Pricing

Entrepreneurship 

Financial Economics of Climate Sustainability

Machine Learning for Analytics

Machine Learning for Economic Analysis

Macroeconomics

Macro-Finance

Micro Development Economics

Organisational Behaviour

Organisation Theory 

Topics in Empirical Banking 

Topics in Environmental Resource Economics 

Topics in Health Economics

Topics in Household Finance 

Business Models and Intellectual Property*

Contemporary Topics in Health Policy*

Digital Marketing Analytics*

Healthcare and Medical Analytics*

Logistics and Supply Chain Analytics*

Optimisation and Decision Models*

Retail and Marketing Analysis*

Workforce Analytics*

*These modules are available subject to capacity and timetabling constraints in other faculties and are differently weighted to the MRes Business electives

Year one compulsory modules for Economics and Public Policy pathway

Applied Microeconometrics I  - This module will provide an introduction to the practice of applied microeconometrics. Students will learn the standard empirical methods in current use by applied researchers and be exposed to a handful of frontier approaches. The focus will be on implementation beyond simply estimating a parameter of interest: getting the standard errors right, validation and conducting appropriate robustness exercises, and adapting methods to fit new contexts.

Applied Microeconometrics II  - This module will be an introduction to some of the most important themes for students wishing to conduct their own research in Empirical Corporate Finance. For other students, this module will help students gain a better understanding of research related to your own field. Topics covered include: regression refresher, causality and randomized experiments, instrumental variables, difference-in-difference, regression discontinuity, standard errors, event studies, discrete response models, matching methods, and non-parametric methods

Econometrics I  - The module has the objective to provide the students with econometric tools necessary to conduct their empirical research and discuss fundamentals of econometric theory behind them. Students will learn how to conduct - and how to critique - empirical studies in finance, economics and related fields.

Macroeconomics  - This course covers research issues that arise in the intersection of macroeconomics and finance. Topics include portfolio choice, general equilibrium models with heterogeneous agents and dynamic asset pricing models.

Microeconomics I  - The module covers the main tools of microeconomic theory and focuses on preferences, consumer theory, choice under uncertainty, producer theory, and game theory. Time permitting, it introduces general equilibrium in competitive markets. The emphasis is on economic intuition as well as techniques. The fundamental concepts of microeconomic theory are discussed.

Microeconomics II  -   This module covers competitive equilibrium, markets with imperfect, competition and asymmetric information, general equilibrium, Social choice and mechanism design

Research Experience  – This module is intended to give students practical experience of research preparation for their dissertation the following year.  They will undertake research tasks under the supervision of a faculty member on a topic chosen by the faculty member.  Students can select those projects that fit their research interests.

Year one compulsory modules for Finance pathway

Empirical Corporate Finance  - This module will provide an introduction to the practice of applied microeconometrics. Students will learn the standard empirical methods in current use by applied researchers and be exposed to a handful of frontier approaches. The focus will be on implementation beyond simply estimating a parameter of interest: getting the standard errors right, validation and conducting appropriate robustness exercises, and adapting methods to fit new contexts.

Econometrics II    - This module will be an introduction to some of the most important themes for students wishing to conduct their own research in Empirical Corporate Finance. For other students, this module will help students gain a better understanding of research related to your own field. Topics covered include: regression refresher, causality and randomized experiments, instrumental variables, difference-in-difference, regression discontinuity, standard errors, event studies, discrete response models, matching methods, and non-parametric methods. 

Econometrics I  - The module has the objective to provide the students with econometric tools necessary to conduct their empirical research and discuss fundamentals of econometric theory behind them. Students will learn how to conduct - and how to critique - empirical studies in finance, economics and related fields.

Microeconomics I  - The module covers the main tools of microeconomic theory and focuses on preferences, consumer theory, choice under uncertainty, producer theory, and game theory. Time permitting, it introduces general equilibrium in competitive markets. The emphasis is on economic intuition as well as techniques. The fundamental concepts of microeconomic theory are discussed.

Corporate Finance  - This module is taught in two parts, starting with a historical background, and then considering the theory of investment decisions, capital structure, financial innovation, and corporate governance.

Asset Pricing Theory  - The first part of this module deals with representative investors, portfolio choice and dynamic securities markets in discrete time before covering portfolio choice in continuous time and option pricing. The second part starts from the asset pricing implications of a general equilibrium Lucas-tree economy. Then, it discusses the main asset pricing puzzles implied by these economies. Finally, we will explore optimal portfolio choice, multiple trees economies and some of the latest attempts in the asset pricing literature to solve some of these puzzles.

Empirical Asset Pricing  -   The module is intended for students with a prior knowledge of asset pricing theory, capital markets and econometrics, and will concentrate on discrete-time methods and use a variety of econometric techniques. The module will cover these econometric tools in order to empirically address meaningful economic questions.

Research Experience  - This module is intended to give students practical experience of research preparation for their dissertation the following year.  They will undertake research tasks under the supervision of a faculty member on a topic chosen by the faculty member.  Students can select those projects that fit their research interests.

Year one compulsory modules for Innovation and Entrepreneurship pathway

Introduction to the Practice of Research  - This module will introduce you to the craft of research. You will develop the skills and knowledge you need to effectively produce research questions and hypotheses, ensuring consistency between theory, research design, methods and measures, and developing a clear and compelling argument.

Qualitative Methods I  - This module covers research methods required in qualitative research. You will develop skills in all aspects of the research process, including research design, data collection, data analysis, theory building, writing up as well as reviewing papers and responding to referees. The module is essential for those who wish to author qualitative research but will also be useful for quantitative researchers.

Quantitative Methods I  - This module provides an overview of the primary quantitative methods employed in management research. It will enable you to develop the ability to interpret the results of your own research as well as to critically assess the findings presented in other studies. The emphasis will be on the practical application of different estimation models using STATA rather than on the econometrics and mathematical specification.

Organisational Behaviour  - In this module you will be introduced to a selection of most seminal papers in organisational behaviour with a particular focus on classic and contemporary theories, ongoing controversies, and ground-breaking empirical studies. The emphasis is on providing a foundational overview of the field.

Organisational Theory  - This module will expose you to the major theoretical perspectives and issues studied in organisation theory research. You will also be exposed to a set of approaches to understanding how and why organisations form, survive and grow.

Strategy  - In this module you will develop the fundamentals of strategy including the theories of competitive advantage, industry analysis, understanding of resource based view/knowledge based view, and corporate strategy.

Innovation Management  - This module will offer a thorough theoretical understanding of the key themes of innovation research, combined with practical insights into the challenges of innovation management in organisations. You will address topics ranging from technological change, creativity, the role of networks in innovation, and appropriability/value capture from innovation.

Entrepreneurship  - This module introduces students to the major theoretical threads and debates in the field of entrepreneurship. Students will learn to make connections between theory and empirical research, practice critiquing and identifying insight in research, engage with fundamental debates in the field and formulate directions how the field may be further advanced.

Year one compulsory modules for Strategy and Organisational Behaviour pathway

Elective modules for economics and public policy pathway.

Asset Pricing Theory

Decision Making Under Certainty

Econometrics I

Econometrics II 

Financial Economics of Climate and Sustainability

Machine Learning for Economics Analysis

Macroeconomics 

Microeconomics I

Microeconomics II 

Sustainable Behaviour

Topics in Empirical Banking

Topics in Environmental Resource Economics

Topics in Household Finance

Elective modules for Finance pathway

Advanced Financial Statistics

Asset Allocation and Investment Strategies

Big Data in Finance I

Big Data in Finance II

Decision Making Under Uncertainty

Econometrics II

Financial Economics for Climate Sustainability

Microeconomics II

Elective modules for Innovation and Entrepreneurship pathway

Advanced Topics in Organisational Behaviour

Corporate Sustainability

Interdisciplinary Research

Qualitative Methods II

Readings in Digital Business

Readings in Social Networks/Social Capital

Social Network Analysis

Social Data Science

Special Topics in Organisational Theory/Strategy

Elective modules for Strategy and Organisational behaviour pathway

Advanced Topics in Organisational Behaviour 

Social Network Analysis 

Research Project

During the second year, students work on their MRes project which is formally assessed and counts towards the overall MRes mark. Students are expected to approach potential supervisors from within the department’s academic staff. Students submit their proposed research project title and a brief outline by the end of September of Year two. Students submit a Progress Report in February, outlining their progress to date with the thesis. During the Summer Term, students will submit their MRes dissertation. This will be followed by an oral exam

Research plan 

When you progress from the MRes to the PhD, you will work with your supervisors, chosen based on your research interests. Your supervisors will help you develop your research question, identify research and teaching opportunities and support you through your studies and the academic job application process.  

Seminars and conferences

Being part of the School’s inspirational research community is a crucial aspect of the doctoral experience – as is gaining familiarity with cutting edge research from world-leading academics. Each department runs seminars where internal and external academics discuss their latest work.  

As well as providing insight into yet-to-be-published research, the seminars offer networking opportunities and visiting academics often lead special topic workshops for research students. The Doctoral programme also supports the participation of research students in international conferences where you can present your own research and participate in doctoral consortia. 

Early Stage Assessment 

The Early Stage Assessment (ESA) takes place in the summer of year one of the PhD and is assessed by a panel of faculty. The ESA outlines the research question, the work you have done to date and the future research activities to be carried out to complete the project. 

It consists of a written report and presentation to which all PhD students and research department faculty are invited. The purpose of the ESA is not only to assess your personal progress but it also gives you the opportunity to discuss your work at its early stages and get feedback and ideas from faculty to improve your research. 

Armed with feedback from the Early Stage Assessment, you will work intensely on your thesis, focusing on the collection and analysis of empirical data and developing theoretical frameworks. Under the guidance of your supervisors, the thesis gives you the opportunity to conduct a substantial piece of original research. 

Late stage review

The Late Stage Review (LSR) takes place in the summer of year two of the PhD and follows the same principle as the Early Stage Assessment, in that its purpose is to assess your progress and provide you with feedback and advice on the direction and scope of your research. 

