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Students
Tuition Fee
GBP 22,050
Start Date
2025-10-01
Medium of studying
Fully Online
Duration
48 months
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
PhD
Major
Business Administration | Leadership Studies | Management
Area of study
Business and Administration
Education type
Fully Online
Timing
Part time
Course Language
English
Tuition Fee
Average International Tuition Fee
GBP 22,050
Intakes
Program start dateApplication deadline
2025-03-01-
2025-10-01-
About Program

Program Overview


Business Administration (DBA) (Online) Doctorate

Overview

Today’s global business environment is disruptive and dynamic, posing various organisational leadership challenges. Our 100% online DBA programme gives you the knowledge and skills you need as a business leader.


Course Details

Core Modules

  • Applying Management and Organisational Studies Research
    • You review recent and ongoing developments in the areas of management and organisation theory.
    • You examine current debates concerning the nature and role of leadership and management in shaping organisational practices in the public and private sectors.
  • DBA Advanced Independent Study
    • The module provides the opportunity for management-related professionals to consolidate your learning experiences through a self-initiated research project that significantly contributes to the development of new knowledge within the context of business studies.
  • Research Methods for Doctoral Students
    • This module draws on a range of traditions within the social sciences, and shows considerable methodological diversity.
    • You are introduced to a breadth of research philosophies and methodological approaches.

How You Learn

  • This course focuses on preparing you for success in the global workplace, by making you research-active, future-ready, globally-connected, socially and ethically engaged, and digitally empowered.
  • It is underpinned by a focus on industry, employers and practice.
  • Project-based learning is core, drawing directly on industry projects, real-world scenarios, employment/enterprise experiences, and global initiatives.

How You Are Assessed

  • Assessments draw directly on industry projects and real-world scenarios where appropriate and reflect professional body requirements.
  • They are inclusive and have been developed to consider the needs of students with protected characteristics.
  • Throughout the course, you are regularly informally assessed and provided with feedback, allowing you to identify areas for improvement.

Entry Requirements

  • A master's degree: applicants should have a master's degree in a subject that has aspects that relate to business and/or management.
  • +3 years' management experience: all applicants should have a minimum three years' managerial experience.
  • Research proposal: all applicants are required to complete a short research proposal.
  • English language: applicants whose first language is not English will need to satisfy the English language requirements which are a minimum overall score of 6.5 IELTS, and 5.5 in each band.

Employability

  • As a graduate, you may move into senior management and strategic leadership roles, or internal and external project consultancy roles.
  • At the point of application, you are expected to be a senior business-based professional, as the course builds on your existing work experience and skills to develop you as a research-informed business leader.

Learning Platform

  • Our virtual learning environment (VLE) is the platform you use to access your online course.
  • Teesside University online learning courses are delivered through the Brightspace Learning Environment.

Fees

  • Part-time: £22,050 (£1,050 for each 20 credits)
  • Not eligible for any fee discounts

Duration and Attendance

  • Length: 4 years
  • Attendance: 100% online
  • Start date: March and October

Research Areas

  • Human resource management
  • Organisation behaviour
  • Innovation
  • Marketing

Career Opportunities

  • Senior management and strategic leadership roles
  • Internal and external project consultancy roles

University Information

  • Teesside University ranked in the top 50 for online learning in the Uswitch Online Learning Index 2022.
  • Teesside University was named University of the Year at the Edufuturists Awards 2022.
  • Ranked in the top 350 list of global universities aged 50 years or under.
  • Over 1,000 students enrolled on our open learning courses.

Program Outline


Degree Overview


Overview:

The Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) (Online) program at Teesside University is designed for senior business professionals who want to enhance their knowledge and skills in research, leadership, and organizational transformation. It is a 100% online program that allows students to study at their own pace and around their existing commitments.


Objectives:

  • Develop the knowledge and skills required of business leaders in the complex environment of the fourth industrial revolution.
  • Become a research-informed business leader, applying best practices within your own management and organization.
  • Gain a range of perspectives on business effectiveness, efficiency, and capability through theory and practical study.
  • Reflect on your skills, challenging your assumptions to transform your professional practice.
  • Build confidence in academic research to study at the doctoral level.

