UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN · SOUTH AFRICA
Doctor of Philosophy specialising in Business Administration
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
7.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Original research contributionKey Focus
- Highly competitive admissionsSelectivity
- Minimum 2-year durationDuration
- Supervisor-led researchSupport Model
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration at the University of Cape Town's Graduate School of Business (GSB) is a rigorous research degree designed for students who wish to make an original and significant contribution to the field of business research. This program requires independent study under the guidance of a supervisor, focusing on advanced research methodologies and practices. It is a highly competitive program, accepting only a limited number of candidates each year who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and a clear alignment of their research interests with their master's level work. Prospective students will engage in in-depth research, culminating in a doctoral dissertation that pushes the boundaries of current knowledge in business administration. The program is structured to develop advanced analytical and critical thinking skills, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, or high-level management and consultancy roles. Successful completion of the PhD signifies a profound understanding of a specialized area within business and the ability to conduct independent, high-quality scholarly work. The minimum duration for this research-focused degree is two years, though the actual time to completion can vary based on the nature of the research and the student's progress. The GSB emphasizes the importance of a well-defined research proposal and a strong academic background, particularly in research methodology, to succeed in this demanding program.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the minimum entry requirements for the PhD in Business Administration?
- You need a recognised Master's degree with at least 70% for your dissertation, and demonstrated research competency. Your proposed PhD research must align with your Master's dissertation.
- What are the English language requirements for international students?
- International applicants must provide a valid TOEFL score of at least 570 (paper-based), 230 (computer-based), or 88 (internet-based), or an IELTS overall band score of 7.0 with no individual element below 6.0. This requirement may be waived in certain circumstances.
- How long does the PhD in Business Administration take to complete?
- The minimum duration for this research degree is two years, though the actual time to completion can vary based on the nature of the research and the student's progress.
- What are the tuition fees for this programme?
- Specific international tuition fees are not provided on the programme page. You can find general university fee information in the UCT Fees Handbook and further details through the University of Cape Town's central fees portal.
- What is the application process for the PhD in Business Administration?
- The application process involves ensuring you meet eligibility requirements, preparing a research proposal and nominating a supervisor, gathering supporting documents (including your Master's dissertation), and submitting an online application.
- Are there any scholarships available for this programme?
- The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers a full scholarship to academically talented young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa who are first-time postgraduate degree-seeking applicants.
Entry requirements
Master's degreeA recognised Master's degree. In special circumstances, an approved Bachelor's degree or equivalent may be considered. International qualifications may require verification for South African equivalence.
Master's dissertation scoreAt least 70% for your Master's dissertation.
Research competencyDemonstrated necessary competencies in research methodology and practice for independent study.
Research alignmentProposed PhD research must align with your previous Master's dissertation.
TOEFLOverall score of at least 570 (paper-based), 230 (computer-based), or 88 (internet-based). Score must be obtained within 3-5 years of application.
IELTSOverall band score of 7.0, with no individual element below 6.0.
The UCT GSB PhD program is highly competitive. Applicants must ensure their Master's degree is complete and awarded. A completed Master’s dissertation must be uploaded as part of the application for assessment. The English language requirement may be waived by the GSB Research Director in certain circumstances for international applicants.
Fees
Tuition (international)Specific international tuition fees are not provided on the GSB PhD page, but general university fee information can be found in the UCT Fees Handbook.
Tuition (home)Specific domestic tuition fees are not provided on the GSB PhD page, but general university fee information can be found in the UCT Fees Handbook.
LivingNo specific living cost estimates are provided, but these would be additional to tuition fees.
Further details on fees, including payment methods and deadlines, are available through the University of Cape Town's central fees portal.
How to apply
1. Ensure EligibilityVerify that you meet all academic requirements, including holding a recognised Master's degree with at least 70% for your dissertation, and demonstrate research competency. For international students, ensure your Master's degree is equivalent to a South African degree if required.
2. Prepare Research Proposal and Supervisor NominationDevelop a research proposal that aligns with your Master's dissertation and identify a suitable supervisor within the GSB faculty. You must nominate a supervisor with your application.
3. Gather Supporting DocumentsPrepare all required documents, including your completed Master's dissertation. International applicants for whom English is a second language must provide a valid TOEFL or IELTS score (unless waived).
4. Submit Online ApplicationComplete the official university application form, ensuring all sections are accurately filled and all supporting documents, especially your Master's dissertation, are uploaded.
Scholarships
Mastercard Foundation Scholars ProgramFull-cost scholarship, including visa applications, travel, tuition, living expenses, medical aid, and accommodation.
Frequently asked questions
What are the minimum entry requirements for the PhD in Business Administration?
+
You need a recognised Master's degree with at least 70% for your dissertation, and demonstrated research competency. Your proposed PhD research must align with your Master's dissertation.
What are the English language requirements for international students?
+
International applicants must provide a valid TOEFL score of at least 570 (paper-based), 230 (computer-based), or 88 (internet-based), or an IELTS overall band score of 7.0 with no individual element below 6.0. This requirement may be waived in certain circumstances.
How long does the PhD in Business Administration take to complete?
+
The minimum duration for this research degree is two years, though the actual time to completion can vary based on the nature of the research and the student's progress.
What are the tuition fees for this programme?
+
Specific international tuition fees are not provided on the programme page. You can find general university fee information in the UCT Fees Handbook and further details through the University of Cape Town's central fees portal.
What is the application process for the PhD in Business Administration?
+
The application process involves ensuring you meet eligibility requirements, preparing a research proposal and nominating a supervisor, gathering supporting documents (including your Master's dissertation), and submitting an online application.
Are there any scholarships available for this programme?
+
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers a full scholarship to academically talented young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa who are first-time postgraduate degree-seeking applicants.