Emory University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework in theory and methods with long-term, supervised research leading to a doctoral dissertation. Early-stage study typically covers micro- and macro-level foundations relevant to business research, advanced econometrics and statistics, research design, and domain-specific theory depending on your concentration (for example, finance, marketing, accounting, organisational behaviour, strategy, or operations).

• Research methods: rigorous quantitative and qualitative methods, causal inference, modern empirical techniques and computational methods.
• Theory and domain seminars: deep dives into core literatures (e.g. organisational behaviour, strategy, finance, marketing, information systems) and advanced seminars that critically examine current research.
• Professional development: paper workshops, teaching pedagogy, grant-writing, and presentation skills to prepare for academic job markets.
• Dissertation research: independent, original research conducted under the supervision of a faculty committee culminating in a defended dissertation.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong academic preparation and clear research potential. Typical admissions expectations include:

• A completed undergraduate degree; many admitted students also hold a relevant master's degree or equivalent advanced coursework.
• Evidence of quantitative preparation and familiarity with research methods, shown through transcripts, prior research experience, coursework or a research-based master’s thesis.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can attest to research ability and fit for doctoral study.
• A personal statement outlining research interests, motivations for doctoral study and potential faculty mentors.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements; the programme may also consider standardised test scores or other indicators of academic readiness as part of a holistic review.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for research-intensive roles. Common career outcomes include positions on the faculty at research universities, roles in university-affiliated research centres, and research or leadership positions in industry and consulting where advanced analytical and research skills are valued. Other alumni pursue careers in policy research, think tanks or senior analytics and strategy roles in corporations.

Why study at Emory University

Emory’s business PhD is located within a research-active business school that emphasises close faculty mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration and strong methodological training. Students benefit from regular seminar series, research centres and access to the Atlanta business ecosystem for empirical studies and professional connections. Doctoral students typically receive support through research or teaching assistantships, and the programme is structured to prioritise early research productivity and careful preparation for the academic job market.