IESEG School of Management

What you'll study

The programme combines formal doctoral coursework, research seminars and an extended original dissertation. Early stages typically focus on advanced training in research methods and theory relevant to the chosen specialisation, followed by a shift toward independent research under supervision.

• Core research methods: advanced quantitative methods and econometrics, longitudinal data analysis, experimental methods and multivariate techniques for candidates in analytical tracks; qualitative methods, case study techniques and interpretive analysis for qualitative tracks.
• Theory and literature: intensive seminars in the theoretical foundations of the student’s field (e.g. organisational theory, strategic management theory, consumer behaviour theory, financial economics).
• Specialist seminars: topic-specific seminars in areas such as corporate finance, marketing analytics, supply chain management, information systems, organisational behaviour and human resource management.
• Research skills and professional development: academic writing and publication workshops, conference presentation training, ethics in research, pedagogy and optional teaching practicum.
• Dissertation research: an extended programme of supervised research culminating in a doctoral thesis that contributes original knowledge to the field and is defended before an examination committee.

The typical progression moves from structured coursework and qualifying assessments in the first one to two years to concentrated dissertation work thereafter. Candidates are expected to present and publish research at conferences and in peer-reviewed journals during their candidacy.

Entry requirements

Admission is selective and intended for applicants who demonstrate strong research potential. Typical requirements include:

• A relevant master’s degree (e.g. MSc, MA, MPhil) in management, economics, finance, or a related discipline; holders of equivalent qualifications with strong research experience may also be considered.
• A clear research proposal outlining intended research questions, theoretical framing and methodological approach.
• Evidence of strong academic performance at graduate level and familiarity with advanced quantitative or qualitative methods as appropriate to the chosen track.
• Academic references (usually two or three) that speak to research ability and potential.
• Proof of English proficiency if the applicant’s previous degree was not taught in English (accepted evidence typically includes scores from recognised tests or institutional exemption). Knowledge of French is helpful for integration in Lille but is not always mandatory depending on the supervision and research environment.
• Where applicable, submission of GMAT/GRE scores and a curriculum vitae highlighting research experience, publications or relevant work in research roles can strengthen an application.

Shortlisted candidates are often interviewed by faculty. funded positions or doctoral contracts may require a separate recruitment process.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme typically pursue careers in academia, research and advanced professional practice. Common paths include:

• Tenure-track academic positions (lecturer, assistant professor) and postdoctoral research roles in universities and business schools.
• Research roles in public-sector research organisations, think tanks and international institutions where advanced analytical and research skills are required.
• Senior research or analytical roles in industry, such as R&D units, strategy departments, data science or analytics teams in corporate settings and consultancy practices that value rigorous evidence-based approaches.
• Policy and advisory roles that draw on deep expertise in management, finance or organisational behaviour.

The programme’s emphasis on publication and conference presentation helps graduates build an academic profile that supports placement in competitive research and teaching positions worldwide.

Why study at IESEG School of Management

IESEG offers a research-focused environment within a European business school that is recognised for its international outlook and academic quality. The PhD candidates benefit from:

• Research supervision: access to experienced faculty supervisors across a range of management disciplines and active research centres that foster collaboration and interdisciplinary projects.
• Doctoral community and resources: integration with the University of Lille’s doctoral ecosystem, regular research seminars, workshops, and institutional support for conferences and publication efforts.
• International exposure: a diverse student and faculty body with opportunities for international exchange, joint research and conference networking that support global academic career development.
• Professional development: training in academic writing, teaching practice, research ethics and grant-writing to prepare candidates for academic and non-academic careers.
• Location and facilities: metropolitan campuses with access to libraries, databases and collaborative workspaces in Lille and Paris, and connections to local and regional business networks for applied research opportunities.

Applicants should contact IESEG’s doctoral admissions office or the relevant departmental supervisor to discuss fit, funding opportunities and the research themes currently supported by the school.