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July 14, 2025
PhD in Business Administration
3 Years (Full-time) | 4-5 Years (Part-time)
54 hours Credit Hours
English
October
Overview
PhD in Business Administration
A research-driven doctoral program for future scholars, consultants, and industry leaders in Dubai and the UAE.
About the Program
The PhD in Business Administration is the highest academic qualification in the field of Business Administration. It prepares candidates for careers in academia, research institutions, consulting, and strategic leadership roles. The program is designed for professionals who want to contribute original research to the discipline. It emphasizes rigorous methodology, advanced theoretical foundations, and real-world relevance to business challenges in the UAE and globally. Students develop expertise in areas such as strategic Business Administration, organizational behavior, entrepreneurship, human resource Business Administration, marketing, operations Business Administration, and international business.Program Structure and Research Focus
The PhD in Business Administration combines structured coursework, research seminars, and a dissertation to guide candidates through the full research journey—from identifying a research gap to designing a study, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting findings. Candidates work closely with experienced faculty supervisors to advance the field of Business Administration through original, peer-reviewed research.Key Features
- Advanced coursework in Business Administration theory and research methods.
- Training in quantitative and qualitative research techniques.
- Faculty mentorship and structured supervision throughout the program.
- Opportunities for teaching experience at the undergraduate or postgraduate level.
- Research seminars, workshops, and academic presentations.
- Doctoral dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field.
Admission Requirements
Each year, candidates are admitted as a cohort limited to a maximum of 10. Candidates must demonstrate the potential for sustainable success in the PhD program. The admission process consists of four phases – eligibility, application, assessment and registration, and orientation.
| CGPA | English | Other |
| Master's degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in a discipline appropriate for the doctoral degree, or academic distinction in a discipline appropriate for the doctoral degree at the baccalaureate degree with a CGPA of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale | Students are exempt from submitting an English proficiency score if they completed a Master’s program taught in English and were originally admitted with a minimum TOEFL score of 550 (or an approved MOE-recognized equivalent). | A master's degree from a recognized and accredited university An equivalency letter from MoE (degrees not from UAE) |
Who Is This Program For?
A Ph.D. in Business Administration is designed for individuals who have a strong academic and research inclination and aspire to become scholars, researchers, or educators in the field of business administration. The program is typically suited for the following groups of people:
1. Aspiring Academics: Many individuals pursue a Ph.D. in Business Administration with the goal of entering academia. They aim to become professors or researchers in universities and research institutions. This program equips them with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct original research, publish scholarly articles, and contribute to the academic community through teaching and mentoring.
2. Industry Professionals: Professionals who already have experience in the management field may choose to pursue a Ph.D. to enhance their expertise and broaden their career opportunities. This can include individuals working in management positions in various industries, such as business, finance, consulting, or government. They may seek to gain a deeper understanding of management theories, research methodologies, and contribute to the advancement of the field through their research.
3. Consultants and Policy Analysts: Ph.D. in Business Administration can also benefit individuals working in consulting firms, think tanks, or government agencies. The program provides them with advanced analytical and research skills, allowing them to conduct rigorous studies, analyze complex management issues, and provide evidence-based recommendations for organizations and policymakers.
4. Entrepreneurs and Business Owners: Some entrepreneurs or business owners pursue a Ph.D. in Business Administration to gain a deeper understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of management and to develop research-based insights into their business practices. This knowledge can be applied to improve decision-making, strategy formulation, and organizational effectiveness.
5. Individuals with a Passion for Research: The program is also suitable for individuals who have a strong passion for research and a genuine curiosity to explore management-related topics. They may not necessarily have a specific career path in mind but are driven by a desire to contribute to the field’s knowledge and understanding through their research endeavors.
It’s important to note that admission requirements for Ph.D. programs in Business Administration can vary across institutions. Generally, applicants are expected to hold a master’s degree in a related field, demonstrate strong academic performance, submit letters of recommendation, provide a statement of purpose outlining their research interests, and sometimes take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or similar standardized tests.
Career Opportunities
A Ph.D. in Business Administration opens up a wide range of career opportunities in academia, research institutions, industry, consulting, and government. Here are some common career paths pursued by graduates of a Ph.D. in Business Administration
1. Academia: Many Ph.D. graduates choose to pursue academic careers as professors, lecturers, or researchers in universities and business schools. They conduct research, publish scholarly articles, teach courses in management, and mentor students. Academic positions can be found at both undergraduate and graduate levels, allowing researchers to contribute to the development of management knowledge and educate the next generation of business professionals.
2. Research Institutions: Graduates can work as researchers in various research institutions, think tanks, or policy organizations. They contribute to research projects, conduct studies on management-related topics, and generate insights that inform organizational practices, public policy, or industry trends. These positions often involve collaboration with other researchers and thought leaders in the field.
3. Consulting: Ph.D. graduates in Business Administration may find opportunities in consulting firms. They can work as management consultants, advising organizations on strategic planning, organizational development, change management, or specific industry-related challenges. Their advanced research skills and expertise in management theories enable them to provide evidence-based recommendations and help organizations optimize their performance.
4. Government and Non-profit Organizations: Ph.D. graduates may pursue careers in government agencies or non-profit organizations, where their expertise in management can contribute to policy formulation, program evaluation, or organizational management. They may work in areas such as economic development, public administration, human resources, or social impact initiatives.
5. Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Some Ph.D. graduates with a passion for entrepreneurship and innovation may choose to start their own businesses or contribute to start-up ventures. Their deep understanding of management principles and research-based insights can inform their strategic decision-making, business model development, and organizational growth strategies.
6. Executive Leadership: Graduates with a Ph.D. in Business Administration often possess the knowledge and skills to assume leadership positions in organizations. They may become executives, directors, or senior managers in various industries, utilizing their expertise in management theories, research methods, and strategic thinking to drive organizational success.
7. Professional Development and Training: Some Ph.D. graduates may pursue careers in professional development and training. They can work as corporate trainers, executive coaches, or learning and development specialists, designing and delivering programs to enhance managerial and leadership skills within organizations.
It’s important to note that career opportunities can vary depending on individual interests, areas of specialization, and the specific demands of the job market. Networking, building a strong publication record, and staying updated with industry trends and research developments can enhance career prospects for Ph.D. graduates in Business Administration.
Study Plan
PhD Study Plan
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PhD Study Plan
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| Course Code | CHs | Course Name |
|---|---|---|
| AWR 865 | 3 | Academic Writing and Research Proposal Practicum |
| QRY 865 | 3 | Quantitative Research Methods |
| QRM 865 | 3 | Qualitative Research Methods |
| SMG 865 | 3 | Strategic Management |
| IBT 865 | 3 | International Business and Foreign Trade |
| ACF 865 | 3 | Accounting and Financial Management |
| GTM 865 | 3 | Global Talent Management |
| SLD 865 | 3 | Strategic Leadership and Organizational Behavior |
| PhD 870 | The comprehensive exam will be conducted in September before starting next academic year. | |
| 24 CHs | Year-2, 25-26 TERMS | |
| DISS 881 | 3 | Doctoral Dissertation |
| DISS 882 | 3 | Doctoral Dissertation |
| DISS 883 | 3 | Doctoral Dissertation |
| DISS 884 | 3 | Doctoral Dissertation |
| 12 CHs | Year-3, 26-27 TERMS | |
| DISS 885 | 6 | Doctoral Dissertation |
| DISS 886 | 6 | Doctoral Dissertation |
| DISS 887 | 6 | Doctoral Dissertation |
| 18 CHs | ||
| Total | 54 CHs |