DBA Business Administration at University of Staffordshire

Programme overview

The DBA is a part-time, blended-learning professional doctorate (Level 8) for experienced senior leaders and strategic managers who want to conduct original, practice-based research that contributes to professional practice. Unlike a traditional PhD, it includes a substantial taught knowledge element as well as a research thesis. The programme has a strong emphasis on strategy and executive leadership.

Faculty: Business School | Duration: 5 years part-time (2 years taught at Level 7, 6 modules, plus 3 years of research at Level 8) | Intake: September | Location: Stoke-on-Trent, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 opens with Critique of Practice and Leadership (30 credits) followed by Research Problem Formation (30 credits), then evidence review and research methods modules. The expected pattern is 120 taught credits over two years (with interim PG Certificate and PG Diploma in Practice Based Research awards), then 420 credits of research across a research proposal in year 3 and the DBA thesis in years 4 and 5.

Career pathways

Participants are usually already senior in their organisations; typical roles include Chief Executive, Divisional Head, Departmental Head and Senior Consultant.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Professionals with significant senior-level managerial experience; individuals with strong industry backgrounds (and access to data for the practice-based project) and entrepreneurs may be considered. At least one Level 7 qualification (Masters/MBA/MRes/MPhil) passed at 50% or equivalent; in exceptional circumstances, an outstanding undergraduate degree with significant professional experience. All candidates are interviewed, including on their broad research theme. International applicants: IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each band (or equivalent); TOEFL/GMAT/GRE scores no more than 2 years old are also considered.

Intake: September

Duration: 5 years part-time (2 years taught at Level 7, 6 modules, plus 3 years of research at Level 8)

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