City University of New York

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework in core research methods with specialised seminars in a chosen field and an extended period of dissertation research. Early stages typically cover quantitative and theoretical foundations such as econometrics, statistics for research, microeconomic and macroeconomic theory as appropriate, and research design. Subsequent modules move to field-specific topics — for example, advanced corporate finance and asset pricing for finance specialisms; empirical and theoretical accounting research for accounting; organisational theory, strategic management and research methods for management; consumer behaviour and quantitative marketing methods for marketing; and applied econometrics and macro/micro analysis for economics-oriented students.

Students also take seminars in research ethics, pedagogy for higher education, and professional development sessions on publishing and grant-seeking. The programme culminates in comprehensive examinations (or equivalent qualifying assessments) and an original PhD dissertation supervised by faculty, with regular presentation of work-in-progress in departmental workshops and conferences.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a strong undergraduate degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification (such as a master's) or equivalent research experience. Evidence of quantitative preparation is important for many specialisms; suitable background may include economics, finance, accounting, engineering, mathematics, statistics or related disciplines. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a CV, a statement of research interests, academic references, and a writing sample or examples of prior research.

Competitive applicants demonstrate clear research potential: strong grades in relevant courses, prior research or publications where available, and well‑defined research interests that align with faculty expertise. Standardised test requirements (GRE/GMAT) and language proficiency tests follow the university’s general graduate admissions policy; applicants should consult the programme for current guidance on test expectations and possible waivers.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BUS-PHD pursue careers in a range of research-intensive roles. The most common destination is academia — tenure-track positions in university business schools and departments where graduates teach and lead research programmes. Others move into research positions in central banks, regulatory agencies, think tanks and international organisations, or take senior research and analytics roles in industry such as investment research, strategy, data science and management consulting.

Doctoral training also prepares graduates for leadership in applied research groups, entrepreneurial ventures that require strong quantitative skills, and policy roles where deep subject-matter expertise and rigorous empirical methods are valued.

Why study at City University of New York

Studying a business PhD within the CUNY system places candidates in one of the world’s leading business and financial centres. Students benefit from access to diverse faculty with strong records in both theoretical and applied research, extensive seminar and workshop programmes, and interdisciplinary collaboration across CUNY colleges and research centres. The university’s urban location gives ready access to financial institutions, corporations, public agencies and data sources for empirically oriented projects.

CUNY is also known for its commitment to public higher education and for a diverse student and faculty community, which can enrich research questions and application contexts. Additional practical advantages include opportunities to teach and gain pedagogical experience, access to specialised libraries and research resources, and connections to a wide alumni and professional network in New York City and beyond.