Operations Management (PhD) at Northwestern University

Programme overview

The PhD trains students to apply theoretical, data-driven or empirical analysis to how work and processes are organized and managed, covering both strategic operations design and tactical process execution. The programme is intentionally small and uses an apprenticeship model with faculty on research projects.

Faculty: Kellogg School of Management | Department: Operations | Study mode: full-time | Location: Evanston, IL, United States

What you will study

Years 1-2 involve 3-4 courses per quarter, including operations research, microeconomics, econometrics and stochastic modeling and optimization, followed by a comprehensive oral exam (end of year 1) and a qualifying research paper (end of year 2). Thesis proposal is due by end of year 3, with dissertation and final oral exam in the final year.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Strong quantitative skills; recommended coursework in calculus, linear algebra, optimization, probability and statistics; interest in economics. Students come from engineering, computer science, mathematics, operations research and statistics. A master's degree is not required (about half of matriculating students have one) and prior research experience is not required.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Graduate applications for 2026-27 open September 15, 2026; deadlines vary by programme. The Graduate School application fee is $95 and nonrefundable, paid by credit or debit card.

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