Curriculum Overview - International Doctorate in Business - Fakultas Ekonomika dan Bisnis Universitas Gadjah Mada

Year 1

Objective: Build students’ confidence in academic discourse and equip them with the tools to conduct valid, measurable, and business-relevant scientific research.

1. Philosophy of Science (3 SKS)
This course provides a strong philosophical foundation for the IDB academic journey. Students will learn how science is constructed, validated, and applied in the business world. By exploring fundamental questions such as “What is knowledge?” and “How do we know what we know?”, students will understand the relationship between theory and practice and how to develop a critical scientific perspective. This course also emphasizes the importance of reflection in scientific research to build strong arguments.

2. Seminar in Organization Theory (3 SKS)
This course examines fundamental theories on how organizations function, develop, and adapt in complex environments. Key topics include organizational structure, culture, power, and change, with a focus on their impact on business performance and sustainability. As part of the IDB program, this seminar integrates theoretical perspectives with practical applications, helping students analyse and solve organizational challenges in a global context. Through discussions, case studies, and research, students will develop critical thinking and strategic decision-making skills. The interactive format encourages knowledge exchange, preparing students to lead and drive organizational success in diverse business settings.

3. Research Methodology 1 (3 SKS)
This foundational course introduces students to the principles, paradigms, and designs of academic research. It covers essential philosophical underpinnings of research, including ontology, epistemology, and axiology, helping students understand how these concepts shape the way research is conducted and interpreted. The focus is on understanding various research methodologies and the critical role they play in developing valid and reliable knowledge. Through this course, students gain a comprehensive view of research as a systematic process, enabling them to formulate research questions and design studies effectively.

4. Systematic Literature Review (3 SKS)
This course is designed to equip students with the skills and methodologies needed to conduct a comprehensive and systematic review of existing literature in their field of study. The focus is on developing a structured approach to literature review that enhances the reliability, relevance, and rigor of research findings.

5. Research Methodology 2 (3 SKS)
Building on the foundational knowledge from Research Methodology 1, this course focuses on the practical application of qualitative research methods, with an emphasis on data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Students will gain hands-on experience in conducting qualitative research, learning how to gather rich data, analyse it systematically, and draw meaningful conclusions.

6. Academic Writing (3 SKS)
This course is designed to enhance students’ ability to communicate research ideas clearly, coherently, and persuasively in written form. Focusing on the conventions and standards of academic writing, students will learn how to craft well-structured papers, articulate complex ideas, and contribute to scholarly discourse. The course emphasizes both the technical and stylistic aspects of academic writing, preparing students to publish their work and engage effectively with the academic community.

7. Topical Seminars in Organization Theories and Practices (3 SKS)
This course explores key theories and practical issues in organizational studies, focusing on how organizations evolve, adapt, and perform in different contexts. Students will analyse contemporary research on topics such as organizational design, leadership, innovation, and change management. Through case studies, presentations, and discussions, students will critically evaluate theoretical frameworks, identify gaps in existing research, and connect concepts to real-world business challenges. The seminar helps students develop a clear research focus by linking academic insights with practical organizational issues, preparing them to address complex management problems in their careers.

8. Topical Seminars in Organization Research (3 SKS)
This course provides a structured platform for students to develop a rigorous research framework by integrating insights from organizational theories and practices. Building on the foundations from previous seminars, students will refine their research focus, define key problems, and explore theoretical perspectives relevant to their study. The course emphasizes critical discussions, case analyses, and collaborative feedback to help students construct conceptual models and select appropriate research methodologies. Students will evaluate different research approaches, assess data collection techniques, and ensure alignment between their research questions and chosen frameworks.

Year 2

Objective:
1. Enhance students’ research expertise through structured framework development, data analysis, and international academic engagement.
2. Strengthen research design, earn global micro-credentials, and defend the final research proposal for a robust and impactful dissertation.

1. Initial Research Proposal (3 SKS)
This non-course activity guides students in developing a structured and well-founded research plan. Students will formulate clear research questions, establish theoretical foundations, and select appropriate methodologies. Through faculty mentorship and peer discussions, students will refine their proposals to ensure theoretical rigor, methodological soundness, and practical relevance.

2. Initial Data Collection and Analysis (3 SKS)
Students will conduct preliminary data collection using appropriate qualitative or quantitative methods. Emphasis is placed on selecting data sources, ensuring reliability and validity, and applying suitable analytical techniques. Students will interpret initial findings and refine their research direction based on emerging insights, preparing them for the next phase of their study.

3. International Micro-Credentials (3 SKS)
Students enroll in internationally recognized certification programs relevant to their research or professional interests. Potential certifications include sustainable business practices, global reporting standards, or industry-specific competencies. These credentials enhance their expertise and expand career opportunities.

4. Final Research Proposal and Defense (3 SKS)
At this stage, students refine their research proposal by integrating feedback from faculty advisors and peers. They present their proposal before a faculty panel, demonstrating the clarity, feasibility, and methodological rigor of their planned study. The Research Proposal Defense is a critical milestone, allowing students to articulate their research objectives, theoretical foundations, methodology, and expected contributions. This non-course activity provides an opportunity to receive constructive feedback and make necessary refinements before proceeding. A successful defense signifies the faculty’s approval for students to advance into full-scale data collection and dissertation development, ensuring their research is well-structured and impactful.

Year 3 & 4

Objective: Codify practices and present research findings while preparing students to contribute to the academic and business world by completing a doctoral essay.

1. International Conference (6 SKS)
The International Conference is a culminating activity that provides students with the opportunity to present their research findings to an international academic audience. Through participation in a reputable conference abroad, students share their work, receive valuable feedback, and engage with scholars from diverse backgrounds. This experience not only hones their presentation skills but also broadens their professional network and situates their research within the global academic community.

2. Final Defense (18 SKS)
The Final Defense is a formal milestone that marks the culmination of the doctoral program, during which students present and defend their completed research before a panel of experts. This final evaluation assesses the rigor, originality, and contributions of the doctoral essay, providing students with an opportunity to demonstrate their mastery of the research process. Successful completion of the defense signifies that the student’s work meets the standards of scholarly excellence and makes a meaningful contribution to their field.