Walden’s Ph.D. in Management is one of the few management Ph.D. programs offered online.

The program takes an interdisciplinary approach to the field of management and its influence on the development of individuals and society. You will conduct original research in a specific area of interest as you have the opportunity to learn theories, concepts, and techniques that provide the foundation for sound management decision making. This online Ph.D. in Management can help prepare you to meet the challenges and opportunities in your profession and your organization; study ways to facilitate positive social change; and help enhance your capabilities as a researcher, scholar, manager, or consultant.

An ACBSP-Accredited Management Ph.D.

ACBSP LogoWalden University’s Ph.D. in Management program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Among other benefits, ACBSP accreditation provides:

  • Validation that your program meets nationally recognized standards of quality endorsed by businesses, government, and other organizations.
  • Assurance that your program can provide you with the skills you need to compete in today’s global marketplace.
  • Recognition by employers, graduate schools, and regulatory organizations.
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  • Reaching Your Goals

    Halimi Hassan

    Halimi Hassan, Ph.D. in Management student, is learning theory and putting it into practice as he works toward his lifelong goal of a Ph.D. 
    Watch now

  • Steps to your Ph.D. in Management

    Ten Steps to Ph.D. in Management Video

    Watch this step-by-step guide to earning your online doctorate in management at Walden.

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  • Our Academic Resources

    Our Academic Resources

    “Our international students receive dedicated support from their faculty and advisors.”
    Dr. Sreeroopa Sarkar, Faculty Member

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  • Student Support Services

    Our Student Support Services

    “Help is available at your fingertips, even in different countries and different time zones.”   Samira Gumma-Swiatkowski, Graduate

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  • Curriculum

  • Tuition and Fees

  • Highlights

  • Learning Outcomes

  • Program Data

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Accounting

The Accounting specialization is designed to help accountants and auditors broaden their knowledge and business skills in various areas, including auditing, budget analysis, financial and international accounting, management accounting, accounting information system consulting, fraud examination, forensic accounting, and tax consulting and preparation services.

Note: Students entering the Accounting specialization in the Ph.D. in Management are expected to have a background in basic accounting, algebra, and calculus, which may be used in the specialization KAMs and dissertation.

Completion Requirements

  • 102 total quarter credits 
    • Foundation course (6 cr.)
    • 3 core Knowledge Area Modules (KAMs I, II, III) (36 cr.)
    • 2 specialized Knowledge Area Modules (KAMs V or VI, and VII) (24 cr.)*
    • Foundation research sequence (12 cr.)
    • Advanced research course (4 cr.)
    • Proposal, dissertation, and oral presentation (20 cr.)
  • Professional Development Plan
  • Four Ph.D. residencies to equal a minimum of 16 days

*Students may substitute three graduate-level courses or two graduate-level courses and an independent study for KAM VII with the approval of their faculty mentor and the program chair, provided that they complete a minimum of two KAMs.

Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336.

Foundation Course

Core KAMs

KAM I: Principles of Social Change

KAM II: Principles of Human Development

KAM III: Principles of Organizational and Social Systems

Foundation Research Sequence

This sequence provides the student with the background to effectively complete doctoral-level research. The sequence is composed of three online quarter-based courses:

Advanced Research Course

Select one of the following advanced research courses:

Specialized KAMs

Select either KAM V or VI. KAM VII is required.

KAM V: Financial Accounting Theory

KAM VI: Auditing and International Accounting Theory

KAM VII: Research

Dissertation

    • Course Code
    • Course Title
    • Credits

Engineering Management

This specialization allows either practicing engineers who plan a move into management or engineers who are already managers to learn the social and behavioral aspects of management.

Completion Requirements

  • 102 total quarter credits
    • Foundation course (6 cr.)
    • 3 core Knowledge Area Modules (KAMs I, II, III) (36 cr.)
    • 2 specialized Knowledge Area Modules (KAMs V or VI, and VII) (24 cr.)*
    • Foundation research sequence (12 cr.)
    • Advanced research course (4 cr.) 
    • Proposal, dissertation, and oral presentation (20 cr.)
  • Professional Development Plan
  • Four Ph.D. residencies to equal a minimum of 16 days

*Students may substitute three graduate-level courses or two graduate-level courses and an independent study for KAM VII with the approval of their faculty mentor and the program chair, provided that they complete a minimum of two KAMs.

Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336.

Foundation Course

Core KAMs

KAM I: Principles of Social Change

KAM II: Principles of Human Development

KAM III: Principles of Organizational and Social Systems

Foundation Research Sequence

This sequence provides the student with the background to effectively complete doctoral-level research. The sequence is composed of three online quarter-based courses:

Advanced Research Course

Select one of the following advanced research courses:

Specialized KAMs

Select either KAM V or VI. KAM VII is required.

KAM V: Engineering Management Quality

KAM VI: Engineering Management of Globally Competitive Goods and Services

KAM VII: Research

Dissertation

    • Course Code
    • Course Title
    • Credits

Finance Course-Based Format

In this specialization, you can develop and use financial models and theoretical tools to help gain an understanding of some of the most challenging national and international financial problems. Pursue original research and advanced knowledge in areas such as corporate finance and financial management. Analyze case studies, incorporate principles of social and behavioral research, and expand your expertise in financial theories, systems, and practices. This specialization can help prepare you for a career in private industry, international agencies, consulting, or teaching.

Completion Requirements

  • 96 total quarter credits 
    • Foundation and core courses (30 cr.)
    • Foundation and advanced research course sequence (16 cr.)
    • Specialization courses (24 cr.)
    • Proposal, dissertation, and oral presentation (26 cr.) 
  • 4 Ph.D. residencies to equal a minimum of 16 days

Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336.

Recommended Course Sequence

Finance Self-Designed Format

In this specialization, you can develop and use financial models and theoretical tools to help gain an understanding of some of the most challenging national and international financial problems. Pursue original research and advanced knowledge in areas such as corporate finance and financial management. Analyze case studies, incorporate principles of social and behavioral research, and expand your expertise in financial theories, systems, and practices. This specialization can help prepare you for a career in private industry, international agencies, consulting, or teaching.

Completion Requirements

  • 102 total quarter credits 
  • Professional Development Plan
  • Four Ph.D. residencies to equal a minimum of 16 days

*Students may substitute three graduate-level courses or two graduate-level courses and an independent study for KAM VII with the approval of their faculty mentor and the program chair, provided that they complete a minimum of two KAMs.

Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336.

Foundation Course

Core KAMs

KAM I: Principles of Social Change

KAM II: Principles of Human Development

KAM III: Principles of Organizational and Social Systems

Foundation Research Sequence

This sequence provides the student with the background to effectively complete doctoral-level research. The sequence is composed of three online quarter-based courses:

Advanced Research Course

Select one of the following advanced research courses:

Specialized KAMs

Select either KAM V or VI. KAM VII is required.

KAM V: Corporate Financial Theory

KAM VI: Investment and International Finance

KAM VII: Research

Dissertation

    • Course Code
    • Course Title
    • Credits

Human Resource Management

In this specialization, you can apply the latest theories and analytical tools to conduct original research and add to the body of knowledge in areas such as organizational effectiveness, conflict resolution, human capital development, and strategic human resource management. Explore the global and multidisciplinary aspects of human resource management and enhance your ability to develop solutions for strategic human resource initiatives. This specialization can help prepare you for senior positions in private industry, nonprofit organizations, consulting, or teaching.

Completion Requirements

  • 96 total quarter credits 
    • Foundation and core courses (30 cr.)
    • Foundation and advanced research course sequence (16 cr.)
    • Specialization courses (24 cr.)
    • Proposal, dissertation, and oral presentation (26 cr.) 
  • 4 Ph.D. residencies to equal a minimum of 16 days

Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336.

