collageOVERVIEW
Become a leader in business through ground-breaking research and workplace innovation, with a Doctor of Business Administration from Victoria University.
If you are an experienced business professional wanting to make a difference in the public or private sectors, create value, and prosper in the business environment, VU’s DBA is a clear choice for you.
Our study environment immerses you in the world of competitive business and new technologies, where you can explore exciting developments such as big data and human-machine interaction.
You’ll be part of a vibrant community of professionals, working to solve industry challenges with new ideas and research-grounded initiatives. Our strong industry connections let you network and learn from the brightest minds in government and private organisations.
Take your career to the next level in one of the first degrees in Australia to combine coursework with research doctoral programs in business.
STUDY WHILE YOU WORK
The Victoria Graduate School of Business (VGSB) is located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, with study hours tailored to the working professional.
Our after-hours adjustments put your schedule first and foremost, letting you manage the busy juggle of work and postgraduate research.
LEARN FROM THE BEST
We have strong relationships with the nearby business community – and leverage these relationships to give you highly relevant, practical experience and networking opportunities.
Along with our expert lecturers, industry connections lend us honorary staff who provide valuable links to the financial world. One of these is the finance guru Alan Kohler, founder of Eureka Report, Australia’s most successful investment newsletter, and Business Spectator.
FIRST DBA IN AUSTRALIA
Victoria University was the first university in Australia to offer the DBA, and has done so continuously for 20 years.
The DBA is one of the first doctoral degrees in Australia to combine coursework and research in business, and is continually refreshed in line with global DBA standards.
RELEVANT STUDY EMBEDDED IN CONTEMPORARY BUSINESS
Our DBA is similar to our PhD in Business in that you will emerge with a doctoral qualification. It differs in that it is directly linked to professional practice, with a focus on application in the workplace rather than in academia.
Your study will be informed by a global context that reflects sustainable and ethical practices, contemporary business patterns and recent imperatives such as digital integration.
You’ll begin with four coursework units, which prepare you for your research component, whether or not you have a research background.
You can then undertake research that is relevant to your career progression or your current work environment.
Network with like-minded professionals in the heart of the CBD
RELATED COURSES
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Business Administration (Professional)
- Doctor of Philosophy (Integrated)
- Doctor of Philosophy
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES IN BUSINESS LEADERSHIP
Our Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) teaches you to use research tools to innovate, bring new ideas to the workplace/industry, and beat competitors by standing out with research-grounded initiatives.
This puts you in a strong position to take on exciting new roles:
- senior leadership and executive roles in
- government
- not-for-profits
- corporate
- academic or researcher roles.
Example job titles include:
- chief executive officer
- president
- director
- business professor
- national manager
- managing director.
SALARIES
Compensation at the top level of business is typically generous.
The Australian government site Job Outlook has salaries for Chief Executives and Managing Directors averaging at $134,000 (JobOutlook(external link)).
EMPOWERING CHILDREN TO THRIVE
Doctor of Business Administration student Renato Ulpiano began making a difference in people’s lives as soon as he began his studies.Read more
COURSE STRUCTURE
To attain the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), students will be required to complete 288 credit points (equivalent to 24 units) consisting of:
- 96 credit points (equivalent to 8 units) Coursework units
- 192 credit points (equivalent to 16 units) Research Component
COURSE STRUCTURE AND UNITS
COURSEWORK UNITS (YEAR 1)
- Business Ethics and SustainabilityUnit codeBMO5501Credits12
- Managing Innovation and EntrepreneurshipUnit codeBMO6622Credits12
- Business Research MethodsUnit codeBMO6630Credits12
- Introduction to Research MethodologyUnit codeUGR7001Credits12
- Research Design and Proposal DevelopmentUnit codeUGR7002Credits12
- Research Integrity and EthicsUnit codeUGR7003Credits12
- Enhancing Researcher Knowledge and SkillsUnit codeUGR7006Credits12
- Enhancing Research CapabilityUnit codeUGR7007Credits12
RESEARCH COMPONENT (YEAR 2-YEAR 3)
- Thesis (DBA) (Full-Time)Unit codeBBA8904Credits48
or
- Thesis (DBA) (Part-Time)Unit codeBBA8905Credits24
LEARNING OUTCOMES
On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
| 1. | Contextualise and apply relevant theoretical knowledge to undertake rigorous research at the doctoral level into contemporary business problems, and contribute to original knowledge, theory and practice in business. | ||
| 2. | Critically review a range of quantitative and qualitative business-oriented methods to determine and adapt appropriate methods for data collection and analysis to emerging intercultural and interdisciplinary business problems. | ||
| 3. | Critique contemporary organisational or professional practice in the light of relevant theory, demonstrating their capacity as a reflective practitioner, scholar, leader and life-long learner. | ||
| 4. | Critically evaluate business research studies in order to assess their quality and applicability in improving effective handling of business problems. | ||
| 5. | Demonstrate exemplary oral and written communication skills relevant to translating complex research findings into business practice. | ||
| 6. | Identify, analyse and evaluate internal and external environmental influences on organisations in order to adapt and develop effective plans for the management of change and development, demonstrating social inclusivity, responsibility and authoritative and ethical judgement. | ||
| 7. | Generalise and apply creative and innovative ideas or solutions within contemporary global business environment. |
WHAT’S A UNIT?
