Aims and structure

In general, the aim of the programme is to develop students in advanced critical thinking skills and sufficient knowledge of the research process to be able to conduct high quality theoretical or applied research in management or related disciplines.

The product of the programme is a research thesis. The student is examined solely on this thesis by viva exam, usually with an external and internal examiner. The criterion for a PhD thesis in the Management School is that the research thesis should make a contribution to knowledge in the areas of management and organizational studies, or related organizational disciplines. Specifically, to be awarded a PhD, the examiners must be satisfied that the thesis `forms an addition to knowledge, shows evidence of systematic study and of the ability to relate the results of such study to the general body of knowledge in the subject and is worthy of publication in full or abridged form´.

Aims of the Doctoral Programme:

Develop the critical thinking and project management skills needed for high-quality management research;
Develop methodological expertise in the organizational sciences;
Develop detailed theoretical knowledge of an area of the organizational sciences;
Develop the ability to disseminate research to a variety of audiences - managers, academics and students.

Since the PhD degree is often undertaken by those wishing to pursue an academic career, supervisors may take opportunities to provide students with teaching experience. Usually this will be tutorials and marking, but may also include some lecturing.

Structure of the Doctoral Programme:

The following structure is indicative of the timetable for most programmes of study. However, please note that this is only indicative, and the precise timing may differ in each case.

Year 1:	Toward the end of year 1/ beginning of year 2:	Years 2 and 3:
The minimum period of registration is two years. We expect students to complete by the end of 3 years.
Registration for the degree of PhD	Submission of written document, and presentation at a graduate research seminar	Data collection, analysis and work on final thesis
Compulsory research training programme	Progress review by supervisor and panel. If progress is satisfactory, registration is confirmed at PhD	Ongoing research training
Work on literature review and proposal for research		Presentation of findings at a graduate research training seminar before beginning write-up of thesis
There may be some initial data collection at this stage		Submission of thesis
		Oral exam on thesis