Recommended Course Sequence

Information Systems Management

This specialization provides an integrative approach to managing information systems in today's data-rich environment. Study how to derive maximum value and innovation from investing in organizational systems, and build the leadership skills essential to many successful technology executives. Broaden your understanding of all aspects of e-commerce systems, security management and risk assessment, and system design. Develop your expertise in leading and managing people, processes, and systems, and contribute to positive social change by helping to improve performance through information systems management.

Completion Requirements

  • 96 total quarter credits 
    • Foundation and core courses (30 cr.)
    • Foundation and advanced research course sequence (16 cr.)
    • Specialization courses (24 cr.)
    • Proposal, dissertation, and oral presentation (26 cr.) 
  • 4 Ph.D. residencies to equal a minimum of 16 days

Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336.

Recommended Course Sequence

Leadership and Organizational Change Course-Based Format

In this specialization, you will examine leading-edge as well as traditional models of leadership and organizational structures. You will study ways to promote effective leadership development, strengthened interpersonal relationships, and successful group and organizational dynamics, all of which can lead to improved performance in organizations. Explore ways to mobilize change and work effectively in cross-cultural environments.

Completion Requirements

  • 96 total quarter credits 
    • Foundation and core courses (30 cr.)
    • Foundation and advanced research sequence (16 cr.)
    • Specialization courses (24 cr.)
    • Proposal, dissertation, and oral presentation (26 cr.)
  • Four Ph.D. residencies to equal a minimum of 16 days

Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336.

Recommended Course Sequence

Leadership and Organizational Change Self-Directed Format

In this specialization, you will examine leading-edge as well as traditional models of leadership and organizational structures. You will study ways to promote effective leadership development, strengthened interpersonal relationships, and successful group and organizational dynamics, all of which can lead to improved performance in organizations. Explore ways to mobilize change and work effectively in cross-cultural environments.

Completion Requirements

  • 102 total credits 
    • Foundation course (6 cr.)
    • 3 core Knowledge Area Modules (KAMs I, II, III) (36 cr.)
    • 2 specialized Knowledge Area Modules (KAMs V or VI, and VII) (24 cr.)*
    • Foundation research sequence (12 cr.)
    • Advanced research course (4 cr.)
    • Proposal, dissertation, and oral presentation (20 cr.)
  • Professional Development Plan
  • Four Ph.D. residencies to equal a minimum of 16 units

*Students may substitute three graduate-level courses or two graduate-level courses and an independent study for KAM VII with the approval of their faculty mentor and the program chair, provided that they complete a minimum of two KAMs.

Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336.

Foundation Course

Core KAMs

KAM I: Principles of Societal Development

KAM II: Principles of Human Development

KAM III: Principles of Organizational and Social Systems

Foundation Research Sequence

This sequence provides the student with the background to effectively complete doctoral-level research. The sequence is composed of three online quarter-based courses:

Advanced Research Course

Select one of the following advanced research courses:

Specialized KAMs

Select either KAM V or VI. KAM VII is required.

KAM V: Leadership Development

KAM VI: Organizational Change Models

KAM VII: Research

Dissertation

    • Course Code
    • Course Title
    • Credits

Operations Research

This specialization (often referred to as management science or by the acronym OR/MS) prepares you to understand new and innovative approaches to operations management.

Completion Requirements

  • 102 total quarter credits 
    • Foundation course (6 cr.)
    • 3 core Knowledge Area Modules (KAMs I, II, III) (36 cr.)
    • 2 specialized Knowledge Area Modules (KAMs V or VI, and VII) (24 cr.)*
    • Foundation research sequence (12 cr.)
    • Advanced research course (4 cr.)
    • Proposal, dissertation, and oral presentation (20 cr.)
  • Professional Development Plan
  • Four Ph.D. residencies to equal a minimum of 16 days

*Students may substitute three graduate-level courses or two graduate-level courses and an independent study for KAM VII with the approval of their faculty mentor and the program chair, provided that they complete a minimum of two KAMs.

Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336.

