University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)
Advance your professional journey by pursuing the highest academic qualification in business and management the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) offered by the University of Central Lancashire. This part-time programme is specifically designed for senior managers, consultants, and experienced professionals who wish to study at a doctoral level while continuing their careers.
The DBA is equivalent in status to a PhD and confers the title of ‘Doctor’ upon successful completion. The course offers a unique blend of academic rigour and practical application, equipping you with advanced research skills to critically evaluate real-world business challenges.
The DBA is divided into two key stages:
Delivered on a part-time basis, Stage 1 consists of six core modules, each taught through a four-day intensive workshop, followed by guided reading and independent study.
· The Reflexive Practitioner
Enhances reflective thinking and self-evaluation skills to develop as a critical, reflexive practitioner.
· Management, Rhetoric, Policy and Practice
Explores the theory and practice of management, critically assessing its impact on organisations and wider society.
· Research Methodologies and Design
Provides a theoretical foundation in research methodologies, examining the philosophical principles underpinning social science research.
· Qualitative Research Methods
Introduces the principles and practice of qualitative research, enabling students to determine its value in business research contexts.
· Quantitative Research Methods
Develops practical skills in handling and analysing quantitative data, including survey and questionnaire design.
· Independent Literature Review (Accordion Title)
Encourages critical engagement with specific strands of management literature and culminates in the production of a high-quality literature review.
The research component involves designing and conducting an in-depth investigation into a live business or management issue. Supported by a supervisory team, including a Director of Studies, you will produce a doctoral thesis that contributes to both academic theory and professional practice.
Stage 2 typically takes two years to complete on a part-time basis, though students may take up to five years depending on their personal pace.
The DBA is delivered in a block-teaching format at UCLan’s Preston Campus. All students have full access to university resources, including libraries, research databases, and social and cultural facilities. Action learning and peer collaboration are integral to the programme, fostering both academic and professional growth.
This programme is suitable for professionals who:
· Possess a relevant Master’s degree
· Have substantial experience in business, management, or consultancy
· Are looking to deepen their research capabilities and enhance their strategic leadership skills
For the most accurate and current information regarding tuition fees, please contact the University of Central Lancashire Admissions Team directly.
