courses for phd after mba

Is it Possible to Get My PhD After My MBA?

In academia, numerous accomplishments can be achieved. You can earn a dual degree and have expertise in multiple fields, or further your career potential by going back to school . But what about progressing from an MBA to a PhD? 

In regards to higher education, many consider earning a PhD, or doctorate degree, the pinnacle of success. Usually, due to passion for a particular industry or subject, a PhD candidate will spend years of rigorous research to unpack its intricacies and become a leading expert in the field.  At the end of their studies, they are able to finally see their work come to fruition when they receive their doctorate and join alongside other scholars. However, is it typical for an MBA graduate to move onto pursuing their PhD? And is there a specific purpose? Are there different types of PhD programs? What is the difference between a PhD and DBA?

To answer the budding question: yes, you can pursue your PhD after earning your MBA, and choosing to earn a doctorate is entirely up to you and your aspirations. To help you better understand if getting a PhD is the right choice, we look at the path an MBA graduate can take to earn their PhD, one of the higher purposes of a doctorate, and the different types of academic programs. 

What is a PhD, and What is it Used For? 

By definition, a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy in a particular discipline, which is why it's also referred to as a doctorate. This focus is typically for individuals highly passionate about a specific subject matter, driven by the pursuit to understand it better through rigorous research. A majority of students seeking their PhD are eager researchers, although there are always exceptions, and each carries out years of highly intensive research to conclude their original thesis and earn their doctorate. 

In terms of translating your education into a career, a doctorate can be used in a plethora of fields, especially if one’s thesis is around a wider subject matter and can be a discipline applied to various industries (take organizational development, for example). For those who are passionate about a career in research, a doctoral degree is a perfect fit. Possibly the most popular field for those with a doctorate is a fruitful career in academia, teaching their subject matter to others interested in the same area. Many graduates become faculty members at business schools upon completing their PhD and provide their expertise to their students. Regardless of which industry you choose, you can be assured that a PhD will provide you with numerous opportunities. 

How Long Does it Take to Progress from an MBA to PhD?

The timeframe for earning your PhD can vary depending on program and location. Many countries have varying timelines of how long the completion of a doctoral program will take. In the United States, the average is around 4-5 years of completion after receiving your Master of Business Administration. 

Do You Need an MBA to Get a PhD?

To be accepted into a doctoral program, you must have a master’s degree. It does not have to be a Master of Business Administration, but it does need to be a master’s of some form. Depending on your area of specialization, it could be advantageous to earn your MBA in pursuit of a PhD if you are planning to embark on a career in business upon completion of your doctorate. Additionally, one important aspect to consider is the program itself. It is important to look into a program’s requirements before applying to meet the eligibility criteria. 

The Difference Between a DBA and a PhD 

For those specifically interested in a career in business, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a highly beneficial doctoral program. A DBA focuses on a broader spectrum of business disciplines, dedicating research toward multiple corporate facets, and practical implementation. On the contrary, a PhD narrows into a specific area of discipline and research, emphasizing theory, and it’s potential implications. While both are heavily centered around research and implementation, a DBA sets business executives and leaders on a path to discover new possibilities for their organizations and businesses. In a way, it allows established business professionals to “trailblaze” the way for new and innovative ideas that can disrupt the market and set a precedent for the future of business.

Get Your MBA or DBA at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School

At Pepperdine Graziadio, we proudly offer degrees to accommodate business professionals at any stage of their lives and careers. Our full and part-time MBA programs are designed to prepare candidates for a successful career in values-based business leadership. All of our MBA programs offer a personalized learning approach executed by our world-class faculty. Each program is characterized by its top-ranked business curriculum that can be coupled with an academic concentration. 

Our Executive Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program has been carefully designed for the tenured business leader looking to drive groundbreaking innovations. This rigorous program allows candidates to gain in-depth knowledge and finetune their expertise through applied research. Also, executives enjoy learning alongside changemakers in various industries and participating in exclusive opportunities available only to DBA candidates.

Learn more about which programs fit your career aspirations and academic interests.

Learn more about how to achieve your career goals with a degree from Pepperdine Graziadio Business School.

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Doing A PhD After MBA: Universities, Programs, Benefits

• Updated on  
• Jun 3, 2024

Higher studies often encompass the decision of pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s and then, if you feel like delving deeper into your chosen field, a doctorate degree.

When it comes to the vast domain of commerce, a PhD is commonly chosen by those wanting to explore the academic arena. Working professionals don’t usually opt for a PhD given the extensive amount of time it demands and also because it has more academic use.

So, if you have recently completed your Master of Business Administration, choosing a PhD might require some thinking to finally arrive at the right decision. This blog aims to elaborate on what a PhD after MBA entails and how it can advance you further in your career journey.

This Blog Includes:

Phd after mba in india, benefits of phd after mba, top phd programs after mba, eligibility, phd after mba abroad – admission process & entrance exams , phd after distance mba, phd after mba in finance, top universities for phd after mba abroad, top countries to study phd after mba, career scope & employment sectors.

Want to pursue PhD after MBA in India? There are colossal benefits of PhD after an MBA that can equip you with a competitive edge in the management and business world as well as the research and professional exposure you need to aim for high-salary managerial profiles in India and abroad.

Here’s what you need to know about PhD after MBA in India:

• Eligibility : You must have completed a 2-year MBA degree to apply for PhD in India along with qualifying for UGC-NET or GATE exam to gain admission at top business schools and universities in India.
• Duration : In India, you can complete your PhD after MBA in 3-5 years depending upon the program and university.
• Requirements : For PhD after MBA in India, you must have GATE/ UGC-NET / CSIR-NET scores, a research proposal ready along with letters of recommendation and optional work experience to increase your chances of admission.
• PhD in Management
• PhD in Organizational Behaviour/Management
• PhD in Behavioural Finance
• PhD in Applied Statistics
• PhD in Information Technology/Data Analytics
• PhD in Market Analysis and Research
• Faculty of Management Studies, University of Delhi
• Benaras Hindu University
• Indian Institutes of Management Studies (IIMs)
• Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs)
• National Institute of Management, Calcutta

Also Read: PhD Scholarships in India

As the highest academic degree in theoretical disciplines, a PhD or Doctorate of Philosophy is perfect for those seeking a greater depth of knowledge in a specific area of interest. Going for a PhD after MBA can be beneficial for a plethora of reasons, some of which are given in a rundown below:

• Get a Competitive Edge over MBA
• Master Research Skills and Methodologies
• Inclination Towards Academic Arena
• Chance to Become a Professor
• Become an Academician at Business School

Also Read: Research Institutes in India

The average duration of PhD after MBA is approximately 5-7 years where the 1st year is more theoretical but from the beginning of the second year, you can pick specializations as per your choice. In Business and Management, there is an array of specialised PhD courses that one can choose from. Here are the top specialisations to pursue PhD after MBA:

• PhD in Entrepreneurship
• PhD in Commerce
• PhD in Accounting
• PhD in Economics
• PhD in Commercial Law
• PhD in Human Resource Management
• PhD in Operational Research
• PhD in Marketing
• PhD in Healthcare and Management
• PhD in Organizational Behaviour
• PhD in Finance
• PhD in Chemistry
• PhD in Computer Science
• PhD in Engineering
• PhD in Political Science
• PhD in Education
• PhD in Statistics
• PhD in Psychology

Though the specific prerequisites might vary from one university to another, there are some general criteria for PhD after MBA or any other postgraduate program that every candidate needs to fulfil.

The primary requirement is that of a master’s degree in the related discipline (from a recognised institution) in which one is applying for a doctoral degree, if you are applying for a PhD in Business Administration, you need to have completed a postgraduate course like, MBA, MIM, amongst others.

Along with these, you will be required to submit the following documents:

• GATE/CSIR-NET/UGC-NET Scores for Indian universities
• Research Proposal
• Letters of Recommendation (Academic and/or Professional)
• GRE, English proficiency test scores such as IELTS , TOEFL , etc. and SOP and LOR s to apply for PhD after MBA abroad
• An Updated Resume or CV
• Academic Transcripts

Also Read: Part Time PhD

If you are planning to pursue PhD after MBA from abroad then the following points will guide you through the application process and entrance exams: 

• The application process for global universities is very different from Indian universities. You don’t have to give any entrance exam to pursue a PhD after MBA from abroad, rather, you need to submit a GMAT / GRE score. 
• LORs, SOPs and previous projects and research work matter a lot when you are looking to pursue PhD abroad. They make your profile strong and increase the chances of getting selected. 
• Most universities have a 3-5% acceptance rate for PhD programs. Thus, it is essential to make your application strong, if you need any help regarding the same, get in touch with Leverage Edu experts.
• The PhD curriculum more or less remains the same, you need to work on your thesis and submit it in the provided duration to complete your PhD after MBA.

Also Read: How to Get PhD Funding?

Yes, it is possible to apply for PhD after distance MBA but if you are aiming for a doctoral course, you must pursue your MBA from a UGC-accredited university or college. To apply for a PhD after a Distance MBA, you must be able to provide valid transcripts as well as mark sheets from your MBA thus it is essential to check the certification of the institution before studying for an MBA.

MBA in Finance professionals often opts for a PhD to pursue a career in research or academia. Finance is one of the most popular specialisations for PhD after MBA and students can choose from various subjects like Financial Management, Financial Analysis, Financial Modelling, etc. To pursue PhD in Finance in India, you will have to qualify for UGC NET , NMIMS or NIPER JEE while you will have to qualify GRE for universities abroad. Let’s take a look at the universities for PhD after MBA in Finance:

• Indian Institute of Foreign Trade , New Delhi
• National Institute of Technology, Silchar
• Department of Management Studies-IIT Madras
• Alliance School of Business, Bangalore
• Ahmedabad University
• Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management

Here are the major careers for PhD after MBA in Finance:

• Statistician
• Financial Analyst
• Chartered Financial Analyst
• Stock Broker
• Budget Analyst
• Financial Researcher

Numerous renowned business schools and universities across the globe offer specialised PhD programs in varied fields of Business, Commerce and Management. To help you further in your research, we have listed down some of the major academic institutions that are internationally popular for their offered specialised courses for those aspiring to pursue a PhD after MBA:

Many study destinations like the UK, USA, Australia and Canada are renowned for their research doctoral courses so selecting the right country to study PhD is an important decision you must carefully take. Let’s take a look at the top countries to study PhD after MBA and their popular research universities:

PhD after MBA in the UK

Here are the major universities to study PhD in the UK:

• University of Bradford
• SOAS University of London
• Cardiff Metropolitan University
• University of Birmingham
• Queen’s University Belfast
• University of Kent
• Hult International Business School

Also Read: PhD Scholarships in the UK

PhD after MBA in the USA

Popular for its STEM courses as well as top-ranked business schools, the top universities for PhD in the USA are:

• Harvard University
• Stanford University
• University of California, Berkeley
• University of Columbia
• University of Wisconsin
• Cornell University
• Kellogg School of Management

PhD after MBA in Canada

Canada is another renowned destination for PhD programs and offers a plethora of specialisations in business and management. Here are the popular universities for PhD in Canada :

• University of Toronto
• University of British Columbia
• McGill University
• McMaster University
• University of Montreal
• University of Alberta
• University of Ottawa
• University of Calgary

Also Read: PhD in Canada with Scholarship

PhD after MBA in Australia

The land of Kiwis is internationally lauded for its focus on research education and high-ranked entrepreneurial programs. Check out the top universities for PhD in Australia :

• The University of Queensland  
• The University of Western Australia  
• University of Wollongong 
• Queensland University of Technology  
• Swinburne University of Technology  
• University of Tasmania 
• University of Sydney

PhD after MBA in New Zealand

If you are looking for affordable PhD courses after completing MBA, New Zealand is the best place for you. Take a look at the popular universities for PhD in New Zealand :

• The University of Otago
• University of Canterbury
• Lincoln University
• The University of Auckland
• Victoria University of Wellington

Adding the renowned academic degree of PhD to your list of qualifications, there are a plethora of career opportunities awaiting you. Since a doctoral degree in business-related disciplines provides you with an insightful acumen into the commercial arena, you will be equipped with the knowledge of data analysis and business trends and organisational problems.

Further, you will be skilled with research methods such as econometrics, experimental methods, field studies, modelling etc. So, with a PhD after MBA, you will not only be a perfect candidate for academic profiles but you can also explore plentiful prospects in the corporate world.

Here are the top job profiles you can explore after pursuing PhD after MBA:

• Research Analyst
• Business Analyst
• Management Consultant
• Business Development Consultant
• Entrepreneur
• Professor /Lecturer
• Academician
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
• Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

The salary of PhD after MBA in India is somewhere between INR 7 Lakhs to 17 Lakhs per annum depending upon whether you work in the corporate sector or explore the academic domain working as a lecturer or academician.

We have elucidated upon the major employment sector for graduates with a PhD in Management and Commerce-related specialisations below:

Also Read: Branches of Chemistry

Anyone with an MBA degree can pursue a PhD. In fact, it’s a good idea to do PhD after MBA if you are interested in exploring the arena of academics or research and you can also pursue opportunities in consulting firms in the corporate sector. Also, the top B-Schools such as Columbia University, Yale University, Harvard University, INSEAD, and London Business School have most professors with a PhD degree. So, if you aim to teach at top business schools in the world, pursuing PhD after MBA is indeed a good decision.

The exact duration of PhD depends on the specialization as well as the university, the fact whether it’s part-time or full-time, and other factors. Doing a PhD after MBA usually takes 4-5 years but relying upon varied factors, be it your chosen course or institution, it can take less than 3 years and as long as 7-8 years to complete.

Yes. You can do a PhD in Psychology after MBA. However, you will need 55% marks in your MBA discipline to qualify for a PhD in Psychology after MBA.

A PhD in Business is often referred to as a DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) which is usually considered as the sequel of the MBA and is the highest form of management degree. Pursuing a doctorate in Business or its related specializations would provide you with an enhanced insight into the commercial arena after which you can target higher-level career profiles ranging from a business analyst to a consultant or you can pursue academic positions which is another beneficial route to take.

The essential prerequisite for a PhD is to have a master’s degree along with the minimum marks specified by the academic institution you are applying for. With an MBA, you are eligible to pursue a PhD in commerce-related disciplines while opting for a doctorate in other domains might depend on the criteria provided by the particular university.

The answer to this question is explained well in the points given below: 1. Yes, you can do PhD after a distance MBA 2. Your degree must be from a UGC-recognized institution 3. The application process remains the same as for the regular degree holders 4. Make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements 5. Some universities prefer candidates with regular MBA degrees.

Related Reads

Going for a PhD after MBA will equip you with one of the best educational combinations in the world. It might not be the easiest of programs to pursue but the benefits are going to be fruitful for your professional journey.

If you are planning to pursue a doctoral degree and don’t know how to go about it, sign up for a 30-minute career counselling session with our experienced team of mentors and experts at Leverage Edu and we’ll guide through the process of choosing the right PhD program and university that fits your interests and aspirations and can provide you with extensive exposure and opportunities to soar ahead in your career.

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14 comments

I like your article great content. Thank you

Hi Akash, we are glad to know that you liked our blog. If you need any further assistance regarding the admission process to any PhD course abroad, get in touch with our experts and we will help you build an awesome career.

Great post.

We are glad to know that you liked our work! Don’t forget to share it with your friends who are looking for PhD courses after MBA.

I have done MBA. My specialization is marketing (major) & human resource(minor).I want to know which specialization should I choose for PhD or Can I choose other specialization like social work, political science,etc.

Hi Abhishek, to know which PhD specialization would suit you the best, reach out to our experts at – 88262 00293. You can also register for a free career counselling here – https://leverageedu.com/admissions/study-abroad-admission/ .

Nice blog thanks for sharing.

Hi Thomas, thanks for your feedback! Check out our blog on PhD entrance exams to know more about the ways for pursuing this course – https://leverageedu.com/blog/phd-entrance-exams/ .

Very good article. In my opinion, having a PhD will make you more likely to earn a higher salary over someone with just a Master’s degree. Nowadays more professionals are doing PhD research programs for a better career.

Thank you for the feedback and for sharing your opinion, Rohan!

Thank you very much for your elaboration on Ph.D. after MBA. I would like to know which specializations are available here in the USA.. Thank you.

Hi George, To know about the specializations of your choice, get in contact with our experts at 1800572000.

Hello I’m Amir I done MBA 3.5year and I want to study PhD directly after MBA can u guide me forther I continue which subjects

Hi Amir, To get our profile evaluated for pursuing a PhD after MBA, give us a call on 1800572000 and our experts will guide you about the same.

