A Doctor of Philosophy in Management degree prepares graduates to become the next generation of academic business leaders and researchers. With a Ph.D in Business Management, graduates will study specialized courses, acquire mastery of research concepts and produce scholarly work that benefits others.
Program Goals
The ultimate purpose of Doctor of Philosophy in Management degree programs is to train students how to perform research, generate new knowledge and make significant contributions to the fields of management and general business. Students are provided with an advanced curriculum that concentrates on current issues and relevant topics. They are exposed to core leadership, organizational and executive managerial competencies.
These programs provide opportunities for students to focus their research and dissertation on an industry of their choice with real world problems. Thus, students often work directly with private companies and organizations to collect data, perform research and communicate with professionals. As an added bonus, these programs provide students with access to networks of successful business leaders and researchers who will support their career and professional development.
Common Core Classes
Doctor of Philosophy in Management programs will definitely have leadership lessons that train students how to apply concepts to real situations, manage organizational dynamics and evaluate employee performances. Financial topics may include accounting controls, resource allocation and fundraising activities. Modules related to strategic planning will explore the visionary techniques and creating thinking tools needed to properly manage risks and opportunities.
These programs often include classes that introduce cultural, demographic and sociopolitical core contexts that impact business activities. This is especially important as organizations and communities become highly complex and diverse. Finally, there will be many classes related to research techniques, data management and quantitative and qualitative research methods. All programs conclude with a dissertation and comprehensive exam, but some offer internships and assistantship opportunities.
Required Residencies
Most Ph.D programs require the completion of one to three residencies. These offer the challenges necessary to develop the expertise and academic skills needed to complete insightful independent research projects. Residencies are optimized to allow students to sequentially and extensively work on research plans, dissertation topics and data methodologies. Online Ph.D programs allow students to meet residency requirements through online and on-campus work.
Many PhD programs offer residencies on the weekend, so students will have the time and energy to focus on project management and build the skills required for graduation. These residencies typically begin with a course that includes learning modules, assignments and assessments. They continue as students review literature, analyze data, access academic resources and connect with faculty. Residencies allow students to cultivate professional skills, hone research tactics and apply advanced critical thinking skills to synthesize data and concepts into new conclusions.
Related Resource: Doctorate of Business Administration
Doctor of Philosophy in Management degree programs emphasize strong foundations in theoretical training and methodological tools, according to the Paul Merage School of Business. Students are sometimes expected to assist faculty teaching classes. Some programs offer academic specialty areas related to finance, marketing, operations and information systems. Regardless of the specialization, doctor of philosophy in management degree programs are a worth career investment.
