Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

• Standard Route: Bachelor’s degree + Master’s degree/Level 7 postgraduate qualification/MBA or professional qualification (ACCA, CIMA, CFA, CPA) + three years' professional experience in a mid-level management position or higher. 
• Mature Route: Applicants who do not meet the standard entry requirements may apply via our Mature Route, which falls under our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Policy. You will be asked to provide evidence of five years’ managerial work experience (middle or senior level), plus transcripts of your highest qualifications achieved to date. Applications via this route are assessed on a case-by-case basis. To find out more about the Recognition of Prior Learning Policy (RPL), Click Here.
  

• Identification (passport or ID card)
• Proof of higher education: official diploma/certificate(s)
• Official copy of transcripts/grade reports
• Evidence of proficiency in English (see Language requirements for more information)
• Mature Route only: Evidence of five years’ managerial work experience (CV and professional references) 

• IELTS 6.0 or equivalent; or
• Postgraduate degree in English; or 
• Bachelor’s completed in English; or 
• Three years of work experience in an English-speaking environment supported by a reference letter (subject to approval by LSBF Admissions Board). Acceptance of these applicants may be subject to successful completion of an English language interview with LSBF’s Academic Team. 

We understand that traditional academic qualifications do not always reflect an individual's capabilities or potential. As such, applicants who do not meet our standard academic criteria may still be considered for admission through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) pathway. 

Eligibility Criteria: 

• Applicants must demonstrate relevant post-secondary level education, such as a Bachelor’s degree (at minimum) + non Level 7 academic or professional qualification (certificate or diploma). 

• Applicants should provide evidence of five years' work experience at a managerial level, related to the field of study. 

Application Process: 

• Submit an RPL application along with documented evidence of your educational background and work experience. 

• Each application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the LSBF Academic Admissions Board. 

Consideration Factors: 

• Relevance and duration of work experience. 

• Academic achievements and any professional development undertaken. 

• Ability to contribute to and benefit from the programme based on your experiences. 

We encourage all potential applicants to apply, as each application is thoroughly reviewed to assess the compatibility of their experiences with the intended programme of study. To find out more about the Recognition of Prior Learning Policy (RPL) Click Here. 

A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree is a doctoral-level qualification focused on applied research, business practice and real-world leadership challenges. DBA degrees are designed for professionals working in specialised fields who want to deepen their expertise, solve complex business problems within their organisations, and potentially transition into more strategic or leadership roles. 

A DBA and a PhD are both doctoral-level qualifications, but they serve different goals. A PhD is usually more theory-led and suited to academic or research careers. While it also involves research, a DBA is more practice-based and is focused on using that research to solve real business problems. At London School of Business and Finance, the LSBF online DBA is designed for experienced professionals who want to apply advanced research to address complex issues in business and management. 

Here are some of the top benefits of studying a DBA: 

• Develop advanced strategic leadership and evidence-based decision-making skills 
• Learn to apply research to develop practical, research informed solutions to real-world business challenges  
• Apply new knowledge directly to your organisation, helping to improve practice and drive change
• Build in-depth expertise in a specialist business area 
• Prepare for senior leadership, consulting, teaching or advisory roles  

Yes, you can study a DBA while working full time if you choose a provider that offers flexibility or a DBA degree online. LSBF's flexible online DBA, for example, is designed for experienced professionals who want to apply research to real business challenges without pausing their career. 

The time it takes to complete a DBA can vary depending on the provider, study mode (in person, online or hybrid) and how much time you have available to study around professional and personal commitments. If you’re looking to complete your DBA without taking time out of your career, studying online for your DBA may be a good fit. At London School of Business and Finance, we offer the LSBF DBA online, with options for 36 months full-time or 56 months part-time, as long as you complete it a maximum of 60 months from registration. 

DBA applicants commonly hold a relevant master’s degree, such as an MBA or MSc, alongside several years of management, leadership or specialist professional experience. Depending on the provider they select, applicants with significant relevant professional experience but without previous postgraduate qualifications may still be eligible. LSBF, for example, offers a Mature Route where applicants to the DBA programme who are able to provide evidence of five years’ managerial work experience at a middle or senior level, plus transcripts of their highest qualification to date, are assessed on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the LSBF Academic Admissions Board.  

When you study for a DBA degree online, significant emphasis is placed on applying theory and research in your own workplace. Students produce a substantial thesis where they investigate a business challenge relevant to them, and through collecting and evaluating evidence, then formulating a robust approach to the research, produce and communicate recommendations for practice. At LSBF, students also benefit from exceptional support and guidance from our expert faculty, all of whom have real business experience.  

At London School of Business and Finance, we prioritise flexibility, so working professionals can study more efficiently, effectively and enjoyably. Our DBA degree marries this approach with an emphasis on applied learning.  

Benefits of enrolling on the online DBA in Business Administration include: 

• Studying 100% online with live and recorded lectures and 24/7 access to quality study materials via our Canvas platform. 

• The option to choose between full-time and part-time study. 

• Becoming a member of a global student cohort – grow your professional community while you study, before joining our 40,000-strong alumni network spanning over 170 countries.  

• Expert tutors and faculty with extensive professional experience in the world of business. 

Yes. The DBA online programme at LSBF is open to international students worldwide, provided you meet the entry requirements. This means that you can study for your Doctor of Business Administration with a reputable, UK-based business school, without the need for relocation or a student visa. 

Yes. At LSBF, we offer easy, interest-free, flexible student payment plans to help spread the cost of your studies while completing your DBA degree online. Options vary by programme. Students may also be eligible for country-based scholarships or current promotional offers. Please contact a student advisor to find out more. 

Yes! LSBF holds an annual graduation ceremony with associated networking events every September or October in London, UK, which is open to all graduates of that academic year. Students who are unable to attend in person will be able to live-stream the event and view the recording on YouTube. All students will receive their certificates in the post. Graduates are also able to join our Alumni network.