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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Advance Your Knowledge. Lead with Research.


Why Pursue a PhD with Royal Metropolitan

  • Direct Pathway from Advanced Research Diploma
    Our programme begins with an Executive Diploma in Advanced Research, which upon successful completion and interview, grants you eligibility to enter our fully-online PhD track, focused primarily on dissertation work.
  • Global Recognition & Academic Excellence
    Earn a PhD credential recognized internationally, backed by rigorous scholarship and aligned with high doctoral standards.
  • 100% Online & Flexible Learning
    Designed for working professionals, our PhD pathway enables you to study remotely, balancing your academic, personal, and professional responsibilities.
  • Personalised Supervision
    You’ll benefit from ongoing mentorship and guidance by experienced faculty as you formulate research questions, conduct literature reviews, and complete your dissertation.
  • Wide Range of Research Areas
    Choose your field from diverse disciplines, including but not limited to: Business Management, Leadership, Strategy, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Finance, Social Sciences, Technology & Innovation.

Programme Structure

PhaseComponents
Stage 1: Executive Diploma in Advanced ResearchTwo core modules: Philosophy & Approaches to Research and Methodologies & Methods. These courses build foundational skills in research paradigms, literature review, ethics, quantitative & qualitative methods, mixed-methods designs, and academic writing.
Stage 2: PhD DissertationAfter Stage 1, you proceed to the full PhD phase, where you conduct original research on a chosen topic, under supervision. You’ll design and execute a dissertation project that contributes new knowledge to your field.

Duration and Delivery

  • Typically 3 to 6 months for the Advanced Research Diploma stage.
  • The PhD phase (dissertation) length depends on the research topic and pace, often extending over multiple years.
  • Fully online delivery through a virtual learning platform designed for collaboration, discussion, and independent research.

Admission Requirements

  • For Stage 1 (Diploma): A Master’s degree or equivalent qualification in any discipline. Priority may be given to candidates with related research experience.
  • For Stage 2 (PhD): Successful completion of the Advanced Research Diploma, plus approval for dissertation work via proposal/interview.

Outcomes

Upon completing both stages, you will:

  • Demonstrate mastery of research methods and data analysis techniques across paradigms.
  • Be prepared to conduct independent, original research contributing to academic theory and/or professional practice.
  • Enhance your capacity for critical thinking, complex problem-solving, and scholarly writing.
  • Be equipped to assume roles in academia, research, leadership, policy, or other fields where deep analytical and research skills are essential.