Doctoral Programme in Business

The Doctoral Programme in Business at the University of Ljubljana is a rigorous and comprehensive academic pathway designed to cultivate advanced research skills, critical thinking, and original contributions to the field of business studies. This doctoral program aims to prepare future scholars, researchers, and industry experts to address complex challenges in various areas of business, including management, marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, and organizational behavior. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to integrate theories and methodologies from economics, social sciences, and related disciplines to develop innovative solutions and deepen understanding of contemporary business phenomena.

Throughout the course of study, doctoral candidates engage in intensive coursework, research seminars, and workshops led by distinguished faculty members renowned for their expertise in various domains of business research. The curriculum is tailored to foster analytical skills, theoretical grounding, and methodological proficiency, enabling students to conceive, design, and execute independent research projects. Students are also encouraged to participate in international conferences, publish their findings in peer-reviewed journals, and collaborate on research initiatives with academic and industry partners, thereby enhancing their scholarly profile and professional network.

The programme typically spans three to four years, with a structured progression from coursework and literature review to the development of a dissertation proposal, extensive data collection, analysis, and eventual dissertation defense. Supportive supervision from experienced faculty guides students through each stage of their research journey, ensuring academic rigor and adherence to ethical standards. The university’s vibrant academic community and access to state-of-the-art research facilities provide an enriching environment conducive to scholarly excellence.

Graduates of the Doctoral Programme in Business at the University of Ljubljana are equipped to pursue careers in academia, research institutions, consulting firms, or leadership roles within the private and public sectors. They contribute to advancing knowledge, informing policy-making, and fostering innovation in the business landscape. The program’s international orientation and emphasis on high-quality research prepare doctoral candidates to become influential voices in the global academic and professional communities, driving sustainable economic development and organizational effectiveness.

The Doctoral Programme in Business at the University of Ljubljana offers a comprehensive and rigorous academic pathway designed for aspiring researchers and academic professionals seeking to advance their expertise in the field of business. This doctoral program aims to foster critical thinking, innovative research skills, and a deep understanding of contemporary business challenges across various sectors and disciplines. Throughout the program, students engage in advanced coursework, research methodology training, and specialized seminars to develop a solid foundation for independent scientific inquiry. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including strategic management, marketing, organizational behavior, finance, and entrepreneurship, allowing candidates to tailor their studies according to their research interests. Students are encouraged to undertake original research projects that contribute meaningfully to existing knowledge and address pressing issues in business environments. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining insights from economics, sociology, psychology, and technology to provide a holistic perspective on business phenomena. Faculty members are renowned experts committed to mentoring doctoral candidates through every phase of their research, from hypothesis formulation to data analysis and dissertation writing. Collaboration with international academic institutions and industry partners is also a key aspect of the program, providing students with valuable opportunities for networking and practical application of their research. Graduates of the Doctoral Programme in Business are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, research institutions, consulting firms, or executive roles within the corporate sector. The program is designed to cultivate analytical thinking, problem-solving capabilities, and a scholarly attitude, preparing students to contribute to academic discourse as well as to practical business solutions. By completing this programme, students will gain a prestigious doctoral degree from the University of Ljubljana, recognized nationally and internationally, opening doors to a wide range of professional and academic opportunities in the dynamic world of business.

The Doctoral Programme in Business at the University of Ljubljana requires candidates to possess a master’s degree or an equivalent qualification in a relevant field such as economics, management, or other related disciplines. Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic record, typically with a minimum grade point average or an equivalent metric, reflecting their capacity for independent research. Prior research experience, including publications or participation in research projects, is highly advantageous. The application process involves submitting a comprehensive research proposal outlining the intended area of investigation, research objectives, methodology, and expected contributions to the field of business studies. Candidates must provide proof of proficiency in English, such as TOEFL or IELTS scores, unless their prior education was completed in English. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research, requiring students to engage with various methodologies and theoretical frameworks applicable to business sciences. Candidates are expected to have proficiency in statistical analysis, data collection, and analysis software tools relevant to their research. The admission process includes an interview or assessment to evaluate the candidate’s research potential, motivation, and alignment with the program's focus areas. Once enrolled, doctoral students are required to undertake coursework covering advanced research methods, academic writing, and timely dissemination of research findings through publications and conference participation. The programme encourages collaboration with industry partners and other research institutions to enhance applied research skills. Regular progress reports and seminars are mandatory to monitor research advancement and provide feedback. Successful completion of the doctoral thesis, which must contribute original knowledge to the field of business, along with a successful public defence, is required for graduation. The programme aims to develop independent researchers capable of contributing to academia, industry, and policy-making through innovative research and critical analysis.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The doctoral programme in Business at the University of Ljubljana offers a comprehensive financing structure designed to support its students throughout their studies. Funding opportunities are primarily available through a combination of institutional scholarships, research grants, and external funding sources. The university allocates specific scholarships aimed at doctoral students, which are awarded based on academic merit, research potential, and financial need. These scholarships typically cover tuition fees partially or entirely, depending on the availability of funding and the student’s profile.

In addition to scholarships, doctoral candidates have access to research grants provided by the university or affiliated research institutes, enabling them to participate in national and international research projects. These grants often include stipends intended to cover living expenses and research costs, fostering a productive academic environment. Students are encouraged to apply for external funding opportunities such as national research programs, European Union research funding under schemes like Horizon Europe, and other international scholarship programmes aimed at supporting doctoral studies.

Furthermore, the university promotes cooperation with the business sector and industry, which may lead to funded research projects, internships, and collaborative initiatives that contribute to the students' financial support. Some students may also be employed as teaching or research assistants within the university, providing additional income while gaining valuable academic experience.

The overall financing structure of the programme is designed to minimize financial barriers for students, encouraging the best candidates globally to pursue their doctoral studies in Business at the University of Ljubljana. The availability and extent of financial aid depend on individual circumstances, the specific research focus, and the annual budget allocations by the university's administration. Detailed information about current scholarships, application procedures, and eligibility criteria can be obtained from the university’s official website and the doctoral programme coordinators.

The Doctoral Programme in Business at the University of Ljubljana offers a comprehensive and rigorous academic environment designed to prepare doctoral candidates for careers in research, teaching, and professional practice within the field of business. The programme is structured to foster advanced knowledge, critical thinking, and innovative research skills, enabling students to contribute significantly to academic literature and practical applications in business disciplines. Participants have the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of topics including management, marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, and organizational behavior, supported by experienced faculty members who are often involved in international research projects and collaborations.

The curriculum combines coursework, seminars, and independent research, culminating in a doctoral thesis that advances theoretical understanding and offers practical insights. Students benefit from state-of-the-art research facilities and access to extensive academic resources, including library collections, online databases, and participation in conferences and workshops. The programme emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and encourages international mobility, with opportunities for exchange programs and joint supervision arrangements with partner institutions worldwide.

Admission requirements typically include a relevant master’s degree, demonstrated research capability, and proficiency in English, as the programme is conducted primarily in English. The duration of the programme usually spans three to four years, with students expected to produce publishable research by the end of their studies. Graduates of the programme are well-equipped to pursue academic careers at universities and research institutions, hold senior positions in the private or public sectors, or become entrepreneurs and industry experts. The Doctoral Programme in Business at the University of Ljubljana aims to develop scholarly leaders capable of addressing complex business challenges and contributing to sustainable economic development through innovative research and teaching excellence.