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PhD in Business Analytics Programs

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You’re a business analytics professional who aspires to become a university professor. You’re thinking of a PhD in Business Analytics , but wondering if it’s worth the effort. Use our PhD guide to evaluate timelines , coursework , and the dissertation process . Compare different types of business analytics doctorates . Learn if your experience matches up to typical admissions requirements . Explore funding options and employment avenues . Find answers to questions on online degrees and FAQ . Or jump ahead to listings of all the PhD in Business Analytics programs in the country.

What Are PhD in Business Analytics Programs?

A PhD in Business Analytics or a closely related field is a specialist doctorate focused on the intersection of original and groundbreaking research in applied statistics, analytics & business studies. It is almost always offered by a School of Business. Doctoral students who choose this pathway:

• Learn how to deploy sophisticated statistical & analytical techniques to address major corporate challenges
• Specialize in making complex, data-driven decisions in specific realms of business (e.g. marketing, finance, operations management, etc.)
• Become business analytics professors at universities and top-level researchers in the private sector

Can You Earn a PhD in Business Analytics?

Yes. Doctoral programs in business analytics exist, but they are academically-focused and research-driven. A PhD in Business Analytics is not a workplace qualification like an MS in Business Analytics or an MS in Data Science or a practical business administration degree like an MBA or DBA . Most PhD programs in our listings are specifically designed to help students become university professors.

Types of Business Analytics Doctorate Programs

Doctoral programs in this field tend to fall into two main categories: Business Analytics or Operations Management (or a combo of the two). Once you’ve highlighted a few programs, you can use the curriculum links in our listings to dig down into the coursework and explore faculty research interests.

PhD in Business Analytics

At the doctoral level, a PhD in Business Analytics has many of the same hallmarks as a PhD in Data Analytics . It will often involve high-level training in areas such as applied statistics, statistical programming, data mining, simulation, data science, optimization, and decision analysis. You’ll be required to apply all of those skills to a specific area of business research (e.g. marketing, economics, finance, operations, management, etc.). See the Dissertation section for examples of projects.

PhD in Operations Management

A PhD in Operations Management (OM) is focused on optimizing business processes from production through to distribution. Think of supply chains, operations planning & control, distribution networks, pricing, and inventory management. Using your skills in business analytics (see above), you could be challenged to develop theoretical models, conduct empirical studies, and run complex data analyses to find ways to improve these interconnected parts.

PhD in Business Information Technology (or Similar)

Some universities also offer “build your own” doctorates with an interdisciplinary feel. You’ll be able to combine coursework from the School of Business and technical departments. With an interdisciplinary doctorate, you can concentrate your research on whatever you please—operations management, information systems, business & data analytics, or even security & privacy.

Note: If none of these programs feel right, consider a PhD in Data Analytics . You may be able to customize your doctorate with corporate coursework (e.g. econometrics) and industry projects with the School of Business.

How Doctorates in Business Analytics Work: Curriculum & Dissertation

Degree structure.

Doctoral students go through 6 key stages to earn a PhD in Business Analytics—you have to finish one stage (e.g. core coursework) before you can progress to the next one (e.g. qualifying exam). On a full-time schedule, the entire doctorate might take 4-5 years.

Core Coursework

Qualifying/comprehensive exam, dissertation proposal, dissertation, dissertation defense.

• Year 1: Core coursework and first-year research papers. Assignment of a faculty mentor.
• Year 2: Core coursework, electives, second-year research papers, and the qualifying exam.
• Year 3: Any remaining coursework. Preparing research projects for publication. Dissertation proposal.
• Year 4: Dissertation work under the guidance of a dissertation advisor and advisory committee.
• Year 5: Dissertation work. Research papers & conference submissions. Dissertation defense.

Sample Curriculum

The first two years of your PhD in Business Analytics will contain a set of mandatory research & business courses. These credits are designed to equip you with all the skill sets you might need for your dissertation . Here are a few samples of real course titles from doctoral programs:

Research Methodology & Technical Skills

• Probability & Statistics
• Linear Algebra
• Applied Stochastic Process
• Multivariate Analysis
• Linear Programming
• Data Structures

Business Concerns

Operations Management

• Management Information Systems
• Microeconomics
• Information Analysis for Managerial Decisions
• Supply Chain Operations and Information

You can see how PhD programs in business analytics draw on high-level coursework from the Departments of Statistics & Computer Science and coursework from the School of Business. The mix will vary depending on the title & focus of the PhD. Visit the curriculum links in our listings to learn more about each program’s unique approach.

In addition to core coursework , your doctorate will almost always contain electives. You’ll be allowed to choose your own subjects and customize your degree to suit your research goals.

At the doctoral level, electives can be super-specialized. Here are a few examples of electives from PhD programs in Business Analytics & Operations Management:

Business Analytics

• Data Structure & Algorithms
• Machine Learning
• Markov Decision Processes
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Game Theory
• Scheduling Theory
• Service Operations

Once you’ve completed your core coursework , you’ll be required to pass a comprehensive exam. The exam is designed to test your knowledge and prepare you for top-tier research projects.

The qualifying exam for a PhD in Business Analytics can take a number of forms. For instance:

• At the University of Cincinnati, the PhD in Operations, Business Analytics, and Information Systems qualifying exam consists of a written exam and a oral presentation.
• At the University of Oregon, the PhD in Operations and Business Analytics qualifying exam involves a test and a second-year paper that must be presented at a departmental seminar series.

After you’ve passed the qualifying exam, you can focus on developing the idea for your dissertation under the supervision of a dissertation advisor/faculty mentor. You may wish to work on a research-based dissertation, which explores new theories & models, or a project-based dissertation, which involves exploring real-life business problems.

You’ll assemble these ideas into a proposal and present your proposal to a dissertation advisory committee. The committee will be composed of experienced faculty members and—occasionally—outside experts.   If the committee accepts your proposal, you can get to work on your dissertation.

A PhD dissertation is defined as a work of original research that makes a significant contribution to the theory & practice of a field. Your goal is break new ground in business analytics—new theories, new practices, and new data-driven approaches. 

Dissertation Titles

Here are a few examples of real-life PhD dissertation titles in business analytics & closely related fields:

• Revenue Maximization Using Product Bundling
• Estimating the Statistics of Operational Loss Through the Analyzation of a Time Series
• Performance Improvement Through Better Understanding of Supply Chain Resilience
• Managing Outsourcing Decisions: Government Policy, Firm Options, and the Economic Impact
• Applications of Revenue Management in Healthcare
• Three Essays on Optimization and Decision-Making Solutions in Retail Operations

In tandem with your dissertation, you may also be writing up research papers to submit to peer-reviewed journals and industry conferences.

The defense is the final stage of your PhD. You’ll be challenged to present your findings to the dissertation advisory committee and defend your research in an oral & visual presentation. The committee will then ask you questions and discuss your work.

If you have a strong dissertation advisor, you’ll be more than ready for the defense! You’ll know your research backwards and forwards and you’ll be prepped to answer likely questions. You can improve your odds even further by observing other student defenses, practicing with mock presentations, and researching the work of committee members.

PhD in Business Analytics: Admissions

Doctorate in business analytics: what it takes to get in.

PhD programs in business analytics are 1) rare; and 2) typically fully funded . That also means they’re extremely competitive! Some Schools of Business may only accept 2-3 candidates per year. Follow the admissions links in our listings to get a sense of the university’s expectations.

Not sure if you have what it takes? Take a moment to:

• Assess your application to see if you can compensate for weak spots (e.g. GPA) with strengths (e.g. research projects, teaching experience, published papers, etc.)
• Make sure that your research interests would be a good fit with the PhD program’s faculty, departments, and facilities (e.g. Operations Research Center)
• Talk to current PhD students and recent alumni about their experiences with admissions, research work, and employment after graduation

Degree Requirements

For a PhD in Business Analytics, universities will want to see candidates who have a degree in business or a related technical discipline (e.g. data analytics, data science, statistics, etc.). The standard GPA requirement is 3.0 GPA or higher.

• Bachelor’s Degree Entry:  A number of schools are willing to consider applicants with a bachelor’s degree. However, they may give preference to candidates with prior graduate-level coursework.
• Master’s Degree Entry:  Some doctoral programs in business analytics are only open to candidates with a master’s degree.

Are you a bachelor’s degree candidate who’s interested in a PhD with a master’s degree entry? Talk to the program coordinator. You may be able to earn a graduate degree at the same university before transferring into the PhD track.

Skills & Proficiencies

A PhD in Business Analytics or a closely related field is a highly technical degree, so universities will often want to see evidence of skills & proficiencies in:

• Calculus and linear algebra
• Computer programming
• Quantitative fields (e.g. maths, statistics, operation research, supply chain management, etc.)

But they will also be looking for skills that all academic professors must have, including:

• Oral & written competencies
• Teaching & research talents

General Requirements

In addition to your academic transcripts, be prepared to submit:

• GRE or GMAT scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• TOEFL scores for non-English speaking international applicants

In particular, universities will be looking for candidates with strong quant & analytical scores on the GRE or GMAT.

PhD in Business Analytics: Tuition & Funding

How to fund the phd.

Doctorates in business analytics can be grouped into 2 categories:

• Fully funded PhD programs
• Tuition-driven PhD programs

Fully funded PhD programs are the norm in this field—they’re designed to prepare graduates to become academic professors.

Fully Funded PhD Programs

A fully funded PhD in Business Analytics means that the university pays for your education. They will waive all tuition costs and provide you with a living stipend as compensation for teaching & research activities.

• Assistantships: Most PhD in Business Analytics students work as Teaching Assistants (TAs), Research Assistants (RAs), or course instructors during their studies.
• Scholarships & Fellowships: Some high-potential candidates will also receive additional monetary awards on top of the standard living stipend.

Talk to the PhD program coordinator to learn more about funding packages. You may (or may not) qualify for:

• Conference stipends, travel support, research-related expenses & other perks
• Campus housing
• University health insurance
• Fee waivers
• Summer fellowships & financial support
• Professional membership dues

Most universities will cover funding for Years 1-4 of your degree. With certain PhD programs, Year 5 support will be conditional on strong academic performance.

Tuition-Driven PhD Programs

You’ll occasionally run into a doctoral program in business analytics that is tuition-driven. That means the university expects you to pay for the degree by yourself. A PhD in this category could cost between $50,000-$96,000.

• Be very cautious about this route! If you can’t get into a fully funded PhD program, consider a master’s degree in a relevant field of interest (e.g. MS in Business Analytics ) or a more flexible doctorate.
• You don’t need a PhD in Business Analytics to work in an industry role. It’s only going to be useful if you wish to become a university professor or top-level researcher.

Online PhD in Business Analytics Programs

Can you earn an online phd in business analytics.

Yes—with a caveat. Capitol Technology University offers an Online PhD in Business Analytics and Data Science , but we would classify this more as an “industry” data science degree than an “academic” business analytics doctorate. And you will have to pay for it.

Why Are Online PhD Programs in Business Analytics Hard to Find?

Quality control. Top-tier research universities and high-ranking Schools of Business want to ensure that doctoral students:

• Take full advantage of all of their campus facilities (e.g. research centers, labs, and technical infrastructures)
• Learn how to teach undergraduates in actual classrooms
• Collaborate with faculty, fellow students, and their dissertation advisor on a regular, in-person basis
• Be present for seminars, workshops & networking events with visiting experts

We back them up on this matter. If you’re going to commit to a PhD in a niche topic like business analytics, choose one that is fully funded and on-campus.

Career Prospects for PhD in Business Analytics Graduates

As we mentioned, a PhD in Business Analytics or a closely related field is a super-specialized and research-focused degree. It will prepare you for a couple of roles:

• Assistant Professor or Post-Doc Position: You’ll be teaching business analytics at the university level to undergraduates.
• Senior Research Position: Some niche positions in fields like finance & economics will require top-level research skills (e.g. Senior Statistician).

However, you don’t need a doctorate in business analytics to pursue a senior-level position within the industry:

• Many analytics experts simply have an MS and industry certifications .
• Many managers & CEOs have an MBA or DBA .

PhD Business Analytics FAQ

What should i look for in a business analytics doctoral program.

Start with our program listings . You can use the curriculum & admissions links to evaluate your degree options and create a shortlist of likely candidates. Once you have some names in mind, consider the following factors:

• Funding Package: Almost all PhD programs will be fully funded , but some will have better benefits than others. Ask about perks like health insurance, travel stipends, fellowship awards, and the like.
• School of Business Reputation: A PhD in Business Analytics will almost always be offered by a School of Business. Look for Schools that are AACSB-accredited , nationally ranked, and well-regarded in the academic community.
• Department Reputations: Investigate each department that’s offering PhD coursework & electives. What kinds of research labs & facilities do they have? Are they working on industry partnerships with the School of Business? Are they exploring new frontiers in analytics?
• Faculty Expertise: Faculty profiles will be featured on the PhD program website. These people will be your mentors & advisors, so get to know them. Read through their bios, meet them for a virtual coffee, and learn more about their research interests.
• Career Preparation: What kinds of Teaching Assistantship (TA) opportunities will you be offered? Will you be able to submit your PhD research papers to academic journals? Will you be encouraged to present at major business & analytics conferences?
• Academic Placements: The vast majority of PhD graduates in business analytics will go on to teach in universities. So find out where alumni have ended up. Some PhD programs provide a list of recent academic placements.
• STEM Designation:  International students who wish to work in the States after graduation should check and see if the doctorate is a STEM-designated program . This designation is needed to extend the OPT period for students on an F-1 Visa.

You may also want to look up past winners of the  UPS George D. Smith Prize from INFORMS. This prize is given to an academic department or program that prepares students to be good practitioners of operations research, management science, or analytics.

What is a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)?

Like a PhD, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a terminal degree that includes a dissertation. However, the DBA focuses on applied research instead of original research. DBA students use existing practices and theories and apply them to real-world business problems. Examples of DBA offerings include:

• DBA in Business Intelligence
• DBA in Data Analytics
• DBA in Business Analytics

DBA vs. PhD

DBA students tend to be working professionals who want to explore an area of analytics or BI research that can be applied to their current jobs. They’re willing to pay for a 3-year doctorate that may be online or part-time. And they often secure consultancy & leadership positions within their industry.

PhD in Business Analytics students aspire to become academics, professors & top-level researchers. They’re willing to commit to 5 years of rigorous, in-person study and they’re happy to teach undergraduates, publish papers in academic journals, and live in a world of theoretical research.

What is AACSB Accreditation?

The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB) is a global non-profit association that provides specialized accreditation to Schools of Business.

• Schools of Business must go through a stringent assessment process to earn AACSB accreditation. The AACSB evaluates the School’s mission, faculty qualifications, curricula, and ability to provide quality programs.
• You can use the AACSB’s handy tool to search for AACSB-accredited schools and filter by location, delivery, format, and even field (e.g. Operations Management, Data Analytics, etc.).

What is a STEM Doctorate?

A STEM doctorate is typically defined as any PhD that contains at least 50% of coursework in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics.

• Are you an international student hoping to work in the States? Ask if the PhD has a “STEM designation” from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Students on an F-1 Visa can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation. With a STEM-designated degree, the OPT period can be extended from 12 months to 36 months.
• STEM programs often receive financial support from the government and private industries. That means universities may be able to offer more fully funded PhD programs in STEM fields.

