The PhD Project 2026

The PhD Project is a long-running initiative in the United States that works to increase diversity in business education by encouraging and supporting individuals from historically underrepresented backgrounds to pursue doctoral degrees in business and become university faculty members. Rather than being a single university award, it is a national pathway and support programme connected to doctoral study at accredited universities.

The programme is primarily oriented toward PhD-level study in business-related disciplines such as accounting, finance, information systems, management, marketing, and related fields. Its purpose is to help participants prepare for doctoral applications, connect with faculty and peers, and navigate the path into academic careers in business schools.

Support through The PhD Project is best understood as a mix of access, mentoring, networking, and professional development. Funding itself is not typically administered as one standard scholarship package across all host universities; instead, financial support usually depends on the doctoral offer made by the university where a candidate is admitted. As a result, the value and coverage can vary by institution.

Applicants are generally expected to have strong academic preparation, an interest in business research and teaching, and the intention to pursue a doctoral programme at an eligible institution, usually in the United States. Specific eligibility rules, required documents, and timelines can vary over time and by doctoral discipline.

To apply, candidates should review the current guidance on The PhD Project's official website, explore participating business doctoral fields, and follow the programme's steps for joining events or applying for support. Because doctoral admission is handled by universities, applicants should also apply directly to relevant PhD programmes and check each institution's requirements carefully.