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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 four areas of study: Accounting and 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)  , marketing  , organizational behavior  , strategy  , technology & operations management  .

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Search results (530)

Ph.D. candidate for modelling & optimising highly efficient drive systems for E-vehicles based on GaN devices

Ph.D. candidate for modelling & optimising highly efficient drive systems for E-vehicles based on GaN devicesThe Laboratory for High Power Electronic Systems (HPE) at the Department of Information ...

Doctoral student in Political Science

Sapere Aude—dare to be wise—is our motto. Our students and employees develop knowledge and expertise that enrich both people and the world around them. Our academic environment is characterised by ...

Doctoral student in Political Science (psychological defense and disinfo.)

PhD Candidate for Computational Approaches for Studying Animal Behavior, Personality, and Emotions

About our Campus: Rehovot Campus (Rehovot) and Mt. Scopus Campus (Jerusalem). The position will be based across two campuses: The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment on The Hebrew University’s beautiful Rehovot Campus. Reh...

PhD PROJECT IN ENDOTHELIAL CELL HETEROGENEITY DURING STROKE

A pre-doctoral position in the context of a KU Leuven competitive 4-year C1 funding project entitled ‘Is the cerebroprotective function of Prdm16 during ischemic stroke mediated by controlling the ...

PhD position in the anthropology of tourism impacts in remote areas

Project Many places around the globe have turned towards tourism to sustain local livelihoods and conserve cultural and natural resources. Despite this widespread practice, there are still hardly a...

Ph.D. candidate for designing, modelling & optimising charging systems for E-vehicles based on GaN devices

Ph.D. candidate for designing, modelling & optimising charging systems for E-vehicles based on GaN devicesThe Laboratory for High Power Electronic Systems (HPE) at the Department of Information Tec...

PhD Student on the topic "Audiovisual perception, interaction and cognition in real-world and eXtended Reality Environments" (f/m/d)

In the Audiovisual Technology Group, Ilmenau Interactive Immersive Technologies Center (www.tu-ilmenau.de/i3tc) at the Technische Universität Ilmenau (Germany) is a vacancy for aPhD Student on the topic "Audiovisual perception, interaction and cog...

PhD in Health Monitoring of Aircraft Structures and Systems

Applications are invited for a PhD fellowship. This PhD is situated in a joint project between the Departments of Mechanical and Materials Engineering of the KU Leuven - Campus Ghent, to fully cove...

PhD student position: quantum sensing of biomolecules and their chemical stimuli.

For the prestigious PhD school of the Swiss Nanoscience Institute, we solicit applications for a paid 4-year PhD student position in the Biomolecular Nano-Dynamics group at the Dept. of Chemistry a...

PhD/Researcher position: Privacy Engineering through Source Code Analysis

DistriNet is a leading research group specializing in secure and distributed software, embedded in the KU Leuven Department of Computer Science. With over 100 researchers, including 15 full-time pr...

Doctoral candidates in Statistics and Probability

The University | About us...The MATHCODA Doctoral Training Unit is a doctoral program covering a coherent set of themes around the ideation and study of novel mathematical tools for dealing with hi...

PhD position on CRISPR diagnostics on-chip to improve cervical cancer screening

Job descriptionCervical cancer is the most common gynecological cancer and this cancer could be prevented by screening programs. Currently the participation rates are low and in this project we wan...

PhD/Researcher position: Decentralized Data Sharing Middleware for Data Spaces

PhD in 3 years: Doctoral Researcher in Nanomedicine Based Cancer Therapy

The University of Oulu is a multidisciplinary, international research university, with about 3,600 employees who produce new knowledge based on high-standards research and provide research based ed...

PhD position on "On-Chip Separation of Proteins for Single-Cell Proteome Profiling"

PhD position on "On-Chip Separation of Proteins for Single-Cell Proteome Profiling"The laboratory of Single-Molecule and Single-Cell Biophysics (BMC)is a research group in the Department of Informa...

PhD Position in Magnetoelectric Nanoparticles for Enhanced Catalysis

PhD Position in Magnetoelectric Nanoparticles for Enhanced CatalysisHave you ever dreamed of controlling chemical reactions using magnetic fields? With magnetoelectric composite nanoparticles actin...

PhD: Automated Testing of Autonomous Satellite

About the SnTSnT is a leading international research and innovation centre in secure, reliable and trustworthy ICT systems and services. We play an instrumental role in Luxembourg by fueling innova...

Doctoral Researcher, Memory Politics

 The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Jyväskylä is seeking to recruit:A Doctoral Researcher in Memory Politics for a fixed term of 3 years, starting on January 2nd 202...

