Doctor of Philosophy in Decision, Risk and Operations

The Decision, Risk, and Operations (DRO) division at Columbia Business School is a world leader in research in quantitative, data-driven decision-making through the use of modeling, optimization and the management of uncertainty, and all the other aspects of the operations and analytics functions in firms. Application areas in which the division has strong expertise include revenue management, logistics, distribution and supply-chain management, resource networks and service systems, healthcare operations, marketplace design, quantitative finance, modern market microstructure, and risk management, econometrics, and business analytics.

Admission to the PhD program in Decision, Risk, and Operations is highly competitive. Superior academic performance is expected, and a strong background in and facility with mathematics are essential for the successful completion of the program.
The entering student must be able to use mathematics as a language, translating verbal descriptions of phenomena into the appropriate mathematical framework(s). Students with some background in linear algebra, the elements of optimization, and probability and statistics will be better prepared for required course work. At a minimum, a thorough working knowledge of a two-semester introductory calculus sequence is required.
Application Materials
Essay

The Decision, Risk and Operations Division is interested in your reasons for pursuing doctoral studies. Please describe them in an essay that is less than 1000 words.
Research Paper

Applicants are encouraged to submit a research paper as part of their application, if they have one. The application form provides the option to submit a research paper under Essays.
Recommendation Letters

Two letters of recommendation are required. However, a total of four may be submitted.
Transcripts

A bachelor's degree or the equivalent (i.e., a four-year course of study in an accredited college or university) is required for admission. A master's degree is not required, although many applicants have a master's degree in such fields as management, economics, psychology, sociology, and statistics. Superior academic performance is expected.
GMAT or GRE

The GMAT or GRE is required for all applicants to the Decision, Risk, and Operations Division.