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Curtin University

  • 28% international / 72% domestic

Doctor of Business Administration

  • Doctorate (PhD)

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) at Curtin University develops critical thinking and practical management skills, focusing on applied research to solve real-world business challenges. The program includes a Graduate Certificate in Business Research followed by a thesis unit, emphasizing industry-driven research and innovation.

Key details

Degree Type
Doctorate (PhD)
Duration
2 - 4 years full-time, 2 - 6 years part-time
Course Code
DR-BUSADM, 023971C
Study Mode
In person
Intake Months
Jan, Jul
International Fees
$38,325 per year / $114,975 total

About this course

Overview

Our Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) develops highly skilled, critical thinking and practical managers who can read, carry out and apply the results of a research initiative. The DBA will enable you to concentrate on practical situations as well as the sensitive aspects which are inescapable in the conduct of business.

You'll start by studying a Graduate Certificate in Business Research (6 months full-time or up to 2 years part-time), which will give you the skills and knowledge you need to confidently progess your thesis. Once you complete your graduate certificate, you'll then enrol in your thesis unit (3 years full-time or 6 years part-time). Please note that you must achieve a course-weighted average of 70% in your graduate certificate to enrol in your thesis unit.

Why research at Curtin

Curtin is widely recognised for applied research firmly focused on solving real-world problems. Underpinning our research endeavours are strong partnerships with industry, business and government, which result in outcomes that greatly benefit the broader community locally, nationally and globally. Our international reputation for being a strong partner in industry-driven research ensures our graduates enjoy outstanding opportunities to become innovators in their fields.

What you'll learn
  • apply discipline specific theories, concepts, models, frameworks and/ or principles to address contemporary business challenges
  • critique business practices in the light of relevant theories, concepts, models, frameworks and/ or principles
  • apply appropriate research methodologies to help solve contemporary business and/ or industry problems.
  • select appropriate technologies and recognise their advantages and limitations in undertaking research, data collection and analysis
  • design, implement, analyse, theorise and communicate research that makes a significant and original contribution to professional practice by helping to solve contemporary business challenges
  • demonstrate the capacity to have superior oral and written communications skills relevant to both business, industry and a range of stakeholder audiences
  • recognise internal and external influences on business and recommend decisions that demonstrate social inclusivity and responsible ethical judgements

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

What you need in order to get into this course. There are different pathway options depending on your level of work and education experience.

Five years' professional business or management experience plus a 70 per cent course-weighted average from a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or equivalent master degree.

Australian citizens and permanent residents will be required to complete the Graduate Certificate in Business Research which comprises four doctoral level units. The completion of the Graduate Certificate in Business Research with a 70 per cent course-weighted average may enable articulation into this degree.

For visa requirements, international applicants will be allowed direct entry but will be required to maintain a 70 per cent course-weighted average in the first semester to continue the course.

Before applying you should obtain authorisation from an appropriate research supervisor. You will need to submit a written statement and references with your application and attend an interview.

Applicants are required to demonstrate a capacity to carry out independent research and have adequate training and ability to pursue the proposed research course.

English requirements

Curtin requires all applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English. Specific English requirements for this course are outlined in the IELTS table below.

IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System)

  • Writing: 6.5
  • Speaking: 6.5
  • Reading: 6.5
  • Listening: 6.5
  • Overall band score: 6.5

Other requirements and notes for this course

If you do not have prior studies in research methods and statistical data analysis, you will be required to complete relevant preparatory units. These units may increase the course duration.

What you will learn

What you'll learn

  • apply discipline specific theories, concepts, models, frameworks and/ or principles to address contemporary business challenges
  • critique business practices in the light of relevant theories, concepts, models, frameworks and/ or principles
  • apply appropriate research methodologies to help solve contemporary business and/ or industry problems.
  • select appropriate technologies and recognise their advantages and limitations in undertaking research, data collection and analysis
  • design, implement, analyse, theorise and communicate research that makes a significant and original contribution to professional practice by helping to solve contemporary business challenges
  • demonstrate the capacity to have superior oral and written communications skills relevant to both business, industry and a range of stakeholder audiences
  • recognise internal and external influences on business and recommend decisions that demonstrate social inclusivity and responsible ethical judgements

Credit for prior study or work

Credit for recognised learning (CRL)

How to apply

Please review information on how to apply for the campus of your choice