PhD Reconfigurable metasurfaces for Radar Cross Section (RCS) control

PhD Research Project "Reconfigurable metasurfaces for Radar Cross Section (RCS) control" Promoter: Prof. dr. G. Gerini (TU/e Electromagnetics Group – TNO Optics Department)Position PhD-studentIrène Curie Fellowship NoDepartment(s) Electrical Engin...

PhD Thesis Student (f/m) on ID06-LVP in the Matter at Extremes Group

The European Synchrotron, the ESRF, is an international research centre based in Grenoble, France.Through its innovative engineering, pioneering scientific vision and a strong commitment from its 700 staff members, the ESRF is recognised as one of...

PhD position in Human-Centric Optimization for Supply Chain Excellence

Position PhD-studentIrène Curie Fellowship NoDepartment(s) Industrial Engineering and Innovation SciencesFTE 1,0Date off 08/09/2024Reference number V39.7650Job descriptionThe labor shortage in the Netherlands has become a critical issue, affecting...

PhD Student on the topic "Audiovisual scene analysis and cognitive performance for speech perception in multi-person scenarios in eXtended Reality (XR)" (f/m/d)

In the Audiovisual Technology Group, Ilmenau Interactive Immersive Technologies Center (www.tu-ilmenau.de/i3tc) at the Technische Universität Ilmenau (Germany) is a vacancy for aPhD Student on the topic "Audiovisual scene analysis and cognitive pe...

Three PhD positions on computational illumination optics design

Are you eager to use your mathematical skills to model and design optical systems for sustainable high-tech devices for billions of people? Do you like to develop and analyze numerical methods for partial differential equations?Position PhD-studen...

2 PhD Positions in Designing and Optimizing Materials for Bacterial-Based Sustainable Biopesticide Delivery Systems

2 PhD Positions in Designing and Optimizing Materials for Bacterial-Based Sustainable Biopesticide Delivery SystemsThe bioMatter Microfluidics (Dr. Eleonora Secchi, D-BAUG) and SoftMat Group (Prof....

PhD position on Practical AI Planning with Ontologies 100%

The Artificial Intelligence (https://ai.dmi.unibas.ch/) research group at the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Basel, is seeking a PhD candidate for a collaborative pro...

PhD Student on ID03 in the Structure of Materials group

Phd scholarship within the project coloring white habits.

Looking for a creative PhD opportunity that engages Religion and Diversity? This project incorporates Arts Based Research with Participative Action Research to observe and analyze representation fo...

Doctoral Student in Computational Chemistry

Doctoral Student in Computational ChemistryProf. Dr. Sereina Riniker's group for Computational Chemistry at the Institute of Molecular Physical Science is interested in the development of methodolo...

PhD position: “Reconstructing and attributing regional sea-level change in the 20th century using climate models”

The Department of Estuarine and Delta Systems (EDS) is looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate with a background in physical geography, oceanography or meteorology. The position is part of a l...

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Open Access Theses and Dissertations

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About OATD.org

OATD.org aims to be the best possible resource for finding open access graduate theses and dissertations published around the world. Metadata (information about the theses) comes from over 1100 colleges, universities, and research institutions . OATD currently indexes 7,210,812 theses and dissertations.

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You may also want to consult these sites to search for other theses:

• Google Scholar
• NDLTD , the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations. NDLTD provides information and a search engine for electronic theses and dissertations (ETDs), whether they are open access or not.
• Proquest Theses and Dissertations (PQDT), a database of dissertations and theses, whether they were published electronically or in print, and mostly available for purchase. Access to PQDT may be limited; consult your local library for access information.

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Applying to the PhD Program

What you need to know to apply

If you are intellectually curious and like to be challenged by new ideas and experiences, consider a Kellogg PhD. Our students shift from being consumers of knowledge to being producers of new knowledge. Through their publications and teaching, Kellogg graduates contribute to business practice and society.

Preparing to apply

Each year, Kellogg receives over 850 applications to its eight PhD programs. On average 25 students enroll each fall.

PhD study requires strong quantitative skills to develop theories and manage and analyze data. This program is especially well suited to those who have previously studied social sciences (such as economics, political science, psychology and sociology), mathematics, natural sciences or engineering.

To be eligible for admission, you must hold a U.S bachelor’s degree — or a comparable non-U.S. degree — from a regionally accredited institution. You may be considered for admission before you finish your undergraduate degree, but you must complete that degree before you enroll at Kellogg. A three-year bachelor’s degree is also accepted.

Application review

During the admissions process, we will evaluate your application file and how your research interests align with the research expertise of our faculty. Also included in our review is the strength of your recommendation letters, academic record, and performance on standardized tests. Your application will help us understand if you are ready to seize all the opportunities that come with joining Kellogg.

