Ph.D. │ Doctor of Philosophy
Become a recognised expert in your field
online│anywhere│anytime│36 months or less│fully funded for ICAN members
Benefits of a Ph.D. for you
You will become
a recognized expert
with the highest level
of academic education
Gain critical insight
into the specific
problems you face
in your work
Strengthen the skills
you use daily to overcome current and future challenges and goals
You will deepen your critical thinking skills and learn to see reality from different perspectives
Experienced tutors
and a supervisor to help you focus on your goals and unlock your potential
You will learn to conduct scientific research aimed at developing new theories and knowledge
Study Ph.D. in a nutshell
- 100% flexible study
- 15 minutes per day (Microlearning)the most effective method for adult students
- Length of study36 months or less
- Completion of study9 modules, dissertation preparation and defense
- Language of studycontent of educational videos in English (with subtitles in other languages)
written outputs (including a dissertation) in English
Content of the Ph.D. study
1. Specialization
and field of study
from the specializations
2. Mandatory optional modules
3. Research
modules
for all specialisations
4. Preparation
of the dissertation
of an experienced supervisor
5. Defense of the dissertation
the examination board
6. Obtaining
your Ph.D. degree
of the dissertation
1. Specializations and focus of the Ph.D.
You choose one specialization from the list, from which you will prepare and defend your dissertation
Ph.D. Management
Become an expert in the field of management and dive into the depths of management, leadership and entrepreneurship.
Under the guidance of our experienced supervisors and other experts you will discover the secrets of how these disciplines work.
You will gain a comprehensive overview of the latest research methods and trends.
You will collaboratively formulate your research questions and hypotheses for the success and benefit of your dissertation.
We will guide you through scientific research issues and help you design and implement quality research depending on the dissertation objectives.
You will become a recognized expert who sets the direction and pushes the boundaries of knowledge.
Discover and develop your potential with the Ph.D. Management and make your mark in the world of business and science.
Ph.D. Marketing
The world of marketing has changed beyond recognition in recent years.
Become a top expert in marketing, immerse yourself in the fascinating world of advanced research and discover the secrets of successful marketing communications.
Under the guidance of our experienced supervisors, you will learn to precisely formulate problems, hypotheses and research questions that will lead you to new insights.
We will guide you through the issues of scientific research and help you prepare and conduct quality research depending on the objectives of your dissertation.
Specialization Ph.D. Marketing will help you gain the knowledge and skills that will take you to the top of the marketing world, become a leader in your field and open the door to unlimited possibilities.
Ph.D. Human Resources
Strategic human capital management is key to the success of any organization.
Top HR professionals can connect the needs of employees with the vision and goals of the company so that human resources become the driving force behind development and company growth.
Their task is to set processes and strategies that will make the most of each individual's potential and link it to the short and long-term goals of the organization.
This strategic approach at the highest level of human resource management is what distinguishes successful companies from mediocre ones.
Investments in human capital always pay off many times over.
Under the guidance of our experienced supervisors, you will formulate your research questions and hypotheses for the success and benefit of your dissertation.
We will guide you through the scientific research issues and help you prepare and conduct quality research depending on the dissertation objectives.
You will become a recognized expert in the field of HR, setting the direction and pushing the boundaries of knowledge.
Ph.D. Project Management
Become a project management expert and take your career to the next level.
Our experts will give you the knowledge and skills to successfully lead multidisciplinary teams and apply the latest project management methodologies.
You will learn to effectively diversify risks, implement innovations and optimize key processes.
Gain a competitive advantage and become a sought-after expert in project management.
Under the guidance of our experienced supervisors, you will formulate your research questions and hypotheses for the success and contribution of your dissertation.
We will guide you through the scientific research issues and help you prepare and conduct quality research depending on the dissertation objectives.
By studying the Ph.D. in Project Management, you will become a recognized expert who sets the direction and pushes the boundaries of knowledge.
Ph.D. Finance
Become an expert in finance and financial management.