A unit or ‘subject’ is the actual class you’ll attend in the process of completing a course.
Most courses have a mixture of compulsory ‘core’ units that you need to take and optional elective units that you can choose to take based on your area of interest, expertise or experience.
CREDITS
Each unit is worth a set amount of study credits based on the amount of time you study. Generally, 1 credit is equal to 1 hour of study per week.
ADMISSION & PATHWAYS
Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee you entry into this course. Some courses receive more applications than the number of places available. In this situation we will also assess your education, work and other relevant experience.
If you do not meet the minimum requirements you may be eligible for one of our special admission programs. We also encourage you to explore our study pathways to help you reach your goal.
Find out more about how to apply for our courses, and our commitment to admissions transparency.
PATHWAYS FROM VU COURSES
There are many ways you can start your education journey at VU. Pathways offer an easy transition between courses at different levels, so that you can start with a certificate and progress right through to postgraduate study.
Find out more about pathways and credits.
CREDIT FOR SKILLS AND PAST STUDY
If you have completed study with another university or institution and believe you are eligible to receive credit for skills and past study, you can apply for advanced standing.
Applications for advanced standing can be made after a discussion with your course coordinator or academic adviser.
HOW TO APPLY
You will need to follow the six steps to becoming a research student.
Contact the Office for Researcher Training, Quality & Integrity on +61 3 9919 4522 or email apply.research@vu.edu.au if you require further information.
Key information
Study mode
- Online
Campus locations
- No on-campus study
Duration
- Minimum Period of CandidatureA candidate for a Doctor of Philosophy or Research Professional Doctorate shall not be permitted to submit a thesis for examination within three years (full-time equivalent) of the date of commencement of candidature.A candidate for a Doctor of Philosophy or Research Professional Doctorate who has commenced their candidature at another University shall not be permitted to submit their thesis for examination within the first twelve months (full-time equivalent) of candidature at Charles Sturt University or prior to completion of a total of three years candidature across both institutions (full-time equivalent).A candidate for the Doctor of Philosophy by Prior Publication shall not be permitted to submit a thesis for examination within six months (full-time equivalent) of the date of commencement of candidature.A candidate for a Master by Research degree shall not be permitted to submit a thesis for examination within one year (full-time equivalent) of the date of commencement of candidature.Maximum Period of CandidatureA candidate for a Doctor of Philosophy or Research Professional Doctorate will be required to submit a thesis for examination within four years (full-time equivalent) of the date of commencement of candidature.A candidate for the Doctor of Philosophy by Prior Publication will be required to submit a thesis for examination within one year (full-time equivalent) of the date of commencement of candidature.A candidate for a Masters of Research will be required to submit a thesis for examination within two years (full-time equivalent) of the date of commencement of candidature.In exceptional circumstances, variations to minimum and maximum periods of candidature requirements may be approved by the Director, Research.Higher Degree by Research Policy: Enrolment and ProgressMinimum/Maximum Period of Candidature is the effective period of time taken to complete a course when studied full-time (full-time equivalent duration).
Admission information
- See Entry Requirements
See standard Charles Sturt University admission criteria
Session availability
- Session 1 2020 (Mar – Jun) – Closed
- Session 2 2020 (Jul – Oct)
Please note: all sessions may not be available at all locations or through all study modes. Please check the Fees and course offerings section for more information.
International students
Study mode
- Online
Course highlights
The Doctor of Business Administration gives you the opportunity to make a significant contribution to business/professional practice by conducting innovative research.