Our faculty will assess your:

• Application responses

Transcripts

• Test scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Writing sample (optional)

For international candidates, the committee also assesses:

• English language proficiency 

Master’s degree holders

A master’s degree is not required for enrollment in our PhD programs. For applicants with a master’s degree, note that the coursework taken in a master’s program will not shorten your time to degree. No transfer credit is provided with a master’s and students must satisfy their PhD coursework requirements in full while studying at Kellogg.

Opportunities for collaborative research across programs and schools at Northwestern University are always available; interdisciplinary research is our strength. However, Northwestern permits applicants to apply to one PhD program a year .

There is an exception through the dual application option with the Economics PhD Program, which is outlined below.

Academic experience

The Kellogg PhD Program offers eight distinct areas of focus, each with varying types of experience that are needed for success.

Economics-based PhD programs

• These include Accounting Information & Management, Finance, Financial Economics, Managerial Economics & Strategy, Operations Management, and Marketing (quantitative area)
• Evidence of solid training in math, econometrics and statistics within the application
• Recommended math courses include calculus, linear algebra, probability and mathematical statistics

Behavioral/Sociological-based PhD programs

• These programs include Marketing, Management & Organizations, and a joint program between Management & Organizations & Sociology
• Evidence of statistics for social scientists and quantitative thinking, as well as a strong understanding of central concepts of probability and statistics
• Background in social psychology and sociology

Dual application with Weinberg Economics

Applicants seeking to enroll in an economics-based doctoral program have the option to submit a second application for review to the Economics PhD Program. Kellogg PhD programs participating in this dual application option include, Accounting Information & Management, Finance, Managerial Economics & Strategy and Marketing (quantitative area).

More details about this option are available on The Graduate School website.

Financial aid

Kellogg offers a five-year financial aid package to all admitted doctoral students that includes a stipend, tuition scholarships, health insurance, moving allowance and a subsidy to purchase a computer.

Contact CollegeNET Technical support for help with its online application .

Get a sense for Kellogg faculty expertise, academic research and published work.

• Faculty directory
• Northwestern Scholars database
• To apply for a Kellogg PhD, you will need an updated version of your resume or CV, transcripts from all academic institutions, test scores, an academic statement, a personal statement and three recommendation letters.

How to write your application

Your resume or cv.

Your resume or CV should summarize all of your qualifications, honors, educational accomplishments, and if applicable, current research papers.

Please list all schools where you were registered for courses at the college level, including community colleges, study abroad institutions and current registrations whether or not in a degree program.

Provide one transcript from each college/university you have attended that documents each course taken beyond high-school level, whether or not within a degree program. Certification of degrees received, including the date the degree was awarded, should be noted on the transcript and/or diploma. Please note:

• The Kellogg PhD application requires unofficial transcripts . There is no need to send official transcripts prior to enrollment. Official transcripts are needed only if you decide to enroll
• For applicants who studied at international institutions, transcripts must be accompanied with an official English translation, if applicable

Form for courses taken

The Courses Taken form lets anyone applying to our economics-based programs highlight advanced university courses that directly support their chosen field of study and proficiency in the subject matter. The form allows for up to six advanced courses in each specific area. If you cannot access our form, you may create and upload a form that contains the same information in applicable areas of study.

Download the following forms if you plan to apply to one of these programs. Forms are required with your application submission:

• Accounting Information & Management
• Financial Economics
• Operations Management

If you plan to apply to either of these programs, we highly recommend you fill out one of these forms:

• Managerial Economics & Strategy
• Marketing (quantitative)

Standardized tests

All applicants are required to submit either the GRE or the GMAT regardless of previous experience and/or advanced degrees. We take a holistic approach to the application-review process, meaning there is no minimum score required for eligibility. Test scores are reviewed within the context of the entire application.

GRE required for:

• Management & Organizations & Sociology

GRE or GMAT required for:

• Management & Organizations

The Finance program prefers the GRE, but will accept the GMAT.

The GRE At Home and the GMAT Online exams are accepted. GRE and GMAT scores are valid for five years from the date taken. The institution code for GMAT is: 6WZ-3J-54 (PhD Program, Kellogg). The institution code for GRE is: 1565 (Northwestern Graduate School).

Unofficial test score reports are used during the application review process; however, official GRE and GMAT test scores are required if admission is recommended.