Under the guidance of our experienced lecturers you will develop your analytical talent and learn to think critically about economic reality.
You will be able to challenge established truths, formulate original hypotheses about the causes and consequences of economic phenomena and test them rigorously.
You will support your conclusions with analyses and research.
Under the guidance of supervisors, you will formulate your research questions and hypotheses for the success and contribution of your dissertation.
We will guide you through the scientific research issues and help you prepare and conduct quality research depending on the dissertation objectives.
With a Ph.D. Finance degree, you will become a sought-after expert who can reveal what others cannot see and offer unique insight into the complex world of economics and finance.
Take advantage of this unique opportunity to take your career to the next level.
Ph.D. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Become a top expert in artificial intelligence and push the boundaries of what's possible with our Ph.D. Artificial Intelligence (AI)!
At a time when artificial intelligence is moving the world and opening up unsuspected possibilities, this field is the fastest growing area for your career and personal development.
With our program, you will reach the absolute peak and become a sought-after expert who can use the latest technologies to achieve breakthrough results.
Under the guidance of our experienced supervisors, you'll formulate research questions and hypotheses that will advance not only your own success, but the entire Artificial Intelligence industry.
We will guide you through the entire scientific research process and provide you with the utmost support to design and implement a cutting-edge research project that will be a real asset to the field and your career.
The Ph.D. degree in Artificial Intelligence that you will obtain upon successful completion of the program will be a clear confirmation of your exceptional competencies in this dynamically developing field and will open the door to career opportunities in the market.
Become part of an elite group of experts who are setting the course for the future of artificial intelligence and changing the world for the better.
Ph.D. Sustainable and Inclusive Leadership
In today's dynamic and constantly changing business environment, sustainability and inclusion have become absolutely essential concepts.
Companies are under increasing pressure from the public to act responsibly and morally throughout their value chain.
They are currently facing challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices and limited resources.
In this turbulent era, the ability to lead a team with an emphasis on social and environmental sustainability becomes indispensable for any manager.
Under the guidance of our experienced supervisors, you will formulate research questions and hypotheses that will ensure the success and contribution of your dissertation.
We will guide you through the pitfalls of scientific research and support you in developing and implementing a quality research project that reflects the goals of your dissertation.
With a Ph.D. in Sustainable and Inclusive Leadership, you will be prepared to take on leadership positions in progressive companies and become an initiator of positive change in business.
Become a leader who can harmoniously combine economic prosperity with respect for our planet and people.
2. Mandatory optional modules
Choose 3 modules (in addition to your chosen specialization) according to your needs and goals
Strategic Management
Explore the world of strategic management and equip yourself with the knowledge and skills to take you and your business to the next level.
1. Strategic Thinking - Learn how to analyze and create long-term plans for your company's success.
2. How to Make Strategic Thinking a Habit - Learn techniques and methods to help you incorporate strategic thinking into your daily work life.
3. Marketing Fundamentals - Learn key marketing principles and strategies to effectively communicate with your target market.
4. Digital Marketing Trends - Discover the latest trends and technologies in digital marketing to help you stay competitive.
5. Finance Basics - Learn how to manage your company's finances, from basic financial statements to advanced financial analysis.
6. Strategic Human Resource Management - Understand how to effectively manage and develop human resources to achieve your organization's strategic goals.
Sustainability, Business, and Corporate Culture
In this module you will focus on the key aspects that will help you become an effective, respected and inspirational leader, able to lead your team and company to long-term success.
1. Influencing Skills for Leaders and Managers - Learn how to effectively influence and motivate your team to achieve their goals.
2. Key Perspectives of Effective Leaders - Gain valuable insights and perspectives that characterize successful leadership.
3. Using Questions to Foster Critical Thinking and Inquiry - Learn how to ask questions that stimulate creativity and deep thinking in your teams.
4. Building Credibility as a Leader - Discover techniques to earn and maintain your team's trust.
5. 11 Inactions That Will Destroy Your Reputation as a Leader - Avoid mistakes that can damage your reputation and credibility.
