PhD in Business Administration Program of Robert C. Vackar College of Business & Entrepreneurship

1. What does a PhD degree in Business Administration entail? What can I do with this degree?
The PhD Program in Business Administration is designed primarily to prepare students for careers in research and teaching. Most graduates of the program pursue an academic career as college professors and researchers. Some also consider a career in business consulting and public policy.

2. How long does it take to complete the program?
Typical students complete the coursework in two years. After coursework, students are expected to complete a dissertation in one to two years. Most students complete the program within five years. 

3. What are the main program requirements?
The PhD in Business Administration at a minimum consists of 63 academic hours. Students complete core coursework requirements within the first two years of their training. After required coursework is completed, students take the preliminary exam in the first year and the comprehensive examination in the second-year followed by the writing and defending of the dissertation.

4. What are the areas of concentration in the program? Do you accept applications every year?
Currently, we have five areas of concentration: finance, management, marketing, information systems, or accounting. Applications are accepted annually with a Febuary 1st deadline for fall enrollment. 

5. How much does the tuition cost?
UTRGV Tuition and Fees are the second lowest in the UT System and the third lowest among all Texas public universities.  View more specific details on tuition.

7. Can I pursue this program on a part time basis?
No. All students admitted into the program need to be full time students.

8. Tell me about the application process? What are the admission criteria?
The application process involves two steps. First, application to the UTRGV graduate school needs to be completed. Second, applicants also submit required documentation for the PhD Program. Interested applicants should submit official transcripts, three letters of recommendations, a personal statement (outlining career goals), GMAT/GRE scores and resume. GMAT/GRE test scores should be within the last five years. International applicants should also submit TOEFL or IELTS (with minimum scores of 550 on paper-based, 213 on computer-based) and transcript evaluation by FCSA. A cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required for graduate admission.

7. What is the deadline for application?
The deadline for application to the PhD Program is February 1st.

8. Do you have rolling admissions? May I begin the program in the spring?
No, all applications are evaluated once a year for admission for fall enrollment. The annual application deadline is February 1st.

9. Who makes admission decisions? What criteria are considered?
Applications are evaluated by doctoral faculty and college level committee. The committee considers various criteria including the applicant’s GPA, GMAT/GRE scores, personal statement, and letters of recommendation in making admission decisions. Higher scores on standardized tests and demonstrated research potential increases the likelihood of admission to the program. Admission decisions are communicated in writing via email.

10. Do I need an MBA or other master’s degree before applying?
No. However, students joining the program without a business educational background must complete leveling or foundation courses before enrolling in PhD seminars. In general, students should have taken graduate level courses in Statistics, Economics, Accounting, Marketing, Management, and Finance. Students who lack these courses can be admitted, but will take these courses as leveling courses, which will contribute towards the beginning of their program. Leveling course requirements will be stated in writing in the letter of offer on admission.

11. What are the research requirements of the program?
All students in the program are expected to identify a concentration in a specific research area and actively work with their faculty advisors. Successful doctoral students in the program often have numerous top conference papers and refereed journal publications before leaving the program. Building a clear research agenda as well as a strong record of conference presentations and publications often results in good placement for graduating students.

12. What kind of financial assistance do you have in the program?
Admitted students are eligible to receive Research Assistantships (RAs). Assistantships are assigned on a competitive basis. Incoming applicants requesting assistantships from the college should submit their request with their application materials. Limited summer funding is usually available. In order to maintain the assistantship, the student must be in good academic standing and enrolled in nine hours as a graduate student during the fall and/or spring semester.

13. Do I need to have work experience?
No, work experience is not required for admission. However, most of our students come with some level of work and/or research experience.