English language proficiency tests

If your native language is not English, The Graduate School requires that you certify proficiency in the English language in one of the following ways:

If your native language is not English, Northwestern requires that you certify proficiency in the English language in one of the following ways:

• TOELF:  We accept 600 or higher on the paper-based exam, 250 or higher on the computer-based exam, or 100 or higher on the Internet-based exam. TOEFL scores through at-home testing service are accepted. The TOEFL institution code is: 1565 (The Graduate School)
• IELTS:  Unofficial score report, submitted at the time of application, for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) . The IELTS Academic test must be taken no more than two years before the intended quarter of entry (fall quarter). IELTS test takers should score 7.0 or higher. IELTS scores submitted through its at-home testing service are accepted
• MET:  We accept Michigan English Test scores of 70 or higher
• Earning an undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited institution where the language of instruction is English. Please note, Kellogg provides the waiver after an application is submitted and transcripts have been reviewed. No additional documentation is required. Applicants will see the waiver noted within their online account
• Automatically Waived:  Applicants that are citizens from the following countries where English is the native language will have the requirement automatically waived upon submission of the application (Australia, Barbados, Bermuda, Great Britain, Gibraltar, Israel, Jamaica, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands)

Standardized exams must be taken no more than two years before the intended quarter of entry. Unofficial scores are used during the review process. Official test scores are required only if admission is recommended.

DuoLingo or TOEFL Essentials are not accepted. Kellogg does not require the Test of Spoken English (TSE).

This is your opportunity to share the depth and breath of your academic education. In addition to the tactical and practical elements, think about how each experience helped you grow into the candidate you are today.

Academic statement 

You have a max limit of 1,000 words to answer the following questions:

• What are your academic interests, and why do you wish to pursue graduate studies in this specific program?
• How has your academic and professional background prepared you for graduate study? (Include any research, training, or educational experiences that align with the program you are applying to)
• How will our program help you achieve your intellectual and professional goals?
• What scholarly questions do you wish to explore in the program? (Make sure to include any specific faculty members whose research interests align with your own)

Personal statement 

Write a statement that addresses the following prompt (500 words max):

The Graduate School values diverse backgrounds, approaches, and perspectives, understanding them as essential ingredients for true academic excellence. As a Northwestern graduate student, how would you contribute to an intellectual community that prioritizes equity, inclusion, belonging and cultural humility?

Your answer may draw upon past or present experiences, whether in academic work, extracurricular or community activities, or everyday life.

While a paper is not required for admission to Kellogg’s PhD programs, the Sociology Department does require one, where the applicant is the sole-author, for consideration to the joint program in Management & Organizations and Sociology.

We do not require a writing sample to be submitted with the application; however, you may include one writing sample (30-page maximum) with your application. Hyperlink this paper and any other papers you have on your resume. *Please note: Only one writing sample will be reviewed. Do not upload more than one paper.

We require three letters. Additionally, we ask all recommenders to include Northwestern University’s Graduate Applicant Assessment Form found within the application. Recommendation letters from professors or instructors could include:

• A description of the nature of your relationship. Did you take one or more classes with the professor?
• A description of a research project or honors thesis, discussing the quality of the work, technical and writing skills, research methods used, data analysis, originality, depth of research undertaken, questions/problems raised, contribution to the field, etc.
• The letter should also provide a ranking — how you compared to other students

Recommendation letters from employers and business associates could include:

• Insights into your aptitude, character and working style — ability to work on your own, self-starter, complete a project on time, etc.
• Any research or data analysis you have done within the scope of your work

All letters must be submitted online through our web-based application, CollegeNET . Directions for uploading letters and accessing the Graduate Applicant Assessment Form will be sent to recommenders once the applicant has entered the contact information within the application. We are not able to accept recommendation letters by email.

A $95 non-refundable fee must be paid by credit or debit card within the online application. For those participating in the dual application option with the Economics PhD Program, the application fee is $175. The Graduate School (TGS) at Northwestern University administers the fee waiver program. If you wish to be considered for a fee waiver, please refer to The Graduate School’s website on Application Fees .

After you submit

You’ve invested time, energy and resources into completing your application, so no doubt you’ll want confirmation that your application was received. And we want you to have that peace of mind, too.

So, once you submit your application, you can log back into CollegeNet at any time to view the status and double check that all sections were successfully completed.

We welcome anyone who is interested in reapplying to the doctoral program. Additional time can frequently further cement your research goals and application strength. However, we are unable to provide specific application feedback if you applied in the past.

All candidates can reapply in future years, but you must submit a new application, supporting documents and application fee.

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EBSCO Open Dissertations

EBSCO Open Dissertations makes electronic theses and dissertations (ETDs) more accessible to researchers worldwide. The free portal is designed to benefit universities and their students and make ETDs more discoverable. 

Increasing Discovery & Usage of ETD Research

With EBSCO Open Dissertations, institutions are offered an innovative approach to driving additional traffic to ETDs in institutional repositories. Our goal is to help make their students’ theses and dissertations as widely visible and cited as possible.

