Alberta School of Business PhD Program
Ever dreamt of learning alongside some of the nation’s top scholars, researchers and forward thinkers? You’re in the right place. Led by a diverse faculty of dedicated researchers renowned for their intellectual and academic excellence, graduates from our world-class PhD program are recognized as distinguished experts in their subject areas.
Why choose the Alberta School of Business PhD program?
The Doctor of Philosophy in Business program at the University of Alberta is designed to prepare students for a research-focused career in academia. The program provides opportunities for each student to work closely with our world-renowned faculty to develop their own research portfolio. The Alberta School of Business is a welcoming and supportive environment where our students can learn, grow, succeed and lead with purpose.
Program Information
Immerse yourself in the Alberta School of Business PhD program, where rigorous research training, hands-on mentorship and close collaboration with Canada’s top scholars empower you to become a leading expert in your field. With six specializations and five years of funding, this program equips you to excel in a dynamic academic career.
NEW! Business Economics
Learn to conduct applied research that solves the defining economic challenges of our time. The new specialization in Business Economics trains researchers to tackle critical issues impacting Canada and the global community—bridging the gap between macro-level international trade and localized urban/real estate economics.
- Research Areas: Housing affordability, supply chain resilience, tariffs, mass transit, environmental economics, and more...
- Gain a front-row seat at our annual Rocky Mountain Urban and Real Estate Conference and access exclusive doctoral internships through our Cities Institute.
- The first cohort will start in September 2027; applications open September 1, 2026.
PhD Program Overview
We educate students to become high-quality research scholars in their business discipline. Our full-time PhD program is delivered in person, and incoming students are provided with five years of funding to allow them to develop their skills, conduct research, and excel in the program and their fields.
Program Specializations
The Alberta School of Business and PhD Program offers six specializations. Our small class sizes allow PhD students to foster close dynamic bonds with their classmates and mentors.
New Application Deadline
January 5: For All Specializations
The Program admits students to enter in Fall term. Complete applications that meet eligibility criteria and received by January 5 are given full consideration. Applications open September 1.
Program highlights
Our program is home to talented researchers who bring diverse perspectives and a shared commitment to advancing knowledge. With opportunities to tailor their research methods and specializations, our students work closely with faculty mentors to build unique, impactful research portfolios that push the boundaries of business scholarship.
Student Spotlights
The Alberta School of Business launched a new initiative featuring current PhD students in which they briefly describe their academic journey, current research and why they joined the school.
Research and Publications
Designed to prepare students for a research-oriented career, the program provides opportunities for each student to work closely with faculty to develop her/his own research portfolio.
PhD Program Anniversary
As the Alberta School of Business PhD Program celebrates its 40th anniversary, it stands as a testament to decades of innovation, research excellence, and its enduring impact on shaping business academia for generations to come.
PhD Students' Research Conference
An annual conference that brings together faculty, postdoctoral fellows, PhD students and visitors for a day of collaboration, networking, learning and inspiration.
November 27, 2026 5-40, Business Building - Conference Program & Abstracts (Link will be provided when available)
- Conference Schedule (Link will be provided when available)