KING FAHD UNIVERSITY OF PETROLEUM AND MINERALS · SAUDI ARABIA
PhD in Business Administration
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
€0k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 42 Credit HoursTotal Credits
- 5 YearsProgram Duration (with Master's)
- Six Doctoral TracksSpecializations
- AACSB, AMBA, and 4 PALMES AccreditedAccreditations
- Full Scholarship for all PhD studentsScholarship
- Emphasis on publishable researchResearch Focus
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration at KFUPM Business School is a full-time, research-intensive program designed to cultivate the next generation of leading academics and researchers. The program emphasizes high-quality, publishable research and provides strong methodological training in both qualitative and quantitative approaches, including analytics and econometrics. It aims to expand Saudi Arabia's research capacity, contribute to the nation's Vision 2030 strategic sectors, develop a national faculty pipeline, and enhance the business school's research culture and international standing.
Curriculum
The PhD program consists of core research methods, track-specific theory courses, electives, and research components, culminating in a dissertation. Students must also pass a qualifying examination and publish at least one ISI-indexed journal article prior to graduation.
- Years 1-2 (Example Structure)
- Core Research Methods500/600-level
- Core Theory Courses (Track-Specific)
- Methodology Electives
- Business Theory Electives
- Free Elective
- Research Phase
- Ph.D. Seminar
- PhD Pre-Dissertation
- PhD Dissertation
Careers
This PhD program is ideal for individuals aspiring to careers in academia or research-intensive fields. Graduates are prepared to become scholars, researchers, and academic leaders.
- University Professor
- Researcher
- Academic Leader
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the PhD in Business Administration program?
- Applicants need a Bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 and strong quantitative skills. An IELTS score of 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT score of 80+ is required. A GMAT/GRE is recommended.
- What are the tuition fees and is there a scholarship available for international students?
- International PhD students receive a full scholarship covering tuition, housing, travel, medical care, subsidized meals, and free textbooks for the first four years. Tuition is free for all PhD students with this scholarship.
- How long does the PhD program typically take?
- The program duration is typically five years, including time for a Master's degree.
- What is the application period for the PhD in Business Administration program?
- The application window opens on November 23, 2025, and closes on January 10, 2026. Applications are submitted online through the KFUPM Graduate Admissions portal.
- What are the career prospects after completing this PhD?
- This program prepares graduates for careers as University Professors, Researchers, and Academic Leaders, particularly in academia or research-intensive fields.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeMinimum GPA of 3.0/4.0. Master's degree is optional but recommended.
Quantitative SkillsStrong quantitative skills are required. Applicants without a business background may need to complete preparatory coursework.
IELTS6.5+
TOEFL iBT80+
GMAT/GRE is recommended. Waivers may be available for candidates with strong research or publication records. Applicants must submit a CV, Statement of Purpose, and 3 recommendation letters. A qualifying (comprehensive) examination must be passed.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition is free for all PhD students with a full scholarship. For self-sponsored students (non-thesis programs), registration is 2000 USD/semester and 135 USD/credit hour. For thesis programs (MS & PhD), the first semester registration is 2000 USD, subsequent semesters are 1000 USD, and the fee per credit hour is 135 USD.
Tuition (home)Tuition is free for all PhD students with a full scholarship. For self-sponsored Saudi students in thesis programs, registration is 5000 SAR/semester (first admission) and 2500 SAR/semester (thesis semesters), with a fee of 500 SAR/credit hour.
LivingNot specified.
International PhD students receive a full scholarship which covers tuition, housing, travel, medical care, subsidized meals, and free textbooks. The scholarship is provided for the first four years of the five-year direct PhD program.
How to apply
1. Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form and upload all required documents.
2. Admissions Committee ReviewApplications are evaluated by the Admissions Committee, focusing on academic background, research capabilities, and quantitative skills. Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed.
3. InterviewSelected candidates will be contacted for a personal interview.
4. DecisionA final decision from the Admissions Committee will be communicated, typically within one month of the interview.
5. EnrollmentUpon receiving an admission offer, students can enroll for the specified intake.
Scholarships
Full Scholarship for PhD ProgramsCovers tuition fees, housing, travel, medical care, subsidized meals, and free textbooks.
Accreditation
KFUPM Business School is triple accredited by AACSB, AMBA, and 4 PALMES, signifying a commitment to high-quality teaching, continuous improvement, and international reputation.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the PhD in Business Administration program?
+
Applicants need a Bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 and strong quantitative skills. An IELTS score of 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT score of 80+ is required. A GMAT/GRE is recommended.
What are the tuition fees and is there a scholarship available for international students?
+
International PhD students receive a full scholarship covering tuition, housing, travel, medical care, subsidized meals, and free textbooks for the first four years. Tuition is free for all PhD students with this scholarship.
How long does the PhD program typically take?
+
The program duration is typically five years, including time for a Master's degree.
What is the application period for the PhD in Business Administration program?
+
The application window opens on November 23, 2025, and closes on January 10, 2026. Applications are submitted online through the KFUPM Graduate Admissions portal.
What are the career prospects after completing this PhD?
+
This program prepares graduates for careers as University Professors, Researchers, and Academic Leaders, particularly in academia or research-intensive fields.