Not all Business Analytics programs are STEM programs! For example, Pitt’s PhD in Business Analytics & Operations contains a lot of business coursework and is classified as a doctorate in Business Administration. Check with the PhD program coordinator before you make a choice.

Is a PhD in Business Analytics Worth It?

Only if it aligns with your career goals in research & academia. A PhD in Business Analytics or a closely related field is an intense, 5-year doctorate that prepares graduates for jobs as university professors & top-level researchers. It’s not designed for professionals who want a practical industry qualification.

Wondering whether to make the leap? Ask recent PhD graduates about their experiences. You’ll find them on LinkedIn, at industry conferences , and within faculty directories on university websites. Be ready to answer questions about your research interests & teaching aspirations. 

All Phd in Business Analytics Programs

University of south alabama.

Mitchell College of Business

Mobile, Alabama

Phd in Business Administration - Business Analytics Concentration

University of delaware.

Graduate College

Newark, Delaware

Ph.D. in Financial Services Analytics

Phd in financial services analytics (fsan), phd in hospitality business analytics, florida international university.

College of Business

Miami, Florida

PhD in Business Administration - Information Systems and Business Analytics

Georgia state university.

Robinson College of Business

Atlanta, Georgia

PhD in Business Administration & Digital Innovation - Data Science & Analytics

University of illinois at urbana-champaign.

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

Champaign, Illinois

PhD in Mathematics with a Concentration in Actuarial Science and Risk Analytics

Iowa state university.

Debbie and Jerry Ivy College of Business

PhD with a Specialization in Information Systems and Business Analytics

University of iowa.

Tippie College of Business

Iowa City, Iowa

Massachusetts

Bentley university.

McCallum Graduate School of Business

Waltham, Massachusetts

PhD in Business, Concentration in Business Analytics

Cuny bernard m baruch college.

Zicklin School of Business

New York, New York

PhD in Operations & Decision Analytics

University of cincinnati.

Carl H. Lindner College of Business

Cincinnati, Ohio

PhD in Operations, Business Analytics and Information Systems

University of oregon.

Division of Graduate Studies

Eugene, Oregon

PhD in Operations and Business Analytics

Pennsylvania, drexel university.

LeBow College of Business

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

PhD in Business - Business Analytics Specialization

University of pittsburgh-pittsburgh campus.

Katz Graduate School of Business

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

PhD in Business Analytics and Operations

The university of tennessee.

Haslam College of Business

Knoxville, Tennessee

PhD in Business Analytics & Statistics

Tippie College of Business

Phd in business analytics - phd programs.

PhD in Business Analytics

Data science. machine learning. optimization..

Data—namely, the generating of data—has exploded. All that data creates a great challenge. Businesses need better ways to get insights from the data. We help make that happen.

Here at Tippie, we’re a leader in business analytics research and education. In 2021 the Business Analytics Department won the prestigious UPS George D. Smith Prize that is awarded annually by INFORMS, the largest international association of analytics and operations research professionals.

For decades, we’ve been wrangling volumes of data, solving the most complex analytical puzzles. We did big data before big data was cool. And now that the world has caught up, we’re riding the front edge of an exciting wave.

Working hand-in-hand with our faculty, you’ll take your analytical and modeling skills to the next level through one of three specializations. Our grads are in high demand by academia, sure, but the private sector is also clamoring for business analytics PhDs. That means you can map out your own perfect-fit career path.

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STEM designation

The PhD in business analytics carries a STEM designation, which is particularly good news for international PhD candidates. Typically, after completing the degree, those in the U.S. on a student F1 visa have 12 months to work without an employer-sponsored visa. This period is called Optional Practical Training (OPT). The STEM designation extends OPT from 12 to 36 months.

Three specialization areas

Thanks to Tippie’s rich faculty roster, the PhD program in business analytics provides multiple areas in which you can choose to concentrate:

Information systems

Identify patterns and insights in data, like user behavior in Twitter or Facebook posts; identifying business competitors by mining webpages; and using health data to diagnose medical issues.

Faculty researching in this area include Patrick Fan , Nick Street , Kang Zhao , and Gautam Pant.

Quantitative methods

Develop tools to find optimal strategies to tackle mathematical problems, including "big data" problems. Quagmires like monitoring physician performance, identifying players to select in the NFL draft, and balancing cost and risk in trade.

Faculty in this area include Jeff Ohlmann , Sam Burer , Qihang Lin , Kurt Anstreicher , and Beste Basciftci .

Operations management

Use analytical tools to make data-driven business decisions, like routing vehicles to nail same-day delivery deadlines, strategizing a sugar cane harvest, or designing supply chains to mitigate risk.

Faculty studying operations include Ann Campbell , Barrett Thomas , Phil Jones , Jennifer Blackhurst , and Renato de Matta .

Big data, big market demand for analytics PhDs

Analytics expertise is in big demand at top universities and companies around the world.

Recent grads have joined as tenure-track assistant professor or post-doc at universities including:

• University of Arkansas-Little Rock
• University of Michigan
• University of Minnesota
• University of Tennessee
• University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

Others have taken positions as analysts and data scientists at companies including:

• Delta Air Lines

“Being able to leverage data to make really informed decisions gives a company an edge on competition. Analytics is becoming very key in managing a world-class supply chain, and it touches all aspects of a business.” Jen Blackhurst, Business Analytics Professor & Associate Dean for Graduate and Professional Programs Read Jen's story

Guided by great

When you come to a place like Tippie, full of faculty leading a fast-growing field, you might think they’re too busy to mentor students. Not so.

Iowa's PhD in business analytics maximizes mentorship and collaboration. Besides your designated advisor, you’ll meet with six more professors your first semester to talk about research interests you share. Leading thinkers and researchers—including INFORMS fellows and National Science Foundation award winners—will guide you from day one through graduation.

Thinkers like Ann Campbell , an international expert in vehicle routing. Or Kang Zhao , whose social network analysis has uncovered the secret to finding your perfect online date. Or Nick Street , a pioneer in using machine learning algorithms to make medical diagnoses. (Bonus: get more from our experts on our Twitter feed .)

Suffice to say, you’re in good hands. Correction: you’re in great hands.

See faculty research

If you've got a technical background, like engineering, math, and computer science, and want to develop analytics skills and solve real-world business problems, this is your place. Our program is small—just two to four students start each year—and accordingly competitive. We give preference to those with strong GPAs, prior graduate work, and research experience in a relevant field.

First, you need to meet the minimum PhD admission requirements . Other criteria for admission include:

Academic record

The minimum GPA is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. We also consider the rigor of your undergrad or master's institution(s) and grades you earned in quantitative courses.

GMAT or GRE score

There isn't a specific minimum score, but successful applicants typically have very strong quant and analytical scores.

Financial support

To ensure that you have more than enough time to focus on your research, each admitted student is guaranteed a  research-assistantship (RA) or fellowship funding for at least six fall and spring semesters during their first five years in the program.

Letters of recommendation

We're interested in their assessment of your strengths, weaknesses, motivation, and ability to succeed.

Statement of purpose

Content and overall seriousness are considered.

English proficiency

This requirement applies only to international applicants whose native language is not English. We follow the Graduate College's  English proficiency requirements . 

Curriculum and sample plan of study

The PhD in business analytics requires 72 semester hours of credit, in addition to a dissertation. The typical time to complete the degree is five years.

The plan of study is very flexible. You can take elective coursework in any year of the program. The outline below is a sample for demonstration purposes; we'll work with you to outline a plan of study that aligns with your goals.

Business Analytics Department Handbook

PhD in Business Analytics and Operations

• Academics Overview
• Collaborative Research
• Job Placements

The PhD Program in Business Analytics and Operations focuses on research in areas such as supply chain management, business analytics, operations, and project management. Research foci include methodology development, empirical analysis, and analytical modeling. Tools from a broad base such as operations research, probabilistic modeling, statistics, econometrics, and data mining are utilized to address real-life operational issues. Students are expected to develop a strong foundation and publish in top journals. The program mentors students with an apprenticeship model, providing an early start in independent research as well as joint work with faculty.

We are a small, highly selective program, and work closely with our students to make sure that those who join our program complete it successfully and are placed appropriately.

Katz offers a breadth of research topics–many students can find a home here. Recent PhD dissertation topics have included:

• Revenue Maximization Using Product Bundling
• Business Analytics for Non-profit Marketing and Online Advertising
• The Analytic Network Process Applied in Supply Chain Decisions, in Ethics, and in World Peace
• Modeling Patient Flow in a Network of Intensive Care Units (ICUs)
• Managing Outsourcing Decisions: Government Policy, Firm Options, and the Economic Impact
• Applications of Revenue Management in Healthcare

Our collaboration frequently results in articles that are published in top journals .

External Funding

Since 2010, our program has had very close ties with the Veterans Health Administration, and has engaged in a wide variety of healthcare analytics projects with them. FY 2018 funding on VHA projects exceeds $995,000.

We are a leading program with respect to placement. Over the last decade, all students who actively sought university positions obtained them, and our recent alumni were placed as faculty members at major universities in the U.S. and Canada, and in research positions in the industry. 

Year 1 Curriculum: Fall Term

An exploration of critical thinking.

Year 1 Curriculum: Spring and Summer Terms

A thorough examination of research methods.

Year 2 Curriculum: Fall Term

A continued study in critical thinking and research methods.

Year 2 Curriculum: Spring Term

A further dive into major concentrations, critical thinking, and research methods.

Year 2 Curriculum: Summer Term

A comprehensive independent study.

Year 3 Curriculum: Fall, Spring, and Summer Terms

Fully concentrated work on dissertation and service as teaching assistant.

Curriculum: Years 4 and 5

Teach and enter the job market to defend your dissertation.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

My advisors unselfishly devoted their time and energy to mentor me, but also gave me the freedom to pursue the ideas I was curious about and develop myself as an independent researcher. I could have not asked for a better start to my career than my time as a PhD student at Katz.

Coughlin Sesquicentennial Assistant Professor of Marketing at Boston College

If you’re naturally curious, observing phenomena, and wondering when they occur and what drives them, a PhD can let that curiosity become your full-time job.

is Gerald I. Susman Professor in Sustainability Professor at Penn State University

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PhD The Stevens Doctoral Program

Join a community of bold thinkers.

The Stevens Doctoral Program at Chicago Booth is the top destination for analytical, intellectually curious individuals who want to earn a doctorate in business from one of the best business PhD programs in the world.

As a PhD student at Chicago Booth, you will explore and cultivate your research interests from day one—wherever they lead you. In partnership with our distinguished faculty , you will develop your ability to conduct groundbreaking research. You’ll graduate with a business PhD and the tools to achieve academic and professional success.

Video Transcript

Baris Ata (00:00): When I came here, it felt like, "Now I'm in the major leagues." I realized how high the standards are.

Jane L. Risen (00:09): We're the oldest PhD program within a business school, which is pretty extraordinary to think of sort of how long ago the recognition was there that we wanted to be training not just business leaders in practice, but to be training the future leaders of academic discipline.

Ray Ball (00:26): So I arrived in 1966. Oh, it was marvelous. The place just crackled with ideas and open discussion, and I ended up throwing out all the ideas I came with.

Ann L. McGill (00:35): What I especially liked about learning things here is this is an interdisciplinary school, so you didn't have to dive in a silo. You can wrap your arms around huge areas.

Marianne Bertrand (00:46): What is special is that we are part of a business school, training PhD students across a range of disciplines, not just economics or finance, which we deploy in the Economics Department, but also students are doing psychology, operation research.

Ray Ball (00:59): At Chicago, the ideas were the authorities, not the people, and they were all up for grabs.

Amir Sufi (01:06): What we're trying to create here is people who produce knowledge, not just consume it. And that's the real challenge I think of PhD education.

Ana-Maria Tenekedjieva (01:15): I was never told at any point that, "Oh, this is not real finance. This question is too outside of the box." On the contrary, it was always, "You should do what you want to do, and we're going to think about placement once the paper is ready."

Jane L. Risen (01:32): You don't make any assumptions. You question everything.

Pradeep K. Chintagunta (01:35): It's not enough just to know what other people have done. It's also important to know what needs to be done next. To be able to do that, you need to be able to ask questions beyond the questions that have been asked in the previous literature or in the previous knowledge that's already out there.

Jeffrey R. Russell (01:53): When you're going to seminars here, or watching my colleagues talk in the hallways, you'll often see them in what look like very contentious battles. But really, they're just after, "What's the right answer?" When PhD students come here, they are able to sort of bring that into their own souls, and I think that really pushes them then to sort of be the best possible researcher that they can.

Ana-Maria Tenekedjieva (02:12): Chicago Booth is known for its quite aggressive questioning style. I think that we get a little bit of a bad rap. There is a point to the aggressive questioning, and it is to clarify the idea. In Chicago Booth the spirit is be tough on the idea, not on the person.

Amir Sufi (02:30): Throughout the world, we're appreciating more and more how influential research can be. I think our PhD students going forward will increasingly be placed in positions, both in scholarship and in government and in business, where they can have major influence.

Ray Ball (02:48): So the fact that this is the oldest doctoral program in business, that it has been going for 100 years, gives some indication of the commitment of this school to training people. We still have those same values, and so it's always going to generate people who change the world, who change the way we think. I can't tell you at this point how that will happen. That's exactly the idea. New people come in with new ideas, and they learn how to implement them in the school, and they change the way we think about the world. And that's going to keep going.

PhD in Business at a Glance

The Stevens Program is highly competitive—and highly rewarding. Approximately 20–25 new PhD students matriculate each fall from an applicant pool of more than 1,000, and our graduates are highly sought after at the world's most elite institutions of higher learning, in government, and at leading global businesses.

Our program is a full-time program that typically takes about five years to complete. PhD students can apply for one of our seven dissertation areas  or three joint PhD programs.

Explore Our Dissertation Areas and Joint PhD Programs

Our program gives you the flexibility to meet your intellectual and academic goals. We have seven doctoral dissertation areas, as well as three joint PhD programs.

Join Our Research Community

In collaboration with faculty and fellow students, you’ll conduct innovative research and prepare for a successful career.

How to Apply for and Fund Your PhD in Business

Explore phd admissions.

Earn your PhD in one of the best business PhD programs in the world. Here’s how to join our community of bold thinkers.

Attend a PhD Admissions Event

Join us at an information session or recruiting forum to learn more about the Stevens Doctoral Program at Chicago Booth.

Explore Financial Aid

At Chicago Booth, PhD students receive a tuition grant, a stipend, student health insurance, a computer or computer subsidy, and access to research and travel funding.

Meet Our Alumni and Job Market Candidates

Discover our alumni success.

For 100 years, Chicago Booth has been a proven training ground for the next generation of leading professionals in academia, government, and industry.

See Our PhD Job Market Candidates

See the Stevens Doctoral Program's current job market candidates—the next generation of researchers who will shape theory and practice in business and beyond.

Discover UChicago

Discover UChicago is a two-day program that introduces third-year undergraduates to the prospect of pursuing a graduate degree at UChicago and other institutions alike. At the event, Stevens Doctoral Program representatives will shed light on the program and application process, as well as navigating academic life at Chicago Booth.

Celebrating 100 Years of Pioneering Research

Since 1920, our faculty, alumni, and students have been driving the evolution of modern research in a wide range of disciplines.

On April 11, 2024, scholars in financial economics gathered to share ongoing research in a series of alumni and student presentations as part of a commemorative event dedicated to our late colleague, Yiran Fan.

Stories from Our Community

Measuring preferences for privacy.