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• Harvard Business School →
• Doctoral Programs →

PhD Programs

• Accounting & Management
• Business Economics
• Health Policy (Management)
• Organizational Behavior
• Technology & Operations Management

Students in our PhD programs are encouraged from day one to think of this experience as their first job in business academia—a training ground for a challenging and rewarding career generating rigorous, relevant research that influences practice.

Our doctoral students work with faculty and access resources throughout HBS and Harvard University. The PhD program curriculum requires coursework at HBS and other Harvard discipline departments, and with HBS and Harvard faculty on advisory committees. Faculty throughout Harvard guide the programs through their participation on advisory committees.

How do I know which program is right for me?

There are many paths, but we are one HBS. Our PhD students draw on diverse personal and professional backgrounds to pursue an ever-expanding range of research topics. Explore more here about each program’s requirements & curriculum, read student profiles for each discipline as well as student research , and placement information.

The PhD in Business Administration grounds students in the disciplinary theories and research methods that form the foundation of an academic career. Jointly administered by HBS and GSAS, the program has five areas of study: Accounting and Management , Management , Marketing , Strategy , and Technology and Operations Management . All areas of study involve roughly two years of coursework culminating in a field exam. The remaining years of the program are spent conducting independent research, working on co-authored publications, and writing the dissertation. Students join these programs from a wide range of backgrounds, from consulting to engineering. Many applicants possess liberal arts degrees, as there is not a requirement to possess a business degree before joining the program

The PhD in Business Economics provides students the opportunity to study in both Harvard’s world-class Economics Department and Harvard Business School. Throughout the program, coursework includes exploration of microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, probability and statistics, and econometrics. While some students join the Business Economics program directly from undergraduate or masters programs, others have worked in economic consulting firms or as research assistants at universities or intergovernmental organizations.

The PhD program in Health Policy (Management) is rooted in data-driven research on the managerial, operational, and strategic issues facing a wide range of organizations. Coursework includes the study of microeconomic theory, management, research methods, and statistics. The backgrounds of students in this program are quite varied, with some coming from public health or the healthcare industry, while others arrive at the program with a background in disciplinary research

The PhD program in Organizational Behavior offers two tracks: either a micro or macro approach. In the micro track, students focus on the study of interpersonal relationships within organizations and the effects that groups have on individuals. Students in the macro track use sociological methods to examine organizations, groups, and markets as a whole, including topics such as the influence of individuals on organizational change, or the relationship between social missions and financial objectives. Jointly administered by HBS and GSAS, the program includes core disciplinary training in sociology or psychology, as well as additional coursework in organizational behavior.

Accounting & Management  

Business economics  , health policy (management)  , management  , marketing  , organizational behavior  , strategy  , technology & operations management  .

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Why a Doctorate in Business Administration Is Becoming More Valuable

Sponsor content from upGrad.

At the turn of the 20th century, the world was industrializing at a rapid pace. Businesses were growing larger and more complex, with more employees working in more diversified divisions spread across more geographical boundaries.

As a result, demand grew for people who had special training in managing the general operations of a business, which led to the creation and proliferation of the Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree.

More than 100 years later, MBAs have become a commodity that no longer serve organizations’ core needs.

In today’s age of data and information, knowledge has become the most valuable resource. Companies don’t necessarily need more general managers who can assess broad patterns across multiple industries—they need people with deep expertise in specific domains who can analyze data and generate unique insights that lead to better business decisions.

That’s why Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) holders are becoming increasingly valuable in the modern workplace.

DBA is a professional degree representing the highest level of qualification in management. In contrast to an MBA, it takes students on a different path toward acquiring and using business knowledge.

For an MBA, students spend two years taking a broad range of practical courses to learn about several pillars of business—such as accounting, finance, marketing, leadership, operations, strategy, and ethics—to help them become effective leaders across many industries.

By contrast, DBAs spend up to two years studying academic literature across several domains and up to two additional years designing and executing an original research project: a dissertation focused on one domain. The primary goal of a DBA is to produce scholarly individuals who have deep expertise in a field of management.

When seeking executive-level positions, DBAs’ “Dr.” titles are likely to help them stand out from their peers. DBAs can also pursue high-level positions in areas such as consulting by becoming subject-matter experts—or maintain ties with academia as full-time or adjunct professors.

DBAs’ training gives them diverse career options. The academic literature they read gives them expertise in understanding management theories that can help them analyze real-world situations and differentiate the signal from the noise. A DBA specializing in innovation can assess whether newcomers to a market pose a credible threat as a disruptive innovation to an existing company.

Students then learn advanced scientific techniques in quantitative and/or qualitative methodologies, which trains them in analyzing data to generate valid inferences that their organizations can use for decision-making purposes. Rather than relying on gut feel and graphs, DBAs can use powerful techniques such as sampling data to reduce bias, using statistical regressions to identify the strongest factors that influence an outcome, or designing an experiment to gain 100% certainty over the causal relationship between variables.

Finally, DBAs combine their business knowledge with analytical skills to design and execute original research studies, making them the world’s leading experts in particular domains.

DBAs also stand out because they represent only 2% of all people who hold higher degrees in business. In 2021, more than 250,000 students graduated with MBAs or specialist degrees in business; only 5,000 graduated with doctorates.

While a DBA may represent an attractive option that can be highly valuable to organizations today, they are not necessarily recommended for everyone.

To help you determine whether a DBA is right for you, the most important question to ask yourself centers on whether you’re satisfied with the tools and frameworks you use to analyze data and information to make important business decisions. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering where these frameworks come from—or whether there might be a better way to make decisions—consider applying to a DBA program. These programs are designed to channel deep intellectual interests and passions toward producing business knowledge that’s both theoretically novel and practically relevant.

DBA training may help you develop deeper knowledge than an MBA program will while opening doors to more ambitious careers in industry or academia. While MBA degrees are designed to meet the needs of 20th-century businesses, DBAs can help meet the needs of organizations today—and well into the future.

Learn more about how earning a DBA can help you step up your career.

27 Courses after MBA you can Consider to Upgrade Your Career

If you have completed your MBA, congratulations! You now have a strong network and are exposed to new career opportunities. But sometimes, a general management degree may not be enough for you to dive deeper into a specific area of interest. That is why there are several well-known courses after MBA that you can opt for. If you are wondering why you should pursue a course after MBA, let us inform you that an MBA degree is one of the most sought-after programs worldwide. This means that you will face stiff competition to stand out from your peers.

Here is where a course can help you. Once you complete a short-term course after MBA, you have icing on your cake. A good course indicates the extra effort you have put in to be the best in the business. That never goes out of notice!

Now that we have your attention, let us inform you that we have curated a list of 27 courses after MBA that you choose from. Are you excited?

Also read: Jobs Opportunities after MBA in India 2021- Complete List of Career, Scope, salary and Post MBA Degree

In this blog, we will cover the following topics:

1. Different courses after MBA that you can apply

2. commonly asked questions.

In this section, we will cut to the chase and discuss 27 different short courses after MBA that will give you the boost to speed up your career. Do stick with us until the end, as we will also discuss the various questions you might have upon reading these course options!

Let’s begin.

I. ISB Certificate Programme in Business Analytics (CBA)

The ISB Certificate Programme in Business Analytics or CBA is also known as the Advanced Management Programme in Business Analytics or AMPBA. This is a short-term course after MBA for mid-career professionals with 2-15 years of experience. The duration of the program is 15 months.

This Indian School of Business course is an excellent opportunity for you to balance your work and your pursuits. This program combines classroom learning with technology-aided learning platforms. This program also uses foundational projects with different modules to help you learn real-world solutions to business problems.

Also read: Indian School of Business

Typically, for this course after MBA, you will have to be on any of the two campuses of ISB for a 5-day schedule of classroom learning. This occurs every alternate month for 12 months, which can be planned to include a weekend. During the classroom sessions, you would be expected to stay on campus and attend teaching sessions in the morning and guest lectures, projects, and group work in the evening.

For more information, check out ISB’s page .

Also read: ISB YLP: The Guide for Every Fresher’s MBA Dreams!

II. Ph.D. in Management

A Ph.D. in management offered by different IIMs will help you gain a deeper perspective into management. It is an ideal course after MBA, especially for those in the consulting field and those looking for a career in academics. This program is spread across 4-5 years, where you will be dedicated solely to research from your third year.

The Ph.D. in management will offer you research topics across marketing, finance, economics, human resources, etc. Other benefits include a library with various literature, journals, and databases. Along with this treasure of knowledge, you would also enjoy high computing facilities, lodging on campus, fellowship, and money for research!

This program also focuses on improving your business management fundamental and leadership skills to help you stand apart in your industry. You will be involved in monitoring, controlling, leading, planning, and organizing business activities.

To know more about Ph.D. in Management, click on this link .

III. Executive MBA

Designed for working professionals who are in mid-senior level, the Executive MBA is a shorter MBA program that can add the ‘double MBA’ tag on your resume! Several B-Schools in Indian and abroad offer Executive programs that help you interact with the best in the industry to take your career to the next level.

According to HughesEducation.com , the top Indian B-Schools offering Executive MBA programs are listed down below. We have also shared the fees required for each of their Executive MBA programs.

Also read: What is the ROI of an Executive MBA?

IV. Doctor of Business Administration

DBA or Doctor of Business Administration graduates move to become leaders in the industry or the public sector. If you choose this course after your MBA, you will have several career options as a financial analyst, consultant, manager, or director. The DBA also offers courses and specializations in various fields that help you cultivate high-level decision-making and problem-solving skills.

If you are interested in this program, let us inform you that applicants require a minimum of 3.0 GPA or a related master’s degree. While some DPA programs do admit bachelor degree holders with experience, but they would need to complete foundational coursework.

To know about the best Doctor of Business Administration programs across international B-Schools, click on this link .

V. Postgraduate Diploma In Marketing Management

If you wish to succeed in the marketing world, you would need a lot of creativity and proper strategy. While the former is entirely on you, the latter can be taught and understood in a B-School. That is why a management graduate with a marketing degree becomes the choicest candidate.

To know more, you can click this link .

Also read: What to Do After MBA: Here’s How You Can Become a Marketing Manager

VI. Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

The APICS CPIM or the Certified in Production and Inventory Management is a globally recognized certification. If you wish to establish yourself in the supply chain division, this certification will help you get that extra boost. In this course, you will get a thorough understanding and knowledge of the production planning and inventory management of a company in global operations.

This certification has five modules with two APICS CPIM exams- Part 1 and Part 2. Each module will require 3.5 hours to complete. As for the fee for the APICS PLUS members, it is $495 per exam, and for CORE members/non-members, it is $690 per exam.

Also, you can prepare for this exam at your convenience, as the entire course materials are available online!

VII. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional or PMP certification is issued by the Project Management Institute or PMI. It is a non-profit organization in the area of project management. This certification is ideal if you wish to be a leading Project manager. It is also a testament that you have what it takes to get the job done, considering the hours of effort you will put in for the certificate.

Now they have a long list of requirements which starts from having 4500 hours leading and directing projects. This is in addition to a four-year bachelor’s degree and 35 hours of project management education. What we can understand is that it is suited for mid-senior level professionals. Now, if you do not have a four-year degree, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent and an addition of 7500 hours of leading and directing projects.

As for the exam, it will be of four hours with 200 multiple-choice questions. The cost involved would be US$405 for members and US$555 for non-members.

For more information, kindly check out PMI’s website.

Also read: Post-MBA Career in IT Project Management

VIII. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

This short-term course after MBA is designed to meet the needs of the finance world and able you with the correct information to handle it. For this course, you only require a bachelor’s degree. Another good news is that if you are a student in your final year of graduation, you can apply for this certification course!

With this certification, you are sure to land a job in investment banking, portfolio management, equity research.

Now, if you are a working professional, you can pursue this program along with your job. All this course will require is that you give over 300 hours to prepare for the three levels.

For more information, you can click on this link.

IX. Financial Risk Management (FRM)

Did you know that FRM is one of the most chosen short-term courses after MBA? This short-term course would be ideal for you if you wish to work for investment banks, corporations, or asset management firms. Also, You do not need to be a mid-senior professional to be eligible to apply for this course. All you need is a minimum of two years of work experience. They also do not have any educational requirements.

Now, GARP offers this program with two levels. They hold the exam twice a year- November and May. All you will need to do is spend an average of 275 hours of preparation for this exam.

For more information, you can check out GARP’s website .

X. Certified Information Systems Auditor or CISA

This short course after MBA is conducted by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). If you are interested in the IT sector, then this certification is meant for you. Firstly, you will need five years of IT audit experience before you are eligible for getting the certification.

The exam is held thrice a year between February to May, June to September, and October to January.

For more information, you can check out ISACA’s website.

XI. Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA)

This short-term course after MBA is organized by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) for risk managers. Once you earn this certification, it will help you demonstrate your ability to ensure core business processes in risk management and governance.

However, if you choose to go ahead with this course, you need to work hard as this course does not have a fixed syllabus. As for eligibility, you will need a character certificate signed by an authorized person and a graduate degree and job experience in the finance sector.

This exam is ideal for you if you wish to build a career in credit risk management, risk assurance, quality assurance, audit, etc.

For more information, click on this link.

XII. Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

This course after MBA is a global certification for those of you who are interested in the supply chain. This program will help you get holistic information about the production, planning, and stock management of an organization’s operations.

Regarding the syllabus, the materials are available online, which means that you can prepare for this exam at your convenience.

XIII. SAP course

The SAP course after MBA will help you learn about managing financial assets, materials, cost accounting, production operations, personnel, and archived documents of a company. This program is divided into two courses- functional course and technical course. This means that you will be focusing more on coding modules.

XIV. Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications (PGDCA)

This course after MBA is conducted with programming languages like Java, C, C Packages. They also use operating systems like MS Office- Web Design, TALLY, Oracle-VB for information handling. Now, the good news for you is that you can either choose the one-year course (either full-time or part-time) with no previous experience.

XV. NSE’s Certification in Financial Markets

This course after MBA is ideal for those interested in capital markets. It also covers various areas of banking, financial markets, financial services, and financial literacy.

Also read: Post-MBA careers in Finance: 5 Key Points

XVI. Personality Development

Good speaking skill is a must-have in any industry today. So it is natural that if you opt for the personality development course after MBA, it will help you enhance your communication skills which in turn, will help you present your ideas with confidence. You can even choose to take this course before applying for a job to teach you how to communicate during an interview effectively.

XVII. Society for Human Resource Management

If you wish to impact the HR domain significantly, this course after MBA is well suited for you. This course after MBA HR will help you learn how to find practical solutions to real-world HR problems.

Did you know that HR management is one of the most popular branches in the MBA course? Every company requires a human resource department to act as the bridge between their employees and the management.

Also read: MBA in HR (Human Resource) – All About the Course, Syllabus & Scope

Upon completing this course, in addition to your MBA, you would be ideally suited for the following job roles:

• Recruitment Executive

• HR Executive

• Assistant Manager

• Business Development Manager

• Senior Associate

If you wish to enhance your resume and capabilities further, we are also sharing a few more courses that you can pursue after your MBA in HR.

• Talent Management Practitioner

• Certified Professional in Learning and Performance

• Senior Talent Management practitioner

• Associate Professional in Talent Development

XVIII. Language Course

If you know multiple languages, it offers you the opportunity to connect with different people across borders and truly become a world citizen. As such, several businesses look for people who are well-versed in multiple languages. That is why, many B-Schools too, have realized the importance of knowing different languages.

If you take up a language course after MBA, it helps you stand out amongst the crowd and opens up the possibility for you to get a job in different countries. Now, we do not just mean foreign languages; even if you are well-versed in local languages within India, it will help you form a deeper connection with your clients and customers. Now that is an advantage!

XIX. Coding

Data moves the world. Nowadays, every business is looking to invest in big data, and you utilize this trend as well! If you pursue a coding course after MBA, it will give you a significant edge over your competition as MBAs with digital knowledge are well-suited for large companies. Armed with the information about technology, you will be able to create a more significant impact in your industry and your organization.

XX. AWS- Amazon Web Services

A few years ago, a cloud would have a different meaning. But now, with several key players in cloud services, you would be ideally suited if you pursue this course after your MBA. The reason is simple. Several businesses need in-house club services, and you can offer them an edge with your MBA as well.

