The Ph.D. in Management with a concentration in Operations Research at Rutgers University–New Brunswick is offered by the Department of Management Science and Information Systems (MSIS). This program builds upon previous concentrations and focuses on advanced study and research in areas such as applied statistics, optimization, business analytics, operations management, and various theories related to uncertainty and risk. The faculty comprises world-renowned scholars with extensive research contributions and editorial experience in leading academic journals. Students are expected to have a strong foundation in linear algebra, analysis, probability, and programming skills. For those needing to strengthen their background, the Master of Information Technology and Analytics program is recommended, with courses potentially counting towards the Ph.D. if admitted later. The doctoral program requires students to complete a set of foundational and major courses, engage in early research experiences, and ultimately write and defend a dissertation. The curriculum is designed to equip students with rigorous quantitative and analytical skills necessary for impactful research and careers in operations research and related fields. Students typically complete three courses per semester during their first two years, followed by a qualifying examination, and then dedicate their third and fourth years to dissertation research.
The Ph.D. program in Operations Research requires a total of 72 credits. Students typically take three courses per semester during the first two years. The curriculum is structured into foundational/methodology courses, major courses, and electives. Additionally, students must complete two early research requirements and a dissertation.
Graduates with a Ph.D. in Operations Research are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, and various industries where advanced analytical and quantitative skills are essential. The program's rigorous training in optimization, statistics, and analytics equips students for roles in data science, management consulting, operations management, finance, and supply chain management.
Students may be required to enroll in non-degree courses to improve English or writing skills. They might also need to take a Teacher Training Seminar. These courses require tuition but do not count towards the 72 degree credits. Students must register for 26:711:689 every semester until dissertation proposal defense. This zero-credit registration requires attendance at the MSIS weekly seminar and does not incur tuition.
Additional tuition may apply for required non-degree courses for English or writing improvement.
Rutgers University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
A strong foundation in linear algebra, analysis, probability, and good programming skills is expected. Students may need to take preparatory courses if their background is insufficient.
The program is structured over four years. The first two years involve coursework and research requirements, followed by dissertation research in the third and fourth years.
The Ph.D. program requires a total of 72 credits, including foundational/methodology courses, major courses, electives, and dissertation work.
Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, and industries such as data science, management consulting, operations management, finance, and supply chain management.
Tuition and fee rates vary by program and are not specified in the provided documentation. Please refer to the official Rutgers University Finance and Administration website for the most current graduate tuition and fees.
The application deadline is usually in December or January for Fall admission. Specific dates can vary annually, so checking the Rutgers Graduate Admissions website is recommended.