The PhD in Business Administration program at Lincoln Memorial University offers an academically rigorous pathway for professionals seeking advanced expertise and a focus on scholarly contributions to the fields of Business Analytics, Management, or Marketing. This 66-credit hour, fully online program is structured to prepare graduates for impactful careers in academia, research, and leadership roles.
The curriculum begins with 12 credit hours of foundation courses focusing on essential business theories and practices. Candidates with an MBA or business-related master’s degree may transfer up to 12 credit hours of equivalent coursework to fulfill this requirement. The program also includes 12 credit hours of business core courses that provide advanced knowledge in critical business areas, 15 credit hours of specialized concentration courses tailored to the chosen discipline, and 15 credit hours of research methods courses designed to equip students with the skills needed to conduct rigorous, high-quality research. The program culminates in 12 credit hours of dissertation credit, during which students work closely with their dissertation committee to produce original, impactful research that contributes to their field.
Delivered in a cohort model, with a maximum of six (6) credit hours per semester, the program fosters collaboration and a supportive academic environment. With a strong focus on preparing graduates for roles as educators and researchers, this program equips students to excel in academic institutions and other research-driven organizations.
Apply to the Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration (PhD) Program!
Applicants must submit the online application for admission, application essays, the $50 application fee, a current resume including professional references which may be checked, official transcripts showing the completion of a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree, official transcripts showing the completion of a regionally accredited Master of Business Administration (MBA) or business-related master's degree with a cumulative GPA of a 3.5, and official transcripts of all other undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate/professional course work from regionally accredited institutions.
International students must have a minimum score of 70 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or a six (6) on the IELTS exam. In cases where a foreign student is otherwise qualified for admission to the program, but his/her TOEFL score indicates the need for additional English language instruction, he/she might be admitted conditionally to the program pending satisfactory completion of the necessary courses.
If an applicant, domestic or international, has completed their bachelor’s degree in a country other than the United States, the applicant is required to submit a degree evaluation report from a reputable credentialing service (WES – World Education Services, https://wes.org/) that demonstrates degree and course equivalency. The official report for each degree evaluation report must be submitted directly from the credentialing service and provided to the School of Business; Graduate
Department; 421 Park 40 North Blvd., Knoxville, TN 37923.
The admission decision is based on an evaluation of all application materials submitted by the individual. The following are criteria utilized in the decision process:
2. Previous work experience
3. Undergraduate GPA
4. Graduate GPA (MBA or business-related master's degree)
5. Specific course work completed
6. Writing Sample
7. Reference check
*If possible, please send transcripts electronically for the time being to ensure timely receipt on behalf of LMU School of Business.
