De Montfort University United Kingdom

Doctor of Business Administration DBA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon October 2026

Course Overview

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) at De Montfort University is your pathway to becoming a thought leader at the intersection of professional practice and academic research. This postgraduate programme is designed for senior professionals, managers, and consultants who aim to develop original solutions to real-world business issues and drive organisational innovation. You will engage deeply with research paradigms, explore leading professional practice literature, and challenge assumptions underpinning current business strategies. This DBA is ideal if you seek to build your forensic and investigative skills for knowledge-based investigations and navigate complex organisational change.

Studied full-time on campus over three years, your DBA journey begins with framing your study through structured literature reviews and developing a robust research design. Year two focuses on operating a pilot study and developing your thesis, followed by intensive fieldwork, analysis of findings, and writing your thesis document in subsequent years. You will work alongside experienced faculty, fostering reflective skills and intellectual rigour. You will graduate with a Doctor of Business Administration, equipped with advanced research capabilities and practical insights to make a significant impact in your organisation and profession.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Doctor of Business Administration program focuses on bridging professional business practice with academic research. Year one emphasizes framing your study by reviewing literature, challenging assumptions through research paradigms, and developing a robust research design for fieldwork. Subsequent years involve conducting a pilot study, analyzing findings, and completing your thesis document.

1 Year 1: Framing the study (building on the research proposal) in order to connect professional business and academic research domains effectively

A structured review of research and leading professional practice literature Compulsory
Challenging assumptions underpinning practice - Research Paradigms and Philosophies Compulsory
Development of the Research Design – Preparation for Field Work/ Pilot Study Compulsory

2 Year 2 (Sept - Dec): Operation of the Pilot Study and Development of Thesis

3 Year 3 to Year 4 (Full-time) and Year 4 to Year 6 (Part-time): Ongoing Field Work, Analysis of Findings and Writing up of Thesis Document

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,627.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,627.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,627.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 64,881.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 549.00 - USD 1,588.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 9,666.00
Transport USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,417.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,611.00 - USD 3,222.00
Estimated Total USD 7,572.00 - USD 15,305.00

Living cost estimates are based on Leicester Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agribusiness Inputs (Seeds, Fertilizers & Machinery)Agricultural Marketing & SalesBlockchain & Emerging TechnologiesBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesCustomer Experience & SupportEnergy Storage & TechnologyFashion Marketing & Brand ManagementFashion Technology & E-CommerceInsurance & Risk ManagementNetworking & Internet Services

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Accenture

Capgemini

DHL

HSBC Bank

IBM

Microsoft

National Farmers'​ Union

Next

Why Study Doctor of Business Administration DBA at De Montfort University

What makes this program stand out

October 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in October 2026

Life at De Montfort University in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Doctor of Business Administration DBA at De Montfort University

Can I work while studying?

You can work up to 20 hours per week while studying full-time. However, if on a Student visa for a part-time course, you're not allowed to work.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Please confirm accreditation details directly with the institution.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you must achieve an IELTS score with a minimum overall score of 6.5, including a listening score of 6.0. Ensure you meet all individual component requirements as well.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as business consultants, senior managers, organizational leaders, or academic researchers.

What will I actually study in this course?

The DBA program focuses on developing original business solutions and enhancing investigative skills through academic research. Key topics include research paradigms and organisational innovation.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The DBA program at De Montfort University has intakes in January, April, and October each year. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your place.
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