PhD study at the Management School

Discover the range of doctoral programmes, scholarships and funding at Lancaster University Management School.

Our PhD programmes
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Welcome to Lancaster University Management School doctoral programmes

As Doctoral Directors of Lancaster University Management School (LUMS), we are delighted that you are considering joining our doctoral community. A PhD is an exciting, challenging and rewarding journey: an opportunity to develop as an independent researcher, make an original contribution to knowledge, and transform your life and career.

At LUMS, you will join academics and doctoral researchers from around the world, bringing diverse backgrounds and perspectives together in a stimulating academic environment. Our commitment to high-quality research is reflected in REF 2021, which ranked LUMS first in the UK for research power and research environment, with 90% of our research judged world-leading or internationally excellent.

Completing a PhD takes curiosity, commitment and focus, alongside openness to guidance from your supervisors. We will support you in producing rigorous, original research and developing the skills for a fulfilling career, whether in academia or beyond. We look forward to helping you make the most of your doctoral journey.

Professor Ingmar Nolte
Professor Argyro Panaretou

LUMS Doctoral Programmes Directors

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Why doctoral research at LUMS

Undertaking your PhD at the Management School.

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Our collaborative approach

For nearly 50 years, we have helped our students test new tools and techniques in the real world. Experience a mix of teaching styles to help you grow and develop, from interactive lectures to focused group work, placements and company-based projects. The modern world needs leaders with minds of their own and we believe strongly in the value of critical thinking, so you will be encouraged to question, reflect on and challenge current practice throughout your studies.

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Links to business

We have strong relationships with the wider business community, across organisations large and small, in a range of industries and throughout the world. With LUMS, you will have the chance to work with, and for, organisations that can help you make your mark. An extensive programme of guest speakers, specialist business workshops, guest lectures and work placements keeps you tightly networked with the business world

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Our campus

Lancaster's tranquil 578-acre campus is made for learning, with the nearby city on your doorstep.

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Award winning accommodation

Our postgraduate accommodation in Graduate College includes standard and ensuite rooms, studios and flats suitable for couples or families.

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Being part of our doctoral community

The opportunities and advantages of being part of the dynamic, international, and cutting-edge research environment that is LUMS are manifold and diverse. From the doctoral community itself—spanning across the University and our international campuses—to participation in Methods North West, you will be able to carve out a path and experiences tailored to your specific interests. You will not only become a part of LUMS but also a global doctoral community, with opportunities to engage in international doctoral symposiums and workshops, and to participate in various seminar series hosted by your Department, the School, and the University.

Furthermore, you will reap the benefits of our International Visiting Scholars’ programme, where we have welcomed numerous world-leading scholars from around the globe, including Nobel Prize winners. All of this, we hope, will nurture and cultivate your intellectual curiosity and academic commitment, aiding you in establishing the academic, business, and policymaker networks you seek. These connections will enable your research to genuinely impact our society and environment. We encourage you to embrace the opportunity to thrive in our exciting and progressive setting. We look forward to welcoming you as a new member of Lancaster University Management School’s research community.

Professor Maria Piacentini

Associate Dean for Research, LUMS

Achievements of our doctoral researchers

Publications by doctoral researchers

Doctoral researchers in LUMS produce high-quality research that is published in FT50 and other reputable international journals.

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Applications and funding

Entry requirements

You can find the entry requirements for your chosen programme on the programme course page.

How to apply

Applying for a PhD programme is a simple process and we accept applicants throughout the year. Information on how to apply for a PhD.

Fees and studentships

Our studentships and funding opportunities for PhD study are available through the UK's research councils, through Lancaster University, and through various other organisations.

Funding for PhD programmes in LUMS

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