Organizational Behavior and Human Resources Management, PhD

The OBHR PhD program discipline focuses on preparing students to impact the study of people, processes and outcomes within the fields of organizational behavior and human resources management. Through research, collaboration, and dissemination of knowledge, students understand how to impact organizational effectiveness in a variety of different environments, industries, and across multiple levels of analyses. Our expectation is that students will craft a program of research that is built upon rigorous theory as well as strong methodological skills that are both necessary for effective scholarship. We encourage collaboration with OBHR faculty that has a proven track record of publishing within a variety of top outlets. 

Organizational Behavior and Human Resources Management students must complete a total of 15 seminars/courses (17 courses if they do not exempt the MBA course requirement).  This includes eight courses in their major area of study within Organizational Behavior and Human Resources Management, at least four courses in research methodology, and at least three courses in a minor area of study.  Students may instead choose to complete eight courses in their major area and seven total courses in research methodology for a research methodology minor. Students should choose individually approved seminars and courses from the enclosed list of Pitt Business seminars and courses, as well as from approved University of Pittsburgh seminars and courses. For example, students often choose psychology, decision sciences, statistics, and research methodology to name a few.   Finally, on a limited basis students may also cross-register into approved seminars and courses at other institutions to support their overall program of study.  Each program of study must be approved by the student’s faculty advisor and the Director of the School of Business PhD Program.  Any subsequent seminar/course changes must also be approved.