PhD in October 2026

Tuition fees for PhD in October 2026 are 22,479 USD per year.

Engage with a research-intensive environment where 78% of business research has been rated as 3* and 4* in the latest Research Excellence Framework. The PhD programme at Aston Business School is tailored for those aspiring to careers in academia or high-level industry research, offering a vibrant community that includes a dedicated research society and the BSS Annual Doctoral Conference.

Research-Led Expertise

Our doctoral researchers benefit from the Small Business Charter Award-winning environment at a school deeply embedded in interdisciplinary themes. Whether your interests lie in Accounting & Finance, Marketing & Entrepreneurship, or Business Analytics, you will be supported by expert supervisors in your chosen department. Students are provided with access to the BSS PhD Hub for skills development and can access up to £1,500 in funding to support conference presentations and professional development, ensuring your work reaches both academic and practitioner audiences.

Aston University in Birmingham is a career-focused public research university with a central campus and a long tradition of linking education to industry. Founded from technical roots in 1895, Aston combines academic study with practical experience and is known for strong employability outcomes. The urban campus places students close to business, cultural and transport hubs, and a multicultural student community contributes to a friendly, supportive atmosphere.

Aston emphasises applied learning, professional placements and partnerships with employers, so many programmes integrate a placement year or live industry projects. Facilities include modern lecture spaces, specialised labs and student services that support academic success and wellbeing. Small-group teaching and strong student support ensure international students have access to language help, academic workshops and career guidance tailored to the UK labour market.

Student life blends campus convenience with Birmingham’s vibrant cultural scene, offering clubs, societies and volunteer opportunities to build networks and practical skills. The university’s careers team helps with CVs, internships and graduate recruitment, while accommodation and welfare services ease the transition to study in the UK. Applicants should explore course accreditation, placement options and scholarship possibilities early, and connect with Aston’s international advisers to plan applications and arrival logistics.