Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Technology Management (PhD-TM)
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Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Technology Management (PhD-TM)
Degree:
Doctor of Philosophy in Technology Management (PhD-TM) Degree
Application:
$0 application fee. No essays/exams.
It takes visionary leaders to improve an organization and bring about new innovations for a better future, both for the world and for the organizations they lead. It also takes a dedicated university to equip them for this challenge. NU’s Doctor of Philosophy in Technology Management will teach you how to become a positive change leader and a champion of new technologies in public and private organizations.
Our Technology Management (PhD-TM) program has been specifically designed to empower students like you to begin enacting change well before your PhD in Technology Management has been conferred through practical application of what you’re learning. This degree can help you act as an conduit between customers, consumers, management, rank and file staff, and executives. Once you’ve started your PhD-TM program at NU, you’ll begin making a difference through technology — now and in the future!
Champion transformation through technology in your organization
Our program features weekly course starts to fit your schedule, and our unique one-to-one learning model allows you to experience individualized interaction with our professionally seasoned, all-doctoral faculty. This 100% online Technology Management PhD program does not require an entrance exam, which can be time-consuming, costly, and have a limited shelf life.
Online PhD-TM Course Requirements
The University may accept a maximum of 12 semester credit hours in transfer toward the doctoral degree for graduate coursework completed at an accredited college or university with a grade of “B” or better.
The PhD-TM degree programs have the following graduation requirements:
- A minimum of 48 credit hours of graduate instruction must be completed through NU
- GPA of 3.0 (letter grade of “B”) or higher
- Satisfactory completion of the PhD-TM Pre-Candidacy Prospectus
- University approval of Dissertation Manuscript and Oral Defense completed
- Submission of approved final dissertation manuscript to the university registrar, including the original unbound manuscript and an electronic copy
- Official transcripts on file for all transfer credit hours accepted by the University
- All financial obligations must be met before the student will be issued their complimentary diploma or degree-posted transcript
Online PhD-TM Course Listings
13 Courses
The PhD program may be completed in a minimum of 60 credits. Additional credit hours may be allowed as needed to complete the dissertation research. If granted, additional courses will be added to the student degree program in alignment with the SAP and Academic Maximum Time to Completion policies. Students who do not complete their program in accordance with these policies may be dismissed.
The PhD in Technology Management requires six (seven if needed) core courses, six specializations, three research courses, pre-candidacy prospectus, and four dissertation courses for a total of 60 credit hours. All incoming PhD-TM students will complete a required writing assessment during their first course, TIM-7001.
**Students select one pair of research methods and directed research courses based on their own research proposal.
The PhD in Technology Management requires the following courses for every specialization:
Principles of Technology Innovation Management
3 Credits
Visionary technology leaders ensure that technology is aligned to organizational strategy. Organizations that seek competitive advantages look to evolving technologies for innovative use. This course serves a dual role to introduce you to your doctoral program and to prepare you for executive leadership roles for technology in organizations. You will practice visionary technology leadership by investigating technology and how emerging technology could be used to solve existing organizational challenges or to create a unique competitive advantage. Finally, you will synthesize information from the course by applying concepts to scenarios while supporting recommendations with scholarly research.
Specialization Course 1
Computer Networks & Mobile Computing
3 Credits
In this course, students will explore emerging issues in computer network design and management. Of particular attention will be topics on how mobile computing has changed the way networks are designed and managed.
Specialization Course 2
Databases & Business Intelligence
3 Credits
Data and databases are the foundation of all business systems. Organizations that do not understand the importance of data management are less likely to survive in the modern economy. During this course, you will study advanced concepts of database management systems and data warehouses. You will also research processes and techniques used to improve data repositories, manipulate data, and prevent data corruption. By the end of the course, you will be able to construct, assess, and transform data to improve business intelligence to support informed business decisions.
Specialization Course 3
Managing Risk, Security, & Privacy in Information Systems
3 Credits
With more application systems and data processed, together with mobile, cloud, and virtual environments all technology system risks increase for security, privacy, compliance issues. While expectations for safety rise, increased complexity and threats make the provision far more difficult and expensive. Record tampering and accidental or intentional exposure are also among the internal risks every enterprise face. During this course, you will learn how to assess, mitigate, and manage risks, threats, and vulnerabilities. You will also study theories, models, standards, and frameworks that aid the effective design, protection mechanisms, practices, and procedures to implement and manage operations within information systems.