6. Skills for Building Stronger Working Relationships - Develop relationships that foster collaboration and effectiveness.
7. Shaping Company Culture as a Manager - Learn how to create and maintain a positive and productive work environment.
8. Onboarding New Employees as a Manager - Learn best practices for effectively integrating new team members.
9. Leading with Calm during Change and Crisis - Learn how to maintain team stability and trust during uncertain times.
10. Body Language for Leaders and Managers - Discover how nonverbal communication can strengthen your leadership.
11. Talking About Mental Health Like a Leader - Learn how to approach mental health topics openly and sensitively within your team.
Leadership
In this module, you will focus on skills and techniques that will help you become a leader who is able to collaborate effectively and lead your team to success.
1. Leadership Essentials - Get a solid foundation in leading people and learn the key principles of effective leadership.
2. Leadership Styles and Models - Explore different leadership styles and models to determine which best suits your team and situation.
3. Collaborative Leadership - Learn how to create a culture of collaboration and foster teamwork in your organization.
4. The Best Lessons from the Worst Bosses - Learn from the mistakes and failures of bad leaders and translate those experiences into valuable lessons for your own leadership.
5. Science-Backed Habits for Modern Leadership - Discover habits and strategies that are backed by science and that will help you be an effective modern leader.
6. Skills for Leading the Future of Work - Prepare for the future of work by gaining the skills needed to lead in a rapidly changing work environment.
7. AI Challenges and Opportunities for Leadership - Explore how AI is impacting leadership and how you can harness its potential to strengthen your team and organization.
Coaching and Mentoring
This module will guide you through key techniques and skills that will enable you to become an excellent coach and mentor, able to lead your team to success and continuous improvement.
1. Coaching for Continuous Improvement - Learn how to use coaching methods to support continuous improvement in your team and organization.
2. Coaching in Action for Leaders and Managers - Gain practical coaching skills and tools you can apply immediately in your role as a leader or manager.
3. Coaching and Employee Development - Discover how to effectively coach and develop your employees to reach their full potential.
4. Peer Coaching for Leaders, Managers and Teams - Learn how to use peer coaching to enhance collaboration and development within your team.
5. Coaching Your Team to Learn, Grow and Develop - Learn strategies to motivate your team to continually learn, grow and develop personally.
6. Coaching for Results - Focus on techniques and methods that lead to specific and measurable results.
7. Creating a Coaching Culture - Learn how to create and maintain a culture in your organization that supports coaching and continuous development.
Communication
This module will teach you the key skills and techniques that will enable you to excel in effective communication, lead and inspire your team to achieve great results.
1. Communication Skills for Modern Management - Learn the key communication techniques needed for successful leadership in today's dynamic world.
2. Persuasive Manager Communication - Learn how to communicate your ideas and instructions clearly and accurately to avoid misunderstandings.
3. Leadership Communication in the Work Process - Learn how to communicate effectively as a leader directly in the context of everyday work activities.
4. Active Listening for Better Leadership Communication - Improve your active listening skills to enhance your ability to effectively lead and motivate your team.
5. The Manager's Guide to Difficult Conversations - Learn how to handle difficult and challenging conversations with confidence and empathy.
6. Interpersonal Communication Tips - Discover small but effective tips for improving interpersonal communication in your organization.
7. Confident Communication for Introverts - Learn strategies to communicate confidently and effectively even if you are an introvert.
8. Communication Tips - Learn practical tips and tricks to help you improve your communication skills.
Team Management
In this module, you will learn key strategies and techniques for successfully leading and managing teams to help you achieve high performance and satisfaction among your team members.
1. Managing Teams - Learn the fundamentals of effective team management that will enable you to achieve better results.
2. Top 10 Behaviors That Lead to Team Success - Discover the most important behaviors and practices that promote success and cohesion in your team.
3. Building Your Team's Learning Agility - Learn how to increase your team's ability to learn quickly and adapt to new challenges.
