Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

ABOUT PROGRAMME

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programme is aimed to equip senior professionals, executives, and leaders with advanced research skills, strategic insights and practical tools to address complex business challenges in an increasingly dynamic global environment. The programme blends academic rigor with practical application, enabling participants to:

  1. Conduct advanced research in the area of professional practice that bridges the gap between theory and practice, addressing real-world business problems.
  2. Develop innovative and strategic solutions that contribute to organisational performance and growth.
  3. Enhance leadership capabilities to drive transformation and change in their industries.
  4. Contribute to the development of business knowledge through high-impact research that informs both academia and industry.
  5. Excel in senior leadership roles by fostering a deep understanding of global business trends and challenges.

The DBA programme aims to not only advance the careers of its participants but also contribute to the broader business community and economic development, particularly in alignment with Brunei's Vision 2035 for economic diversification and a knowledge-based economy.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

  • Level of Programme: Doctoral Degree
  • Type of Programme: Coursework
  • Duration of Study: 3 years/ 6 semesters
  • Mode of Study: Full-Time
  • Innovative Marketing Strategies
  • Strategic Decision Making in Accounting and Finance
  • Advanced Business Research Methods
  • Economic Policy and Business Strategy
  • Leadership and people Management
  • Applied Research Methods I
  • Industry, Residential, and Business Innovation
  • Advanced Decision Science and Data Analytics
  • Applied Research Methods II
  • Consulting for Change and Business Growth
  • Sustainable Business Project
  • Global Entrepreneurship and Innovation
  • Dissertation

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Applicants for the programme should possess:

  • A relevant Master’s degree recognised by the Senate of UTB with at least 5 years of professional work experience in a senior managerial or leadership role.

OR

  • A relevant Bachelor’s degree recognised by the Senate of UTB with at least 10 years of professional work experience in a senior managerial or leadership role.

AND

  • At least a Credit Six (C6) in English Language at GCE Ordinary Level Examination/IGCSE Grade C or a valid IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL (PBT) minimum overall score 550 or its equivalent. The English language requirements may be waived if the applicant's prior higher education studies were conducted in English. Where candidates completed their higher education more than 2 years prior to their current application, they will need to show that they have continued to study or work in the medium of English Language.

Evidence of potential for doctoral-level research including:

  • Research Proposal: A preliminary research proposal (1,000–2,000 words) that outlines the applicant’s intended area of research. This should include:
    • A clear research question or problem statement.
    • Proposed methodology and objectives.
    • Relevance of the research to current business challenges and its potential contributions to the field.
  • Interview: Shortlisted applicants will be required to attend an interview (in person or online) to discuss their research proposal and eligibility for the programme.
  • Portfolio: Applicants should demonstrate evidence of significant managerial or professional achievement at an executive or senior management level.
  • Commitment to Research: Applicants should demonstrate their ability to undertake independent, high-level research, including examples of previous research work, publications, or contributions to industry white papers (where applicable).
  • Professional Qualifications: While not mandatory, applicants with professional certifications (e.g., CPA, CFA and PMP) or those holding leadership positions in industry-specific institutions have an advantage.

and

  • Personal Statement: A personal statement is required, outlining the applicant’s professional experience, motivation for pursuing the DBA, and how the programme aligns with their career goals.
  • References: Two professional or academic references are required; attesting to the applicant’s qualifications, leadership capabilities, and potential for success in the DBA programme.

FEE STRUCTURE

The total fee* for DBA is as follows:

  • Local: BND 30,000
  • International: BND 35,000

*Other fees and charges may apply: https://www.utb.edu.bn/admissions/future-students/university-fees/general-fees/

APPLY HERE

Submit your application through Apply@UTB: https://apply.utb.edu.bn/