Specialization Course 4
Statistics with Technology Applications
3 Credits
This course serves as an extensive exploration of statistics for the technology leader. Included in the course, is an advanced examination of statistical analyses commonly used for information systems and technology research. During this course, you will use different statistical tools to enhance your advanced analytical skills. These statistical analysis skills are required to plan, conduct, and interpret quantitative data to inform enterprise decisions. You will also learn to illustrate and produce technical output reports.
Specialization Course 5
Technology Policy & Strategy
3 Credits
This course is an advanced examination of the theories, concepts, and strategies for managing technology policies and implementing emerging technology in business organizations. During this course, you will research the legal, technical, and managerial considerations needed to design an information technology governance structure. You will also formulate policies and strategies to manage the information technology landscape and implement realistic and effective plans to support corporate technology goals.
Specialization Course 6
Introduction to Research Design & Methodology for Technology Leaders
3 Credits
This course provides a survey of the different methods used to conduct technology-based research. During this course, you will learn about the research principles and methodologies that guide scientific inquiry in order to develop an understanding of the effects of research on individuals and organizations. Specifically, you will study the scientific research lifecycle, data collection methods, and research design methodology. You will finish the course by selecting a research design methodology to support your research interests through the remainder of your program.
Select one of the three research choices below.
Pre-Candidacy Prospectus
3 Credits
The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is intended to ensure students have mastered knowledge of their discipline prior to candidacy status and demonstrated the ability to design empirical research as an investigator before moving on to the dissertation research coursework. Students will demonstrate the ability to synthesize empirical, peer reviewed research to support all assignments in this course. The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is completed only after all foundation, specialization, and research courses have been completed.
Components of the Dissertation
3 Credits
Students in this course will be required to complete Chapter 1 of their dissertation proposal including a review of literature with substantiating evidence of the problem, the research purpose and questions, the intended methodological design and approach, and the significance of the study. A completed, committee approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Chapter 1 is required to pass this course successfully. Students who do not receive approval of Chapter 1 to minimum standards will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of Chapter 1.
The Dissertation Proposal
3 Credits
Students in this course will be required to work on completing Chapters 1-3 of their dissertation proposal and receive committee approval for the Dissertation Proposal (DP) in order to pass the class. Chapter 2 consists of the literature review. Chapter 3 covers the research methodology method and design and to includes population, sample, measurement instruments, data collection and analysis, limitations, and ethical considerations. In this course, a completed, committee-approved Chapters 2 and 3 are required and, by the end of the course, a final approved dissertation proposal (against the minimum rubric standards). Students who do not receive approval of the dissertation proposal will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of these requirements.
Institutional Review Board (IRB) and Data Collection
3 Credits
Students in this course will be required to prepare, submit, and obtain approval of their IRB application, collect data, and submit a final study closure form to the IRB. Students still in data collection at the end of the 12-week course will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to complete data collection and file an IRB study closure form.
The Dissertation Manuscript and Defense
3 Credits
In this dissertation course students work on completing Chapters 4 and 5 and the final Dissertation Manuscript. Specifically, students will complete their data analysis, prepare their study results, and present their findings in an Oral Defense and a completed manuscript. A completed, Committee approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Dissertation Manuscript and successful Oral Defense are required to complete the course and graduate. Students who do not receive approval for either or both their Dissertation Manuscript or defense can take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of either or both items as needed.
Option 1: Quantitative Research
2 Courses
Quantitative Research Design and Methodology for Technology Leaders
3 Credits
The results of technical research are frequently used to support informed management decisions. This course provides technology leaders and professionals with the skills needed to design and conduct quantitative research studies to support specific types of data. During this advanced course in research, you will explore and apply different types of quantitative research methods and statistical techniques. You will also explore instrumentation, data collection, and data analysis tools and techniques to create aligned, ethical, and substantive research designs.
Directed Quantitative Research
3 Credits
A quantitative research design includes objective analysis using experimental, quasi-experimental, and related techniques. Technical quantitative research involves statistical analysis of data collected from a larger number of participants to determine an outcome that can be applied to a general population. During this course, you will work through the scientific research process and apply your knowledge of quantitative research design to develop a technical research proposal in which you can use to support your research interests through the remainder of your program.
