PhD Management

The PhD Management programme from Birkbeck University is designed for students who wish to pursue academic careers involving teaching and research in management, or to develop careers in consultancy and policy making. The programme involves rigorous study and research, requiring students to be well-prepared to study the subject area in depth through academic research needed to complete an independent project.

The four-year full-time programme requires students to undertake original research and submit a substantial dissertation of up to 100,000 words. The research is based on the methods and theories from several social science fields, mainly economics, psychology, and sociology, along with geography and political science, enabling students to gain interdisciplinary skills and knowledge.

Founded in 1823 as the London Mechanics’ Institute, Birkbeck, University of London, is a public research university situated in central London. As part of the University of London, Birkbeck is celebrated for its excellence in research and teaching, offering a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across multiple disciplines.

What sets Birkbeck apart is its dedication to evening education, enabling students to pursue their studies alongside work and personal commitments. This flexible learning model has made Birkbeck a popular choice for working professionals looking to further their education.

Applicants are expected to submit a research proposal (approximately 2,000–3,000 words plus references) that outlines their intended project. The proposal should include an introduction, a literature review or theoretical framework, clearly defined research aims or questions, and the proposed methodology. It should also articulate the central issues the research will address and situate the project within the wider academic field, making reference to existing scholarship and relevant debates.

Grade Requirements: 

Applicants need a strong 2:1 or higher in their undergraduate degree and a merit or above in their master’s degree. At least one of these degrees should be in a subject related to the proposed research. Applicants must also provide degree transcripts, showing a detailed breakdown of marks, along with their degree certificates.

English Proficiency:

If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, you must demonstrate proficiency equivalent to an IELTS Academic score of 7.0 overall, with no less than 6.0 in each component.

For international students in the PhD Management programme at Birkbeck University, the tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year are £15,570.

Birkbeck University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students. Some scholarships are awarded directly by the university, while others are provided in partnership with external organisations.

Graduates of the PhD Management programme at Birkbeck University can pursue various career roles, including:

• Academic Researcher
• Programme Director
• Strategic Analyst 
• Corporate Development Manager 
• Policy Adviser 
• Human Resource Officer

To apply for this course, you’ll need to go through the university's page. To find out more about this process, speak to one of our trained counsellors.