EBSCO Open Dissertations extends the work started in 2014, when EBSCO and the H.W. Wilson Foundation created American Doctoral Dissertations which contained indexing from the H.W. Wilson print publication, Doctoral Dissertations Accepted by American Universities, 1933-1955. In 2015, the H.W. Wilson Foundation agreed to support the expansion of the scope of the American Doctoral Dissertations database to include records for dissertations and theses from 1955 to the present.

How Does EBSCO Open Dissertations Work?

Libraries can add theses and dissertations to the database, making them freely available to researchers everywhere while increasing traffic to their institutional repository.  ETD metadata is harvested via OAI and integrated into EBSCO’s platform, where pointers send traffic to the institution's IR.

EBSCO integrates this data into their current subscriber environments and makes the data available on the open web via opendissertations.org .

You might also be interested in:

• PhD in USA – A Guide for 2024/25
• Finding a PhD

A PhD in USA takes approximately 5 – 6 years of full-time study and can cost between $12,000 – $45,000 per academic year. PhD programs in USA differ from that in the UK and Europe in that students must first take taught classes, coursework and exams before starting their research project.

Why Do a PhD in USA?

The United States has long had some of the most distinguished universities and advanced PhD programmes in the world. Combined with curriculum flexibility, rigorous teaching methods, vast funding opportunities, breathtaking campuses and significant career prospects, it’s no wonder that it is one of the most sought-after study destinations for research students.

In addition to comprehensive training standards, here are a few other reasons why a student may choose to undertake their PhD in the United States:

• Longer learning timeframes – A PhD in the US lasts longer than a PhD in the UK or Europe. This allows students to more confidently transition from undergraduate to postgraduate studies; more commonly referred to as ‘graduate studies’ in the US. This gives you the opportunity to learn more about your subject, research methods and academic writing in general before starting your research project.
• World-class universities – It’s no secret that some of the most well-known higher education institutions that continue to dominate global rankings are based in the United States. Although many factors go into determining whether a position is right for you, a PhD at a high-ranking American university will undeniably have many benefits, from excellent learning standards to access to innovative equipment and deep expertise.
• International network – The US has long been a popular choice among PhD students around the world. As such, the US hosts a diverse and multicultural learning environment in which many research students will quickly feel at home.
• Opportunities – With over 4,000 universities in the US, we can safely say you will have plenty of opportunities to find the ideal combination of project, supervisor and university that works for you.

Universities in USA

Universities in the United States can be divided into two types: public universities and private universities.

Public universities are financed by the state in which they are based. Because of this, public universities charge less for students from within the state and more for students from outside the state, including international students.

Private universities are not financed by their state, but by private donors, research funds and tuition fees. For this reason, private universities generally charge higher tuition fees than public universities and require all students to pay the same amount, regardless of whether they come from out-of-state or abroad.

According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024 , eight of the top ten universities in the world are located in the United States. These are:

Method of Study

The main difference between a PhD in the US and a PhD in Europe lies in the program structure. Whereas a European PhD essentially consists of a single phase lasting three to four years , an American PhD consists of three different phases, each with its own time frame.

• Phase One – The first phase lasts approximately two years and focuses on building a basic foundation for the doctoral student. This phase consists largely of taught components such as lectures, tutorials and laboratory sessions, in which the student learns more about theoretical concepts and research methods within their discipline.
• Phase Two – The second phase can be considered an assessment phase, which runs both periodically alongside and at the end of the first phase. Here, students complete coursework and take exams on the basis of the material they have covered of which they must pass in order to proceed to the third phase.
• Phase Three – The third phase lasts approximately three years and resembles the European PhD structure. During this period, the student undertakes an independent research project, including forming a research design, conducting experiments, writing a thesis (more commonly referred to in the USA as a dissertation) and sitting a viva exam.

Teaching Requirements

Besides structure, a key difference between a PhD program in the US and in Europe is the focus on teaching requirements. In the US, doctoral students are expected to lecture, lead tutorials, host laboratory sessions, mark coursework and provide office hours for undergraduate students. Although students studying in European will likely contribute to these at some point during their study, this would normally be on a voluntary basis and involve less time commitment.

Research Flexibility

Another difference is project flexibility. In Europe, students typically apply to a PhD project predetermined by a supervisor, and although there may be some scope to adapt the project, depending on the funding provider , it will usually be limited to how the project is carried out rather than what it is about. In the US, however, a student applies to become a doctoral candidate within a department rather than applying for a particular research project. This is because students are expected to decide on their thesis topic (also commonly referred to as a dissertation research topic) near the end of their first phase after they have developed a better understanding of their subject and know where their interests lie. Therefore, research students in the US generally have more flexibility and influence in the direction of their research than students in the United Kingdom or Europe.

PhD Admission Requirements in USA

PhD admission into US universities can be highly competitive, both because of the limited number of positions and the large number of annual applicants.

