The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a research degree program designed for experienced managers.  It offers an opportunity to take your business and management knowledge and understanding to a higher level and, importantly, to relate it closely to your workplace needs.  Like the Ph.D., the DBA offers a doctoral qualification but, in this case, one that is more directly linked to the world of work.

About the Program

The programme consists of the following elements:

• - directed reading after enrolment;
• - approval of proposed research topic;
• - attending a Research Methods Seminar, incorporating workshops about writing a literature review and undertaking research using the action research and case research methodologies;
• - approval of your research proposal by a Supervisory Panel and subsequently by the AIB Ethics Committee;
• - carrying out your research and writing a thesis of between 40,000 and 50,000 words.

You will be accompanied and supported on your research journey by an expert Research Supervisor.  Where it is not feasible to have regular face-to-face interaction, use will be made of other means of communication.  Contact will also be encouraged with other research students.

As with all AIB programs, the Doctor of Business Administration is accredited within the Australian Qualifications Framework.

When can I join?
As this is a research degree program you may enrol at any time.  You will receive a reading pack after enrolment, and you will be advised of the dates of the next Research Methods Seminar.

How long will it take to complete?
The program must be completed in a minimum of three and a maximum of six years. The Research & Higher Degrees Committee will consider whether there is a case for extensions of time beyond six years.

What qualifications do I need to be accepted?
AIB will be looking for candidates with:

• - an MBA with credit level Grade Point Average (GPA);
• - proficiency in written and spoken English, and in relevant numeracy skills;
• - at least 5 years of management or appropriate professional experience;
• - a proposed research topic in an area acceptable to AIB; and
• - where relevant, a letter of consent from their organization, confirming support for the proposed workplace research.

Candidates without all of the above requirements may still apply and their case will be considered on a discretionary basis.

Can I join if I live outside Australia?
Yes, thanks to modern communications, you can.  It will be necessary for you to attend the important Research Methods Seminar in Adelaide.  There are a number of AIB travel scholarships to cover air fare costs, and you may apply for one of these.

How much will it cost?

Current fee rates and associated conditions will be provided separately by the Research Manager.  Discounted rates are sometimes available. AIB is a member of a Tuition Assurance Scheme for the protection of student fees.