Foundation Course

Core KAMs

KAM I: Principles of Societal and Cultural Development

KAM II: Principles of Human Development

KAM III: Principles of Organizational and Social Systems

Foundation Research Sequence

This sequence provides the student with the background to effectively complete doctoral-level research. The sequence is composed of three online quarter-based courses:

Advanced Research Course

Select one of the following advanced research courses:

Specialized KAMs

Select either KAM V or VI. KAM VII is required.

KAM V: Deterministic Operations Research Techniques

KAM VI: Stochastic Operations Research Techniques

KAM VII: Research

Dissertation

    • Course Code
    • Course Title
    • Credits

Self-Designed

If you have highly focused learning and professional interests, you may undertake a Self-Designed specialization within the existing KAM curriculum structure of the General Program. This allows maximum flexibility in designing a program that will most closely match your professional goals.

Completion Requirements

  • 102 total quarter credits
    • Foundation course (6 cr.)
    • 3 core Knowledge Area Modules (KAMs I, II, III) (36 cr.)
    • 2 specialized Knowledge Area Modules (KAMs V or VI, and VII) (24 cr.)*
    • Foundation research sequence (12 cr.)
    • Advanced research course (4 cr.)
    • Proposal, dissertation, and oral presentation (20 cr.)
  • Professional Development Plan
  • Four Ph.D. residencies to equal a minimum of 16 days

*Students may substitute three graduate-level courses or two graduate-level courses and an independent study for KAM VII with the approval of their faculty mentor and the program chair, provided that they complete a minimum of two KAMs.

Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336.

Foundation Course

Core KAMs

KAM I: Principles of Social Change

KAM II: Principles of Human Development

KAM III: Principles of Organizational and Social Systems

Foundation Research Sequence

This sequence provides the student with the background to effectively complete doctoral-level research. The sequence is composed of three online quarter-based courses:

Advanced Research Course

Select one of the following advanced research courses:

Specialized KAMs

Select either KAM V or VI. KAM VII is required.

KAM V: Organizational Dynamics and Development

KAM VI: Decision Sciences

KAM VII: Research

Dissertation

    • Course Code
    • Course Title
    • Credits

2012-2013

Curriculum Component  Requirements  Cost 
Self-Directed Specializations  98–102 total quarter credit hours  $4,760 per quarter 
Course-Based Specializations  96 total quarter credit hours  $605 per quarter credit hour 
4-Day Residency Fee

4 during your program

(Residency 2 and Residency 4 may be virtual)

$1,090 each, plus travel, lodging, other expenses

Virtual: $1,190 each

Technology Fee  per quarter  $110
Application Fee  per program  $50 

2013-2014 (Effective May 6, 2013)

Curriculum Component  Requirements  Cost 
Self-Directed Specializations  98–102 total quarter credit hours  $4,760 per quarter 
Course-Based Specializations  96 total quarter credit hours  $625 per quarter credit hour 
4-Day Residency Fee

4 during your program

(Residency 2 and Residency 4 may be virtual)

$1,125 each, plus travel, lodging, other expenses

Virtual: $1,225 each

Technology Fee  per quarter  $110

Tuition and fees are subject to change.

Call 1-866-492-5336 for information about a full range of options for:

As a student in Walden’s management Ph.D. program, you can choose when, where, and how you learn thanks to our online format and MobileLearn®. Through this education technology, you can listen to coursework on your MP3 player, access your classroom from your iPhone, download coursework to your laptop, and more.

Find out more about what defines Walden’s Ph.D. in Management program:

10 Steps to your Ph.D. in Management

Watch the short presentation, “10 Steps to Attaining Your Ph.D. in Management,” for an overview of the steps required to complete your doctoral degree in management at Walden. Discover the benefits of the online program; learn how to apply; and explore the program’s specializations, learning models, and dissertation process.

Download Presentation (PDF)

Meet Students and Alumni

Walden’s Ph.D. in Management students and graduates can offer unique insights into learning at Walden. Their firsthand experiences provide a glimpse of what you can expect from a doctoral degree program that takes an interdisciplinary approach to the field of management.