Description:

The DBA program combines pre-recorded lectures with tutorials and independent study to provide a flexible and engaging learning experience. Students choose a research topic aligned with their personal and professional goals and conduct independent research under the guidance of a supervisory team. They then write a thesis and defend it at an oral examination.


Outline


Program Content:

The DBA program covers a range of topics related to business administration and management, including:

  • Internationalization and globalization
  • Organizational practices
  • Management theory
  • Organizational development
  • Change theory
  • Comparative management theory
  • Talent management
  • Reflective practice
  • Research methods
  • Data analysis
  • Ethics

Program Structure:

The DBA program consists of three core modules:


Applying Management and Organisational Studies Research:

This module develops a critical understanding of contemporary issues in organization behavior and development and applies research skills to produce a literature review.


DBA Advanced Independent Study:

This module requires students to conduct independent research and apply it to the organizational and/or professional field.


Research Methods for Doctoral Students:

This module provides a thorough introduction to management research and research methods for doctoral students.


Course Schedule:

The DBA program is delivered through a virtual learning environment (VLE). Students can access lectures, tutorials, and other learning materials at their own pace and on their own schedule.


Modules:

  • Applying Management and Organisational Studies Research: This module focuses on internationalization and globalization, organizational practices, and management theory.
  • DBA Advanced Independent Study: This module allows students to conduct independent research on a topic of their choice.
  • Research Methods for Doctoral Students: This module covers research philosophies, methodologies, data analysis, and ethical considerations.

Assessment


Assessment Methods:

The DBA program uses a range of assessment methods, including:

  • Research reports
  • Literature reviews
  • Case study analysis
  • Self-diagnostic assessments
  • Reflective analysis
  • Research proposal
  • Pilot study
  • Thesis

Assessment Criteria:

The assessment criteria for the DBA program are based on the following:

  • Depth and breadth of knowledge
  • Critical thinking and analysis
  • Research skills
  • Communication skills
  • Originality and creativity

Teaching


Teaching Methods:

The DBA program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:

  • Pre-recorded lectures
  • Tutorials
  • Independent study
  • Online discussion forums
  • Virtual action learning sets
  • Podcasts and vodcasts

Faculty:

The DBA program is taught by a team of experienced and qualified faculty members with expertise in business administration and management.


Unique Approaches:

The DBA program takes a flexible and student-centered approach to learning. Students can study at their own pace and around their existing commitments. The program also provides students with access to a range of support services, including academic advisors, librarians, and career counselors.


Careers


Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the DBA program may move into senior management and strategic leadership roles, or internal and external project consultancy roles.


Career Outcomes:

The DBA program prepares students for a variety of leadership roles in business organizations, including:

  • Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
  • Chief Operating Officer (COO)
  • Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
  • Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)
  • Managing Director
  • Senior Business Analyst
  • Management Consultant

Other


Program Length:

4 years


Attendance:

100% online


Start Date:

October and March


Fees:

£22,050 (£1,050 for each 20 credits)


Entry Requirements:

  • Master's degree in a subject related to business and/or management
  • 3 years of management experience
  • Research proposal
  • English language proficiency (minimum IELTS score of 6.5)
  • Interview

Application Process:

  • Apply online
  • Submit a research proposal
  • Attend an interview

Additional Information:

  • The DBA program is ranked in the top 50 for online learning in the Uswitch Online Learning Index 2022.
  • Teesside University was named University of the Year at the Edufuturists Awards 2022.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:


Part-time:

  • Fee for all applicants: £22,050 (£1,050 for each 20 credits)
  • Payment information: Not specified.

Full-time:

  • Fee information: Not available.
  • Payment information: Not available.
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About University
PhD
Masters
Bachelors
Diploma
Foundation
Courses

Teesside University


Overview:

Teesside University is a public university located in Middlesbrough, Tees Valley, England. It is known for its strong focus on student experience, research, and business partnerships. The university has invested heavily in its campus, offering modern facilities and a vibrant learning environment.


