University of San Diego

What you'll study

Although the University of San Diego does not run a PhD in Business Administration (Management and Operations), a typical doctoral programme in this field at research universities focuses on advanced research in organisational theory, operations management, quantitative methods, optimisation and statistics, supply chain and logistics, service operations, decision sciences, and strategy. Students normally engage with core methodological modules (advanced econometrics, experimental methods, simulation, optimisation), topical seminars (operations strategy, lean systems, stochastic modelling), and specialised electives aligned to their dissertation topic. The curriculum emphasises original empirical or theoretical research leading to a doctoral dissertation, regular research seminars, teaching experience, and publication in peer‑reviewed journals.

Entry requirements

Entry to a PhD in Business Administration typically requires a strong academic record from a relevant bachelor’s and/or master’s degree, evidence of quantitative and research skills, and a demonstrated interest in management or operations research. Common expectations include:

• Academic transcripts: competitive undergraduate GPA and, where applicable, a master’s degree in business, economics, engineering, operations research, or a related field.
• Standardised tests: many programmes request GRE or GMAT scores, with particularly strong quantitative results prized for operations‑focused tracks.
• Research experience: prior research, publications, thesis work, or strong letters of recommendation speaking to research potential.
• Statement of purpose and research proposal: a clear outline of research interests and fit with faculty expertise.
• References: multiple academic references able to assess readiness for doctoral study.

Applicants who are interested in doctoral study but who wish to remain at the University of San Diego can build research experience through the School of Business graduate programmes, collaborating with faculty on projects, and strengthening quantitative preparation before applying to external PhD programmes.

Career prospects

Graduates of PhD programmes in Management and Operations typically follow careers in academia as faculty and researchers, securing positions in business schools and university departments. Other common career paths include senior research roles in industry (operations research, data science, analytics), leadership positions in supply chain and operations management, roles in consulting firms that require deep analytical and modelling expertise, and research positions in public policy or think tanks. The doctorate prepares graduates for roles that prioritise independent research, publication, and the supervision of student researchers.

Why study at University of San Diego

While USD does not offer a PhD in Business Administration, the University of San Diego is a private Catholic university with a recognised School of Business that provides professionally oriented graduate programmes, such as the MBA and specialised master’s degrees. Reasons to consider USD as part of a doctoral pathway include:

• Opportunities to gain research experience: work with faculty on applied projects and independent study to strengthen a doctoral application.
• Strong professional networks: proximity to diverse industries in the San Diego region—biotech, defence, technology, and logistics—supports applied research collaboration and internships.
• Small class sizes and personalised mentoring: a campus culture that can offer close faculty support for developing teaching and research skills.
• Resources for graduate students: access to institutional research support, libraries and centres that can help develop methodological and disciplinary expertise.

If your goal is a research doctorate in management and operations, consider applying directly to institutions that offer PhD or DBA programmes in the field and use USD’s graduate programmes and research opportunities to build a stronger application profile if you prefer to begin your studies locally.