Our research areas

What our students say

“The programme structure is different from many other business schools because during the first year at Imperial we study the Master’s of Research (MRes), which is focused on developing strong foundations before continuing to the PhD programme. This also gives us additional time to discover opportunities and find the right paths for our research.”

Class profile 2022

20 new students per year

51% female students

20 nationalities represented

Funding and scholarships

Request a brochure, career impact.

In recent years, our PhD students have joined leading universities, research centres and institutions such as Tsinghua University, University College London, Copenhagen Business School, the Bank of England, the University of Bath, King’s College London, National Chengchi University, the University of Sussex and Renmin University in China. Others have sought top positions in industry or founded successful start-ups.

The doctoral programme has been re-structured in recent years to focus more on academic development and it is anticipated that over the coming years placements will focus more on academia than industry.

Find out more about career outcomes

Meet your faculty

Our PhD programme provides close collaboration between leading Analytics & Operations faculty and doctoral students, developing your research interests and providing continuous support and guidance throughout the programme.  

Alexander Michaelides

Kalyan Talluri

Wolfram Wiesemann

Edward Anderson

Martin Haugh

Xiaocheng Li

Reza Skandari

Jiankun Sun

Carol Propper

Franco Sassi

Jonathan Haskel

Marisa Miraldo

Richard Green

Pedro Rosa Dias

Esther Bøler

Franklin Allen

Patrick Bolton

Ramana Nanda

Lara Cathcart

Enrico Biffis

Christopher Hansman

Clara Martinez-Toledano

Alan Hughes

Celia Moore

Markus Perkmann

Christopher Tucci

James Barlow

Ileana Stigliani

Mark Kennedy

James Eteen

Eduardo B. Andrade

Andreas Eisingerich

Rajesh Bhargave

Sven Mikolon

Michelle Rogan

Frequently asked questions, how long does it take to complete the doctoral programme.

The Doctoral programme is structured to take between four to six years full-time. In the first year, all students undertake a one or two year MRes programme depending on their chosen research area specialism. Subject to satisfactory academic progress, students then progress to the PhD which takes between 3-4 years.

When does the academic year start?

The Doctoral programme has one intake each year in September and is spread over four to six years.

Do you offer any distance learning or part-time research programmes?

It is not possible to enrol on the Doctoral programme on a part-time or distance learning basis. Students must be in attendance throughout the full period of study.

Can I transfer from my current Doctoral programme to Imperial College Business School's Doctoral programme?

It is not usually possible to transfer onto the Doctoral programme as it is unlikely that previous studies would perfectly overlap with the School’s expertise.

Can I come to Imperial College Business School as a visiting student?

Please visit Imperial College London's visiting students page .

Can I have a part-time job whilst enrolled in the programme?

The Doctoral programme is full time. Students are able to undertake part-time work if this does not break any relevant visa and/or scholarship conditions, however the programme offers a living stipend to support students during their studies.

How many students do you accept onto the Doctoral programme every year?

Admission onto the Doctoral programme is highly competitive as we accept around 15 students each year, from a total of approximately 200 applications.

Is there a workspace assigned to Doctoral students?

There is a designated workspace which includes a computer and relevant software assigned to all enrolled Doctoral students. You will share working space with other PhD students in your cohort.

How do I apply and what documents do I need to submit with my application?

All applications to the Doctoral programme are made via our online platform. You will either need to select 'Business (MRes 1YFT)' or 'Business (MRes 2YFT)' based on your research area of interest. Further information can be found on our  Doctoral programme page.

Please refer to the  How to apply page  to see application deadlines, what documents you are required to submit with your application and to view the selection process.

When is the application deadline?

To find out more about application deadlines for our Doctoral programme please  visit the How to apply page .

What do I need to include in my statement of purpose?

One of the most important parts of our application form is the ‘statement of purpose’ section. It should be no more than one or two A4 pages and should cover the following points:

Your motivation for undertaking the programme

A discussion of possible research areas that you might pursue and how these are a good fit for Imperial College Business School

What interests you most about your chosen field of study

Relevant past study, industry, or research projects

Long-term career goals

I haven't decided what area I want to specialise in for my PhD, what should I do?

You should browse the description of the different research groups in the Business School and the webpages of faculty members. This will give an overview of their research interests and current projects. The MRes gives you an opportunity to pursue potential interests through courses and a project prior to committing to the PhD

Do I need a willing supervisor prior to application?

No, although in your application you should list a member of  faculty  you have identified as a potential supervisor. You can demonstrate in your statement of purpose how your research interests are aligned to a potential supervisor and the Business School.

Checking the research profiles of faculty members and Business School projects will give you an indication of whether the Business School is a good fit for you. If no faculty are working in your area of interest it is unlikely that you would be shortlisted, as we may not be able to provide supervisory support during your PhD.

During the MRes year, you will become part of the research community at Imperial College Business School and interact with faculty and other PhD students during taught courses and at seminars, which we hope will influence and help shape your research ideas for the PhD.

Are all applicants interviewed?

Not all applications progress to the interview stage of the selection process, however we interview all shortlisted candidates before making an offer. In the case of overseas candidates we will arrange an interview by telephone or via Skype.

Is GMAT/GRE a compulsory requirement?

Yes. A GMAT/GRE score must be submitted before we will consider an application. Any applications submitted without a GMAT/GRE score will be considered incomplete until we receive a score. Please note that we do not make offers on the condition that a candidate achieves a satisfactory GMAT/GRE score. To see the GMAT/GRE scores we look for, please refer to the  Entry Requirements page .

Do you offer Doctoral funding and stipend?

We offer a fully funded Doctoral programme at Imperial College Business School – this includes a tuition fee waiver and a stipend for up to five years. The 2024-25 rate of the Graduate Teaching Assistant scholarship stipend is £25,000. Rates are reviewed annually and are expected to increase for 2025-26 in line with Research Council UK rates. Stipends are tax-free and the continuation of the stipend will depend on your satisfactory progress on the programme.

What living costs should I allow for in London?

Living costs vary considerably depending on the area of London you choose to live in and your choice of accommodation.

Read more about  estimated London living costs  and  accommodation for postgraduates .

Do you offer Doctoral scholarships?

Within Imperial, we also have funding opportunities from various external studentships, including EPSRC, ESRC, and the Imperial College President’s PhD Scholarships .

Students who are eligible for other PhD  funding opportunities  that may be available to them are expected to apply for them.

Explore more

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Keep up to date about news, events, and application deadlines for our PhD programme by joining our mailing list.

Attend an event

Wherever you are in the world, our Recruitment team holds events where you can meet staff and students, and get your questions answered. 

Start your journey

Study your doctoral programme at a global top 10 university offering world-class faculty, leadership coaching, global business experience, industry connections, specialist careers support and an exciting London location. 

Professional doctorates

Transform your professional practice into a research degree

Find out how you could study for a Professional Doctorate – also known as a 'while-you-work doctorate' – at Portsmouth 

What is a professional doctorate?

Sometimes known as a 'while-you-work doctorate', Professional Doctorates are internationally-recognised qualifications, designed for working professionals in the private and public sectors with an active interest in work-based research.

Unlike a PhD, a professional doctorate is not a pathway towards a career in academia, but an opportunity to combine your professional practice with a research degree. That means you'll complete your doctorate – conducting research relating to your current organisation, and gaining the highest level of skills and knowledge – while continuing your career.

Professional Doctorates involve both text-based study and action research. They're assessed through coursework and a final assessment in the form of a doctoral level, research-based thesis, which also includes a viva voce (oral defence).

See our professional doctorates

Explore our full list of available professional doctorates here.

• Doctorate in Biomedical Science (DBMS)
• Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA)
• Doctorate in Criminal Justice Studies (DCrimJ)
• Doctorate in Education (EdD)
• Doctorate in Health Science (DHealthSci)
• Doctorate in Medical Imaging (DMedImg)
• Doctorate in Nursing (DNursing)
• Doctorate in Pharmacy (DPharm)
• Doctorate in Security Risk Management (DSyRM)
• Doctorate in Social Work (DSW)
• Doctorate in Sport, Exercise and Health Science
• Doctorate in Sport and Exercise Psychology

Fees and funding

The cost of our professional doctorates can be found on the individual doctorate pages – click the course you'd like to study from the list above to see the full-time and part-time costs, for UK, EU and international students.

And to explore the ways in which you can fund your professional doctorate, visit our page on funding your research degree .

How to apply

Before you contact us about any of our professional doctorate courses, you'll need to have the following documentation ready:

• A personal statement
• An outline of the research topic
• Proof of your first degree and grades (officially certified and translated copies if not in English)
• Details of 2 referees or 2 references on official headed paper, one of which should be an academic reference
• Proof of your English language proficiency (if English is not your first language)
• An up-to-date copy of your CV

You can then apply for our Professional Doctorates directly from their respective course pages – choose the relevant course from the list above to start.

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Executive DBA

Register for our upcoming DBA events

• Start date 30 September 2024
• Duration 4 years
• Qualification DBA
• Study type Executive / Part-time
• Campus Cranfield campus

Participants are a carefully-selected, highly diverse group of professionals, drawn from a wide range of nationalities, industries, cultures and backgrounds. The group comes together for taught modules held at Cranfield, and stay connected throughout the programme and beyond.

Class Profile 2020/21

The cohort enjoys excellent study facilities, Cranfield’s international research perspective and its extensive alumni networks. As the research is likely to be thematic, rather than discipline-based, participants are supported throughout by a panel of faculty members to maximise the value of the programme.

The qualification is well recognised and opens doors. But, most importantly, developing a solid knowledge base and establishing new linkages has presented great new opportunities for research, consulting and teaching collaborations. Dr Gabriela Alvarez, Director, Latitude Research and Consulting.

Programme Structure

A part-time doctoral programme for experienced executives.

The programme contains a minimum of eight residential weeks over four-years, which provide the structure and support to ensure that researchers continue to progress.

The first and second year are comprised of four individual five-day modules focusing on Research Methods, co-ordinated by, and delivered at, Cranfield School of Management. The research training and researcher development input is structured into weekly blocks enabling you to work with your Supervisor and other Faculty Members for a concentrated period.

