Felician University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced theoretical study with rigorous empirical methods and a sustained research dissertation. Core study areas include organisational theory and behaviour, strategic management, operations and supply chain management, and advanced quantitative and qualitative research methods.

• Research Methods and Statistics – advanced econometrics, multivariate analysis, structural equation modelling, experimental and quasi-experimental design, qualitative methods including case study and grounded theory.
• Organisational Theory and Behaviour – leadership, motivation, organisational change, culture, and governance as they relate to high-performing organisations.
• Operations and Supply Chain Management – production and service operations, process design, inventory and logistics, lean and six-sigma principles, and operations strategy.
• Strategic Management and Innovation – competitive strategy, strategic decision-making, innovation management and technology strategy.
• Doctoral Seminar and Research Colloquia – regular seminars where students present working papers, receive peer and faculty feedback, and engage with visiting scholars.
• Dissertation – independent, original research under a supervisory committee, culminating in a thesis that contributes to scholarly debates and practical management challenges.

Programme delivery emphasises small seminars, personalised supervision, and opportunities for collaborative projects with industry partners. Students typically progress from coursework and qualifying examinations to comprehensive proposals and a multi-chapter dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant master's degree (for example MBA, MS in Management, or equivalent) from an accredited institution, or a strong terminal master's in a cognate discipline. A demonstrated record of academic achievement, such as a high GPA, and evidence of research potential are essential.

• Academic qualifications – master’s degree in business, management, operations research, economics, engineering management or a related field. Exceptional applicants with a strong bachelor's degree and significant research experience may be considered.
• Research experience – evidence of research aptitude through thesis work, publications, conference presentations, or substantive research-based professional roles is highly desirable.
• Supporting materials – academic transcripts, a research statement outlining proposed doctoral research interests, a CV, and at least two academic references. A sample of scholarly writing (such as a master’s thesis chapter or research paper) is normally required.
• Standardised tests – some applicants may be asked to submit GRE or GMAT scores; requirements vary by background and department policy.
• Interview – shortlisted candidates will usually be interviewed by potential supervisors to assess fit and research readiness.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme are prepared for a range of careers in academia, industry and public-sector organisations where advanced research and analytic capability are valued.

• Academic careers – roles as tenure-track faculty, lecturers or research scholars in business schools and management departments, with teaching and research responsibilities.
• Research and analytics – senior research positions in corporate strategy teams, consultancy firms, think tanks and policy institutes that require advanced quantitative and qualitative skills.
• Senior management and leadership – executive roles in operations, supply chain, programme management and organisational development where evidence-based decision-making is key.
• Industry collaboration – opportunities for applied research partnerships with manufacturers, logistics providers, healthcare systems and service organisations seeking operational improvements.

Why study at Felician University

Felician University offers a personalised doctoral environment with small cohorts and close faculty mentoring rooted in the university’s Franciscan tradition of ethical leadership and service. The institution emphasises applied research that addresses real organisational challenges while fostering scholarly excellence.

• Faculty mentorship – access to faculty who combine academic research with practical consulting experience in management and operations.
• Regional engagement – proximity to metropolitan business hubs and a network of regional firms provides opportunities for field studies, internships and collaborative research projects.
• Research support – doctoral seminars, methodological workshops and access to library and data resources to support rigorous empirical work.
• Values-driven education – a commitment to ethical management, social responsibility and community engagement that informs both research questions and pedagogical approaches.