EXPERTS IN BUSINESS EDUCATION
Doctorate Program

Executive DBA

Executive DBA
Executive Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Executive DBA

The Executive DBA doctoral program in business administration will challenge you to take your thinking and performance to a new level. You will become a recognized expert and contributor to the most important business and societal challenges by making significant contributions to both theory and practice in the field as you move toward C-suite leadership level.

As far as supervision of thesis research is concerned it is to be noted that the DBA thesis supervisor generally looks at the scientific work being prepared by the student, supervises it, and is committed to ensuring that quality standards of the work are being met. The supervisor is a person with the requisite academic qualification and experience in the chosen field of the thesis research. The supervisor has expert knowledge of the field in which the student is carrying out his/her research. The Supervisor’s task is to guide the DBA student from commencement of the research through the oral presentation and defense of the completed research work (DBA viva).

Total duration for completing the Executive DBA program is two (2) academic years or less which depends on student’s motivation to deliver the thesis.

The DBA program will bring you the opportunity to obtain the highest-level postgraduate qualification in business and management field without interrupting your career.

The Executive DBA offers a rigorous online or blended learning and research plan to the global executives. All DBA students have the possibility to attend campus based seminars that are organized in Geneva.

The program was designed for top executives  with the objective to provide them with a practical grounding in premium business and research education and its applications by offering a flexible and rigorous research-based curriculum.

The DBA doctorate program features a thesis research project that emphasizes applied research to help you solve a real-world problem within your organization. Our distinguished program faculty will accompany you throughout the Executive DBA journey by providing milestones to help you stay on track.

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Contact Info

SSBM Geneva

Geneva Business Center
Avenue des Morgines 12
1213 Genève
Switzerland

+41 (0)22 508 7796
contact@ssbm.ch

Social Info

DBA PORTAL
SSBM DBA portal Get updates from our lecturers, alumni and partners!

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About the program

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program is designed for professionals seeking to elevate their expertise in business management and leadership to the highest level. This rigorous doctoral program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines advanced theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing graduates to address complex challenges in today’s dynamic business environment. Through interdisciplinary learning experiences and cutting-edge research opportunities, students will develop the critical skills and strategic mindset necessary to drive organizational innovation, foster sustainable growth, and make meaningful contributions to the field of business administration.

The DBA program has the following main objectives:
– Mastery of Advanced Business Concepts: Develop a deep understanding of advanced theories, principles, and practices in business administration, enabling the analysis and resolution of complex organizational issues.

– Proficiency in Research Methodologies: Acquire advanced research skills, including quantitative and qualitative methodologies, to conduct rigorous empirical research that contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the field.

– Strategic Leadership Development: Enhance leadership capabilities through the cultivation of strategic thinking, effective communication, and ethical decision-making skills essential for guiding organizations towards sustainable success.

– Global Business Acumen: Explore global perspectives on business operations, including international market dynamics, cross-cultural management, and global supply chain strategies, to navigate the complexities of the global marketplace.

– Contribution to Scholarly Discourse: Produce original scholarly research and contribute to the academic discourse in business administration through publications, presentations, and professional engagements, demonstrating thought leadership and expertise in the field.

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT KEY METRICS

Student achievement key metrics can be found here.

PROGRAM PREREQUISITES

– None

CURRICULUM

The Executive DBA curriculum is composed of several core courses. We organize elective courses in collaboration with our business and industry partners on specific topics relevant to global business and management challenges as well as many events that can be found here.

YEAR 1
Research Methodology I
Research Methodology II
Publishing Your Paper (seminar)
Writing Research Proposal (seminar)
Research Proposal (seminar)

YEAR 2
Software Citation Tools (seminar)
Thesis

MANDATORY COURSES*:
1.Sustainability
2.AI for Managers
3.Strategic Corporate Culture
4.Digital Business Acceleration
5.Corporate Security and Business Intelligence
6.Innovation and Change Management
7.Financial Management
8.Business English
9.Business IT
10.Data Visualization and Storytelling with Data

*The student chooses 4 options from the above list in accordance with their preferences, selecting from the following:
– After completing the course, the student prepares a Final Project/assignment, which is graded, and earns additional ECTS points upon completion

or

– After completing the course, if the student does not prepare a Final Project/assignment, no ECTS points shall be awarded.

