Doctoral Programme
Doctor of Philosophy PhD
Research. Contribute. Advance Knowledge.
A research-based PhD designed for experienced professionals and academically qualified candidates ready to undertake original research within their chosen field.
The IBSS PhD
Take Your Expertise Further Through Research.
The IBSS Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a research-based doctoral programme centred on the development and completion of an original piece of supervised research.
Unlike a traditional taught programme built around a series of business subjects, the PhD places your own research at the centre of the academic journey.
The programme begins with six months of structured research methodology and doctoral preparation, followed by 18 months of supervised research, thesis development, examination and final defence.
Your area of specialisation is developed through your approved research topic and doctoral thesis.
Programme Structure
A 2-Year PhD Journey.
A structured progression from research preparation to original doctoral research, thesis completion and defence.
Research Methodology & Doctoral Preparation
Build the methodological foundation for doctoral study and develop your research interests into a structured PhD proposal.
30 ECTSSupervised Research, Thesis & Defence
Conduct your research under academic supervision, develop your thesis and progress towards final examination and viva voce.
90 ECTSYour PhD Journey
From an initial research concept to a completed doctoral thesis and final defence.
120 ECTSPhase I · Months 1–6
Build Your Research Foundation.
Successful doctoral research begins with a strong methodological foundation.
During the first six months, you develop the research capabilities required to transform an area of professional or academic interest into a viable doctoral investigation.
Doctoral Research Orientation
Develop your research problem, questions, objectives, scope and intended contribution.
Advanced Research Methodology
Explore research philosophy and qualitative, quantitative, mixed-method and conceptual approaches.
Literature Review, Theory & Research Gap
Critically examine existing research, identify the research gap and develop an appropriate theoretical or conceptual framework.
Research Design & Data Collection
Develop a coherent research design, sampling strategy and evidence-collection approach.
Data Analysis, Ethics & Academic Integrity
Prepare for research analysis while addressing ethics, integrity, data protection and responsible research practice.
Doctoral Proposal Development
Bring your research together into a complete PhD proposal for academic review and confirmation.
Research Specialisation
Your Research Defines Your PhD.
The IBSS PhD does not rely on traditional taught specialisation subjects. Your field develops through your approved research topic and doctoral thesis.
Research fields and topics are subject to academic approval and the availability of appropriate supervision.
The Research Journey
From Research Idea to Doctoral Defence.
Research Preparation
Research methodology, literature development, research design and doctoral proposal confirmation.
Research Development
Advanced literature development, theoretical refinement and preparation for substantive research.
Evidence Collection
Undertake the approved research and build the evidence base required for your thesis.
Analysis & Interpretation
Analyse evidence and develop findings in relation to your research questions and existing literature.
Thesis Development
Integrate your research into a coherent doctoral manuscript.
Thesis Completion
Complete the thesis, respond to supervisory feedback and prepare for formal submission.
Examination & Viva
Submit your thesis, undertake the examination process and defend your research through the final viva voce.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Your Previous Experience May Be Relevant.
Experienced candidates may already have significant academic, research or professional learning relevant to doctoral research.
Through the IBSS APEL process, eligible prior learning and experience may be formally assessed against specified components of the research methodology phase.
Evidence may include previous postgraduate research study, Master’s research, publications, substantial professional research projects and other documented research experience.
100% Online
Designed for Professionals.
Undertake doctoral research without putting your professional career on hold.
The IBSS PhD combines independent research with structured academic support, enabling candidates to progress through their research journey from wherever they are based.
- Online research methodology activities
- Research and proposal development
- Individual academic supervision
- Documented progress reviews
- Digital research and thesis submission
- Online proposal defence and viva, subject to academic regulations
Admissions
Who Can Apply?
Applicants would normally be expected to hold a relevant Master’s degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification.
- Academic Qualification A recognised Master’s degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification in a relevant field.
- Research Interest An initial doctoral research concept or proposed area of research.
- English Proficiency Sufficient English-language proficiency for doctoral research and thesis writing.
- Academic Review Admission is subject to academic eligibility, suitability of the proposed research and availability of appropriate supervision.
Begin Your PhD
Ready to Begin Your Doctoral Journey?
Turn your professional and academic experience into original research that contributes to your field.