XXI. Inbound Marketing Certification Course

Marketing is another key factor of a successful business. With an inbound marketing certification, you can market yourself as an ideal choice for different companies. The reason is simple: you will be better equipped with information about inbound marketing approaches and getting holistic training in content creation, communication, etc. This is especially relevant now, considering the digital boom we are all experiencing together.

XXII. Marketing Management Professional Course

This course will help you develop your strategic thinking, which in turn, will be a valuable asset for any company. Several international and national B-Schools like Kellogg School of Management and ISBM offer this course which utilizes marketing skills to create an impact.

XXIII. Data Science

With the dawn of the digital age, there is a lot of information that can be analyzed to understand customer behavior and create a product that suits their needs. These extensive data extracted from sources like log files, financial transactions, and social media need an expert to comprehend their meaning.

If you are one such professional who loves crunching data, then a career in Data Science is right. If you take up this course after your MBA, it would only enhance your resume and give your prospective employers another reason to consider you for the job.

If you have pursued an MBA in Information Technology or other related fields, you can enroll in a data science course after MBA.

XXIV. Fellow Programmes in Management from IIM’s

The Fellow Programmes in Management from IIMs is a doctoral management program. This program will help you with thorough research and interdisciplinary understanding in different areas of business management, such as corporate strategy, production management, economics, and social sciences.

XXV. Second MBA from an international business school

Now, this is an interesting trend that you might not have noticed. Several MBA graduates who pass out from Indian B-Schools wish to take their careers to a greater height. But they do not opt for a part-time course that might not help them significantly; they choose to get another MBA from International B-Schools.

A second MBA can be lucrative, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of them being the cost. At this stage, if you are in your 40s and you wish to pursue another MBA, you will also have to consider your family and how you will manage this transition. We would suggest thinking it through and then make a decision.

Also read: MBA in India vs. MBA Abroad

XXVI. Operations Management

This branch of Business Administration works with managing the operations and analyzing the success and failure rates. If you take up an operations management course after your MBA, you will be responsible for improving the company’s sustainability. You will find yourself working in the planning department, plant operations, logistics, etc. The different types of job roles that you can find yourself in are as follows:

• Manager for Supply Chain

• Manager for Sales and Operations

• Vice President for Infrastructure Operations

XXVII. Digital Marketing

Digital marketing is the go-to marketing solution now. With the Covid situation, more businesses are currently focusing on a bigger digital marketing team that can leverage this situation to churn out relatable content for different products and services. Suppose you have completed your MBA in Marketing, then a digital marketing course after MBA is just what you need to strengthen your resume. Also, with digital marketing, you can think of starting your venture someday.

Also read: Top 10 CEOs with an MBA Degree

Now, a word of caution here, you need to be careful while selecting an institute to complete your digital marketing course.

We hope these 27 courses after MBA will help you get in-depth knowledge about your specific field. We are sure your resume and capabilities will ensure that you stand apart from the crowd.

If you are yet to apply for your GMAT or MBA, you can know more about GMAT preparation in 2021 and MBA applications , or you can check our YouTube channel .

Additionally, if you specifically need help with your MBA Application Interview Prep , reach out to us, and we will be happy to help. Click on the image below for further information on the MBA Interview Prep process.

Is Your Profile Good Enough For An MBA

Is phd possible after mba.

Yes, you can pursue a PhD after your MBA. However, you should know about the eligibility factor. You would require 50% or more marks in your post-graduation.

Which MBA course has highest salary?

Your salary would depend on the various factors- experience, B-School reputation, your skills. However, some of the courses with the highest salaries are:

• Healthcare Management
• International Business
• Information Technology

Which MBA is most in demand?

The most popular MBA is the general management program. However, apart from them, the popular MBA programs are:

• International Management
• Finance Leadership

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PhD after MBA

Education is a five-course meal with PhD as the ultimate dessert at the end of it all. Having said that, not all fields of study have had a long history of crowning a doctorate degree. It has traditionally been the highest degree in the sciences, and social sciences.

Somewhere in the middle of the previous century, though, business schools began to switch their focus from a purely vocational bend towards research oriented training, leading to what we now know as PhD in business, or management.

However, if you were to compare the share of Management PhDs in the US, for instance, with PhDs from other fields, the number is far from stellar, though marginally growing with each year. The picture below summarizes the rising number of Business Doctorate recipients between the years 1986 – 2016, as per NSF.gov . The corresponding percentages reflect the share of doctorate holders with respect to the total number of doctoral graduates. (Updated table from 2021 is available here )

For instance, in 2016, 22.9% of the total 54,904 doctoral recipients graduated with a PhD in Life Sciences, while Business Management PhDs accounted for only 2.8% of the entire body of Dr. XYZs graduating that year. In 2021, this percentage for Business Management majors was 1.3% and for Life Sciences was 22.6%.

So, clearly, this is a road less traveled as compared to your streamlined PhD, after MS, route.

The natural question, that follows, is what eludes PhD, in Business, from your everyday household fame?One of the possible reasons being that most business degrees have a lot more commercial capacity as compared to an academic one. Individuals who have an aptitude for business and have secured an MBA from any of the top few tiers of B-schools, generally follow the blazing path of success marked by their predecessors.

The most cited reason, for avoiding the path of business research is the ROI for the years invested, and the cost of opportunity lost while pursuing a semi-decade long journey towards the degree.

With the MBA degree taking a couple of years with average starting salaries north of $90,000, it is not a shocker to realize why some people would rather continue gaining work experience, and the fat paychecks, sans the PhD and its associated delayed gratification, if any (read Average MBA Starting Salary ).

That being the obvious reason, there is clearly another significant factor keeping most business graduates away from a doctoral path – research is not their calling.

This brings us to the next question.  

Why PhD after MBA?

What makes a PhD after MBA an attractive option? The thrill of research. The PhD program offers an opportunity to conduct independent study, scholarly research, and obtain an in-depth knowledge of a specialized field, which would be otherwise only superficially available to the more practical, commercially useful MBA degree.

The research training provides an awareness of the cutting-edge developments and the ability to evolve new insights at solving business problems. Doctoral graduates have years of experience in data analysis and data driven decision making, they are practiced with various research methodologies such as modeling, experimental methods, econometrics, field studies, and more.

As long as the individual has an aptitude for research, the real-world experiences of an MBA degree can motivate him to study relevant business problems.

The most common career path, offered after a PhD post MBA, is teaching. Faculties involved in active research, being an attractive indicator of b-school excellence, prompts a lot of well-known MBA, or other business programs, to hire PhDs as b-school professors.

QS Business School Rankings, for instance, takes in academic reputation and research paper citations into consideration for overall ranking. So does Financial Times MBA, EMBA and Online MBA Rankings. UT Dallas has a business school ranking list based solely on publication statistics in 24 leading business research journals.

Clearly, there is a competitive advantage afforded to PhD job applicants compared to MBAs, when it comes to protecting the interests of business schools. Success, in teaching and research, can lead to some very lucrative compensations.

Salaries, for some of the top b-school faculties, can be in the millions. (Read How much do top business school professors get paid? )

Other golden opportunities may even lead MBA+PhDs into consulting work in either well-known firms, or their own entrepreneurial ventures. PhDs derive wisdom from their theoretical, and uniquely devised methodologies for analysis, which when combined with the experiential training obtained during MBA, makes for a tremendous body of knowledge.

Hedge Funds are extremely selective about their recruits. While a lot of hedge funds believe in practical expertise more than academic experience, they are still known to hire PhDs to fill their analyst positions. Besides CFAs, MBAs, and other Master’s candidates, nearly 3% of hedge fund employees have a PhD.  

What kind of specializations are available to PhDs in Business?

PhD in Business Management, or its close kin Doctor in Business Administration (Harvard HBS), follows a variety of areas of study, often in collaboration with other departments. Some of those specializations are listed below (gathered from various b-school curricula, viz. Stanford GSB , Wharton , HBS ).

• Accounting: Research focuses on solving issues, related to accounting, using economics, decision theory, and statistical inference.
• Business Economics: This specialization combines economic analysis with business. The areas of focus may range from Behavioral Economics, Development Economics, Urban Economics, Risk Management, Economic Analysis & Policy, Organizations & Markets, Corporate Governance, and more.
• Finance: Research focus, such as in Wharton, is set on Asset Pricing, and Portfolio Management, Corporate Finance, International Finance, Macroeconomics, etc.
• Marketing: Research focus lies on solving marketing management issues faced by companies. Areas of study usually involve behavioral decision making, economics, industrial organization, statistics, management science, and more.
• Operations, Information & Technology: This area of research, such as in Stanford GSB, studies management of systems, processes, and networks. They include health care systems, product design, manufacturing, information systems, decision-making, operations management, etc.
• Organizational Behavior: Research on concepts of psychology and sociology and their impact on behavior within complex organizations.
• Management: The specialization deals with management and leadership challenges.
• Strategy: Research studies the heart of what sustains and develops industries with competitive advantage.

The above list is not exhaustive and every b-school tailor their research target to set their competitive edge, so to speak. The other common specializations include, Ethics & Legal Studies, Health Care Management, Applied Economics, Decision Sciences, Human Resource Management, and more.  

Employment Options of Business PhD Graduates

While a majority of doctoral graduates find positions as faculties in reputable business schools, a fraction of them carry on in post-doctoral studies or head towards industry positions. Firms like McKinsey, Morgan Stanley, SEC, and more, are known to hire PhDs regularly.

Nearly 80% of graduating doctoral students are employed as faculty members in various business schools over the world, with the rest 20% employed in various industry positions. We have compiled the following table to reflect the employers of past PhD candidates from reputed business schools, mainly Wharton, HEC Paris, and Chicago Booth.  

Business School with Popular Research Programs

UT Dallas’ Naveen Jindal School of Management has created a business school ranking based on publications in 24 leading business journals, mentioned here . Some of the top research schools, assessed between 2012-2016, based on the ranking, are listed below.  

  The two related degrees of a Business PhD, in addition to an MBA, provide a set of well-rounded skills that are quite unique. These skills are not just desirable in mentors of the future business leaders, but also play a significant rolein gaining a thorough insight of the world of business management.

Recommended reading for the curious reader:

• PhD in Management Abroad
• Fully funded PhD, with stipend in Europe
• Is a PhD worth it?
• PhD in USA for international students
• How to choose your PhD topics?

  Sources: 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7

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16 thoughts on “PhD after MBA”

Hi I have done BCA+MCA from IGNOU. I got 92 percentage in BCA and 84 percentage in MCA. I have also worked as Software developer while doing my MCA for 3.5 years in a small start- up firm. I want to do MS in Computer Engineering. My question do top and middle tier American universities accept degrees from IGNOU (although it is a distance education IGNOU is recognised by government of India under act of parliament ) So Is my degrees from ignou valid for admission for MS in top american universities

Hi, I am pursuing PhD in India on the topic Organisational behaviour. But i am interested to do in USA. please tell me the ways if i can apply in some of the university’s. I am in US at present. kindly help me

Hello, I am name is Ankita, I have completed my Masters in Microbiology (Pune University). And I have been working in CSIR-URDIP as a patent analyst for the last 2 years now. As the place I am working at doesn’t give any kind of security in future, I have been off lately thinking about either apply for PhD abroad or MBA or do some courses regarding patent analysis abroad. Can you please give me any suggestion regarding what to do at this stage ?

@Dheeraj: There are some universities who consider IGNOU degrees. But it depends on which course you’re applying for. So best to check with them directly. We have some inputs for the MBA degree here: https://www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2014/02/17/mba-after-correspondence-courses-distance-education/

@Sanam: You’d probably have to reset the call and start afresh. Specially if your current work has little or no overlap with what you plan to do in the US.

@Ankita: The decision would hinge on what you want to do after the degree. For a business oriented role, an MBA works best. For academic roles, a PhD works better.

Hello.. I have done MBA(HR & MK)in 2018.. I wanna take admission for phd in IIT’s.. Plz suggest me how can apply for this Thnks

Hi, I have done MBA ( management and leadership) in 2018 from Keiser university, Fl . I want to start PhD in supply chain. Please suggest me how can I apply for this. Thanks

Hi myself Rupak Debnath I have done MBA in MARKETING and HR and now I want to pursue PhD degree from IGNOU. My question is will it be right enough to opt a higher degree from open University and how much can I be benefited from the decision I have taken?? Please reply without any hesitation……….. waiting for your valuable reply………. Thanks

hi, I have done my MBA in HR and now i want to pursue phd in economics in hyderabad central university. am i eligable to apply and if yes , how to do that. kindly please let me know. regards, bindu yamini.

Could you please guide which PHD Programm will be approraite post “MBA in Consultancy Management”

hi i have completed my B.tech in mechanical engineering+ now i completed my MBA in Marketing& finance now i want to do phd in the operational manger field pls suggest something…

Pros and cons of doing PhD in Business Management after M.Com

Hi I had completed my mba in marketing in 2005 now i want to do p.hd from Canada.. Pls suggest…

Am Naveen an International Business Marketing Consultant having completed PGDM in Marketing + IT and hold BBM in International Business and seek a PHD in similar field. Alternatively, am working a Managing Partner for a Jewel Store too. As am traveling on a daily basis I want to complete my PHD to teach full-time at universities or colleges worldwide. Thanks

Assalam o Alakom I have don my MBA 3.5 year and HR Now to pursue PHD .am i eligable to apply for PHD..how to do that. kindly pleas i want to brief me in detail explain trough whatsaf way +923428966603 regards, Muhammad Hanzala

Sir,Can I eligible for phd program(Europe countries).After completion of mba(open degree) program in india.

Hi, I am Ankit from India, I did complete my MBA with Finance in 2016 and I have 4 year experience in same profile. Now I am looking Phd program in Finance in USA.

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Career Scope & Valuable Reasons to do PhD after MBA

Blog Summary

Unlock the potential of your career with a PhD after MBA in Management. Discover how this esteemed degree can elevate your expertise and impact in the business world. From gaining credibility to refining leadership skills, explore the myriad benefits outlined in our comprehensive guide. Dive deeper into the advantages of online learning and accreditation, ensuring a seamless journey towards your academic and professional aspirations. Join us on a transformative path towards scholarly excellence and practical mastery in management studies.

A rising number of PhD management degree holder

Benefits of earning your phd after mba in management, choosing the best online university, look for research faculty members, review the student support services offered, look for flexible and available learning formats.

Whether you wish to become an academic teacher or help companies solve critical management issues, a PhD after an MBA degree in management will offer a path to greater credibility, influence, and impact.

PhD degree in a management program is usually grounded in preparing you with the skills and buoyancy you need to complete your thesis.

A PhD in Management empowers professionals in business and corporate to excel as leaders, scholars, and change-makers.

How to Get a PhD in Management

You can join PhD in management after an MBA or easily complete an online doctorate degree in management after your Master’s in Business Management. The pandemic has slowed the world down; schools, colleges, and most services have gone online.

PhD in management online programs were available even before the pandemic. You can complete your doctorate with full support from business experts and at your own pace.

More college graduates decide to pursue a master’s or doctorate degree in management. In recent years, the number of doctoral degree holders has grown to 4.5 million. Prospective students pursuing a PhD in management are increasing because they want to become experts in their chosen field. While there are many reasons to get a PhD after an MBA, it is a fact that you gain more knowledge and pass it on to the upcoming generation.

There are plenty of reasons to pursue a PhD in Management, from gaining a competitive edge to becoming a scholar-practitioner.

Be it contemplating your career or seeking to address your management challenges, a PhD in Management can help you accomplish your goals, personal and professional. Are you wondering how a PhD after an MBA can better transform you, your career, and others? Here it is.

For further insights into the benefits and considerations of pursuing an online PhD in management, we invite our audience to explore our blog titled “ Why Opt for an Online PhD in Management Today .”

Gain a competitive edge   When you choose to move ahead in your career, PhD in Management online program will become a marketable asset that will provide you competitive advantage in today’s fast-moving business world.

• Become a better problem solver A good PhD in Management program inspires you to do more than receive knowledge. It helps you to share knowledge with the whole world. You will also be achieving new levels of critical thinking that you can apply in new and exciting ways in your career and your field of interest.
• Refine your expertise A PhD in management will, through distance or online learning, give you ground in new strategies for leading businesses and people in an increasingly interlinked global society. It is sure to hone your strategy for leading people in an increasingly interwoven international community.
• There may be repetitive questions in your mind as to why get a PhD in business. But the benefits are vivid; you can gain universally applicable skills for uplifting companies in any sector. Also, as you gain inside-out knowledge, you are sure to create a place for yourself in the current role you are in and make a more significant impact. There are chances that even your friends and family members turn to you for advice and guidance on business-related issues.
• Evolve as a scholar-practitioner PhD after an MBA will give you the knowledge and self-confidence to attend academic conferences and present papers. You’ll discover your inner voice as a scholar and write a dissertation.
• A competitive pay You are sure to receive higher pay soon after you finish your PhD in business. There is always a tremendous demand for PhD holders in universities to teach students and the business field for various positions. You can create a difference in your organization and also in your community. By transferring the latest concepts and theories, you can bring changes after your PhD in Management degree.

