Applications are limited to those who have completed the Master of Commercial Diplomacy and qualified senior diplomats/professionals currently in employment (Senior Management/Executive level), with proven significant relevant professional experience in a related field. Individuals who work towards the higher doctorate pursue an advanced research project, which must show strong evidence of original contribution to knowledge and practise. The complete programme is the presentation of a publishable research project of high standard which takes a minimum of 3 years for candidates who have successfully completed the Master of Commercial Diplomacy. In certain cases especially for candidates with other Advanced degree (Master) in a related discipline, may undertake this programme, in which case the complete programme, which is the presentation of a publishable research project of high standard, and which takes up to five years. A suitable topic of research for the production of a 6,000-word research proposal in a significant area of the commercial diplomatic discipline must be submitted for assessment, evaluation and approval within 3 weeks of the date of doctoral project enrolment, before submitting fully completed application. The higher doctoral research project must contribute significant knowledge relevant to the formulation of policy on commercial diplomacy related issue. Choice of topic should be of a topic where you feel you have plenty of interest, possibly some background and where, from a preliminary survey, you believe that there is ample available material and scope to enable you to present reasonable work and a conclusion from which you and others can benefit. On the other hand you may choose a completely fresh direction as a challenge but this can make the work difficult. Remember that your work should be of publishable (high) quality and may be of use to your employer and others!