Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
The following are some frequently asked questions relative to the PhD program at the Sobey School of Business:
Is the program for full-time or part-time students?
The PhD program is a full-time commitment. PhD students have full-time status. However, the course work is structured such that students can complete their classroom requirements during the May-June time frame, with final assignments being due in the fall. Directed studies that can be taken either on campus or at a distance during the fall and winter periods.
How competitive is the selection process?
The selection process is very competitive. Typically, only five students are admitted each year.
How do I identify potential supervisors?
The Faculty section within the PhD program identifies professors who are teaching and supervising PhD current students. By reviewing this list, and the more complete list of professors in the Faculty and Scholarship section of the Sobey School of Business web site, you can identify those who share your area of interest.
Is the program accredited?
Yes, the program has been accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International. In fact, during the accreditation visit, AACSB International representatives described the Sobey PhD as innovative and exciting.
What are the program fees?
There is a tuition cost. The current program fees can be viewed here. Students who are not in full-time employment may qualify for doctoral fellowships in the amount of $15,000 annually to help defray these costs.
What are graduates doing with the Sobey PhD?
Primarily our graduates (including some who have yet to graduate) are pursuing careers in teaching, and several have already been hired by such institutions as Acadia University (Nova Scotia), Dalhousie University (Nova Scotia), Mount Allison University (New Brunswick), Mount St. Vincent University (Nova Scotia), Nippissing University (Ontario), Trent University (Ontario), the University of Lethbridge (Alberta), the University of Prince Edward Island (PEI), the University of Ottawa (Ontario) and several others in Canada, the United States, and the Republic of Georgia. Graduates might also work in consulting, the public or private sectors in senior level positions.
How long does the program take to complete?
The program is designed to be completed in 48 to 60 months. Coursework can be completed within 15 months of enrollment, and comprehensive exams must be completed no later than 28 months into the program. The remaining time in the program will vary depending on the nature of the dissertation research.
Is the GMAT or GRE a requirement?
Yes. GMAT is required with minimum score of 600.
Do you admit students prior to May 1st?
No. We only have one entry point and that is May 1st of any given year.
Do you grant conditional or early acceptances to the program?
No. The admission process takes place in late February following the February 1st application deadline and is highly competitive.
How soon can I expect to hear if I have been accepted into the program?
We normally contact people in early March.
What can I expect if I am accepted into the program?
If you are successful you are required to complete an acceptance form. Once you have completed the acceptance form and no later than one month before the start of the program, you will receive a list of advanced readings (see individual course outlines). You will be expected to have read all the advanced reading and be fully prepared to engage in the program from day one of the program.
