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Department of Management

Ph.D. in Business Administration

Program Information

The Ph.D. in Business Administration program provides an in-depth study at the intersection of technology and operations, covering theoretical foundations, emerging research trends and advanced technologies. The goal of the program is to prepare students to develop expertise in quantitative research methodologies, conduct high-impact research in information systems and supply chain management, publish in top-tier academic journals and secure faculty positions at research-focused universities. The attainment of these goals in the program is primarily measured by coursework performance, comprehensive exam performance, the quality of the dissertation and placement at research-oriented institutions.

Graduates may pursue faculty positions at colleges and universities, preferably research-oriented ones, or pursue industry research positions (in R&D, management science, analytics or operations roles).

Most classes/seminars are typically face-to-face on the Clemson campus, with the typical time to complete a degree being 4 to 6 years.

Admission requirements where they differ from University requirements, particularly expectations related to prior experiences:

  • Bachelor's or master's in business, engineering, economics or related fields with a minimum GPA of the undergraduate degree of 3.0/4.0 and a minimum GPA of the graduate degree of 3.5.
  • GMAT above 600 or equivalent GRE score.
  • English TOEFL 85 or equivalent with IELTS (This is waived if your country's primary language is English, or your bachelor's or master's degree was earned through instruction in English.).
  • Statement of Purpose outlining research interests and career goals.
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Two Letters of Recommendation from faculty familiar with the applicant's research potential.
  • Resume/CV with relevant academic and industry experience; industry experience is desired.

Note: The graduate program handbook reflects the most up-to-date (tentative) curriculum for applicants to the Ph.D. in Business Administration program. The proposed updates reflect a more integrated structure between the historically separate Supply Chain/Operations and Information Technology concentrations and are pending formal approval through the curriculum process this fall.

Please see the graduate program handbook for more detailed information about cost, course and timeline information.

Contact Aadhaar Chaturvedi, Ph.D.
Department of Management
Department of Management | 418 Wilbur O. and Ann Powers Hall, Clemson, S.C. 29634