SAU launches blended executive PhD programme for working professionals

The South Asian University (SAU) has announced the launch of its executive PhD programmes for working professionals. The objective of the programme is to bridge the gap between academia and industry by organising research that combines theoretical insights with practical experience.

The programme, designed for senior professionals, officers, and domain experts, will commence its first batch by the end 2025 and will have 13 learners.

KK Aggarwal, president at SAU, said: “This programme reflects SAU’s commitment to integrating professional expertise with academic excellence. It provides a platform for experienced professionals to contribute to knowledge creation while enriching their organizations and sectors through research-driven insights.”

The executive PhD programme will include a flexible course structure that blends classroom and online learning, interactive assignments, and guided self-study. The programme is designed to balance professional schedules and research goals.

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SAU's Blended Executive PhD Programme

“Designed to foster interdisciplinary and practice-based research, the programme invites professionals from diverse fields such as Mathematics, Biotechnology, Computer Science, Physics, Economics, International Relations, Sociology, Legal Studies, Media, Arts & Design, Climate Change, and Management,” according to the official statement.

The first batch will include participants from civil services, international agencies, diplomatic missions, media, academia, and the creative industries.

Among them will be senior public servants, high-ranking officials from the United Nations system, diplomatic professionals from SAARC member nations, distinguished editors from national media houses, and gold medallists in performing arts—reflecting the programme’s ability to attract outstanding professionals committed to advancing research and leadership in their respective fields, the official statement added.