University of Dayton

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework in theory and methods with sustained dissertation research. Early years focus on core research tools and foundational disciplines: microeconomics for business, advanced statistics and econometrics, research design, and quantitative methods. Discipline‑specific seminars cover topics in management theory, organisational behaviour, strategy, operations management, supply chain analytics and service operations.

Typical taught elements include:

• Research methods and statistics – multivariate analysis, panel data methods, experimental and quasi‑experimental design.
• Operations and supply chain – production planning, inventory theory, logistics, process improvement and simulation modelling.
• Management and organisation – leadership theory, organisational change, strategic management and human resource analytics.
• Specialist seminars – advanced topics reflecting faculty expertise such as operations strategy, service operations, performance measurement and sustainability in operations.

After completing required coursework and passing comprehensive (qualifying) examinations, students progress to proposal development and the dissertation stage, conducting original empirical or theoretical research under the guidance of a primary supervisor and thesis committee. Throughout the programme students typically gain teaching experience and may collaborate with faculty on research projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant master’s degree or equivalent in business, management, operations research, industrial engineering, economics or a related discipline. A strong quantitative background—evidence of advanced coursework in statistics, econometrics, operations research or mathematics—is important. Typical application components include academic transcripts, a research statement outlining interests and proposed areas of inquiry, a curriculum vitae, letters of academic reference, and examples of prior academic work.

Standardised test scores (such as the GRE or GMAT) may be requested or considered as part of the assessment, particularly to demonstrate quantitative aptitude. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency in accordance with University of Dayton policy. Relevant professional experience and prior research or teaching experience are advantageous but not always required.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue a range of careers in academia, research institutes and industry. Common paths include tenure‑track faculty positions in business schools, research scientist roles in think tanks or industry research labs, and senior positions in operations, supply chain, consulting and analytics. The programme’s emphasis on rigorous methods and original research also prepares graduates for policy roles, leadership posts that require deep analytical capabilities, and entrepreneurial ventures that rely on data‑driven decision making.

Why study at University of Dayton

The University of Dayton offers a doctoral environment with close faculty mentorship, opportunities for collaborative research and a strong emphasis on ethical leadership and community engagement rooted in the University’s mission. Doctoral students benefit from small cohort sizes that support personalised supervision and teaching development, access to interdisciplinary expertise across business, engineering and social sciences, and opportunities to gain teaching and research assistantships.

The School of Business Administration maintains active research faculty whose interests span management and operations, enabling students to join ongoing projects, publish in peer‑reviewed journals and build a professional research profile. The University’s regional and industry connections also provide opportunities for applied research partnerships and placements that can enrich doctoral study and support career transitions.