Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Entry requirements

• At least five years’ relevant managerial or senior professional experience, with evidence of leadership responsibility, strategic decision-making, or substantial professional practice in a business or organisational context.
• A Level 7 qualification, such as an MBA, MSc, or equivalent, from a recognised institution at a good level.
• Submission of a research proposal addressing a clearly defined business or management problem. The proposal must demonstrate critical engagement with relevant literature and doctoral-level academic writing skills.
• Applicants are expected to demonstrate preparation for doctoral-level research. This may include prior experience of independent research at Level 7, such as completion of a 60-credit dissertation or equivalent independent research project, and the ability to formulate a clear research proposal addressing a relevant business or management problem.
• Candidates whose experience and proposed research align with supervisory expertise will be invited to an online interview.

Months of entry

October

Course content

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a practice-focused doctoral programme designed for experienced leaders seeking to address complex business challenges through research. It combines academic study with professional application, enabling you to produce research that informs organisational strategy, policy, and decision making.

The programme centres on independent research supported by structured supervision and milestone-based progression. You will develop and deliver an original research project that is directly relevant to your professional context, alongside a practice-oriented output that demonstrates impact in real organisational settings.

A key feature of the DBA is its flexible and accelerated structure, allowing you to balance study with ongoing professional commitments. You will engage with research training through seminars, workshops, and peer discussions, and become part of a wider research community within the Faculty of Business and Law and the Graduate School.

Throughout the programme, you will investigate a significant business or management issue, apply appropriate research methods, and build advanced analytical and strategic capabilities. The programme concludes with a doctoral thesis, a practice-focused output, and a viva voce examination.

Information for international students

International Students | University of Roehampton, London

Fees and funding

Fees and funding | University of Roehampton, London