It all starts with choosing the best university to earn a PhD or doctoral degree. Earning a degree can be more feasible and much more valuable if you choose the right online platform to pursue your PhD degree.  

Accredited university

You must ensure you receive a quality education by choosing an accredited university. It could be online or offline, but choosing the right university is recognised and accredited by an accrediting organization.

When considering the best university for a PhD in management , it’s crucial to prioritize accreditation and reputation to ensure a quality education and valuable degree.

There are a set of criteria to grant accreditation. The university must maintain its standards. When choosing a university for a doctorate, make sure you choose one accredited by an accredited body, be it any country.

Look for guiding faculty in any doctoral program. Faculty are not just academic professionals. They also work in the field and can help you understand how your doctorate in management can help you in your career. After all, they will be your mentors who decide whether you will receive the degree or not.

When choosing a PhD or doctoral program in business, make sure you have ample time to research the faculty. Check the following,

• Do they have good credentials?
• Are you comfortable having them as your advisor when you are a PhD in management or doctoral candidate?
• Does the research faculty communicate well with you?
• Overall, it is important who you learn from. 

Universities with good doctoral programs offer plenty of student resources. Take enough time to review the study resources provided by your preferred university. Suppose you are planning to do a PhD in management online program. In that case, you must check the resource materials, downloaded books, video materials, and more to help you write your research work.

Apart from this, you have to look for support for career planning. Also, check if the university has an alumni network and if the career centre is always open to connecting with them. Also, make sure these resources are easily accessible.

Define if fellowship opportunities are available

Not all universities provide fellowship programs. However, knowing what fellowship programs they offer would be valuable information in your decision-making process. You will have to look for all the different fellowships offered and learn what types of research topics PhD scholars are working on.

There is always a need for flexible timing to do a PhD in management. You may currently hold a full-time job and maybe have any other unavoidable commitments. However, online education plays a significant role in achieving your goal and pursuing a doctoral program. 

With blended learning in place, you can easily earn an online PhD after an MBA in management or a professional doctoral degree. Online learning platforms allow you to attend guided sessions and sometimes even dissertation programs that help you complete the course more efficiently in your comfort.

Finding the right doctoral program can definitely change your life. Thanks to online learning, not only finding a program but also completing it has become easier than ever before. Texila American University, in association with the University of Central Nicaragua (TAU-UCN), is an accredited institution offering a variety of doctoral programs online.

TAU-UCN’s doctoral fellowship program for the PhD in Management program allows new doctoral students to gain further vision into their field of concern, develop their training and research experience, and position themselves for future career success.

You can pursue a PhD in Management after completing your MBA by either joining a traditional doctoral program or opting for an online doctorate degree in management.

Benefits include gaining a competitive edge, enhancing problem-solving skills, refining expertise, evolving as a scholar-practitioner, and potentially higher salary.

Prioritize accreditation, research faculty, review student support, inquire about fellowships, and ensure flexible learning formats.

Enhances career by providing advanced knowledge, leadership opportunities, academic contributions, and making a meaningful difference.

Yes, accredited online programs offer reputable degrees with rigorous curriculum and faculty expertise, respected in the field.

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Phd after mba.

PhD Courses after MBA offer an opportunity to specialise and research in a particular topic and to pursue a career in academia and research as well as in corporates. While there are only a handful of students who take up this route, it is highly rewarding both in terms of remuneration and designation. Further, owing to the research-oriented expertise in particular fields, PhD holders are also offered positions in various research organisations, think tanks, government departments [in policy making], etc. In this article, we shall present and elaborate in brief, the several PhD courses after MBA available for candidates.

PhD after MBA: Key Points

The following table lists the key fundamental points related to the PhD Course for MBA .

• PhD Programs for MBA Graduates are undertaken under a supervisor/professor who belongs to the same field and holds expertise in the area the student wishes to pursue his/her PhD.
• Typically, PhD Courses For MBA Students takes anywhere between 3-6 years to be completed, it may extend beyond that as well.
• The structure of PhD Courses For MBA Students consists of rigorous coursework in the first 2 years, after which the candidate focuses on preparation of his thesis and dissertation. In the earlier stage, the candidate also performs literature review, research and analysis, etc.
• During the latter phase, he may be required to perform field work, laboratory experiments, case studies, surveys, etc.
• Throughout PhD Programs for MBA Graduates, the candidate may have gain expertise over research methodologies, statistical and mathematical tools, probability, software, etc.

Benefits of PhD after MBA

There are significant benefits of PhD after an MBA provides you not least a pedestal for a fruitful career in research, academics and further in policy-making, administration and corporate sector.

• An Environment of Pursuing Research: In a PhD Course for MBA Students, you will take up certain topics from management, finance, operations, business analytics, communication, etc. Them, with the help of tools and resources and under guidance from a supervisor, you aim to research and come up with some new insights and explanations. You will be able to take advantage of state-of-the-art research facilities and resources.
• A Settled Career Academics: PhD scholars after completing their degrees are hired as research associates, research assistants and professors and move onto research-oriented jobs such as research assistants, research associates, professors, post-doctorates, etc., after completing their PhD giving them a solid backing in the academic field. Many take up professorships after 5-10 years in the industry as consultants, advisors, head of various bodies.
• International Collaboration: Institutions and Organisations regularly work together with other accomplished researchers and organisations through research programs, short courses, workshops, conferences, exchange programs, research internships, assistantships, etc. and provide research output as well as build a global network. Moreover, you will get a chance to learn from your peers and travel extensively as well during PhD Courses For MBA students.
• Financially Rewarding: One of the major Benefits of PhD After MBA is that research programs reward research scholars handsomely through fellowships, scholarships, etc. In India, the JRF and Maulana Azad Fellowships are two popular ones. Moreover, project-based funding is also widely available
• Corporate Sector is Always Open: After completing PhD Programs for MBA , candidates have developed a high degree of research and academic insight which is always in high demand in  companies to work out plans and policies. This includes scaling up of a business, situational decision making, problem-solving, critical analysis, awareness of the newest trends, etc. These positions are in constant touch with top-level management and have a strong hand in the realisation of the company’s goals and objectives.
• Significant Requirement in Policy Making: PhD Courses after MBA prepare scholars for policy-making jobs at policy-making bodies of the government and other think tanks. They are invite and collaborate with PhD scholars to provide in-depth analysis and insights in policy-making issues. This can be related to anything from understanding the loopholes in the stock market to making the real estate industry more transparent.

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There are many different types of PhD programs you can choose to pursue after completing your MBA . Depending on your MBA specialization, you may want to consider a PhD in business, economics, or even a related field such as sociology or psychology. No matter what field you choose, a PhD will give you the opportunity to conduct research at the highest level, teach at the collegiate level, and consult with businesses and organizations. Let’s dive into various PhD course options post the following MBA specializations:

PhD Courses after MBA HR

Phd courses after mba finance, phd courses after mba marketing.

PhD Courses after MBA Operations

PhD after MBA in Canada

• Course Offerings of PhD courses after MBA HR:

• PhD courses after MBA HR are usually offered in labour relations, industrial relations, employee satisfaction, turnover and retention, training and development, leave policy, minimum wages policies, promotion and transfer , etc. Other broader topics include organisational behaviour, decision making , etc.
• Course offerings of PhD courses after MBA Finance:

• PhD courses after MBA Finance dives deep mechanics of the finance field concerning themes such as risk management, insurance, stock markets, regulatory practices, international markets, trends in financial markets of countries, different financial instruments , etc.
• Career options of PhD after MBA Finance include positions on Financial Advisory Boards, Financial analyst, academia and research organisations, think tanks, consultancies, public accounting firms, amongst others.
• The curriculum of a Finance PhD course for MBA students involves a good blend of theoretical knowledge and practical implementation through case studies, research projects, etc.
• PhD Subjects after MBA in Finance: Here are a few PhD Subjects after MBA in Finance you must take note of-

Note: These PhD Subjects after MBA in Finance must be taken as an example only. Actual subjects may vary depending on your course.

• Course Offerings of PhD courses after MBA Marketing:

• PhD courses after MBA Marketing involves research into the subject of marketing, that is, digital marketing, market research, business analytics, feasibility and viability marketing tools and resources, advertising, marketing campaigns, customer relationship management, grievance redressal, case studies , etc.
• In addition to academic and research positions like professorships and assistantships, PhD scholars also move into organisations on executive roles to oversee marketing, advertising departments.

PhD After MBA in Operations

• Course Offerings of PhD after MBA in Operations:

• In PhD After MBA in Operations, you will tackle topics such as logistics, quality and inventory management, project execution and control, measurement and evaluation, consumer behaviour, trends in operations management, global operations, case studies , etc.
• Operations PhD Programs for MBA Graduates open up gates towards progressing towards the top level of management ladder in the corporate sector as well academic research in various universities, governmental arms and research organisations.
• Further, there are various positions of advisors and consultants who are regularly in touch with governments for inputs on various issues.
• One of the most popular study abroad destinations in the world, PhD after MBA in Canada offers industry-leading research facilities and resources.
• Home to top institutions in the world, it provides greater opportunities for collaboration and cooperation for PhD after MBA in Canada.
• Canada’s university ecosystem is a major driver of research output in the country, second only to the private sector.
• Here are a few of the highly appreciated courses of PhD after MBA in Canada you must take a look at.

How costly is it to study for a PhD after MBA in Canada?

The Tuition fees of various universities vary according to the location, course objectives and other factors. Typically, the tuition fees for international students is higher than that of domestic students.

The University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management charges the same for international as well as domestic students for its PhD program

The University of British Columbia, in comparison, charges USD $5,760 annual for its PhD program. Similarly, PhD tuition fee at the University of Manitoba is USD $7,700 per year.

Scholarships for PhD Courses after MBA in Canada

Although tuition fees are high for PhD Programs for MBA in Canada, there are many available scholarship/fellowships/grants options that help in reducing the cost of living considerably. Take a look at the official websites for authentic funding opportunities. Some popular ones are:

• The University of British Columbia Four Year Doctoral Fellowship
• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
• The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship

PhD courses after MBA Abroad: Eligibility

To apply for a PhD after MBA at foreign universities, you must follow certain fundamental guidelines, a few key ones have been enumerated in the given pointers. The below-mentioned guidelines may change as per the university, location, course structure and objectives.

• Equivalent postgraduate degree in any relevant discipline, for instance, a Master’s in Business Administration in Marketing’ if you wish to pursue a PhD in Marketing. A relevant master’s degree is a string recommendation.
• Minimum scores in qualifying postgraduate degree. Typically it follows a 10 pointer scale or 4 pointer scale.
• GRE/GMAT test scores, if required. For a management-oriented course application, GMAT is highly recommended though GRE is also extensively recognized at many universities.
• IELTS/TOEFL/PTE exam scores as confirmation of proficiency in the English Language. Obtaining an over 7+ band score is normally sufficient to be considered.

PhD Courses after MBA Abroad: Application Process

The primary admission cycle customarily begins in September/October and ends in February/March of the subsequent year. This is carried in phases of Early, Regular and Late Admission Rounds . If you are interested in a scholarship, apply in the early phase. There is other admissions cycles as well.

• Narrow down your options according to the supervisor, university and career objectives. Pick three top level, three medium level and two low level [for backup] universities.
• Satisfy the eligibility prerequisites as mentioned in the university guidelines [Supervisor Recommendation, Equivalent qualifying degree, relevant industry experience, etc.]
• Research Proposal/Statement: This outlines the area and topic of research you want to pursue along with the names of the professors you wish to work under the guidance of. It is important that you select such professors after going through their work and whether they belong to your area of specialisation.
• Submit GMAT/ GRE test scores together with IELTS/TOEFL/PTE scores [as required].
• Application Set [Passport, Curriculum Vitae/Resume, Statement of Purpose/ Personal Statement/Statement of Intent, Writing Sample, Two/Three Letters of Recommendation, College Transcripts, Experience Letter (if required), Financial Support Statement/Funding Essay (if applying for scholarships/funding), etc.].
• Letters of Recommendation must be from your professors, supervisors, etc. who attest to your skills, research intent and suitability towards the sought PhD program.
• Pay Application Fee.
• Next, you may be called for a Personal Interview/Group Discussion/Writing Task [if required]
• After review, the application will be confirmed, waitlisted or rejected usually within 2-3 months of applying.
• Pay the required Tuition Fees or Blocking Fees.
• Submit Student Permit Application.

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Doing a Ph.D. After MBA | Eligibility Criteria, Career Scope, Employment And Salary

Doing A Ph.D. After MBA: The ‘road less taken’ can be simply called for Ph.D. after MBA. Not many people is seen to pursue a Ph.D. in Commerce; as it is a field that does not attract and relatively unknown many pursuers.

In the academic field, Ph.D. after MBA is more useful than a professional one. initially; The ROI and opportunity cost for this course are also not up to par, however, by saying that, it does not mean that the course is not worth it or useless. If a Ph.D. is done right then it can be quite rewarding.

Ph.D. after MBA or Management

• Ph.D. Course Duration after MBA

Eligibility Criteria for Ph.D. After MBA

Can one do a ph.d. after mba, after mba available top ph.d. courses, how to do a ph.d. after mba, ph.d. after mba in india, can i actually do a ph.d. after distance mba, ph.d. after mba – in distance education.

• Ph.D. After MBA Abroad – Entrance Exams & Admission Process
• Top-Most Abroad Universities for Pursuing PhD after MBA
• Best Countries to Study PhD after MBA Abroad
• Ph.D. After MBA in USA

Ph.D. After MBA in Australia

Ph.d. after mba in germany, ph.d. after mba finance.

• Scope Of Ph.D. after MBA in Finance

Ph.D. in Management

• Career Scope, Employment, and Salary for Doing a Ph.D. after MBA
• FAQ’s on Doing A Ph.D. after MBA

As one may expect it to be, Ph.D. after MBA may not be as advantageous. After getting done with an MBA, rather than pursue a Ph.D., many prefer to increase their work experience, but if you are interested in doing research in the field of your interest, a Ph.D. may be the perfect course for a person to take up.

Ph.D. researchers or individuals also get a chance to do individual research and study, apart from the extensive knowledge which the course provides, which puts them quite apart from other managers.

• The course requires a lot of dedication and rigorous hard work in Ph.D.
• A lot of time needs to be invested by someone with a Ph.D., which can be tedious.
• The Ph.D. course combines practical application with theoretical knowledge.
• There are many practical methods and approaches like field studies, econometrics, experimental methods, etc., which are mostly used during Ph. D.s.
• For those who want to teach Management, Ph.D. is for them.
• The profession of the Professor is most sought after and reputable.
• Ph.D. researchers also work as consultants in top firms.
• Ph.D. increases their analytical skills and trains researchers.
• Because of their skillset, positions in analytics are offered commonly to Ph.D. researchers.
• One may not quite earn much before getting tenure, and the growth is considerably slow.

Do Refer: Career Objective for MBA

Ph.D. Course Duration After MBA

Depending on the research topic, methodologies, and time and labor investment, the duration for Ph.D. after MBA may vary.

On average, it may take 4 to 5 years for the completion of a Ph.D.. Depending on the country and institution, the duration may also vary.

Country Duration (Average)

• India –  3 years
• USA – 5-7 years
• UK – 3-4 years
• Australia – 4-6 years
• Germany – 3-5 Years

Eligibility Criteria for a Ph.D. after an MBA must be an MBA degree, as one may assume. But that’s not so.

There are many other criteria for eligibility, as well. To pursue a Ph.D. after MBA, one must fulfill being eligible for a Ph.D. after MBA, and the following are the criteria.

• One must have an acceptable TOEFL or IELTS exam score to prove their proficiency in the English language.
• One must also have a respectable, which may vary as per the university of GRE/GMAT score.
• Students must also submit their essays, transcript and SOP.
• Letters of Recommendation are required. At least 2 to 3 times to be submitted by the aspiring student.
• Oftentimes, an interview is conducted either online via video call or physically to test student’s eligibility and knowledge.
• Students must have a thesis statement or an idea and a dissertation ready.
• It is crucial that the students are well versed to have a clear idea and what they want to do about their objectives.
• The acceptance rate at top-rated Business Schools is around 3 to 5%.

