University Of Stellenbosch PhD in Futures Studies

USB’s internationally accredited
PhD in Futures StudiesSpecialised research aimed at bringing about a more desirable future

Overview of USB’s PhD in Futures Studies

USB’s internationally accredited PhD in Futures Studies builds on the School’s MPhil in Futures Studies and forms part of its Futures Studies cluster of programmes. It allows students to become specialists in this field by acquiring in-depth knowledge through doctoral research. This is the only PhD degree of its kind in Africa.

Creating new knowledge

As a PhD student at USB you will be expected to pursue supervised research, culminating in a doctoral disser­tation. This dissertation must:

• Represent an original and significant contribution to the enrichment and advancement of knowledge in the chosen area
• Demonstrate originality of thought, a theoretical underpinning, relevance to the discipline and rigour in execution
• Create intellectual capital, which is the cornerstone of today’s knowledge society.

Who should enrol?

The programme is aimed at professional futurists, decision makers and strategic planners who would like to distinguish themselves through in-depth research aimed at helping people to bring about a more desirable future. It will prepare them for senior-level positions in government, public and private corporations, financial institutions, and sub-regional, regional and international organisations. It could also enable candidates to become lecturers at academic institutions.

Registration

A minimum registration period of two years is required.

Why do your PhD at USB?

Enrolling for your PhD at USB holds various benefits:

• Acquire a globally acknowledged PhD: USB holds all three international accreditations for business schools – AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA. USB is also a member of the European Doctoral Programmes Association in Management and Business Administration (EDAMBA) and the Globally Responsible Leadership Initiative’s Global Doctoral Alliance (GDA), which holds benefits and creates opportunities for USB’s doctoral students.
• Engage in research that creates employable knowledge: USB’s PhD programme seeks to develop research that is relevant to organisations in private or public sector.
• Make your research meaningful: As a signatory to the Globally Responsible Leadership Initiative’s Global Doctoral Alliance, USB is committed to incorporating the societal dimension of business and sustainability in its PhD research. The GRLI promotes responsible management education, asking PhD candidates: What kind of problem do you have in the work environment that can be changed to make the world a better place?
• Join a research community: At USB, various people are involved in your research – not only your supervisor. This leads to input and support from a diverse group of academics in a multidisciplinary environment. USB’s Research Colloquia provides a platform to engage with other PhD candidates and their supervisors. It also gives you the opportunity to present your research as it develops to this select audience and to gain insight from them.