Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Course Details

• Full Time
• Part Time

Duration

3 years

Intake Date

25 August 2025

15 December 2025

Awarding Body

APU, Malaysia

Duration

4 years

Intake Date

13 June 2025

15 August 2025

31 October 2025

Awarding Body

APU, Malaysia

About APU

Malaysia’s Premier Digital Tech University

5-Star Excellence Rating (SETARA)

100% Employability Rate

Ranked No.16 for International Students in the World

More than 80,000 Graduates & Alumni

Admission Requirements

Minimum Entry Requirement

All Students

• Master’s degree in related fields, or its equivalent qualification as accepted by the Senate.
• Master’s degree in non-related fields as accepted by the Senate and with relevant working experience, subject to a rigorous internal assessment.
• Master’s degree in non-related fields as accepted by the Senate and without relevant working experience, subject to passing pre-requisite courses.

Minimum English Requirements

International Students

• IELTS : 6.0

Programme Outline

This programme is designed for executives, professionals and leaders to prepare them for digital transformation, by:

• Applying innovation and technology in problem-solving-guided by Design Thinking ideals.
• Employing real-world coaching and providing an entrepreneurial outlook via our in-class and value-added activities.
• Participating in thought leadership sessions delivered by our academic staff and Industry partners.
• Learning and collaborating in a highly dynamic and interactive world-class environment.
• Future-proofing themselves and enabling them to lead digital transformation in organisations.

The Benefits of The Programme

• The APU DBA prepares you to address the challenges within an increasingly Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous (VUCA) digitalised world.
• The knowledge and experience gained via APU’s DBA will allow you to sharpen your skills and competencies in decision making, strategic thinking, and problem solving - be it for work or personal aspirations.
• The programme is also designed to enhance your research skills which can be applied to strategic formulation, policy formation and organisational risk assessment and mitigation plans.
• The APU DBA programme has a unique digital emphasis and is a technology-infused leadership programme that focuses on future-proofing leaders in a highly volatile and uncertain future.
• The Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA) has endorsed APU DBA to enhance and progress existing business knowledge, gaining perspective of contemporary business issues, future trends, and complex problems that require analytical skills to solve.
• Under a strategic collaboration with the Chartered Management Institute, UK, you have the exciting opportunity of enrolling for the exclusive APU-CMI Dual Certification By adding a separate CMI qualification to your APU qualification, you are really on the road to success to be truly recognised globally as a Professional Manager.

Modules & Dissertation

The emphasis of the DBA programme is on collaboration, interpersonal relationship building and applied experiential learning. Students are required to complete 10 taught modules on the DBA which are delivered in a combination of online and face-to-face blended learning modes depending on the module.

Pre-Requisite Modules (for non-business students)

• Managing People
• Understanding Customers
• Managerial Finance
• Business Environment & Strategic Planning

Modules

• Strategic Management for Integrated Value Creation
• Accounting and FinTech in Digital Transformation
• Advanced Marketing Intelligence and Research
• Research Methodology
• Leadership and Organisational Science
• Digital Thinking and Innovation Management
• Data Science and Business Analytics
• Quantitative Research OR Qualitative Research
• Digital Business Transformation Global Economic and Business Issues
• Dissertation

Instructional Design and Delivery

Learning is supported by materials, tasks, and activities provided through the Institution’s Learning Management System. The fundamental delivery mode of the programme encompasses the following:

• Face to Face Learning
• Guided Online Learning
• Self-Managed Learning
• Group Discussion and Presentations
• Case Studies Analysis
• Seminar Discussion with Guest Speakers

Unique Features of APU Doctor of Business Administration

The APU DBA programme has a unique digital emphasis and is a technology-infused leadership programme that focuses on future-proofing leaders in a highly volatile and uncertain future. The content of each module is carefully designed through collaboration with business and covers the following topics:

• FinTech - developed through professional engagement with MyFin.
• Economics - teaching & research content infused through consultation with professionals from the Economic & Social Research Council, UK (UKRI).
• Digital Thinking - inclusion of professional talks/seminars/guest lectures by Startup Malaysia and other organisations, powered by Design Thinking principles.
• Leadership - collaborative case studies from the Engineering Council UK (ECUK) via the Education & Skills Strategy Board of IMechE-UK.
• Data Science - supported by software tools powered by SAS Institute Inc (USA).
• Digital Business Transformation - content related to business with Analytics and Artificial Intelligence platforms driven by TIBCO, USA.
• Marketing - research content in consultation with Marketing Research Society of Malaysia (MRSM).