Yes, one actually can do a Ph.D. after MBA. There are various business schools worldwide that offer Ph.D. programs after an MBA, which can be pursued.

For the MBA itself, some years of work experience is required by many schools. The Student may already have the direction they want to take in their life by choosing to pursue an MBA.

A Ph.D. after an MBA is not quite a popular choice, but many students still decide to pursue the research either for better opportunities or out of interest. To pursue a Ph.D., the criteria for eligibility include more than 50% or more marks in your post-graduation, and students are also required to take up an entrance exam. The field of Ph.D. is open for the Student or for anyone who has done an MBA.

A student may choose from several Ph.D. courses after MBA. Due to its vast scope, there is no dearth of specialization in the field of management.

As the Ph.D. in Management is an unexplored field, each research in each area is equally important.

There are several available courses one may take, like:

• Entrepreneurship
• Human Resource Management
• Commercial Law
• Operational Research
• Healthcare and Management
• Organizational Behaviour
• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Political Science

For students who actually want to do a Ph.D. after their MBA is done, there are many options. It is important that for the duration of 2 years, the MBA course the candidate has done.

The students must choose their work and field of interest in that direction and also most important.

Students always have the choice to pursue a Ph.D. in abroad or India. The application process for both remains more or less the same. To do a Ph.D. after an MBA abroad, one has to additionally give language proficiency exams like IELTS or TOEFL and exams like GMAT or GRE.

For India, exams like CAT are applicable.

• One must have a good score in their CAT exam and a two-year MBA degree.
• For admission in their Ph.D. courses, GATE or even UGC NET may be required at some top IIMs.
• A Ph.D. may actually vary from 3 to 5 years on average, and it is important to note that the duration.
• In the first year of Ph.D., the candidates are trained in research methodologies and subjects, etc. and are mostly dedicated to the coursework.
• In the second year, one may choose the area in which they will be conduction research and their specialization.
• It is often advisable that students actually choose the area for research in which they have specialized during their MBA. It is, however, not quite compulsory.
• A Ph.D. thesis is the most essential part of any Ph.D., and during their second year only, it is important that students start developing it.
• In the third year, after they have researched and collected data, a student is asked to present their thesis statement.
• After the first six months of the third year, students are free to write their research papers and Ph.D. and do their research.
• The whole process can be quite time-consuming, but the only trick here is to be very resilient.
• Yes, you can obviously do a Ph.D. after a distance MBA.
• The institute must be recognized by the UGC.
• Universities are not allowed to differentiate between the degrees.
• The degree earned and mentioned in the eligibility criteria must be in tandem.
• As the process for regular courses, the application process is as same.
• Candidates must submit their essays, SOPs, mark sheets, documents, etc., like any other regular candidate.
• Mostly on entrance exams and interviews, the admission in a Ph.D. program is based.
• Over the ones who did pursue their degrees via distance education mode, Some institutes may prefer regular students.
•  The decision is solely based on the discretion of the university to select a candidate or not.

In Distance Education, one can definitely do a Ph.D. after MBA, but few things actually need to be taken into consideration.

It is important and mandatory that the institution from where the candidate has pursued their MBA in Distance education form is recognized by any other supreme commission as relevant to the country or by the UGC.

Also, for the Ph.D. program, one is applying to, the degree must match the eligibility criteria as well.

Ph.D. After MBA Abroad – Entrance Exams & Admission Process:

If you are actually planning to pursue a Ph.D. after an MBA, especially from abroad, then the following points will help and guide you through the application process and entrance exams:

• For global universities, the application process is very different from the universities of India. You actually don’t have to give any entrance exam to pursue a Ph.D. after an MBA from abroad; rather, the GMAT / GRE score is needed to submit.
• Previous project and research work matter, LORs, SOPs, and a lot when you are actually looking to pursue a Ph.D. abroad. They increase the chances of getting selected by making your profile strong.
• For Ph.D. programs, most of the universities have a 3-5% acceptance rate. Thus, it is vital to make your application strong; get in touch with experts if you need any help regarding the same.
• You need to work on your specific thesis, submit it in the provided duration as the curriculum more or less remains the same in Ph.D., and complete your Ph.D. after MBA.

Top-Most Abroad Universities for Pursuing Ph.D. after MBA

For better assistance at the time of your research on Ph.D. Courses after completion of MBA, we have enlisted some of the significant academic universities that are globally famous for their advanced specialized courses on Ph.D. after MBA:

Best Countries to Study Ph.D. after MBA Abroad

Most of the popular abroad destinations for Ph.D. studies are UK, USA, Australia, Germany, and Canada. These countries are notable for their research doctoral courses so choosing the best country to study Ph.D. is a crucial decision. So, decide carefully by doing deeper research about the course and universities in all countries. Let’s have a glance at the top countries to study Ph.D. after MBA and their popular research universities below for some idea:

Ph.D. After MBA in the USA

Ph.D. after MBA in the USA is the most popular place; because of a highly research-friendly environment, it especially is a great place to pursue a Ph.D. after an MBA.

The USA offers students unlimited data and resources to facilitate their research as it is home to the top business schools. The amenities are quite good here, which are provided to Ph.D. researchers.

• University of Pennsylvania
• Harvard University
• Stanford University
• The University of California
• Columbia University
• Kellogg School of Management
• The University of Chicago
• Washington University
• Cornell University
• University of Michigan

Ph.D. after MBA in Australia is also home to many great universities, and it is a very pleasant place to be at.

Ph.D. programs after MBA are offered by many great B-schools present. For applying practical methods, there is a lot of scopes and here because of the way corporates and businesses are run here.

Students will be provided with quite a lot of opportunities to collect primary as well as secondary data and conduct researches.

• Australian National University
• UNSW Sydney
• University of Western Australia
• University of Sydney
• University of Melbourne
• University of Queensland
• Monash University
• University of Adelaide
• Queensland University of Technology
• University of Canberra

Probably the best place to pursue a Ph.D. after an MBA in Germany because of the varieties of facilities like the grant which are made available for students studying.

Germany has the best management programs and boasts of some of the best universities in the world as well. Many universities in Germany offer great guidance to students to help them in their research work and Ph.D. in management.

• University of Berlin
• University of Hamburg
• Technical University of Munich
• Heidelberg University
• Humboldt University of Berlin
• Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
• RWTH Aachen University
• University of Freiburg
• Bielefeld University

One of the topmost and popular specializations is a Ph.D. after MBA in Finance. The scope is vast, and the opportunities are quite endless.

Though the subject for those interested may seem challenging, it has a plethora of research ideas and opportunities.

Expertise in subjects like Mathematics and Economics is required by Ph.D. in Finance.

The top universities which are offering this program are:

• Indian Institute of Foreign Trade
• Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies
• The Centurion University of Technology and Management
• Birla Institute of Technology and Science
• Indian Institute of Management, Ranchi
• Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT)

Scope Of Ph.D. After MBA in Finance

Opportunities after opportunities are present in Ph.D. after MBA in Finance. There is a wide and deep scope of opportunities, and many companies to hire because of their skill and both practical and theoretical knowledge do look out for such candidates. Top companies seek to recruit candidates who have completed their  Ph.D. in Finance and  like the ones mentioned below .

• TATA Consultancy
• Genpact Technologies Ltd

One of the highest degrees of academic awarded in the study of management is a Ph.D. in management. For those seeking teaching careers and academic research as professors or faculty in the field of management at business schools worldwide, a Ph.D. in Management degree was designed.

Following are some Benefits of PhD after MBA

• Helps you become a better thinker:  More than just consume what has been taught in the classes, a good Ph.D. in Management program encourages you to do more – it teaches you to become a good thinker and create more. One will achieve newer levels of critical thinking by moving past passive learning, which you can apply in new ways in your field of interest as well as your career.
• To gain an edge:  A Ph.D. in Management is essential and immediately marketable, especially in today’s workforce, provide an asset that will give you a competitive advantage. A Ph.D. in Management proves the expertise in your field of study; you have an impressive level of credibility and a lifelong commitment to learning which will help you fulfill your professional goals.
• Become a competitive scholar-practitioner:  A Ph.D. in Management will give you the confidence and knowledge but present at them instead of just attending academic conferences. You’ll discover your write a dissertation, may find yourself authoring peer-reviewed articles published in your field’s leading journals, and may have a scholarly voice.
• Skills enhancement:  A Ph.D. in Management can actually help you enhance valuable skills and gain that are universally applicable to any kind of field. They are empowering you to make more of an impact in your current role by giving you expertise outside of your organization by the degree, which in turn helps people around you as well. You may find colleagues turning to you for guidance, Once you begin your studies.

Career Scope, Employment, and Salary for Doing a Ph.D. After MBA

Somewhere between 8 Lakhs to 18 Lakhs per annum, Ph.D. after MBA salary in India is depending upon whether you explore the academic domain working as a lecturer or academician or working in a corporate sector.

For graduates with a Ph.D. in Commerce-related specializations and Management below, we have elucidated upon the major employment sector:

• Teaching: A Ph.D.’s most popular career path post is that of becoming a professor or teacher. Most Ph. D.s in management or business pursue it in the first place to pursue a career in particular academics. Further, to hire Ph.D.’s like business school professors, most of the research universities prefer. Suppose you aim to become a part of Ivy League schools or other prestigious academic institutions because of this striking combination coupled with a few years of professional experience. In that case, you should definitely go for a Ph.D. degree after MBA. It can make you an ideal candidate for the position of lecturer or university professor at a business school. Nearly 75% of business ‘Ph.D. after MBA’ graduates at business schools become faculty members, to give a rough statistical description, and roughly 25% take jobs in the industry.
• Research: A Ph.D. involves extensive analysis and is quite a data-driven degree and in-depth assessment as it constitutes various submissions of a multiple research thesis as its incremental element. If you have planned to pursue a career in research, but combining it with a Ph.D. might give you the knowledge and expertise of both the research world as well as corporate, and an MBA is more of a route of professional to take. You can further enter various research sectors with a versatile skill set by getting the taste of both these areas, which will prove extremely useful in carrying out path-breaking contributions and case studies with the potential of bringing a newer light to the commercial industry.
• Corporate Sector: As a common myth, you might be told that in the professional world, a doctorate degree is of no use, but it is quite the opposite as a Ph.D. after an MBA can furnish you with the outstanding business acumen to fit the role of business consultants and analysts. As many of the doctoral scholars move further to become professors or researchers, only a small proportion of them head towards the industry. As this degree provides aspirants with the understanding of employing Ph.D. s derive wisdom from their theoretical and unique methodologies for analysis, which, when combined with the pragmatic training obtained during MBA, marks for a marvelous body of knowledge. You can explore varied prospects in entrepreneurship ventures as well as companies like SEC, JP Morgan Chase, McKinsey, and Morgan Stanley, which are known to hire Ph. D.s frequently.

FAQ’s on Doing A Ph.D. After MBA

Question 1. What Ph.D. should I get after my MBA?

Answer: For students who want to do a Ph.D. after their MBA is done, there are many options. The MBA course the candidate has done must be for the duration of 2 years, and it is important. The most common career path after that is chosen is teaching.

Question 2. Is an MBA higher than a Ph.D.?

Answer: Compared to a Ph.D. that takes 4-6 years, you can complete your MBA in 1- 2 years. It allows them to start their career far sooner for the student, so the MBA is considered advantageous.

Question 3. Can I do a Ph.D. while working?

Answer: Yes, you can do a Ph.D. while working, but this can only happen if you are keen to work. Working full time and doing a Ph.D. is not easy; you won’t make progress without constant effort.

Question 4. Can I do a Ph.D. at 40?

Answer: Yes, you can do a Ph.D. at the age of 40; most of the person who does this are mostly in the education sector. The only problem that comes up is that not all programs will be open for you.

PhD after MBA

Hi Uotians, I was not that excited about exploring PhD domain before I had a realtime conversation with the one who is already pursuing from IIM Kozhikode. There are tons of opportunities available once you pursue a PhD after MBA. Let’s explore more about Why PhD after MBA, Eligibility Criteria and Career Scope.

The following information is pertaining to the PhD after an MBA from India – specifically to IIMs. We will add more information about PhD after MBA from Abroad as well.

Why do a PhD after MBA?

After successful completion, the PhD program can open tons of opportunities in domains like academics, corporate, research, consulting, etc.

The jobs roles available are Management Consultant, Business Professor, Policy Analyst, etc.

Eligibility Criteria for a PhD after MBA

The scores of CAT 2018, CAT 2019 and CAT 2020 are considered valid for application to the PhD. Program in 2021.

Standard Test Score not required if an applicant is:

• PGP Alumni of any IIM
• PGPX/PGP-PMP Alumni of any IIM where such courses are offered

(Part-time/Distance Learning programs of IIM are not taken into consideration)

How to do a PhD after MBA?

• The candidate must fit into Eligibility criteria as discussed
• The candidate is required to take the CAT exam. The NRIs and foreign students can apply through GMAT.
• The following table will help you understand the exams accepted instead of CAT

Stipend for PhD after MBA

• The stipend for IIMs varies in the range of Rs. 30,000
• The is an additional amount entitled that covers expenses of attending international conference or workshops, etc.

*We will be adding more information to this article, please post your questions in the comment section.

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Ph.D After MBA in India: Courses List, Eligibility, Duration, Career Scope

Mar 4, 2024

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Ph.D. after MBA in India attracts numerous students every year. Find more information about eligibility, courses list, duration, career scope, and much more.

Ph.D. after MBA is a diversified course with various insights shared with the aspirants. The article below throws light upon various questions students would want to understand, right from Can I Do Ph.D. After MBA, to different Ph.D. courses in India and their criteria. The scope for the Ph.D. after MBA is very vivid and broader and helps in developing different skills as well.

• What kind of specializations are available in Ph.D. after MBA
• Ph.D. course duration after MBA
• How to do a Ph.D. after MBA
• Requirements for applying through Ph.D

Ph.D. After MBA in Distance Education

Benefits of ph.d. after mba.

• Why Ph.D. After MBA is better option

Career Scope and Employment Sectors

Top colleges for ph.d. after mba, what kind of specializations are available in ph.d. after mba.

There are many specializations offered in Ph.D.which carry along with them great benefits. So check out the most preferred and most popular disciplines offered in Ph.D.:

• Ph.D. in Commerce
• Ph.D. in Computer Science
• Ph.D. in Economics
• Ph.D. in English
• Ph.D. in Human Resource Management
• Ph.D. in Philosophy
• Ph.D. in Psychology

Other common Ph.D. Specializations after MBA

• Ph.D. in Accounting
• Ph.D. in Business Economics
• Ph.D. in Chemistry
• Ph.D. in Commercial Law
• Ph.D. in Education
• Ph.D. in Engineering
• Ph.D. in Entrepreneurship
• Ph.D. in Finance
• Ph.D. in Healthcare and Management
• Ph.D. in IT
• Ph.D. in Marketing
• Ph.D. in Operations
• Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior
• Ph.D. in Political Science
• Ph.D. in Statistics

Ph.D. Course Duration after MBA

The duration of the Ph.D. course duration after an MBA varies from the research topics, methodologies, institutions chosen or the time being invested by aspirants. Most of the time, the course duration also depends on the kind of country students have chosen. On average the completion of Ph.D. courses takes about 4-5 years.

How to do a Ph.D. after MBA?

A Ph.D. after MBA is a career option that is dynamic and vast. The scope for the same is as well increasing. Ph.D. after MBA can be pursued after the completion of an MBA from a recognized university with a duration of two years. Aspirants need to choose their field of research and interest. There are various entrance exams that the aspirants need to take such as CAT, UGC NET and so on.

Requirements for applying through  Ph.D.

Though the specific prerequisites might vary from one university to another, there are some general criteria for a Ph.D. after MBA or any other postgraduate program that every candidate needs to fulfill. The primary requirement is that of a master's degree in the related discipline from a recognized institution in which one is applying for a doctoral degree; if you are using for a Ph.D. in Business Administration, you need to have completed a postgraduate course like, MBA, MIM, among others. Along with these, you will be required to submit the following documents.