Option 2: Qualitative Research
2 Courses
Qualitative Research Design and Methodology for Technology Leaders
3 Credits
The results of qualitative research are frequently used to support informed management decisions. This course provides technology leaders with an in-depth introduction to qualitative methods for studying human behavior, including grounded theory, narrative analysis, and case studies. During this advanced course in research, you will apply qualitative research methods to an information technology-based study. You will also deepen your research knowledge and skills by conducting interviews, collecting and coding data, producing ethical data conclusions, and creating objective research reports.
Directed Quantitative Research
3 Credits
A qualitative approach to research of a technical nature integrates theoretical, conceptual, and empirical constructs with common practices and experience to gain an understanding of performance and functionality, develop an applied and testable model for improvement, or provide insights into problems to develop new ideas. During this course, you will work through the scientific research process and apply your knowledge of qualitative research design to develop a technical research proposal to support your research interests through the remainder of your program.
Option 3: Constructive Research
2 Courses
Constructive Research Design and Methodology for Technology Leaders
3 Credits
The results of technical research are frequently used to develop new products and services. This course provides technology leaders and professionals with the skills needed to design and conduct constructive research studies based on theory. During this advanced course in research, you will examine the methods and measurements used to design constructive research studies to develop sound technical solutions or prototypes. You will also explore software and security testing tools and user acceptance testing methods in order to create aligned, ethical, and substantive research designs.
Directed Quantitative Research
3 Credits
Technical constructive research focuses on models, frameworks, tools, and software used by industry to improve value creation. A constructive approach to research of a technical nature integrates theoretical and empirical constructs with common practices and experience to develop an applied and testable model to improve the fields of computer science and information technology. During this course, you will work through the scientific research process and apply your knowledge of constructive research design to develop a technical research proposal in which you can use to support your research interests through the remainder of your program.
Specializations
Computer Science, PhD-TM
Providing a broad base of understanding of the foundational technology in any information system, NU’s Computer Science specialization helps students understand how computers function and communicate from the inside out. This specialization dovetails very well with the larger goals of your PhD program. A general specialization, it was created to provide you with a foundation on a wide variety of computing topics and to prepare you for a range of technology leadership roles. On graduation, you will be able to use the in-depth knowledge you’ve gained to lead the innovative integration of computer technologies in any organization.
IT Project Management, PhD-TM
Technology without qualified leadership to oversee its optimal use is just expensive hardware. That’s why NU’s IT Project Management specialization was created: to prepare students like you with the skills needed to manage the conception, planning, implementation, and deployment of a variety of information technology-related projects and systems. In this important focus, you’ll pair your technology coursework with in-depth courses in leadership, risk management, and oversight of multiple projects. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared to take on management roles in project management and information technology.
PhD-TM in Information Systems
NU’s Information Systems specialization is designed for students who want to know how computers work together to maintain, store, and process information most efficiently and effectively. With this broad-based, but foundational perspective on technology information management, you may find yourself in high demand. In this innovation-focused course of study, you will be introduced to a variety of topics in information systems and will prepare for a range of information technology leadership roles. Upon graduation, you will be empowered to use this in-depth knowledge to lead the innovative integration of information technologies and information systems in any organization.
Engineering Management, PhD-TM
What could be more foundational to managing technology than preparing leaders to take an innovative approach to engineering management? This important question informs the creation of NU’s Engineering Management specialization, designed for leaders in all types of engineering and technology management fields. In this specialization, you will learn a variety of tools vital to assessing the potential of innovative ideas, protecting an organization’s intellectual property, and bringing new ideas to fruition. Upon graduation, you will be able to use the knowledge you have gained to lead engineering and information systems initiatives in any organization, whether for government, business, or nonprofit.
PhD-TM in Data Science
As computer systems and high-speed processors gain greater and greater capacities, the amount of information generated can be daunting to the leaders of today’s organizations. It takes leadership to manage that mountain of electronic gold most efficiently and effectively. That’s where those who’ve gained their Data Science specialization come in.
This specialization will prepare you to start processing the mountains of data that organizations produce and turn it all into usable information. Our Data Science graduates are prepared with the latest statistical and modeling tools that will enable you to help your organization most effectively use data to serve stakeholders’ interests.