 

TEACHING METHOD

This program is delivered entirely online.

You also have the opportunity to increase your learning by attending our webinars.

Our interactive, supportive teaching model is designed for busy professionals and is delivered through our best-in-class learning management system.

MATERIALS

All reading materials for this course will be made accessible to you through the SSBM Online Learning Portal. Notes for each module are often downloadable, and you are able to save your current learning status and continue whenever you like.

STUDY PROGRAM OUTLINE

To access the detailed study program outline, please click on this LINK.

DEGREE

Upon successful completion of the DBA program you will be awarded with a DBA degree delivered by SSBM Geneva.

You have the possibility to select a specialization.

 

FAQ

TOP Frequently Asked Questions by Students

  1. When does the program start, and when is the next intake?
    Our programs are fully online, self-paced, and delivered in a pre-recorded format, so you can apply and start at any time throughout the year.
  2. What payment plans are available, and can I pay in installments?
    We offer flexible payment options, including bank transfers, credit card payments, and Flywire. Additionally, you can pay in installments, with the number of payments tailored to your needs. If further flexibility is required, we can arrange additional installments. The payment schedule is entirely customizable based on your preferences.
  3. How many hours per week do I need to dedicate to complete the program on time?
    As the program is fully online and self-paced, the time commitment depends on your personal schedule. We recommend dedicating approximately 4 hours per week to complete the program within the envisioned timeframe.
  4. What accreditations does the program hold, and will it be internationally recognized?
    SSBM Geneva is accredited by ACBSP and certified by EduQua. We are registered in Geneva, Switzerland, providing superior Swiss education. For details on our accreditation and membership, please visit this link. If you want to check the national recognition in your residing company, we recommend checking the acceptance of the degree with your local NARIC office.
  5. Are there networking and career opportunities for online students?
    Yes, online students can engage in networking through our dedicated online platform “SSBM Connect” and attend weekly webinars hosted by professors and industry professionals. For additional career support, we offer more extensive services, such as company visits and internships, to our on-campus students.
  6. Can I extend the duration of my studies?
    While the program is designed to be completed within a certain time, you can extend it to accommodate your schedule. If you exceed the contractual program duration, extension fees will apply:
    • Up to 3 months: 30% of the full tuition
    • Up to 6 months: 50% of the full tuition
    • Up to 12 months: 100% of the full tuition
  7. What do the exams look like?
    Exams typically include case studies, projects, and open-ended questions. If a student does not pass an exam, they may retake it up to three more times. After the fourth attempt, re-enrollment in the course is required, which will incur additional fees.
  8. Are scholarships or discounts available?
    We offer scholarships and discounts during specific campaigns, which are announced on our website and newsletter. Scholarships generally cover 50% to 100% of tuition fees and are awarded based on academic achievements, motivation, English proficiency, and professional experience. You can also apply for an admissions fee discount by submitting a motivational essay to admissions@ssbm.ch. Our admissions team will review your application based on various factors, such as your academic achievements and career goals.
  9. How can I apply?
    You can apply online through this link. Once your application is submitted, our admissions team will review your documents, including your degree, transcript, CV, ID, and other relevant materials. If you meet the requirements, we will provide you with the next steps, which include signing a student contract, receiving an admission letter, making payments, and accessing our student information system and portal.
  10. Is coming to Geneva required during online studies?
    No, coming to Geneva is not mandatory during your online studies. However, students will be invited to attend the graduation ceremony, which will take place in Geneva. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate your achievements in person, but participation is entirely optional.

Premium Research

Doctoral level in-depth knowledge of latest theories and methodologies in business research

C-level Career

You will learn to apply novel, innovative, and creative solutions to complex business problems leading to C-level career

Flexibility

Executive DBA fits with working professional busy schedule by providing flexible study structure 

Why Executive DBA ?

Why DBA?

Our Executive DBA program will enable you to be able to provide novel, innovative, and creative solutions to complex business problems and opportunities as well as thought leadership for organizational change.