• English proficiency test scores, such as IELTS, TOEFL, etc.
• SOP and LORs
• GRE or GMAT scores
• An Updated Resume or CV
• Academic Transcripts

Many students start their work career after the completion of an MBA and so opting for Ph.D. after MBA in Distance Education is easier. There are various criteria institutes consider before admission. It is very important aspirants have completed their MBA from a recognized University(UGC). It's also necessary that the eligibility criteria be met depending on the institution chosen by the aspirants.

Before delving into the specifics of each Ph.D. after MBA program, we'll look at the benefits of a Ph.D. after MBA and why a Ph.D. after MBA is such a great career option.

• Ph.D. after MBA allows you to conduct research and in-depth study of concepts and specializations that you would not have been able to do during your MBA.
• MBA degrees provide lucrative career opportunities on their own, but after obtaining a Ph.D., MBA degrees become much more valuable.
• The research conducted during a Ph.D. after an MBA raises awareness of new business insights and trends around the world, allowing for more efficient business management.
• A person with a Ph.D. after an MBA can earn a good living. A top MBA College professor earns far more than an MBA degree holder.
• Ph.D. after MBA allows aspirants to work in the field of research in management, finance, or business, distinguishing them from other managers who only pursue an MBA.

Why Ph.D. after MBA is Better Option?

A Ph.D. is a data-driven degree that involves extensive analysis and in-depth assessment as it consists of submitting a research thesis as it is the essential thing in the assessment element. If you have been planning to pursue a career in research, an MBA is more of a professional route to take but combining it with Ph.D. benefits you with the knowledge of both the corporate and research world.

What makes a Ph.D. after MBA the most popular option? The Doctorate of Philosophy program allows for in-depth knowledge in the specialization field. Research and the most importantly offers an opportunity to conduct independent study, which would otherwise only be limited to the more practical and commercially useful MBA degree. The research training provides an awareness of cutting-edge developments and evolving new insights and solving various problems. Doctoral graduates have years of experience in data analysis and data-driven decision-making; they are practiced with multiple research methodologies.

While most doctoral graduates find positions as faculty in reputable business schools, a fraction of them carry on in post-doctoral studies or head towards industry positions. 

Ph.D. after MBA can furnish you with the quintessential business understanding to fit the role of business consultants and analysts. 

As many doctoral scholars move further to become professors or researchers, only a small proportion of them head towards the industry. Listed below are some of the jobs that one can get after completing their Ph.D.:

• Scientific Writer 
• Assistant Professor
• Research Assistant
• Chief Research Manager 
• Senior Professor 
• Senior Consultant

Ph.D. has scope for working in diverse fields right from the automobile industry to the NGOs. The areas of recruitment are:

• Chemical and Pharmaceuticals Industry
• Oil and Gas Industry
• Research Industry

So as now you are aware of the Ph.D. program, make sure you choose the best specialization that suits that motivates you to push further even harder. Make no mistake in selecting the specialization, so read thoroughly through the article and choose the best.

Some of the top colleges for pursuing a Ph.D. after MBA are listed below:

• University of Calcutta
• Amity University
• Amrita University
• Delhi University
• Andhra University
• Aligarh Muslim University
• BITS Pilani
• Manipal Institute of Technology

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Home  >  News & Articles  >  PhD after MBA: In India, Admissions 2024, Entrance Exams, Fees

Sheeza Khan

Updated on 20th February, 2024 , 8 min read

PhD after MBA: In India, Admissions 2024, Entrance Exams, Fees

A PhD after an MBA is an advanced program where you can become a doctor in a specific area of business Finance, Marketing, Operations, or Human Resources. To qualify, you generally need a 2-year MBA degree and you should pass exams like  UGC-NET or   GATE . Having a good score, a research plan, recommendations, and work experience make it more likely to get into a top MBA college. It usually takes 3-5 years to finish a PhD after MBA in India, but it could be 4-7 years abroad.

Also read: Top PhD Entrance Exams in India 

In the realm of MBA dreams, institutions like  FMS New Delhi ,  BHU , the prestigious IIMs, and the ingenious IITs stand tall as the elite havens for pursuing a PhD after your MBA adventure. 

Further Reading: IIT Madras PhD Admission 2023

Venturing into the realm of a PhD after MBA opens doors to the realms of teaching and delving deep into the realms of research. Many of you might be wondering about the average salary package spanning from INR 2,00,000 to INR 14,00,000.

More PhD Courses: 

More about MBA: 

PhD After MBA: Course Details

Also read:  GATE Study Material

Why pursue PhD after MBA?

Pursuing a PhD after an MBA in India can offer several compelling benefits:

• Deep Expertise: A PhD allows you to specialize and delve deeply into a specific area of business, enhancing your expertise and knowledge in your chosen field.
• Research Opportunities : A PhD program provides you with the chance to contribute to cutting-edge research in business and management, potentially leading to valuable insights and innovations.
• Academic Career : If you aspire to an academic career, a PhD is often a requirement for becoming a professor at universities and business schools, allowing you to educate the next generation of business leaders.
• Career Advancement : A PhD can set you apart in the job market, opening doors to higher-level positions and leadership roles in both corporate and non-corporate sectors.
• Personal Fulfillmen t: Undertaking a PhD is a journey of personal growth and intellectual challenge, allowing you to engage deeply with your chosen subject matter and develop critical thinking skills.
• Networking : Doctoral programs provide opportunities to connect with experts in your field, fellow students, and professionals, expanding your professional network.
• Enhanced Problem-Solving: PhD programs often cultivate advanced problem-solving skills, which can be applied to complex business challenges.

Also Read:  Tips to prepare for UGC Net

More MBA Courses: 

Who should pursue PhD after MBA?

Eligibility criteria for pursuing a PhD after an MBA in India can vary depending on the specific university, institute, and program. However, there are general requirements that are commonly applicable:

• MBA Degree : Candidates must hold a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) degree from a recognized university or institute. This demonstrates a foundational understanding of business and management concepts.
• Minimum Marks: Many institutions require candidates to have obtained a certain minimum percentage or  grade point average (GPA) in their MBA program. This threshold can vary, but it's typically around 55% or equivalent.
• Relevant Subjects : The candidate's MBA specialization should align with the field of study they wish to pursue for their PhD for instance, if you want to pursue a PhD in Marketing, your MBA specialization should have been in Marketing.
• Entrance Exam: Some universities and institutes may require candidates to clear a relevant entrance examination specific to the PhD program they are interested in. This could involve subject-related questions, research aptitude, and general knowledge.
• Research Proposal: Applicants are often required to submit a research proposal outlining their intended area of research. This proposal should demonstrate a clear research question, objectives, methodology, and potential contribution to the field.
• Work Experience : While not always mandatory, having relevant work experience can be advantageous, especially for certain specialized PhD programs. It can demonstrate practical knowledge and a real-world perspective on the subject.
• Interview:  Some institutions may conduct interviews as part of the selection process. This is an opportunity for candidates to discuss their research interests and demonstrate their commitment to the program.
• Qualifying Examinations : In some cases, candidates might need to qualify for national-level exams such as  UGC-NET (University Grants Commission - National Eligibility Test) or  GATE  (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) to be eligible for certain PhD programs.

PhD after MBA: PhD Finance Course Details

PhD in Finance is a research-focused program offering strong academic prospects. Typically pursued after an MBA in Finance , it's available at esteemed institutions such as IIMs, FMS New Delhi , ISB , and IIT. The program delves into topics like Share Valuation, Privatization, Globalization, and Management Accounting.

Further Reading: MBA Finance Syllabus & Subjects 

PhD after MBA: PhD Marketing Course Details

PhD in Marketing is a 3-year program aimed at training students for teaching and research in marketing and related domains. Admission is based on entrance exams and interviews. Candidates with relevant postgraduate qualifications, including an MBA in Marketing, can apply. The program offers diverse career paths, like Market Research Analyst, Marketing Communications Leader, and Marketing Executive.

Further Reading: MBA in Marketing

PhD after MBA: PhD Organizational Behavior Course Details

PhD in Organizational Behavior is a 3 to 5-year program studying human behavior in organizations. Eligibility requires a master’s or MPhil degree with a 55% minimum aggregate after an MBA in Organizational Behavior. Graduates can secure positions in Academic Institutions, Colleges, Finance, Marketing, IT, etc., with average salaries ranging from INR 4,00,000 to INR 8,00,000.

PhD after MBA: PhD Business Management Course Details

PhD in Business Management is a 3-year program focusing on business operations like leadership, organization, and planning. Eligibility requires a master’s degree with relevant subjects and a minimum aggregate of 50% or more, post-MBA in Business Management.

PhD after MBA: PhD HR Management Course Details

PhD in Human Resource Management is a 3 to 5-year program focusing on teaching organizational processes for productivity enhancement. It prepares students for HR management roles, requiring a master’s degree from a UGC-recognized or foreign university post-MBA in HR Management. 

PhD after MBA: PhD Management Studies Course Details

PhD in Management Studies is a 3-year program imparting management and organizational skills. Eligibility requires a master's degree in a related field with 50-60% aggregate, post-MBA in Management Studies.

Further Reading: BMS Course Details 

PhD after MBA: PhD Banking and Finance Course Details

PhD in Banking and Finance is a 3-year program designed to provide comprehensive knowledge in domestic and international banking, economics, and investment. A master's degree from a recognized university is the minimum eligibility for PhD after MBA in Banking and Finance. Graduates can secure positions in educational institutions, stock exchanges, banks, etc., with average salaries ranging from INR 1,80,000 to INR 6,00,000.

Further Reading: MBA Finance Jobs 

PhD after MBA: PhD Disaster Management Course Details

PhD in Disaster Management is a 3-year program focused on Environment and Disaster Management. Eligibility entails a master’s degree or M.Phil in the relevant field with at least 55% aggregate and 5 years of work experience.

Also Read: PhD in IGNOU

PhD after MBA: PhD Commerce and Management Course Details

PhD in Commerce and Management is a 3-year program focusing on commerce and business management education. To qualify for PhD after MBA in Commerce and Management, candidates need a master's degree, MBA, or MPhil with at least 55% aggregate.

Further Reading: BMS Subjects & Syllabus

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can phd be done after mba.

Certainly, it is possible to pursue a PhD after completing an MBA. To embark on a PhD journey, an individual should possess a master's degree in relevant fields, accompanied by a minimum aggregate score of 50-60%.

What are the PhD courses after MBA?

PhD programs in Finance, Management Studies, Business Management, Business Administration, Banking and Finance, and Marketing stand out as prominent choices for further studies following an MBA.

Can I do a PhD from IIM?

Indeed, the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) provide PhD programs subsequent to MBA studies in disciplines such as Human Resource Management, Business Management, and Business Administration, among others.

Can I do a PhD after MBA in HR?

Indeed, undertaking a PhD following an MBA in Human Resource Management presents advantageous prospects for embarking on roles such as HR managers, executives, consultants, and various other related positions.

Does a PhD after MBA make sense?

Certainly, pursuing a PhD after completing an MBA is a strategically sound choice, offering distinct advantages in terms of enhanced job prospects and a strengthened position in the realm of teaching professions.

How many years is PhD after MBA?

PhD after MBA is normally for 4 - 6 years.

Deep Expertise, Research Opportunities, Academic Career, Personal Fulfillment and Networking.

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PhD Specialization: List, Admissions, Eligibility, after MBA, in India, Fees, Jobs, Salary

Satyam Purwar

Content Curator

PhD degree or also known as doctor of philosophy, is a 3-4 years of professional and academic degree. Candidates must have a master’s degree or MPhil Degree in the area they want to specialize.

PhD Specializations are available in various fields such as Science, Commerce, Humanities, Engineering and Technology, Law, Business Management, and so on. The average fees in India is INR 50,000-2,00,000. See more: PhD Admissions

PhD Course graduate can secure jobs such as University professor, Industrial R&D Lab professionals, Start-Up mentors, Authors,, Senior research scientist and others in areas such as Universities, Colleges, Science centers, Statistical units, Plant Breeding centers, Equipment manufacturers, Newsagency, Pharmaceutical industry, Publishers, Software development, etc. The average salary one can secure is INR 4-15 LPA.

PhD Specializations: Course Highlights

Top PhD Specializations in India

Phd humanities.

Phd in humanities is concerned with critically examining human thought and culture. The course deals with how art, music, literature, the arts, and philosophy affect the world we live in. Students pursuing a PhD focus more on abstract questions than on technical skills. 

The students would be taught in depth the development of ideas and concepts, the functioning of a society, behavioural patterns and the challenges faced, human interactions and relationships, etc. This degree teaches in depth about humanity and evolution of culture and historical events throughout the centuries. 

Admission Process

• Admissions will be done on the basis of merit list. The merit list marks will be calculated by adding the scores secured in the entrance examination, direct interview and marks obtained in qualifying examination. 

See more: PhD Humanities Colleges

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicant should have at least earned 55% marks and above in M.A. or any degree equivalent to Humanities (50% in the case of SC/ST candidates)
• Applicants who have completed their Master’s degree in any relevant stream either of Science/Commerce/Engineering/Technology or MPhil Degree with an aggregate of 60% marks and above can apply for admission.
• Clearing the entrance examination such as GATE, NET , MET , ICPR, ICSSR, CSIR, etc. is a prerequisite for admission.

PhD Science

PhD Science is a doctorate level course with a duration of 3 to 5 years , which students from MSc or MTech background can pursue. It involves candidates to research on any one of the Science specialisations like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, etc. 

The student will have to submit the research thesis at the end of the course to earn the PhD Science degree.

The admission process for PhD science is based on the entrance exam followed by an interview. 

• This admission process is followed by many colleges or universities.
• Some of the entrance exams are UGC-NET, CSIR-UGC-NET, GATE , etc

See more: PhD Science Colleges

Eligibility Criteria 

• The eligibility criteria for PhD in science is to score an aggregate score of minimum 55% at your postgraduate level. 

PhD Commerce

Ph.D in Commerce is a doctorate course with a duration of minimum two years. certain universities require the candidates to complete the course within five years of time along with the thesis or research paper. Certain universities provide part time in PhD in commerce. 

The PhD in Commerce subjects provides a greater insight in the field of commerce and accounting, finance, forecasting, management and budgeting. The course provides better quality education to the students, who can serve the needs of business and industry management. 

After completing the course, a candidate can find jobs in fields of business, marketing and education. The most popular job positions for such candidates are lecturer, Professor, CEO, etc.

• The admissions for PhD in commerce admissions are done mainly through entrance tests followed by a personal interview conducted by the respective university.
• National level entrance exams such as UGC NET / UGC CSIR NET / GATE / SLET or University entrance exam are conducted for admission to PhD courses.
• Reservations are applicable to SC / ST / EWS / OBC NCL / PwD candidates as per government rule. 
• The eligibility criteria for this course is, candidates must pursue a masters degree in commerce/ MBA / MPhil degree with an aggregate score of 55%. 

PhD Engineering and Technology

A PhD in engineering and technology often focuses on research based education. It may involve the development of new technology or the advancing of degree programs. It can also be a program that focuses on the student's own desired focus, such as on learning a very specific area of engineering or technology. 

Ph.D. in Engineering and Technology is a 5-year course. Candidates who wish to pursue a PhD in engineering and technology Must have a cleared masters degree in Computer Science as a subject or equivalent to this degree from a recognized University.

Admission to Ph.D. in Engineering and Technology is given on the basis of entrance exams conducted by various institutes. The entrance exam is followed by a personal interview round for final allotment of seats in any institute. For admission to the Ph.D. in Engineering and Technology department minimum requirements are:

• B.Tech/ M.Tech in any branch of Engineering/ BioTechnology and Interdisciplinary areas.
• B.Tech/M.Tech or equivalent degree in Engineering and Technology.

To pursue Ph.D. in Engineering and Technology course, the candidate should have a bachelor's degree in Engineering and Technology from a recognized university. 

PhD after MBA

PhD in Business Management is a doctorate level business management course. Business management includes the activities associated with running a company, such as controlling, leading, monitoring, organizing and planning. The duration of PhD in Business Management is 3-years. 

This course includes subjects like Banking, Accounting seminar, Global marketing seminar, Theory of finance, Advanced accounting theory, Advanced accounting theory, Seminar in banking, Strategic information systems etc. 

PhD After MBA: Admission Process

• Most of the colleges offer admission to this course on the basis of entrance examination and direct interviews. The admission process can vary from college to college and the minimum marks requirement in the post-graduation degree of the candidate can vary from college to college.

See more: PhD Business Management Colleges

PhD After MBA: Eligibility Criteria 

• The basic eligibility for this course is candidates must hold a postgraduate degree in a relevant subject with at least 50% marks in aggregate from a recognized university. The minimum marks required vary from college to college.
• Applicants should have a minimum experience of two years post their MBA or Master’s degree on the date of writing the admission test.

