Business Administration (PhD, 3 Years)

The Business School of the University of Nicosia offers two doctoral programs, the PhD and the DBA. Both degrees have the same status but they differ in their focus and orientation. The PhD is a theoretically focused, rigorous program that requires candidates to make a significant contribution to knowledge and/or theory, whereas the DBA is a professional doctorate which requires candidates to apply and develop existing theories/knowledge to make a significant contribution to professional practice. The PhD is ideal for candidates who wish to pursue a career in academia whereas the DBA is more appropriate for those who, after working for a few years, would like to advance their careers in industry by earning an advanced research degree.

PhD students need to take one course (Research Philosophy, Methodology and Methods) which aims to prepare PhD candidates for designing their study. The course lasts 4 days and it is offered in the first year of studies. For the DBA students are required to take four courses (Personal and Organizational Reflections; Literature Review; Research Philosophy, Methodology and Methods; Analysis of Information). Students need to be physically present for the Research Philosophy, Methodology and Methods course and normally are expected to be present for the other three DBA courses (even though there is flexibility in this and it can be discussed at the time the courses are offered). Thesis length is similar for both degrees (80.000 words) but the difference is that for the DBA assessed work from courses may be included in the final word count.

Starting dates for enrolling on the programs are Fall (October) and Spring (February). Specific positions available (by department and by faculty member) are announced on the website, and interested students are advised to check the website regularly for possible new announced positions. To be considered for entry on the doctoral programs the applicant should complete an online application form and submits an initial research proposal. The research proposal is a significant part of the application.

Once accepted on the program, students are assigned three supervisors, one main and two secondary, who guide them throughout their studies. There are frequent progress reports to ensure students receive the guidance they need and that they are on track. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their supervisors at regular intervals. After the course(s) is/are completed successfully, students prepare a final research proposal, which is a detailed document of length 7.500-10.000 words that outlines their research plan, clearly showing theoretical contribution, and methodological approach suggested. When this is approved by the relevant committee, they proceed with their research and register for their thesis.