The Doctor of Business Administration for Senior Executives

An MBA builds general management knowledge over 1–2 years and ends in a taught qualification. A DBA is a doctoral-level degree — 2–4 years, centred on an original research contribution, and confers the title 'Dr.' on completion.

Yes. The DBA is specifically structured for working senior professionals — delivery is online or hybrid, with coursework and supervision built around your existing schedule.

Most candidates complete in 18 to 36 months, depending on the institution and the pace of your research. Some accelerated pathways run closer to 24 months.

Yes — DBAs from our accredited partner universities are recognised across 30+ countries by professional and academic bodies. Your advisor confirms exactly what recognition applies to your specific goals.

Applied research grounded in your own professional context — strategy, finance, operations, digital transformation, or another specialisation aligned to your career, agreed with your supervisor early in the programme.

Yes. Many candidates publish their research in peer-reviewed journals or industry publications, and use it as the foundation for books, articles, or speaking engagements.

Both are doctoral degrees, but a PhD is typically research-only and academically oriented, while a DBA is built for practising executives and judged on real-world applicability alongside academic rigour.

Yes. Upon conferral, DBA graduates may use the 'Dr.' prefix in professional and academic settings, consistent with the conferring institution's guidelines.

An initial consultation, eligibility review, formal application, university interview or assessment, an offer decision, and finally supervisor assignment before you begin.

A Master's degree or equivalent, 7–10+ years of professional experience, a genuine research interest, and typically a current leadership role. English proficiency is required for academic writing.

You are assigned a dedicated academic supervisor at your chosen institution, who guides your research design, monitors progress, and supports you through to thesis defence.

Most candidates commit 10–15 hours per week across coursework, reading, and research — adjusted around milestones like proposal submission and thesis writing.

Delivery varies by institution — options include fully online, hybrid, and occasional in-person residencies. Your advisor helps you choose the format that fits your life.

Fee structures and any available scholarships vary by institution. Your advisor shares transparent, institution-specific fee information during your consultation.