Award Options
- Dual Awards: IBES & VERN University (VERN)
- Dual Awards: IBES & UTAMED
Programme Aims
The DBA is designed with the following aims:
- To produce and equip a new breed of manager-leaders with the ability to develop a vision for the future, think critically and plan strategically, implement effective business policies and make sound decisions to achieve business goals.
- To enhance the research capability by undertaking a systematic and scientific research which will contribute to both the expansion of knowledge and management practices.
Programme Learning Outcomes
Students graduating from the DBA will be able to:
- Use self-assessment, reflection, critical evaluation, feedback and developments in theory and evidence-based practice to improve their ethical business practice.
- Apply a deep understanding of relevant theory and practices to predict outcomes and create business solutions in a complex environment.
- Communicate key issues effectively and creatively using numerical, graphical, oral and written skills.
- Conduct ethical research on business topics, based on critical analysis of academic research and professional practice, and communicate findings in a scholarly manner.
- Demonstrate proficiency in applying systematic, vigorous research methodologies, design and processes when undertaking original research via the thesis requirement.
Awards to be Conferred
- IBES: Docteur en Administration des Affaires (Doctor of Business Administration) – Sample Certificate
- VERN: Doctor of Business Administration
- UTAMED: Doctorate in Business Administration – Sample Certificate
Programme Structure
The Mixed Mode consists of 5 taught modules (each 10 ECTS) and a Thesis (70 ECTS), totalling 120 ECTS.
| Taught Modules/Thesis | Equivalent to ECTS Credits |
|---|---|
| Managing Strategy | 10 |
| Corporate Finance | 10 |
| Managing Human Resource | 10 |
| Marketing Management | 10 |
| Business Research Methodology | 10 |
| Thesis | 70 |
- Taught Modules: Five core modules are completed before or alongside the thesis.
- Thesis: Following the taught modules, students undertake a thesis of between 25,000 to 30,000 words.
- Oral Defense: A mandatory Viva Voce (oral defense) of the Thesis is required.
Assessment Strategies
- Assessment will be based on the candidate successfully demonstrating achievement of Doctoral-level criteria, including systematic understanding of knowledge, originality in application, and the ability to communicate results in a scholarly manner.
- Taught Modules: Each module is assessed 100% by coursework, typically in the form of a management report, proposal, or strategic plan of 4,000 – 4,500 words.
- Thesis: The thesis (25,000 to 30,000 words) is assessed.
- Oral Defense: A mandatory oral defense (Viva Voce) is required for the Thesis.
Entry Requirements
An applicant may be admitted on the basis of evidence to suggest that he/she will be able to fulfil and benefit from the objectives of the programme:
- A Master’s degree in any field; or other qualifications recognised by IBES as equivalent.
- Demonstrate English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS overall band of 6.0 or equivalent). This can also be met by having undertaken a qualification taught and assessed in English.
- Advanced Standing/Exemptions may be granted for taught modules (including the Research Methodology module) through Accreditation of Prior Learning (APCL or APEL).
Delivery Mode
- Blended Delivery: Combines live classes (12 hours per module), online discussions, and independent study (220 hours per module). The thesis involves 20 hours of live sessions/online supervision and 1,750 hours of independent research.
- Fully Online: Delivered entirely online with virtual learning and supervision. The taught modules involve 8 hours of online discussions and 250 hours of independent study per module. The thesis involves 20 hours of virtual supervision and 1,750 hours of independent research.
- Both modes provide a complete set of learning materials accessible via the Learning Portal.
Duration / Notional Hours
- Maximum Duration: 36 months.
- Notional Hours (Total): Approximately 3000 hours.
- Taught Modules (per module): 250 hours (combination of live/online sessions, discussions, and independent study).
- Thesis: 1,750 hours of directed independent learning and research, plus 20 hours of live sessions/online supervision.
Pricing
| Programme | Award Options | Tuition Fee |
| Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) | IBES + VERN | €13,200 |
| Doctorate in Business Administration | IBES + UTAMED | €9,900 |
