Programme Overview
The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is an application-oriented doctoral degree aimed at experienced executives, managers and decision-makers who wish to examine and develop business management issues on a scientific basis.
The programme combines academic research at doctoral level with a clear practical focus and aims to make substantial contributions to the further development of companies, organisations and management practices. Through a structured yet flexible approach, students develop strong research skills, theoretical depth, and methodological expertise under close one-on-one academic supervision.
The DBA is designed for people who are already successful in their professional lives and want to build on that success with the credibility, depth, and intellectual authority of a doctoral qualification — without interrupting their careers.
Key Learning Outcomes
DBA vs. PhD: What's the Difference?
Application-oriented research connected to real organisational challenges. For executives, senior managers and business leaders seeking to advance management practice.
Research-oriented degree aimed at making substantial contributions to academic knowledge through independent, original scientific research. For scholars and researchers.
Both are doctoral-level qualifications of equal academic standing. The choice depends on your goals: applied professional impact (DBA) versus academic contribution (PhD).
Three-Tier Programme Structure
The doctoral programme is divided into three consecutive study tiers, completed in sequence over 36 months. Each tier must be completed before proceeding to the next.
Tier 1 — Year 1 · Advanced Research Planning & Methodology (60 ECTS)
Prepare for original research at MQF 8 level. Complete a comprehensive Research Plan under supervisor guidance that provides a viable foundation for your DBA dissertation. Includes: research question formulation · research design & methods · qualitative & quantitative approaches · ethics & data protection.
Tier 2 — Year 2 · Advanced Research Progress & Review (60 ECTS)
Conduct supervised original research leading to 2–4 thesis chapters. Regular feedback sessions with your supervisor ensure steady progress. Includes: independent research work · bi-weekly then monthly supervisor meetings · Work in Progress seminars · conference participation (optional).
Tier 3 — Year 3 · Thesis Completion & Viva Voce (60 ECTS)
Finalise the dissertation with a coherent argument. Polish editorial aspects and prepare for the Viva Voce examination and doctoral defence. Includes: completing first draft · harmonising overall argument · editorial refinement · Viva Voce preparation and defence.
Who Is This Programme For?
C-suite and board-level professionals seeking to underpin strategic leadership with doctoral-level research credentials.
Experienced managers with managerial responsibility who wish to investigate real-world organisational challenges scientifically.
Business owners and founders seeking to develop their organisations on a scientific basis and generate actionable insights.
Professionals developing research connected to organisational strategy, governance, risk, performance management or change.
Admission Requirements
Academic Qualifications (Required): Proof of academic qualifications at master's level (EQF 7). Copies of diplomas and transcripts are required. A master's degree or equivalent qualification is required.
Curriculum Vitae (Required): Detailed CV demonstrating your academic background, research experience, publications (if any), and professional achievements. Significant professional experience at a senior level is beneficial.
Research Topic (Optional): A description of your proposed research topic (maximum 1 A4 page) for preliminary review and supervisor matching. Helps with supervisor allocation.
Language Requirements (Required): Proficiency in English is required as the programme is conducted entirely in English. Non-native speakers may need to provide proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).
Rolling Admission: No fixed intake dates — start when you're ready.