Current PhD student Tesary Lin’s passion for economics and behavioral science has led her to develop a new incentive framework for businesses that want to use consumer data to inform managerial decisions, while respecting consumers’ privacy preferences.

A PhD for Social Impact

A passion for travel, social impact, and wanting to "dig deeper" inspired current student Gülin Tuzcuoğlu to pursue a PhD in operations research.

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Take a Virtual Tour

If you still have questions after reviewing our doctorate in business FAQ , please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Harvard Business Analytics Program / Program Overview

Harvard Business Analytics Program

The Harvard Business Analytics Program is offered through a collaboration between Harvard Business School (HBS), the John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), and the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS).

Designed for aspiring and established leaders in any industry, the program leverages a rigorous cross-disciplinary curriculum to help students not just analyze data but also understand it, translate it, and incorporate it into strategy at the top levels of their organizations. Students benefit from world-class instruction in courses designed by esteemed Harvard faculty and collaborate with diverse peers in highly interactive online classes. In addition, students attend two in-person immersions hosted at Harvard Business School, where they formulate solutions to real-world business scenarios and develop a network of data-minded business leaders. Students emerge from the program poised to advance into analytics-focused leadership roles and drive disruptive innovation through data.

Program Structure

6 Core Courses

Online, eight weeks each

Online, two weeks each

2 Immersions

On campus, three days each

Class cohorts begin four times per year in January, April, July, and October. The program can be completed in nine months.

Program Fees

The total fees for the Harvard Business Analytics Program is $51,500.

Program fees will be paid incrementally each term based on the number of courses taken. Financial aid is not available for certificate programs.

Note that all quoted rates are based on the 2019 – 2020 academic year and are subject to change without notice.

Curriculum and Learning Outcomes

Designed for experienced professionals who are realizing the impact of data and analytics on business strategy and operations, the Harvard Business Analytics Program explores new ways to analyze, interpret, and take advantage of data to drive competitive business advantages.

Courses and Seminars

• Digital Strategy and Innovation
• Programming and Data Systems
• Leadership and People Analytics
• Operations and Supply Chain Management
• Foundations of Quantitative Analysis
• Data-Driven Marketing
• Data Science Pipeline and Critical Thinking
• Leadership, Innovation, and Change

Read full descriptions of each Harvard Business Analytics Program course.

Learning Outcomes

The Harvard Business Analytics Program helps students build capabilities in technical, analytical, and operational areas. As a student, you will

• sharpen your core data analysis and management skills;
• explore emerging technologies and practices in next-generation analytics, such as blockchain, digital strategy, and AI/ML; and
• learn how to interpret your findings and use them to uncover valuable business insights.

Learning Experience

Attend weekly live classes hosted in an interactive online classroom.

Complete coursework on your time via web or mobile app.

Attend on-campus immersions to network and apply new skills firsthand.

Learn more about the Harvard Business Analytics Program learning experience.

World-Renowned Faculty

Study with top faculty members from HBS, SEAS, and FAS who are accomplished leaders and innovators in their fields.

Meet the faculty members and learn more about their accomplishments.

Admissions Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required
• No minimum experience (however, curriculum is designed for experienced professionals)
• Proof of English language proficiency
• World Education Services transcript evaluation (for international applicants only)

Explore the full breakdown of admissions guidelines.

Application Requirements

• Transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended (unofficial transcripts are accepted)
• At least one letter of recommendation, preferably from a professional contact (maximum of two letters accepted)
• Current professional resume
• One essay explaining your objectives and goals as they relate to attending this program
• Application fee of $75

View the full requirements and upcoming application deadlines.

Take the Next Step

Go to your application now  or if you have questions, contact your enrollment counselor at  +1-855-624-8222  or [email protected].

Get More Information

Smart. Open. Grounded. Inventive. Read our Ideas Made to Matter.

Which program is right for you?

Through intellectual rigor and experiential learning, this full-time, two-year MBA program develops leaders who make a difference in the world.

Earn your MBA and SM in engineering with this transformative two-year program.

A rigorous, hands-on program that prepares adaptive problem solvers for premier finance careers.

A 12-month program focused on applying the tools of modern data science, optimization and machine learning to solve real-world business problems.

Combine an international MBA with a deep dive into management science. A special opportunity for partner and affiliate schools only.

A doctoral program that produces outstanding scholars who are leading in their fields of research.

Bring a business perspective to your technical and quantitative expertise with a bachelor’s degree in management, business analytics, or finance.

Apply now and work for two to five years. We'll save you a seat in our MBA class when you're ready to come back to campus for your degree.

Executive Programs

The 20-month program teaches the science of management to mid-career leaders who want to move from success to significance.

A full-time MBA program for mid-career leaders eager to dedicate one year of discovery for a lifetime of impact.

A joint program for mid-career professionals that integrates engineering and systems thinking. Earn your master’s degree in engineering and management.

Non-degree programs for senior executives and high-potential managers.

A non-degree, customizable program for mid-career professionals.

PhD Program

Program overview.

Now Reading 1 of 4

Rigorous, discipline-based research is the hallmark of the MIT Sloan PhD Program. The program is committed to educating scholars who will lead in their fields of research—those with outstanding intellectual skills who will carry forward productive research on the complex organizational, financial, and technological issues that characterize an increasingly competitive and challenging business world.

Start here.

Learn more about the program, how to apply, and find answers to common questions.

Admissions Events

Check out our event schedule, and learn when you can chat with us in person or online.

Start Your Application

Visit this section to find important admissions deadlines, along with a link to our application.

Click here for answers to many of the most frequently asked questions.

PhD studies at MIT Sloan are intense and individual in nature, demanding a great deal of time, initiative, and discipline from every candidate. But the rewards of such rigor are tremendous:  MIT Sloan PhD graduates go on to teach and conduct research at the world's most prestigious universities.

PhD Program curriculum at MIT Sloan is organized under the following three academic areas: Behavior & Policy Sciences; Economics, Finance & Accounting; and Management Science. Our nine research groups correspond with one of the academic areas, as noted below.

MIT Sloan PhD Research Groups

Behavioral & policy sciences.

Economic Sociology

Institute for Work & Employment Research

Organization Studies

Technological Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Strategic Management

Economics, Finance & Accounting

Accounting  

Management Science

Information Technology

System Dynamics  

Those interested in a PhD in Operations Research should visit the Operations Research Center .  

PhD Program Structure

Additional information including coursework and thesis requirements.

MIT Sloan Predoctoral Opportunities

MIT Sloan is eager to provide a diverse group of talented students with early-career exposure to research techniques as well as support in considering research career paths.

Rising Scholars Conference

The fourth annual Rising Scholars Conference on October 25 and 26 gathers diverse PhD students from across the country to present their research.

Now Reading 2 of 4

The goal of the MIT Sloan PhD Program's admissions process is to select a small number of people who are most likely to successfully complete our rigorous and demanding program and then thrive in academic research careers. The admission selection process is highly competitive; we aim for a class size of nineteen students, admitted from a pool of hundreds of applicants.

What We Seek

• Outstanding intellectual ability
• Excellent academic records
• Previous work in disciplines related to the intended area of concentration
• Strong commitment to a career in research

MIT Sloan PhD Program Admissions Requirements Common Questions

Dates and Deadlines

The 2025 application for admission is live and can be accessed here . The deadline for submission of all materials is December 1, 2024.

More information on program requirements and application components

Students in good academic standing in our program receive a funding package that includes tuition, medical insurance, and a fellowship stipend and/or TA/RA salary. We also provide a new laptop computer and a conference travel/research budget.

Funding Information

Throughout the year, we organize events that give you a chance to learn more about the program and determine if a PhD in Management is right for you.

PhD Program Events

Docnet recruiting forum at university of minnesota.

We will be joining the DocNet consortium for an overview of business academia and a recruitment fair at University of Minnesota, Carlson School of Management.

September 25 PhD Program Overview

During this webinar, you will hear from the PhD Program team and have the chance to ask questions about the application and admissions process.

DocNet Recruiting Forum - David Eccles School of Business

MIT Sloan PhD Program will be joining the DocNet consortium for an overview of business academia and a recruitment fair at Utah, David Eccles School of Business.

October PhD Program Overview

Complete PhD Admissions Event Calendar

Unlike formulaic approaches to training scholars, the PhD Program at MIT Sloan allows students to choose their own adventure and develop a unique scholarly identity. This can be daunting, but students are given a wide range of support along the way - most notably having access to world class faculty and coursework both at MIT and in the broader academic community around Boston.

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Profiles of our current students

MIT Sloan produces top-notch PhDs in management. Immersed in MIT Sloan's distinctive culture, upcoming graduates are poised to innovate in management research and education.

Academic Job Market

Doctoral candidates on the current academic market

Academic Placements

Graduates of the MIT Sloan PhD Program are researching and teaching at top schools around the world.

view recent placements 

MIT Sloan Experience

Now Reading 4 of 4

The PhD Program is integral to the research of MIT Sloan's world-class faculty. With a reputation as risk-takers who are unafraid to embrace the unconventional, they are engaged in exciting disciplinary and interdisciplinary research that often includes PhD students as key team members.

Research centers across MIT Sloan and MIT provide a rich setting for collaboration and exploration. In addition to exposure to the faculty, PhD students also learn from one another in a creative, supportive research community.

Throughout MIT Sloan's history, our professors have devised theories and fields of study that have had a profound impact on management theory and practice.

From Douglas McGregor's Theory X/Theory Y distinction to Nobel-recognized breakthroughs in finance by Franco Modigliani and in option pricing by Robert Merton and Myron Scholes, MIT Sloan's faculty have been unmatched innovators.

This legacy of innovative thinking and dedication to research impacts every faculty member and filters down to the students who work beside them.

Faculty Links

• Accounting Faculty
• Economic Sociology Faculty
• Finance Faculty
• Information Technology Faculty
• Institute for Work and Employment Research (IWER) Faculty
• Marketing Faculty
• Organization Studies Faculty
• System Dynamics Faculty
• Technological Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Strategic Management (TIES) Faculty

Student Research

“MIT Sloan PhD training is a transformative experience. The heart of the process is the student’s transition from being a consumer of knowledge to being a producer of knowledge. This involves learning to ask precise, tractable questions and addressing them with creativity and rigor. Hard work is required, but the reward is the incomparable exhilaration one feels from having solved a puzzle that had bedeviled the sharpest minds in the world!” -Ezra Zuckerman Sivan Alvin J. Siteman (1948) Professor of Entrepreneurship

Sample Dissertation Abstracts - These sample Dissertation Abstracts provide examples of the work that our students have chosen to study while in the MIT Sloan PhD Program.

We believe that our doctoral program is the heart of MIT Sloan's research community and that it develops some of the best management researchers in the world. At our annual Doctoral Research Forum, we celebrate the great research that our doctoral students do, and the research community that supports that development process.

The videos of their presentations below showcase the work of our students and will give you insight into the topics they choose to research in the program.

Attention To Retention: The Informativeness of Insiders’ Decision to Retain Shares

2024 PhD Doctoral Research Forum Winner - Gabriel Voelcker

Watch more MIT Sloan PhD Program  Doctoral Forum Videos

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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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Our faculty members are uncompromisingly committed to student success

Students pursue an intensely focused, highly energized academic experience in their chosen discipline

Recognized experts in their fields, our faculty continually publish groundbreaking research

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Learn more about our application materials and what we look for in a candidate

Our graduates pursue tenure-track academic placements at top institutions around the world

Stanford GSB PhD Program

Discover a focus and intensity greater than you may have thought possible. As a PhD student at Stanford Graduate School of Business, you will be inspired and challenged to explore novel ideas and complex questions.

Fall 2025 applications  are now open. The application deadline is December 1, 2024 at 5:00 PM PST.

Become an Outstanding Scholar

Our PhD Program is designed to develop outstanding scholars for careers in research and teaching at leading academic institutions throughout the world. You will embark on a challenging and meaningful experience, focusing your academic study in one of seven distinct fields within the PhD degree program.

Is a PhD Right for You?

Strong PhD candidates are full of ideas and curiosity, with a passion and aptitude for research. If you’re prepared to embark on a rigorous career in research and develop your full potential, we invite you to explore the possibilities of a PhD in business. Admitted students receive full fellowships for their doctoral studies.

Faculty Publications

Dollar safety and the global financial cycle, interest rate risk in banking, monetary tightening and u.s. bank fragility in 2023: mark-to-market losses and uninsured depositor runs, phd student voices.

Benjamin Tremblay-Auger

Pauline Liang

Mohamed Hussein

Lina Lukyantseva

School news, stanford economist guido imbens wins nobel in economic sciences, susan athey named president of american economic association, teaching through a pandemic: students recognize two faculty members for their efforts, diversifying the pool of phd students will require systemic change.

Gain valuable research experience and training in a two-year, pre-doctoral opportunity at Stanford University.

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• Degrees and Programs

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Analytics and Data Science

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Earn a doctorate degree in business analytics and data science, advance both your scholarly research and your career

In a competitive world, success depends on finding and maintaining an edge – and that requires making data-driven decisions. Organizations in an ever-expanding array of industries – from sports, to health care, to cybersecurity – are seeking out professionals with the expertise needed to utilize data effectively.

The Ph.D. in Business Analytics and Data Science program is designed to prepare accomplished professionals for senior positions in either public or private sectors. The mission of the Doctor of Philosophy in Business Analytics and Data Science degree is to enable professionals from the field to understand and evaluate the scope and impact of decision sciences and associated technology from the institutional as well as from an industry and global perspective. The program will provide the student an academic environment to support the development of high-level critical thinking and leadership skills as they relate to management and decision sciences, to develop high-level decision science technical skills, and to provide doctoral level research experience allowing innovative and practical contributions to the management and decision sciences body of knowledge.

Why Capitol?

Learn around your busy schedule

Our low residency requirement takes in consideration the time commitment of your established career.

Online format

The majority of our business analytics and data science doctorate is offered online.

Our classes are taught by working professionals

Capitol’s faculty are working professionals in the field – subject matter experts who apply their knowledge on a daily basis and are up to speed on emerging developments.

Key Faculty

Associate Dean

Adjunct Professor

Dissertation Chair

Career Opportunities

Market demand for business analytics and data science (PhD)

You’ll have the necessary credentials to lead local, national or global organizations & provide expert guidance on using organizational information assets.

A degree that is relevant to any and every organization

This doctorate will teach how analytics helps shape strategic plans in whatever business you are involved in.

Degree Details

This program may be completed with a minimum of 60 credit hours, but may require additional credit hours, depending on the time required to complete the dissertation/publication research. Students who are not prepared to defend after completion of the 60 credits will be required to enroll in RSC-899, a one-credit, eight-week continuation course. Students are required to be continuously enrolled/registered in the RSC-899 course until they successfully complete their dissertation defense/exegesis.

The Doctorate degree in Business Analytics and Data Science is a total of 54-66 credits, which covers a literature review, professional research and theory, professional ethics and leadership, dissertation preparation, and other topics. Students can select from several electives based on their personal focus.

Doctor of Philosophy - 54 credits

Please check with an Academic Advisor to confirm degree requirements and program electives.

