Doctor of Philosophy in Business

The Doctor of Philosophy in Business at Kingston University is a rigorous research degree designed for individuals who wish to pursue advanced scholarly work in various fields within business studies. This programme provides an excellent opportunity for students to develop their research skills, contribute original insights to their chosen area of business, and prepare for careers in academia, industry, or consultancy. The programme is structured around independent research supported by expert supervision from experienced academic staff, ensuring that students receive tailored guidance throughout their doctoral journey. Candidates are encouraged to explore a wide range of topics, including management, finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, and organizational behaviour, among others, enabling them to align their research with current industry trends and academic debates. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, methodological rigor, and academic writing, equipping students with the tools necessary to produce high-quality research outputs suitable for publication in leading journals. Kingston University provides state-of-the-art facilities, comprehensive workshops, and research seminars to support doctoral candidates at every stage of their research process. The PhD programme typically requires several years of full-time or part-time study, culminating in the submission of a substantial thesis that demonstrates original contribution to knowledge. Graduates of the programme are well-prepared to pursue academic careers as university professors or researchers, or to take leadership roles in business and industry organizations, leveraging their advanced research skills and sector-specific expertise to influence practice and policy. Overall, the Doctor of Philosophy in Business at Kingston University offers a supportive academic environment, a vibrant research community, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through innovative research.

The PhD in Business at Kingston University offers an in-depth and comprehensive research programme designed for students aspiring to develop advanced expertise and contribute original insights to the field of business. This doctoral qualification provides an exceptional opportunity for candidates to engage in rigorous academic inquiry across a wide range of business-related topics, including strategic management, marketing, entrepreneurship, organisational behaviour, and international business. Throughout the programme, students will work closely with experienced supervisors, who are experts in their respective fields, to develop a clear research agenda, refine their research questions, and design robust methodologies. The programme emphasizes independent research, critical analysis, and scholarly writing, enabling students to produce a substantial thesis that advances knowledge within the discipline and demonstrates their capacity for original contribution. Students will benefit from Kingston University's vibrant academic community, access to extensive research resources, and opportunities for networking through seminars, conferences, and collaborations with industry partners. The programme is structured to allow flexibility for part-time or full-time study, accommodating the needs of working professionals and international students. Throughout their studies, candidates will acquire valuable skills in data collection and analysis, academic writing, project management, and presentation, preparing them for academic careers, consultancy roles, leadership positions, or further research activities. Upon successful completion, graduates will be equipped to publish their research findings, influence business practices, and inform policy development. The Kingston University PhD in Business is designed to foster innovative thinking, analytical proficiency, and scholarly excellence, making it an ideal choice for those committed to advancing knowledge and practice in the dynamic and globalized world of business.

The PhD in Business program at Kingston University requires applicants to hold a relevant master's degree or equivalent qualification in business, management, or a related discipline. Candidates must demonstrate a strong academic background, including research experience or potential, through academic transcripts and references. International students must also meet the university's English language proficiency requirements, typically evidenced by IELTS scores of at least 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0. The application process involves submitting a detailed research proposal outlining the intended area of study, research objectives, and methodology, which is then reviewed by faculty members for approval. Prospective students are encouraged to identify a potential supervisor with expertise aligned to their research interests prior to application.

Once accepted, students are expected to engage fully with the university's research community, including attending seminars, workshops, and one-to-one supervisory sessions. The program emphasizes original research that contributes new knowledge to the field of business. Candidates must complete comprehensive coursework in research methods, which equips them with the necessary skills to conduct independent research. Throughout the program, students are required to present their research progress at various milestones, such as annual progress reviews, to ensure adherence to academic standards.

The doctoral program culminates in the submission of a substantial thesis that makes a significant contribution to business studies. This thesis undergoes rigorous assessment through an oral viva voce examination conducted by expert examiners. Successful candidates demonstrate critical thinking, methodological rigor, and the ability to contextualize their research within existing literature. Kingston University also offers support services, including research training workshops, peer mentoring, and access to extensive library resources, to aid students throughout their doctoral studies. Funding opportunities, including scholarships and bursaries, are available for eligible applicants, supporting them in their academic journey. The PhD in Business at Kingston University prepares graduates for academic careers, research roles, or executive positions by fostering advanced research skills, analytical capabilities, and comprehensive understanding of contemporary business issues.

The financing studies of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business at Kingston University encompass a comprehensive range of funding options and support mechanisms designed to assist students throughout their doctoral research. Prospective students can explore various avenues to finance their studies, including scholarships, bursaries, studentships, grants, and external funding opportunities. Kingston University offers multiple internal scholarships specifically tailored for postgraduate research students, which are awarded based on academic merit and research potential. In addition to university-funded financial aid, students are encouraged to seek funding from external sources such as government research councils, industry partnerships, and charitable organizations, which often provide dedicated grants for business research projects. The university's dedicated Research Office provides guidance and support in applying for these external funds, assisting students in navigating the application procedures and eligibility criteria.

Furthermore, students may opt for part-time work opportunities available on campus or within the local community, allowing them to supplement their income while pursuing their research. Funding packages for international students are also available, with specific scholarships aimed at attracting talented researchers from abroad. It is important to note that precise funding amounts, eligibility requirements, and application deadlines vary depending on the specific funding source and the student's individual circumstances. Kingston University also advocates for a proactive approach to funding acquisition, encouraging students to develop strong research proposals and engage with potential funding bodies early in their academic journey. Overall, the university's support for the financing of business PhD studies aims to reduce financial barriers and enable students to focus fully on their research endeavors, ensuring a productive and rewarding doctoral experience.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business at Kingston University is a prestigious research degree designed for individuals seeking to contribute original knowledge to the field of business. The program offers an in-depth exploration of advanced topics related to business management, economics, organizational behavior, international business, and other related disciplines. Students engaging in this programme have the opportunity to work closely with expert faculty members who provide mentorship and guidance throughout their research journey. The PhD in Business aims to develop critical thinking, research skills, and academic expertise, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, consultancy, or senior management roles. The programme typically begins with comprehensive training in research methodologies, data analysis techniques, and academic writing skills. Students then undertake a significant independent research project, culminating in the submission of a thesis that makes a meaningful contribution to their chosen area of study. Kingston University provides access to state-of-the-art facilities, extensive library resources, and links with industry partners to support research activities. The duration of the PhD programme is usually three to four years full-time, or longer for part-time study. Entry requirements typically include a relevant postgraduate qualification such as a Master’s degree, along with a strong research proposal demonstrating the candidate’s ability to undertake independent research. Applicants are expected to have a good academic track record and meet English language proficiency standards if applicable. The university encourages interdisciplinary research approaches and collaborations across different departments and faculties. The programme emphasizes the development of a robust research methodology, critical analysis, and academic writing skills necessary for publishing research findings in scholarly journals. Kingston University’s supportive research community, coupled with opportunities for attending conferences, publishing papers, and engaging in academic networks, enhances the overall PhD experience. Graduates of the programme are well-equipped to pursue academic careers at universities worldwide, hold senior consulting or management positions within the private or public sectors, or continue research at a postgraduate level. The university’s strong reputation for research excellence and its commitment to student success make the Kingston PhD in Business an attractive choice for aspiring researchers and academics.