Sheffield Hallam University

PHD Sheffield Business School Management, Finance, Service Sector

Sheffield Hallam University

Course overview

The PhD Sheffield Business School (Management, Finance, Service Sector) at Sheffield Hallam University can be taken full-time for four years or part-time for seven years. It is taught at the City Campus and allows students to primarily conduct independent research while meeting regularly with their supervisory team for support. Students will learn research ethics, teaching skills, and data management, all of which are essential for their development as researchers.

In this programme, students join a community of doctoral researchers from various departments, including Management and Finance. They apply their research to solve real-world problems in areas like hospitality, tourism, and business operations. At the start of their studies, students will work with their supervisors to identify their specific learning needs, and these will be reviewed throughout the programme. They also have opportunities to attend writing retreats and research training events to further enhance their skills.

Entry requirements

  • International students who need a student visa for studying in the UK are not eligible for this course.
  • Applicants must submit a research proposal that is no longer than 1,500 words and provide details about two referees who can comment on the applicant's academic abilities and skills. 
  • They also need to include a personal statement that addresses four specific questions and attend an interview, which can be conducted either online or in person.

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants should hold an undergraduate degree with at least a second-class upper (2.1) or possess a master's degree with merit in a relevant field.

English Proficiency:

  • For applicants who do not speak English as their first language, it is necessary to have a minimum IELTS score of 7.0, with no skill section below 6.5. 
  • Alternatively, applicants can demonstrate their English proficiency by having completed a UK Master's degree with a merit grade or higher.
  • Both qualifications mentioned above need to be taken within a two-year period prior to the course start date.

Scholarships

  • Chevening Scholarships

    Payment of tuition fees.

  • Inclusive Leadership and Sustainable Growth Executive MBA Scholarship

    Up to ten scholarships are available, each offering a £5,000 tuition fee discount.

    Up to £5,000

  • Joyce Spurr Art Travel Fund

    Successful applicants will be awarded between £50 and £250.

    Up to £50

  • Online Masters Scholarship

    A 10% discount on all our online masters courses.

    Up to 10% of fees

  • Performance Athlete Support Programme

    Successful applicants will receive support from our multi-disciplinary team of sport practitioners, free Team Hallam Ultimate Membership, and access to our facilities. Some students may also receive a bursary and support.

  • Postgraduate Research Scholarship

    A 10% discount on postgraduate research courses is available if you have graduated with a full degree from Sheffield Hallam.

    Up to 10% of fees

  • Postgraduate Study Discounts

    £2,000 discount on full-time postgraduate course fees for home and international students starting in 2026/27.

    Up to £2,000

  • Postgraduate Taught Scholarship

    £1,000 Postgraduate Taught

    Up to £1,000

  • Transform Together Scholarships

    A half fee waiver (50% discount) is available for undergraduate and postgraduate taught courses for the first year of study.

    Up to 50% of fees

  • Vice-Chancellor's Award

    South Asia - £2,000; Nigeria - £3,000; South East Asia - £3,000; Ghana- £3,000

Career opportunities

The following are potential careers for students who earn a PhD from Sheffield Business School (Management, Finance, Service Sector):

  • Lecturer
  • Research Fellow 
  • Consultant 
  • Financial Manager
  • Business Development Manager
  • Insurance Advisor

Cost of study

The tuition fee for international students enrolling in the Sheffield Hallam University PhD Sheffield Business School (Management, Finance, Service Sector)  programme for the academic year 2025/26 is £17,725 per year.

Admission

Candidates can apply for this course through the university's online application form. Those who have questions or need support can get in touch with one of our trained counsellors.

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