PhD in law gives the candidates to enhance their understanding of the legal studies. The students are rendered an overview of the subject, the nuances to proceed with the cases and also the tools to go about while studying a case, and the outlook required while looking into its details. 

Ph.D. in Law is a 3-year full-time doctorate programme in the field of Law. Ph.D. in law provides students with the required training which helps them pave their way in gaining exposure in their field. 

• Admission is done solely on the basis of Merit. 
• The eligibility criterion is passing Masters or M.Phil in legal studies or laws or equivalent examination with 55% aggregate from a recognized university. 
• They will have to pass the various state and national level examinations conducted for admission to the course

See more: PhD Law Colleges 

• Candidates should have qualified Master’s degree or M.Phil in legal studies or law in the relevant field with a minimum aggregate score of 55% and above from a recognized university.
• Candidates should pass the entrance examination conducted by various institutions and universities.
• They should have a minimum experience of 5 years as a professional in the field of teaching/ administration/ industry/ professional in senior level. 

Here are some more popular PhD programmes that candidates can pursue in different streams: 

PhD Specializations: Job Profiles

PhD Specializations: FAQs

Ques. Which phd specialisation pays the most?

Ans. In India, the candidates holding PhD in Science, Engineering, Technology, and Mathematics, are highly paid PhD holders.

Ques. How is PhD different from MPhil?

Ans. M.Phil is more focussed on masters in the specified field and already given thesis, whereas PhD allows one to produce the original thesis to support their work

Ques. Can I pursue a PhD after MBA?

Ans. Anyone with an MBA degree can pursue PhD. In fact, it's a good idea to do a PhD after MBA if you are interested in exploring the arena of academics or research and you can also pursue opportunities in consulting firms in the corporate sector.

Ques. Which PhD specialisation course is easy?

Ans. Education, humanities, and the social sciences are considered the easiest fields in which to pursue degrees. 

Ques. Can I do a PhD without a masters degree?

Ans. Yes, it's possible to get a PhD without first having a Masters degree. However, several students opt to bypass a Master's degree by enrolling into a doctoral programme as soon as they complete their undergraduate degree.

Ques. What is the full form of PhD?

Ans. PhD stands for Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor Philosophiae.

Ques. What is the average salary package for a PhD holder?

Ans. An average salary package of a PhD holder is up to INR 4-15 LPA.

Ques. What can be done after PhD?

Ans. PhD is the highest degree till now in Indian academia, so you can go for various types of researcher jobs. 

Ques. Is it possible to pursue 2 PhD degrees? 

Ans. Absolutely, people get multiple PhDs. Having multiple PhDs is uncommon, but people do to get multiple doctorates.

Ques. Can I do a PhD through distance education?

Ans. The UGC has issued a circular stating that the degrees granted through distance education for PhD programmes will no more be recognised.

Ph.D. : 43 answered questions

Ques. are master's degrees from ignou acceptable for admission into ph.d courses in top universities.

● Top Answer By Anumita Mukharjee on 28 Apr 22

Ques. Is a Phd from IGNOU worth it/valuable?

● Top Answer By Srabani Guha on 24 Jul 23

Ques. How is the Direct PhD program of IIT Madras?

● Top Answer By Arati Sinha on 29 Mar 23

Ques. What is the value of a Ph.D. degree from IIT Bombay?

● Top Answer By Karuna Nair on 13 Mar 23

Ques. Why do some students in IIT Bombay leave high-paying jobs and join grad schools for PhD?

● Top Answer By Advait Joshi on 23 Mar 23

Ques. What is the placement scenario after PhD in IIT Bombay?

● Top Answer By Advait Joshi on 17 Mar 23

Ques. Is a PhD from IGNOU valid?

● Top Answer By Pankaj Kumar on 18 Oct 22

Ques. What is the placement record of MSc applied statistics students of IIT Bombay?

● Top Answer By Poornima Sahoo on 18 Mar 23

Ques. How difficult is it to get a PhD from IISc Bangalore?

● Top Answer By Bidita Ghose on 14 Jul 23

Ques. Which would be better, IIT Delhi or an average US university for a PhD?

● Top Answer By Aditi Banerjee on 03 Apr 23

Ph.D. (Chemistry)

Ph.d. (physics), ph.d. (mathematics), ph.d. (biotechnology), ph.d. (zoology), ph.d. (psychology), ph.d. (business management), ph.d. (management studies), master of science [ms], ph.d. (computer science), ph.d. colleges in india.

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PhD Specialization: List, Admissions, Eligibility, after MBA, in India, Fees, Jobs, Salary Specializations in PhD After MBA

• May 13, 2024
• No Comments

In the rapidly growing world of career development and education people often look to intensify their academic qualifications and skills to stay in contact with their area of expertise. Pursuing a PhD after completing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) has emerged as a prominent selection for those seeking to enhance their skills, grow professionally, and for better income opportunities In India, where majorly all reputable and prestigious institutes and universities are located, it offers a hub of academic excellence in the academic region. It’s to dig deeper to understand all the crucial aspects of pursuing a PhD after an MBA in India which consists of various specializations, fees, eligibility criteria, admissions job prospects, and salary expectations. 

Table of Content

Various specializations in phd after mba, phd specialization: admissions process, job prospects and salary expectations, types of phd and their importance, tips and tricks for phd admission 2024 after mba.

There is various specialization that candidates can undertake to pursue PhD after Master of Business Administration are:  

• Management: Specializing in management studies through a PhD program provides a deep dive into advanced concepts like organizational behavior, strategic management, and leadership. This specialization prepares individuals for leadership roles in major areas like consulting, academics and corporate management. 
• Finance: A PhD in Finance focuses on advanced quantitative analysis, financial theory, and research methodologies. PhD can pursue a career in academic region, high-level financial analysis or financial research. 
• Marketing: The marketing specialization consists of advanced marketing strategies, market research and consumer behavior. PhD Graduates can pursue careers in advertising, marketing research, or various academic regions. 
• Human Resource Management: A PhD in HRM has its major key areas revolving around advanced organizational behavior, HRM theory, and human resource development. Graduates can also pursue careers in corporate HRM. HRM consulting, corporate HRM or various other Human resource fields. 
• Operations Management: MBA in Operations Management revolves around various advanced operations management concepts like, process optimization, supply chain management etc. Graduates can also pursue rewarding careers  in areas like logistics management, operations management, or other academic regions.

Eligibility Criteria

Admission to a PhD program after an MBA needs the student to possess a master’s degree in business administration in a relevant field from a reputable university or college. In fact, students are also needed to provide a strong academic record, a crisp and concise research proposal aligned with the selected specialization and some good years of work experience. The admission process also consists of a written entrance exam, further followed by an interview and/or presentation provided in the research proposal. 

Fees and Funding

The fees for a PhD course after an MBA differ based on the Research institution or university along with the and specialization taken into consideration. For acquiring the exact fee structure check the official website of the research institute or university. But to make the PhD course accessible for all, many universities offer grants, scholarships or assistantships to help procure expenses such as tuition fees, and basic living expenses for deserving aspirants. 

Duration of the Program

The duration of a PhD program after an MBA differs based on the specialization and the mode of education being selected by the aspirant. On an average, a full-time PhD course includes a time duration of generally 3 to 5 years to complete, while a part-time PhD course may take a longer duration and period of time due to the flexibility they offer to individuals like working professionals.

After fulfilling the PhD course successfully after the MBA course , there are some basic career prospects candidates can take for a good salary package. Some common job roles include: 

• Corporate Sector: Graduates can seek admission in roles including management trainees, enterprise analysts, and marketing executives in corporation businesses.   
• Entrepreneurship: Management calls for college students to equip the skills and know-how required to start their  very own organizational ventures.   
• Consultancy: Management professionals can emerge as experts, imparting professional solutions to groups on several control-associated problems.   
• Government Sector: Graduates can also locate opportunities in authorities’ corporations in roles that encompass administrative officers and control analysts.   
• Non-Profit Organizations: Management professionals are in demand of non-income agencies to manipulate their operations efficaciously. 

The salary expectancies for PhD Holders in management fields can range extensively relying on elements along with the character’s specialization, revel in, and the organization they work for. Also PhD Holders can anticipate to earn better salaries as compared to those with simplest MBA.

There are 2 distinctive types of PhD courses in India based on time duration : 

Full-Time PhD  

This PhD course has a typical framework of 3-6 years for completion and is completed as full time. Aspirants often take this course for higher education purposes,like assistant teacher etc. 

Part-Time PhD  

This course is taken by candidates who are working as working professionals or wish to pursue a PhD along with their usual work. Part- time PhD takes more time than a full-time PhD but aspirants need to take a few classes in order to pursue a part-time PhD.

H ere are some great tips and tricks for a successful PhD admission process after completion of a MBA program in 2024 : 

• Stay updated with crucial information 
• Practice and solve sample papers frequently 
• Prepare an exceptional Statement of Purpose 
• Seek guidance from previous alumni’s 
• Develop a study plan and revision plan 
• Prepare for interviews in the prior 
• Attend workshops and seminars related to your area of research

By following these tips and tricks you can enhance your chances of getting PhD admission quicker after MBA.

Pursuing a PhD after an MBA in India can be an enchanting and rewarding experience for people seeking to develop their careers in the field of management. With a diverse range of specializations to select from, along with a bunch of various awaiting  opportunities, India offers a favorable environment for those seeking to start on this intellectually growing  journey. So, whether you desire to become a sought-after consultant, reputable academician, or a visionary industry leader, a PhD after an MBA is the perfect course to undertake to pursue your PhD journey.

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Ph.D. After Online MBA [Distance, Part-Time] Possible?

Dec 11, 2023 2.9K Reads

Are you someone who is research-oriented & has a passion for academics? Well, a Ph.D. is surely the best option for you! It will help you explore all the details of your particular field & will make you a master in that. Moreover, your passion for research & innovation will be satisfied with the learnings of this doctorate program. So, what are you waiting for? Just go & grab the opportunity you have dreamt of! Wait a minute, are you questioning your eligibility for the same due to a PG degree in an online MBA? 

Well, this blog is going to be a perfect read for you. Let us clear your doubts by addressing all of the questions that have kept you waiting to join a PhD program for working professionals .

An Overview of Ph.D.

Doctor of Philosophy or Ph.D. or PhD is a doctorate-level education that requires a high level of dedication & focus. It is one of the most sought-after degrees among the candidates aspiring to become professors or lecturers at the university level. At most universities, the duration of this program ranges between 5 and 7 years. In some universities, this duration reduces to 3-5 years. Candidates who have completed their postgraduation program in any major are eligible to join this doctorate course.

The common entrance exams conducted in India for the PhD program include UGC NET, CSIR NET, GATE, & IIT JAM. To enroll in a reputed government-approved university for this program, you need to crack any one of these exams with the minimum cut-off marks. To get it from a foreign university, you need to clear the TOEFL & GRE/GMAT exams based on your selected country & course specialization.

After getting enrolled in the course, you need to carry out your course work in terms of research which will be submitted in the form of a thesis/dissertation towards the end of your program. Moreover, you need to clear the viva or the personal interview to get your PhD degree from the university. 

Is Your Online MBA Degree Eligible for a Ph.D. Program?

Online education has taken over the education industry in the past few years. Apart from its positive impact on the learner’s career, there are still a lot of myths associated with it. The number one on that list is that online degrees are less respected in the market & are not considered for higher education.

To settle this argument, we have this simple example of the fact that your online MBA degree does not make you any less eligible for a PhD program. The only thing that matters here is that your online degree must have been completed from a UGC-approved university. With valid documents including a mark sheet, degree, & provisional certificates of online MBA, you can apply for this doctorate-level program. 

Not only in India but international universities also entertain candidates for PhD admission who have completed their online MBA in any specialization.

Top Specializations of Ph.D. After Online MBA

After completing your online MBA program, you will be familiar with the specialization domains with a good future scope & the ones that favor your interests in the business industry. Some of the trending majors in the business field that are quite popular at the doctorate level are listed here. 

The admission process, eligibility criteria, & duration of these above-mentioned doctorate specializations are the same but differ in terms of fee package & curriculum.

Top Colleges for Ph.D. After an Online MBA in India

There is a range of authentic universities that offer doctoral courses even after an online MBA program. These universities not only help you achieve your professional goals but also provide you with global recognition in the business industry. Based on the entrance exams & specializations offered, you can choose your university for this program.

The admission process, fee package, eligibility criteria, curriculum, & duration of the doctorate programs in the business domain differ based on your choice of the university.

Trending Specializations in DBA/Ph.D. After Online MBA

Career Scope of Ph.D. After Online MBA

The most opted career after completing a PhD program even in the business domain is teaching. Nearly 80% of doctorate candidates choose teaching as their profession & the remaining 20% make their way to the corporate sectors.

The addition of a doctorate-level program to your resume will help you attain stability in your career in terms of finances & designation. The in-depth knowledge of research-oriented business strategies will make you an expert in the business industry. 

Your innovative approach to an organizational issue will help you stand out from the crowd of business professionals. Apart from the research field, here are a few top profiles that you can explore upon completion of your PhD after online MBA. 

The salary package offered to a PhD candidate in India is between 7 to 17 lakhs which varies with their skills & experience in the corporate or academic sector. This package applies to candidates who have completed their doctoral program after their MBA. 

Is There Any Easy Alternative for Regular Ph.D. After Online MBA?

Since we live in an era where digital transformation is at its peak & is creating an impact in almost every sector of the industry, how can we forget about the education industry? Starting from 12th grade to the doctorate program, every level of education is now being offered in flexible modes at authentic government-recognized universities & institutions. These modes include both hybrid & online formats. 

After completing an online MBA program, you can go for two modes of doctorate program, i.e., regular or online. For the regular one, you need to attempt & clear the entrance exams & give a full-time commitment for around 5 years. 

Online PhD courses are introduced by universities to make the higher level of education accessible to all. With a busy work schedule & growing financial needs, everyone can't take up a regular doctorate program & dedicate 3-5 years completely to it. Because of this major reason of time commitment, most of the aspirants step back from taking up this program. 

Thus, universities not only in India but in foreign countries as well are offering online & hybrid doctorate programs with a direct admission process without any tests or interviews. This way these programs become more feasible for working professionals. Moreover, the affordable cost & shorter duration (3 years) attract many individuals who have been planning on a PhD degree for a long time.

At international universities, a PhD in the business domain is referred to as the Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) which is the highest qualification in business administration. Upon completion of your online MBA, you can even apply for a DBA program at your chosen foreign university.

Top Trending Articles

Upon completion of your MBA program, you can either go for a job or a regular PhD program or pursue an online/hybrid PhD program along with your job. These choices are available to you even if you have acquired an online MBA from a government-approved university. Moreover, your online MBA degree makes you eligible for a DBA course offered by reputed international universities in regular/online/hybrid mode.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

⭐ what is the correct abbreviation for doctor of philosophy.

Doctor of Philosophy is one of the highest levels of education for many domains. It is denoted either by Ph.D. or PhD. Both the abbreviations are correct & accepted globally.

⭐ Is an online MBA valid for Ph.D. in India?

An online MBA completed from a government-approved university is valid for enrolling in any Ph.D. specialization at an authentic university.

⭐ What is the benefit of completing Ph.D. after online MBA?

A Ph.D. degree will help you gain research skills and methodologies that will help you excel in your career. It will help you make your way towards your dream career of becoming a professor.

⭐ Can I apply for a Human Resource Management specialization in Ph.D. after online MBA?

After fulfilling the specific eligibility requirements, you can apply for a Ph.D. in Human Resource Management at any university.

⭐ Which entrance exams are there to enroll in Ph.D. after online MBA?

For Indian Universities, you need to clear UGC NET/CSIR NET/GATE/IIT JAM but for Foreign Institutions you need to clear language tests like TOEFL or IELTS & subject tests of GRE or GMAT.

⭐ Which are the three top sectors that I can apply to upon completion of my Ph.D. after online MBA?

The three top sectors that actively recruit Ph.D. candidates are Teaching, Research, and Corporate.

⭐ Is DBA similar to Ph.D. after online MBA?

Ph.D. in management or business field equips you with a doctorate in business. DBA is Doctor of Business Administration which is quite common at the international level. Both of them are the same except for their terminology in the national & international markets.

⭐ Can I pursue a Ph.D. after online MBA while working?

