The Doctor of Philosophy (Management) is Australia's highest research degree in the management discipline, requiring candidates to design and execute an original, independent research project that makes a substantial contribution to management knowledge. Offered across the management and commerce category (ASCED 08), this qualification spans a broad range of specialisations including organisational behaviour, strategic management, human resource management, entrepreneurship, sustainability, supply chain management, international business, innovation, corporate governance, and leadership. The program typically takes three to four years full-time and is assessed almost entirely through the production and examination of a doctoral thesis, though coursework in research methodology and professional development is also commonly required in the early stages.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Management) is designed for individuals who are passionate about advancing theoretical and practical knowledge in business and management. Ideal candidates include those who aspire to academic and research careers, but also ambitious professionals seeking to develop deep expertise that positions them for senior leadership, policy advisory, or consulting roles. The degree suits people who are intellectually curious, self-directed, and capable of sustained independent inquiry. It draws students from diverse backgrounds including commerce, economics, psychology, sociology, law, and public administration.

Graduates of this qualification are sought by a wide range of employers across academia, government, and industry. Australian universities and research institutions are primary employers, particularly for those pursuing lecturer, senior lecturer, and professor pathways. Beyond academia, employers include federal and state government agencies, management consulting firms (including the Big Four), ASX-listed corporations, peak industry bodies, international development organisations, think tanks, and non-profit entities. The qualification signals not only deep subject matter expertise but also advanced analytical, communication, and project management capabilities that are transferable across sectors.

To gain entry to a Doctor of Philosophy (Management) in Australia, applicants typically need to hold an Australian Honours degree (First Class or Upper Second Class) in a relevant discipline, or a Masters by Research degree in a related field. Some programs accept a Masters by Coursework with a substantial research component — typically at least one-third of the degree by research — achieved at a high grade (generally a distinction average of 70% or above). In some cases, an equivalent combination of academic achievement, professional experience, and research outputs such as peer-reviewed publications may be considered. Applicants must also identify a viable research topic and demonstrate that the institution has a suitably qualified supervisor available to support that area of inquiry. A written research proposal is commonly required as part of the application, outlining the research question, theoretical framework, and proposed methodology.

International applicants must satisfy English language proficiency requirements. This is typically demonstrated through an IELTS Academic score of at least 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0), or a TOEFL iBT score of at least 87, though specific requirements vary by institution. Some universities offer conditional entry with the requirement to complete an approved English language course prior to commencing the PhD. Eligible domestic students may be funded under the Australian Government's Research Training Program (RTP), which can cover tuition fees for the standard duration of candidature. Many institutions also offer RTP stipend scholarships to support living expenses during candidature. Full-time candidates are generally expected to commit 35–40 hours per week to their studies, with a standard candidature duration of three to four years.