The Research Methods Training Programme allows you to develop and optimise your research capability by leveraging the wealth of knowledge and resources available at Cranfield. Five Elements are included:

• Engagement, Influence and Impact
• Governance and Organization
• Literature and Theory
• Personal and Professional Development
• Research Methodology and Methods 

The third and fourth years contain some optional workshops focusing on in-depth methodologies, writing, personal development, panel meetings, a half-week of training to prepare you for your final submission and the viva voce. Additional input is tailored to meet individual study requirements.

DBA researchers are required to attend all residential weeks at Cranfield School of Management. The expected time commitment (in addition to the residential Cohort/Campus weeks) is approximately 15-20 hours per week.

The next intake (DBA 2020 – 2025 Cohort) will commence in January 2021.

Organisational impact.

The Executive DBA is a high quality, doctoral level, research degree which has real impact in organisations and on wider policy and practice.  It is undertaken by those who are focused on practice-based careers.

You and your organisation will benefit from dedicated research on a major, often critical, organisational issue. This should have a significant impact on your organisation's management thinking, approach, processes and profitability.

You will usually come to the programme with a broad practical question which aims to tackle a particular issue within your organisation. This question will become more focused and will lead to clear findings and insights throughout the programme. The combination of a review of existing evidence, the collection of primary empirical data and engagement with practice, allows you to undertake research that will have both academic value and a real impact on practice and policy.

Talking to Your Employer about Sponsorship

For many students, obtaining sponsorship from their organisation is a fundamental element of the application process. Our experience, strengthened by the agreement of our current students and alumni, highlights that securing the support of your employer, not only boosts the overall learning experience, but also enhances future career development.

The very essence of the Executive DBA means that the supporting organisation has the opportunity to capitalise on the employee's enhanced business and leadership skills allowing future company objectives and strategies to be met.

Personal Impact

The Executive DBA is designed to provide you with a range of transferable personal and professional skills as a basis for continuing professional development. You will develop personally by engaging in the learning required to progress through the doctorate.

The programme provides a rich developmental experience. Most students find that they undergo a transition in their thinking and approach during the programme to one that is more rigorous and evidence-based. The many skills that you acquire, or in many cases build on, are sophisticated ones that will clearly differentiate you from other managers. The skills are both derived from, and are seamlessly transferable to, ongoing business situations.

This personal development means that our DBA alumni go on to reach senior positions in their careers; sometimes moving into roles in government or starting their own consultancy business. DBA graduates might also combine this with part-time teaching roles, and, we hope, maintain their relationship with Cranfield School of Management.

The Cranfield DBA Experience

A world-class reputation for quality assurance, support, environment and resources.

Our focus is on ensuring that your contribution to practice is not only of relevance to your organisation, but has the capacity to impact broader practice and/or policy within your field. To help you achieve this, the programme delivers on its world-class reputation for quality assurance, support, environment and resources.

What particularly distinguishes our Executive DBA is the level of individual attention given to each participant in the programme through a series of structured progress reviews and specialised tuition. Together, they provide participants with an enviable and possibly unique experience in the world of business education.

Quality Assurance

Our Executive DBA is a fully-resourced, structured programme with leading faculty contributing to both teaching and supervision. Launched in 1999, our Executive DBA is based upon over 17 years experience of delivering a quality programme which produces rigorous and relevant research.

As the issues addressed by Executive DBA researchers are real organisational problems, they tend to be cross-disciplinary, requiring input from a number of faculty with differing expertise. This is reflected in our use of supervisory teams rather than a single supervisor, and additional support from various research activities, centres and groups within Cranfield. This ensures you will receive the most appropriate level of support and access to a wide range of expertise with common research interests.

The School of Management’s Student Advisory Services team are committed to supporting all researchers through their learning journey from initial enquiry to graduation and beyond. Whenever you need that vital piece of information or advice they will respond directly by email or telephone. A learning portal is also available for all course materials and guidelines, accessible anywhere in the world, which is supported by the Cranfield Research Office.

The structured nature of the programme provides a clear set of milestones, which enable students to evaluate their progress and ensure they are keeping on track to complete within the timeframe.

The strength of support from other students in the cohort is invaluable. A Cohort Leader from Cranfield School of Management's academic community takes specific interest in your progress, in addition to the Programme Director, Supervisory Team and Research Training Tutors. Support is also available from the Management Information Resource Centre (MIRC) and the award winning Kings Norton Library. Through both these facilities, Cranfield offers access to a vast electronic library of business information and management resources. Our rich, online collections enable students to explore the ideas of many world respected management thinkers.

What particularly distinguishes our Executive DBA is the level of individual attention given to each participant in the programme through a series of structured panels and specialised tuition. Together, they provide participants with an enviable and possibly unique experience in the world of business education.

How to apply

You will need to submit a  research proposal  in support of your application. You will be prompted to upload your research proposal before you submit your completed application form . This should be a word file and contain the following sections:

• Title of research
• Brief description of research, including details of the management or organisational problem that your research will address (maximum 500 words)
• Aims and objectives of the research (maximum 500 words) Research question(s) (maximum 150 words)
• Literature review (maximum 1000 words) - Provide a critical analysis of the existing literature and use the literature to justify the need for your proposed research. This may address the following questions: Which literature informs your topic and why? Where specifically are you positioning your proposed research within the field? What are the key sources? What are the key theories, concepts and ideas? What are the major issues and debates about the topic? Broadly, what is currently known about the topic? What deficiencies are there in the literature and how might your proposed topic address them.
• Methodology (maximum 250 words) - Briefly describe how you would approach your data collection and analysis
• The potential impact of your research (maximum 800 words) - Who would benefit from your research? What are your plans for user engagement and communication?
• Collaboration/co-funding - Please name any potential partners for your research who might assist with your data collection and/or sponsorship. Please outline any sources of funding, applications to other bodies, etc., either secured or being sought
• Commitment to research - How do you intend to balance your research with other commitments? What agreements have you sought/secured from your employer?

Your proposal will be circulated to appropriate members of faculty for consideration.

When a member of faculty expresses interest in your proposal you can expect to receive feedback from him/her and be invited to develop your research topic further. Ideally, you will also meet your potential lead supervisor in person. We attach great importance to the researcher/supervisor relationship and this is an essential part of the recruitment process. A decision by your potential supervisor to shortlist you at this stage will require you to attend a formal interview.

Approval of your proposal by a potential supervisor does not always guarantee a place on the programme. The offer of a place is decided by the Director of the Programme and interview panel. For further guidance on this please  contact the Research Office .

Read our  Application Guide  for a step-by-step explanation of the application process from pre-application through to joining us at Cranfield.

Programme Accreditation

Get in touch

Submit an enquiry

• T: +44 (0)1234 758081

Related academics

Professor Michael Bourlakis

Director of Research and Director of the Centre for Logistics, Procurement & Supply Chain Management

Dr Nicky Yates

Senior Lecturer & Director of Doctoral Programmes (Leadership and Management)

Webinar: The Secrets of a Successful DBA Proposal – 30 November 2023

Download the DBA brochure

Student visa application guide for students outside the UK

Student visa application guide for students inside the UK

Fees & Funding

Alumni discount.

We are pleased to offer an exclusive 20% discount on all School of Management programmes including our short courses, for all Cranfield University Alumni who would like to return to study here.

Find out more

Course fees

Overseas fees.

• * This is the total fee for this course. Fees will be payable in annual instalments, with the first instalment due at registration. The payment plan for this programme is not equally split, the payment structure is: Year 1  -  £17,000 Year 2  -  £17,000 Year 3  -  £11,000 Year 4  -  £11,000 Where necessary years 5 and 6 are charged at £6,600 each or charged at £550 per month.
• The fees outlined apply to all students whose initial date of registration falls on or between 1 August 2024 and 31 July 2025.
• All prices above are on a per annum basis and do not include any  Additional Fee Element (AFE) .
• An AFE will not normally apply, although a bespoke AFE may be applied in some circumstances.
• For self funded students a non-refundable £500 deposit is payable on offer acceptances and will be deducted from your overall tuition fee.
• Additional charges will apply for extensions of registration. This will be made up of a monthly extension fee plus the AFE on a pro rata basis. Therefore the amount charged will depend on the duration of extension.
• Eligibility for Home fee status is determined with reference to UK Government regulations. As a guiding principle UK or Irish nationals who are ordinarily resident in either the UK or Republic of Ireland pay Home tuition fees. All other students (including those from the Channel Islands and Isle of Man) pay Overseas fees.

Entry requirements

In order to enrol on our four-year Executive DBA programme, you will need:

• An MBA or equivalent business-related degree
• A minimum of four years managerial experience
• For candidates for whom English is a second language: a satisfactory English language test (see more details below)

Please note: If you have alternative qualifications and extensive managerial experience you could be considered for our six-year programme option.

English language

To study for a formal award at Cranfield you will need to demonstrate that you can communicate effectively in English in an academic environment. Full details of how you can meet this requirement can be found on our English language requirements page .

Approved English tests for Executive DBA

Please note that:

• We verify all test scores with the test providers.
• We are only able to accept tests taken within two years of the course start date.
• All elements of the test results must be demonstrated in one test, we are unable to accept a combination of scores across two or more tests.
• In extremely rare circumstances we may reject a test score if one element of the test has a very low score. This would only occur if we believed this would impact on your ability to study with us or if the score did not meet UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requirements to study in the UK.

IELTS IELTS Academic , IELTS Online , IELTS for UKVI Academic , IELTS Indicator 1 (we also accept IELTS One Skill Retake tests) - 7.0 overall and minimum skill component scores of 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening, 6.0 speaking and 6.5 writing.

TOEFL TOEFL iBT (we accept TOEFL iBT, TOEFL iBT Home Edition and TOEFL iBT Paper Edition) - 100 total and minimum skill component scores of 20 reading, 20 listening, 21 speaking and 23 writing.

Cambridge Assessment English Any Cambridge Assessment English test meeting the required scores will be accepted. The following are recommended as being within the scale score range: Cambridge C1 Advanced , Cambridge C2 Proficiency - Cambridge English Scale score of 190 overall and minimum skill component scores of 175 reading, 175 listening, 175 speaking and 180 writing.

