The PhD Program in Management at Mississippi State University offers a unique blend of rigorous training in core management disciplines – strategic management, organizational behavior, and human resource management – alongside specialized expertise in the fields of family business and entrepreneurship. Mississippi State is recognized globally as a leader in family business research, and this strategic focus creates a cohesive thread that connects the work of our faculty and doctoral students. It also allows our program to rival those at much larger institutions while preserving the close, collaborative environment of a smaller cohort (typically 5–8 students).
Our program’s intimate size fosters strong mentorship and active collaboration between students and faculty. Doctoral students are deeply engaged in the research process from early on and routinely co-author conference presentations and peer-reviewed journal articles. Most students will have at least one publication accepted in a quality academic journal before beginning their dissertation. This early research productivity positions them strongly on the academic job market, and our graduates consistently secure faculty roles at respected universities with competitive compensation packages. Recent tenure-track placements include the University of Louisville, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
We are proud to offer a collegial and supportive environment where students can hone both research and teaching skills under the guidance of internationally recognized scholars – particularly in the area of family business and entrepreneurship. The integration of specialized and general management training equips our graduates with the knowledge and versatility required for long-term success in academia.
Admission Process
Prospective students must apply through MSU's Office of the Graduate School. To be considered for admission for the upcoming fall semester, applications should be completed by January 15. Admission to the program is highly selective, as we seek individuals who demonstrate strong academic potential and clear alignment with the program’s research focus.
Admission Considerations
We seek applicants with strong academic records, typically including high undergraduate/master’s GPAs and competitive GMAT/GRE scores (generally above 600 or its GRE equivalent). However, our admissions process is holistic: we carefully evaluate the full range of each applicant’s qualifications, including academic background, professional experience, research interests, and personal motivation.
Given the program’s strong emphasis on research, we strongly recommend prior exposure to statistics, as students will engage in rigorous quantitative coursework during their first year.
We consider a variety of criteria in the evaluation of PhD applicants, including, but not limited to:
- GMAT or GRE scores, including quantitative, verbal, and written components
- Undergraduate and graduate fields of study
- GPA on undergraduate and/or graduate coursework
- Work experience
- Research experience
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Interviews for finalists
Contact
For specific information about the Management PhD program at Mississippi State University, please contact the advisor, Dr. Jennifer Sexton.
Visit MSU's Office of the Graduate School website for information on admission requirements for US students and International students.