PhD in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Zaragoza Logistics Center offers a world-class doctoral program to leverage the quality faculty and numerous research opportunities of the MIT-Zaragoza International Logistics Program.  The University of Zaragoza awards the PhD in Logistics and Supply Chain Management which conforms to evolving Bologna standards. Graduates also receive a certificate from MIT for their participation in the MIT-Zaragoza International Logistics Program.

The full-time program follows the highest international quality standards for doctoral studies, from the intensive admissions process to the comprehensive exam and thesis defense. The ZLC PhD degree and MIT-Zaragoza certificate enable graduates to take faculty positions at leading universities around the world or to become innovation leaders for international companies.

First year PhD students typically complete courses in the MIT-Zaragoza master's degree program (ZLOG) before continuing with advanced courses and dissertation work. Students who have successfully completed equivalent graduate level coursework may be able to waive some ZLOG courses. Second year MIT-Zaragoza PhD students can spend a semester or longer at MIT and have the opportunity to study at other leading business and engineering schools.

Upon completion of the relevant coursework, normally after two years, students must pass a comprehensive qualifying exam. After passing this exam, the student becomes a candidate for the PhD and focuses on dissertation research. The dissertation typically requires two years to complete.  Provision could be made for students to extend the research phase into a third year, taking the entire degree process to five years.  

Summer research or teaching is expected throughout the program. Students admitted to the doctoral program typically receive graduate assistantship, which includes a stipend for living expenses and a fellowship to cover tuition. The assistantship is renewable during the first four years in the program for students that remain in good standing and perform the required tasks.

Doctoral students may receive additional funding from companies or organizations that sponsor research at the Center.  ZLC provides teaching opportunities for PhD candidates who are interested in academic positions.

Although the application deadlines for PhD students are no different than those of the ZLOG masters program, early application is encouraged and results in an early decision.  In addition, there may be opportunities for research work in the summer before the program starts.

Opportunities are available for PhD students in a Spanish university to transfer to ZLC and complete their dissertation with the MIT-Zaragoza faculty.

PhD Summer Academy 2010  | Past PhD Summer Academies