University of Chicago

What you'll study

The programme emphasises training in research methods, theory, and substantive domains within management and operations. Early years are devoted to core coursework in microeconomic theory, statistics and econometrics, research design, and mathematical models relevant to organisation and operations. Students take advanced seminars covering topics such as organisational theory, strategy, behavioural decision-making, operations management, supply chain and service operations, empirical methods for causal inference, field experiments, and computational modelling.

After completing required coursework and passing qualifying examinations, students shift to independent research. The curriculum includes regular research seminars, workshop presentations, and teaching practicum experience. The doctoral dissertation is an original research project developed under the supervision of faculty advisers, often drawing on interdisciplinary methods from economics, psychology, computer science, and operations research.

• Core areas: microeconomic foundations, econometrics, research methods, organisational theory
• Typical electives: behavioural economics and decision research, strategy and competition, supply chain and logistics, service operations, field experiment design, machine learning for empirical research
• Professional development: teaching practicum, paper presentations, grant-writing and research ethics
• Research milestones: coursework, qualifying exams, dissertation proposal, dissertation defence

Entry requirements

Successful applicants typically hold a strong undergraduate degree with substantial quantitative content; many have a relevant master's degree or equivalent research experience. Strong preparation in calculus, linear algebra, probability and statistics, and formal coursework in economics or quantitative social science is expected.

• Academic transcripts demonstrating high achievement in quantitative and relevant social-science coursework
• Standardised test scores where required by the programme (e.g. GRE or GMAT), though requirements and waivers may vary
• Letters of recommendation that speak to research potential and quantitative ability
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests, relevant preparation, and fit with faculty expertise
• Writing sample or evidence of prior research (published work, working papers, master’s thesis) if available
• Proof of English proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (tests and minimums vary)

Admissions committees place particular weight on demonstrated research potential, quantitative aptitude, and alignment between the applicant’s interests and faculty expertise. Relevant research or industry experience in empirical projects is advantageous.

Career prospects

Graduates from this PhD enter a range of research-intensive careers. A substantial proportion pursue tenure-track faculty positions at research universities, where they continue to publish and teach in management, operations, strategy, or related fields. Others move into applied research roles in industry: research scientist or economist positions at technology firms, analytics and strategy roles in consulting, leadership roles in corporate strategy and operations, or research posts in public policy organisations and think tanks.

The programme also prepares graduates for positions in advanced analytics, data science, and R&D labs where rigorous causal inference, experimentation, and optimisation skills are valued. Training in pedagogy and research methods supports long-term academic career development and leadership in research organizations.

Why study at University of Chicago

The University of Chicago offers this PhD through a rigorous, research-driven environment with close interaction with faculty who are leaders in economics, decision sciences, operations research and management. The programme benefits from cross-disciplinary collaboration across the Booth School of Business, departments of economics and computer science, and research centres such as the Centre for Decision Research and centres focused on empirical and behavioural methods.

Students have access to a vibrant seminar and workshop culture, regular visitor programmes, and resources for field and lab experimentation. The university provides structured mentorship, funding support during the doctoral programme, and extensive placement support to help students transition to academic and non-academic careers. The intellectual culture at Chicago emphasises analytical clarity, empirical rigour and theoretical precision — a strong fit for students seeking to pursue high-impact research in management and operations.