4. Leading Your Team Through Change - Learn strategies to effectively lead your team through periods of change and uncertainty.
5. Help Your Team Prioritize What Matters Most - Learn techniques to help your team focus on the most important tasks and goals.
6. Promote employee engagement - Discover ways to increase engagement and motivation among your employees.
7. Manager's Guide to Effective Meetings - Learn how to conduct effective and productive one-on-one meetings with your team members.
8. How to Provide Feedback You Can Actually Use - Gain the skills to provide constructive and useful feedback.
9. Managing Conflict in a Team - Learn how to effectively resolve and prevent conflict in your team.
10. How Popular Leaders Retain Top Talent - Discover strategies to retain top talent and strengthen your employee loyalty.
Globalization and Diversity
This module will prepare you for the challenges and opportunities associated with a global and diversified work environment.
You will learn how to effectively manage remote teams, foster an inclusive culture and manage the dynamics of hybrid working in the modern working world.
1. Fundamentals of Telework - Learn the key principles and practices for effective teleworking.
2. Managing Virtual Teams - Learn how to successfully lead and motivate teams working in different locations.
3. Hybrid Work and Mindfulness - Learn strategies for maintaining balance and effectiveness in a hybrid work environment.
4. Managing Collaboration as a Leader - Discover ways to foster effective collaboration across different departments and functions.
5. Purposeful Hybrid Team Building - Learn how to build cohesive and high-performing hybrid teams with a clear focus.
6. How to support flexible working as a manager - Gain the skills to support and manage flexible working arrangements.
7. Remote Brainstorming - Learn techniques for effective idea generation in a remote work environment.
8. Virtual Activities for Building Team Culture - Discover creative ways to strengthen team culture and cohesion remotely.
9. Managing Conflict in a Remote Work Environment - Learn how to effectively resolve and prevent conflict in remote teams.
Business Intelligence and Performance
This module will teach you how to effectively use business intelligence and performance management to achieve superior results. You'll gain tools and techniques to help you improve employee performance, lead performance reviews, and create a high-performance culture in your organization.
1. Performance Management Basics - Learn the basic principles of performance management and how to apply them in your work environment.
2. Performance Management: Improving Employee Performance - Learn strategies for improving individual and team performance.
3. Performance Management: Conducting Performance Evaluations - Learn how to effectively conduct performance evaluations that motivate and inspire growth.
4. Stand Out as a Top Performer at Work - Discover how to become a top performer who delivers exceptional results.
5. Performance Improvement Plans: A Guide for Leaders - Learn how to create and implement performance improvement plans that actually work.
6. Evaluating Your Growth as a Leader - Get the tools to self-assess and plan for your professional growth as a leader.
7. Organizing for Maximum Performance - Learn techniques for effective work and time management that lead to maximum performance.
8. Overcoming Perceptions of Productivity as a Manager - Gain the tools to bridge the gap between perceived and actual productivity.
9. Creating a Culture of High Performance - Learn how to create and maintain a culture in your organization that supports high performance.
10. How Managers Achieve Exceptional Team Performance - Learn the skills to lead teams to achieve exceptional results.
Data-Driven Decision-Making and Planning
This module will teach you how to effectively use data to make decisions and plans that will lead to successful outcomes.
You will gain the skills needed to think critically, improve decision making and use information for strategic planning.
1. Intelligent Decision Making - Learn advanced techniques and strategies for making effective data-driven decisions.
2. Ten Habits of Great Decision Makers - Learn the habits that will help you become an exceptional decision maker.
3. Dan Ariely on Decision Making - Hear from expert Dan Ariely and his perspective on the decision making process.
4. Balancing Intuition and Information - Learn how to balance intuition and hard data when making decisions.
5. Tips for Faster and Better Decision Making - Discover practical tips to speed up your decision-making process and achieve better results.
6. Critical Thinking for Better Judgment and Decision Making - Learn critical thinking techniques that will improve your judgment and decision making skills.