Educational Objectives:

• Students will integrate alternate, divergent, or contradictory perspectives or ideas fully within Decision Science.
• Students will present scholarly data presentations via appropriate communication channels.
• Students will demonstrate advanced knowledge and competencies in data handling.
• Students will analyze various information to draw data-supported conclusions.
• Students will execute a plan to complete a significant piece of scholarly research in data analytics.
• Students will synthesize various sources of data to produce robust conclusions.
• Students will apply data analysis to determine the validity of data
• Students will compare data to determine the trends and spurious results

Learning Outcomes:

Upon graduation:

• Graduates will evaluate the legal, social, economic, environmental, and ethical impact of actions within business and data science, and demonstrate advanced knowledge and competency to integrate the results in the leadership decision-making process.
• Graduates will demonstrate the highest mastery of traditional and technological techniques of communicating ideas effectively and persuasively.
• Graduates will evaluate complex problems, synthesize divergent/alternative/contradictory perspectives and ideas fully, and develop advanced solutions to business analytic and decision science challenges.
• Graduates will contribute to the body of knowledge through data analysis.
• Graduates will apply leading edge theories to data analysis.
• Graduates will disseminate knowledge to their peers from research.
• Graduates will lead the development of data analysis to the broader community.

Tuition & Fees

Tuition rates are subject to change.

The following rates are in effect for the 2024-2025 academic year, beginning in Fall 2024 and continuing through Summer 2025:

• The application fee is $100
• The per-credit charge for doctorate courses is $950. This is the same for in-state and out-of-state students.
• Retired military receive a $50 per credit hour tuition discount
• Active duty military receive a $100 per credit hour tuition discount for doctorate level coursework.
• Information technology fee $40 per credit hour.
• High School and Community College full-time faculty and full-time staff receive a 20% discount on tuition for doctoral programs.

Find additional information for 2024-2025 doctorate tuition and fees.

I was drawn to the practical and goal-oriented approach, which also seemed like the natural next step in my academic career. Ultimately, my aim is to pursue teaching and research work in the future.

-James Tankard PhD in Business Analytics and Data Science

Need more info, or ready to apply?

PhD in Operations, Business Analytics, and Information Systems

The University of Cincinnati Department of Operations, Business Analytics and Information Systems (OBAIS) seeks exceptional students with interest in a wide range of research topics who seek careers as academic researchers, including university professors or applied researchers in academic settings such as research hospitals or public labs and research institutions.

The department's PhD program admits students into its three disciplines, but our students often work on multi-disciplinary problems with both our OBAIS faculty and with faculty from other areas.

• Business Analytics focuses primarily on three methodological aspects of analytics: applied statistics, simulation, and optimization and decision analysis. Our faculty develop, improve, and apply cutting-edge statistical, simulation, and optimization methods such as data mining, longitudinal and nonparametric analysis, discrete-event and agent-based computer simulation, integer programming, and stochastic optimization to a wide variety of problems and industries.
• Information Systems focuses primarily on behavioral and technical/computational issues. Lindner's Information Systems faculty members research topics related to how humans adopt, use, and adapt to technology, how organizational software can use information more effectively, and how databases and other technical systems might be improved, automated, or deployed more effectively.
• Operations Management  focuses on research into how production and service systems transform inputs into outputs. This includes a diverse set of topics, such as inventory and supply chain management, transportation networks, service operations, quality, healthcare delivery systems, operations strategy, and developing policies and processes for matching capacity with demand.

OBAIS PhD graduates have been highly successful in both academic and academic-style industrial positions. Our course work includes mathematical programming, stochastic models, and applied statistics along with seminars on the latest developments in the field. Our students are encouraged to take courses from across the University of Cincinnati that combine to best meet their unique educational goals.

While each student enters with a unique background, a typical sequence of matriculation is as follows:

First, our students take 18-24 months of coursework in order to learn advanced research methods as well as deep topical content, such as fundamental concepts and contemporary theory, in their fields.

During the second year of their study, our students undertake the second-year paper, which is usually each student's first attempt at executing a scientific research project from start to finish. This is done under the close supervision of one or more of our faculty advisors.

After all the coursework is completed, our students sit for the written portion of their comprehensive exams. This often occurs during the summer after their second year of classes. The oral portion of the comprehensive exam is to present the second-year paper. This step typically happens within a few months of the written exam. Upon passing the comprehensive exam, our PhD students enter into candidacy and each student begins working on his or her dissertation.

The dissertation is a large work of original research performed primarily by the PhD student with guidance from his or her dissertation chairperson and committee. Typically, between six and 15 months into the dissertation work, students defend their dissertation proposals, which describe the work being carried out, before their committees. Then, upon completion of the dissertation work, students defend their dissertations, again in front of the committee. The dissertation work normally takes two to three years, making the entire program typically require four to five years of full-time work. The OBAIS department does not accept part-time doctoral students.

Each PhD student in Operations, Business Analytics, and Information Systems works individually and closely with a faculty advisor to develop a personalized curriculum uniquely suited to help him or her learn the methods and core knowledge needed to begin a productive and rewarding research career. No two students' research interests are identical so, within the overall structure of the Lindner College of Business PhD program, we seek to customize our doctoral students' programs of courses and matriculation schedules in order to best meet their individual needs and aspirations.

Our academic environment is collegial, engaging, dynamic, and supportive. Those who commit to their doctoral studies will find an extensive and dedicated community to help ensure their academic and professional success. From our cohort of PhD students to intellectually engaged faculty to helpful staff, the community works together to foster student success.

Many of our faculty are leaders in their respective research fields. They have published extensively in peer-reviewed, scientific journals, have won awards for their research and graduate-student teaching and have been invited to serve on the boards of key academic professional societies. They also author industry-leading textbooks and engaged with industry to support businesses' use of analytics and advanced research methods to solve real-world problems. Because of this vigorous intellectual and community engagement, the OBAIS department has been recognized as one of the university's Centers of Excellence through the State of Ohio Academic Excellence Program.

The city of Cincinnati is a metropolitan hub that is home to more Fortune 500 companies per capita than New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles. Seven Fortune 500 companies have their global headquarters located less than three miles from the University of Cincinnati's campus. The city is home to vibrant entertainment and cultural opportunities and offers a variety of affordable living options.

Recent graduates of Lindner's PhD in Operations, Business Analytics, and Information Systems program have accepted positions at:

• Drexel University
• Elon University
• Ivey Business School
• Johns Hopkins University
• Kansas University
• Lehigh University
• McGill University
• Miami University
• Michigan State University
• Stevens Institute of Technology
• Towson University
• University of Dayton
• University of Louisville
• Xavier University

Names of Lindner faculty appear in bold. Names of Lindner PhD candidates are underlined.

Li, S., Zhu, X ., Chen, Y., & Liu, D . (2021) “PAsso: an R Package for Assessing Partial Association between Ordinal Variables” (Accepted by The R Journal).

Rea, David , Craig Froehle , Suzanne Masterson , Brian Stettler, Greg Fermann, Arthur Pancioli, (2021) "Unequal but Fair: Incorporating Distributive Justice in Operational Allocation Models,"  Production and Operations Management , 30(7), 2304-2320.

Green Brittany , Lian Heng, Yan Yu , Tianhai Zu . (2021). “Ultra high‐dimensional semiparametric longitudinal data analysis”, Biometrics , 77(3), 903-913.

Li Z, Wang S, Li W, Zhu T, Fan Z , Xie X., (2021). “Droplet dynamics in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell flow field design with 3D geometry”, International Journal of Hydrogen Energy , 46(31),16693-16707.

Jablokow, K. W., Zhu, X ., & Matson, J. V. (2020). “Exploring the diversity of creative prototyping in a global online learning environment”, International Journal of Design Creativity and Innovation , 8(2).

Schneider, M. J., Jagpal, S., Gupta, S., Li, S . , and Yu, Y . (2018). A Flexible Method for Protecting Marketing Data: An Application to Point-of-Sale Data", Marketing Science , 37(1), 153-171.

Windeler, J ., Chudoba, K., and Sundrup, R . (2017). Getting Away from Them All: Managing Exhaustion from Social Interaction with Telework. Journal of Organizational Behavior , 38(7): 977-995.

Sundrup, R., Froehle, C ., & Windeler, J.  (2017). Evaluating Effects of Information Incongruence and Gender on Online Review Helpfulness. Proceedings of the 23th Americas Conference on Information Systems, August 10-12, 2017, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.

Schneider, M. J., Jagpal, S., Gupta, S., Li, S ., and Yu, Y. (2017). Protecting Customer Data: Marketing with Second-Party Data, International Journal of Research in Marketing , 34(3), 593-603.

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Most Affordable Business Analytics PhD Programs

A Business Analytics PhD provides gateways into both research-centric environments and leadership roles in the private sector’s industry landscape.

As the field of business analytics grows, PhD programs specifically focused on business analytics are becoming increasingly specialized, catering to a variety of professional goals.

The expanding array of programs complicates the decision-making process. In response, the TechGuide research team has put together a brand-new list of rankings for the most cost-effective Business Analytics PhD programs.

Ranking by Affordability using DSCA-Certified Programs

This year’s rankings for affordability account for both the overall cost of tuition and the quality of education offered. To be considered for our rankings, each Business Analytics PhD program must also be accredited by the Data Science Council of America (DSCA).

Accreditation from the DSCA requires programs to fulfill stringent criteria related to education in data science and analytics, focusing on student learning outcomes and future employability.

Here is this year’s list of the most affordable Business Analytics PhD programs.

Most Affordable Business Analytics PhD Degree Programs for 2024

University of cincinnati, university of south alabama, capitol technology university, university of pittsburgh, the university of tennessee, knoxville, the university of iowa, drexel university, related resources.

• Most Affordable Data Science PhD Programs
• Most Affordable Master’s in Business Analytics ( Campus-Based)
• Most Affordable Online Master’s in Business Analytics
• Complete List of Affordable Master’s in Data Science Degrees
• Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Data Science Degrees

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• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
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Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

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The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program is designed for experienced professionals who are seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the principles that govern global business.

The program emphasizes advanced decision-making and leadership skills, as well as in-depth knowledge of theory and applied research. Doctoral students have the opportunity to explore the challenges facing business today, including corporate social responsibility, globalization, and managing change.

In keeping with our commitment to working adult professionals, we have one of the few doctoral programs in Southern California that allows students to complete their studies in a synchronous hybrid or online format.

DBA Program Description

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is designed for candidates who, having already completed a Masters program, are looking to further develop their practical and theoretical knowledge of the principles that govern global business. Our DBA program emphasizes advanced decision-making and leadership skills as well as in-depth knowledge of theory and applied research.

Students have the opportunity to explore challenges facing business today, including corporate social responsibility, globalization, and managing change. In keeping with our commitment to working adult professionals, we have one of the few doctoral programs in Southern California that allows students to complete their doctoral studies in a hybrid or online format.

The performance outcomes which are required for the completion of the program include class participation, response to discussion questions, writing research papers, group assignments, case study analyses, quizzes, Comprehensive Learning Assessments, and a Doctoral Dissertation.

Stackable Certificate Pathway

Why choose the Stackable Certificate Pathway?

• Go at your own pace, with flexible options as you complete each level
• No additional time
• No additional cost
• Graduate with your DBA and two Doctoral Certificates, including concentrations in STEM
• Doctoral Certificates can provide opportunities for professional advancement prior to completion of DBA program

DBA Program Learning Outcomes

Westcliff University produces capable and knowledgeable students who manifest an understanding of work and careers and an ability to adapt quickly to the expectations of employers and the work environment.

The Doctor of Business Administration learning outcomes prepare students to:

Program requirements.

The minimum academic requirements to apply to the Doctor of Business Administration Degree Program: An applicant with a Master-level degree and a 2.5 GPA from a regionally or nationally accredited institution can apply to Westcliff University. Master’s degrees obtained outside of the United States will only be accepted if they have been evaluated by a member in good standing with the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or another nationally recognized credentialing service. In this case, the listed U.S. degree equivalency will be used.

In order to graduate with a concentration, students must take four (4) courses as indicated below under each concentration.

Business Intelligence and Data Analytics Strategic Leadership in the 21st Century Information Technology Management Applied Computer Science

Concentration in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics (STEM)

The DBA Concentration in Business Intelligence & Data Analytics (BIDA) prepares business executives with the knowledge and acumen to solve complex business problems, enabling organizations to remain competitive in the 21st-century globalized economy. Through the use of data analytics and Business Intelligence (BI) tools, doctoral students will gain valuable insights about customers, competitors, internal operations, and external variables that influence organizational strategy, and will enhance their ability to make better strategic decisions. Doctoral students will analyze business data and be able to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of business operations and also become fastidious about future predictions and strategic implementation. The curriculum is purposeful in integrating BI & DA concepts, theories, and practices that are in alignment with industry-recognized professional certifications in BI & DA from Microsoft, tdwi, Google, and Qlik. This concentration builds a strong foundation in executive analytics that will enable doctoral students to utilize business intelligence tools such as artificial intelligence (AI), predictive and prescriptive analytics, and decision support systems.

BUS 800 Foundations in Analytics for Executives - 3 credit hours BUS 801 BI, Analytics, & Decision Support - 3 credit hours BUS 802 Time Series & Predictive Analysis for Business - 3 credit hours BUS 803 Artificial Intelligence & Prescriptive Analytics* - 3 credit hours

Concentration in Strategic Leadership in the 21st Century

Expectations are high for the changes this decade is likely to bring to the workplace. Leadership influencers are forecasting challenges that leaders will face as a new level of workplace transformation continues to be shaped by accelerating technology changes, increasing consumer expectations, and hyper-connectivity. The goal of this concentration is to prepare students to meet these challenges by introducing the concepts of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Work Culture, Employee Experience, Data, Change, Analytics, Diversity, Productivity, Automation, and Well-Being.

BUS 810 Building Positive Relationships in a Multigenerational Workforce - 3 credit hours BUS 811 Emotional Intelligence in Transformational Leadership - 3 credit hours BUS 812 Emerging Technology for Effective Leadership - 3 credit hours BUS 814 Global Leadership - 3 credit hours

Concentration in Information Technology Management (STEM)

The DBA Concentration in Information Technology (ITM) prepares doctoral students with the knowledge and acumen required to attain roles as senior directors and executives, leading functional information technology systems and business-related technology divisions and/or units. The ITM concentration curriculum is designed to enable business and technology administrators to lead and manage enterprise-wide IT projects and to solve complex business and IT problems. Emphasis is placed on projects that ensure digital assets security as well as on developing the expertise to implement a governance and management enterprise IT infrastructure. Modern and advanced topics in ITM such as data analytics in project management or investigated. Doctoral students will gain valuable insights into the strategic frameworks needed to sustain competitive advantage through the use of IT and other emerging technologies. This concentration has its design roots in the Project Management Institute (PMI) Guide to the Body of Knowledge (PMBOK), so qualified candidates can be prepared to sit for industry-recognized certification(s) (CIO Magazine ranked the PMP as the top PM certification worldwide) such as the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), Project Management Professional (PMP), and/or the Portfolio Management Professional (PfMP). In addition, qualified candidates can be prepared to sit for the industry-recognized certification for the Certified Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT) credential and/or the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) credential. At the enterprise-level, organizations must rely on senior directors and executives to ensure that industry standards regarding the compliance and governance of IT infrastructure are in place and adhered to. Thus, a purposeful effort to align part of the curriculum with the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA), an accepted Information Systems Knowledge and Practice platform, has been made to ensure graduates have the essential knowledge needed to administer enterprise IT governance. Finally, the ITM concentration delves into advanced IT topics such as Business Intelligence (BI) and the enterprise-level management of information systems (MIS) to ensure that graduates have a meaningful, substantial, and momentous impact on the organization through a holistic technology leadership approach.

