The PhD in Marketing (English) at Marmara University is a doctoral programme offered by the Social Sciences Institute under the Department of Business Administration. This programme aims to develop experts in marketing theory and research, with a strong focus on contemporary consumer behavior, digital marketing, brand management, market research methods, and international marketing dynamics. Students engage in rigorous academic study and empirical research to understand markets, consumers, and strategic marketing issues. The programme is conducted in English, making it accessible to both domestic and international applicants.
Located in Istanbul — a major commercial, cultural, and economic hub — this doctoral programme provides students with a vibrant environment to study and research marketing issues relevant both in Turkey and globally. Marmara University offers access to academic resources, research opportunities, and connections with industry and business networks that support practical and scholarly outcomes. The programme combines theoretical depth with real-world relevance, preparing graduates to work in academia, consultancy, business strategy, or research-oriented roles in marketing.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Standard period of study: 8 semesters (typical structure for four-year undergraduate background)
- Location: Istanbul
- Study Type: Doctorate (full-time, research-oriented)
- Admission semester: Fall semester only
- Area of study: Marketing Theory, Consumer Behavior, Digital Marketing, Brand Management, Market Research, International Marketing
- Admission modus: With admission requirement (master’s degree, department evaluation)
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Marketing Research & Theory
- Advanced Marketing Theory & Consumer Behavior
- Quantitative Methods & Statistics for Marketing Research
- Research Methods in Business & Management
- Seminar: Contemporary Issues in Marketing
Semester 2 – Digital & Strategic Marketing Analysis
- Digital Marketing & Social Media Strategies
- Brand Management and International Marketing
- Market Research Methods & Data Analysis Techniques
- Seminar: Ethics and Consumer Behavior
Semester 3 – Specialization & Research Development
- Elective Topic I (e.g. International Marketing, Advanced Consumer Behavior, Service Marketing)
- Elective Topic II (e.g. Marketing Analytics, Behavioral Marketing, Sustainable Marketing)
- Academic Writing & Publication Skills
- Research Project I (supervised empirical or theoretical study)
Semester 4 – Doctoral Qualification Phase
- Written Qualifying Exam (core marketing theory & research methods)
- Oral Qualifying Exam
- Dissertation Proposal Preparation
- Research Colloquium / Seminar Series
Semester 5 – Doctoral Research I
- Independent Thesis Research (qualitative or quantitative)
- Data Collection or Fieldwork / Survey Design and Execution
- Doctoral Seminar I
- Advisor Progress Review
Semester 6 – Doctoral Research II
- Thesis Writing (Intermediate Stage)
- Doctoral Seminar II
- Conference or Workshop Participation
- Research Article Preparation
Semester 7 – Dissertation Development & Review
- Advanced Thesis Writing
- Advisory Committee Feedback & Revision
- Pre-Defense Preparation
- Academic Presentation / Publication Activities
Semester 8 – Dissertation Completion & Defense
- Final Thesis Submission
- Oral Defense Examination
- Publication & Research Dissemination
- Completion of PhD Degree Requirements
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this programme are prepared for academic careers as researchers or faculty members in marketing, business, consumer behavior, or related fields. They may also work in corporate strategy departments, marketing research firms, consulting agencies, brand management teams, or international companies requiring high-level marketing expertise. Additionally, graduates can serve as market analysts, consumer insights specialists, digital marketing strategists, or consultants in public and private sectors. Their combination of advanced marketing knowledge, research skills, and international perspective makes them competitive for roles in academia, industry, and global business networks.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the PhD in Marketing means joining a programme that brings together strong academic theory and real market practice. Students learn from experienced faculty and take part in a research-focused curriculum designed to improve critical-thinking skills. The programme’s English-medium education helps students take part in international discussions and understand global marketing trends. Istanbul’s dynamic business environment also supports practical learning and exposure to real marketing problems. Students gain both academic and applied knowledge throughout their studies.
Moreover, the programme offers many areas of specialization such as digital marketing, consumer behavior, international marketing, and brand strategy. Students can choose the topics that match their personal interests and career goals while developing strong analytical and research skills. Through seminars, field studies, and dissertation work, they learn how to study consumers, analyze markets, and understand business decisions. The programme also encourages teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities. Graduates become ready to work in global companies, universities, or consulting firms.
Contact Information
Marmara University – Student Advisory Service
Göztepe Campus
34722 Kadıköy, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 216 414 05 45
Fax: +90 216 338 65 65
Email: info@marmara.edu.tr
Department of Business Administration – Programme Contact (PhD Marketing English)
Göztepe Campus, Kadıköy, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 216 414 05 45
Email: marketing_phd_eng@marmara.edu.tr
International Office – Marmara University
Göztepe Campus
34722 Kadıköy, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 216 777 17 00
Fax: +90 216 777 17 99
Email: international@marmara.edu.tr