Services Offered:

Teesside University provides a wide range of services to its students, including:

    Undergraduate and postgraduate study:

    Offering a diverse selection of programs across various disciplines.

    Short courses and CPD:

    Providing opportunities for professional development and upskilling.

    Online learning:

    Delivering flexible and accessible learning options.

    International student support:

    Providing dedicated services for international students.

    Career services:

    Offering guidance and support for career planning and job searching.

    Student support services:

    Providing academic, personal, and financial support to students.

    Library and IT facilities:

    Offering access to extensive resources and technology.

    Accommodation services:

    Providing on-campus and off-campus accommodation options.

    Sports and recreational facilities:

    Offering a variety of sports and leisure activities.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Teesside University prides itself on its close-knit and supportive community. Students can expect a vibrant campus life with:

    Social events and activities:

    Offering opportunities to connect with fellow students and engage in extracurricular activities.

    Student societies and clubs:

    Providing platforms for students to pursue their interests and develop their skills.

    Campus facilities:

    Including a modern library, sports facilities, and a variety of dining options.

    A welcoming and inclusive environment:

    Fostering a sense of belonging and diversity.

Key Reasons to Study There:

    Affordable excellence:

    Offering a high-quality education at a competitive price.

    Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF):

    Recognized for its outstanding teaching and student experience.

    World-leading research:

    Conducting impactful research across various fields.

    Strong industry partnerships:

    Providing opportunities for students to gain practical experience and develop valuable connections.

    Vibrant and supportive community:

    Offering a welcoming and inclusive environment for students to thrive.

Academic Programs:

Teesside University offers a wide range of academic programs across six schools:

    School of Arts & Creative Industries

    School of Computing, Engineering & Digital Technologies

    School of Health & Life Sciences

    School of Social Sciences, Humanities & Law

    Teesside University International Business School

    University departments


Other:

    Campus Masterplan:

    Teesside University has invested £280 million in its campus to enhance the student experience and support the local community.

    Strong commitment to equality and diversity:

    Recognized as a top employer for its commitment to inclusivity.

    Nationally recognized for its services to business:

    Providing impactful partnerships with local and global organizations.

    Located in a vibrant and affordable region:

    Offering a unique blend of urban and rural experiences.

Total programs
689
Admission Requirements

Entry Requirements:


EU Home Students:

  • Master's degree: Applicants must have a master's degree in a subject related to business or management.
  • 3 years' management experience: All applicants must have a minimum of three years' managerial experience.
  • Research proposal: All applicants are required to complete a short research proposal.
  • English language: Applicants whose first language is not English will need to satisfy English language requirements, which are a minimum overall score of 6.5 IELTS and 5.5 in each band.

International Overseas Students (Outside the EU):

  • Master's degree: Applicants must have a master's degree in a subject related to business or management.
  • 3 years' management experience: All applicants must have a minimum of three years' managerial experience.
  • Research proposal: All applicants are required to complete a short research proposal.
  • English language: Applicants whose first language is not English will need to satisfy English language requirements, which are a minimum overall score of 6.5 IELTS and 5.5 in each band.

Language Proficiency Requirements:

  • Applicants whose first language is not English will need to satisfy English language requirements, which are a minimum overall score of 6.5 IELTS and 5.5 in each band.

Additional Information:

  • All prospective students will be interviewed.
  • Applicants must show they have recent and relevant study or practice in the field of business and/or management.
  • The interview will typically explore:
  • Reason for your application
  • Work experience
  • Previous postgraduate qualifications
  • Research experience
  • Research areas of interest
  • All aspects of the research proposal
  • Anything else deemed appropriate by the tutor connected to the proposed research.

Note:

The information provided above is based on the course information available on the Teesside University website. It is recommended that you contact the university directly for the most up-to-date information on entry requirements.

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