Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

A PhD at Nottingham Business School is an original research degree focused on producing a substantial thesis that makes a distinct contribution to knowledge in business and management. Candidates work on a self-directed research project under the guidance of an academic supervisory team and are expected to engage with cutting‑edge literature, research methods and empirical investigation relevant to their topic.

Research areas commonly supervised at the school include organisational behaviour, human resource management, strategy, entrepreneurship, marketing, operations and supply chain management, accounting and finance, sustainability and business ethics, digital business and innovation, and public and third‑sector management. Projects can employ qualitative, quantitative, mixed‑methods, design science or action research approaches, depending on the research question.

Although the programme has no taught modules as part of the doctoral thesis route, research students can typically access training and development through a structured researcher development programme. This commonly includes advanced research methods and statistics, academic writing and publication workshops, research integrity and governance training, conference presentation skills, and opportunities to participate in research seminars and centres.

• Developing a research proposal and research design
• Literature review and theoretical development
• Advanced qualitative and quantitative research methods
• Data collection, analysis and interpretation
• Academic writing, journal publication and knowledge exchange
• Teaching and pedagogy opportunities (where available)
• Engagement with research centres, industry partners and interdisciplinary networks

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good UK Master's degree (or an overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline, and a first degree with honours at a standard appropriate for doctoral study. Exceptionally, candidates with substantial professional experience and a demonstrated capacity for research may be considered, but should provide evidence of research ability.

Other typical requirements and considerations:

• A clearly defined research proposal or statement of research interests outlining the research question, proposed methodology and expected contribution.
• Evidence of prior research training or experience (for example, a Master’s dissertation or published work) is advantageous.
• Two academic or professional references commenting on suitability for doctoral study.
• For international applicants whose first language is not English, an appropriate English language qualification at a level acceptable to the University.
• Where relevant, applicants may be invited to an interview or to discuss supervision arrangements with potential supervisors.

Career prospects

A PhD from Nottingham Business School prepares graduates for a range of careers in academia, professional research and senior practice roles. Many graduates proceed to academic careers as lecturers, researchers or research fellows, contributing to teaching and scholarship. The degree also supports progression into senior research and strategy roles within business, consultancy, public sector organisations and non‑governmental organisations.

Typical career pathways include:

• University lecturer, researcher or postdoctoral fellow
• Research and development roles in industry or consultancies
• Senior policy, strategy or analytics roles in the public and third sectors
• Specialist consultant in areas such as organisational change, sustainability or digital transformation
• Leadership roles in think tanks, research institutes or knowledge exchange organisations

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Business School offers a research‑active environment with experienced supervisors across a broad range of business and management disciplines. The school encourages interdisciplinary work and maintains links with industry, public sector bodies and international research networks, providing opportunities for knowledge exchange and applied research impact.

Research students benefit from structured doctoral training, dedicated supervisory support, and access to the University’s research centres, specialist facilities and events. The campus environment and research support services, including training in research methods, funding application guidance and professional development, are designed to help candidates develop as independent researchers and academic professionals.

Prospective students are advised to contact potential supervisors to discuss research ideas and supervision fit before applying, and to review the school’s research themes and centre activities to identify alignment with their proposed project.