Doctorate of Business Administration (Advanced Entry)

Awarding Body

Acacia University

Duration

18 Months

Start Date

January/March/ May/July/ September/November

Study Mode

Online

Course Overview

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programme is an advanced degree designed for experienced professionals who wish to expand their leadership skills and significantly contribute to academia and industry. The programme’s focus on developing scholar-practitioners is a unique feature that sets it apart from other postgraduate programmes.

The DBA programme is aimed at individuals with extensive managerial or executive experience and covers core business disciplines such as strategy, leadership, and organisational behaviour. Participants can also specialise in finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship.

The programme is committed to developing scholar-practitioners who can engage with theoretical frameworks and apply this knowledge to design and implement innovative, research-based strategies. The academic rigour of the DBA programme is unparalleled. Participants will delve into their fields’ latest research, theories, and practices. They will also be able to conduct their research and contribute to the body of knowledge in their respective fields.

The programme fosters effective leadership in diverse professional settings, and its graduates are well-equipped to take on leadership roles in academia, industry, and beyond. In conclusion, the DBA programme is a rigorous programme that equips experienced professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to make significant contributions to their fields. The programme’s focus on developing scholar-practitioners sets it apart from other doctoral programmes, and its graduates are well-prepared to take on leadership roles and positively impact academia, industry, and beyond.

Business Research Methods

The course Business Research Methods is designed to provide students with a comprehensiveunderstanding of the research methodologies and techniques used in the field of business. Itaims to equip students with the necessary skills to conduct effective research and makeinformed decisions in a business context. (Credits are in US)

Dissertation 1 (Proposal)

Dissertation 1 guides students through the process of developing a formal research proposal. It includes topic selection, literature review, research questions, and methodological planning. The module culminates in the submission and defence of a research proposal, preparing students for ethical approval and the execution of their research. (Credits are in US)

Dissertation 2 (Defence)

This final dissertation module supports students in completing and defending their doctoral thesis. It covers IRB approval, data collection, advanced analysis, manuscript preparation, and oral defence. Emphasis is placed on scholarly rigour, ethical research practice, and effective communication of findings. (Credits are in US)

What you will achieve

The DBA programme equips students with interdisciplinary skills to analyse real-world business challenges. It emphasises leadership, strategic planning, and effective communication to navigate complex environments and drive positive impact through informed decision-making and strategic leadership.

  • Candidates apply comprehensive, integrated knowledge of core principles of business management, marketing, finance, and technology to analyse current global challenges.
  • Students conduct ethical, innovative, academic research to evaluate practical business performance, management, and organisational issues.
  • By employing an integrated understanding of leadership, strategic planning, ethics, and global trends, participants develop approaches that innovate practice and performance in business.
  • Finally, they communicate research findings, business analyses, evaluations, strategic plans, and proposals to advance global change in the profession.

How you will learn

Acacia University is a US-based institution accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), based in Phoenix, Arizona. The DBA is delivered entirely online. The award is a US doctoral degree.

How you will be assessed

  • Business Research Methods — assessed through coursework and research design activities preparing you for doctoral-level inquiry.
  • Dissertation 1 (Proposal) — you will develop and submit a formal doctoral dissertation proposal for academic review and approval.
  • Dissertation 2 (Defence) — you will complete and defend your doctoral dissertation, demonstrating original research and contribution to knowledge in your chosen field of business.

Note: If Dissertation 1 or Dissertation 2 is not completed and passed in the term in which you initially enrolled, Acacia University requires re-enrolment in a continuation course each eight-week term until completed. Additional continuation fees apply at the doctoral tuition rate. Please confirm current fee structures directly with Acacia University.

This programme is designed for motivated people who are ready to invest in their future. Here is what we look for.

If you have formal qualifications:

  • Completion of the LIBT Postgraduate Doctoral Diploma in Strategic Leadership and Management (Level 8).
  • A master’s degree from an accredited college or university, verified by an original transcript signed and certified by the Registrar or responsible officer of the awarding institution. Applicants submitting transcripts from non-US institutions may be required to have their transcript evaluated by a NACES member agency.
  • Applicants must currently hold or have held a professional position relevant to the intended field of study.
  • An updated and detailed CV or résumé.
  • Proof of identity valid passport or government-issued ID.
  • A personal statement of 300 to 500 words covering: your reasons for pursuing the doctorate; your career goals; how the DBA will help you meet those goals; and prior experiences relevant to the programme.
  • English language: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. Applicants who hold a master’s degree from an English-medium institution are exempt from this requirement.
  • An online interview may be required at Acacia University’s discretion as part of the admissions process.
― Awarding Body ―

Awarding Body

Founded in 2003 and based in Phoenix, Arizona, Acacia University is a US institution accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), recognised by the US Department of Education. Acacia is also an approved institution of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), enabling it to provide distance learning programmes to students across the United States and internationally.

Acacia University is committed to providing accessible, quality education to a multicultural, global learning community through fully online study. Its School of Business offers doctoral and master’s degree programmes designed for working professionals, combining academic rigour with flexibility and practical relevance.

― FAQ ―

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for this advanced entry DBA pathway?

This advanced entry pathway is open to graduates of the LIBT Postgraduate Doctoral Diploma in Strategic Leadership and Management (Level 8) who also hold a master’s degree from an accredited university. Your Level 8 diploma satisfies the taught coursework component of the DBA, allowing you to enter directly at the dissertation stage. You must also currently hold or have previously held a professional position relevant to your intended field of study.

What does the advanced entry stage involve?

You will complete three courses: Business Research Methods (6 credits), Dissertation 1 – Proposal (6 credits), and Dissertation 2 – Defence (6 credits), totalling 18 credits. These constitute the capstone phase of the full 60-credit DBA programme at Acacia University. On successful completion, you are awarded the Doctor of Business Administration by Acacia University, Arizona, USA.

What documents are required to apply to Acacia University?

Applicants must submit: a verified transcript of their master’s degree, the LIBT Level 8 Doctoral Diploma, an updated CV, valid proof of identity, and a personal statement of 300 to 500 words covering your reasons for pursuing the doctorate, your career goals, and relevant prior experience. An online interview may also be required at Acacia University’s discretion.

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£8900.00

  • Awarding Body: Acacia University
  • Duration: 18 Months
  • Start Date: January/March/ May/July/ September/November
  • Study Mode: Online
  • Credits: 60

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