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Business Administration PhD

Program Code: G-BUS-PHD
Degree Designation: Doctor of Philosophy
Department: Business PhD
Website: fuqua.duke.edu/programs/phd

PhD programs follow the policies outlined in The Graduate School Bulletin.

Program Summary

The PhD in Business Administration Program prepares candidates for research and teaching careers at leading educational institutions and for careers in business and governmental organizations where advanced research and analytical capabilities are required. The PhD program places major emphasis on independent inquiry, on the development of competence in research methodology, and on the communication of research results. Students are introduced at the outset of the program not only to rigorous coursework, but also to the research activities of the faculty and of other students. (A ratio of doctoral students-in-residence to faculty of less than one-to-one facilitates this opportunity to work closely with faculty.) The school offers programs of research and training in the areas of accounting, decision sciences, finance, management and organizations, marketing, operations management, and strategy.

The PhD program usually requires five years of study.

The PhD program is administered by and follows the policies of The Graduate School. Refer to The Graduate School's Bulletin at graduateschool.bulletins.duke.edu for information about its policies and a complete list of courses and course descriptions (courses use the subject code BA). Additional information may be obtained by visiting fuqua.duke.edu/programs/phd.

Academic Requirements

The program requires that doctoral candidates acquire expertise in their chosen area of study and in research methodology. This competence may be gained from coursework, participation in seminars, and independent study. Each student must complete their preliminary examination (a paper or other requirement depending upon the area) by the end of their third year of residence. The final requirement is the presentation of a dissertation. The PhD program usually requires five years of study. The student and the faculty in their area determine the specific program of study.