PhD Programme

London Business School offers a well-established academic PhD programme widely regarded as one of the most innovative and rigorous in Europe. The normal length of the programme is three to four years of full-time study leading to the award of a PhD degree from the University of London. Further details of the purpose, design and content of the programme are available from The PhD Programme.

Doctoral research in system dynamics takes place within the broad framework of the policy and strategy themes described in Research in Business Dynamics.

Doctoral students are normally selected from the pool of applicants and assigned to one of the School's academic subject areas (see the PhD Programme for a complete listing of areas). If admitted, students then pursue their doctoral work within the academic framework and course requirements set by their subject area 'home'. Students in system dynamics can choose between Decision Sciences and Strategy as their home base. Since the subject naturally straddles these two discipline areas, there is unique scope for PhD training that combines the latest thinking in both strategy and modelling, taught by leading exponents of these merging fields.

Applicants for system dynamics should have a BA or BSc with a good grade point average, specifically a 2.1 from a British university, a 3.5 GPA (out of 4) from an American university or a 'distinction' from a continental European university. While a masters degree is not required, it is a distinct advantage. In the past successful applicants have come from a variety of backgrounds, but a degree in business and/or quantitative methods is strongly recommended. Applicants must demonstrate specific interest in business problems and quantitative modelling methods and an appreciation of policy and strategy. Preference will be given to candidates committed to an academic career, combining research and teaching. Applicants must be fluent in English, both written and spoken. Non-native English speakers will be required to take the TOEFL test.