The PhD in Management at APU is a research-based doctoral programme designed for graduates who wish to undertake original research in management, business, leadership, organisational studies, and related disciplines. Students work closely with experienced supervisors to produce a significant contribution to management knowledge through an independent doctoral thesis. The programme prepares graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, multinational corporations, and senior management consultancy.

Why Study PhD in Management at APU?

The programme offers numerous benefits for international students:

• 100% research-based doctoral programme with personalised academic supervision.
• Opportunity to conduct original research addressing contemporary business and management challenges.
• Flexible study options including On-Campus and Open & Distance Learning (ODL).
• Access to experienced supervisors with international research expertise.
• Modern research facilities, digital resources, and online supervision tools.
• Opportunities to publish research in indexed academic journals.
• International research environment with students from over 130 countries.
• Strong industry links supporting applied and interdisciplinary research.
• Preparation for leadership positions in academia, research, consulting, and industry.

Programme Structure / Research Process

The doctoral journey generally includes:

1. Selection of a research topic.
2. Identification of an academic supervisor.
3. Development and defence of a research proposal.
4. Independent research and data collection.
5. Participation in research seminars and progress evaluations.
6. Preparation of a doctoral thesis.
7. Viva Voce examination.
8. Thesis revisions (if required) and final submission.
9. Publication of required research outputs before graduation. 

Disciplines / Research Areas

Students may undertake research in a broad range of management-related fields, including:

• Strategic Management
• Leadership and Organisational Behaviour
• Human Resource Management
• Innovation Management
• Entrepreneurship
• International Business
• Marketing Management
• Digital Business
• Supply Chain and Operations Management
• Corporate Governance
• Sustainability and ESG
• Business Analytics
• Knowledge Management
• Organisational Development
• Consumer Behaviour
• Financial Management
• Technology and Innovation Management
• Public Sector Management

In addition, APU highlights specialist supervision areas such as:

• Strategy of Multinational Corporations
• Strategic Frameworks for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Technology Transfer and Innovation Models

Programme Highlights

• Ranked among the Top 2% of universities worldwide.
• 100% research-based doctoral programme.
• Flexible On-Campus and ODL study options.
• Monthly admissions throughout the year.
• Access to experienced supervisors and international research collaborations.
• Modern research facilities and digital learning platforms.
• Opportunity to publish in indexed journals.
• International student community from more than 130 countries.
• Strong emphasis on industry-relevant and interdisciplinary research. 

Career Outcomes

Graduates are prepared for senior leadership and research roles, including:

• University Lecturer
• Professor (following academic progression)
• Research Scientist
• Management Consultant
• Business Consultant
• Corporate Strategy Manager
• Organisational Development Consultant
• Innovation Manager
• Human Resource Director
• Policy Analyst
• Government Research Officer
• Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
• Chief Operating Officer (COO)
• Entrepreneur
• Corporate Trainer
• Research and Development Manager 

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students enrolled in the on-campus programme must obtain a Malaysia Student Pass before beginning their studies.

Typical requirements include:

• Valid passport
• APU Offer Letter
• Acceptance of the offer
• Tuition fee payment (where applicable)
• Master's degree certificate and academic transcripts
• English language qualification
• Passport-sized photographs
• Medical examination
• Student Pass application through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS)

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• APU offers monthly PhD intakes throughout the year, including August, September, October, November, and December 2026.
• The programme is available in both On-Campus and Open & Distance Learning (ODL) modes.
• International applicants require an IELTS score of 6.0 (or equivalent), unless exempted by APU.
• Candidates are expected to complete an original research thesis and satisfy APU's publication requirements before graduation.
• Research proposals should be developed in consultation with a prospective supervisor to ensure alignment with APU's research expertise.