Program Overview

Program Overview

The PhD in Strategy and International Business at the University of Birmingham combines targeted teaching with in-depth research, developing skills to address real-world business and societal challenges. The program equips students to analyze and address strategy and international business challenges using advanced research tools, engage in discussions on responsible business and the Sustainable Development Goals, and communicate policy and practice implications to relevant stakeholders.

Course Structure

• The PhD program includes a 60-credit training program.
• Students can register for a full-time 3-year PhD or a part-time 6-year PhD.
• The first year includes seminars and workshops focused on business and management debates, research project design, and empirical research methods.
• By the end of the first year, students complete and present a 10,000-word research document, contributing to their 80,000-word thesis.

Research Areas

The PhD program provides students with the capabilities to characterize, research, and conceptualize strategy and international business problems and challenges using advanced research tools, and to develop solutions. The program encourages students to engage with ongoing debates on responsible business and with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Research areas include:

• Organizations and Sustainable Development in the Global Economy
• Innovation and Collaboration in Global Value Chains and Multinational Strategies
• SMEs and International Entrepreneurship
• Living in a World of Global Organizations

Entry Requirements

• 1st or upper 2nd class honors degree awarded by a recognized university in an appropriate subject, and a merit in a relevant Master’s degree.
• Applicants for postgraduate research programs should hold a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree with a GPA of 3.0/4.0, 3.5/5, or 75% from a recognized institution.
• Students who have not studied in English must pass a recognized English test.

Fees and Scholarships

• Full-time: £5,181
• Part-time: £2,591
• A limited number of scholarships and studentships may be available to outstanding applicants.

Application Process

• To apply for a postgraduate research program, students will need to submit their application and supporting documents online.
• If applying to an advertised PhD, please check the details of the specific research project for application deadlines.
• If submitting a research proposal, applications are accepted all year round, but it is recommended to apply by June 1 for a September start.

Career Opportunities

• The University of Birmingham prepares researchers to make an impact across every sector of society.
• PhD graduates are global change-makers, advancing knowledge, shaping policy, leading industries, and educating future generations.
• Dedicated careers support is tailored to unique paths, with expert teams of Careers Advisers, including a dedicated postgraduate research adviser.

Student Experience

• The university offers a variety of accommodation options, including dedicated postgraduate halls and private accommodation close to campus.
• Birmingham is a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry.
• The green and spacious campus is the place where the community comes together to learn, relax, and socialize.
• Student support is committed to providing the best possible support to all students, ensuring they get the most out of their university experience.