Cybersecurity, PhD-TM
As organizations produce more and more data — and stake their future on its security — the risks associated with possible data theft and other malicious interventions have become greater. NU’s Cybersecurity specialization will prepare you to take a leadership role in helping thwart hackers and other security breaches. In this program, you will be encouraged to think outside of the box as an innovation leader who stays one step ahead of those dedicated to breaching security. Our Cybersecurity specialization will prepare you for a variety of technology leadership roles in both government and private organizations. Upon graduation, you will be well prepared to anticipate and mitigate risks in managing and deploying data-intensive systems.
Career Outlook
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
The Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Technology Management (PhD-TM) will prepare you for careers such as:
- Top Jobs in this field
- Median Salary (USA)
- JOB Openings (USA)
- Chief Executives
- $173,264 avg. salary (USA)
- 24,393 job openings (past yr.) past year
Most desired skills
- Finance
- Project Management
- Marketing
- Accounting
- Auditing
- Public Administration
- Financial Management
Top companies hiring for this role
- Unclassified
- Dollar General
- Jack's Family Restaurants
- Banfield Pet Hospital
- Best Buy
- Bank of America
- Chevron
- General and Operations Managers
- $100,934 avg. salary (USA)
- 373,566 job openings (past yr.) past year
Most desired skills
- Operations Management
- Marketing
- Merchandising
- Finance
- Project Management
- Inventory Management
- Profit And Loss (P&L) Management
Top companies hiring for this role
- Unclassified
- CVS Health
- AutoZone
- Buckle
- Walmart
- Enterprise Rent-A-Car
- Menards
- Computer and Information Systems Managers
- $168,293 avg. salary (USA)
- 61,468 job openings (past yr.) past year
Most desired skills
- Computer Science
- Project Management
- Cyber Security
- Information Systems
- IT Infrastructure
- Continuous Improvement Process
- Auditing
Top companies hiring for this role
- Unclassified
- Marriott International
- KPMG
- Gartner
- Johnson & Johnson
- Prime Therapeutics
- Lincoln Financial Group
Online PhD in Technology Management Program Outcomes
At National University, you can earn your Ph.D. in Technology Management degree online, when it’s convenient for you. And although you attend class online, you still receive the personal support and guidance you deserve thanks to our one-to-one learning model. We also have no residency requirements, no GRE/GMAT requirements, and no group projects. This offers the flexibility you need to fit higher education into your busy schedule.
Get on the Path to Leadership
This program includes the training, instruction, and networking opportunities to take your career to the next level.
Applied Approach to Teaching
This degree requires advanced knowledge and problem-solving skills; your academic work will be based on things that you already know and the application of those things in a new context. In this program, you aren’t following a path — you’re creating one.
Program at a Glance
- Total Credit Hours: 60 Credit Hours
- Courses: 20 Courses
- Recommended Completion Time: 39 Months
- Next Start Date:Every Monday
- Classroom Size: One
PhD in Technology Management Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of National University’s PhD in Technology Management program, graduates will be able to:
- Develop knowledge in technology and innovation based on a synthesis of current theories
- Communicate with diverse audiences about theories, applications, and perspectives related to technology and innovation
- Evaluate theories of ethics and risk management in computers and emerging technologies
- Formulate strategies for managing technology and innovation in global organizations
- Contribute to the body of theory and practice in technology management
Admissions
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To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.
Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.
To speak with our admissions team, call (855) 355-6288 or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply start your application today.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
National University is dedicated to making higher education affordable, as well as accessible. Through NU scholarship offerings, eligible students are able to reduce the financial burden of college, start classes sooner, and finish their programs faster while focusing on achieving their goals.
What makes a degree
with National University unique?
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Committed to serving those who serve — diverse resources and support for veterans and family. Military and Veteran Admissions.
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Individual student and alumni career guidance, professional development opportunities, and customized career support.
Transfer Students Welcome
NU makes it easy to get your degree, even if you started it with another university. Learn more about transferring to NU.
Accreditations
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.
Why National University?
We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners.
Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 240,000 alumni worldwide.
“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”
Francisco R.,
Class of 2016
What makes a degree
with National University unique?
Free Tutoring Sessions
Access personalized tutoring sessions at no cost — empowering your learning.
Online and In-Person
Flexibility meets quality education with our online and in-person learning options.
24/7 Support
Get assistance anytime, anywhere with our round-the-clock support services.
Military Friendly
Committed to serving those who serve — diverse resources and support for veterans and family. Military and Veteran Admissions.
Mentoring Network
Individual student and alumni career guidance, professional development opportunities, and customized career support.
Transfer Students Welcome
NU makes it easy to get your degree, even if you started it with another university. Learn more about transferring to NU.
