Postgraduate Research Degrees

Advance your academic journey in a dynamic research environment at Newcastle University Business School.

You'll join an internationally-recognised research community. We provide you with access to leading academics, cutting-edge resources, and unparalleled support.

We are committed to addressing real-world challenges and shaping the future of business and society. Your postgraduate research experience will prepare you for success in:

academia
policy-making
industry

Our postgraduate research programmes develop scholars who advance academic knowledge and business practice. They will equip you with the skills you need to succeed in a knowledge-intensive environment.

PhD programmes

We offer PhD study within several of our main research areas. Click the links below to view the course page for each programme.

Accounting and Finance PhD

Gain the skills needed to excel in a knowledge-intensive environment. Contribute to advancing the field of accounting and finance through original research.

Business and Management PhD

Develop as a rigorous scholar capable of advancing academic knowledge. Influence business practice through innovative research.

Economics PhD

Build expertise as a rigorous scholar. Contribute to the advancement of academic knowledge and practical applications in economics.

Marketing PhD

Delve into a specialised area of marketing. Create new knowledge through original research and advanced scholarship.

MA Research programmes

Our MA Research programmes develop skilled professionals who advance both academic knowledge and business practice. Our expert faculty guide projects to support your professional goals. You will be ready for careers in academia, industry or research.

Management and Business Studies (Research) MA

Develop essential skills and advanced knowledge in business and management. Be ready to proceed to doctoral research and further academic success.

Finance and Economics (Research) MA

This MA will provide you with the essential skills, knowledge and understanding of economics and finance needed to proceed to doctoral research.

Why choose us

Real-world impact

Embark on a research journey that empowers you to make a real-world impact. Our PhDs will help you towards your career in academic or other research-oriented institutions.

You'll have access to internationally recognised research centres, and work alongside world-leading academics. Their research impacts business, policy, and society on a global scale. This gives you the opportunity to contribute to meaningful change.

Advanced training and development

As part of a dynamic research environment, you’ll experience a challenging and vibrant atmosphere. It will stimulate your thinking, sharpen your focus, and prepare you for future success.

You’ll have the chance to develop advanced research skills through the Northern Advanced Research Training Initiative - a consortium of research-led business schools. You will receive tailored training to enhance your doctoral journey, through:

specialist workshops
an annual colloquium

We will help support your participation in training and conferences. You will be able to present your work and network with peers and experts. You’ll also take part in our PG Research Week. This features:

poster showcases
conferences
panels with industry leaders and academics

Recent discussions have explored topics such as the role of AI in academic work, with a focus on PhD and early career researchers.

A male academic with light skin wearing glasses, smiling and engaging with a female student in front of a research poster. The poster discusses an economic model.

A supportive and collaborative community

Beyond academic work, you’ll join a vibrant and supportive community. You’ll have opportunities to build connections through:

social events
an annual PGR trip
activities organised by our dedicated social convenor

Our research community is known for its distinctive reputation across multiple disciplines. Through this experience, you’ll become an integral part of it. Your work will contribute to impactful research that influences global policy and practice.

You’ll also receive personalised guidance and support to help you achieve your academic and research goals. From refining your thesis to navigating challenges, we’re committed to helping you succeed every step of the way.

How to apply

Applying for a PhD with Newcastle University Business School involves a few key steps. Please follow the instructions below carefully to ensure your application is complete.

1. Review the programme details

Familiarise yourself with the PhD programme and its requirements. These can be found on the course page for the PhD (see links above).

2. Contact potential supervisors (optional, but recommended)

We strongly recommend contacting potential supervisors in your area of interest before you submit your application. Profiles of our academic and research can be found in the People section of our website.

Note: if you don’t contact anyone, once we've received your application, we will still circulate your proposal amongst our team of supervisors to find the best match.

View our Academic and Research staff page

3. Prepare your research project proposal

Develop a detailed research proposal aligned with your chosen area of study.

4. Gather required documents

Ensure you have your CV, research proposal and any other necessary documents ready for submission.

5. Submit your application

Visit our application portal to submit your completed application. Be sure to include the code of the PhD programme in your submission.