PhD in Program

Aspiring academics seeking to push the boundaries of management science will find a rigorous, research-intensive environment at Nova SBE. This four-year, full-time programme is crafted for individuals committed to producing independent, original research capable of influencing global discourse and securing publication in top-tier journals. Candidates are fully integrated into a vibrant intellectual community from day one, working closely with leading faculty mentors to hone their analytical capabilities and research methodology.

The Research-First Philosophy

The curriculum prioritizes a strong empirical and theoretical foundation, transitioning quickly from structured coursework to autonomous investigation. Beyond the core research focus, students gain institutional support to expand their academic reach through:

• International Mobility: A dedicated exchange term at prestigious partner institutions like LSE, Oxford, or the Rotterdam School of Management to foster cross-border academic collaboration.
• Active Research Culture: Mandatory participation in regular brown-bag seminars and research workshops, ensuring continuous exposure to cutting-edge developments in Economics, Finance, and Management.
• Career Mentorship: Specific training for the international academic job market, ensuring graduates are positioned to succeed as researchers and educators at the highest levels.

NOVA University Lisbon, founded in 1973 and located in Portugal’s dynamic capital region, is a modern and internationally minded institution with roughly 22,018 students, including about 3,408 international students. The university blends urban campus life with strong ties to Lisbon’s cultural and business districts, giving students easy access to internships, cultural attractions, and a lively student scene. Its relatively recent founding means NOVA emphasizes innovation, interdisciplinary study, and international collaboration.

Academically, NOVA offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs across sciences, social sciences, arts, and technology, and is recognized for research excellence in areas such as public health, economics, and engineering. Teaching often incorporates project-based work and partnerships with industry, helping students build practical skills alongside academic knowledge. Support services include academic advising, language courses, and career services geared to preparing graduates for both local and global job markets.

For international students, NOVA provides a welcoming environment with English-taught programs, orientation sessions, and assistance with housing and visas. Living in Lisbon offers a relatively affordable European experience compared with other capitals, plus excellent public transport and a pleasant climate. Whether you seek rigorous research training or practical industry connections, NOVA University Lisbon is a strong choice for students looking to study in a vibrant, internationally connected European city.