BUS 820 Business Intelligence & Information Systems - 3 credit hours BUS 821 Management Information Systems & Advanced IT - 3 credit hours BUS 822 Information Technology Project & Portfolio Management - 3 credit hours BUS 823 Governance of Enterprise IT Initiatives - 3 credit hours

Concentration in Applied Computer Science (STEM)

The DBA Concentration in Applied Computer Science (ACS) prepares doctoral students with the knowledge and acumen required to attain roles as senior directors and executives, leading functional computer science, software, information systems, and technology business-related divisions and/or units. The ACS concentration curriculum is designed to enable technology administrators to lead enterprise-wide initiatives in software engineering and computer science that incorporate relevant, current, and emerging technologies for the purpose of sustaining competitive advantage, while expanding and adapting new computer science and industry standards, frameworks, and best practices. Part of the ACS curriculum is aligned with the International Information System Security Certification Consortium’s (ISC)2 Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP) certification, and CompTIA’s Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) certification, so qualified candidates can be prepared to sit for these industry-recognized certifications. Graduates will be prepared to establish and direct long-term strategic goals, policies, and related procedures for the organization’s technology and software development programs. This exciting concentration delves into software engineering concepts, Business Intelligence (BI), analytical tools to support organizational decisions, software security design principles, and examines the virtual and augmented world of Human Computer Interaction (HCI) and various Intelligent User Interfaces (IUI) in preparation for the next wave of a more dynamic interconnect between humans and machines.

BUS 801 BI, Analytics, & Decision Support - 3 credit hours BUS 830 Software Engineering Concepts - 3 credit hours BUS 831 Security in Software Design & Development - 3 credit hours BUS 832 Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Design - 3 credit hours

Concentration in Web Development & Applications Management Concentration

The Full Stack Coding Bootcamp offered by Westcliff University is a multidimensional certificate program that bridges a path for students who want to pursue careers in the growing and exciting field of web development. The program focuses on creating dynamic and interactive experiences through a rigorous full stack coding curriculum. Students pursuing this program will gain the necessary skills for front-end and back-end development, all while preparing them for success in the professional world.

WEB 840 Front End Web Development - 4 credit hours

WEB 841 Back End Web Development - 4 credit hours

WEB 842 Advanced Full Stack Web Development - 4 credit hours

Westcliff University requires all students enrolled in doctoral-level degree or certificate programs in the College of Business to successfully complete a Practical Learning Experience (PLE) as a graduation requirement. Westcliff University degrees and certificates are designed to prepare students for the professional workforce, and the knowledge and skills learned throughout their program are directly applicable to the industries to which they are associated. Practical learning allows students to further refine the associated knowledge and skills through guidance, oversight, and feedback from industry experts and professionals while also building a stable network and gathering references to support their career needs. Students are encouraged to take full advantage of the opportunities afforded to them in practical learning and maximize their potential career placement or advancement upon graduation.

The doctoral PLE requirement is satisfied by completing a credit-bearing internship course that is assessed on a Credit/No Credit basis. During practical learning, students engage in empirical experiences, in addition to participating in assigned course activities. This practice reflects Westcliff’s commitment to a practical and relevant education and the value of applied, experiential learning. Students who have this experience demonstrate a more successful transition into a new career or career advancement. Students are encouraged to complete as many PLEs as their schedules will permit in pursuit of the completion of their program(s).

Doctoral practical learning opportunities exist on- and off-campus. Off-campus practical learning requires prior University approval, and F-1 students must have Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization to participate in off-campus practical learning. Students are responsible for developing and demonstrating the skills necessary to be successful in a PLE. In addition to contemporary and growing industry knowledge, students should also be prepared to demonstrate professionalism, effective communication (written, oral and digital), and integrity while engaged in practical learning. The faculty facilitating internship courses associated with Practical Learning Experience assess these qualities and provide valuable feedback regarding their development to students throughout each experience. Students may reach out to Career Services with any questions about practical learning at the doctoral level.

Program Information

Doctor of Business Administration Core Course Requirements - 60 Credit Hours Total

Students must complete the following required courses by the end of Year 1 (19.5 credit hours total):

LDR 700 Leadership and Creative Solutions Implementation - 3 credit hours MGT 700 Managing People and Organizations - 3 credit hours FIN 700 Financial Risk Management - 3 credit hours MKT 700 Marketing Strategy & Consumer Behavior - 3 credit hours RES 700 Business Research Methods I - 4.5 credit hours RES 701 Doctoral Prospectus -  3 credit hours

Students must complete the following required courses by the end of Year 2 (19.5 credit hours total):

Concentration Course I - 3 credit hours Concentration Course II - 3 credit hours ECO 700 Business in a Global Economy - 3 credit hours ORG 700 Corporate Social Responsibility and Organizational Development - 3 credit hours RES 702 Business Research Methods II - 4.5 credit hours RES 703 Doctoral Literature Review - 3 credit hours

Students must complete the following required courses by the end of Year 3 (21 credit hours total):

Concentration Course III - 3 credit hours Concentration Course IV - 3 credit hours DIS 900 Doctoral Dissertation Course I - 3 credit hours DIS 901 Doctoral Dissertation Course II - 4.5 credit hours DIS 902 Doctoral Dissertation Course III - 3 credit hours DIS 903 Doctoral Dissertation Course IV - 4.5 credit hours

In addition to the core requirements, students choose a concentration within the Doctor of Business Administration program. In order to graduate with a concentration, students must take four (4) courses, totaling 12 credit hours in the area of their concentration while at Westcliff University in addition to all of the Doctor of Business Administration core course requirements.

Strategic Leadership for the 21st Century - The Doctor of Business Administration with a concentration in Strategic Leadership for the 21 st Century prepares students for the high expectations and changes decade is likely to bring to the workplace. Leadership influencers are forecasting challenges that leaders will face as a new level of workplace transformation continues to be shaped by accelerating technology changes, increasing consumer expectations, and hyper-connectivity. The goal of this concentration is to prepare students to meet these challenges by introducing the concepts of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Work Culture, Employee Experience, Data, Change, Analytics, Diversity, Productivity, Automation, and Well-Being.

DBA STEM Concentration Options

In the Doctor of Business Administration degree program, students have the option to apply one (1) or two (2) undergraduate concentrations from the College of Technology and Engineering to satisfy the requirement to have a concentration.

To complete a Doctor of Business Administration with a concentration in Cybersecurity or Information Technology Management (ITM), students must complete 15 credit hours total. To complete a Doctor of Business Administration with a concentration in Web Development & Applications Management, students must complete 18 credit hours total.

Applied Computer Science (ACS) - The Doctor of Business Administration with a concentration in Applied Computer Science (ACS) prepares doctoral students with the knowledge and acumen to lead computer science and software initiatives that incorporate relevant, current, and emerging technologies for the purpose of sustaining competitive advantage in a computer science framework. This exciting concentration delves into software engineering concepts, Business Intelligence (BI), analytical tools to support organizational decisions, software security design principles, and examines the virtual world of Human Computer Interaction (HCI).

Business Intelligence & Data Analytics (BIDA) - The Doctor of Business Administration with a concentration in Business Intelligence & Data Analytics (BIDA) prepares business executives with the knowledge and acumen to solve complex business problems, enabling organizations to remain competitive in the 21st-century globalized economy. Through the use of data analytics and Business Intelligence (BI) tools, doctoral students gain valuable insights about customers, competitors, internal operations, and external variables that influence organizational strategy, and enhance their ability to make better strategic decisions. Doctoral students in this concentration analyze business data with the specific intent to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of business operations while becoming fastidious about future predictions and strategic implementation. Students develop a strong foundation in executive analytics using critical business intelligence tools such as artificial intelligence (AI), predictive and prescriptive analytics, and decision support systems.

Cybersecurity - The Doctor of Business Administration with a concentration in Cybersecurity covers the different cyber-threats in today’s digital age and how we can implement the best technical and business security practices to mitigate and counter these risks. Cyber security can be defined in a nutshell, as follows: It is the set of technologies, processes, and practices designed to protect networks, computers, programs, and data from attack, damage or unauthorized access. Cybersecurity knowledge becomes a cornerstone in the development of individuals and teams that are prepared to protect governmental, military, and commercial institutions from cyber-attacks. Graduate students will complete one additional graduate level assignment in each course.

Information Technology Management (ITM) - The Doctor of Business Administration Concentration in Information Technology Management (ITM) prepares business & IT executives with the knowledge and acumen to solve complex business and IT problems, manage IT initiatives, ensure digital assets security, and have the expertise to implement governance and management of the enterprise IT infrastructure. Doctoral students will gain valuable insights into the strategic frameworks needed to sustain competitive advantage through the use of IT and other emerging technologies. This concentration has its design roots in the Project Management Institute (PMI) guide to the Body of Knowledge (PMBOK), and the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) accepted Information Systems Knowledge and Practice platform.

Web Development & Applications Management -  The Full Stack Coding Bootcamp offered by Westcliff University is a multidimensional certificate program that bridges a path for students who want to pursue careers in the growing and exciting field of web development. The program focuses on creating dynamic and interactive experiences through a rigorous full stack coding curriculum. Students pursuing this program will gain the necessary skills for front-end and back-end development, all while preparing them for success in the professional world.

• Course Catalog and Student Handbook Student Handbook/Catalog

Scholarship Opportunities

As a Westcliff student, you have access to a powerful network of support from staff, faculty, alumni, and many others who take pride in investing in you. Scholarships are made possible by generous benefactors who are passionate about supporting your success.

2023-2024 Academic Year Calendar

Doctoral Program in Business Administration and Analytics

The program offers a broad range of specialisations, with PhD supervision offered by academics from Melbourne Business School.

Specialisations

• Success Stories

Current PhD Students

Past phd students.

• Further Information

The Melbourne Business School three-year thesis-only doctoral program in business administration and analytics provides students with an unparalleled opportunity to work directly with award-winning researchers who specialise in a wide variety of disciplines.

As Australia’s best business school, Melbourne Business School is uniquely positioned to deliver such a program by drawing on its strong connection to business and its ability to bring together a cohort of high-performing domestic and international students. This program is specifically designed for high achieving candidates with an exceptional potential for undertaking cutting-edge research in one or more areas specialisation.

The program offers a broad range of specialisations, with PhD supervision offered by academics from Melbourne Business School on a broad range of fields including (but not limited to):

• Business Analytics
• Human Resource Management
• Organisational Behaviour
• Statistics and Econometrics
• Sustainability

For more information on Melbourne Business School's academic staff, please visit mbs.edu/faculty

Success story

Melbourne Business School offered a collegial environment to undertake my studies, and throughout I was provided with a high level of personal and professional support. I was fortunate to be supervised by very accomplished researchers in my specialisation, and with their collaboration I published several research papers in leading academic journals, helping me to build an international profile of my own.

DR RUBEN LOAIZA-MAYA PhD 2018, Statistics and Econometrics University of Melbourne

Frederik Bossaerts PhD (Business Analytics)

Frederik's research focuses on price formation and strategic behaviour of informed traders in financial markets, as well as the construction of optimal portfolios under different limited information sets.

Noor de Bruijn PhD (Business Analytics)

Noor's research centres on using natural language processing to analyse gender bias in workplace performance evaluations.

Lin Deng PhD (Business Administration)

Lin's research involves the development of Bayesian statistical methods applied to high-dimensional data and dynamic processes.

Yu Fu PhD (Business Analytics)

Yu’s research lies in the intersection between machine learning and Bayesian econometrics, with a focus on developing flexible variational inference for econometric models.

Gaomin Liu PhD (Business Administration)

Gaomin joined Melbourne Business School as a doctoral researcher, primarily focusing on sustainability and business innovation.

Yiing-Chee Tan PhD (Business Analytics)

Yiing Chee’s research interest revolves around an interdisciplinary approach, employing statistical and econometric tools to analyse financial, economic, or time series data.

Weiben Zhang PhD (Business Administration)

Weiben's research interest lies in Bayesian econometrics, with a focus on estimation methods for big models and data, and their application to stochastic modelling in finance.

Dr. Muralee Das PhD (Business Administration), 2017

With a background in senior executive roles in international sports management, Muralee’s PhD thesis focused on leadership and firms’ processes that deliver blended value and the leadership of social entrepreneurs.

Dr. Ruben Loaiza-Maya PhD (Business Administration), 2018

Ruben completed his PhD in statistics and econometrics. His research focuses on developing models and estimation methods that can be applicable to large data sets with multiple and highly dependent variables.

Dr. Nazanin Babolmorad PhD (Business Administration), 2023

Nazanin completed her PhD in Finance. Her research lies at the intersection between finance and computer science, with a focus on extracting information from textual data for financial markets.

This course is offered at the University of Melbourne, Parkville campus.

For detailed information on the course including subject information, fees and how to apply, please visit Study Hub on the University of Melbourne website.

Acknowledgement of Country

Melbourne Business School acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we work. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Melbourne Business School | CRICOS provider code: 00116K | ABN: 80 007 268 233 | © Copyright 2020, All Rights Reserved.

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A traditional MBA experience rooted in analytics and leadership bolstered by a close-knit program of students with diverse backgrounds. You’ll choose from five majors, three of which are STEM-designated, to focus your path. Your time at Notre Dame will support your growth as you work to achieve your personal and professional goals.

• Average work experience: 5.1 years
• Program duration: 2 years

A rigorous MBA for working professionals to take your career to new heights. The once-a-month in-person program will challenge you to be the best for your organization and the world.

• Average age: 37 years
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• Program duration: 22 months

A traditional graduate program to launch your career in the in-demand field of business analytics. Understand and translate data into business context to improve decision making.

• Average work experience: Less than 2 years
• Program duration: 10 months

An accounting master’s with tracks in Assurance and Advisory Services and Tax Services that will prepare you for the CPA exam, a successful career and even more.

• Average age: 23 years

Notre Dame’s newest business degree designed to prepare business and non-business graduates alike to thrive in the digital era.

• Average work experience: Less than 3 years

Leverage your quantitative background to enter the financial services sector with Notre Dame’s Master of Science in Finance, a degree designed to pivot your path in less time.

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Complement your undergraduate degree and launch a career that utilizes your passions and skills with a graduate degree for non-business undergraduates.

• Program duration: 11 months

This program for experienced working professionals in the non-profit sector will take your servant heart and provide you with the business skills to boost the impact you are making on the world.

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You have a servant heart and want to change the world for the better. With this full-time program, we’ll teach you the business skills needed to make you a force for good and successfully lead nonprofit programs.

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Graduates of the PhD program are well-positioned to attain academic jobs at top business schools, where they can pursue successful careers in data analytics intensive domains such as business analytics, data science, information systems, operations, and computational social science, conducting research that is impactful and supports human flourishing.

Earn a PhD in Management to become a professor in the management department of a top business school while pursuing a research agenda that you’re passionate about and improve employee thriving and organizational effectiveness.

DiscoverDataScience.org

PhD in Data Science – Your Guide to Choosing a Doctorate Degree Program

Created by aasif.faizal

Professional opportunities in data science are growing incredibly fast. That’s great news for students looking to pursue a career as a data scientist. But it also means that there are a lot more options out there to investigate and understand before developing the best educational path for you.

A PhD is the most advanced data science degree you can get, reflecting a depth of knowledge and technical expertise that will put you at the top of your field.

