| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-10-01 | - |
| 2025-10-01 | - |
Program Overview
The DBA program is designed for high-performing professionals seeking to contribute to organizational development and engage in research. It offers a combination of workshops, seminars, and an annual research conference, with assessment through written work and an oral examination. Graduates typically advance into roles requiring expert knowledge and independent expertise, such as consultancy, organizational development, and senior leadership positions.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Our DBA is designed for high-performing professionals to stimulate organisational, national or international development and contribute to wider debates in their field. Innovative research solutions are now required to tackle the challenging circumstances facing contemporary organisations. Our DBA participants positively engage with these challenges as active members of our research community. Our aim is to develop leading practitioner-researchers who inspire strategic change and contribute to wider debates in our areas of expertise. You will join a growing researcher community with student satisfaction above national average (Higher Education Academy Postgraduate Research Experience Survey). You can also fast track your doctoral journey by getting recognition for your previous Master’s-level achievements .
- It is expected that participants will apply for the Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning for the first stage of the doctoral course: an MBA or equivalent Master’s award in the area of business, leadership or management. We are now seeking strong applicants who can develop and contribute high-impact research to our areas of expertise.
Outline:
Year 1
Our researchers initially engage with the IS8004 Researcher and Research Development module to build foundational but advanced expertise before undertaking the IS8005 Research Project (Thesis). In the first year, there will be 10 workshops (held via on-line live delivery on one Friday per month, approximating 40 hours).
Teaching:
Teaching is through group workshops, seminars and an annual research conference
Assessment:
Assessment is through a written work and an oral examination
Careers:
Our doctoral graduates typically advance their careers into roles which require high levels of expert knowledge and independent expertise, such as consultancy, organisational development, self-employment, executive coaching, senior roles in academe, and strategic leadership positions in business.
Other:
Our DBA doctoral participants engage with a combination of activities in our pioneering Researcher Development Hub and the wider University research community at our Queen’s Park Campus, in conjunction with high-level critical reflection, and sustained independent self-directed study. Our researchers will engage in group workshops, seminars, an annual research conference, and any relevant professional body activities. Whilst on programme, participants are typically expected to engage with their supervisory team on a monthly basis with individual activities customised in conjunction with your research supervisor and which may take place in person or via on-line live delivery. Our researchers focus on a range of themes which normally build on and extend a field developed during their MBA (or equivalent). It is therefore expected that participants will apply for the Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning for the first stage of the doctoral course, e.g. with a MBA (or equivalent) related to the expected area of research. The DBA is assessed through a portfolio of written work (15,000-20,000 words), and a Research Project (Thesis) that involves an academic report plus an oral examination (45,000-55,000 words).
Tuition Fees and Payment Information:
Home Students
The tuition fees for home students studying Doctor of Business Administration in 2024/25 are £4,786 per year.
International/EU Students
The tuition fees for home students studying Doctor of Business Administration in 2024/25 are £9,287 per year. The University of Chester offers generous international and merit-based scholarships for postgraduate study, providing a significant reduction to the published headline tuition fee. You will automatically be considered for these scholarships when your application is reviewed, and any award given will be stated on your offer letter. For more information, go to our International Fees, Scholarship and Finance section. Irish Nationals living in the UK or ROI are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes.
Additional Costs
Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees. This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software. Compulsory field trips are covered by your tuition fees. If you are living away from home during your time at university, you will need to cover costs such as accommodation, food, travel and bills.
University of Chester
Overview:
The University of Chester is a public university located in Chester, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university is known for its modern learning facilities and its historic city setting.
Services Offered:
The university provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options are available.Student Support:
A dedicated team provides academic, personal, and financial support.Fees and Finance:
Information on tuition fees, scholarships, and financial aid is available.Careers and Employability:
Services include career guidance, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.Sport and Active Lifestyle:
The university offers a variety of sports clubs and facilities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Chester can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university is located in a historic city with a rich cultural heritage, offering numerous opportunities for exploration and leisure. The university also boasts a strong student community with a variety of clubs, societies, and events.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Award-Winning University:
The University of Chester has received numerous awards for its student experience, including being ranked 1st in the UK for its international student experience.Modern Learning Facilities:
The university offers state-of-the-art facilities, including libraries, laboratories, and computer labs.Historic City Setting:
Chester is a charming city with a rich history and culture, providing a unique and enriching learning environment.Strong Student Community:
The university has a vibrant student community with a wide range of clubs, societies, and events.Academic Programs:
The University of Chester offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
The university offers a variety of undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including nursing, midwifery, social work, teaching, and business.Postgraduate Programs:
The university also offers a range of postgraduate programs, including master's degrees and research degrees.Other:
The university has several University Centres located in Birkenhead, Nantwich, and Warrington, offering a range of professionally-focused, practice-based courses. The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability and conservation.
Entry Requirements:
Home Students and International/EU Students:
- Employment/Self-Employment: Applicants must be employed or self-employed and be in a position to influence organizational, sectoral, or national policy.
- Academic Qualifications:
- An Honours degree with a minimum of an upper second class from a recognised university.
- A Master's degree in a relevant field with a minimum of a 'merit' profile from a recognised university.
- Work Experience: A minimum of 5 years' experience of substantial responsibility and appropriate seniority to specify and implement significant change initiatives within your organization or sector.
- Research Proposal:
- Relevance of the research proposal, ensuring that the proposed topic addresses a practice problem faced by managers and organizations.
- The results of the research have the potential to make a significant contribution by identifying relevant solutions.
- Writing Skills: Advanced skills in writing evidenced by a 1,000-word (max.) project proposal outlining the 'what, why, and how' of a research project (contact the programme leader for specific guidance).
- Professional Development: Commitment to advanced continuing professional development.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- English Language Requirements: Students whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate competence at IELTS Level 7.0.
- Alternative English Language Tests: The University of Chester offers its own online English language test for £50 for those who do not have IELTS or an acceptable in-country English language qualification.
