PhD Management and Business

The PhD in Management and Business program offers in-depth subject knowledge and advanced research training, enabling students to produce high-quality research with real-world impact. Students can choose between a traditional dissertation or a PhD by publication, allowing them to showcase their research in a format that suits their goals and contributions.

This flexibility supports students in achieving their academic and professional objectives. The program's focus on rigorous research methods and subject expertise prepares students to make meaningful contributions to their field.

The PhD Management and Business program is highly competitive, requiring strong academic credentials. Full-time students typically take 3-4 years to complete the degree, while part-time students take 6-7 years.

The first year involves four taught modules focusing on research methods and subject knowledge, with additional support from the Doctoral College and postgraduate careers team. Admission is based on meeting specific academic entry requirements, ensuring a thorough selection process for this advanced degree.

Set in Guildford, the University of Surrey is a beacon of academic excellence, renowned for its strong industry connections and commitment to producing career-ready graduates. Since its founding in 1966, Surrey has consistently delivered high-quality education, encouraging a global community of scholars through its innovative research, modern facilities, and diverse range of programs. 

With a focus on practical experience, the University's Professional Training placement program bridges the gap between education and industry, offering students outstanding opportunities to excel. Whether in the arts, business, engineering, or health sciences, Surrey's faculty and research centres provide an active environment for students to grow, innovate, and thrive.

Applicants are required to submit a personal statement, academic or employer reference, and a detailed research proposal, with an optional CV, to show their suitability for the course.

Grade Requirements: 

• Applicants typically need a minimum of an upper second-class (2:1) UK honours degree or a Master's degree with a minimum merit (or equivalent) in a subject relevant to their proposed research area. 
• The university accepts qualifications from recognised international universities.

English Proficiency: 

• Applicants for PhD programmes need an overall IELTS Academic score of 6.5 or above, with no individual component score below 6.0. 
• PTE and TOEFL are also accepted.
• The University of Surrey offers pre-sessional English language courses to help you reach the necessary level.

For the 2025/2026 academic year, the tuition fees for the PhD Management and Business programme are as follows:

• Full-time Overseas Students: £21,800 per year

• Part-time Overseas Students: £10,900 per year

Also note that tuition fees may increase by approximately 4% each year.

The University of Surrey offers various scholarships for PhD students, including international applicants. These scholarships include the International PhD Studentships, covering tuition fees and providing a stipend and the Vice-Chancellor's Studentships, offering full tuition fees and a living stipend, and Departmental Scholarships, providing funded PhD opportunities linked to specific research projects. The university offers many other scholarships, like the Research Council Studentship, Surrey Business School PhD Studentships and Professional Doctorates Studentships.

A PhD in Management and Business from the University of Surrey prepares graduates for a wide range of potential career paths, such as: 

• University Lecturer / Academic Researcher
• Management Consultant (Senior roles)
• Policy Analyst (Government/Think Tanks)
• Research and Development Manager
• Senior Business Analyst
• Organisational Development Specialist

Applicants should submit their application online through the University of Surrey's postgraduate admissions portal. If you need further assistance with your application, please contact our trained counsellors.