PhD in Management & Organization
Our PhD program is for those pursuing a research-track academic career. You'll receive rigorous training in management theory and methodology. With that knowledge, you will create insights that are publishable in top academic management journals.
We value research that goes beyond simply describing the world the way it is and, instead, imagines the world the way it might be. Our program is well-suited for those who are curious about the world around them. This is especially true for those who want to explore meaningful societal issues and topics on a deeper level. The program can take 4-6 years to complete.
Next entry: September 2026
Application window open: September 1, 2025
Application deadline: January 6, 2026
Program structure
The PhD program is a 4-year, full-time, research-focused program designed to prepare you for a tenure-track position at a leading business school. You will spend the first 2 years on formal coursework and research projects to build a solid research foundation. You will spend the last 2 years on further developing your research identity and developing your dissertation.
Your academic journey will also include submitting and presenting academic papers at top management conferences and to top-tier journals. To further develop your network for research collaborations, you have an option to incorporate an international research exchange into your program.
| Year 1 | Year 2 | Summer | Year 3 | Year 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theoretical & empirical foundation courses Advanced theory & methods courses |
Theoretical & empirical foundation courses Advanced theory & methods courses |
Candidacy exam* | Dissertation Proposal defence* |
Dissertation Defence/ final oral exam* |
| Teacher training • optional international research exchange | ||||
*Program milestones
Student & research stories
To me collegiality is about having a sense of mutual respect or reciprocity toward the people you are working with. This has been an important characteristic of my experience at Gustavson insofar as my research and teaching has been sustained by interaction with truly generous and kind people—who treat one another holistically as people first.
Balancing goodness and profit
New research from Gustavson explores the vital link between Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) decisions and strategy. Top photo: (L-R) Professor Ravee Chittoor and Gustavson PhD graduate...
PhD grad Indigenizing business in Canada
Emily (Williams) Salmon graduates with a PhD in International Management and Organization from UVic’s Gustavson School of Business this month. The Coast Salish researcher has already...
Starting with place
New research explores how place-based social enterprises revitalize their communities despite socio-economic and environmental challenges—and how we can do the same.
Learn more
If you have questions about the PhD program, connect with our office by email or phone 250-721-6060.