Key benefits

– Researcher education in management studies (theoretical and methodological competence) – Competence to design and implement a sizable research project with a practical orientation – A collegial network with professors and other researchers and the Executive DBA candidates – Competence in presenting papers in international seminars and conferences – Writing and defending an academic doctoral thesis and research papers/articles – Possibility to realize a sizable research/development project for an organization

Variety of possible topics

Any topic can be considered that deals with management, finance, HR or any other related themes such as: • General management • HR topics • Business topics • Supply chain • Finance • etc.

Competitive advantage

Executive DBA program will broaden your professional horizons enabling you to climb further up the corporate ladder.

Flexibility

Executive DBA was designed to fit the demanding lifestyle of executives and professionals

ACBSP accredited

Executive DBA is accredited by ACBSP (Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs) which is recognized by CHEA (Council for Higher Education Accreditation).

Degree

Upon successful completion of the DBA program you will be awarded with a DBA degree delivered by SSBM Geneva.

SSBM DBA STUDENTS

Who Are SSBM DBA Students?
  • DiversityOver 106+ different countries and cultures represented
  • FlexibilityYou can start anytime with possibility to attend campus based seminars
  • EngagementExperienced PhD mentors

AVERAGE AGE

42

years old

INTERNATIONAL

130+

countries

WORK EXPERIENCE

14

years in average

Join a selected and experienced group of classmates, grow together and build a strong network. 

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What our students say?

  • Adina Grecu

    “It is a great experience and I truly appreciate this chance that I have received, to study at SSBM Geneva, one of the top 10 European Business Schools offering online MBAs”.
    Adina Grecu, Head of Digital & Online Marketing , Switzerland

    LinkedIn Profile

     

  • Katarina Lasic

    “I completed the Executive MBA program and it has been quite an experience. I have enjoyed myself and my expectations have been exceeded”.
    Katarina Lasic, Finance Director, Novo Nordisk

    LinkedIn Profile

     

  • Alex E. Asampong

    “SSBM is highly efficient regarding information, assistance and all tools one needs to accomplish study successfully. Undoubtedly, I am very proud of my excellent experience with SSBM”.
    Alex E. Asampong, Lecturer Utrecht University, Netherlands

    LinkedIn Profile

     

  • David Annan

    “It was a great experience and I want to thank entire SSBM for an amazing support during my thesis. I’m also proud to be part of DBA mentors after I finished my DBA journey”.
    David Annan, Author and Lecturer, Kazakhstan

    LinkedIn Profile

     

  • Elisa Simeoni

    “SSBM offers high level education with experienced professors and effective learning. This is a great opportunity to boost my career and invest in quality education”
    Elisa Simeoni, Talent Manager, i-surance, France

    LinkedIn Profile

     

  • Aser Matter

    “The greatest benefit of the program was much more than the “piece of paper”…Thanks to the SSBM for the MBA program, I know that I have all of the tools to be a successful and ethical leader.”
    Aser Mater, Director, Jaz Hotel Group

    LinkedIn Profile

     

  • Apostol Georgiev

    “Studying at SSBM Geneva has been extremely impactful for the way I look at business organizations. There are so many things I’ve learned…”
    Apostol Georgiev, Risk consultant at Wells Fargo

    LinkedIn Profile

     

  • Lisa Tamilia

    “I am very impressed with my experience in the DBA program! It is also a great network and collaboration with a professional network of great students around the globe”
    Business Instructor, USA

    LinkedIn Profile

     

  • Rohini Ghavari

    “I’m very happy with the support of my mentor. It is really amazing and I’m enjoying my journey.”
    Rohini Ghavari, DBA Student, India

    LinkedIn Profile

     

  • Abraham G Melgar

    “All the programs at SSBM have been wonderful and the teachers were extremely helpful. In my specific case, the course that helped me pay for the entire MBA degree and set the foundation for my financial well-being in life is the finance course at SSBM”
    Abraham Melgar, Country Sales Manager, Bolivia

    LinkedIn Profile

     

Executive DBA
Tuition Fees
Admissions
Curriculum

Executive DBA

The objective of the Executive DBA doctorate in business administration is to provide participants with the opportunity to make significant contributions to both theory and practice in the field and to develop professional practice at the highest level. It is a practical and research-based doctoral program in business and industry which is designed for mid-career and senior executives aiming at moving toward C-suite leadership level.

