Original research at the frontier of management science
Online only
The PhD in Business Administration prepares scholars for careers in academia, think tanks, and senior policy roles. After completing doctoral coursework in research methods and advanced theory, you will develop an original dissertation contributing new knowledge to your field. Edinburgh faculty specialise in sustainable finance, digital transformation, emerging-market strategy, and organisational resilience. You will present at our annual research symposium and publish in peer-reviewed outlets with supervisory support.
Doctoral students join a research community with monthly colloquia, methods workshops, and writing retreats (virtual and Edinburgh). You may co-author with faculty before dissertation submission. Average time to candidacy: 18 months part-time.
Faculty spotlight
Professor Elena Vasquez chairs the Sustainable Finance Research Centre; Dr. Marcus Chen publishes on digital transformation in emerging markets.
Interactive modules, weekly readings, recorded and live seminars, and collaborative discussions with peers worldwide.
Module assignments, proctored examinations, and capstone projects designed to demonstrate mastery of the field.
Modules are assessed through a published mix of coursework, applied projects, and examinations. Exam windows are announced in advance so students in other time zones are not forced into overnight sittings. Alternative arrangements are available where documented.
The published duration is 3–5 years. Teaching language: English. Actual time-to-complete depends on mode and any recognised prior learning.
This is a fully online award. You study from your country. No student visa and no campus relocation are required.
Degree tuition for this award is published as £0 / tuition-free on the online pathway. Examination or administrative fees may apply at checkout — never an annual tuition invoice. Check the Fees page for any extras.
Requirements are grouped on this page (academic, English, documents, research). Equivalent qualifications are considered. English may be waived after prior English-medium study.
Assessment is typically a mix of coursework, projects, and examinations. Doctoral awards include a thesis or dissertation and an oral examination. Details sit in the programme specification and module outlines.
Recognition of the award for local employment, professional licence, or ministry attestation is decided by your employer or regulator. The University of Edinburgh publishes verification pages for certificates. We do not claim automatic equivalence in every country.
Start an application on this website. Progress is saved from the first step. Admissions: admissions@edinac.uk.
Study online
Every programme can be completed fully online with zero tuition fees — study from anywhere in the world.
Accreditation & recognition
