Doctor of Business Administration DBA
Course overview
The Robert Gordon University Doctor of Business Administration DBA is a professional doctorate programme that combines advanced academic thinking with practical business knowledge and skills. It is designed for experienced professionals seeking to generate new knowledge and significantly enhance modern management policies and practices within their fields.
The course includes lectures, seminars, and workshops, with each module providing 50 hours of contact time and an additional 50 hours of expected independent study. Assessment methods include written examinations, coursework, and practical examinations, with feedback provided within 20 working days to support learning progression.
Entry requirements
Candidates are required to submit a personal statement in which they discuss their reasons for applying to the course and provide other relevant information about their studies. A relevant academic and/or employer reference is also required. Students have the option to upload their CVs along with their applications to demonstrate their work experience.
Grade Requirements:
- Applicants typically need an MBA or a master's degree in a relevant area.
- Additionally, a minimum of three years of significant managerial experience is required.
- All candidates will undergo an interview and must prepare a research outline as part of the application process.
English Proficiency:
- Applicants from non-English speaking backgrounds need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.5 in each component, or providing equivalent recognised English language test scores like PTE or TOEFL.
Scholarships
Alumni Discount
A 20% discount is provided exclusively on tuition fees and not to any associated course costs.
Up to 20% of feesChevening Scholarship
International Students Emergency Fund
The fund aims to help students with basic living costs such as food, utilities and rent.
RGU Early Deposit Payment Discount
Self-funding students paying an international fee joining in the September 2026 intake who pay their deposit will receive an additional £500 discount.
Up to £500RGU Financial Award for MBA Students
10% discount towards tuition fees.
Up to 10% of feesRGU Golf Scholarship
Up to £8,500 per year
RGU International Merit Based Scholarship for Masters Students
Value - £5,000 discount on postgraduate fees.
Up to £5,000RGU International Student Discount for Master's Students
Students from Kenya, Indonesia and Nepal will receive a £4,000 discount. All other countries listed will receive a £3,000 discount.
RGU International Student Discount for Research Students
£3,000 discount towards postgraduate research tuition fees.
Up to £3,000RGU International Student Discount for Undergraduate Students
£2,000 discount on each year of study of undergraduate tuition fees.
Up to £2,000RGU SPORT Scholarship
Financial assistance is awarded to support travel, training, equipment and competition expenses accrued during the academic year.
Vice-Chancellor's Undergraduate Scholarship
Career opportunities
The Doctor of Business Administration programme is specifically designed to enhance professional practice and provide significant professional credibility. Graduates are well-prepared to work as:
- Senior Management Executive
- University Lecturer/Researcher
- Policy Advisor
- Organisational Development Lead
- Director of Strategy
Cost of study
For the academic year 2025-2026, the tuition fee for the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programme is £16,020.
Admission
Applicants interested in this programme should submit their applications through the university’s online application form. Please speak to our experienced advisors for help.
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