UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · HONG KONG
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business and Economics
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
6.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 4 yearsMaximum study period for PhD
- 24 monthsProbationary period
- Full-timeMode of study
The University of Hong Kong's Faculty of Business and Economics offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program designed to equip students with advanced research skills in business and economics. This program aims to provide a deep understanding of key aspects within these fields, enabling students to conduct independent, original research. Through close interaction with faculty members, students will also gain a broader perspective on regional and international management and economic issues.
Curriculum
The PhD program includes coursework to build foundational knowledge and research tools, followed by a significant research component culminating in a thesis. Students must complete Graduate School and Faculty-specific courses, pass core examinations, and successfully defend a thesis proposal.
- Year 1-2 (approx.)
- Graduate School Courses
- Faculty Coursework Requirements
- Core Examination
- Year 2-4 (approx.)
- Thesis Proposal Submission and Oral Presentation
- Independent Research
- Thesis Submission and Oral Examination
Careers
Graduates of the PhD program are prepared for careers in academia and research-intensive roles within various sectors.
- Academia
- Research Scientist
- Senior Analyst
- Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the PhD in Business and Economics program?
- You need a recognized Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. For English language proficiency, a minimum IELTS overall band of 6.0 with no subtest lower than 5.5, or a TOEFL score of 80 or above is required, with specific score requirements for other recognized English tests.
- What is the duration of the PhD program?
- The program is designed for full-time study with a maximum study period of 4 years. There is also a probationary period of 24 months.
- How do I apply for the PhD program?
- Applications are submitted through the HKU Taught Postgraduate Admission online system. You will need to create an account, complete the online form, pay the application fee, and upload supporting documents such as transcripts and diplomas.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- The provided tuition fee of HKD 250,000 per year is for a 1-year full-time Master's program. Specific tuition fees for the PhD program are not detailed.
- Are there any scholarships available for PhD students?
- Yes, a Postgraduate Scholarship is awarded to PhD students. Holders of this scholarship may be required to provide up to 100 hours of services with educational benefits per year, such as research or teaching support.
- What are the career prospects after completing the PhD?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in academia and research-intensive roles. Potential roles include Academia, Research Scientist, Senior Analyst, and Consultant.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degree or equivalentA recognized Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification is required.
IELTSMinimum overall band of 6.0 with no subtest lower than 5.5.
TOEFLScore of 80 or above.
GCE/IGCSEGrade C or above in English.
Cambridge Test of Proficiency in English LanguageGrade C or above.
Preference may be given to candidates with two or more years of relevant work experience. For qualifications not taught in English, official English translations are required. IELTS and TOEFL scores must be from tests taken within two years prior to September 1 of the admissions year, starting from the 2026 intake.
Fees
Tuition (international)HKD 250,000 per year (for a 1-year full-time Master's program; PhD tuition may differ and is not specified).
Tuition (home)Not specified.
LivingNot specified.
The provided tuition fee of HKD 250,000 per year is for a 1-year full-time Master's program. Specific tuition fees for the PhD program and estimated living costs are not detailed on the provided pages.
How to apply
1. Establish AccountRegister an account on the HKU Taught Postgraduate Admission online system using your full name, a valid email address, and a username. If applying for multiple programs, create a new username and application for each.
2. Complete Application FormFill out the online application form. The system has inactivity timeouts, so save your progress regularly by clicking 'Save and Continue'. You can also log out and return later.
3. Pay Application FeeSubmit your application and pay the non-refundable application fee. Once paid, your application details cannot be changed online. An acknowledgement email with an application number will be sent upon successful submission.
4. Provide Supporting DocumentsUpload your supporting documents (transcripts, diplomas, certificates) via the admissions portal within two weeks after completing the online form and before the application deadline. Documents not in English must be accompanied by certified English translations from the issuing authority.
Scholarships
Postgraduate Scholarship—
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the PhD in Business and Economics program?
+
You need a recognized Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. For English language proficiency, a minimum IELTS overall band of 6.0 with no subtest lower than 5.5, or a TOEFL score of 80 or above is required, with specific score requirements for other recognized English tests.
What is the duration of the PhD program?
+
The program is designed for full-time study with a maximum study period of 4 years. There is also a probationary period of 24 months.
How do I apply for the PhD program?
+
Applications are submitted through the HKU Taught Postgraduate Admission online system. You will need to create an account, complete the online form, pay the application fee, and upload supporting documents such as transcripts and diplomas.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
The provided tuition fee of HKD 250,000 per year is for a 1-year full-time Master's program. Specific tuition fees for the PhD program are not detailed.
Are there any scholarships available for PhD students?
+
Yes, a Postgraduate Scholarship is awarded to PhD students. Holders of this scholarship may be required to provide up to 100 hours of services with educational benefits per year, such as research or teaching support.
What are the career prospects after completing the PhD?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in academia and research-intensive roles. Potential roles include Academia, Research Scientist, Senior Analyst, and Consultant.