The eligibility requirements for a doctoral program in the USA can generally be divided into four sections:

• Grade Point Average ( GPA ) – in the US, a scoring system known as Grade Point Average is used to measure academic ability. A student’s GPA is calculated as a weighted score of the subjects they study during their undergraduate degree; an equivalent score is calculated by universities for international applicants. Although universities rarely set minimum GPA requirements for doctoral study, it’s worth being aware that a GPA of 3.0 is equivalent to a UK second class honours (2:1); the typical entry requirement for UK universities.
• Graduate Records Exam (GRE) – most universities will require you to take a series of examinations known as Graduate Records Exams, which are used to determine your suitability for graduate study. GREs will assess your analytical, reasoning and critical thinking skills as well as your depth of your subject.
• Student aptitude – in addition to academic ability, US universities also look for characteristics of a strong researcher. These include traits such as engaging in the subject in your own time, e.g. by attending talks and conferences, demonstrating a high degree of independence and enthusiasm, and a general passion for your subject.
• English Language Proficiency – international students whose first language is not English must sit language exams such as IELTS or TOELF to demonstrate their English language proficiency.

International students will also require a F1 student visa in order to study in the US, however, you would typically apply for this after you have secured a place into a doctorate program.

How to Apply for PhD in USA

When applying for a PhD position at a graduate school, the application process will differ between universities, however, they will all typically ask for the following:

• Academic CV – a short document summarising your educational background and current level of experience .
• Personal statement – a document which outlines why you believe you are suitable for PhD study and your passion for the subject.
• Academic transcripts – a complete breakdown of the modules and their respective marks you have taken as part of your previous/current degree.
• GRE scores – a transcript of your Graduate Records Exam results.
• Research statement – a condensed version of a research proposal outlining your general research interests, if required.
• Recommendation letters – references from several academic referees who endorse your qualities as a person, your abilities as a student and your potential as a doctoral researcher.

Application Deadlines and Fees

Since PhD programs in the United States have taught components, they commence at the same time as all other taught degrees, and therefore share the same application deadlines and start dates. This corresponds to an application period that typically begins in August and ends in February. Admission decisions are typically made in April, with successful students starting in August/September.

When you apply to a graduate school, you will be expected to pay a fee for each doctorate application to cover the school’s administrative costs for processing your application. The fee varies from university to university, but typically ranges from $50 to $100 .

Funding your PhD in USA

It’s very common for a PhD student to receive financial aid in the form of a PhD scholarship; in fact, this will be the case for the vast majority of students in the US.

PhD funding can be ‘fully funded’ covering the student’s graduate program tuition fees, accommodation and living costs, or ‘partially funded’ covering the student’s tuition fee only in part or full.

Besides funding, a graduate student can take on an assistantship, such as a graduate teaching assistant or research assistant, in which they take on a part-time salaried position at the university alongside their studies.

Due to the international and collaborate nature of American universities, there are also a number of international scholarships available, such as the Fulbright Scholarship and the AAUW International Fellowship .

PhD Duration in USA

In the US, a PhD takes approximately 5 – 6 years to complete if studying full-time, and 8 – 10 years if studying part-time.

If you already have a Master’s degree, your first phase can be shortened by one year at the discretion of the university.

Cost of a PhD in USA

The cost of a PhD program in the US can vary considerably depending on the type of university, i.e. whether it’s a public or private university, the doctoral course, i.e. whether it’s in a STEM subject such as computer science, engineering or a non-STEM subject, and whether you are a home or international student.

In general, however, the typical annual tuition fee for a PhD in the US is between $12,000 and $45,000 per academic year.

As with any doctoral degree, additional costs may include travel for collaborations, bench fees, accommodation and living expenses.

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Admission Steps

Higher education - phd, admission requirements.

Terms and Deadlines

Degree and GPA Requirements

Additional Standards for Non-Native English Speakers

Additional standards for international applicants.

For the 2025-2026 academic year

See 2024-2025 requirements instead

Fall 2025 quarter (beginning in September)

Priority deadline: December 2, 2024

Final submission deadline: June 16, 2025

International submission deadline: May 5, 2025

Priority deadline: Applications will be considered after the Priority deadline provided space is available.

Final submission deadline: Applicants cannot submit applications after the final submission deadline.

Degrees and GPA Requirements

Bachelors degree: All graduate applicants must hold an earned baccalaureate from a regionally accredited college or university or the recognized equivalent from an international institution.

Masters degree: This program requires a masters degree as well as the baccalaureate.

University GPA requirement: The minimum grade point average for admission consideration for graduate study at the University of Denver must meet one of the following criteria:

A cumulative 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the baccalaureate degree.

A cumulative 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the last 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits (approximately two years of work) for the baccalaureate degree.