This means that PhD programs are the most time-intensive degree option out there, typically requiring that students complete dissertations involving rigorous research. This means that PhDs are not for everyone. Indeed, many who work in the world of big data hold master’s degrees rather than PhDs, which tend to involve the same coursework as PhD programs without a dissertation component. However, for the right candidate, a PhD program is the perfect choice to become a true expert on your area of focus.

If you’ve concluded that a data science PhD is the right path for you, this guide is intended to help you choose the best program to suit your needs. It will walk through some of the key considerations while picking graduate data science programs and some of the nuts and bolts (like course load and tuition costs) that are part of the data science PhD decision-making process.

Data Science PhD vs. Masters: Choosing the right option for you

If you’re considering pursuing a data science PhD, it’s worth knowing that such an advanced degree isn’t strictly necessary in order to get good work opportunities. Many who work in the field of big data only hold master’s degrees, which is the level of education expected to be a competitive candidate for data science positions.

So why pursue a data science PhD?

Simply put, a PhD in data science will leave you qualified to enter the big data industry at a high level from the outset.

You’ll be eligible for advanced positions within companies, holding greater responsibilities, keeping more direct communication with leadership, and having more influence on important data-driven decisions. You’re also likely to receive greater compensation to match your rank.

However, PhDs are not for everyone. Dissertations require a great deal of time and an interest in intensive research. If you are eager to jumpstart a career quickly, a master’s program will give you the preparation you need to hit the ground running. PhDs are appropriate for those who want to commit their time and effort to schooling as a long-term investment in their professional trajectory.

For more information on the difference between data science PhD’s and master’s programs, take a look at our guide here.

Topics include:

• Can I get an Online Ph.D in Data Science?
• Overview of Ph.d Coursework

Preparing for a Doctorate Program

Building a solid track record of professional experience, things to consider when choosing a school.

• What Does it Cost to Get a Ph.D in Data Science?
• School Listings

Data Science PhD Programs, Historically

Historically, data science PhD programs were one of the main avenues to get a good data-related position in academia or industry. But, PhD programs are heavily research oriented and require a somewhat long term investment of time, money, and energy to obtain. The issue that some data science PhD holders are reporting, especially in industry settings, is that that the state of the art is moving so quickly, and that the data science industry is evolving so rapidly, that an abundance of research oriented expertise is not always what’s heavily sought after.

Instead, many companies are looking for candidates who are up to date with the latest data science techniques and technologies, and are willing to pivot to match emerging trends and practices.

One recent development that is making the data science graduate school decisions more complex is the introduction of specialty master’s degrees, that focus on rigorous but compact, professional training. Both students and companies are realizing the value of an intensive, more industry-focused degree that can provide sufficient enough training to manage complex projects and that are more client oriented, opposed to research oriented.

However, not all prospective data science PhD students are looking for jobs in industry. There are some pretty amazing research opportunities opening up across a variety of academic fields that are making use of new data collection and analysis tools. Experts that understand how to leverage data systems including statistics and computer science to analyze trends and build models will be in high demand.

Can You Get a PhD in Data Science Online?

While it is not common to get a data science Ph.D. online, there are currently two options for those looking to take advantage of the flexibility of an online program.

Indiana University Bloomington and Northcentral University both offer online Ph.D. programs with either a minor or specialization in data science.

Given the trend for schools to continue increasing online offerings, expect to see additional schools adding this option in the near future.

Overview of PhD Coursework

A PhD requires a lot of academic work, which generally requires between four and five years (sometimes longer) to complete.

Here are some of the high level factors to consider and evaluate when comparing data science graduate programs.

How many credits are required for a PhD in data science?

On average, it takes 71 credits to graduate with a PhD in data science — far longer (almost double) than traditional master’s degree programs. In addition to coursework, most PhD students also have research and teaching responsibilities that can be simultaneously demanding and really great career preparation.

What’s the core curriculum like?

In a data science doctoral program, you’ll be expected to learn many skills and also how to apply them across domains and disciplines. Core curriculums will vary from program to program, but almost all will have a core foundation of statistics.

All PhD candidates will have to take a qualifying exam. This can vary from university to university, but to give you some insight, it is broken up into three phases at Yale. They have a practical exam, a theory exam and an oral exam. The goal is to make sure doctoral students are developing the appropriate level of expertise.

Dissertation

One of the final steps of a PhD program involves presenting original research findings in a formal document called a dissertation. These will provide background and context, as well as findings and analysis, and can contribute to the understanding and evolution of data science. A dissertation idea most often provides the framework for how a PhD candidate’s graduate school experience will unfold, so it’s important to be thoughtful and deliberate while considering research opportunities.

Since data science is such a rapidly evolving field and because choosing the right PhD program is such an important factor in developing a successful career path, there are some steps that prospective doctoral students can take in advance to find the best-fitting opportunity.

Join professional associations

Even before being fully credentials, joining professional associations and organizations such as the Data Science Association and the American Association of Big Data Professionals is a good way to get exposure to the field. Many professional societies are welcoming to new members and even encourage student participation with things like discounted membership fees and awards and contest categories for student researchers. One of the biggest advantages to joining is that these professional associations bring together other data scientists for conference events, research-sharing opportunities, networking and continuing education opportunities.

Leverage your social network

Be on the lookout to make professional connections with professors, peers, and members of industry. There are a number of LinkedIn groups dedicated to data science. A well-maintained professional network is always useful to have when looking for advice or letters of recommendation while applying to graduate school and then later while applying for jobs and other career-related opportunities.

Kaggle competitions

Kaggle competitions provide the opportunity to solve real-world data science problems and win prizes. A list of data science problems can be found at Kaggle.com . Winning one of these competitions is a good way to demonstrate professional interest and experience.

Internships

Internships are a great way to get real-world experience in data science while also getting to work for top names in the world of business. For example, IBM offers a data science internship which would also help to stand out when applying for PhD programs, as well as in seeking employment in the future.

Demonstrating professional experience is not only important when looking for jobs, but it can also help while applying for graduate school. There are a number of ways for prospective students to gain exposure to the field and explore different facets of data science careers.

Get certified

There are a number of data-related certificate programs that are open to people with a variety of academic and professional experience. DeZyre has an excellent guide to different certifications, some of which might help provide good background for graduate school applications.

Conferences

Conferences are a great place to meet people presenting new and exciting research in the data science field and bounce ideas off of newfound connections. Like professional societies and organizations, discounted student rates are available to encourage student participation. In addition, some conferences will waive fees if you are presenting a poster or research at the conference, which is an extra incentive to present.

It can be hard to quantify what makes a good-fit when it comes to data science graduate school programs. There are easy to evaluate factors, such as cost and location, and then there are harder to evaluate criteria such as networking opportunities, accessibility to professors, and the up-to-dateness of the program’s curriculum.

Nevertheless, there are some key relevant considerations when applying to almost any data science graduate program.

What most schools will require when applying:

• All undergraduate and graduate transcripts
• A statement of intent for the program (reason for applying and future plans)
• Letters of reference
• Application fee
• Online application
• A curriculum vitae (outlining all of your academic and professional accomplishments)

What Does it Cost to Get a PhD in Data Science?

The great news is that many PhD data science programs are supported by fellowships and stipends. Some are completely funded, meaning the school will pay tuition and basic living expenses. Here are several examples of fully funded programs:

• University of Southern California
• University of Nevada, Reno
• Kennesaw State University
• Worcester Polytechnic Institute
• University of Maryland

For all other programs, the average range of tuition, depending on the school can range anywhere from $1,300 per credit hour to $2,000 amount per credit hour. Remember, typical PhD programs in data science are between 60 and 75 credit hours, meaning you could spend up to $150,000 over several years.

That’s why the financial aspects are so important to evaluate when assessing PhD programs, because some schools offer full stipends so that you are able to attend without having to find supplemental scholarships or tuition assistance.

Can I become a professor of data science with a PhD.? Yes! If you are interested in teaching at the college or graduate level, a PhD is the degree needed to establish the full expertise expected to be a professor. Some data scientists who hold PhDs start by entering the field of big data and pivot over to teaching after gaining a significant amount of work experience. If you’re driven to teach others or to pursue advanced research in data science, a PhD is the right degree for you.

Do I need a master’s in order to pursue a PhD.? No. Many who pursue PhDs in Data Science do not already hold advanced degrees, and many PhD programs include all the coursework of a master’s program in the first two years of school. For many students, this is the most time-effective option, allowing you to complete your education in a single pass rather than interrupting your studies after your master’s program.

Can I choose to pursue a PhD after already receiving my master’s? Yes. A master’s program can be an opportunity to get the lay of the land and determine the specific career path you’d like to forge in the world of big data. Some schools may allow you to simply extend your academic timeline after receiving your master’s degree, and it is also possible to return to school to receive a PhD if you have been working in the field for some time.

If a PhD. isn’t necessary, is it a waste of time? While not all students are candidates for PhDs, for the right students – who are keen on doing in-depth research, have the time to devote to many years of school, and potentially have an interest in continuing to work in academia – a PhD is a great choice. For more information on this question, take a look at our article Is a Data Science PhD. Worth It?

Complete List of Data Science PhD Programs

Below you will find the most comprehensive list of schools offering a doctorate in data science. Each school listing contains a link to the program specific page, GRE or a master’s degree requirements, and a link to a page with detailed course information.

Note that the listing only contains true data science programs. Other similar programs are often lumped together on other sites, but we have chosen to list programs such as data analytics and business intelligence on a separate section of the website.

Boise State University  – Boise, Idaho PhD in Computing – Data Science Concentration

The Data Science emphasis focuses on the development of mathematical and statistical algorithms, software, and computing systems to extract knowledge or insights from data.  

In 60 credits, students complete an Introduction to Graduate Studies, 12 credits of core courses, 6 credits of data science elective courses, 10 credits of other elective courses, a Doctoral Comprehensive Examination worth 1 credit, and a 30-credit dissertation.

Electives can be taken in focus areas such as Anthropology, Biometry, Ecology/Evolution and Behavior, Econometrics, Electrical Engineering, Earth Dynamics and Informatics, Geoscience, Geostatistics, Hydrology and Hydrogeology, Materials Science, and Transportation Science.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $7,236 total (Resident), $24,573 total (Non-resident)

View Course Offerings

Bowling Green State University  – Bowling Green, Ohio Ph.D. in Data Science

Data Science students at Bowling Green intertwine knowledge of computer science with statistics.

Students learn techniques in analyzing structured, unstructured, and dynamic datasets.

Courses train students to understand the principles of analytic methods and articulating the strengths and limitations of analytical methods.

The program requires 60 credit hours in the studies of Computer Science (6 credit hours), Statistics (6 credit hours), Data Science Exploration and Communication, Ethical Issues, Advanced Data Mining, and Applied Data Science Experience.

Students must also complete 21 credit hours of elective courses, a qualifying exam, a preliminary exam, and a dissertation.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $8,418 (Resident), $14,410 (Non-resident)

Brown University  – Providence, Rhode Island PhD in Computer Science – Concentration in Data Science

Brown University’s database group is a world leader in systems-oriented database research; they seek PhD candidates with strong system-building skills who are interested in researching TupleWare, MLbase, MDCC, Crowd DB, or PIQL.

In order to gain entrance, applicants should consider first doing a research internship at Brown with this group. Other ways to boost an application are to take and do well at massive open online courses, do an internship at a large company, and get involved in a large open-source software project.

Coding well in C++ is preferred.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $62,680 total

Chapman University  – Irvine, California Doctorate in Computational and Data Sciences

Candidates for the doctorate in computational and data science at Chapman University begin by completing 13 core credits in basic methodologies and techniques of computational science.

Students complete 45 credits of electives, which are personalized to match the specific interests and research topics of the student.

Finally, students complete up to 12 credits in dissertation research.

Applicants must have completed courses in differential equations, data structures, and probability and statistics, or take specific foundation courses, before beginning coursework toward the PhD.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $37,538 per year

Clemson University / Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) – Joint Program – Clemson, South Carolina & Charleston, South Carolina Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Data Science and Informatics – Clemson

The PhD in biomedical data science and informatics is a joint program co-authored by Clemson University and the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC).

Students choose one of three tracks to pursue: precision medicine, population health, and clinical and translational informatics. Students complete 65-68 credit hours, and take courses in each of 5 areas: biomedical informatics foundations and applications; computing/math/statistics/engineering; population health, health systems, and policy; biomedical/medical domain; and lab rotations, seminars, and doctoral research.

Applicants must have a bachelor’s in health science, computing, mathematics, statistics, engineering, or a related field, and it is recommended to also have competency in a second of these areas.

Program requirements include a year of calculus and college biology, as well as experience in computer programming.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $10,858 total (South Carolina Resident), $22,566 total (Non-resident)

View Course Offerings – Clemson

George Mason University  – Fairfax, Virginia Doctor of Philosophy in Computational Sciences and Informatics – Emphasis in Data Science

George Mason’s PhD in computational sciences and informatics requires a minimum of 72 credit hours, though this can be reduced if a student has already completed a master’s. 48 credits are toward graduate coursework, and an additional 24 are for dissertation research.

Students choose an area of emphasis—either computer modeling and simulation or data science—and completed 18 credits of the coursework in this area. Students are expected to completed the coursework in 4-5 years.

Applicants to this program must have a bachelor’s degree in a natural science, mathematics, engineering, or computer science, and must have knowledge and experience with differential equations and computer programming.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $13,426 total (Virginia Resident), $35,377 total (Non-resident)

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology  – Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Doctor of Philosophy in Data Sciences

Harrisburg University’s PhD in data science is a 4-5 year program, the first 2 of which make up the Harrisburg master’s in analytics.

Beyond this, PhD candidates complete six milestones to obtain the degree, including 18 semester hours in doctoral-level courses, such as multivariate data analysis, graph theory, machine learning.

Following the completion of ANLY 760 Doctoral Research Seminar, students in the program complete their 12 hours of dissertation research bringing the total program hours to 36.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $14,940 total

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai  – New York, New York Genetics and Data Science, PhD

As part of the Biomedical Science PhD program, the Genetics and Data Science multidisciplinary training offers research opportunities that expand on genetic research and modern genomics. The training also integrates several disciplines of biomedical sciences with machine learning, network modeling, and big data analysis.

Students in the Genetics and Data Science program complete a predetermined course schedule with a total of 64 credits and 3 years of study.

Additional course requirements and electives include laboratory rotations, a thesis proposal exam and thesis defense, Computer Systems, Intro to Algorithms, Machine Learning for Biomedical Data Science, Translational Genomics, and Practical Analysis of a Personal Genome.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Not Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $31,303 total

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis  – Indianapolis, Indiana PhD in Data Science PhD Minor in Applied Data Science

Doctoral candidates pursuing the PhD in data science at Indiana University-Purdue must display competency in research, data analytics, and at management and infrastructure to earn the degree.

The PhD is comprised of 24 credits of a data science core, 18 credits of methods courses, 18 credits of a specialization, written and oral qualifying exams, and 30 credits of dissertation research. All requirements must be completed within 7 years.

Applicants are generally expected to have a master’s in social science, health, data science, or computer science. 

Currently a majority of the PhD students at IUPUI are funded by faculty grants and two are funded by the federal government. None of the students are self funded.

