Florida International University

What you'll study

This PhD focuses on developing original research in management and operations. Early coursework provides a rigorous foundation in research methods, statistics and theory, followed by advanced seminars that expose students to current debates and methods in organisational behaviour, strategic management, operations management, supply chain, and decision sciences. Typical core and elective topics include:

• Research methods and advanced quantitative techniques (econometrics, multivariate statistics, structural equation modelling)
• Organisational theory and behaviour (micro-foundations of management, leadership, teams)
• Strategic management and competitive analysis
• Operations and supply chain management (process analysis, inventory and logistics, service operations)
• Data analytics and empirical methods for management research
• Research seminars in specialised areas (technology and innovation management, project management, human resource strategy)

The programme combines coursework, qualifying examinations, research practicum and a dissertation. Students typically work closely with faculty advisers from the Chapman Graduate School of Business and affiliated research centres, participate in departmental seminars, present working papers at conferences, and publish in peer-reviewed journals. Training emphasises both theoretical contribution and methodological rigour, with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across economics, engineering and information systems.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants normally hold a master’s degree (or equivalent) in business, management, economics, engineering or a related field; exceptional applicants with a strong bachelor’s degree and substantial research experience may be considered. Other typical requirements include:

• A strong academic record with evidence of quantitative and analytical preparation
• Demonstrated research potential, shown through a statement of research interests, writing sample or prior publications
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees able to assess research ability
• Standardised test scores where required by the programme (details vary by cohort)
• For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency in accordance with university policy

Admission is selective and research fit with faculty is a key consideration; prospective students are encouraged to identify potential faculty advisers and describe possible dissertation topics in their application materials.

Career prospects

Graduates of this PhD commonly pursue academic careers as tenure-track faculty in business schools and management departments, teaching and conducting research in areas such as strategy, organisational behaviour, operations and supply chain management. Other typical career paths include:

• Research scientist or economist roles in industry, especially within analytic, operations or strategy teams
• Senior consultancy positions that rely on rigorous empirical and strategic analysis
• Leadership roles in research centres, think tanks and policy organisations
• Data science and advanced analytics positions where deep methodological training is valued

The programme’s emphasis on publication and conference presentation prepares graduates to compete for academic positions internationally and to lead research-driven initiatives in the private and public sectors.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University offers a research-intensive environment within a diverse, globally connected city. The Chapman Graduate School of Business has research-active faculty across management and operations, and students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration with experts in economics, information systems and engineering. FIU’s location in Miami provides proximity to multinational firms, a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem and strong connections to Latin American and Caribbean markets, which can be advantageous for empirical research and professional networking. Additionally, the department supports doctoral students through mentorship, teaching and research assistantships, seminar programmes, and opportunities to present at workshops and industry forums.