5 Myths about the Doctorate in Management
By: Diego Norena-Chávez, Director of the Doctorate in Management, University of Lima, Peru
Is a doctorate simply a deeper MBA? Does a doctorate only serve to train professors? These and other questions, which often reflect some of the most common misconceptions about doctoral programmes, are addressed in this article.
When I ask people what a doctorate in management is, many respond that it is merely an extension of a master’s degree, where business cases are studied in greater depth. Others claim that a doctorate is useful only within academia and that it has no real-world connection. Based on my experience with business leaders, executives, and academics, I can confidently say that this is not true. Doctorates in management are, in fact, a master key that allows us to understand both worlds. Theory that cannot be applied in practice loses its value, while practice without a solid theoretical foundation soon reaches its limits.
Below, I will debunk some of the most common myths surrounding doctoral programmes in management:
Myth 1: A Doctorate in Management is an advanced MBA
False. Although a doctorate in management is the next academic step beyond a master’s degree, it is fundamentally different. Research at the doctoral level is pure or basic in nature, aiming to contribute to the advancement of knowledge within an existing discipline. Unlike an MBA, which focuses on practical application and business management, a doctorate is devoted to the creation of new knowledge and theoretical frameworks.
Myth 2: The main goal of a Doctorate in Management is publication
False. The mission of a high-quality doctoral programme in management is to train researchers capable of operating across diverse contexts—academia, business, and government—while mastering various philosophical paradigms, methodologies, theories, and models within their field of expertise. Beyond academia, these researchers are prepared to address complex real-world problems, advise corporations and governments, and lead innovative projects. Becoming an authority in a specific field requires much more than simply the ability to publish a scientific paper.
Myth 3: Doctoral studies in management consist of reading books
False. Most of the materials studied in a doctorate in management are scientific articles published in indexed journals such as Scopus or Web of Science. These papers represent the cutting edge of knowledge and, in most cases, are written in English.
Myth 4: A Doctorate in Management is irrelevant to industry
False. Many CEOs and senior executives of multinational corporations hold doctorates in management. Earning such a degree enables professionals to understand business phenomena from multiple perspectives and with greater analytical depth. For example, the ability to conduct rigorous research and critical analysis can significantly enhance strategic decision-making and foster innovation within organisations.
Myth 5: The doctorate is a solitary journey
False. This depends on the doctoral programme. Although conducting research involves extensive reading and independent work, the support and guidance of supervisors and doctoral directors are crucial. Moreover, many programmes encourage collaboration among students and participation in academic and professional networks, which enriches both the learning experience and personal development.
In addition to dispelling these myths, it is worth highlighting some additional advantages of pursuing a doctorate in management:
- Social impact: Holders of a doctorate in management have the capacity to influence public policy and corporate strategy, contributing to sustainable and equitable development.
- Recognition and prestige: A doctorate represents the highest academic qualification, conferring significant credibility and respect within both professional and academic environments.
- Networking opportunities: Participation in international conferences, seminars, and workshops provides unique opportunities to connect with leading experts and thought leaders in the field.
- Development of transferable skills: Doctoral training cultivates research, critical thinking, academic writing, and presentation skills—all highly valued across a range of sectors.
A doctorate in management not only deepens theoretical and methodological knowledge but also equips professionals with practical and strategic tools to lead and transform organisations. It is, ultimately, an investment in the future—both personally and professionally.
