Doctorate of Business Administration

Available to study in London (full time) and Glasgow (distance learning).

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) course is a research-based degree and is the professional equivalent to the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). When you study the DBA at Glasgow Caledonian University, you will be contributing to world-class research which focuses on excellence and quality.

The DBA provides you with an opportunity to bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice, creating a deeper understanding of academic and professional knowledge. It creates critical thinkers and leaders across the public, private and third sectors. You will be able to provide solutions to complex problems via applied research to influence and inform business and policymaking.

Modules will expose you to academic theory and its application to real-life case studies, teaching you how to apply a theoretical framework of analysis to a practical, work-based problem required of a professional doctorate.

You will learn about business ethics, sustainability and governance, gaining academic skills and will select modules in either Strategic Management or Public Policy Analysis depending upon your area of research. Research training is provided to enhance data collection skills and the analysis of information gathered.

Research modules focus on qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques, introducing you to innovative methods. As well as sharpening your critical and analytical skills, you will develop your managerial capabilities and apply that learning in the workplace.

The DBA course is underpinned by the distinctiveness of GSBS as a business school, delivering excellent teaching and research which extends across thematic areas such as: people, management and organisations; finance and risk; social innovation, poverty and public policy; and social and economic justice, all of which align with GCU’s Inclusive Societies research theme.

The course draws upon excellence in research and research centres across GSBS, to deliver work-based education that is research-led and interdisciplinary. You will be supervised by leading academics with expertise in their area of research who will share their knowledge and provide support throughout the DBA journey.

Business and management studies research

Two-thirds of GCU research impact for business and management studies courses was rated as outstanding or very considerable (Research Excellence Framework 2021). Find out more.