Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) – (Top Up)
Course Title
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Course Type
Top Up
Course Level
Doctorate
Study Method
Distance Learning
Start Date
January / March / May / July / September / November
Course Duration
1.5 – 2 years
Awarded & Delivered By
Course Description
The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Top-Up program is tailored for experienced professionals and executive leaders aiming to deepen their mastery of global business principles, applied research, and advanced decision-making. The curriculum provides an in-depth exploration of critical contemporary business challenges, including corporate social responsibility, organizational change, and globalization.
DBA Top-Up program allows working executives to earn their degree in just 24 credits by offering a 50% credit exemption for graduates of our Qualifi Level 8 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership. The program holds top-tier accreditation from WSCUC and ACBSP (recognized by CHEA)
Graduates learn to evaluate innovative growth models and construct research-backed management practices to solve emerging global challenges, culminating their studies in a Doctoral Dissertation and Comprehensive Learning Assessments.
Course Content
The DBA Top Up is structured in a way that allows you to develop the necessary academic skills to complement your existing professional skills set. Doctorial courses consist of four 3 credit modules. Dissertation/Project consists of primary research, based on your preceding work totaling 12 credits.
DOCTORAL COURSES​
This module introduces students to the fundamental principles of doctoral-level study, academic research and scholarly inquiry. Students develop skills in critical thinking, academic writing, evaluating literature and understanding research methodologies. The module also introduces different research designs, ethical considerations and the procedures involved in conducting responsible academic research. It establishes a strong foundation for independent doctoral investigation and prepares students for the research requirements of the DBA programme.
This module guides students through the development of a structured research prospectus that forms the basis of their doctoral dissertation or research project. Students identify a relevant business or management research problem, formulate research questions and objectives, and establish the significance of their proposed study. They also explore suitable research methodologies and develop a preliminary research framework. By the end of the module, students should have a clearly defined research direction and a prospectus suitable for academic review.
This module develops students’ ability to critically examine, evaluate and synthesise existing academic literature relevant to their selected research topic. Students analyse established theories, conceptual frameworks and empirical research to identify gaps in existing knowledge and establish the theoretical foundations of their investigation. The module emphasises critical analysis, scholarly argumentation and the integration of credible academic sources. Students work towards producing a comprehensive literature review that supports and justifies their doctoral research.
Students select one advanced research module according to their research interests, methodological preferences and the requirements of their proposed dissertation or research project.
Option A: DOC 706 – Advanced Quantitative Research Methods
This module develops advanced knowledge and practical skills in quantitative research methodologies. Students explore statistical analysis, research design, hypothesis testing, data interpretation and the application of quantitative techniques to complex business and management problems. Emphasis is placed on the selection and application of appropriate statistical methods, ensuring research reliability and validity, and drawing evidence-based conclusions from numerical data.
Option B: DOC 711 – Advanced Qualitative Research Methods
This module provides an advanced understanding of qualitative research approaches and their application to organisational and business research. Students examine methods such as interviews, case studies, observations and thematic analysis to investigate complex human and organisational phenomena. The module emphasises qualitative research design, systematic data analysis, interpretation of findings and ethical research practices, enabling students to undertake rigorous investigations of business and management issues.
Option C: DOC 712 – Applied Research for Real-World Impact
This module focuses on the practical application of research methodologies to address real-world organisational and business challenges. Students explore approaches to identifying business problems, conducting systematic investigations and translating research findings into practical recommendations. The module encourages evidence-based decision-making and the development of research solutions that contribute to organisational effectiveness, strategic improvement and professional practice.
DISSERTATION / PROJECT
This module introduces students to the formal development of their doctoral dissertation or research project. Working with academic supervision, students refine their research topic, establish the background and significance of their investigation, and develop their research objectives and questions. Students begin preparing the introductory sections of their research and reviewing relevant academic literature. The module establishes the research foundation and provides a structured direction for subsequent dissertation or project development.
This module focuses on developing and refining the research methodology and preparing the study for implementation. Students determine appropriate research designs, data collection methods, sampling approaches and analytical techniques that align with their research objectives. They address methodological limitations, research ethics and the requirements for relevant institutional approvals. Students also incorporate academic feedback to strengthen the research proposal and ensure that the planned investigation is academically rigorous and practically feasible.
This module concentrates on implementing the approved research methodology and systematically analysing research findings. Students undertake data collection, organise and analyse the information gathered, and evaluate the results in relation to their research questions and the existing academic literature. Emphasis is placed on producing credible findings, interpreting evidence objectively and identifying the implications of the research. Students progressively develop the findings and analysis sections of their dissertation or doctoral research project.
This final module focuses on completing, reviewing and presenting the doctoral dissertation or research project. Students consolidate their research findings, formulate conclusions and develop practical or theoretical recommendations arising from their investigation. They evaluate the contribution of their research to business and management knowledge or professional practice, address academic feedback and finalise their work in accordance with university requirements. The module prepares students for the final submission and the applicable dissertation defence or research project presentation.
Study Method
Delivered 100% online, the curriculum enables students to master advanced business theory, apply rigorous research methodologies, and leverage empirical data to drive high-level strategic decision-making and sustainable competitive advantage.
Enrol Now​
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Course Fees
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Apply Now
Apply now to embark on your academic journey and unlock endless opportunities! Join our vibrant community of scholars and leaders, and pursue your passion with an internationally recognised British qualification.
Click Apply Now to start your application for the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) – (Top Up) programme today.
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