7. Tips for Sharpening Critical Thinking - Get short and effective tips to improve your critical thinking.
8. Improving Decision Making as an Analyst - Learn how to improve your decision making skills as an analyst.
9. Management Effectiveness Guide - Discover new ways of thinking that will help you improve your management effectiveness.
10. Data-Driven Decision Making in the Real World - Learn how to apply data-driven decision making in real business situations.
11. Arguing for Diversity and Inclusion - Learn how to use data to promote diversity and inclusion in your organization.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
This module will introduce you to the world of artificial intelligence and show you how to use it effectively to transform your business.
You will learn how to lead digital transformation, master digital thinking and apply AI tools to increase productivity.
1. Generative AI for Business Leaders - Discover how to use generative AI to drive innovation
and growth in your business.
2. Effective Digital Transformation Leadership - Learn how to successfully drive digital transformation in your organization.
3. Leading with a Digital Mindset in the AI Era - Master the digital mindset and adapt to the rapidly changing technology landscape.
4. Trends in AI - Keep up with the latest trends and developments in AI that can impact your business.
5. AI Case Studies in Different Industries - Explore how different industries are successfully implementing AI and what results they are achieving.
6. How to Increase Your Productivity with AI Tools - Learn how to use AI tools to increase your personal and team productivity.
7. AI Productivity Hacks to Redesign Your Workday and Career - Get tips and tricks on how to use AI to optimize your workflow and career growth.
8. Ethics in the Age of Generative AI - Understand the ethical issues associated with using AI and how to ensure that its implementation is responsible and sustainable.
3. Mandatory Research modules
You will also complete the following five modules. They will give you the knowledge and skills needed
to do research. They will also help you prepare and defend your dissertation.
Project I. - Qualitative And Quantitative Research
This module provides an introduction to the basic methods of qualitative and quantitative research, the two main approaches to research work.
Students will learn about the entire research process, from formulation of a research question, through collection and analysis of data, to interpretation of results.
In qualitative research, students will learn techniques such as interviews, focus groups, and text analysis that enable in-depth understanding of human behavior and experience.
Quantitative research, on the other hand, involves statistical methods and working with large datasets, which allows the identification of patterns and relationships between variables.
The module also covers an important aspect of ethics in research, where students learn about ethical standards and the rules that must be followed for research to be considered credible and respectful of participants' rights.
Project II. - Information Literacy & Using AI in Research Projects
This module focuses on the development of skills needed to work effectively with information and the use of modern technologies in research.
Students will learn how to seek, evaluate, and effectively use information from a variety of sources, which is crucial for any scientific research.
The module also focuses on the practical application of artificial intelligence (AI) in research projects.
Students will learn to use generative AI tools for writing, which includes text creation, correction and content optimization.
They will also learn how to increase their productivity through AI, for example by automating routine tasks.
The module also covers the basics of responsible use of AI, where students learn about the ethical and legal aspects of using these technologies.
Project III. - Dissertation Writing I.
This module focuses on writing a dissertation and provides students with the essential skills and strategies to successfully complete this challenging task.
Students will learn how to effectively write a dissertation proposal that clearly defines the research question, methodology, and expected results.
The course includes techniques for writing academic papers in APA style, which is standard in many disciplines.
An important part of the course is the construction of a defense proposal, where students learn how to present their ideas and research to a committee.
Another aspect is writing with impact, which includes techniques for presenting arguments and findings clearly and persuasively.
Project IV. - Dissertation Writing II.
This module builds on the previous module and focuses on advanced writing techniques and text editing.
Students will learn how to use punctuation correctly, which is key to the clarity and readability of their work.
The module also focuses on text editing skills, where students will gain the skills needed to thoroughly and effectively edit and proofread their texts.
Also included is overcoming barriers to writing, a common problem for many students.
This module provides strategies and techniques for dealing with procrastination and maintaining a continuous work pace.
Project V. - Dissertation defense preparation
The final module of the research part of the degree prepares students for the successful defense of their dissertation.
