PhD programme in Management
The aim of the PhD Program in Management at the USI Faculty of Economics is to enable students to excel as researchers in the international academic arena and to develop cutting-edge management-related topics.
The PhD programme in Management is full time and it typically lasts between four and (a maximum of) five years. The program's primary focus is on independent inquiry, research methodology, and publication of research results. Students work closely with their PhD advisor, other faculty members, and fellow students.
In the first two years, students take a comprehensive set of doctoral courses taught by USI faculty members and invited lecturers who are recognized as leaders in their field of research. From the third year, students are expected to develop their dissertation.
Conferral of the title of PhD depends on successful completion of academic courses as well as on successful defense of an original PhD dissertation. PhD dissertations may focus on any of a wide range of management-related research topics.
The ideal candidate has demonstrated an outstanding academic performance, is genuinely passionate about research, and is highly perseverant. He or she is motivated to pursue an international academic career.
We offer:
- solid training in advanced research methods and deep theoretical thinking;
- close interactions with internationally recognized faculty;
- extensive network with leading institutions worldwide;
- quality of the Swiss academic system;
- international and dynamic environment: small scale, broad reach.
Our faculty, in particular, includes experienced, research-active scholars whose work has been published in leading generalist journal in the field of management and sociology such as Academy of Management Journal, Organization Science, Administrative Science Quarterly, Strategic Management Journal and American Sociological Review among others. The small class size guarantee that all of our students benefit from their attention and expertise.
Structure and contents
In the first two years, students take a comprehensive set of doctoral courses taught by USI faculty members and invited lecturers who are recognized as leaders in their field of research.
Students enrolled in the PhD programme also have an opportunity to attend elective courses from partner institutions in Switzerland and Europe.
Students are also encouraged to spend a period abroad in their last years of their PhD studies to develop their dissertation.
Our students
Our students come from different countries and from different disciplinary perspectives. They feed our programme with enthusiasm and fresh ideas.
Testimonials
Martina Montauti, PhD in Management graduate, Assistant Professor of Strategy, IE Business School
The PhD program in Management has provided me with invaluable opportunities to earn the skills and absorb the norms that are relevant to the academic profession, but also offered a bright intellectual environment to find my own voice in both research and teaching. A rare combination of high-profile faculties, engaging coursework, and great colleagues made my doctoral studies in Lugano a true life-changing experience.
Applying
Positions are advertised on USI website when available.
Applications are considered only when a new position is open.
Apart from a few exceptional cases, all doctoral students in the PhD programme in Management are employed as scientific assistants of one the faculty members of the Institute of Management and Organisation.
Positions are fully funded for a maximum of 5 years.
