Business Administration DBA
University of StaffordshireStoke-on-Trent campus, United Kingdom
Course overview
100% of our business and management research impact is recognised as “very considerable” or “outstanding” Ranked 1st in the sector for Business and Management for overall satisfaction in the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) 2026 In business and management (Research Excellence Framework 2021) The world of business and commerce demands highly competent professionals – individuals who are equipped with the ability to make key decisions and face strategic challenges head on. If you want to be able to support your judgement with evidence-based data and bring measurable change to your organisation, the Doctor of Business Administration course is ideal. Similar to the PhD, the DBA is the highest qualification achievable in Higher Education (Level 8).
It is a common choice for practicing managers and senior professional practitioners who wish to pursue their academic, personal and career development beyond a Masters degree (Level 7) through a rigorous and challenging programme of study and research. The DBA is aimed at those who want to make a difference to the way that management and professional practice in the fields of organisation and management will be developed in the future.
Key highlights
- Level 8 doctorate, the highest qualification in Higher Education
- Designed for practising managers and senior professional practitioners
- Develops evidence-based decision making to drive measurable organisational change
- Six taught Level 7 modules followed by doctoral research
- Business and management research impact rated very considerable or outstanding (REF 2021)
- Ranked 1st for Business and Management satisfaction in PTES 2026
Entry requirements
- Additional condition: interview — All candidates will be interviewed to assess their suitability which will include the understanding of their broad research theme.
Scholarships
Alumni Discount
25% on tuition fees compared to other universities, making your postgraduate degree a smart investment.
PGCE Bursary
The PGCE Bursary comprises six awards of £500 each.
Up to £500
Careers this course leads to
- Senior executive
- Management consultant
- Business school lecturer
- Strategy director
- Organisational development director
- Business researcher
Cost of study
UK/Home: £6,500 per year | International: £6,500 per year
Admission
Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Staffordshire, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.
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