IUPUI also offers a PhD Minor in Applied Data Science that is 12-18 credits. The minor is open to students enrolled at IUPUI or IU Bloomington in a doctoral program other than Data Science.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $9,228 per year (Indiana Resident), $25,368 per year (Non-resident)

Jackson State University – Jackson, Mississippi PhD Computational and Data-Enabled Science and Engineering

Jackson State University offers a PhD in computational and data-enabled science and engineering with 5 concentration areas: computational biology and bioinformatics, computational science and engineering, computational physical science, computation public health, and computational mathematics and social science.

Students complete 12 credits of common core courses, 12 credits in the specialization, 24 credits of electives, and 24 credits in dissertation research.

Students may complete the doctoral program in as little as 5 years and no more than 8 years.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $8,270 total

Kennesaw State University  – Kennesaw, Georgia PhD in Analytics and Data Science

Students pursuing a PhD in analytics and data science at Kennesaw State University must complete 78 credit hours: 48 course hours and 6 electives (spread over 4 years of study), a minimum 12 credit hours for dissertation research, and a minimum 12 credit-hour internship.

Prior to dissertation research, the comprehensive examination will cover material from the three areas of study: computer science, mathematics, and statistics.

Successful applicants will have a master’s degree in a computational field, calculus I and II, programming experience, modeling experience, and are encouraged to have a base SAS certification.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $5,328 total (Georgia Resident), $19,188 total (Non-resident)

New Jersey Institute of Technology  – Newark, New Jersey PhD in Business Data Science

Students may enter the PhD program in business data science at the New Jersey Institute of Technology with either a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Students with bachelor’s degrees begin with 36 credits of advanced courses, and those with master’s take 18 credits before moving on to credits in dissertation research.

Core courses include business research methods, data mining and analysis, data management system design, statistical computing with SAS and R, and regression analysis.

Students take qualifying examinations at the end of years 1 and 2, and must defend their dissertations successfully by the end of year 6.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $21,932 total (New Jersey Resident), $32,426 total (Non-resident)

New York University  – New York, New York PhD in Data Science

Doctoral candidates in data science at New York University must complete 72 credit hours, pass a comprehensive and qualifying exam, and defend a dissertation with 10 years of entering the program.

Required courses include an introduction to data science, probability and statistics for data science, machine learning and computational statistics, big data, and inference and representation.

Applicants must have an undergraduate or master’s degree in fields such as mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering, or other scientific disciplines. Experience with calculus, probability, statistics, and computer programming is also required.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $37,332 per year

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Northcentral University  – San Diego, California PhD in Data Science-TIM

Northcentral University offers a PhD in technology and innovation management with a specialization in data science.

The program requires 60 credit hours, including 6-7 core courses, 3 in research, a PhD portfolio, and 4 dissertation courses.

The data science specialization requires 6 courses: data mining, knowledge management, quantitative methods for data analytics and business intelligence, data visualization, predicting the future, and big data integration.

Applicants must have a master’s already.

Delivery Method: Online GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $16,794 total

Stevens Institute of Technology – Hoboken, New Jersey Ph.D. in Data Science

Stevens Institute of Technology has developed a data science Ph.D. program geared to help graduates become innovators in the space.

The rigorous curriculum emphasizes mathematical and statistical modeling, machine learning, computational systems and data management.

The program is directed by Dr. Ted Stohr, a recognized thought leader in the information systems, operations and business process management arenas.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $39,408 per year

University at Buffalo – Buffalo, New York PhD Computational and Data-Enabled Science and Engineering

The curriculum for the University of Buffalo’s PhD in computational and data-enabled science and engineering centers around three areas: data science, applied mathematics and numerical methods, and high performance and data intensive computing. 9 credit course of courses must be completed in each of these three areas. Altogether, the program consists of 72 credit hours, and should be completed in 4-5 years. A master’s degree is required for admission; courses taken during the master’s may be able to count toward some of the core coursework requirements.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $11,310 per year (New York Resident), $23,100 per year (Non-resident)

University of Colorado Denver – Denver, Colorado PhD in Big Data Science and Engineering

The University of Colorado – Denver offers a unique program for those students who have already received admission to the computer science and information systems PhD program.

The Big Data Science and Engineering (BDSE) program is a PhD fellowship program that allows selected students to pursue research in the area of big data science and engineering. This new fellowship program was created to train more computer scientists in data science application fields such as health informatics, geosciences, precision and personalized medicine, business analytics, and smart cities and cybersecurity.

Students in the doctoral program must complete 30 credit hours of computer science classes beyond a master’s level, and 30 credit hours of dissertation research.

The BDSE fellowship requires students to have an advisor both in the core disciplines (either computer science or mathematics and statistics) as well as an advisor in the application discipline (medicine and public health, business, or geosciences).

In addition, the fellowship covers full stipend, tuition, and fees up to ~50k for BDSE fellows annually. Important eligibility requirements can be found here.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $55,260 total

University of Marylan d  – College Park, Maryland PhD in Information Studies

Data science is a potential research area for doctoral candidates in information studies at the University of Maryland – College Park. This includes big data, data analytics, and data mining.

Applicants for the PhD must have taken the following courses in undergraduate studies: programming languages, data structures, design and analysis of computer algorithms, calculus I and II, and linear algebra.

Students must complete 6 qualifying courses, 2 elective graduate courses, and at least 12 credit hours of dissertation research.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $16,238 total (Maryland Resident), $35,388 total (Non-resident)

University of Massachusetts Boston  – Boston, Massachusetts PhD in Business Administration – Information Systems for Data Science Track

The University of Massachusetts – Boston offers a PhD in information systems for data science. As this is a business degree, students must complete coursework in their first two years with a focus on data for business; for example, taking courses such as business in context: markets, technologies, and societies.

Students must take and pass qualifying exams at the end of year 1, comprehensive exams at the end of year 2, and defend their theses at the end of year 4.

Those with a degree in statistics, economics, math, computer science, management sciences, information systems, and other related fields are especially encouraged, though a quantitative degree is not necessary.

Students accepted by the program are ordinarily offered full tuition credits and a stipend ($25,000 per year) to cover educational expenses and help defray living costs for up to three years of study.

During the first two years of coursework, they are assigned to a faculty member as a research assistant; for the third year students will be engaged in instructional activities. Funding for the fourth year is merit-based from a limited pool of program funds

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $18,894 total (in-state), $36,879 (out-of-state)

University of Nevada Reno – Reno, Nevada PhD in Statistics and Data Science

The University of Nevada – Reno’s doctoral program in statistics and data science is comprised of 72 credit hours to be completed over the course of 4-5 years. Coursework is all within the scope of statistics, with titles such as statistical theory, probability theory, linear models, multivariate analysis, statistical learning, statistical computing, time series analysis.

The completion of a Master’s degree in mathematics or statistics prior to enrollment in the doctoral program is strongly recommended, but not required.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $5,814 total (in-state), $22,356 (out-of-state)

University of Southern California – Los Angles, California PhD in Data Sciences & Operations

USC Marshall School of Business offers a PhD in data sciences and operations to be completed in 5 years.

Students can choose either a track in operations management or in statistics. Both tracks require 4 courses in fall and spring of the first 2 years, as well as a research paper and courses during the summers. Year 3 is devoted to dissertation preparation and year 4 and/or 5 to dissertation defense.

A bachelor’s degree is necessary for application, but no field or further experience is required.

Students should complete 60 units of coursework. If the students are admitted with Advanced Standing (e.g., Master’s Degree in appropriate field), this requirement may be reduced to 40 credits.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $63,468 total

University of Tennessee-Knoxville  – Knoxville, Tennessee The Data Science and Engineering PhD

The data science and engineering PhD at the University of Tennessee – Knoxville requires 36 hours of coursework and 36 hours of dissertation research. For those entering with an MS degree, only 24 hours of course work is required.

The core curriculum includes work in statistics, machine learning, and scripting languages and is enhanced by 6 hours in courses that focus either on policy issues related to data, or technology entrepreneurship.

Students must also choose a knowledge specialization in one of these fields: health and biological sciences, advanced manufacturing, materials science, environmental and climate science, transportation science, national security, urban systems science, and advanced data science.

Applicants must have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering or a scientific field. 

All students that are admitted will be supported by a research fellowship and tuition will be included.

Many students will perform research with scientists from Oak Ridge national lab, which is located about 30 minutes drive from campus.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $11,468 total (Tennessee Resident), $29,656 total (Non-resident)

University of Vermont – Burlington, Vermont Complex Systems and Data Science (CSDS), PhD

Through the College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, the Complex Systems and Data Science (CSDS) PhD program is pan-disciplinary and provides computational and theoretical training. Students may customize the program depending on their chosen area of focus.

Students in this program work in research groups across campus.

Core courses include Data Science, Principles of Complex Systems and Modeling Complex Systems. Elective courses include Machine Learning, Complex Networks, Evolutionary Computation, Human/Computer Interaction, and Data Mining.

The program requires at least 75 credits to graduate with approval by the student graduate studies committee.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Not Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $12,204 total (Vermont Resident), $30,960 total (Non-resident)

University of Washington Seattle Campus – Seattle, Washington PhD in Big Data and Data Science

The University of Washington’s PhD program in data science has 2 key goals: training of new data scientists and cyberinfrastructure development, i.e., development of open-source tools and services that scientists around the world can use for big data analysis.

Students must take core courses in data management, machine learning, data visualization, and statistics.

Students are also required to complete at least one internship that covers practical work in big data.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $17,004 per year (Washington resident), $30,477 (non-resident)

University of Wisconsin-Madison – Madison, Wisconsin PhD in Biomedical Data Science

The PhD program in Biomedical Data Science offered by the Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics at UW-Madison is unique, in blending the best of statistics and computer science, biostatistics and biomedical informatics. 

Students complete three year-long course sequences in biostatistics theory and methods, computer science/informatics, and a specialized sequence to fit their interests.

Students also complete three research rotations within their first two years in the program, to both expand their breadth of knowledge and assist in identifying a research advisor.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $10,728 total (in-state), $24,054 total (out-of-state)

Vanderbilt University – Nashville, Tennessee Data Science Track of the BMI PhD Program

The PhD in biomedical informatics at Vanderbilt has the option of a data science track.

Students complete courses in the areas of biomedical informatics (3 courses), computer science (4 courses), statistical methods (4 courses), and biomedical science (2 courses). Students are expected to complete core courses and defend their dissertations within 5 years of beginning the program.

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, biology, biochemistry, nursing, mathematics, statistics, physics, information management, or some other health-related field.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $53,160 per year

Washington University in St. Louis – St. Louis, Missouri Doctorate in Computational & Data Sciences

Washington University now offers an interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Computational & Data Sciences where students can choose from one of four tracks (Computational Methodologies, Political Science, Psychological & Brain Sciences, or Social Work & Public Health).

Students are fully funded and will receive a stipend for at least five years contingent on making sufficient progress in the program.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $59,420 total

Worcester Polytechnic Institute – Worcester, Massachusetts PhD in Data Science

The PhD in data science at Worcester Polytechnic Institute focuses on 5 areas: integrative data science, business intelligence and case studies, data access and management, data analytics and mining, and mathematical analysis.

Students first complete a master’s in data science, and then complete 60 credit hours beyond the master’s, including 30 credit hours of research.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $28,980 per year

Yale University – New Haven, Connecticut PhD Program – Department of Stats and Data Science

The PhD in statistics and data science at Yale University offers broad training in the areas of statistical theory, probability theory, stochastic processes, asymptotics, information theory, machine learning, data analysis, statistical computing, and graphical methods. Students complete 12 courses in the first year in these topics.

Students are required to teach one course each semester of their third and fourth years.

Most students complete and defend their dissertations in their fifth year.

Applicants should have an educational background in statistics, with an undergraduate major in statistics, mathematics, computer science, or similar field.

Delivery Method: Campus GRE: Required 2022-2023 Tuition: $46,900 total

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Cybersecurity Guide

From scholar to expert: Cybersecurity PhD options

In this guide

• Industry demand
• 2024 rankings
• Preparation
• Considerations
• School listings

The cybersecurity landscape is not just growing—it’s evolving at a breakneck pace. And what better way to stay ahead of the curve than by pursuing a PhD in cybersecurity?

This advanced degree is no longer confined to the realm of computer science. Today, it branches into diverse fields like law, policy, management, and strategy, reflecting the multifaceted nature of modern cyber threats.

If you’re looking to become a thought leader in this dynamic industry, a PhD in cybersecurity offers an unparalleled opportunity to deepen your expertise and broaden your horizons.

This guide is designed to give prospective cybersecurity PhD students a general overview of available cybersecurity PhD programs. It will also outline some of the factors to consider when trying to find the right PhD program fit, such as course requirements and tuition costs. 

Industry demand for PhDs in cybersecurity

Like other cutting-edge technology fields, until recently, cybersecurity PhD programs were often training grounds for niche positions and specialized research, often for government agencies (like the CIA, NSA, and FBI),  or closely adjacent research organizations or institutions. 

Today, however, as the cybersecurity field grows to become more pervasive and consumer-oriented, there are opportunities for cybersecurity PhDs to work at public-facing companies like startups and name-brand financial, software, infrastructure, and digital service firms.

One trend that is emerging in the cybersecurity field is that cybersecurity experts need to be well-versed in a variety of growing threats. If recent headlines about cybersecurity breaches are any indication, there are a number of new attack vectors and opportunities for cybercrime and related issues. Historically, committing cybercrime took resources and a level of sophistication that required specialized training or skill.

But now, because of the pervasiveness of the internet, committing cybercrime is becoming more commonplace. So training in a cybersecurity PhD program allows students to become an experts in one part of a growing and multi-layered field.

In fact, this trend of needing well-trained, but adaptable cybersecurity professionals is reflected by the move by cybersecurity graduate schools to offer specialized master’s degrees , and many companies and professional organizations offer certifications in cybersecurity that focus on particular issues related to cybersecurity technology, cybersecurity law , digital forensics , policy, or related topics.

That said, traditional research-oriented cybersecurity positions continue to be in demand in academia and elsewhere — a trend that will likely continue. 

One interesting facet of the cybersecurity field is trying to predict what future cybersecurity threats might look like and then develop tools and systems to protect against those threats.

As new technologies and services are developed and as more of the global population begins using Internet services for everything from healthcare to banking — new ways of protecting those services will be required. Often, it’s up to academic researchers to think ahead and examine various threats and opportunities to insulate against those threats.

Another key trend coming out of academic circles is that cybersecurity students are becoming increasingly multidisciplinary.

As cybersecurity hacks impact more parts of people’s everyday lives, so too do the academic programs that are designed to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. This emerging trend creates an enormous amount of opportunity for students who have a variety of interests and who are looking to create a non-traditional career path.

The best cybersecurity PhD programs for 2024

Georgia institute of technology, northeastern university, marymount university, school of technology and innovation, nova southeastern university, college of computing & engineering, purdue university, stevens institute of technology, worcester polytechnic institute, university of illinois at urbana-champaign, mississippi state university, new york institute of technology.

These rankings were compiled from data accessed in November 2023 from the Integrated Post-Secondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and College Navigator (both services National Center for Education Statistics). Tuition data was pulled from individual university websites and is current as of November 2023.

What is required to get a PhD in cybersecurity?

Good news first: Obtaining a PhD in a field related to cybersecurity will likely create tremendous employment opportunities and lead to interesting and dynamic career options.