Duolingo Duolingo English Test - 130 overall and minimum integrated skill component scores of 120 literacy, 110 comprehension, 95 conversation and 85 production.

Kaplan Kaplan Test of English 2 - 505 overall and minimum skill component scores of 440 reading, 440 listening, 440 speaking and 475 writing. Cranfield applicants and offer holders are entitled to a 25% discount. Register for a test using this form to benefit from the discount.

LanguageCert LanguageCert Academic (approved by UKVI as a SELT exam) - 75 overall and minimum skill component scores of 65 reading, 65 listening, 65 speaking and 70 writing. International ESOL C1 Expert (two separate exams are available: Written (Listening, Reading, Writing) and Spoken (Speaking). These exams can be taken together or independently, however both exams must be taken to meet our requirements):

• Written and Spoken exams together - Pass overall and 33 in all skill components.
• Written exam - Pass overall and 33 in each skill components.
• Spoken exam - Pass overall and 33 in speaking skill component.

Password Password Skills Plus - 7.0 overall and minimum skill component scores of 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening, 6.0 speaking and 6.5 writing.

Pearson PTE PTE Academic , PTE Academic Online , PTE Academic UKVI - 68 overall and minimum skill component scores of 62 reading, 62 listening, 62 speaking and 65 writing.

Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English - ISE III (C1) - Overall Pass outcome.

1 Only available in China. 2 Formerly Kaplan International Tools for English (KITE).

UCL School of Management

University college london, phd in management.

Start date:  September 2024 Duration: 5 years (1 year MRes + 4 years PhD) Fees:  We offer fully funded scholarships to all admitted students Application deadline: 01 February 2024 (17:00 UK time). A late submission window closes on 05 April 2024 (17:00 UK time), although we encourage you to apply early as places are limited and applications are subject to close sooner if places are filled. Entry:  Minimum of a first class bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline. International students, please note that UCL’s English language requirement for this programme is a ‘ Level 1 ’ (IELTS and TOEFL are the preferred test, however others on the UCL recognised test list will be accepted if required) - further details regarding this can be found on the  UCL English Language Requirements  page.

PhD students pursue their studies in one of the Operations & Technology, Strategy & Entrepreneurship, Marketing & Analytics, and Organisations & Innovation groups. All four groups offer a unique education and research experience to a small number of highly motivated students, with the intent of preparing them for scholarly careers at the highest level.

PhD studies in Operations and Technology

Across the different research themes , there is a shared interest in management science, operations management and business technologies. Topics of interest include R&D management, innovation and new product development, service systems, supply chain management and healthcare operations. For candidates in this area, a degree in engineering (e.g. industrial, electrical, computer, mechanical etc), economics, mathematics, statistics or operational research is preferred. 

PhD studies in Strategy and Entrepreneurship

S&E faculty research  focuses on understanding what makes firms successful, how they cope with a complex and dynamic environment, and what leads to new business formation and growth. Doctoral training involves close collaboration between the doctoral student and faculty members on shared research interests, coursework at UCL and other institutions, and independent research. Doctoral students also benefit from the S&E group’s collaborative research community, a lively program of research speakers from other institutions, and links with researchers worldwide. Topics of interest include digitization, big data analytics, machine learning, information environment, platform ecosystems, new organisational forms, learning, innovation, competition, interorganisational relationships, corporate strategy, entrepreneurial strategy, entrepreneurship for development, social innovation. 

PhD studies in Marketing and Analytics

Topics of interest in this group include branding, retailing, advertising, pricing, product development, marketing channels, business marketing, marketing strategy and e-commerce. The researchers in this group use diverse quantitative methodologies that include big data analytics, regression analysis, choice models, field experiments and Bayesian econometrics.

PhD studies in Organisations and Innovation

O&I faculty research focuses on understanding individual and team outcomes within organisations. Group members engage with a variety of perspectives and approaches including network research, experiments and ethnographies. There is a shared interest in the topics of creativity, innovation, social networks and diversity. For applicants to the PhD programme, prior training in social science (e.g. social psychology, sociology or economics) is highly relevant. 

PhD studies in Financial Economics

Our MRes and PhD Programme in Financial Economics with UCL’s Department of Economics now has more information about how to apply and what you can expect from the programme on a brand new programme page, please see the specific entry requirements and programme structure here . 

PhD Structure

• The programme typically consists of five years of full-time study, starting with one year of modules registered as MRes. These modules are typically advanced postgraduate modules to provide rigorous methodological training to prepare students for their PhD research. Along with the School’s modules, students typically take some of these from other UCL departments (e.g., Economics, Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology), the London Business School, Bayes Business School, and Imperial College Business School.
• In addition to methods modules, students also undertake a first-year research project under the tutoring and supervision of a faculty member later in the MRes year (Term 3 + Summer period).
• Progression from MRes to PhD is not automatic . Superior performance in taught modules and independent, original research is required for progression from MRes to PhD.
• Our highly selective and small-sized PhD programme ensures that each student receives personal attention and guidance from our faculty members throughout their doctoral study. The close mentorship process forms the foundations of a successful academic career. 
• We expect our PhD graduates to have as their goal an academic career as a faculty member in a top business school or engineering department of a world-class university
• PhD applications are reviewed once a completed application form has been submitted online . 

Students take a total of 180 credits in the MRes year. This is made up of the MRes Research Project:

• MSIN0135 - MRes Research Project: 8,000-10,000 words . 105 credits.

Students take 75 credits of taught modules, of which the following three are compulsory modules:

• MSIN0131 - Research Presentation and Critical Writing Skills . 15 credits
• MSIN0132 - Seminar in Organisation Theory . 15 credits
• MSIN0240 - Designing Management Research Projects.  15 credits

Finally, students choose elective modules (15 credits each) among those offered by the School of Management, other UCL Departments (e.g., Economics, Psychology), and partner universities in London.

Students can take additional (non-credit) modules at UCL and our partners schools in the remaining years to complement their learning, but there is no requirement to take modules after the MRes year.

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, and class discussion based on case studies and other activities. Student performance is assessed through simulations, presentations, coursework, group projects, class participation, and examinations. 

Students typically study 3 compulsory modules over Terms 1 and 2. Students will also typically study 2 optional modules which may take place in Terms 1, 2 or 3. Students will also undertake a substantial research project, which would usually be undertaken over Terms 2 and 3. 

Each taught module is delivered over 10 weeks, with 3 contact hours per week comprising lecture content and interactive components. 

In addition, students typically spend approximately 6-8 hours a week for each module on assessment and independent study to further develop the skills and knowledge covered in lectures and seminars. The total number of weekly hours will vary according to the weekly activities being undertaken.

Why choose us

What our students say:.

‘The UCL School of Management PhD programme is designed to provide students with skills that lead to academic excellence. Candidates are part of a dynamic and vibrant group and benefit from the programme’s flexibility, as they can choose from a wide range of disciplines. The frequent cooperation with world-leading faculty members enhances our knowledge and skills and ultimately leads to high-quality research output, laying the foundations for a subsequent successful academic career.’ 

UCL School of Management has forged a reputation for world-leading research in management studies with 95% of the School’s research deemed to be world-leading or internationally excellent, the second highest percentage of any business school in the UK, according to the 2021 REF. 

VIDEO LIBRARY

Applications

Applying for our mres/phd programme.

Entry requirements and admissions criteria:

We seek to recruit highly motivated, ambitious students with strong educational backgrounds. The ideal candidate will have a first-class Bachelor’s degree from the UK or an overseas qualification of equivalent standard from a leading university. We encourage students from a wide variety of backgrounds (e.g, engineering, economics, business, mathematics/statistics, psychology, sociology, and anthropology, among others) to apply to our programme. Also, notice that a Master’s or graduate level degree is not required for admission, you can apply with only an undergraduate (e.g. bachelors) degree. 

In your personal statement you are expected to suggest one or more faculty members as potential supervisors. On the application form you may see that it states that it is preferred that you contact potential supervisors beforehand – you do not need to do so. In fact, applicants are discouraged from randomly contacting individual faculty members or potential supervisors when applying to our programme. All applications are first evaluated by a joint admissions committee, so contacting potential supervisors separately will not increase your chances.

All MRes/PhD applicants are normally expected to take either a GMAT test or GRE test (UCL’s institution code is 3344, but also make sure you include a scanned copy of your test result on your online application), although the School has no minimum score requirements.  

We also require you to submit IELTS or TOEFL scores if English is not your first language. Our School requires a “Level 1” English qualification which corresponds to:

• IELTS: Overall grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each of the sub-tests.
• TOEFL: Score of 92, plus 24/30 in the reading and writing subtests and 20/30 in the listening and speaking subtests.  

Application Deadline

The application window closes 01 February 2024 (17:00 UK time) and a late submission window closes on 05 April 2024 (17:00 UK time). We advise those interested in the programme to apply before 01 February 2024, as those applying in the late submission window will only be considered if there are still places remaining.

Application Procedure

Apply via UCL Postgraduate Admissions System here . When starting the application, you must select the MRes option. In addition to filling out the online application form, please upload a copy of the following documents:

• Official Transcripts of Grades / Course marks
• A 2-3 page personal statement or research proposal* that clearly indicates: (i) which research group you are interested in (i.e., Organisations & Innovation, Strategy & Entrepreneurship, Marketing & Analytics or Operations & Technology, (ii) your research interests and preliminary research ideas, (iii) potential faculty member(s) you may want to work with (this is a suggested list, you don’t need to contact potential supervisors beforehand), and (iv) your motivation to do a PhD.
• Your  GRE / GMAT  score report**
• Your IELTS/TOEFL score report, if English is not your first language.

* While submission of a full research proposal is not required, you can send us one if you have already written it up.

** You can submit your application even if you don’t have a GRE/GMAT score —simply indicate when you plan to take the test. Funding/Scholarships

We offer fully funded five year MRes/PhD scholarships in the UCL School of Management to all admitted students. The scholarship is open to all nationalities. It covers all tuition fees, and includes an annual stipend of £25,000, which is tax-free.

Additional costs 

This programme does not have any compulsory additional costs outside of purchasing books or stationery, printing, thesis binding or photocopying.  