Students receive practical tips and strategies for a successful defence, including designing a basis and preparing for questions and answers from the examining committee.
The module includes techniques for preparing a presentation and improving presentation skills, which is key to effectively communicating research findings.
Students will also learn how to use PowerPoint to create an effective presentation for a dissertation defense.
The module also covers techniques for editing and proofreading a presentation, especially when dealing with time pressure, which is often the case when preparing for a defense.
4. Preparation of the dissertation
Dissertation thesis
5. Defense of the dissertation
5. Defense of the dissertation
6. Obtaining the Ph.D. degree
and Graduation ceremony
Obtaining the Ph.D. degree
Graduation ceremony
Attendance at the graduation is not compulsory, but voluntary and it is up to you whether you attend.
For your further development
beyond your studies,
you can take advantage of:
Webinars with recordings
Access to the online video library
Access to the online eBook and Audiobook library
Access to an online database of up-to-date articles and case studies
Online scientific and managerial conferences
Tuition fees are paid by ICAN
as part of your membership!
The International Career Advancement Network (ICAN)
For whom is the study designed?
For those who want
to excel in their field
For those who want
(or need) a new impulse
For those who want
a flexible form of study
For those who want to apply the knowledge already acquired
For those who want to step out of their comfort zone
For those who want
to increase their value
After the study you will be able to:
- Develop your core competencies and critical thinking.
- Contribute to scientific knowledge and development in your field.
- Use scientific research methods and procedures
in your practice. - Prepare and publish useful, professional and scientific texts.
- Work on yourself consistently and in the long term to further develop yourself.
Admisson Requirements
- Knowledge of the study languageSufficient knowledge of the English language to prepare and defend your dissertation.
- University degreeMaster's or equivalent.
- Documents needed for admissionCopy of proof of highest educational qualification + transcript of records, professional CV, photo, ID (all electronic).
- Membership in ICANMembership in the professional association International Career Advancement Network (ICAN) that pays for your tuition as one of the benefits of your membership.
- Admission decisionFulfilling the admission requirements, application form (including all necessary documents).
- Computer technologyComputer, laptop, tablet or smartphone with internet connection.
Why study
at LIGS University?
High quality of lecturers
They come from 50 countries and are available in all time zones.
International accreditation
Study without limits
All you need is an internet connection.
You can start now
a member of ICAN, which covers your tuition fees as part of your membership benefits, and you can start studying.
Study according to you
Everything in one place
Personal approach
We offer complete support before and during your study.
We are here to help you get the most out of your program.
Opportunity for further study and development
Experience and benefits
With over 17 years of experience in online education we have helped thousands of graduates reach their goals and succeed.
Tuition fees are paid by ICAN
as part of your membership!
The International Career Advancement Network (ICAN)
What are the main steps
in the path to a Ph.D.?
Choice of Ph.D. focus
and goals
Study
Dissertation
Ph.D. degree
Graduation ceremony
Study Ph.D. in a nutshell
- 100% flexible study
- 15 minutes per day (Microlearning)the most effective method for adult students
- Length of study36 months or less
- Completion of study9 modules, dissertation preparation and defence
- Language of studycontent of educational videos in English (with subtitles in other languages)
written outputs (including a dissertation) in English
Allocation of 60 credits in the Ph.D. program
1 credit = 40 - 45 hours (study, preparation, review, etc.)
1 specialization and 3 mandatory elective modules
5 mandatory research
modules
Writing a dissertation in the field of expertise covered in your Ph.D. study
Preparation for the defense
and defense of the dissertation
From the life of LIGS University
Our graduates
We are here for you - Contact us
Anything else you're interested in? Schedule a meeting with our experts.
You've already studied before, but didn't finish your study?
No problem. We'll accept the credits from your previous studies, so you'll have a shorter study period. It's not beneficial for you to study the same courses again unless you want to. You can learn more about credit recognition in this video.
Want to pursue your Ph.D. but don't want to join ICAN?
Study with our partner The Washington Center for Management and Leadership