Program Overview

Introduction to the PhD Programme

The University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business (UCT GSB) offers a PhD programme specialising in Business Administration. This programme is designed to make an original contribution to research and is an essential component of the university's research strategy.

Programme Overview

The PhD programme at the UCT GSB is a vital part of the school's research community. PhD candidates are expected to develop a formal research proposal within the first six months of registration, set commitments and a timeline outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with their supervisor, and take a proactive approach to identifying learning needs and implementing suitable responses.

Key Programme Details

• Delivery Method: Blended
• Location: Cape Town
• Duration: 3 - 5 years
• Programme Start Date: Monday, 23 February 2026
• Application Period: 1 May - 31 October 2025
• Programme Fee: R 27 170
• Application Fee: 100 ZAR / 100 USD

Research Areas

Research at the UCT GSB is focused around three major themes:

• Emerging markets finance, investment, and trade
• Social innovation and sustainability
• Values-based leadership

Entrance Requirements

To be considered for the PhD programme, applicants must meet certain entrance requirements, which can be found on the UCT GSB website.

Application Process

The application process involves several steps, including submitting a formal research proposal and participating in a presentation to a committee consisting of at least three faculty members.

Application Procedure

1. Develop a Research Proposal: Applicants must develop a formal research proposal within the first six months of registration.
2. MOU with Supervisor: Applicants must set commitments and a timeline outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with their supervisor.
3. Proactive Approach: Applicants must take a proactive approach to identifying learning needs and implementing suitable responses.
4. Participation in Research Calendar: Applicants must actively participate in the GSB Research Calendar.
5. Participation in Academic Life: Applicants must actively participate in the academic life of the GSB through lecturing, research seminars, and/or co-supervision of MBA research reports.

Funding

The UCT GSB is committed to broadening access to postgraduate education through funding and scholarship opportunities. PhD candidates can explore funding options available to them.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does a PhD take? The typical duration of a PhD project is between three and four years.
• How many hours per week are required? PhD students are recommended to dedicate at least 20 hours a week to the project.
• How do I find a supervisor? PhD supervisors must be full-time academics at the GSB and must be actively publishing in scholarly literature in the field in question.
• How do I present my research proposal? Once registered in the PhD programme, students will have approximately six months to develop a full research proposal, which will be presented formally to a committee consisting of at least three faculty members.

Faculty and Staff

The UCT GSB has a team of internationally acclaimed researchers and teachers who contribute directly to the school's reputation of excellence. Some of the key faculty members include:

• Professor Sean Gossel, Programme Director
• Ms. ViVienne Toleni, Programme Coordinator
• Mr. Derek Naude, Head: Recruitment and Admissions
• Dr. Badri Zolfaghari, Programme Director

Conclusion

The PhD programme at the UCT GSB is a rigorous and rewarding experience that offers students the opportunity to make an original contribution to research and become part of a vital research community. With its focus on emerging markets, social innovation, and values-based leadership, the programme is ideal for students who want to pursue a career in academia or industry.