Students may have the opportunity to participate in conferences in the UK and internationally. The UCL School of Management provides MRes/PhD students with an annual budget for conferences, which students will use to cover the travel, accommodation, food and other costs whilst at conferences, in line with UCL’s expenses policy. 

Apply today

For queries about the MRes/PhD Programme that are not addressed on our web pages, please contact [email protected] .

Frequently Asked Questions about the UCL School of Management MRes/PhD Programme

Programme Information

Application process, admissions requirements, further information.

If you have any other questions regarding the programme that are not addressed on our web pages please email the programme team ( [email protected] )

What Is An Executive PhD Program For Working Professionals?

If you are a seasoned professional, and think that you have more experience what an executive MBA can give you, you may be thinking about getting an Executive PhD.

In this post, we explore how this specialised doctoral program blends rigorous academic research with real-world business applications, offering a dynamic pathway for business leaders to elevate their expertise and impact.

Join us as we unravel the details of this prestigious program designed for the modern executive.

What Is An Executive PhD Program?

An Executive PhD Program is a unique beast, designed for seasoned professionals who are ready to elevate their impact.

Picture this: you’re a senior manager with extensive professional experience, but you crave something more, something that a traditional MBA program can’t offer.

Imagine diving into a program that marries the rigors of a doctoral program with the practicalities of the business world.

The Executive PhD in Business, often housed in a prestigious college of business or a business school, is tailored for those who don’t just want to learn about business administration but want to shape it.

The heart of the program lies in its approach to research. You won’t just be a doctoral student; you’ll be an applied researcher, delving into complex business problems. In executive PhD, you usually focus on areas with relevance to your professional work like: 

• Strategic management,
• Business analytics,
• International business, and

You’ll join a cohort of like-minded professionals, each bringing their own wealth of knowledge and leadership experience.

Executive PhD is designed to be completed while you continue working. This means you can apply your newfound knowledge in real-time, transforming your workplace even as you study.

The dissertation process in the Executive PhD is not just about producing new knowledge; it’s about employing rigorous research methods that blend theory and practice.

Faculty will support and guide you as you produce publishable research that employs varied qualitative and quantitative research methods.

How Does Executive PhD Program Work?

Embarking on an Executive PhD program is like stepping into a new realm where academic rigour meets real-world business acumen. 

Designed for working professionals, particularly those with substantial leadership experience, this program allows you to continue your career while pursuing an advanced degree. Think of it as a bridge linking the world of academia with the dynamic landscape of business leadership.

As you delve into the program, you’ll find it is meticulously structured to cater to the needs of seasoned business professionals.

Unlike traditional PhD programs, the Executive PhD is often part-time and may offer online classes, making it more accessible for those balancing a demanding career. 

You become part of a cohort, a group of like-minded individuals who not only share your professional interests but also contribute to a rich learning environment through their diverse experiences.

One of the program’s core elements is its focus on applied research. Here, you’re not just a doctoral student; you’re an applied researcher addressing complex business challenges.

The dissertation, a pivotal part of the doctoral journey, is not merely an academic exercise. Instead, it’s an opportunity to explore and contribute new knowledge to your field, using rigorous research methods that blend both qualitative and quantitative skills.

The Executive PhD in Business Administration, for instance, might offer concentrations in areas like:

• International business, or
• Organisational behaviour.

This specialisation allows you to tailor your studies to your specific research interests and career goals. 

The business school faculty, often composed of esteemed professionals and academics, provide invaluable guidance, ensuring your research is both impactful and relevant.

Completing an Executive PhD gives you added credibility in the business community. It’s a testament to your ability to combine extensive professional experience with academic insights, elevating your status to that of a thought leader.

This degree goes beyond mere academic achievement; it’s about enhancing your capacity to influence and innovate in today’s complex business environment.

What Is The Difference Between Executive PhD and Traditional PhD?

When you compare an Executive PhD with a traditional PhD, you’re looking at two distinct paths converging at the same destination – a doctoral degree, but with different journeys.

The Executive PhD is a newer concept, designed with working professionals in mind, especially those who have already carved a niche in their field and are looking to deepen their expertise.

The traditional PhD, often found in academia, is a full-time, immersive program focusing on developing new knowledge and research skills. It’s ideal for those aiming for a career in academia or research-intensive roles.

The journey typically involves a deep dive into a specific area of study, with a significant emphasis on original research and contributing new insights to the field.

On the other hand, the Executive PhD, typically offered by business schools or colleges of business, is tailored for senior managers and business leaders with extensive professional experience.

This program blends the rigour of doctoral education with practical business applications. It’s a part-time, more flexible option, often including online classes, allowing you to maintain your professional commitments while pursuing your degree.

A key difference lies in the nature of the dissertation. In a traditional PhD, the focus is on theoretical research, contributing new academic knowledge.

In contrast, the Executive PhD dissertation often involves applied research, addressing real-world business challenges, and employing varied qualitative and quantitative research methods. It’s not just about theory; it’s about applying that theory to practice.

Additionally, the Executive PhD program offers concentrations in areas like:

• Strategic management, or
• International business.

Aside from these, you are also free to align your studies with the specific interests and career goals of business professionals.

The cohort model of the Executive program also fosters a collaborative learning environment, where you learn not just from the curriculum but from the diverse experiences of your peers.

While both paths lead to a doctoral degree, the Executive PhD is designed for those ready to apply their expertise in new and fulfilling ways, blending their professional experience with academic rigour to become more impactful leaders in the business community.

Is Executive PhD Better Than Traditional PhD?

An executive PhD and a traditional PhD are like two highly specialised tools, each designed for a specific job. The question of which is ‘better’ depends largely on your professional goals and where you see yourself in the future.

An Executive PhD, offered by many a business school or college of business, caters to seasoned business professionals.

It’s a program designed for those who have already climbed the corporate ladder and are looking to further enhance their skills in executive leadership, strategic management, or business analytics.

The beauty of this program lies in its practicality.

You learn theories and then apply them directly to your current role, making the learning process immediately relevant and impactful. The cohorts are usually smaller, fostering a more intimate and collaborative learning environment.

On the other hand, a traditional PhD program is typically more research-focused and theoretical. It’s ideal if you’re aiming for a career in academia or a field that demands a high level of specialised research.

Here, you dive deep into a specific area, with the goal of producing new knowledge, often through extensive dissertation work.

Ultimately, the choice between an Executive PhD and a traditional PhD hinges on your career trajectory.

If you’re a business professional looking to elevate your existing expertise and apply it in new and fulfilling ways, an Executive PhD could be the perfect fit. If your aspirations lie in academia or in a research-intensive role, a traditional PhD might be the better route.

Each program offers a different set of benefits and caters to different needs, making them both valuable in their own right.

Wrapping Up: Both Traditional and Executive Ph.D Are Great

Executive PhD programs stands as a beacon for experienced professionals seeking to deepen their expertise while continuing their career.

It uniquely combines academic rigour with practical business insights, making it an ideal choice for those aspiring to reach new heights in leadership and innovation. 

Executive PhD programs not only enhances knowledge and skills but also opens doors to new opportunities, solidifying its graduates as influential leaders and thinkers in the ever-evolving landscape of the business world.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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Professional doctorates

Professional doctorates are aimed at working professionals who have advanced research interests, and would like to use applied research to solve problems in their field.

They allow you to study for a number of years to achieve an internationally recognised qualification and an advanced level of skills and knowledge.

They are sometimes referred to as a “doctorate by practice” or “industrial doctorate”. A good example in the UK is the EngD or Doctorate of Engineering, where the research undertaken relates to a topic specified by an industrial sponsor.

Our most popular professional doctorates are in the following areas:

• Doctor of Clinical Psychology (DClinPsychol)
• Doctor of Engineering (EngD) - Offshore Renewable Energy
• Doctor of Engineering (EngD) - Sensor and Imaging Systems

For a full list of available doctorates, check our degree finder:

Find a research programme

Executive Education

Real-world teaching and learning for individuals and businesses.

Across our open and custom offerings, all of our programmes are designed to challenge, inspire and transform your thinking.

Open programmes

Open programmes are held throughout the year, exploring a broad range of business topics.

Custom programmes

Using a partnership approach, we design and deliver a custom development programme to meet your objectives.

International partnerships

Work collaboratively with us on engaging and innovative experiences for learners.

Upcoming Programmes

Ai for senior managers in financial services.

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As AI risks begin to permeate almost every aspect of business, it becomes increasingly important for Senior Managers in Financial Services to consider their approach towards training and skills development to effective address these changes.

Ukrainian Women's Leadership Programme

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This 3-day leadership programme, delivered over 4 days, is for Ukrainian women displaced by the current conflict and living in Scotland.

Global Governance of Law and Technology

Join us in person for this five-day summer programme run in partnership with the School of Law and the Edinburgh Futures Institute (EFI). It brings together business leaders, policy makers, advanced graduate students and professionals to explore the rapidly evolving legal landscape in AI, data, space and the digital economy.

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Download brochure

Executive phd.

• Diploma Doctor of Philosophy
• Mode Part-time (blended)
• Course date May 2025
• Duration 4 years

The part-time Executive PhD programme in Private Sector Development (preferably for Emerging Economies) allows working professionals and researchers with full-time or part-time jobs to combine their careers with obtaining a PhD. The programme provides advanced training in the theory and skills crucial to private sector development, design and research. As the highest academic qualification, obtaining a PhD will improve your career prospects both in academia and in business. In addition, you will make an original contribution to your field of interest that will add to previous research. During the programme, you will benefit from the extensive knowledge and expertise of the key lecturers and supervisors in the programme, who are leading scholars in the fields of the research themes. By joining the programme, you will become part of the stimulating and challenging research community of Maastricht University School of Business and Economics (SBE) and Maastricht School of Management (MSM). Research focus Within the Executive PhD programme, the PhD candidate’s research should focus on Private Sector Development, ideally within the context of emerging markets. Within this area topics may relate to the following themes: 

• Private sector development (in general)
• Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Digitisation
• Educational Development
• Globalisation, Value Chains and Industrial Policy
• Inclusive and Sustainable Development
• Leadership, Change and Organisational Development

Accreditation

Maastricht School of Management (MSM) is part of the Maastricht University School of Business and Economics (SBE). SBE has been awarded three prestigious accreditations, AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA, resulting in what is known as the Triple Crown accreditation. Only 1% of business schools worldwide can boast this honour, many of which are SBE partner institutes.

