Go beyond traditional management research
The PhD in Entrepreneurship and Organization at the Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business prepares researchers to advance knowledge in entrepreneurship and organizational studies.
The first program of its kind in Canada, the Conrad School’s PhD in Entrepreneurship and Organization offers emerging entrepreneurship researchers the unique opportunity to study alongside our world-class faculty within Waterloo’s distinctive innovation ecosystem.
The program equips students to conduct independent scientific research in the domain of Entrepreneurship and Organizations. It builds on the fundamental theoretical foundations of organizational behaviour and strategic literature and is different from traditional Management PhD programs, as it applies an entrepreneurial lens and studies behaviour in entrepreneurial contexts.
Program structure
The PhD program includes intensive coursework, a comprehensive exam, a thesis proposal, and rigorous research work.
Students will gain a strong understanding of the strengths and limitations of a wide range of quantitative and qualitative methods, as well as theories used in entrepreneurship research, while also developing their skills to carry out their own independent research.
This program is offered full-time only, on campus, and takes 12 terms (4 years) to complete.
In addition to the above four courses offered through the Conrad School, students will also be required to successfully complete two graduate-level method or data analysis courses available through other departments at the University of Waterloo.
Milestone requirements
PhD Comprehensive Examinations
Students are required to meet the University-level PhD Comprehensive Examination minimum requirements, with certain noted differences that are specific to the Faculty of Engineering Comprehensive Examination minimum requirements:
Review the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar for more information.
Thesis
As part of the degree requirements, each student will present their thesis proposal to a Thesis Examination Committee. The exam will include a critical assessment of students’ thesis proposal based on a written report provided in advance.
The Committee will examine the student’s understanding of the proposed research, suggested theoretical framework, methods, and whether the proposed research makes an original contribution to the candidate’s academic discipline.
The thesis must contain original research which makes a distinct contribution of knowledge to entrepreneurship and organization research.
Research
Students will accomplish independent and original research work. Working closely with an academic supervisor, the work will involve both theoretical and empirical components.
The program will focus on entrepreneurship and organization. However, within this area, students can focus on several areas of research.
Securing a supervisor before applying is not required but is strongly recommended. Review faculty research areas to identify potential supervisors whose interests align with your proposed research, and contact them directly to discuss your research interests and potential fit.
Explore the research currently being conducted at the Conrad School for more details.