Accelerate Your Career With NU
At National University, you’re part of a family. As a student, you’ll have the support of staff, faculty members, students, and alumni who will be there with you every step of the way, cheering you on as you pursue your goals.
Our network of 240,000 alumni is a large global community that provides our graduates with the professional connections to get a leg up in your new career.
FAQs
Career Potential*
- Computer Scientist
- IT Specialist
- Systems Engineer
- Project Manager/Program Manager/Project Engineer
- Cryptologist
- Software Engineer
- Principal
- Consultant
- Cybersecurity Engineers/ Manager
- Faculty/Instructor/Lecturer In Computer Sciences, Cybersecurity, And Other Related Fields
*Positions may depend on specialization chosen and require additional experience, training and other factors beyond successfully completing this degree program. Some roles may also require state licensure, and it is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all licensure requirements are met.
COMPUTER SCIENCE SPECIALIZATION
Students in the Computer Science specialization will research the design and function of computers from the inside out. This is a broad specialization, allowing students to research a wide variety of computer topics and to prepare for a range of technology leadership roles. Graduates will be able to use this in-depth knowledge to contribute to new computer science research and lead the innovative integration of computer technologies in their organizations.
- TIM-8101 – Principles of Computer Science
STUDENTS WILL CHOOSE TIM-8101 or TIM-8110
- TIM-8110 – Programming Languages & Algorithms
- TIM-8120 – Distributed Systems
- TIM-8130 – Data Mining
- TIM-8140 – Software Engineering
- TIM-8150 – Artificial Intelligence
- TIM-8301- Principles of Cybersecurity
CYBERSECURITY SPECIALIZATION
As organizations are producing more and more data, the risks associated with possible data theft become even greater. Therefore, organizations must have leaders who know how to keep the data secure. Students in the Cybersecurity specialization will research the latest trends to stay ahead of would-be cyber attackers. Graduates will be well-prepared to anticipate and mitigate risks in managing and deploying data-intensive systems and to assume a variety of technology leadership roles in government, private organizations, and research institutions.
- TIM-8301 – Principles of Cybersecurity
- TIM-8310 – Cyber Forensics
- TIM-8320 – Contingency Planning & Disaster Recovery
- TIM-8330 – Advanced Risk Management
- TIM-8340 – Secure Software Development
- TIM-8350 – Critical Infrastructure Protection, Information Warfare, and Cyber Terrorism
DATA SCIENCE SPECIALIZATION
Gathering and maintaining data is just one piece of effective use of data. Data Science is an emerging field that deals with making sense of the mountains of data organizations produce and turning them into actionable knowledge. The Data Science specialization prepares students to be leaders and researchers in this new and exciting field by studying the most up-to-date tools and emerging research in this area.
- TIM-8130 – Data Mining
- TIM-8440 – Knowledge Management
- TIM-8501- Quantitative Methods for Data Analytics and Business Intelligence
- TIM-8510 – Data VisualizationTIM-8520 – Inferential Statistics and Predictive Analytics
- TIM-8530 – Big Data Integration
INFORMATION SYSTEMS SPECIALIZATION
This specialization is designed for scholars who want to research new ways for computers to work together to maintain, store, and process information. Students will research a variety of topics in information systems and will prepare for a range of information technology leadership and research roles. Graduates will be able to use this in-depth knowledge to lead the innovative integration of information technologies and information systems in their organizations.
- TIM-8301- Principles of Cybersecurity
- TIM-8410 – Cloud Computing
- TIM-8420 – Data Warehousing & Decision Support
- TIM-8430 – Systems Analysis & Design
- TIM-8440 – Knowledge Management
- TIM-8601- IT Project Management
IT PROJECT MANAGEMENT SPECIALIZATION
This specialization prepares students with the knowledge needed to contribute to innovation in the conception, planning, implementation, and deployment of a variety of information technology-related projects. Students will study research and theories in leadership, risk, and management of multiple projects. Graduates will be prepared to assume management and research roles in project management and information technology.
- TIM-8630 – Managing Risk in Project Management
- TIM-8210 – Quality Management
- TIM-8601- IT Project Management
- TIM-8610 – Leadership in Project Management
- TIM-8620 – Project Management Systems & Technology
- TIM-8640 – Program & Portfolio Management
Program Disclosure
Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.
Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.
NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.
All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.
National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.
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