School of Management and Business

Doctor of Philosophy in Business

(N/0414/8/0042) (03/28) (MQA/FA14342)

Programme Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business at MILA University is designed to advance knowledge and produce impactful research that addresses the challenges of today’s fast-changing business world. As one of the most dynamic and promising fields, business and management drive innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable economic growth across industries.

This programme equips candidates with the expertise to contribute to original and applied research that supports the evolution of Malaysia’s and the region’s business ecosystems. With a strong emphasis on analytical thinking, strategic decision-making, and resilience in the era of IR 4.0 and the digital economy, the PhD prepares graduates to tackle complex challenges and shape the future of organisations, industries, and policies.

Graduates emerge as thought leaders, policy influencers, and academic experts, ready to impact universities, corporations, governments, and global markets with research that matters.

  • Future Ready Academic & Research Training
    The PhD in Business emphasises rigorous academic and research training, combining theoretical development with advanced research methodologies. Candidates gain the skills to conduct independent, high-impact research that addresses the evolving needs of the global economy, IR 4.0, and sustainable business transformation.
  • Mentored Student Research Experience
    PhD candidates benefit from close supervision and mentorship by faculty members with strong publication records and international reputations. Enriched by workshops, visiting scholars, and interdisciplinary seminars, students enjoy a stimulating academic environment that encourages collaboration across fields such as economics, technology, and policy.
  • Career & Leadership Focused Pathways
    Graduates are career-ready leaders, equipped for impactful roles in academia, think tanks, government, and industry. The programme integrates professional development workshops on teaching, academic writing, research publishing, and conference presentations, ensuring candidates are prepared for both research-intensive and leadership-focused careers.
  • Global Connection & Recognition
    With strong international research collaborations, visiting scholars, and globally relevant research themes, the programme cultivates a broad international perspective. Through active engagement in international conferences, joint research projects, and global academic networks, doctoral candidates benefit from extensive peer connectivity. This global orientation enhances the programme’s credibility and recognition, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to the global business research community.

Progression Pathways

Entry Requirements

Master’s Degree A Master’s degree (Level 7, MQF) in related fields as accepted by the HEP Senate; OR
A Master’s degree (Level 7, MQF) in non-related fields as accepted by the HEP Senate; OR
A Master’s degree (Level 7, MQF) in non-related fields as accepted by the HEP Senate and without relevant working experience; OR
Others Other qualifications equivalent to a master’s degree (Level 7, MQF) recognised by the Government of Malaysia

 

English Requirements

Type of Examination Minimum Score
MUET Band 4
IELTS Score of 6.0
TOEFL TOEFL (IBT) 60

Programme Structure

Course Structure

  •  Research Process and Academic Writing
  • Research Design and Methodology
  • Thesis 1
  • Thesis 2

Future Pathways

Area of Application

Graduates of the Doctor of Philosophy in Business can apply their skills across a wide range of industries and roles. Key areas include:

  • Academia & Research
  • Corporate Leadership
  • Finance & Accounting
  • Marketing & Consumer Insights
  • Human Resource Management
  • Entrepreneurship & Start-ups
  • Policy & Consulting

Career Opportunities

  • University Lecturer / Professor
  • Researcher in Policy Institutes
  • Corporate Strategy Executive
  • Management Consultant
  • Business Analyst
  • Government Policy Advisor
  • Regulatory Body Officer
  • Entrepreneur / Startup Founder
  • Innovation and R&D Director
  • Academic Journal Editor or Reviewer
Intake
January, March, July and September
Duration
Full Time: Minimum: 3 Years,
Part Time: Minimum: 5 Years
Number of Credits
No given credit value

Get in touch with us now

Interested in joining our programme? Fill out the form below to submit your enquiry. Our admissions team will review your information and get back to you shortly to discuss the next steps in your application journey.

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