Mitchell College of Business PhD Program Enrolls Record Number of Students

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Posted on May 30, 2025 by Amanda Akey

Amanda Akey

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The Mitchell College of Business PhD in Business Administration is leading the way for research education at the University of South Alabama. This week Mitchell College proudly welcomed its largest PhD cohort to date, with 25 new students embarking on their doctoral journey. Additionally, during the 2024-2025 academic year, the program produced 21 graduates, the highest number of research doctorate graduates out of any program at the university. 

The Mitchell College’s doctoral program is designed for business professionals and academic faculty seeking to advance their careers. The curriculum promotes a balanced understanding of conceptual, theoretical, and methodological components. Students develop a comprehensive understanding of their chosen concentration as well as essential research methods, including a wide variety of analytical methods. The robust program offers concentrations in business analytics, management and marketing, attracting diverse cohorts of students from across the globe. 

The Mitchell College PhD program differs from many traditional programs. The curriculum was “specifically designed for individuals to continue working while pursuing their doctoral degree,” said Dr. Joe Hair, Director of the PhD program. The program is structured to be delivered on extended residency weekends for the first two years and directed dissertation research during the third year for a total of 60 credit hours. The on campus class sessions provide flexibility for students to work full time and also attend in-person classes. The in-person format is especially valuable, offering students the chance to engage in meaningful classroom discussions, collaborate directly with faculty and other students on research and build lasting relationships with their peers.

The Mitchell College PhD program is led by world-class doctoral faculty with extensive experience in university teaching and research. Mitchell College PhD faculty are widely published in top academic business journals, with specific areas of focus in economic development, leadership, marketing, organizational psychology, and cutting edge research methodology and analytics.  Faculty work closely with PhD students to guide their research interests, support their work in academic publications and encourage presentations at scholarly conferences. 

As the program continues to grow, Mitchell College remains committed to supporting professionals who are ready to advance their careers by applying cutting edge research approaches and academic excellence to solve challenging business problems and pursue emerging opportunities.

Individuals interested in pursuing a PhD in Business Administration are encouraged to contact the Department of Graduate Programs at the Mitchell College of Business to learn more about future enrollment opportunities.

Phone: (251) 460-6418
Email: mcobgraduate@southalabama.edu

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