Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in
International Agribusiness

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Course Overview

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Agribusiness

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Agribusiness is a rigorous and intellectually demanding doctoral program designed to advance scholarly understanding of global agrifood systems, international markets, trade dynamics, policy frameworks, and enterprise performance across borders. The program provides candidates with deep theoretical grounding and advanced research capabilities to interrogate the economic, political, institutional, and cultural forces shaping contemporary and future agribusiness systems.

This PhD is designed for highly motivated scholars and practitioner researchers committed to producing high quality, industry relevant, and policy informed research that contributes to the improvement of productivity, competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience within international agribusiness. Candidates engage in original research that addresses real world challenges in global value chains, food security, agribusiness strategy, innovation, and development, while applying robust qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.

Graduates of the PhD in International Agribusiness are equipped to contribute meaningfully to global scholarship and practice through peer reviewed publications, conference presentations, and policy discourse. The program prepares graduates for academic careers in universities and research institutions, as well as influential roles in international organizations, policy advisory bodies, and global agribusiness enterprises. With Africa’s growing strategic relevance in global food systems, this program offers a strong intellectual platform for scholars seeking to shape international agribusiness thought, research, and impact at the highest level.

What Makes this PhD Program Unique

Strong Global Agribusiness Focus

A research-intensive doctoral program focused on international agribusiness, global food systems, cross border trade, and value chain development.

Flexible Research Oriented Structure

Structured to support independent doctoral research under close academic supervision, enabling scholars to pursue deep inquiry while maintaining professional engagements.

Advanced Doctoral Research

Blends advanced doctoral research with real-world executive impact—bridging strategy, policy, and innovation.

Executive-Friendly Format

Designed specifically for busy professionals, ensuring rigorous learning without career disruption.

Academic Structure

Course Code

Course Title

AGR 901
Advance Agribusiness Management 1
AGR 902
Seminar in Emerging Global Issues in Agribusiness
BUS 902
Management Thoughts and Philosophy
MGR 901
Advance Research Methodology
HRM 902
Advance Human Resource Management
MKT 901
Advance International Marketing & Export

Course Code

Course Title

AGR 903
Advance Agribusiness Management II
AGR 904
Advance Managerial Economics
BUS 915
Seminar in Agribusiness Environment
BUS 811
Imperative of Globalization
HRM 812
Advance Diversity Management

Course Code

Course Title

SEM 920
PhD Seminar 1

Course Code

Course Title

SEM 930
PhD Seminar 2

Course Code

Course Title

BUS 940
Thesis (Pre-field)

Course Code

Course Title

BUS 950
Thesis (Post-Field)
BUS 951
Thesis (VIVA)

Research Groups

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Agribusiness is a rigorous and intellectually demanding doctoral program designed to advance scholarly understanding of global agrifood systems, international markets, trade dynamics, policy frameworks, and enterprise performance across borders.
Track 1

Agribusiness Strategy, Leadership, and Enterprise Growth

This track focuses on how agribusiness firms, ranging from growth-stage startups to multinational food corporations, can craft competitive strategies, manage complex organizational structures, and build enduring leadership models. Students pursuing this track often explore strategic positioning, enterprise scalability, corporate governance, and innovation capacity. The track is ideal for executives aiming to transform agribusiness ventures into high-performing, resilient institutions with regional or global impact.
Track 2

Global Trade, Policy, and Market Systems Development

This track explores the institutional, regulatory, and economic forces that shape agrifood markets across national and regional boundaries. It is particularly relevant for candidates interested in how trade policies, government interventions, and development programs impact value chain competitiveness and market access. Research may focus on the implementation of AfCFTA, the design of inclusive market systems, or the effectiveness of public-private partnerships in unlocking agricultural investment. This track is ideal for professionals in policymaking, trade facilitation, donor programs, or agri-development strategy who seek to influence systemic reform and regional integration.
Track 3

Digital Transformation and AgriTech Innovation

Focused on the technological frontier of agribusiness, this track examines how digital innovations are reshaping the way food is produced, distributed, financed, and consumed. Candidates may explore the strategic application of blockchain in traceability systems, precision farming technologies, AI-powered decision tools, digital market platforms, or IoT-based production systems. This track is designed for executives and advisors leading digital transformation projects or building technology-enabled business models in agriculture. Research under this theme contributes to advancing digital inclusion, operational efficiency, and data-driven enterprise agility in agrifood ecosystems.
Track 4

Sustainability, ESG, and Climate-Smart Agribusiness

This track addresses the growing demand for agribusinesses to operate responsibly and sustainably in the face of climate risk and global ESG expectations. Candidates will explore how environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks can be embedded into agrifood strategies—balancing profitability with purpose. Possible research themes include regenerative agriculture, carbon farming, climate risk assessment, social impact investing, circular economy approaches, and ESG disclosure standards. The track suits professionals working on environmental stewardship, sustainable value chains, or organizational transformation toward green growth and resilience.
Track 5

Agribusiness Finance, Investment, and Risk Governance

This track focuses on the financial underpinnings of modern agribusiness. It investigates how enterprises can access and manage capital, structure investment deals, and navigate risk in uncertain operating environments. Candidates may examine models of blended finance, venture capital in agriculture, microfinance innovation, agricultural insurance products, or enterprise risk management systems. The track is ideal for CFOs, investment analysts, donor program leads, and entrepreneurs who manage or advise on agribusiness financing and risk architecture. It prepares candidates to design finance strategies that unlock growth while managing volatility and long-term financial health.
Track 6

Human Capital, Organizational Culture, and Workforce Transformation

This track delves into the people dimension of agribusiness leadership—where organizational success is often determined by culture, leadership behavior, and talent alignment. Candidates may investigate how to build high-performing teams, design inclusive workplace cultures, drive innovation through people, or manage workforce transitions in digitally evolving agribusiness firms. Themes such as gender leadership, workforce upskilling, and organizational agility are central to this track. It is particularly suitable for senior leaders overseeing human capital development, enterprise transformation, or institutional performance improvement across the agrifood sector.

Final Award

The Final Award on this program is Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Agribusiness of Lead City University, Ibadan.

Program Duration

36 Months (Six Semesters)

Admission Requirement

Master of Science (M.Sc) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degrees in Agribusiness, Agricultural economics, Business Administration and other relevant areas.

Application Documents

• A detailed resume
• Copies of all academic qualifications
• Three reference letters
• 4 Passport photographs
• Academic transcripts of previously obtained degrees

Mode of Study

Blended

Tuition

N650,000 per Semester

Interested In Enrolling?

Interested in enrolling for our Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Agribusiness program of Lead City University Ibadan, complete the pre-application form below.
Once submitted, the Program Directorate will schedule a pre-admission screening session. Upon successful completion, you will be invited to complete the full application process. Early application is strongly advised due to limited cohort sizes.

For General Admission Enquiries

If you need specific information about the program that is not on this page?
Please contact our program specialist for personalized advise about your specific case
OR
For urgent enquiries, please contact:

agribusiness@lcu.edu.ng

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