An earned master’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution or the recognized equivalent from an international institution supersedes the minimum GPA requirement for the baccalaureate.

A cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for all graduate coursework completed for applicants who have not earned a master’s degree or higher.

Official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), C1 Advanced or Duolingo English Test are required of all graduate applicants, regardless of citizenship status, whose native language is not English or who have been educated in countries where English is not the native language. Your TOEFL/IELTS/C1 Advanced/Duolingo English Test scores are valid for two years from the test date.

The minimum TOEFL/IELTS/C1 Advanced/Duolingo English Test score requirements for this degree program are:

Minimum TOEFL Score (Internet-based test): 80

Minimum IELTS Score: 6.5

Minimum C1 Advanced Score: 176

Minimum Duolingo English Test Score: 115

Additional Information:

Read the English Language Proficiency policy for more details.

Read the Required Tests for GTA Eligibility policy for more details.

Per Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) regulation, international applicants must meet all standards for admission before an I-20 or DS-2019 is issued, [per U.S. Federal Register: 8 CFR § 214.3(k)] or is academically eligible for admission and is admitted [per 22 C.F.R. §62]. Read the Additional Standards For International Applicants policy for more details.

Application Materials

Transcripts, letters of recommendation.

Required Essays and Statements

Other Required Materials

We require a scanned copy of your transcripts from every college or university you have attended. Scanned copies must be clearly legible and sized to print on standard 8½-by-11-inch paper. Transcripts that do not show degrees awarded must also be accompanied by a scanned copy of the diploma or degree certificate. If your academic transcripts were issued in a language other than English, both the original documents and certified English translations are required.

Transcripts and proof of degree documents for postsecondary degrees earned from institutions outside of the United States will be released to a third-party international credential evaluator to assess U.S. education system equivalencies. Beginning July 2023, a non-refundable fee for this service will be required before the application is processed.

Upon admission to the University of Denver, official transcripts will be required from each institution attended.

Three (3) letters of recommendation are required.  Letters should be submitted by recommenders through the online application.

Essays and Statements

Personal statement instructions.

The Higher Education Department understands equity, diversity, and social justice as essential and fundamental concerns in the study, practice, and leadership of post-secondary education.  Please provide a personal statement of academic and professional goals (1-2 pages, double-spaced).  Include in your statement: (1) Research interests and professional objectives in the study of higher education. (2) Any personal, educational, and employment experiences that have shaped your research and professional interests in the study of higher education. (3) Expectations for how the PhD in Higher Education at the University of Denver specifically will support your research interests and professional objectives.  Note: if there is a specific faculty member with whom you would like to work, based on your research interests, please mention and discuss in this statement.

Diversity Statement Instructions

Please provide a statement of equity, diversity, and social justice (1-2 pages, double-spaced). Include in your statement: (1) Your thoughts on the roles and opportunities for equity, diversity, and social justice in postsecondary institutions and/or higher education policy. (2) Any personal, academic, and/or professional experiences that have shaped your understanding and commitment to equity, diversity, and social justice in higher education.

Résumé Instructions

The résumé (or C.V.) should include work experience, research, and/or volunteer work.

Additional requirements for this program:

Virtual interview may be required.

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Financial Aid Information

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Your submitted materials will be reviewed once all materials and application fees have been received.

Our program can only consider your application for admission if our Office of Graduate Education has received all your online materials and supplemental materials by our application deadline.

Application Fee: $65.00 Application Fee

International Degree Evaluation Fee: $50.00 Evaluation Fee for degrees (bachelor's or higher) earned from institutions outside the United States.

Applicants should complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 15. Visit the Office of Financial Aid for additional information.

• How to Choose the Right PhD Programme: A Comprehensive Guide

How to Choose the Right PhD Programme

Written by Mark Bennett

Choosing the right PhD programme isn't just about finding a course to study; it's about committing to a transformative journey of extended research and producing an original contribution to knowledge.

Unlike undergraduate or even Master's degrees , selecting the right PhD requires more careful consideration and insight. This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to choose a PhD programme, step by step.

Take your time

A PhD typically spans three years or more and can become monotonous if you're not deeply interested in your research topic. Each step in this guide encourages you to take your time and be methodical.

Cultivating this ability to be systematic and diligent when searching for a doctorate is excellent preparation for actually doing one. Remember, patience at this stage will pay off throughout your doctoral journey.

• Follow the steps in this guide, compare multiple opportunities and reflect on your decision-making process.
• Thoroughly research each programme and consult with current students or alumni to gain deeper insights.
• Schedule visits to campuses if possible to get a feel for the research environment and community.
• Apply for the first project you find and eventually end up studying a field that doesn't genuinely interest you.
• Rush through your decision-making process due to external pressures or deadlines.

