Simmons University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, intensive research training and a dissertation that contributes original knowledge to management and operations. Early coursework builds foundations in research methods and theory, while later stages emphasise specialised, dissertation-focused study.

• Core research training: advanced quantitative methods, qualitative methods, research design, and applied statistics/econometrics for management research.
• Management theory and microfoundations: organisational theory, strategic management, leadership and decision-making theories underpinning empirical work.
• Operations and supply chain: operations strategy, production and service operations, process analytics, supply chain management, and operations modelling.
• Electives and specialisms: students can choose electives such as innovation and entrepreneurship, sustainability and social impact, human resource management, healthcare operations, and service operations, depending on faculty expertise and research interests.
• Research seminars and colloquia: regular doctoral seminars where students present works-in-progress, receive feedback from faculty and peers, and engage with visiting scholars.
• Teaching and professional development: supervised teaching assignments, pedagogy seminars, and workshops on grant writing, publishing and academic career preparation.
• Qualifying examinations and dissertation: preparation for and completion of comprehensive/qualifying exams, followed by an original dissertation under the guidance of a supervisory committee.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate readiness for doctoral-level research through previous academic achievement and research experience.

• Academic background: a relevant master’s degree (or exceptional bachelor’s degree) in business, management, operations research, economics, engineering or a closely related field. Strong performance in quantitative coursework is advantageous.
• Research experience: evidence of research potential such as prior publications, a master’s thesis, research assistantships, or industry research projects.
• Supporting materials: a CV, academic transcripts, a research statement or proposal outlining intended doctoral research, a writing sample (for example, a thesis chapter or conference paper), and at least two academic references.
• Tests and interviews: competitive GRE or GMAT scores may strengthen an application where provided; the programme may invite shortlisted candidates for interviews with potential supervisors.
• Fit and faculty match: clear alignment between the applicant’s research interests and faculty expertise is an important selection criterion.

Career prospects

Graduates of this PhD typically pursue careers that emphasise research, teaching and leadership in both academic and non-academic settings.

• Academic careers: tenure-track and visiting faculty positions in business schools and management departments, with responsibilities for teaching, research and service.
• Research roles: research scientist or senior analyst positions in think tanks, policy institutes, and corporate research labs focusing on operations, strategy or organisational behaviour.
• Industry and consulting: senior management and strategy roles in operations, supply chain, process improvement, analytics, and management consulting firms where rigorous research and analytical skills are valued.
• Executive education and leadership: roles in corporate training, executive development programmes, and non-profit leadership where evidence-based management insights are applied.

Why study at Simmons University

Simmons offers a doctoral environment with small cohorts, personalised mentorship and strong interdisciplinary connections across business, public policy and healthcare — sectors well represented in the Boston region. The university emphasises inclusive leadership and supports scholars from diverse backgrounds, including a long-standing commitment to women’s leadership in business and management.

• Close faculty supervision: students work directly with faculty who have active research agendas and publications in management and operations.
• Access to Boston’s ecosystem: proximity to a dense network of corporations, healthcare organisations, startups and research institutes creates opportunities for collaborative research and applied projects.
• Professional development: structured training in pedagogy, grant-seeking and scholarly communication prepares graduates for academic and research careers.
• Research resources: library collections, data services, research centres and regular seminar series support sustained dissertation research and scholarly productivity.