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 the Doctoral Director for Lancaster University Management School (LUMS), I am delighted that you are considering undertaking doctoral studies with us. Studying for a PhD is a challenging and rewarding journey, and one that has the potential to change your life. As you consider taking on this journey, I would encourage you to browse our web pages to get a sense of the breadth and depth of academics and other doctoral researchers within the School; they come from all over the world and from a wide range of different backgrounds. Our researchers are all here with the aim of making a contribution to the body of knowledge of their discipline. That’s what a PhD is and this is what we will help you to achieve if you decide to join us.

Our commitment to high-quality research is reflected in the lively research environment of LUMS, the exceptional quality of which has been demonstrated by our performance in the research evaluation exercises carried out since 1996. This excellence has been confirmed by the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021), which recognised LUMS as the top business school in the UK for 'research power' for the second time, with 90% of our research activity being judged to be world-leading or internationally excellent. As a doctoral researcher, you will be a vital component of the research community within which this excellent performance is generated, and our exceptional research environment (rated 1st in the UK) supports doctoral researchers in producing the very best work of which they are capable.

Attaining your PhD is not easy – nor should it be if it is to reflect the quality and standards which, we hope, will lead you to choose to study at LUMS. You will need to be committed and focused – able to take responsibility for your own learning - while being open to guidance from your supervisors. You will have many claims on your time, yet you will need to prioritise your PhD to complete it within a sensible timeframe and to a high standard. As well as completing your PhD, we will encourage you to access the wealth of resources designed to prepare you for becoming an active member of the broader research community and for developing a successful post-doctoral career, whether in academia or elsewhere. Wherever your doctoral journey leads you, a Lancaster PhD is worth striving for, and I am sure you would find your time with us both rewarding and happy.

Professor Igor Goncharov

LUMS Doctoral Programmes Director

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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’ program, 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

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

Events

Join us at an upcoming event to discover more about our doctoral programmes

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