Vision and Framework for Doctoral Studies
The Department of Business Administration of the University of the Aegean places particular emphasis on doctoral studies as the primary setting for the development of original scientific research, the cultivation of academic thought, and the training of highly qualified researchers.
Doctoral studies within the Department aim to:
- generate new knowledge with scientific and societal value;
- promote research that addresses contemporary issues in business administration, public governance, and sustainable development;
- develop researchers with a strong academic background, an international outlook, and a firm commitment to the principles of academic ethics and integrity.
The Department seeks to provide a supportive and high-quality research environment based on close collaboration between doctoral candidates and faculty members, transparent procedures, and respect for academic freedom.
The organization and operation of doctoral studies are governed by the current Doctoral Studies Regulations of the Department of Business Administration.
The following sections provide concise information regarding the institutional framework, procedures, and operation of the Department’s doctoral studies programme.
General Information
Doctoral Studies in the Department of Business Administration constitute the third cycle of higher education and are designed to foster high-level original scientific research within the broader field of business administration. Successful completion of the programme leads to the award of a Doctoral Degree (PhD), corresponding to Level 8 of the Hellenic and European Qualifications Frameworks.
Doctoral studies are offered free of charge and are conducted in accordance with the applicable Doctoral Studies Regulations and the relevant legislative framework in force.
Governance and Academic Support
The bodies responsible for the organization and operation of Doctoral Studies are:
- the Senate of the University of the Aegean; and
- the Department Assembly of the Department of Business Administration.
The Department appoints a Doctoral Studies Coordinator, who oversees the smooth operation of the programme, monitors the progress of doctoral candidates, and coordinates the annual progress review process.
Eligibility for Application
Applications for admission to doctoral studies may be submitted by:
- holders of a Master's Degree awarded by a higher education institution in Greece or abroad; or
- graduates of integrated study programmes of at least five years' duration (300 ECTS credits).
In certain cases, the Department Assembly may establish additional academic requirements or require the successful completion of specific courses.
Application and Selection Procedure
Interested candidates may apply throughout the academic year or in response to calls for applications announced by the Department. Applications must be accompanied by the required supporting documentation and a concise research proposal outlining the topic, methodology, and objectives of the proposed doctoral dissertation. Applications are evaluated by a three-member faculty committee, which submits a reasoned recommendation to the Department Assembly regarding the acceptance or rejection of each application.
Supervision and Doctoral Research
For each approved doctoral candidate, a three-member advisory committee is appointed, including a principal supervisor. The committee provides academic guidance, monitors the progress of the research, and evaluates the development of the dissertation on an annual basis. The doctoral dissertation must constitute a substantial and original contribution to knowledge. International research activity, participation in academic conferences, and publication of scholarly work are strongly encouraged.
Duration of Studies
The minimum duration for the completion of a doctoral dissertation is three (3) years, while the maximum duration is six (6) years. Extensions or suspensions of studies may be granted upon submission of a justified request and approval by the competent academic bodies.
Rights and Responsibilities of Doctoral Candidates
Doctoral candidates are required to:
- submit annual progress reports;
- collaborate closely with their supervisory committee; and
- comply with the principles of academic ethics and research integrity.
In addition, doctoral candidates may participate in research projects, be eligible for scholarships and research funding opportunities, and undertake teaching support duties within the Department.
Completion and Award of the Doctoral Degree
The doctoral dissertation is publicly defended before a seven-member examination committee. Following successful evaluation, the candidate is formally awarded the Doctoral Degree (PhD). The final dissertation must be deposited in the University's Institutional Repository as well as in the National Archive of PhD Theses.
Note: The content of this page is updated regularly as part of the ongoing maintenance and development of the Department of Business Administration website, with the aim of ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and transparency of the information provided.