Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Doctor Of Philosophy

A research-focused doctorate designed for individuals seeking to contribute original knowledge to their field.

 

Program Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at American Management University is a research-oriented doctoral program designed for individuals seeking to develop advanced expertise and contribute to academic or professional knowledge.

The program emphasizes independent research, critical analysis, and the development of original work within a chosen field of study.

Who This Program Is For

This program is ideal for:

  • individuals interested in research and scholarly work
  • professionals seeking to deepen theoretical expertise
  • those interested in contributing new knowledge to their field
  • individuals pursuing advanced academic or analytical work

Key Highlights

  • Doctoral-level research degree
  • Focus on original research and theory
  • Independent study under academic supervision
  • Development of a dissertation
  • Flexible structure for working professionals

What You Will Develop

Students develop advanced competencies in:

  • research design and methodology
  • critical analysis and evaluation of theory
  • academic writing and publication
  • independent scholarly inquiry
  • contribution to knowledge in a chosen field

Program Structure

The PhD program is structured around independent research supported by academic supervision.

Students engage in:

  • advanced research preparation
  • literature review and analysis
  • development of a dissertation

The final requirement is the completion and defense of an original research dissertation contributing to the field.


PhD vs Professional Doctorates 

Unlike professional doctorates such as the DBA, Ed.D., or DPS—which focus on applying knowledge to real-world challenges—the PhD emphasizes the creation of new knowledge through original research.

This makes the PhD particularly suited for individuals interested in research, analysis, and theoretical advancement.

Career Pathways

Graduates of the PhD program may pursue opportunities in:

  • research and analysis roles
  • consulting and subject-matter expertise
  • academic or teaching-related opportunities (subject to local requirements)

Note: Outcomes may vary depending on individual experience, institutional requirements, and local regulations.

Admission Requirements

Applicants typically:

  • hold a master’s degree
  • demonstrate readiness for advanced research

Call to Action

Contribute to Knowledge and Research

How to Apply

The world needs top-level leaders to take charge of companies, non-profits, and government agencies. Stand out from the rest with a doctoral degree that is geared toward making you a success.

PhD Curriculum – Coursework and Research Track 

Core Courses 

DBA, Ed.D, Strategic Leadership CurriculumCore Courses

30-33 

Approved Electives

Approved Electives

6

   
   
   
   
   
   
   

 

Electives can be transferred in or taken from any of AMU’s master’s programs or doctoral programs if not already in your core curriculum.

 

 

Total Core Units 

36-39 

 

Research Courses 

Course ID 

Course 

Credits 

DOC 901

Proposal

DOC 902Literature Review3

DOC 904

Research Methods

3 

DOC 910 

Results

3 

DOC 911

Conclusion

3 

DOC 950

Defense

6 

   
   

 

 

 

 

Total Research Project Units 

21

 

 

 

 

Total PhD Units 

57-60

 

PhD Curriculum –  Research Only Track 

 

Courses 

Course ID 

Course 

Credits 

DOC 930

Doctoral Proposal

12 
DOC 931Literature Review12

DOC 932

Research Methods

6

DOC 933

Results

6

DOC 934

Conclusion

6

 

Dissemination Options

 

 DOC 940Presentation 6
 OR DOC 941Publication 6

 

Final Assessment Options

 

 DOC 950

Defense12

 OR DOC 951

Conference Presentation

12

 

Total PhD Units 

60