- Advanced research skillsBeginning with a series of coursework subjects to build your research capability, you’ll go on to develop an original research project and produce a thesis. Research areas on offer include management, marketing, organisational psychology, HR management, business strategy, accounting, finance, entrepreneurship and innovation, information management, economics and regional studies.
- Industry relevanceMaintaining a strong industry focus, you will identify, analyse and propose solutions to a real-world problem confronting business. You are expected to be employed or have access to a business or public sector organisation to complete the practical components of your degree, such as data collection.
- Leaders in researchYou’ll join a vibrant research community and complete your doctorate under the supervision of renowned discipline experts. As a doctoral candidate, you’ll have access to a range of valuable learning experiences, such as regular research seminars, professional development workshops and a doctoral research symposium.
Career opportunities
Completing the Doctor of Business Administration demonstrates that you have advanced research skills and the capacity to reflect on and solve contemporary business challenges. As a graduate, you could work in management or research in private or public sector organisations in roles such as business analyst, research analyst, manager of research operations or research consultant. With advanced discipline and professional knowledge, you’ll have a strong case for promotion to senior managerial roles.
Credit and pathways
No special arrangements apply
Check your eligibility for credit
Fees and course offerings
Calculate my fee
The section below is designed to allow you to select the option specific to your circumstances to discover the course fee and course offering information appropriate for you.My Student Type (step 1 of 4)My Student TypeAustralian or New Zealand StudentInternational Studentinfo
Standard Charles Sturt University fee details
Any fees and offerings are correct at the date of publishing. Fees are relevant for the year selected only and are subject to change in future years.
If you are an Australian citizen, a New Zealand citizen or the holder of a permanent visa open_in_new find out more about Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) and Fee Paying places.
Depending on citizenship and residency requirements, you may also be eligible to defer CSP and Fee Paying fees through the HELP open_in_new government student loan system.
If you are an international student, find out more about international fees and don’t forget to apply for our scholarships, including our new Charles Sturt Regional Scholarship 2020
Additional course-related expenses you may need to consider:
- Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF)
- Textbooks (you may be able to purchase these second-hand)
- Travel and accommodation expenses for any workplace learning, field trips or residential schools
- Uniforms (e.g. shirts, polo tops, scrubs or overalls)
Subjects
For each 8 point subject you are enrolled in, you should expect to spend 10 to 12 hours per week working on assignments and assigned readings, tutorial assistance, individual or group research/study, forum activity, workplace learning, and attending lectures, residential schools, or examinations.
If you are studying four subjects per session, this is equivalent to a full-time job. The workload for some subjects may vary as a result of approved course design.
Graduation requirements
As a Charles Sturt University student, throughout your course you have a responsibility to continue to develop skills in English language, literacy and numeracy as appropriate to your discipline. This ongoing development will enable you to effectively participate in your course and graduate prepared to enter the workforce.
To graduate students must satisfactorily complete 192 points.
Support
As an HDR candidate, we recognise you’ll need specialised support to help you achieve your research goals. Our dedicated Research Office is your central point of contact for researchers and supervisors. Charles Sturt University also has a number of Research Support Services designed to support researchers, supervisors and HDR candidates across their research endeavours and careers. Academic and personal support is available including Indigenous services, international support, counselling, disability services, equity and diversity, health information, spiritual support, mentoring, child care support, professional development and more.
International students
Gain an internationally recognised qualification with Charles Sturt University at one of our vibrant regional campuses, or study online from the comfort of your own home – anywhere in the world!
Browse through the tabs below for more information or visit our International website to discover more about an Australian university experience like no other.
Please note: if you choose to study online with Charles Sturt University, the course study mode will not meet necessary requirements for granting Australian student visas.
There are minimum Academic and English Language requirements for admission to Charles Sturt University courses. These requirements ensure that our students have the best chance for success. Minimum requirements can vary from country to country, so please take some time to review our entry requirements before starting your application. If you cannot find the requirements for your country please contact us.
Please note: in line with our admissions policy, if you intend to study in Australia on a student visa you must be at least 18 years old by the course start date.
How to apply
Applying to Charles Sturt University is easy. Choose how you want to apply below, or get in touch with Charles Sturt University and we can help you with your application.
See full list of important dates
Apply anytime
Applications for our research degrees can be lodged at any time. Before applying, you should make contact with the appropriate Sub-Dean of Graduate Studies.
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