These students and graduates offer feedback about how their experience in Walden’s online Ph.D. in Management program has made a positive impact on their lives and society:

Judith Warren, Ph.D. in Management Student 

“If you’re interested in a rigorous academic experience that will qualify you to make a contribution in your field, consider Walden University.”

Dr. Gregory Campbell, Ph.D. in Management 2012 Graduate

“I am proud to report that I am currently leading a project to develop an executive leadership program that incorporates EI and a full range of leadership skills for a federal law enforcement organization. My Walden experience has truly transformed me into a scholar-practitioner and enhanced my professional knowledge, skills, and abilities.”

Dr. David Finch, Ph.D. in Management 2010 Graduate

“I am a strong proponent of Walden’s vision of a scholar-practitioner. As a full-time academic who is engaged is the scholarly community, I think the traditional silos between academia and ‘the real world’ are relics of the past. Walden’s social change mandate is not only unique, it is inspiring. It challenges every one of us to not only be better scholars but to be better citizens.”

Read Full Story

Anna Siyavora, Ph.D. in Management 2010 Graduate

 “I’m from Phoenix, Ariz., but I’m originally from Zimbabwe. I am the CEO and president of New Hope for Living in Phoenix, and I am already using my Ph.D. to effect positive social change. The organization serves more than 100 children with autism. I’m in the process of trying to open a school in Zimbabwe for children who have disabilities.”

Bob Duhainy, Ph.D. in Management 2010 Graduate

“As a result of earning my Ph.D. at Walden University, I was able to pursue my dream and become a dean of a university in Boston, Mass.”

Vernotto McMillan, Ph.D. in Management 2010 Graduate

“I’ve been a manager at NASA the entire time I attended Walden University. Gaining skills through the Ph.D. in Management program actually made my job a whole lot easier.”

Michael P. Haydock, Ph.D. in Management 2008 Graduate

“Walden’s Ph.D. program’s format and rigor produces the environment for a better outcome. The professors make for the skills and coaching part of the environment and they will only let you fail if you have not done the work or have not made the attempt to succeed. The library is second to none. That leaves it pretty much up to students—how students pursue their dreams is probably the deciding factor in success.”

Mary Schreiber, Ph.D. in Management 1996 Graduate

“I was a mother of three children balancing work and family and strived for advanced education. I needed a curriculum that challenged my intellect and allowed me to maintain the balance of work and family. Walden was the answer!”

Which Doctoral Program is Right for You?

When selecting between Walden’s Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.) and Ph.D. in Management programs, consider which features are right for your learning style and career aspirations. Here are some main differences between the programs to consider as you make your decision. Your enrollment advisor can provide further guidance about these programs.

The Ph.D. in Management may be your best choice if you want to:

  • Deepen my knowledge and understanding of the field of management and to become an expert in one of its subfields.
  • Participate in a traditional doctoral dissertation that results in a scholarly paper.
  • Conduct original academic research with the intent of adding to scholarship in the field.
  • Transition into a faculty teaching position in higher education.
  • Publish research as an expert author.
  • Serve as a leader and expert within my organization.

The D.B.A. program may be your best choice if you want to: 

  • Deepen my understanding of the functional disciplines of business administration.
  • Participate and design a doctoral study based on a real-world project within my organization or business.
  • Execute research-based business strategies within an organization or business.
  • Influence the practical application of management in a leadership position.
  • Assume a leadership position within my organization.
  • Influence my industry as a business consultant.

Which Format is Right for You?

Walden offers you two formats for completing the Ph.D. in Management degree program. To help you determine the format that best fits your learning style and needs, we offer the following comparison.

The course-based format may be your best choice if you want to:

  • Follow a structured program with a specific plan for completion.  
  • Collaborate with peers and faculty members through online discussions and residencies.
  • Pursue a specialization in Finance, Human Resource Management, Information Systems Management, or Leadership and Organizational Change.

The self-directed format may be your best choice if you want to:

  • Structure your own flexible program with the support of a faculty mentor.
  • Immediately focus research papers on your area of interest.
  • Pursue a Self-Designed specialization or a specialization in Accounting, Engineering Management, Finance, Leadership and Organizational Change, or Operations Research.