Hybrid or Online Ph.D. programs are flexible alternatives to regular Ph.D. courses that can be pursued even after an online MBA.

⭐ Will an online DBA or Ph.D. after online MBA add a “Dr.” title to my name?

Hybrid & online modes of Ph.D. programs are globally recognized & add the prefix “Dr.” to your name upon completion.

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June 18, 2024

Purdue's graduate programs continued their elevation in latest U.S. News & World Report rankings

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — In the U.S. News & World Report’s 2024-25 Best Graduate School Rankings, 13 programs earned top 10 placements as Purdue continues to elevate its graduate education and research across the board.

“Purdue graduate students and faculty in master’s, doctoral and professional degree programs are among the best in the country,” Purdue President Mung Chiang said. “The latest graduate and research rankings reflect the success of our students and colleagues across multiple colleges as we continue to support scholarly excellence at scale.” 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION  

• Purdue recognized among world's best in latest QS rankings and rises to No. 8 among U.S. public universities
• Purdue University Online continues to achieve high national rankings
• Purdue University undergraduate national ranking jumps 8 spots, with 13 undergraduate programs in top 10 in the U.S .

Purdue’s heralded agricultural and biological engineering graduate program earned a No. 1 ranking for the fourth consecutive year. In the College of Engineering , 10 out of 12 departments ranked among the top 10 nationally, the best result in college history, with seven improving year over year:

• Agricultural and biological engineering: No. 1
• Aeronautics and astronautics: No. 2 (up four spots)
• Civil engineering: 5 (up two spots)
• Industrial engineering: 6 (up two spots)
• Electrical engineering: No. 7 (up one spot)
• Computer engineering: No. 8. (up two spots)
• Mechanical engineering: No. 8
• Environmental engineering: No. 9 (up three spots)
• Nuclear engineering: No. 10 (up one spot)
• Biomedical engineering: No. 7 (among universities without a medical school)

Several areas related to the Purdue Computes initiative , including the Department of Computer Science — joint across the College of Science and College of Engineering — also saw gains year over year: 

• Computer systems: 13 (up one spot)
• Computer science: 19 (up one spot) 

The reimagined Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business continued its positive momentum, as the information systems and part-time MBA programs each appeared in the rankings for the first time. Also, these top 10 programs maintained or enhanced their ranking:

• Production-operations: No. 3
• Project management: No. 4 (up three spots)
• Supply chain management: No. 7 (up two spots)

“Our graduate students are at the heart of our mission as a leading public land-grant research university, and we’ve consistently prioritized investments in their success,” said Patrick J. Wolfe, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs and diversity. “The hard work of Purdue faculty to elevate our graduate programs and their scholarly impact has driven this continued rise in national rankings, particularly in key strategic areas of enormous consequence to the university as a whole.”

In the School of Nursing in the College of Health and Human Sciences, the Doctor of Nursing Practice program jumped seven spots to No. 24, the biggest gain of any Purdue program in this ranking cycle. The overall master’s program also moved up three spots, to No. 22. Last August the Purdue University Board of Trustees approved plans to construct a transformative Nursing and Pharmacy Education Building , which will continue to accelerate the program’s significant growth. 

The 2024-25 Best Graduate Schools rankings are based on two types of data: expert opinion about program excellence and statistical indicators that measure the quality of a school’s faculty, research and students, and students’ postgraduate outcomes. Data for the rankings in business, education, engineering and nursing disciplines came from statistical surveys of 2,225 programs and from reputation surveys sent to approximately 5,766 academics and 10,941 professionals, conducted in fall 2023 and early 2024. To gather the peer assessment data, U.S. News asked deans, program directors and senior faculty to judge the academic quality of programs in their field on a scale of 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding).  

The visibility and stature of Purdue University continues to grow, as evidenced by these latest U.S. News & World Report graduate school rankings and several other accolades recently accrued:

• Earlier this month, Purdue was ranked as a top 8 public university in the U.S., in the top 25 overall domestically and in the top 90 globally in the 2025 QS World University Rankings .
• In February three Purdue online engineering master’s programs placed No. 1 in the U.S. News & World Report rankings of best online programs . Several other online programs made significant leaps to underscore Purdue’s mission to deliver high-quality online programs at scale.
• In the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings , Purdue surged seven spots domestically and over 40 spots globally, ranking No. 9 among U.S. public land-grant universities.
• Purdue enjoyed its best-ever showing in U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Best College rankings of undergraduate programs , jumping to No. 17 among public universities on a list of 435 ranked national universities and earning a sixth consecutive top 10 Most Innovative (No. 7) ranking.

About Purdue University  

Purdue University is a public research institution demonstrating excellence at scale. Ranked among top 10 public universities and with two colleges in the top four in the United States, Purdue discovers and disseminates knowledge with a quality and at a scale second to none. More than 105,000 students study at Purdue across modalities and locations, including nearly 50,000 in person on the West Lafayette campus. Committed to affordability and accessibility, Purdue’s main campus has frozen tuition 13 years in a row. See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap — including its first comprehensive urban campus in Indianapolis, the Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business, Purdue Computes and the One Health initiative — at  https://www.purdue.edu/president/strategic-initiatives .

Writer/Media contact: Derek Schultz, [email protected]  

Sources:   Mung Chiang, Patrick J. Wolfe

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Salaries for graduates of leading masters in finance programmes have grown much faster for those working in financial services compared with other sectors, in a sign of the industry’s strength. 

The latest Financial Times ranking shows that, among those who completed a masters in finance degree three years previously in one of 65 ranked schools, the average salary was $98,000 this year for those working in finance — up 12 per cent compared with 2023. For the third of graduates who chose to work in other sectors, the rise was 3 per cent to $78,000. 

Masters in Finance ranking 2024

This year’s FT ranking of courses

Of those who do not go on to work in the finance sector, the largest share are in consulting, followed by technology, manufacturing and energy.

The trend pointed to a fresh boost in the relative attractiveness — in salary terms — for graduates working in finance, and marked the largest pay differential in at least eight years.

The average salary of female graduates working in finance jumped to $91,000, narrowing the gap to men’s slightly, to 8 per cent, highlighting the still considerable disparity in what is traditionally a male-dominated career.

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Chris Connors of Johnson Associates, a New York-based financial services remuneration consultancy, notes that the surge in earnings was also seen in his firm’s data. He says it was caused by higher initial pay amid fierce competition for recruits, subsequent increases linked to high inflation and a recent rise in bonuses after two stable years.

“The sector was hiring like crazy and the war for talent was very pronounced, with way higher turnover,” he says. “Since 2021, base salaries have risen far more than historical rates in financial services.”

For the second year, ESCP maintained its position at the top of the FT ranking of “pre-experience” courses — for students with little or no prior professional work — while three other French-based schools were in the top four: HEC Paris , Skema , and Essec . London Business School retained its top position among the few institutions that offer a “post-experience” course for those who already have sector experience, ahead of the University of Cambridge: Judge and the University of Amsterdam — Amsterdam Business School . 

Among alumni of “pre-experience” courses who then go to work in finance, graduates who take a job in trading had the highest average starting salaries at $80,000, while those in non-financial sectors earned the least at $55,000. Three years after graduating, the top earners were those in private equity, venture capital, and hedge funds, earning an average of $120,000.

Since 2017, nearly three-quarters of these courses’ graduates have entered financial sector employment and, in each year, have earned more than those who go into non-financial sectors. The salary gap between graduates working in the financial and non-financial sectors has increased to $20,000, up from $6,000 in 2017.

The 2024 rankings were compiled using data from business schools and alumni who completed their masters in 2021. Participation by institutions is voluntary, and the list is weighted according to factors including salaries, gender balance and value for money.

The ranking data shows that there is still a significant majority of men, both as students and teachers. Just three of the 65 ranked schools had gender parity among faculty — IE in Spain, and Grenoble Ecole de Management and Iéseg in France. The proportion of female staff was as low as 17 per cent at Università della Svizzera italiana in Switzerland.

Among student cohorts, just Toulouse School of Management and Skema Business School in France had gender parity, while on average just over a third of the classes were female. The figure was as low as 11 per cent at Lucerne School of Business in Switzerland. 

The strength of the earnings increases is one possible reason for the continued demand for finance masters, despite a wider stagnation in less specialised business and management degrees, notably in Europe and North America.

Disruption of traditional finance jobs by artificial intelligence — with changes to both basic data entry and more sophisticated analytical work — has also sparked a restructuring by recruiters and a likely shift in students’ interests.

At the same time, several business schools say employers are increasingly demanding so-called “softer” skills, such as teamwork, communication and critical thinking, alongside “harder” quantitative skills, including coding and financial analysis.

Students are keen for greater hands-on project-based “experiential” learning with companies, too, and are pushing to learn about newer technologies such as cryptocurrencies, as well as ways to engage with sustainability and societal impact.

The FT ranking takes account of business schools’ approach to sustainability through their campus commitments to net zero emissions and publication of carbon emissions audits. Here, SDA Bocconi/Università Bocconi in Italy performed best, followed by BI Norwegian Business School and IE in Spain.

Across the ranked schools, alumni rated their strongest courses as corporate finance, investments and statistics. Compliance received the lowest rating from the graduates.

North American courses were the most expensive per month on average, while those taught in continental Europe were the cheapest — below the price for UK and Asia-based schools.

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Jun. 18, 2024

‘symbolic of the hard work and talent’: rice graduate programs rate highly in latest us news rankings, george r. brown school of engineering moves up four spots in ‘best engineering schools’.

A number of Rice University graduate programs are rated among the nation’s best in the latest edition of U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Graduate Schools” rankings.

The George R. Brown School of Engineering is ranked No. 26 nationally, up four spots from last year. Eight engineering disciplines are ranked in the top 30, five in the top 25 and two in the top 10: biomedical/bioengineering (No. 10), environmental engineering (No. 9, up from No. 12), computer engineering (No. 22, up from No. 26), civil engineering (No. 23), chemical engineering (No. 24), electrical engineering (No. 26), materials engineering (No. 26) and mechanical engineering (No. 27).

The Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Business, which ranks No. 29 nationally, has two programs in the top 15. The entrepreneurship program moved up two spots to No. 8, while the professional MBA program that U.S. News ranks in its part-time MBA category landed at No. 15.

“These rankings are symbolic of the hard work and talent of our amazing faculty, staff and students within our graduate programs,” Rice President Reginald DesRoches said. “I look forward to seeing these programs continue to excel in the coming years as they produce impactful research and scholarship.”

The U.S. News & World Report rankings are among the most closely monitored annual surveys of the nation’s institutions of higher education. Each year, the publication ranks professional school programs in business, education, engineering, law, medicine and nursing, including specialties in each area.

“The rankings reflect our ongoing commitment to excellence across the board,” said Amy Dittmar, the Howard Hughes Provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “These strides would not be possible without the sustained efforts of our faculty, deans, department chairs and Dean of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies Seiichi Matsuda and his team.”

“Rice’s research productivity reflects the scholarship, the creativity and the dedication of our extraordinarily talented graduate students,” Matsuda said. “As the university enhances and expands high-quality graduate programs, we provide more opportunities for bright, driven students to achieve their highest potential and in so doing, positively influence their communities, nation and the world.”

The Department of Computer Science tied for No. 27, moving up four spots from last year, and landed in the top 25 rankings in two specialties: tied for No. 19 in programming language and tied for No. 21 in systems (up from No. 23).

The U.S. News Best Graduate School rankings are based on expert opinions and statistical indicators measuring the quality of faculty, research and students. The publication compiles data from surveys of programs and reputation surveys sent to academics and professionals in fall 2023 and early 2024.

For more information on Rice’s rankings, click  here.

Students and graduates

Life as a microsoft intern, get inside the microsoft intern experience.

Every year, thousands of university students from every corner of the world join Microsoft. You bring your aspirations, talent, potential—and excitement for the journey ahead. Our internship experience brings interns from around the world together to connect, collaborate and co-create virtually to make a difference and impact the world.

A hybrid approach to internships

Starting a new career journey is a momentous occasion. As you plan to take an initial step on your new path, Microsoft internships provide a hybrid approach to enable a high-quality experience both virtually and in person. Hybrid by design is weaved into each of our locations, keeping the health and safety of our employees, interns, and their families as our highest priority.    

Whether joining us virtually or in person, all our interns are empowered to co-create their experience, build community, and explore their passions while working on projects that matter. 

Global student programs and internships

University internships

At Microsoft, our interns work on projects that matter – and your team will rely on your skills and insights to help deliver those projects to market. This is your chance to bring your solutions and ideas to life while working on cutting-edge technology. We offer internships in all job families and solution areas, and it’s open to current students in Bachelor’s, Master’s, MBA, PhD programs.

PhD internships

If you're pursuing a PhD and want to explore what it's like to work at Microsoft, look no further. We host PhD interns in both our product teams and in Microsoft Research (MSR). Our PhD interns are active, contributing members to our product and research community regardless if you are conducting cutting-edge research or engineering a new product. No matter what route you take—come work on meaningful, innovative projects that add to our company's success.

Microsoft Aspire Experience

We believe that Microsoft is a place for exploration, creativity, innovation, and professional growth. Microsoft Aspire Experience is an onboarding experience, designed to equip, develop, and empower those who join Microsoft after graduating from undergraduate school and MBA programs.

Global programs

• Imagine Cup
• Student ambassadors program
• HR rotational program
• Finance rotation program
• Cloud Supply Chain rotation

Register for the Imagine Cup. Make an impact through coding, collaboration, and competition. Innovate with passion to tackle global issues and bring your tech solutions to live in the Imagine Cup.

We are looking for student leaders with a passion for making a difference and sharing technology with their peers.

Our HR rotation program is a 3- year program that fosters learning and growth in the HR profession, and help you jumpstart your career.

Our Microsoft Finance Rotation Program (FRP) is a two-year program comprised of four, 6-month rotations, split across core finance functions. Kick starts your career in finance with a rotation in corporate functions, production/engineering finance, sales finance and more.

SCORE is a three-year career experience designed to provide emerging talent with an unparalleled journey through end-to-end cloud supply chain operations. Over three one-year rotations, participants will partner with and learn from our teams while building skills and supply chain acumen to accelerate their career growth.

U.S. regional internships and programs

Discovery program internship

The Discovery Program is a unique opportunity for students who are passionate about technology and want to make a positive impact on the world and society. This four-week internship is open to rising first-year students college students, based in Redmond, Washington or Atlanta, Georgia. Participants will work on a real project, learn from Microsoft employees and mentors, and explore different career paths in tech. Applications will be open in March 2024.

Explore Microsoft internship

Created for first- and second-year college students, Explore Microsoft is a 12-week summer internship that lets you try out different software engineering roles.

India regional internships and programs

• Academic partnership grant
• Cybersecurity
• MBA B-school PM Engage
• MBA B-school MCAPS

Microsoft Academic Partnership Grant is intended at fostering academia and industry collaborations and result in breakthrough innovations in search, cloud computing, and data-driven content creation.

More info to come when submissions for next year open.

A program to nurture cybersecurity enthusiasts via a specially curated learning journey.

Through this initiative, MBA students across B-schools in India interested in program management get a chance to be mentored by Microsoft and be a part of AMA sessions, webinars, and leader talks delivered by Microsoft employees.

Microsoft invites students enrolled in 2-year MBA program and currently in their 1st year MBA to apply for internship opportunities. During the 8-10 weeks internship, you'll work on projects that matter – and your team will rely on your skills and insights to help deliver those projects to the market. You’ll get the opportunity to work on real projects and have fun along the way. This is your chance to show off your skills and work on cutting edge technology.

More info to come when applications for next year open.

Resources to help you on your journey to Microsoft

Learn tech skills through top universities.

Explore modules and learning paths from universities like Carnegie Mellon University, University of Oxford, and UC Berkeley to prepare you for a career in cloud.

Diverse perspectives fuel innovation

Join a community that encourages everyone to bring their full and best selves to work each day.

Microsoft culture in action

Our culture leads us to find ways to help people do ordinary and sometimes extraordinary things.

Perks and benefits

Empowering our employees to be through more than the work they do each day. At Microsoft, we work to ensure essential benefits are available globally.  

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From Monterrey to Microsoft

Diego Garza wrapped up his second internship last summer.  See why he says he feels empowered and can’t wait to come back. 

A rising tech star

A college student attends an event that leads to her dream job. 

What the Explore Microsoft program is all about

Hear from alums of the Explore Microsoft program, and how it helped shape their careers. 

It all started with a Windows internship

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