Reasons to follow this programme

• Advance the current state-of-the-art and produce new knowledge
• Combine your current career with obtaining a PhD
• Improve your career prospects
• Receive coaching from leading scholars

Ask Iris Weijenberg PhD Admissions Team

Click here to register for the webinar

Doctorate in Organizational Change

A PhD That Makes an Impact

Break free from the confines of traditional leadership and management models and develop radical new ways of working. Earn a US-accredited Doctorate of Philosophy through part-time study over a five-year journey of inquiry.

Changing the world through action inquiry

The Doctorate in Organizational Change is a practice-based doctorate for those who want to make an impact that matters.

The people who seek out this transformative doctorate degree are usually those who feel a sense of emptiness about their professional lives. Tired of the relentless pursuit of accumulation and profit, they wish to explore some deeper territories beyond conventional organizational needs.

Key program features

Flexible part-time study

Hybrid / 5 years

A community-based approach to learning

Dedicated supervisor support

Access to world-renowned, research-active faculty

Your DOC at a glance

Executive education as we know it is typically based on teaching existing theories, leadership models and tools. As theory advances, course content evolves, and business schools like Hult teach progressive topics about innovation, technology, and social change.

What our doctoral programme offers is the opportunity to go beyond the confines of those traditional leadership and management models. To undergo a deep personal and professional transformation over a five-year phase of inquiry.

We invite participants to draw upon the family of methods commonly called Action Research or Action lnquiry, supported by faculty supervisors.

Phase 1 - Engaging in Inquiry

Inquiry Proposal

Substantiate your acceptance paper and subsequently develop your 8,000 word inquiry proposal.

Three workshops covering research paradigms; ontology, epistemology, writing skills, methodology & ethics.

28 hours group supervision + 4 hours individual supervision.

Phase 2 - Developing Inquiry

Transfer Paper

Establish a rigorous basis for your inquiry and submit a 20,000 word transfer paper at the end of this phase.

Five faculty-led workshops exploring forms of inquiry & presentation + advanced writing skills.

28 hours group supervision + 6 hours individual supervision

Phase 3 - Testing Propositions

Thesis Preparation

Get your work out into the world. Present to academic peers, external practitioners and academic conferences. Relay emerging insights to DOC peers.

Participant designed & led workshops supported by faculty.

34 hours group supervision + 32 hours individual supervision (8 hours post-Viva)

Dissertation and Viva

Dissertation

80,000 word dissertation submission

Bi-annual progress report to be discussed with faculty supervisor. Mock viva in front of peers.

Final Viva to defend your work in front of a doctoral panel including faculty and external practitioners.

Meet the Deans and Faculty

Faculty at Hult teach and help students apply tools and theories to solve major, contemporary business problems. The faculty selected to teach the Doctorate in Organizational Change are award-winning researchers in both academic- and practitioner-related channels.

• Dr. Dina Dommett , Dean of Faculty & Doctoral Programs
• Dr. Kerrie Fleming, DOC Academic Director
• Dr James Traeger, Faculty Supervisor
• Dr Steve Marshall, Faculty Supervisor
• Dr Katherine Semler, Faculty Supervisor
• Dr Margaret Gearty, Faculty Supervisor
• Dr. Geoff Mead, Faculty Supervisor
• Dr. Gill Coleman, Faculty Supervisor
• Dr. Kathleen King, Faculty Supervisor
• Dr. Nick Wildling, Faculty Supervisor
• Dr. Matt Gitsham, Faculty Supervisor
• Dr. Josie Gregory, Faculty Supervisor
• Dr. Richard Hale, Faculty Supervisor

We're here to help! Find the answers to your most commonly asked questions below.

If you can't find an answer to your question then please contact us.

Where is the program accredited?

The Doctorate in Organizational Change PhD is a US degree, accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), a regional accrediting organization recognized by the US Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Regional accreditation is considered the most prestigious form of accreditation in the US. As a US degree, the Hult PhD can be attested anywhere.

Can I still apply if I have a master's in a non-business-related field?

We ask for a Master's Degree to demonstrate your capability for academic writing and commitment to postgraduate study. While many of our doctoral students hold Master's Degrees in business or MBAs, several participants have held Master's Degrees in a range of fields from cardiology to coaching; sustainability to social psychology.

What is the difference between a PhD and a DBA?

A DBA, like its PhD counterpart, requires advanced research skills that lead to a dissertation or thesis and the conferral of a doctoral title. However, DBA programs often focus on the application of theory to a real-world business problem and are aimed at working professionals with years of extensive managerial experience. For more information on the difference between a PhD and a DBA, take a look at this article on the Hult Blog .

When will my supervisor be assigned?

Supervisor-student matches are communicated to new students immediately after matriculation.

Can I get a scholarship?

Currently, Hult does not provide sponsorship or scholarships for our doctoral programs. Note that Hult and Ashridge alumni are eligible for a 10% discount.

Will I need to publish my dissertation to get my degree?

No, we do not require the publication of research output in journals. The Hult DOC requires all research output to be of publishable standard—that is, of a standard that is acceptable by journals and conferences. While you are not required to publish, students are strongly encouraged to present at prestigious conferences.

What is the cost of the program? What are the payment options?

The program costs £55,000, plus a £350 application fee. There are payment plans available to spread the cost over the duration of the program.

How often will I have lectures? When are they held?

You will meet at the Hult Ashridge campus for one 5 day residency each year for faculty led, participant led and group supervision. Other compulsory workshops will take place online and the exact dates are already scheduled for the four year duration of the PhD. The remaining group and individual supervision takes place online as a flexible arrangement between the supervisor, group and individuals.

Can I transfer credits from a previous or current doctorate program?

Transfer credits from a previous or current doctorate are not accepted into the program.

When I found Ashridge, what struck me was the modular structure of the program, its onsite teaching, and a cohort of other apprentice researchers and small tutor groups to exchange ideas and experience. This all contributes to a strong sense of community. I’m still regularly in touch with my group and supervisor today.

Andrew Mountfield

average completion rate for Doctorate in Organizational Change

pass rate in highest achieving cohort

average cohort size on a Doctorate in Organizational Change intake

Accreditation

Delivered at our UK Ashridge Campus, the Hult Doctorate in Organizational Change is a US degree, accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), a regional accreditation body recognized by the US Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Regional accreditation is recognized as the most prestigious accreditation in the US. As a US-accredited degree, Hult’s DBA can be attested anywhere.

Hult is recognized by business education’s three most prestigious international accrediting bodies: The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), Association of MBAs (AMBA), and EQUIS (The European Quality Improvement System). We are the first business school in the US to achieve this triple accreditation, which is held by just one percent of business schools worldwide.

Download Brochure

Download a brochure for an in-depth look at Hult’s DOC program.

Ask Us Anything

Our admissions team are ready to answer any questions you might have. If you'd like talk to our admissions officer, please enter your details and we’ll be in touch.

Apply by 30th September 2023

There is still time to apply for January 2024. Writing your personal statement is the best place to start. Talk to our admissions officer, Caroline Monfort, for more details.

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Executive PhD

Use Your Experience to Create Next-Level Impact

The Executive PhD is designed for seasoned business professionals who are ready to apply their expertise in new and fulfilling ways. Whether you’re looking to elevate what you can do in your current role or you want to branch out into consulting, teaching, or conducting research, the Executive PhD program will give you added credibility to become a more impactful thought leader. 

Value Proposition Description

Elevate your impact by combining your extensive professional experience with WPI’s Executive PhD program. In our flexible, course-based program, you’ll work closely with a cohort of fellow students whose interests and initiative match your own.

Additionally, you choose from one of three concentrations in the Executive PhD program: Entrepreneurship, Information Technology, and Operations Management. Faculty will support and guide you as you produce publishable research that employs varied qualitative and quantitative research methods with your work as the applied research context. You’ll master well-defined, research-based approaches that are grounded in academic methods to increase your influence in your industry or professional path.

Research methods for a business PhD requires a different, but equally rigorous, set of skills than other doctoral programs. As an Executive PhD candidate, you will learn and apply rigorous research methods, gaining experience in analyzing data and understanding human factors, and applying qualitative and quantitative skills for the most effective outcomes.

Resources: Explore the Executive PhD

Learn more about how the Executive PhD program works, WPI Business School labs, and our faculty expertises.

• Ron Welter ’87, ’02 (MS), ’14 (MBA), Executive PhD Student

• Scorpio Rogers, Executive PhD Student

Required Executive PhD Courses

3 credits  

This course introduces PhD students to business problems and the nature, scope, and purpose of research and research methodologies to study those problems. Topics include research approaches and designs, data types and their collection, measurement approaches, testing procedures, and interpreting and presenting findings. The ethics of various methods and data collection procedures are covered, as is the Institutional Review Board (IRB) process. Students will investigate applications of research methods to specific problems within their interest area, using qualitative and quantitative designs.  They will also read example articles that use the research approaches covered. This is a three-credit course.   

Prerequisite: Admission to the Business School PhD program or to another WPI PhD program.   

Capturing and analyzing rich sets of qualitative (descriptive, non-numerical) data is typically required to investigate complex business cases, from discovering opportunities for innovation to identifying root causes of business problems. While quantitative business data is increasingly available, qualitative data is often the source of the deeper understanding needed for exploring, explaining, and developing theories for complex socio-technical business environments that dominate our digital economy. This course focuses on methods for collecting and analyzing qualitative research data with the purpose of enabling students to make the novel discoveries that characterize PhD research in business. Students will become familiar with methods for collecting (e.g., interviews and focus groups) and analyzing (e.g., coding techniques and case study analysis methods), as well as the software packages that aid in qualitative data organization and analyses. They will understand which collection, coding, and analysis techniques to use in which situations, how to interpret results, and how data collection and analysis methods affect research results. These skills are critical for understanding how business can contribute to solving the large, societal problems within and across disciplines and industries. This is a three-credit course.   

