City

What you'll study

The Business PhD is centred on an original research project supervised by academic staff in City’s business school. Candidates typically start with a combination of doctoral training in research methods and transferable skills, followed by an extended period of independent research leading to a thesis that contributes new knowledge to the field.

• Research training: intensive methods training in quantitative and qualitative techniques, advanced econometrics, statistics, case study methods, experimental design, and qualitative data analysis software where relevant.
• Theory and literature: deep engagement with theoretical frameworks in your chosen sub-field (for example, strategy, entrepreneurship, organisational behaviour, finance, marketing, operations, innovation or healthcare management) and development of a rigorous literature review and research framework.
• Skills and professional development: academic writing, publishing strategies, research ethics, grant writing, teaching and supervision skills, and presentation skills through seminars and doctoral workshops.
• Independent research: data collection and analysis, regular progress reporting, conference presentations, journal article preparation and submission, and thesis write-up and viva voce examination.

Students usually undertake a probationary period that includes assessment of progress and sometimes a formal upgrade from MPhil to PhD. Study modes include full-time and part-time registration, with completion typically achieved over three to four years full-time or over a longer period part-time.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic preparation and research potential. Typical requirements include:

• A good honours degree (usually a UK upper second class or international equivalent) and a relevant master's degree with a substantial research component; in some cases an MPhil or substantial research publications strengthen an application.
• A clear, feasible research proposal that aligns with the expertise of potential supervisors in the school.
• Evidence of research skills and methods training, either via prior study or relevant professional experience.
• Two academic references commenting on research potential; a CV and academic transcripts are also required.
• For non-native English speakers, evidence of English language proficiency at the level required by the university.
• Shortlisted applicants will normally be invited to interview with potential supervisors and the doctoral admissions panel.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Business PhD follow diverse career paths. Many proceed to academic careers as lecturers, researchers and professors at universities or business schools. Others move into research-intensive roles in think tanks, government departments, international organisations and policy units.

• Academic roles: postdoctoral research, teaching and tenure-track positions in business schools and related departments.
• Research and policy: research fellowships, analyst roles in public policy organisations, and research leadership in NGOs.
• Industry and consultancy: senior research and strategy positions in consulting firms, financial institutions, innovation and analytics teams, and corporate research units.
• Entrepreneurship and leadership: roles that use advanced research skills for evidence-based decision-making, evaluation and strategic development.

Why study at City

City’s business school is embedded in London’s professional and financial centre, offering strong links to industry, regulators and professional networks that support empirical research and knowledge exchange. The school hosts active research groups across core business disciplines, regular seminar series and doctoral workshops that expose students to leading scholars and international research trends.

Doctoral candidates benefit from structured doctoral training, experienced supervisory teams, access to specialised research facilities and data resources, and opportunities to teach and gain experience that supports an academic career. The urban location provides excellent access to archives, firms, and professional partners for fieldwork and applied research collaborations.