Program Overview

Master's and Doctoral Degrees

The University of South Africa (Unisa) offers a range of master's and doctoral degrees across various colleges and departments. These programs are designed to provide advanced academic and professional training, culminating in the submission and acceptance of a research thesis.

Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies

The Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies is a full research degree that requires students to produce a doctoral research thesis under supervision. The qualification consists of a thesis, an oral defense, and two manuscripts submitted for publication in a recognized accredited journal.

• Qualification stream: International Business
• Qualification code: 90021 - INB
• Qualification type: Full Research
• NQF level: 10
• Total credits: 360

Rules and Purpose

The curriculum for the Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies includes a research proposal, an oral defense, and two manuscripts based on the candidate's research. The purpose of this qualification is to enable learners to produce a doctoral research thesis that meets international standards of scholarly and professional writing.

Admission and Registration

Applicants may only register once they have received confirmation of their admission from Unisa. Re-registering students and those who officially deferred their studies must register online during the approved registration period.

• Registration opens for master's and doctoral qualifications on 7 January 2026.
• Registration closes on 31 March 2026.
• The final date for payment is 31 March 2026.

Time Limits and Catalytic Niche Areas

Master's and doctoral qualifications have defined time limits, with options for extension. Unisa has identified 10 Catalytic Niche Areas (CNAs) for operationalization within the colleges, including:

• Marine studies
• Aviation and aeronautical studies
• Automotive
• Energy
• Space study and square kilometer array
• Fourth IR and digitalization
• Natural sciences (biotechnological studies)
• Health studies/medicine
• Feminist, womanist, and Bosadi theorizations
• Student support and co-curricular activities

Students interested in these areas should discuss incorporation into their studies with their supervisor.

PhD by Publication

A doctoral student may elect to complete their degree by publication, which involves several peer-reviewed publications contributing to a unified research theme. Each academic college has its own criteria for considering such requests, and students must discuss this option with their supervisor at the point of initial registration.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies includes compulsory modules, such as:

• TFINB02 - Thesis: International Business

Students should consult with their supervisor and the relevant college for specific curriculum requirements and research areas.