Prerequisite: Admission to the Business School PhD program or to another WPI PhD program, BUS 631 or equivalent knowledge 

Developing predictive behavioral models, which heavily rely on quantitative (numeric) data, are a major success factor in helping businesses develop competitive products and services. This course focuses on methods for collecting and analyzing quantitative research data with the purpose of enabling students to make the novel discoveries that characterize PhD research in business. Students will become familiar with one or more internationally utilized statistical software packages and with the array of statistical analysis techniques in them. They will understand which statistical analysis techniques to use in which situations, how to interpret the output from these packages, and how data collection and analysis methods affect research results. In our increasingly data intensive business environment, these skills are critical for understanding business data and using that understanding to design better processes and systems and to make better decisions within and across industries. This is a three-credit course.   

This course is offered every semester for cohort students as they start their research studies. It bridges between students’ methods courses and the start of their 30 dissertation credits. It is conducted in seminar format with a focus on students presenting the progress on their research studies and discussion among the class about appropriate research designs and analyses. This course can be taken multiple times. This is a three-credit course. 

Prerequisite: Admission to the Business School PhD program or to another WPI PhD program, BUS 631 or equivalent knowledge, BUS 632 or BUS 633 or equivalent knowledge. 

Available Executive PhD Concentrations

Entrepreneurship encompasses opportunity seeking and identification, financing new enterprises, corporate venturing and other related topics. Research subjects address the conceptualization of new venture business models through to formulating exit strategies. Special areas of emphasis include technology entrepreneurship, intellectual property commercialization, international and cross-cultural studies, social entrepreneurship, and issues associated with trans-generational entrepreneurship in family business. For more information, please contact Professor Rosanna Garcia .

Students will learn to use qualitative and quantitative methods to develop and apply theories regarding design, implementation, and use of advanced information systems and technologies with the goal of developing and publishing new information technology knowledge.  Students will study information technology and how it affects individuals, organizations, and society. By working closely with WPI’s Information Technology scholars, students will learn to conduct theoretically sound information technology research that addresses real business problems, apply for research grants, and teach information technology courses. WPI’s Information Technology scholars will involve PhD candidates in their research activities in various organizations in the region, including those in the technology, healthcare, financial, and public sectors. For more information, please contact Associate Professor Soussan Djamasbi . 

Students will pursue research in the areas of management sciences, operations research, business analytics, health care management, supply chain management, and decision analysis. The operations area undertakes research on decision-making through quantitative modeling of operations functions in businesses. Research topics cover all levels of business decision-making, from operation systems design and technology choices to day-to-day scheduling and performance measurement. The program emphasizes research that focuses on real business problems and maintains a balance between theory and practice. This concentration is designed to train PhD students in fundamental and applied business modeling and analytical thinking. For more information, please contact Professor Joe Zhu . 

Meet our Faculty

WPI provides an environment that values both teaching and research, which is ideal for me. I enjoy teaching at WPI because students are interested in learning and willing to work hard. My teaching focuses on how business, healthcare, and nonprofit organizations can best use computing technologies, such as database systems, electronic health records systems, and mobile apps. Students in my classes learn to design computing applications that meet the needs of organizations.

I specialize in user experience and decision-making research, focusing on uncovering the intricacies of human cognition to understand the factors that enhance or impede the effective use of information technologies.

I love teaching entrepreneurship because of the amazing innovations that students ideate and then create businesses around. I like the quote attributed to both Homer (the philosopher, not the father of Bart) and Steve Jobs, "The journey is the reward." I'm honored to be able to guide the WPI students through their journeys of not only learning about business ownership, but also actually building something - whether it’s a prototype, a minimally viable product (MVP) or a company. Being in a university setting provides students with a safety net to fail fast and pivot thei

I enjoy teaching at WPI because students bring a lot of energy and enthusiasm to their learning; I am also inspired by their optimism. My teaching also reflects topics that motivate me:  detailed process design in our Industrial Engineering program, exploring the implications of operational excellence in our graduate programs, and advancing health care systems. 

Joe Zhu is Professor of Operations Analytics in the Business School, Worcester Polytechnic Institute. He is an internationally recognized expert in methods of performance evaluation and benchmarking using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), and his research interests are in the areas of operations and business analytics, productivity modeling, and performance evaluation and benchmarking. He has published and co-edited several books focusing on performance evaluation and benchmarking using DEA and developed the DEAFrontier software.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• No, the GRE or GMAT are not required, but average score for admitted students is 630 if you plan on submitting.
• Undergraduate and graduate transcripts (Executive PhD students are expected to have a relevant master’s degree) 
• Two letters of recommendation 
• Statement of Purpose (Why do you want a PhD and what research topics, based on your experience, are of interest to you?) 
• Resume 
• Application fee of $70 
• Interview is not required 
• This is a research degree, thus much of the time, effort, and credits are research credits, rather than course credits.  The 60 credits are distributed as follows: 
• BUS 631 Research Methods and the Research Process 
• BUS 632 Qualitative Research Methods  
• BUS 633 Quantitative Research Methods  
• BUS 651 Seminar on Designing and Conducting Research Studies   
• 18 credits of other pre-dissertation work, which will be some mix of directed research credits and additional courses as worked out with your advisor 
• 30 credits of dissertation research during which you are working on a substantial research project with guidance from your advisor 
• There is no specific residency requirement but Executives are expected to be able to come to campus to work with their advisor at least several times per year.  
• Thus, we are primarily recruiting Executives from the Northeast U.S. area.   
• This is not a fully online degree. 
• Some classes are in-person, some online classes, and some hybrid, none at this point are on weekends. 
• Note: The degree is research focused, so classes are, at most, half of the credit hours. 
• Senior executives with 15+ years’ work experience, who are interested in studying some large problem in their area of expertise.  Since this is a research degree, the Executives with a good fit to the program will have a strong motivation to work on an important and impactful problem related to their experience.  
• 60 credits beyond a master’s degree. Cost is $1610 per credit. 
• 4-5 years.  We expect the Executives in the program to continue working, and that the research problem they select likely overlaps with their work interests.
• This is a PhD with the same standards for quality and depth of thinking and investigation as in our regular PhD program.  For executives, we are expecting broader, more practice-related topics drawn from their extensive industry experience.  
• Unfortunately funding is not available for this degree.
• Yes, with more flexibility in the research process and less in the course work. 
• WPI generally expects 10-12 hours of work during each week per course.  
• Some classes may be in person.  In general, we expect PhD Executives to be engaged in the program, and available to come to campus as needed (but not necessarily on a fixed, regular schedule).  
• Yes.  There is likely to be a synergistic relationship between your research and your job.  Note that you cannot share the work of other students with your employer.  
• The Executive PhD starts with the four cohort classes.  Through these classes, you will start to meet the faculty and identify an advisor who you want to work with and who wants to work with you.  While you might identify an advisor early on, that is not required.  

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• PhD Programs

Executive PhD in Business

A part-time, accelerated phd program that combines real-world business with world-class research.

Today's business executives face unprecedented challenges that require uncommon leadership and the ability to gain deep insight into the issues that define the global economy.

Bentley's part-time Executive PhD in Business delivers an intellectually rigorous and critically relevant academic opportunity for seasoned professionals. The program develops a new breed of high-achieving industry leaders who combine business acumen with a research-driven mindset. Graduates will earn more than a valuable credential. They will gain the rare ability to identify the most consequential of challenges, the analytical toolset to reach data-driven decisions, and the insights to manage change in any business or organization. 

Program Attributes

Earn your PhD on a schedule that allows you to maintain your high-powered career and busy life.

Accelerated

Graduate in three years, far faster than traditional five-year PhD programs.

Virtual classes can be taken from home, the office, or anywhere you want. Face-to-face sessions bring students and faculty together twice each semester.

Cohort-Based

Grow your network by studying with the same dedicated group of peer business leaders over the course of your program.

Learn more and take the next step

Why an executive phd.

Relevancy and Rigor

Bentley's Executive PhD provides an unparalleled opportunity to access the doctoral study of business, separating accomplished professionals and strong performers from their peers. The Executive PhD program offers industry leaders access to an enriching academic experience, provides the  tools and skills to claim greater agency over future opportunities, dedicates meaningful time to reengage in learning and researching, and culminates with the unique opportunity to create new knowledge through a formal dissertation. 

Growth and Opportunity

Graduates will leave Bentley with an enhanced ability to identify and address the most consequential of challenges, the analytical skills that will help executives to quickly reach informed decisions, and the advanced management skills needed to effectively implement critical change in an evolving, dynamic, global organization .

Why Bentley?

Proven reputation.

A history of educating and elevating business leaders who make an immediate and lasting impact across all industries.

Expert Faculty

World-class researchers in fields such as leadership, experience design, business analytics, accounting, entrepreneurship and more.

Leading Technology

Access to an unmatched collection of learning labs, where you will leverage the latest data, research and modeling tools.

Program Structure

Program Information and Details

The Executive PhD in Business is a part-time, accelerated and flexible three-year program that will allow you to earn a doctorate while continuing to grow your career. 

To learn details of the program, view our curriculum map, and learn about the program's three focus areas (Leadership, Business Analytics, and Experience Design), please visit the curriculum page .

  Learn More about the Curriculum and Focus Areas

Admission Requirements

• Master’s degree required
• Minimum eight years work experience
• Demonstrated leadership experience in business

Application Requirements (Application Opens on October 2, 2023)

• All academic transcripts
• GMAT or GRE scores (optional)
• Personal statement
• Two letters of recommendation
• Application fee ($150)

Following the initial application:

• Finalists will be invited to participate in a research webinar and asked to submit an 8 to 10 page research proposal. This research proposal will serve as an early preview of a dissertation topic.
• Early admission deadline of January 4, 2024
• Final deadline of March 13, 2024
• Finalists will be notified of advancing to the next round on a rolling basis.
• The program is designed to be completed in three years over the course of nine semesters. The total cost of the three-year program is $153,000, or $17,000 per semester.
• The program cost includes tuition, books and software.
• Students are responsible for the cost of travel and lodging associated with attending the required immersion weekends. 

