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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration

Study load:

Full- time

Duration:

3 Year

Mode:

Online

Credit:

90

SLQF:

12

Intakes:

Feb
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OVERVIEW

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration is a rigorous, research-intensive doctoral programme designed to develop independent scholars, thought leaders, and advanced practitioners capable of generating original knowledge and contributing meaningfully to the global body of business and management research.

This programme is structured to cultivate advanced theoretical insight, methodological competence, and critical analytical thinking, enabling candidates to investigate complex organisational, economic, and societal challenges. The PhD in Business Administration emphasises scholarly excellence, ethical research conduct, and the production of original research that demonstrates academic rigour and practical relevance.

Delivered through a flexible and academically guided structure, the programme supports professionals, academics, and researchers seeking to advance their intellectual capacity while maintaining professional commitments. Candidates engage in advanced research training, scholarly inquiry, and independent investigation under the supervision of experienced academic mentors.

The programme encourages interdisciplinary thinking and promotes innovation in areas such as leadership, strategy, entrepreneurship, finance, human resource management, marketing, organisational behaviour, and sustainability. Graduates are expected to contribute meaningfully to academic literature, influence policy and practice, and demonstrate the capacity to lead complex research initiatives in academic, corporate, and public-sector environments.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

  • Demonstrate advanced and original thinking in business and management research.
  • Design and conduct independent, ethical, and methodologically sound research.
  • Critically evaluate theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence within complex organisational contexts.
  • Contribute new knowledge that advances theory, policy, and professional practice.
  • Communicate research findings effectively to academic, professional, and policy-oriented audiences.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Graduates of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration are equipped with advanced research capabilities, strategic insight, and scholarly competence, enabling them to pursue leadership roles across academic, professional, and policy-driven environments.

  • University Lecturer
  • Senior Lecturer
  • Professor / Academic Researcher
  • Research Fellow
  • Policy Analyst
  • Strategic Advisor
  • Management Consultant
  • Senior Business Consultant
  • Executive Leader / Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
  • Director / Senior Manager
  • Academic Administrator
  • Dean / Head of Faculty
  • Research Director
  • Think Tank Specialist
  • Institutional Consultant

PROGRAM

Entry Requirements

Academic Requirements

Admission to the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration is subject to approval by the Academic Senate and requires applicants to meet the following criteria:

  • Academic Qualification: Applicants must hold a qualification equivalent to Sri Lanka Qualifications Framework (SLQF) Level 10, typically a two-year Master’s degree with a substantial research component. The qualification must demonstrate advanced theoretical understanding, research competence, and academic rigor relevant to the discipline.
  • Research Competency: Applicants must have successfully completed a research dissertation, thesis, or equivalent scholarly research project, evidencing the capacity for independent and original research.
  • Professional Experience: A minimum of five (5) years of relevant industry or professional experience is required. This experience should reflect progressive responsibility, leadership capability, and applied expertise within a professional or managerial context.
  • Senate Approval: Final admission is subject to evaluation and approval by the Academic Senate, based on academic merit, research readiness, and alignment with institutional standards.

Additional Requirements
The University reserves the right to request:

  • A research proposal or statement of intent
  • Academic transcripts and supporting documentation
  • An interview or academic assessment, where deemed necessary

INVESTMENT

The total investment for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme is LKR 900,000.

The payment structure is designed to be flexible and accessible, as outlined below:

Registration Fee

  • LKR 5,000
    Payable at the time of registration.

Initial Programme Payment

  • LKR 200,000
    Must be settled within two (2) months from the date of registration.

The remaining LKR 695,000 may be settled through either of the following instalment plans:

  • Option A:
    LKR 58,000 × 12 monthly instalments

OR

  • Option B:
    LKR 29,000 × 24 monthly instalments

Note

All registered students will receive International Student Registration, including an official Student ID Card and Student Registration Letter, issued through Nile University of Science and Technology, which is recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC). These documents will be issued within one month of successful registration.

Students may initially register for the programme by paying Rs. 5,000 and attend lectures for one month to assess the quality of the course.

Fees once paid are non-refundable and non-transferable, in accordance with institutional financial policies and regulations.

WHAT YOU NEED TO APPLY

Your application will require certified copies of the following documents:

1. Scan Copy of NIC

2. Scan Copy of Evidence of previous academic qualifications and transcripts

3. Payment Proof

Steps to apply

1. Decide on your course

2. Explore your entry options and check the requirements

3. Gather your documentation

4. Submit your application