University of Essex

PhD Business Administration

University of Essex

Course overview

The PhD Business Administration program at the University of Essex offers a platform for in-depth research into cutting-edge issues relevant to businesses at regional, national, and global levels. This program is designed to equip students with the skills to generate novel insights and theories that can help leaders navigate contemporary challenges, such as declining consumer confidence, talent retention difficulties, and the increasing demand for social and environmental responsibility. 

Through rigorous research, students contribute to shaping theory, policy, and practice within management studies and business analytics. Previous research by PhD students has explored areas including SME strategies in various economic contexts and the internationalisation of businesses. 

Assessment is primarily based on the successful completion of a substantial research project, culminating in a thesis, alongside participation in seminars and scholarly activities. The program aims to prepare graduates for impactful careers in academia, research, or high-level business roles.

Entry requirements

  • Candidates are required to submit a personal statement in which they discuss their reasons for applying for the course and other relevant information regarding their studies.
  • A well-developed research proposal is essential.
  • You will normally be required to attend an interview (which may be a Skype interview) for acceptance.
  • Students have the option to upload their CVs along with their applications to demonstrate their work experience.

Grade Requirements

  • Applicants typically need a good Master's degree, or equivalent, in a related subject.

English Proficiency

  • Applicants from non-English speaking backgrounds need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each component or an equivalent qualification.

Scholarships

  • Alumni Loyalty Discount

    First Class or Distinction, 2.1 or Merit, 2.2 or successful completion of a Masters, Graduate or PG Diploma - 20%.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Essex Futures BT– Masters Scholarship

    School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering (CSEE) is delighted to be offering up to six scholarship worth £5,500 each for 1 year full time.

    Up to £5,500

  • Essex Preparation Programme Bursary

    £250 cash bursary.

    Up to £250

  • Global Talent Masters Scholarship

    You could be eligible for a scholarship worth £5,000, paid as a discount on your tuition fee.

    Up to £5,000

  • Hong Kong Undergraduate Scholarship

    The awards offered are a discount of £5,000 per year for a maximum of three years of full-time undergraduate study, up to a maximum of £15,000.

    Up to £15,000

  • Hugh Brogan Bursary

    If you are applying to study a History MA degree, you could be eligible for one of four available cash bursaries worth £2,500.

    Up to £2,500

  • International Baccalaureate Excellence Scholarship

    If you're starting at Essex in 2026-27 and achieve academic excellence in your International Baccalaureate, we will offer you a scholarship of £2,000 for your first year of study.

    Up to £2,000

  • Performance Sports Scholarships and Bursaries

    Tier 1 - Tuition fee discount up to 100%, Tier 2 - Cash bursary (of varying amounts), Tier 3 - Access to the above performance package benefits, with a value of up to £1,500.

  • Postgraduate Masters (PGT) International Health Bursary

    The University is offering a bursary of £776 for Masters (PGT) international students.

    Up to £776

  • Postgraduate Premium Pathway Scholarship

    You could be eligible for a tuition fee discount of £6,500, for your first year of study at Essex.

    Up to £6,500

  • Sociology and Criminology - Fuller PGT Scholarship

    The Department of Sociology and Criminology is offering scholarships of £11,025 to support six postgraduate students to study within the department in 2026-2027.

    Up to £11,025

  • The Always Essex Staff Discount Scholarship

    33% discount of the first-year tuition fee (first two years for part-time study).

  • The Eleonore Koch Travel Fund

    The School of Philosophical, Historical & Interdisciplinary Studies is offering a bursary of up to £5,000.

  • The Essex MBA Dean's Award

    The school is able to offer fee discounts between 10% - 100% of tuition fee value.

  • The International Undergraduate Scholarship

    The award is offered as a £5,000 discount on your tuition fees for the first year of study in 2026-27 only.

    Up to £5,000

  • The Ronald J. Hill Fund

    The department of Government is offering a bursary of £3,000 to assist one postgraduate student within the department of Government to assist with tuition fees or living costs.

    Up to £3,000

  • The Undergraduate Premium Pathway Scholarship

    You may be eligible for a tuition fee discount of £5,000, for each year of study at Essex up to a maximum of 3 years.

    Up to £5,000

  • University of Sanctuary Scholarship

Career opportunities

Graduates from a PhD Business Administration program can pursue careers in:

  • University Lecturer/Professor
  • Research Scientist
  • Management Consultant
  • Senior Executive
  • Business Analyst
  • Entrepreneur

Cost of study

International students will pay an annual tuition fee of £19,650, with the understanding that fees may increase for each subsequent academic year of study.

Admission

To apply for the PhD Business Administration programme at th University of Essex, please submit your application directly to the University. We recommend that you speak with our experienced counsellors, who can provide thorough support throughout your application, helping you highlight your strengths and ensure your application meets the programme's specific criteria.

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