Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA)
Accreditation
(MQF Level 8)
Study Mode
Blended / Online
Duration
72 Months
(Approx. 6 Years)
Tuition Fees
Full: €35,000
Part: €35,000
(Subject to Conversion)
Finance Options
Flexible payment plans available.
Course Overview
The Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) is a rigorous doctoral journey designed for leaders and senior practitioners who want to combine academic research with real-world business impact.
Structured across three phases, the DBA allows candidates to progress from advanced theoretical learning to applied research and doctoral thesis development.
Phase 1 – Taught Stage:
Students complete six advanced modules covering critical thinking, research methodology, academic writing, knowledge management, globalisation, and specialised study areas aligned with their professional focus.
Phase 2 – Thesis Proposal Stage:
Candidates formulate and present a comprehensive doctoral thesis proposal under expert supervision.
Phase 3 – Research and Thesis Stage:
Students conduct independent research and produce a doctoral thesis that contributes new knowledge to business administration practice and scholarship.
By the end of the programme, graduates will demonstrate mastery in research, strategy, leadership, and knowledge creation within complex business environments.
Suitable: Senior professionals, executives, and academics seeking to advance their careers through high-level applied research in business, management, or leadership.
Ideal for individuals aiming to generate new knowledge, lead innovation, and influence organisational change.
Also suited for professionals transitioning into academia or consultancy.
Phase 1 – Taught Stage (6 Modules)
- Critical Thinking and Analysis
- Academic Writing for Doctoral Students
- Research Philosophy, Theory and Methodology
- Knowledge Management
- Impact of Globalisation on Management
- Specialism Individualised Studies (personalised focus area)
Phase 2 – Thesis Proposal Stage
Development and defence of a doctoral research proposal.
Phase 3 – Research and Thesis Stage
Independent research and thesis writing, culminating in a viva examination.
The assessment process includes:
- Assignments (6 total) – approximately 6,000 words each, covering key thematic areas.
- Thesis Proposal – written document (max. 7,500 words) and oral defence.
- Doctoral Thesis – up to 60,000 words (traditional or compilation format).
- Viva Voce Examination – formal defence before internal and external examiners.
Each phase requires a minimum pass mark of 50% to progress to the next stage.
Knowledge:
- Mastery of research paradigms, methodologies, and critical analysis in business.
- Deep understanding of globalisation, innovation, and knowledge management.
- Ability to synthesise theory and practice for strategic decision-making.
Skills:
- Design and conduct original doctoral-level research.
- Develop innovative solutions to complex management issues.
- Produce publishable academic and professional work.
- Lead organisational transformation using evidence-based insights.
Key Information
Qualification Title: Doctorate in Business Administration
Accreditation: Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF Level 8)
Credit Value: Equivalent to 240 ECTS
Duration: 72 Months
Study Mode: Blended / Online
Tuition Fees: €35,000 (Full-Time / Part-Time)
Progression Routes: Postdoctoral Research / Academic Roles
Availability: Local & International Students
Entry Requirements
- Minimum of 240 ECTS across Bachelor’s (Level 6) and Master’s (Level 7) qualifications in management, business, education, engineering, or related fields; or
- A Level 7 Master’s degree (90 ECTS) plus a Level 5 Higher Diploma (120 ECTS) and at least 5 years of managerial experience.
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
- Candidates with OTHM Level 8 Diploma or equivalent may apply via the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process (up to 50% credit transfer).
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
Enquire About This Course
Interested in this programme? Complete the form and our admissions team will provide you with full details on entry requirements, fees, and enrolment steps.
Further Progression
Graduates may:
- Progress into academic and research leadership positions.
- Pursue postdoctoral research or senior consultancy roles.
Serve as thought leaders and innovation strategists within organisations.
Career Prospects
This qualification prepares graduates for high-impact roles, including:
- Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
- Chief Operations Officer (COO)
- Senior Management Consultant
- Business Innovation Strategist
- Corporate Trainer or Leadership Coach
- University Lecturer or Research Supervisor
Graduates of this DBA will be equipped to influence global business policy, lead change, and contribute to academic and professional communities.
FAQ'S
The programme is ideal for senior managers, executives, consultants, and academics seeking to elevate their expertise through doctoral research.
While a PhD is primarily academic, the DBA blends theory and practice, focusing on applied research that solves real business challenges.
Students may choose research areas such as leadership, innovation, strategy, digital transformation, sustainability, or organisational behaviour.
The DBA combines online learning, weekend seminars, and one-to-one supervision with experienced research mentors.
The programme typically takes 72 months, depending on study pace and research progression.
Graduates are awarded the Doctorate in Business Administration (MQF Level 8), an internationally recognised doctoral qualification.