CMI Dual Accreditation

You have the exciting opportunity of enrolling for the APU-CMI Dual Certification by registering for a qualification through APU. By adding a CMI qualification to your University qualification you are really on the road to success.

• Dual qualifications - When you complete your studies you will have both your University qualification AND a CMI qualification.
• Theory into practice - CMI qualifications are highly regarded by employers as a testament that you can demonstrate the practical skills needed to perform in the workplace.
• International stamp of approval - CMI qualifications are linked to the QCF and European Qualification Framework, so you can be assured that the qualification you are taking is of the highest standard.

CMI is the Chartered Management Institute, dedicated to increasing the number of professionally qualified managers and leaders. CMI works with education providers to inspire students to unleash their potential and become skilled, confident and successful managers and leaders identified by their Chartered status.

Facilities

The APU Centre Point & Atrium serves as a melting pot of cultures from all over the world. Here, cultural activities are organised regularly at the campus, fostering long-lasting intercultural relationships among APU students, who come from over 130 countries.

Career Path

Management Analyst

Business Consultant

Business Research Analyst

Market Research Analyst

Entrepreneur

Economist

Professor

Chief Marketing Officer (CM0)

General Manager

Analytics & Reporting Manager

Decision Analytics Manager

Management Consultant

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

International Marketing Manager

Fees & Certification

Malaysian

• RM54,800

Total for Malaysian

International

• RM54,800 (USD12,745)

Total for International

MQA Cert

Programme code : (N/0414/8/0071)(04/28)(MQA/PA14557)

* Fees stated here do not include Deposits and other Miscellaneous Fees. Please refer to Fee Guide for details.

Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU)

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Overview:

Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU) is a private university located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It is known for its diverse student body, with over half of its students coming from over 130 countries. APU focuses on technology-driven education, aiming to nurture innovation and produce graduates who can adapt and think differently.

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Services Offered:

APU offers a range of services to its students, including:

Visa Processing:

APU assists international students with their visa applications, including pre-arrival processing fees, airport assistance, and accommodation upon arrival.

Student Welcome Team:

A dedicated team welcomes and assists new students during their first few days in Malaysia and at APU.

Orientation Briefings:

Comprehensive orientation programs are provided to help students settle into the university environment, covering academic regulations, facilities, and other essential information.

Student Life Activities:

APU encourages student involvement through clubs, societies, and leadership opportunities like the Students' Representative Council and Student Ambassador program.

Part-time Working Opportunities:

On-campus part-time jobs are available for students, including library assistant, IT labs technical assistant, programmer, multimedia developer, and Student Ambassador roles.

Professional and Personal Development Workshops:

Free workshops are offered to equip students with the skills and attributes needed for successful careers.

Health Insurance:

Compulsory health insurance is provided to all international students through EMGS's insurance panel partners.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

APU fosters a vibrant and unique student life with over 60 clubs and societies. Students are encouraged to participate in social, sporting, and cultural activities on campus, building lifelong friendships and exploring new experiences.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Cosmopolitan Learning Environment:

APU's diverse student community from over 130 nations provides a truly international learning experience.

Technology-Focused Education:

APU's programs emphasize technology and innovation, preparing students for the demands of the digital age.

Affordable Living Costs:

Malaysia offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other countries, making it an attractive destination for international students.

Career-Oriented Approach:

APU focuses on developing students' professional skills and attributes, equipping them for successful careers.

Strong International Recognition:

APU's engineering degrees are internationally recognized, providing graduates with global career opportunities.

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Academic Programs:

APU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Pre-University Studies:

Foundation programs, diploma programs, and certificate programs.

Undergraduate Studies:

Bachelor's degrees in Computing, Technology & Games Development, Design, Advertising, Animation & VFX, Business, Management, Marketing & Tourism, Accounting, Banking, Finance & Actuarial, Engineering, Media, International Relations & Psychology.

Postgraduate Studies:

Master's degrees and Doctor of Philosophy programs in various fields.

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Other: