The PhD in Business Administration at the Mitchell College of Business is designed for experienced instructors aiming to transition into tenure-track faculty roles and seasoned professionals seeking to leverage their expertise in the consulting field. This program provides the advanced research skills, academic credentials, and strategic insights needed to elevate your career while allowing you to maintain your current professional commitments. This three-year, executive-style program offers rigorous instruction in a flexible format for working professionals:
- Years 1 & 2: Coursework in business content areas, research methodology, and applied
statistical analyses (42 credit hours, including research seminars) - Year 3: Dissertation research and completion (18 credit hours)
- Total Program Length: 36 months
Designed for Working Professionals
Classes meet in-person three times per semester (fall, spring, summer), minimizing disruption to your career and personal commitments:
- Class Schedule:
- Thursday evening arrival
- Friday: Classes 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Saturday: Classes 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Sunday: Classes 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Between in-person sessions, students complete coursework and research assignments, ensuring continuous progress without sacrificing professional responsibilities.
Choose Your Area of Expertise
The program offers three high-impact areas of focus to align with your interests and career goals:
- Business Analytics – Leverage data-driven insights for strategic decision-making
- Management – Explore leadership, strategy, and organizational effectiveness
- Marketing – Analyze consumer behavior, branding, and digital engagement
Each track follows a carefully designed course sequence, with interdisciplinary learning opportunities across the curriculum. Explore course details through the links below.
Who Should Apply?
We welcome driven professionals eager to expand their expertise and influence in business research, teaching, or consulting. This program is designed for those ready to engage in rigorous scholarship, contribute new insights to their field, and take the next step in their academic or professional journey. Take the next step toward a transformational PhD experience.