The doctoral programmes follow a structured academic and research framework common to all three programmes. This framework supports the systematic development of disciplinary depth, methodological competence, and independent research capability.

Academic Structure

All doctoral students progress through a defined sequence of academic and research milestones:

• Coursework Completion: Provides foundational exposure to management theory, research methodology, and Area-specific learning.
• Comprehensive Qualifying Examination:  Evaluates readiness to undertake independent doctoral research.
• Thesis Proposal Open Seminar: Presentation and discussion of the proposed research before the academic community.
• Pre-Submission Research–Thesis Open Seminar: Presentation of near-complete research work prior to draft-thesis submission.
• Draft-Thesis Submission: Submission of the draft thesis for formal evaluation.
• Final Thesis Open Defence & Viva Voce: Oral defence of the completed thesis before the examining committee.
• Final Thesis Submission: Completion of doctoral requirements after incorporating examiners’ observations.

Doctoral students must complete a minimum of three years in the programme before becoming eligible to submit the draft thesis. The overall duration typically spans five years.

Coursework Structure

Coursework forms the academic foundation of the doctoral journey. It introduces theoretical perspectives, research methodologies, and Area-specific knowledge essential for developing a coherent and rigorous research agenda. For the doctoral programmes at IIM Kozhikode, one credit corresponds to ten hours of classroom instruction.

Although the three programmes differ in structure and delivery, all coursework follows a common academic philosophy centered on building theoretical grounding, methodological capability, and scholarly competence.

DPM Coursework Structure*

DPM (Teaching Track) Coursework Structure

The Teaching Track follows a compact coursework structure delivered in a blended mode, focusing on research foundations and Area-specific learning.

DPM (Practice Track) Coursework Structure*

The Practice Track parallels the Teaching Track and integrates professional experience with academic inquiry.