Executive Doctor of Business Administration
Turn Executive Experience Into Applied Business Research.
An executive doctorate for experienced professionals seeking to address complex business challenges through advanced research, critical thinking and applied management knowledge.
Study full-time or part-time through online or blended learning, with flexible intakes and progression designed around professional commitments.
Programme Overview
Executive Business Research Grounded in Professional Practice.
The IBSS Executive Doctor of Business Administration is designed for experienced professionals who want to strengthen their ability to address complex business challenges through advanced research, critical thinking and applied management knowledge.
The programme develops the ability to evaluate complex organisational issues, apply advanced research methods and draw on interdisciplinary business knowledge in professional decision-making.
Students complete a focused group of doctoral-level courses before progressing to the Dissertation Research Paper.
Develop stronger research methodology and analytical skills for investigating complex business and organisational issues.
Strengthen critical thinking, problem-solving and independent judgement at doctoral level.
Connect advanced academic research with practical management experience and real-world organisational challenges.
Develop deeper capability in international business, managerial economics and organisational leadership.
Build specialist knowledge supporting senior leadership, consulting, research and advanced professional practice.
Flexible Study
Designed Around Professional Commitments.
The programme is particularly suited to senior managers, executives, entrepreneurs, consultants and experienced professionals seeking deeper expertise in business research, leadership and organisational decision-making.
Programme Structure
Focused Doctoral Courses. Applied Dissertation Research.
The Executive DBA begins with five advanced courses in business administration and research. Individual courses are generally structured for completion within approximately 4–8 weeks before students progress to the Dissertation Research Paper.
Taught Courses
All Students
Your Executive DBA Path
Course Details
Five Advanced Courses. One Applied Research Journey.
The taught stage develops advanced business understanding, analytical capability and the research foundations required for the Dissertation Research Paper.
Research
Philosophy
International
Business
Advanced
Statistics
Managerial
Economics
Organisational
Leadership
Dissertation
Research Paper
Entry Requirements
Your Route Into the Executive DBA.
Applicants should meet the applicable academic, professional-experience and English-language requirements for admission.
Academic Requirement
Master’s Degree Approved by IBSS
Applicants should normally hold a recognised Master’s degree approved by IBSS. Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field may also be considered where they have at least 10 years of management experience in a business-related field.
English Language
IELTS 6.5 or Approved Equivalent
Applicants should demonstrate English-language proficiency through IELTS 6.5 or an approved equivalent.
Individual Assessment
Experience and qualifications are reviewed by IBSS.
The admissions team reviews each application against the Executive DBA requirements and can advise on eligibility before enrolment.
Unsure whether your qualifications and experience meet the Executive DBA entry requirements?
Speak With AdmissionsFrequently Asked Questions
Before You Apply.
Who is the Executive DBA designed for?
It is particularly suited to experienced professionals, including senior managers, executives, entrepreneurs and consultants seeking deeper expertise in business research, leadership and organisational decision-making.
How can I study the Executive DBA?
The programme can be studied full-time or part-time through online or blended learning arrangements.
Can I study while working?
Yes. Direct IBSS study uses a flexible format designed to accommodate experienced professionals balancing doctoral study with work and other commitments.
When can I begin?
Eligible students can begin throughout the year rather than waiting for a fixed annual intake.
How long does the programme take?
The Executive DBA can be completed in a minimum of approximately 18 months, with a maximum study period of 48 months. More intensive progression is possible for students able to dedicate additional time, subject to completing the required academic work.
What will I study?
The taught courses are Research Philosophy, International Business, Advanced Statistics, Managerial Economics and Organisational Leadership, followed by the Dissertation Research Paper.
How are individual courses structured?
Individual courses are generally structured for completion within approximately 4–8 weeks before students progress to the dissertation phase.
What are the entry requirements?
Applicants should normally hold a recognised Master’s degree approved by IBSS. Applicants with a relevant Bachelor’s degree may be considered with at least 10 years of business-related management experience. IELTS 6.5 or an approved equivalent is required.
How many credits does the Executive DBA carry?
The Executive Doctor of Business Administration carries 105 ECTS.
What must I complete to graduate?
Students must successfully pass all required courses and complete the Dissertation Research Paper.
Take the Next Step
Advance Your Expertise. Apply Research to Professional Practice.
Explore an Executive DBA designed for experienced professionals who want to deepen their research capability, leadership insight and ability to address complex business challenges.
Prospective Students
Ready to Begin Your Executive DBA Journey?
Speak with the IBSS admissions team about eligibility, flexible intakes, study format and the application process.
Flexible Study
Designed Around Professional Commitments.
Choose full-time or part-time study through online or blended learning, with a progression period of approximately 18–48 months.
Executive DBA Enquiry
Speak With Admissions.
Complete the form and the admissions team can advise on eligibility, study format and the next steps for enrolment.