Doctor of
Philosophy [PhD]
The PhD program at the School of Management, Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), provides a rigorous and research-intensive pathway for aspiring scholars, academics, and senior professionals who wish to contribute to advanced knowledge in management, innovation, and leadership.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree is designed to prepare students for careers in academic research and teaching.

Discover the AIT PhD

Established as a cornerstone of AIT’s commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation, the PhD in Management program at the School of Management offers an unparalleled platform for aspiring scholars, educators, and thought leaders. Our program will equip you with the research capabilities and academic rigor to address complex challenges in today’s dynamic global environment.
Rooted in Asia and globally connected, our PhD program attracts a diverse cohort of talented researchers from across the region and beyond—including Thailand, Vietnam, India, Bangladesh, China, and Europe. Our graduates go on to contribute significantly as university faculty, policy advisors, innovation leaders, and senior executives in leading organizations.
Our program emphasizes original, high-impact research in areas such as digital transformation, artificial intelligence, sustainable business, and inclusive economic growth. With dedicated supervision from distinguished faculty, access to generous scholarships, and opportunities for global research collaboration, we are committed to helping you achieve excellence in your doctoral journey.
I warmly invite you to explore how the AIT School of Management PhD program can help you shape new frontiers of knowledge and make a lasting contribution to academia, business, and society.
We look forward to welcoming you to AIT.
Dr. Muhammad Junaid
Director, PhD
Why Choose AIT's PhD?
Impactful Research
Bridge theory and practice. Tackle real-world issues across Asia and beyond.
Flexible Learning
Hybrid live classes or on-campus classes on the weekend—ideal for working professionals.
Clear Path to Publication
Coursework in year one only. Focuses on research and publishing thereafter.
Our Alumni Say
Curriculum Structure
Required Courses (9 Credits)
-
Approaches of Qualitative Research
-
Methods of Qualitative Research
-
Foundations of Management Research
-
Management Research Methods and Writing
-
Data Strategies & Hypotheses Testing
-
Building Models that Link to Theory
Special Study (3 Credits)
PhD students are required to complete a 3-credit research specialization study. In this course, students will collaborate with their supervisor on a topic of interest that aligns with their research focus. The study will be customized to meet the student's specific needs. It will involve a thorough understanding and critical review of the theories and research within the chosen area of specialization. Additionally, students will be required to prepare a review paper based on published research.
Dissertation (72 Credits)
The dissertation is designed as a self-guided study, allowing students to explore their research interests independently without the constraints of formal coursework. Throughout the dissertation process, students must engage in regular meetings with their supervisor and committee members. These discussions provide valuable insights, guidance, and feedback, ensuring students stay on track and effectively develop their ideas into a comprehensive academic work.
Ph.D. Degree Requirements
A total of 84 credits consists of 12 credits of coursework, which may include 3 credits of Special study and 72 credits of dissertation.
-
Complete a minimum of 12 credits coursework and maintain a cGPA of not less than 3.25 (usually within the first 3 terms).
-
Complete a doctoral dissertation (72 credits). Once you have completed all of the courses and dissertation credit requirements, you will no longer need to register. You will need to enroll each term until you graduate.
-
-
Defend the dissertation at an oral examination.
-
Obtain a satisfactory evaluation of the dissertation from the External Examiner.
-
Have at least one scientific paper based on the dissertation published in or accepted by an international refereed journal where the student is the first author before the final examination.
Ph.D. Program Committee
-
The chairperson (supervisor) will work with the student on their research to form the program committee at the beginning of the third term of the study.
-
The committee should consist of a minimum of three members, including the supervisor, who will be its chairperson. One member should be from outside the academic program or school. In cases in which the committee is composed of two co-chairpersons, it should have at least two additional members.
Admission
& FEES
To be eligible for admission to the PhD program, an applicant must:
-
Have strong academic records (both undergraduate and graduate) and usually hold a four-year bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree, preferably with a combination of coursework and thesis work, from an institution of good standing, acceptable to AIT. The minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (cGPA) requirement for admission to the doctoral program is 3.50 or equivalent at the Master’s degree level.
-
Submit a brief dissertation research proposal outline, including the required research facilities.
-
English Proficiency Requirement: AIT-EET:6 or IELTS-Academic:6 (writing 6) or TOEFL IBT: 80 (writing 21-23) or PTE Academic: 62-73 (Writing Score). For more information regarding English requirements:https://www.ait.ac.th/admissions/eligibility/
Intake
-
Two entries/Year (January & August)
-
Application Deadline: 30 June (for overseas applicants, requiring an educational visa) and 25 July (for other applicants)
Fees
-
Tuition Fees: 1,484,000 Thai Baht (84 Credits)
-
For more information regarding tuition & fees: https://ait.ac.th/tuition-and-fees/