Choose what kind of doctorate you’re looking for

Before finding the right doctorate, you need to understand the different types of PhDs available:

• Advertised projects : Common in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Medicine (STEM) subjects; these projects are offered within established labs or research groups. They typically come with defined objectives and funding, making them a structured pathway.
• Self-proposed projects : More common in Arts, Humanities, and some Social Sciences; you select your own topic and propose it to a university or supervisor. This type offers more freedom and creativity but requires a well-defined research proposal and often entails sourcing your own funding.
• Professional doctorates : Vocational subjects such as Business and Management often award specialised qualifications like the DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) . These are suited for individuals aiming for high-level professional practice rather than academic careers.

The subject you wish to research will help narrow down the type of doctorate you should pursue. Also, think about your career aspirations post-PhD. Whether you want to remain in academia, transition to industry, or enter public service, your choice will influence the kind of doctorate you should opt for.

• Learn about different types of PhD (as well as the differences between them) and take a look at the kind of doctorates offered in your subject area .
• Consult academic advisors or mentors to understand how different types of doctorates align with your career goals.
• Waste time searching for unrealistic combinations like a Doctor of Business Administration in a field irrelevant to business.
• Assume that all PhDs are the same regardless of their structure and objectives.

Pick a project that pairs passion with practicality

Choosing a PhD topic means finding one that is specific but has the right scope for a three to four-year project. Ensure your project has clear objectives and is something you are passionate about. It should be feasible within the allocated time frame and resources.

• Look for projects with objectives you care about and problems that are meaningful to you.
• Discuss potential topics with prospective supervisors to understand their feasibility and relevance.
• Overreach by attempting to solve monumental problems that could take decades to address in only three years.
• Choose a topic solely because it seems trendy or popular if it doesn't genuinely interest you.

Research your research

Confirm that your PhD idea is both original and worthwhile. Use resources like our PhD search tool to compare current projects. This can offer insights into the research landscape in your field. Investigate if there are existing gaps in the literature that your research could fill, and assess the potential impact of your findings.

• Investigate thoroughly and see how your project fits into the existing body of work.
• Look for recently published papers and ongoing research efforts to gauge the novelty and importance of your topic.
• Assume your idea is unique without checking to see if others are working on similar topics.
• Overlook the importance of a well-crafted research proposal that highlights the significance and potential contributions of your work.

Try before you buy

Get a taste of what working in your research area is like. Read recent papers or journal articles on your topic to understand what you’ll be engaging with over the next few years. Attend conferences or workshops to immerse yourself in the academic community and current debates within your field.

• Study current research in your field to see if it's something you find engaging and interesting.
• Take part in relevant seminars or webinars that can offer deeper insights into ongoing research.
• Commit to years of research only to find out you dislike the academic material involved.
• Ignore the value of networking with other researchers and peers in your potential field.

Think about your research environment

When choosing the right university, consider the research environment it offers. Look at the facilities, postgraduate community, and support systems available for doctoral research. The environment should foster your academic growth and provide ample resources for your research needs.

• Consider how your daily routine will impact your well-being and success. Think about living and working at the university you choose.
• Investigate the university’s library, laboratory, and other research facilities to ensure they meet your project's requirements.
• Pick a university solely based on its ranking or amenities without considering the specific research environment.
• Underestimate the importance of a supportive and collaborative research community.

Talk to potential supervisors

The student-supervisor relationship is crucial during a PhD. Supervisors guide your research journey, so it's essential to get this relationship right. Make sure to find out about potential supervisors before committing. Meet with them to discuss their approach to supervision, research interests, and expectations.

• Consider the kind of support and relationship you’ll need from a PhD supervisor.
• Find out about their previous students’ experiences and research outcomes.
• Contact every potential supervisor immediately with your research proposal; take the time to learn about them first.
• Assume that a renowned professor will automatically be the best fit for you without considering their mentoring style.

Think about your future

Envision yourself completing your PhD and consider your career aspirations. Opportunities for PhD graduates are diverse, including academic and non-academic pathways. Think about your options before starting. A PhD can open doors to high-impact roles in research, policy-making, industry, and more.

• Reflect on your career goals and the skills you want to develop during your doctorate.
• Explore various career support services and professional development opportunities available at your chosen institution.
• Assume a PhD will automatically lead to your desired job without considering other opportunities and skill-building activities.
• Neglect networking and building professional connections during your PhD years.

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Understand what a successful PhD research proposal needs to include and how to go about writing one for your project application.

Our guide explains how to contact a potential PhD supervisor to discuss your proposal or ideas with them before applying.

A checklist of the things you'll need to do when making an international PhD application, from meeting the entry requirements to sorting out your visa.

What documents you need for a complete study abroad application, what they are and what they should and should not include.

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