Program Structure

The doctoral programs at CATÓLICA-LISBON have a duration of four years. These programs ensure a solid academic foundation and encourage students to pursue excellence in research. The first year is dedicated to academic coursework, while the following three years focus on deepening students' knowledge and skills, fostering research at the forefront of science.

Students have the opportunity to tailor their academic journey through advanced elective courses in their specific areas of interest. Throughout the program, students will be actively engaged in a strong research environment, including regular research seminars hosted by CUBE, our Research Unit in Business and Economics, and opportunities to work with our Centres of Excellence.

This PhD is delivered in partnership with NOVA School of Business and Economics (NOVASBE). As part of the programme structure, students will attend modules at both Católica-Lisbon and NOVASBE.
keyboard_arrow_up Year 1

The first year is dedicated to foundational coursework that equips students with essential knowledge and research skills. By the end of the first year, students will have selected their research supervisor, laying the groundwork for their future research.

Mandatory Courses:

  • Microeconomics
  • Macroeconomics
  • Econometrics
  • Methods in Applied Economics
     

Students are evaluated through exams for each course, with the final assessment carried out by the doctoral committee at the end of the academic year.

Final year examinations take place in June (in addition to coursework’ exams). Comprehensive exams in Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Advanced Econometrics
keyboard_arrow_up Year 2

The second year focuses on deepening students’ expertise through elective courses and research seminars. Students are required to write a significant research paper that contributes to their dissertation. Participation in PhD Research Seminars is mandatory, and students must present their research at least once a year.

A key highlight of the second year is the exchange semester, where students can take additional courses at a partner university, experience a different academic culture, and expand their professional network.
keyboard_arrow_up Year 3 & 4

The third and fourth years are dedicated to completing the dissertation, which consists of three research papers with the potential to be published in top-tier international journals. Students will continue to attend PhD Research Seminars and CUBE’s research seminars to stay engaged with ongoing academic discussions.

Successful candidates will have the opportunity to participate in a communication training program designed to prepare them for the academic job market.

Key Features of the Program

Tailored Curriculum

No formal specialization areas, but the program offers a variety of advanced electives in marketing, management, and operations/information management/analytics.

Mentorship

Close mentorship from faculty, guiding students through the research process and academic career development.

Exchange term

In the second year, students can take additional coursework in their specific research area and/or develop their research for part or a whole semester at a top-tier partner university.

Teaching Experience

Students are encouraged to collaborate in at least one course, allowing them to develop their teaching skills.

International Exposure

Opportunities to present research at international conferences and interact with a global network of scholars.