Program Overview

PhD - Aston Business School

The PhD programme at Aston Business School is designed to train Doctoral students who aspire to become future academics or professional industry researchers.

Overview

Research at Aston Business School prepares students for a diverse range of careers in business and other industries. The school is one of only three business schools in the UK to receive the Small Business Charter Award, and 78% of its business research achieved 3* and 4* in the latest Research Excellence Framework.

About

Aston Business School addresses a wide variety of disciplinary and interdisciplinary themes. The school's research expertise is embedded in its academic departments, including:

• Accounting
• Economics, Finance and Entrepreneurship
• Marketing and Strategy
• Operations and Information Management
• Work and Organisation

Research Environment

The school has an exciting and vibrant research environment that enables PhD students to engage in various research events and seminars. PhD students have a dedicated research society that organises social and academic events throughout the year.

Programme Structure

The PhD programme typically lasts three years. In the first year, students undertake three ESRC-approved taught Research Methods modules, which provide the necessary skills to complete the PhD and develop as a well-rounded researcher. The modules cover:

• Research Design, Practice and Ethics
• Fundamentals in Quantitative Research Methods
• Foundations in Qualitative Research Methods

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the PhD programme, applicants must have:

• A Masters degree in business, management, or the social sciences (or related disciplines) with a Merit overall (or equivalent) and a dissertation/research element
• A First or Upper Second Class Honours degree (or an equivalent qualification from an overseas institution)
• English language proficiency (for applicants from non-majority English-speaking countries)

Fees

The annual full-time fees for the PhD programme are:

• ｣5,006 for UK students (2025/6)
• ｣15,800 for overseas students (2025/6)

Scholarships

Aston University offers various scholarships, including ESRC-funded PhD studentships and BSS PhD studentships.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit an online application, which includes:

• Personal details
• Educational background
• Research proposal
• References
• English language proficiency (if applicable)

Making Your Application

The application process involves several steps, including:

• Completing the online application form
• Uploading necessary documents
• Providing references
• Submitting a research proposal