Learn more about Tuition and Fees, Refund Policy, Payment and Financing Options

How does this program differ from Bentley’s PhD in Business and PhD in Accounting?   This program allows students to maintain their career while earning their PhD in a flexible, accelerated, part-time format. 

What are the on-campus requirements? In years one and two of the program, there are a pair of two-day residential immersion experiences on Friday/Saturday each semester, including summers.

How do I find a faculty adviser? Students will meet a variety of faculty during their orientation and will be matched with faculty advisers in their first semester.

How do the three focus areas work with the PhD? Students will pick one of these areas (Leadership, Business Analytics, Experience Design) for course work and research leading toward their dissertation. 

What is the deadline to apply?  The application process for this program extremely competitive. We encourage all students to complete their application as early as possible. The early admission application deadline is January 4, 2024. All other applications are due by March 13, 2024.

Why an Executive PhD in Business?

Program Director Jill Brown covers some of the ways an Executive PhD could help advance students in their careers and academic pursuits. 

Work With World-Class Experts

Dr. William Gribbons

Teaching interests include: Human Factors; Product Strategy and Innovation; Design Ethics  

Dr. Tatiana Manolova

Teaching interests include: Competitive Strategy; Global Strategy; International Entrepreneurship

Dr. Mingfei Li

Teaching interests include: Applied Statistics; Applied Game Theory; Health and Business Analysis

for more information

Jill A. Brown (PhD, University of Georgia) is the Hieken Professor of Business Ethics and Professor of management at Bentley University. Her scholarly interests include ethics, corporate social responsibility, social entrepreneurship, corporate governance and strategic leadership. Prior to her career in academia, Brown was a commercial banker and consultant.

Please email me to schedule a one-on-one meeting .

Learn More about our Executive PhD Program

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Executive PhD in Business

Why earn a phd.

A doctoral degree can help you join the academic world, either full or part time. But it can also make you a game-changing performer in your current field.

You’ll become a more skilled and confident executive, facing your company’s challenges with high-quality research approaches empowering you to identify inventive, evidence-based solutions. Or you can branch out as a consultant and guide other businesses to success.

Why the Daniels College of Business

• Perform research in the specialty of your choice.
• Learn through a blended format that includes distance learning and two on-campus immersions per quarter.
• Grow through Daniels’ unique approaches of ethical leadership and real-world, challenge-based learning.
• Work closely with faculty who are top researchers in their fields of expertise.
• Enjoy not only the benefits of the Rocky Mountains, but close ties to Denver, a thriving and highly entrepreneurial business community.

Qualified PhD Candidates

• Are established business leaders with a master’s degree and at least 10 years of substantial experience *
• Have demonstrated leadership experience necessary to identify and research relevant and timely business issues
• Are high performers with experience integrating research into real-life challenges
• Are driven by intellectual curiosity about complex problem-solving
• Want to approach business issues more systematically, making decisions based on research and data

*Applications that do not meet our minimum requirements will be considered based on tenure, educational history, work experience and previous accolades.

For More Information

Contact us if you have questions, want to discuss your research interests or would like to learn more about the Executive PhD.

Dan Baack, PhD

Director, Executive PhD

Melissa Akaka

Associate Dean for Research

Email Melissa

Perform in-depth research in the specialty of your choice.

Bridging The Gap Between Academia And Industry

Student and alumni news.

Neil Pollard Cohort 5 Was one of 20 doctoral students nationally accepted into the 2024 USASBE Doctoral Consortium for Teaching and Learning in Entrepreneurship. Each participant will work with a team on an entreprenurship education project with one of the editors from Entrepreneurship Education & Pedagogy.

Cynthia Arthur Cohort 4 Had her article “Technological Acquisitions: The Impact of Innovation on Stock Performance,” written with Teaching Associate Professor Irina Khindanova, PhD, accepted for publication in the Journal of Applied Business and Economics .

Marilyn Brock Cohort 4 Has accepted a position as lecturer at the University of Colorado Boulder, where she teaches courses on music business and entrepreneurship.

Gregory Kuppenheimer and Stuart Shelly Cohort 4 Published “Can Machine Learning Identify Sector-Level Financial Ratios That Predict Sector Returns?” written with Professor Jack Strauss, PhD, in Finance Research Letters . 

View All Student Profiles

Active Duty Officer Researches New Tech in PhD Program

Daniels grad ‘pays it back’ with executive phd, research: why aren’t more native american students attending college, research: why do some resist microaggression training, daniels students advance their careers through alumni advisory board endowed scholarship, increasing empathy through technology, immersed in the business of wellness, hotel executive returns to du to pursue teaching dream, the next smart step.

More Articles

11 PhD Programmes in Executive Programmes 2024

• Management Studies
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• Management (63)
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• United Kingdom (2)
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• Doctor of Education (1)
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• Full time (6)
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• English (11)
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• On-Campus (2)
• Distance learning (6)
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Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Executive Leadership

Selinus university of sciences and literature.

• London, United Kingdom
• Bologna, Italy

Distance learning

Students who undertake this PhD programme will need to explore the main theories and practices in business and leadership. Provide a broad perspective on companies and their transformations through case studies, insights and reports from managers and executives of leading companies.

Compare this program

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) by Research in Executive Leadership

Auream phoenix university for women.

Full time, Part time

English, Italian

Executive DBA

Université côte d’azur (unica).

• Nice, France
• Cannes, France

Executive DBA. An Executive Doctorate in Business Administration (EDBA) is a gold card to securing executive positions across a wide spectrum of global business domains. The program provides a platform for you to leverage your experience and management expertise to generate new knowledge and insights

Executive Doctorate of Business Administration

Tbs education.

• Toulouse, France
• Barcelona, Spain

Blended, Distance learning

The TBS Education DBA program is a 4-year professional doctorate program equivalent to a Ph.D. which provides research-based training and requires an original research contribution to a managerial and theoretical specific problem statement. It covers professional standards of practice and high-level business skills and techniques. It is an international program with participants coming from all over the world. Besides being flexible and challenging, the program offers a modern, innovative and pedagogical organization.

DBA Program 1

Unem universidad empresarial de costa rica.

• Los Yoses, Costa Rica

English, Spanish

Doctoral Success Lab: Resources, Processes, and Support Global Leadership and Ethics Organizational Behavior and Social Responsibility Management of Financial Resources Business Innovation & Entrepreneurship Research Methods-Qualitative Research Methods-Quantitative Research Foundation Analytics for Decision Making Global Perspectives in Human Resource

Doctor of Executive Leadership

University of charleston.

• Charleston, USA

This program is for those seeking to maximize their executive value to organizations, communities, and institutions. The goal of the DEL program is to educate the next generation of senior-level leaders as scholars and practitioners who can integrate theory and practice into the discipline of leadership. This rigorous program develops the skills needed in aspiring mid-and senior-level leaders who can then integrate theory with practice and extend the knowledge to a wide variety of industries or sectors. The DEL program is designed to train individuals in the effective use of business principles and leadership skills while providing skill development and understanding of a wide range of areas.

Rollins Crummer Graduate School of Business

• Winter Park, USA

The Executive Doctorate in Business Administration (EDBA) is a professional doctoral program for executives who have a master’s degree in business or related advanced degree.

EDBA Innovation & Entrepreneurship Essantials

Emtunis business school.

• Tunis, Tunisia

Blended, Distance learning, On-Campus

English, French, Avestan

The Executive Doctor of Business Administration (EDBA) program is designed for current and potential business leaders and senior managers, in the private and public sectors to enhance their knowledge and competencies appropriate to a leadership role in business administration. The Executive Doctor of Business Administration (EDBA) program is a research-based degree, but unlike the PhD, the DBA program is intended to engage the student in the application of theoretical knowledge to the advancement of practice in the field. The EDBA is increasingly recognized by international business and management schools as the most appropriate post-MBA (or equivalent master’s degree) route to combining academic research with management and business.

Executive Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership and Innovation

Saint francis university.

• Loretto, USA

Doctor of Education

New Executive Doctor of Education (EdD) from Saint Francis University The new Executive Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership and Innovation is an entrepreneurial and transformative 32-month program for confident leaders who are inspired to drive future innovation, using servant leadership as a framework for doing so. In this program, you will be intellectually challenged, gaining the leadership skills to excel in your current career or to pivot in a new field.

Executive Doctorate in Business Administration

Universal business academy.

• Johor, Malaysia

The Executive Doctor of Business Administration (EDBA) is a Professional Executive Develop Program for top management level with master degree qualifications seeking to deepen their understanding of the core elements of general management and business administration. Taking an applied approach within a flexible learning environment, the curriculum is designed around integrated knowledge to challenge business professionals in the issues of day-to-day operations and strategic planning; both locally and internationally.

Executive PhD

Worcester polytechnic institute.

• Worcester, USA

The Executive Ph.D. is designed for seasoned business professionals who are ready to apply their expertise in new and fulfilling ways. Whether you’re looking to elevate what you can do in your current role or you want to branch out into consulting, teaching, or conducting research, the Executive Ph.D. program will give you added credibility to become a more impactful thought leader. Elevate your impact by combining your extensive professional experience with WPI’s Executive Ph.D. program. In our flexible, course-based program, you’ll work closely with a cohort of fellow students whose interests and initiative match your own. Additionally, you choose from one of three concentrations in the Executive Ph.D. program: Entrepreneurship, Information Technology, and Operations Management. Faculty will support and guide you as you produce publishable research that employs varied qualitative and quantitative research methods with your work in the applied research context. You’ll master well-defined, research-based approaches that are grounded in academic methods to increase your influence in your industry or professional path. Research methods for a business Ph.D. require a different but equally rigorous set of skills than other doctoral programs. As an Executive Ph.D. candidate, you will learn and apply rigorous research methods, gain experience in analyzing data and understanding human factors, and apply qualitative and quantitative skills for the most effective outcomes.

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PhD Programmes in Executive Programmes

Many midlevel and senior managers find that, at some point in their career, they have need of specialized knowledge in order to move to the next level. Executive programs often aim to offer access to relevant business information necessary for advancement.