Our mentors are coming from some of the most prestigious universities around the world.

Tuition Fees

Executive DBA: 15.000 EUR*

We offer various scholarship opportunities. We invite you to carefully check which one can apply to you.

* This price includes all online program related costs. Additional costs may apply in some situations.

Admissions

 

– Minimum five years postgraduate work experience prior to DBA study, some of this at a senior level

– MBA (or equivalent qualification) from a recognized higher education institution.

– A Master’s degree in management (or associated discipline) 

– A Master’s degree in a field other than management (or related discipline) but with a minimum of 5 years professional work experience.

– Grade transcripts

– Your CV or resume

– ID or passport copy

– One photo

Applications to the doctoral program will be reviewed by members of the Doctorate Admissions Committee who will make recommendations and decisions (accept/reject) regarding offers of admission to the DBA program. Upon receipt of the documents, a formal interview with the DBA Academic Director may be scheduled with some candidates.

Curriculum

YEAR 1
Research Methodology I
Research Methodology II
Publishing Your Paper (seminar)
Writing Research Proposal (seminar)
Research Proposal (seminar)

YEAR 2
Software Citation Tools (seminar)
Thesis

MANDATORY COURSES*:
1.Sustainability
2.AI for Managers
3.Strategic Corporate Culture
4.Digital Business Acceleration
5.Corporate Security and Business Intelligence
6.Innovation and Change Management
7.Financial Management
8.Business English
9.Business IT
10.Data Visualization and Storytelling with Data

*The student chooses 4 options from the above list in accordance with their preferences, selecting from the following:
– After completing the course, the student prepares a Final Project/assignment, which is graded, and earns additional ECTS points upon completion

or

– After completing the course, if the student does not prepare a Final Project/assignment, no ECTS points shall be awarded.

 

Take a virtual tour and discover SSBM Geneva through this video. Our diversity, faculty and collaborations make us unique and globally successful. 

Experts in Business Education Swiss School of Business and Management Geneva Welcome to SSBM Geneva

Student Testimonials

  • I chose to study at SSBM, because it gives me flexibility to combine online and onsite learning.

    GUSTAV LINDÉUS
  • The thing I like the most is definitely the possibility to organize studying time on my own, as well as the deadlines for all the projects. The whole program is very approachable and easy to follow.

    FRANCIS OKOH
  • SSBM truly offers high quality education. The course material allows you to apply academic theory to real-world examples from the global business world in an easy manner.

    JELENA PENAVA
  • I am quite impressed with the program, most importantly the quality of the education and the professors. It has been wonderful and I would recommend the program. I also gained and increased my productivity as a manager

    INES BORCIC
  • I chose SSBM as an excellent continuation of my education and combining my professional knowledge with theory and practice of the lectures. SSBM allows flexibility with my personal life and professional life as well as achieving my goals.

    EMMANUEL ENUBUOGIDI

Experts in Business Education

We are “Experts in Business Education”. Our core values stand on:

  • Innovation
  • Diversity
  • Connectivity
  • Expertise

We offer Swiss quality through unique Experience, Exchange, Everywhere and Engagement.

SSBM Connect

How about connecting with your peers, alumni, students, professors, industry leaders and companies we work with?

SSBM enables this through our unique and innovative “SSBM Connect” platform where you can engage, interact and socialize with SSBM community!

Alumni

Networking is one of our core strategic directions.

SSBM aims to provide our DBA students with new networking opportunities to connect with peers from same but also different industries as one of SSBM’s main objective is to have diverse student body.

Online Teaching Experience

Do you want to see how our Online Teaching Experience looks like? 

With our unique programs you will strengthen your strategic visionefficiency and leadership to manage today’s organizations.

Still Wondering Why Study at SSBM?

SSBM is a truly innovative and leading business and management school that aims at taking education to a new level!
We aim at providing a superior learning experience that will have a direct impact on your professional development.