Business & Management - Research

The objective of the structured research programme in Business is to create a framework that complements and supports independent research, whilst providing milestones through which the graduate student will advance, and structured educational inputs to support and develop the student. In doing so, the student will be provided with a robust structure for guiding them through the key stages of the PhD programme towards completion. Students will be introduced to the components of advanced research and will be encouraged to actively participate in academic communication and publishing, where applicable. The rigorous nature of the structure aims to ultimately extend the student's capability to contribute to theory by developing new knowledge. Alongside exceptional research training and support, the structured doctorate in Business also aims to provide doctoral graduates with the requisite skills to engage in university-based and broader business and civil communities outside academic contexts.



The student, on registration, holds an introductory meeting with their supervisor(s) where a customized and individualized programme of research investigation is balanced with supporting taught modules.



The Programme consists of the completion of 30 credits of structured modules, completion of a written thesis and a viva voce examination. The 30 credits of structured modules will comprise 15 credits in transferrable skills and 15 credits in a subject related area. These supported modules are identified from a suite of modules that make up the structured PhD programme in business, accounting or finance. The timing of these credits will be agreed between the student and the supervisor(s).



Annual progress reviews are part of the PhD programme in business, accounting or finance and completion of requisite generic/transferable skills modules will be taken into account when assessing student progress. Students are required to complete a written thesis and viva voce examination. Students will not be permitted to submit their thesis (or equivalent) for examination without having accumulated the required amount of credits.

For entry to the PhD programmes, applicants normally require a Masters Degree (Honours). Applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level.



Minimum English language requirements: please visit Maynooth University International Office website for information about English language tests accepted and required scores. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and non-EU applicants.



Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850

Applications are open for the 2025/6 academic year. Visit our online application portal to start your application.

We are here to support you throughout the admissions process.



For queries on your postgraduate course options please contact pgstudies@mu.ie

For queries or support on your application process please contact pgadmissions@mu.ie



If you are an international (Non-EU) applicant please contact internationaladmissions@mu.ie

4 year Full-time, 6 years Part-time.

In general, there are two levels of fees payable. EU students from EU countries including Ireland pay a subsidised level of fees for both taught courses and research programmes. Tuition fees for students from outside the EU are not subsidised and are thus somewhat higher than for EU students.

PhD students generally start their programme in either September or January.

Graduates with Business PhDs usually move into consulting, senior management, and academic posts.

Information on research interests can be found at https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/school-business/our-research. Students should make direct contact with research active academics in advance of making a research proposal.


Other specialist areas


Proposals will also be considered in Human Resources Management and Marketing.