While it is unusual, highly qualified students with career objectives clearly in mind may enter the doctoral programs in business directly from a baccalaureate program with the intention of working toward a doctoral degree. Most, however, will begin work toward the doctorate after obtaining the master's degree. The requirements for the Ph.D. program in business are fulfilled in three basic phases of study. Although these phases may overlap, the program requires a logical sequence of course work, qualifying examinations, and dissertation research. I requirements entail no minimum number of credit hours but focus instead on proficiency in business operations and the basic disciplines.
Individual departments determine the appropriate requirements for their majors.
All candidates for a doctoral degree in business must complete the two 1.5 semester hour teaching development seminars, or their equivalent. These seminars provide a grounding in learning and teaching styles and methods. The Phase II program of study is the central part of the student's doctoral-level course work. It is therefore critical that the courses be selected to achieve the student's educational objectives while emphasizing high levels of research and scholarship. The program of study for the major is planned in consultation with the student's major-field advisor and consists of a minimum of 18 credit hours of advanced graduate work.