Doctorate in Business Administration

The Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) at the American Institute of Applied Sciences in Switzerland represents the pinnacle of professional business education, designed for those who seek to advance their careers through rigorous research and applied scholarship. This prestigious program bridges the gap between academic theory and practical application, empowering you to become a thought leader capable of driving organizational transformation and contributing original knowledge to the field of business administration.

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Unlike traditional PhDs, our DBA program is specifically tailored for professionals who wish to deepen their expertise while maintaining relevance to real-world business challenges. Through a combination of advanced coursework, research seminars, and an original dissertation, you'll develop the analytical frameworks and research capabilities needed to solve complex business problems and shape the future of management practice.

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For business professionals
Our DBA program is designed for professionals who have acquired an MBA or a Master's in a Business discipline and aspire to broaden their profile of capabilities rather than just incrementally deepen their knowledge base as business practitioners.

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Research-driven excellence
Develop advanced research competencies through comprehensive training in both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, enabling you to conduct quality and practical research that addresses real-world business challenges and contributes new insights to your field.

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Academic and professional advancement
Whether you're pursuing a career in academia or a predominantly research function with a government, education, or research-based agency, the DBA from AUS positions you as an authority in your specialized area.

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Personalized dissertation support
You'll be matched with an expert faculty supervisor who will guide you through every stage of your dissertation journey—from proposal development and methodology design to data analysis, findings interpretation, and final defense.

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Rigorous standards
Your degree will be conferred only after successful completion of taught courses, research seminars, and dissertation defense, including a viva voce examination and external assessment by subject matter experts.

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The DBA from the American Institute of Applied Sciences in Switzerland opens doors to career opportunities across multiple sectors, particularly for those desirous of:

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- Academia: Faculty positions, research directors at business schools
- Research Functions: Government agencies, education institutions, research-based agencies
- Executive Consulting: Strategy consultants, thought leaders, advisory board members
- Corporate Leadership: Research and development roles, strategic planning positions
- Specialized Consulting: Research-based consulting firms
- International Organizations: Global agencies requiring research expertise

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DBA graduates are positioned to influence organizational strategy, policy development, and management theory at the highest levels.

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Core Courses (45 CH | 60 ECTS)
Our comprehensive curriculum is structured around three integrated pillars:

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Research Excellence (21 CH | 28 ECTS)
Master advanced research methodologies through seven specialized courses covering qualitative and quantitative methods, literature review techniques, data analysis, and academic writing standards. You'll develop the technical expertise required for doctoral-level investigation.

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Advanced Management Theory (24 CH | 32 ECTS)
Engage with cutting-edge management concepts including global intercultural leadership, corporate strategy execution, entrepreneurial practice, production techniques, critical thinking, government affairs, and business law.

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Dissertation (45 CH | 60 ECTS)
Your original research project represents the culmination of your doctoral journey. Under expert supervision, you'll identify a significant business problem, design appropriate research methodology, collect and analyze data, and present findings that advance both theory and practice.

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I. Synthesize concepts, theories, and techniques across business functional areas at the advanced doctoral level

II. Formulate strategic solutions to complex business problems using advanced analytical and critical thinking skills

III. Demonstrate leadership abilities to effectively manage organizational change, ambiguity, and uncertainty

IV. Conduct original business research that addresses real-world problems and contributes new knowledge

V. Demonstrate self-directed learning skills to enhance knowledge in the field of business

VI. Evaluate ethical obligations and social responsibility considerations for responsible management

The taught element of the DBA focuses on providing the necessary background which supports research design and application by examining current methodological questions. To support candidates in their research, they will be assigned supervisor(s) who will provide subject knowledge. The research element will form the content of the dissertation.

The program consists of taught courses aimed at ensuring that the candidate is fully prepared to produce research of the highest quality and a series of seminars, which are aimed at providing a background to the area of research the student is undertaking.

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Academic credit requirements:

Minimum of 90 CH | 120 ECTS
45 CH | 60 ECTS in Core Courses (15 courses)
45 CH | 60 ECTS in Dissertation

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Completed MBA or Master’s degree in a business-related discipline
Completed AUS application form
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Motivation letter outlining reasons for pursuing the DBA and research interests
Official transcripts and copies of previous diplomas
Copy of valid passport or national ID
Proof of English proficiency (if prior studies were not completed in English)

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AUS offers a fair and transparent admissions process based on individual merit and potential. We look beyond basic eligibility to understand the specific context of your background, ensuring we balance high standards with true inclusivity. Guided by international quality standards and global partnerships, we provide direct, honest advice to help students and families choose the right path. Our goal is to align your prior experience and interests with the program that will best drive your future career.

To maximize your chances of securing a spot in our exclusive program, you can easily submit your application and supporting documents through our online portal. Because we prioritize a high-impact learning environment with a 1:7 faculty-to-student ratio, each intake is strictly limited to 20 students to ensure you receive the personalized coaching and mentorship necessary for professional success.

While we do not mandate a formal English certification for admission, the program is conducted entirely in English by leading business visionaries, requiring you to possess a high level of oral and written proficiency to thrive in advanced academic discourse and real-world projects. If you are ready to master both the data-driven hard skills and the collaborative soft skills required of modern data analytics leaders, we encourage you to start your application today.

AUS Elective Courses
AUS ELECTIVE 6 CH | 8 ECTS