University of Surrey

PhD Management and Business

University of Surrey

Course overview

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.

Entry requirements

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.

Scholarships

  • Discounts for Surrey Graduates

    As graduate of Surrey you may be eligible for a 20 per cent discount on our taught masters programme fees.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Early Payment Discount

    The discount is awarded as a £2,000 fee waiver for eligible students in the first year of their studies.

    Up to £2,000

  • ICAEW Foundation Bursary

    The ICAEW Foundation Bursary will be given as a one-off payment of £5,000 for one year of postgraduate study.

    Up to £5,000

  • International Alumni Discount for Medicine (Graduate Entry) BMBS

    The discount of 20% only applies to the first year of the Medicine (Graduate Entry) BMBS programme.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • International Excellence Award (Postgraduate)

    This prestigious £5,000 award recognises academic excellence and is awarded to selected students starting a masters degree at Surrey.

    Up to £5,000

  • International Excellence Award (Undergraduate)

    The scholarship is awarded as a £5,000 fee waiver.

    Up to £5,000

  • ISTAT Foundation Scholarship Program

    Contributing to the development of future aviation professionals by providing funds and avenues for students with a keen interest in commercial aviation.

  • Surrey MBA AI Pathfinders Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Eastern Europe Bridge Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Employer Partnership Scholarship

    This scholarship allows the Surrey MBA to match employer contributions towards the tuition fee up to 40%.

  • Surrey MBA Enterprise Trailblazer Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Service Stewardship Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Women in Leadership

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10 – 50% of the tuition fee.

  • The Professor GQ Max Lu Global Scholarship

    The total value of the award is £30,000 (£10,000 x 3 years).

    Up to £30,000

Career opportunities

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

Cost of study

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.

Admission

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.

Ready to start?

Book a free consultation and we'll map your fastest route to your place.

Apply Now
Download Free Guide