Bad news: Getting a PhD requires a lot of investment of time and energy, and comes with a big opportunity cost (meaning you have to invest four to five years, or longer, or pursue other opportunities to obtain a doctoral degree. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of what is required to get a PhD in cybersecurity. Of course, specific degree requirements will vary by program. One growing trend in the field is that students can now obtain degrees in a variety of formats, including traditional on-campus programs, online degree programs , and hybrid graduate degree programs that combine both on-campus learning with online learning. 

Related resources

• Online PhD in cybersecurity – A guide to finding the right program
• Cybersecurity degree programs
• Podcast episodes and expert interviews

Preparing for a cybersecurity doctorate program

Cybersecurity is a relatively new formalized technology field, nonetheless, there are several ways that students or prospective PhD candidates can get involved or explore the field before and during a graduate school program. A few examples of ways to start networking and finding opportunities include: 

Join cybersecurity organizations with professional networks

Specialized professional organizations are a good place to find the latest in career advice and guidance. Often they publish newsletters or other kinds of information that provide insights into the emerging trends and issues facing cybersecurity professionals. A couple of examples include:

The Center for Internet Security  (CIS) is a non-profit dedicated to training cybersecurity professionals and fostering a sense of collaboration. The organization also publishes information and analysis of the latest cybersecurity threats and issues facing the professional community.

The SANS Institute runs several different kinds of courses for students (including certification programs) as well as ongoing professional cybersecurity education and training for people working in the field. The organization has several options including webinars, online training, and live in-person seminars. Additionally, SANS also publishes newsletters and maintains forums for cybersecurity professionals to interact and share information.

Leverage your social network

Places like LinkedIn and Twitter are good places to start to find news and information about what is happening in the field, who the main leaders and influencers are, and what kinds of jobs and opportunities are available.

Starting a professional network early is also a great opportunity. Often professionals and members of the industry are willing to provide guidance and help to students who are genuinely interested in the field and looking for career opportunities. 

Cybersecurity competitions 

Cybersecurity competitions are a great way to get hands-on experience working on real cybersecurity problems and issues. As a PhD student or prospective student, cybersecurity competitions that are sponsored by industry groups are a great way to meet other cybersecurity professionals while getting working on projects that will help flesh out a resume or become talking points in later job interviews.

The US Cyber Challenge , for example, is a series of competitions and hackathon-style events hosted by the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate and the Center for Internet Security to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

Internships

Internships also continue to be a tried and true way to gain professional experience. Internships in technical fields like cybersecurity can also pay well. Like the industry itself, cybersecurity internships are available across a wide range of industries and can range from academic research-oriented to more corporate kinds of work. 

Things to consider when choosing a cybersecurity PhD program

There are many considerations to evaluate when considering any kind of graduate degree, but proper planning is essential to be able to obtain a doctoral degree. It’s also important to note that these are just guidelines and that each graduate program will have specific requirements, so be sure to double-check.

What you will need before applying to a cybersecurity PhD program:

• All undergraduate and graduate transcripts
• A statement of intent, which is like a cover letter outlining interest
• Letters of reference
• Application fee
• Online application
• A resume or CV outlining professional and academic accomplishments

What does a cybersecurity PhD program cost?

Obtaining a PhD is a massive investment, both in terms of time and money. Cybersecurity PhD students are weighing the cost of becoming an expert in the field with the payoff of having interesting and potentially lucrative career opportunities on the other side.

Degree requirements are usually satisfied in 60-75 hours, so the cost of a doctoral degree can be well into the six-figure range. Here’s a more specific breakdown:

Tuition rates

The Cybersecurity Guide research team looked at 26 programs that offer a cybersecurity-related PhD degree. Here’s a breakdown of tuition rates (all figures are based on out-of-state tuition).

$17,580 is the most affordable PhD program option and it is available at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

$86,833 is the average cost of a cybersecurity PhD and is based on tuition rates from all 26 schools.

$197,820 is the most expensive cybersecurity PhD program and is available at Indiana University Bloomington.

The good news is that by the time students get to the PhD level there are a lot of funding options — including some graduate programs that are completely funded by the university or academic departments themselves.

Additionally, funding in the form of research grants and other kinds of scholarships is available for students interested in pursuing cybersecurity studies. 

One example is the CyberCorps: Scholarships for Service program. Administered by the National Science Foundation, PhD students studying cybersecurity are eligible for a $34,000 a year scholarship, along with a professional stipend of $6,000 to attend conferences in exchange for agreeing to work for a government agency in the cybersecurity space after the PhD program. 

Frequently asked questions about cybersecurity PhD programs

Most traditional and online cybersecurity graduate programs require a minimum number of credits that need to be completed to obtain a degree. On average, it takes 71 credits to graduate with a PhD in cybersecurity — far longer (almost double) than traditional master’s degree programs. In addition to coursework, most PhD students also have research and teaching responsibilities that can be simultaneously demanding and great career preparation.

At the core of a cybersecurity doctoral program is a data science doctoral program, you’ll be expected to learn many skills and also how to apply them across domains and disciplines. Core curriculums will vary from program to program, but almost all will have a core foundation of statistics.  

All PhD candidates will have to take a series of exams that act as checkpoints during the lengthy PhD process. The actual exam process and timing can vary depending on the university and the program, but the basic idea is that cybersecurity PhD candidates generally have to sit for a qualifying exam, which comes earlier in the program (usually the winter or spring of the second year of study), a preliminary exam, which a candidate takes to show they are ready to start the dissertation or research portion of the PhD program, and a final exam where PhD students present and defend their research and complete their degree requirements. 

A cybersecurity PhD dissertation is the capstone of a doctoral program. The dissertation is the name of a formal paper that presents the findings of original research that the PhD candidate conducted during the program under the guidance of faculty advisors. Some example cybersecurity research topics that could potentially be turned into dissertation ideas include: * Policies and best practices around passwords * Ways to defend against the rise of bots * Policies around encryption and privacy * Corporate responsibility for employee security * Internet advertising targeting and privacy * The new frontier of social engineering attacks * Operation security (OpSec) strategy and policy * Network infrastructure and defense * Cybersecurity law and policy * The vulnerabilities of biometrics * The role of ethical hacking * Cybersecurity forensics and enforcement

A complete listing of cybersecurity PhD programs

The following is a list of cybersecurity PhD programs. The listing is intended to work as a high-level index that provides enough basic information to make quick side-by-side comparisons easy. 

You should find basic data about what each school requires (such as a GRE score or prior academic work) as well as the number of credits required, estimated costs, and a link to the program.

Arizona State University

Augusta university, boise state university, carnegie mellon university, colorado school of mines, dakota state university, george mason university, indiana university bloomington, iowa state university, louisiana tech university, marymount university, naval postgraduate school, new jersey city university, new york university, nova southeastern university, rochester institute of technology, sam houston state university, st. thomas university, the university of tennessee, university of california-davis, university of central florida, university of colorado-colorado springs, university of fairfax, university of idaho, university of missouri-columbia, university of north carolina at charlotte, university of north texas, university of texas at san antonio, university of tulsa, virginia tech.

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MS, Business Analytics

The Master of Science in Business Analytics is a one-year program to help students develop technical expertise in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data in a business context.

Degree Type: Masters

Degree Program Code: MS_BUAN

Degree Program Summary:

The MSBA program involves two semesters of study (33 total credit hours). During the program, you will develop expertise in the collection, storage, analysis, interpretation, and visualization of data, as well as learn the predominant programming languages in the field, namely SQL, R, and Python. Efficient processing of large quantities of data via platforms like Hadoop and SAS will be included. Business courses in analytics, marketing, economics, and strategy will provide you with frameworks to turn data analyses into business insights. You will also develop leadership, project management, and teamwork skills; as part of the Capstone Project, you will work in teams on real-world big data problems with a corporate partner and present project results to executive clients.​

For international students, the program’s STEM-certification provides eligibility for a three-year U.S. work permit upon graduation.

Locations Offered:

Athens (Main Campus)

College / School:

Terry College of Business

600 S. Lumpkin Street Athens, GA 30605

Department:

Business Analytics

Graduate Coordinator(s):

Cara Sonnier

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Types of Business Master’s Degrees: Deciding on Graduate Programs That Match Your Goals

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: September 6, 2024 , Reading time: 9 minutes

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Introduction to Master’s in Business Degrees

If you want to make a swift entry into the business industry, you should consider earning a master’s in business.

There are several types of master’s degrees in business, each having its own unique focus and potential career pathways. For instance, a master’s in business management gives you the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed in management roles. It helps you think strategically, lead effectively, and understand the industry better, making you a strong candidate for top jobs and advancing your career.

With so many options available, how do you decide which is right?

When considering a business master’s degree, align your choices with your career goals. We will have a quick rundown of the most common types of business master’s programs to help you make an informed decision.

Types of Master of Business Degrees

The most commonly pursued types of master’s in business degrees found in a business school:

Master of Business Administration

Masters in business management, master in finance, master in marketing, master of accounting, master of science in supply chain management, master of international business, master of business analytics.

These programs are vast and varied. Each school will have a different curriculum and approach to teaching master’s degree programs, but generally, these degrees cater to different career goals and industries. Here’s a brief overview of each type:

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is, globally, the most sought-after business degree worldwide. The latest Graduate Management Admission Council report shows over 44% of the total business school candidates in 2023 are eyeing an MBA. The GMAC data also show MBA grads make up almost 40% of C-suite executives.

MBA programs are vast. While mainly focusing on management, business, and entrepreneurship , students can also pursue finance, risk management, supply chain management, and more specializations.

The MBA, however, is one of the most difficult business master’s degrees. Here are the top business schools offering the best Master of Business Administration degree programs in the country:

The Master’s Degree in Business Management and the MBA have overlapping elements, particularly in their focus on management principles and leadership skills. However, they also have distinct differences in their objectives and target audiences.

This program usually has a more focused curriculum centered on management principles and practices. It is designed to provide in-depth knowledge of management theories, organizational behavior, and strategic planning.

The program is typically less broad than an MBA and may not offer the same level of specialization, and it’s usually pursued by individuals early in their careers.

Here are some of the top masters in business management schools:

A Master of Finance (MF) degree is ideal for students focused on finance . It offers comprehensive courses in financial theory, mathematics, quantitative finance, and related areas.

MF programs typically do not require prior work experience, making them popular among younger students. However, graduates of these programs are known to earn less than MBA graduates.

If you want to enter the world of finance swiftly, consider enrolling in the top business schools for an MF degree. These schools are known for their intensive curriculum and network that helps students access career opportunities and industry connections.

While a master’s degree isn’t usually required for marketing jobs, having one can make graduates stand out as more qualified and knowledgeable candidates.

A master’s degree in marketing focuses on consumer behavior , market research, and strategies for digital messaging.

These programs usually offer specializations, including online marketing technology, business sustainability, contemporary marketing practice, customer insight, digital landscape, innovation and new product development, marketing consultancy, marketing strategy, and relationship marketing.

Here are some of the top schools for business graduate degree programs in marketing:

A Master of Accounting (MAcc) degree is tailored for those aiming to advance their careers in accounting or attain CPA certification. This program provides in-depth knowledge of accounting principles, auditing, taxation, and financial reporting.

It often includes preparation for the CPA exams and is suited for individuals looking to specialize in accounting without pursuing a broader management role.

The MAcc is a highly specialized degree , usually pursued by those already in the accounting field or with a strong undergraduate background in accounting. Here are some leading institutions offering top Master of Accounting programs:

Those who want to focus on the strategies, logistics, and technologies involved in the global supply chain should consider pursuing a Master of Science in Supply Chain Management . It covers areas such as procurement, operations, and supply chain analytics.

This program is designed for individuals looking to enter or advance in logistics, operations management, and supply chain optimization roles.

Top programs offer rigorous coursework combined with practical, hands-on experience. Here are some of the top schools offering an MS in Supply Chain Management:

A Master of International Business (MIB)  covers international trade , global marketing, cross-cultural management, and international finance, preparing students for careers that require an understanding of international markets and global business strategies.

The MIB is ideal for individuals who aim to work in multinational companies or organizations with a global footprint. Here are some of the top programs for a Master of International Business:

With the growing importance of data in business strategy, the Master of Business Analytics (MSBA) has become a very in-demand degree . The MSBA allows students to focus on data analysis, statistical methods, and data-driven decision-making in business contexts.

The program equips students with practical skills in data mining, predictive modeling, and data visualization, preparing them to leverage data to solve complex business problems in the real world.

Here are some of the top schools offering a Master of Business Analytics:

Choosing the Master’s of Business Degree For Your Goals

Each master’s degree in business is valuable ; however, the value and return on investment will still vary depending on the individual’s interests and goals.

For instance, someone pursuing finance may not find the same value in a Master of Marketing as someone aiming to work in the marketing industry. The key is to align your choice with your career objectives and how each program’s unique offerings match your professional aspirations.

Here are quick considerations when choosing a master’s degree in business:

• Master of Business Administration: For aspiring leaders, entrepreneurs, or those seeking to switch careers into management roles.
• Masters in Business Management: For early-career professionals or those seeking specialized management skills.
• Master in Finance: For individuals passionate about financial markets and investment strategies.
• Master in Marketing: For those interested in consumer behavior and strategic marketing.
• Master of Accounting: For individuals seeking advanced knowledge in accounting and CPA certification.
• Master of Science – Supply Chain Management: For those focused on logistics, procurement, and supply chain optimization.
• Master of International Business: For those interested in global markets and cross-cultural management.
• Master of Business Analytics: For those passionate about data-driven decision-making, analysis, information technology, and how it can be applied to the business industry.

Beyond career goals and industry fit, you must consider the program’s networking opportunities.

Have you ever heard the saying, “In business, it’s not about what you know; it’s who you know?” While a college degree is valuable, a vast network and strong connections can significantly enhance your career prospects.

When choosing a master’s degree in business, considering the reputation of the program and the networking opportunities it offers is crucial for leveraging these advantages.

Master’s in business degrees are important to climb the corporate ladder. Take it from these successful graduates.

• “My MBA from Harvard Business School was pivotal in my career. The rigorous training in organizational dynamics enabled me to effectively leverage the power of large companies like Google and Facebook. It transformed my initial desire to make a tangible impact into a reality, allowing me to drive significant change at major tech companies and beyond.” — Sheryl Sandberg
• “Graduating with an MBA from Duke University gave me the foundation to excel in the corporate world, but my leap of faith in joining Apple truly defined my career. The decision to move from Compaq to Apple wasn’t purely logical, but a vision of potential and innovation guided it. That intuition paid off as we turned Apple into one of the most successful companies in the world.” — Tim Cook
• “My MBA from American University’s Kogod School of Business was instrumental in my transition from banking to global development. It gave me the strategic and management skills to lead impactful initiatives. At Save the Children, I’ve applied these skills to help reach millions of children worldwide, proving that with the right tools, you can make a profound difference.” — Carlos Carrazana.

Key Takeaways

A business degree can significantly advance your career by giving you important skills and connections. However, its value depends on how well it matches your career goals. You cannot feel successful by earning an MBA in general business if your main aim is to succeed as a CPA.

When deciding which master’s in business degree to pursue, always consider your career goals . Ask yourself these two questions:

• What specific skills and knowledge do I need to achieve my career objectives?
• What career opportunities and connections does this program provide?

Reflecting on these questions can help you choose a business degree that truly supports your ambitions and will set you up for long-term success.

Additional Resources:

• Best Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) Grad School Programs
• Best Online Master’s of Business Graduate Schools
• Best Online Master’s of Business Administration Graduate Schools

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