The PhD in Organizational Behavior (English) at Marmara University is a doctoral programme offered by the Social Sciences Institute under the Department of Business Administration. This programme aims to train researchers and professionals who deeply understand behavior in organizations, organizational theories, human resources, leadership, and management of people in complex institutional environments. Students study topics such as organizational psychology, leadership and motivation, change management, organizational culture, human resources strategies, and research methods in social sciences. The programme is conducted in English, making it open to both domestic and international students.
Based in Istanbul — a major center for business, academia, and diverse work environments — this doctoral programme offers students access to a vibrant academic and professional setting. Marmara University provides opportunities for empirical research, collaboration with companies and institutions, seminars, and access to human-resources research networks. The programme combines academic theory with real-world organizational challenges, preparing students for careers in research, academia, consultancy, or organizational development.
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: Organizational Behavior, Leadership, Human Resources, Organizational Psychology, Change & Culture Management
- Admission modus: With admission requirement (master’s degree)
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Organizational Behavior
- Organizational Theory and Behavior Fundamentals
- Research Methods & Statistical Techniques for Social Sciences
- Organizational Psychology & Group Dynamics
- Seminar: Contemporary Issues in Organizations
Semester 2 – Leadership, Culture & Human Resources
- Leadership Theory & Motivation in Organizations
- Organizational Culture and Change Management
- Human Resources Management & Employee Relations
- Seminar: Ethics and Organizational Behaviour
Semester 3 – Specialization & Research Development
- Advanced Topics (e.g. Organizational Development, Change Management, Leadership in Global Firms)
- Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods in Organizational Studies
- Academic Writing & Publication Skills
- Research Project I (supervised empirical or theoretical study)
Semester 4 – Doctoral Qualification Phase
- Written Qualification Exam (Core Theories & Methods)
- Oral Qualification Exam
- Thesis Proposal Preparation
- Research Colloquium / Seminar Series
Semester 5 – Doctoral Research I
- Independent Thesis Research (fieldwork, case studies or data analysis)
- Data Collection and Empirical / Survey Work
- 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 Evaluation & Feedback
- Pre-Defense Preparation
- Academic Presentation / Publication Activities
Semester 8 – Dissertation Completion & Defense
- Final Dissertation Submission
- Oral Defense Examination
- Publication & Research Dissemination
- Completion of PhD Degree Requirements
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for academic careers as researchers or faculty members specializing in organizational behavior, human resources, management, or organizational psychology. They may also work in corporate human-resources departments, consulting firms, organizational development and change management teams, or international companies seeking expertise in leadership, organizational culture, and workforce dynamics. Additionally, graduates can serve as consultants, trainers, or analysts in NGOs, public institutions, or private enterprises focusing on organizational strategy and human resources. Their combined knowledge of social science research and organizational theory gives them flexibility for careers in research, academia, consultancy, and organizational leadership.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the PhD in Organizational Behavior means enrolling in a programme that blends deep academic study of organizational theories with empirical research and real-world relevance. Students benefit from experienced faculty, a research-oriented curriculum, and opportunities for collaboration with businesses and institutions. The programme helps students develop strong analytical, research, and people-management skills that are essential for organizational and academic leadership. Additionally, its English-medium instruction supports international collaboration and prepares graduates for global academic or professional settings.
Moreover, the programme covers a broad range of topics — from leadership and organizational culture to human resources and organizational psychology — giving students flexibility to align their research with their interests and real-world needs. Students engage in seminars, empirical fieldwork, and research projects that help them understand complex social and organizational dynamics. This comprehensive training positions graduates for impactful roles in academia, corporate world, consulting, or organizational development, and offers them the tools to contribute to contemporary organizational challenges.
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 Organizational Behavior English)
Göztepe Campus, Kadıköy, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 216 414 05 45
Email: ob_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
