Executive PhD Programme

About

The Executive PhD Programme at IIM Ranchi is designed for senior executives who wish to deepen their research capabilities while continuing their professional careers. This three-year doctoral-level program is structured in an executive format, allowing professionals to pursue cutting-edge research methodologies without leaving their careers.

Our Program provides participants with the opportunity to study at IIM Ranchi and abroad at a leading international university ranked among the top management universities worldwide. This collaboration ensures a global perspective, integrating advanced business theory with real-world executive experience.

Areas of Specialization

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Who Should Apply?

• Senior professionals from industry, policy-making bodies, government, or the social sector
• Mid- to senior-level executives seeking to sharpen their strategic thinking through evidence-based insights
• Practitioners aspiring to transition into academia as Professors of Practice
• Industry leaders and policymakers who want to address complex real-world challenges
• Research-oriented professionals who wish to engage with national and international scholars

Structure

The Executive PhD Programme is designed to be completed within three years. The curriculum blends innovative research methodologies, business applications, and global exposure. It includes 3-days mandatory campus immersion in each term of first year at IIM Ranchi which provides intensive face-to-face learning, peer networking, and access to world-class research facilities. Weekend classes are conducted online (Saturdays and Sundays), ensuring flexibility for working professionals while maintaining rigorous academic engagement.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates for the Executive PhD Programme must have minimum of 5 years of full-time managerial/entrepreneurial/professional experience after graduation at the time of applying for the programme.

Academic Qualifications (Any one of the following)

• Professional Qualifications: Chartered Accountant (CA) / Cost Accountant (ICWA) / Company Secretary (CS) with a Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 55% aggregate marks or equivalent
• Four-Year Bachelor's Degrees: B.Tech / B.E. / B.Pharm or any other four-year Bachelor's degree with at least 65% CGPA marks or equivalent
• Five-Year Bachelor's Degrees: MBBS / B.Arch or any other five-year Bachelor's degree with at least 55% marks or equivalent
• Master's Degrees: M.Tech / MBA / M.Com or any other Master's degree with at least 55% marks or equivalent
• Postgraduate Diploma: A two-year postgraduate diploma in a related discipline, along with a three-year bachelor's degree (minimum 55% marks in aggregate) from a university recognised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU)
• Foreign Qualifications: An equivalent qualification from a foreign institution accredited by a legally recognized authority

Application Requirements

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Two professional referees (details required - referees will receive direct email requests)
• Professional resume
• Statement of purpose and research proposal
• Application fee: ₹5,000

Application Timeline