Steps to your Ph.D. in Management

Ten Steps to Ph.D. in Management Video

Watch this step-by-step guide to earning your online doctorate in management at Walden.

Watch Now

Graduates of this program will be prepared to:

  1. Articulate the evolution of the field of management and its relationship to human and societal development.
  2. Analyze various theories, concepts, and tools that seek to explain and provide the basis for management decision-making.
  3. Evaluate management and systems-thinking principles at the core of the design and evolution of organizational and social systems.
  4. Appraise the relevance of seminal, current, and emerging management theories and practices from an interdisciplinary and social-change perspective.
  5. Assess identified gaps in the current research literature in the field of management and in their chosen areas of specialization.
  6. Design efficacious and ethical research that addresses identified gaps in the body of knowledge in management and related sub-fields.
  7. Advance the body of knowledge through original research in the field of management and chosen areas of specialization via the application of a variety of appropriate methodology, design, and analysis methods.
  8. Communicate effectively to academic and general stakeholders the results of original research that advance the field of knowledge in management and chosen specializations and contribute to positive social change.

What’s It Like to Learn Online?

Get a firsthand look. View the Video.

Walden is committed to providing the information you need to make an informed decision about where you pursue your education. Please find below detailed information for the Ph.D. in Management relating to the types of occupations this program may lead to, completion rate, program costs, and median loan debt of students who have graduated from this program.

Occupations
Program Completion Rate
Program Costs
Median Loan Debt

Occupations—This program generally prepares students to enter the types of occupations listed below. For more information on these specific occupations, visit www.onetonline.org.

In addition to this list, there are other career options that graduates of this program may choose to pursue. To enter certain professions, students may need to satisfy specific additional requirements established by state and/or professional organizations in addition to completing their program.

View examples of our student and alumni accomplishments in their chosen fields.

Occupation Name*  Occupation Code* 
Computer and Information Systems Managers  11-3021 
Financial Managers  11-3031 
Industrial Production Managers  11-3051 
Human Resources Managers  11-3121 
General and Operations Managers  11-1021 
Management Analysts  13-1111 
Accountants and Auditors  13-2011 
Financial Specialists, All Other  13-2099 
Business Teachers, Postsecondary  25-1011 

*The “occupation name” is a general job title. “Occupation code” refers to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Standard Occupation Classification.

Program Completion—The program completion rate is the percentage of students who graduated between July 1, 2011, and June 30, 2012, who completed this program in the normal completion time.

The program completion time may vary depending on transfer of credit and the pace at which a student chooses to complete the program. Because many of the students in this program are working adults and need to balance personal and professional commitments, our academic advisors can help establish an appropriate program of study that enables each student to complete this program in a time frame that works best for him or her.

Rate  Percentage 
On-time completion rate  49.3% 

Note: Completion rates reflect graduates from the Knowledge Area Module instructional model which is no longer offered in this program.

Program Costs—The total program costs are the estimated average costs over the duration of the program, excluding any scholarship or tuition reductions, for students completing the program on time. These costs can vary based on the number of credits. Typically, tuition and fees are subject to change annually.

Expense  Cost 
Tuition and Fees  $64,860-111,500
Books and Supplies  $3,604-4,558
Room and Board  Not applicable 

View cost per credit in the Tuition and Fees section.

Median Loan Debt—The following is the median amount borrowed by all students who completed the program between July 1, 2011, and June 30, 2012. The amount borrowed may include tuition as well as non-institutional costs such as estimated living expenses.

Loan  Amount 
Title IV Program Loans  $87,550
Private Educational Loans  $0 
Institutional Financing Plan  $0

For assistance in deciding which specialization fits your goals, request information or speak with an enrollment advisor by calling 1-866-492-5336. A list of international toll-free phone numbers is available for students outside the United States.

Learn firsthand about the School of Management doctoral programs by viewing these free, hour-long Web seminars.