01 Overview

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Doctorate in Business Administration

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DBA

Doctorate in Business Administration

Three years, part-time structure, 90 CH | 150 ECTS.

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Student-to-staff ratio

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Employed or in Graduate School within six months of graduation

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Nationalities

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Multinational HQs nearby

Overview

Doctor of Business Administration

Entry Dates

September, January, April

Duration

3 Years

Structure

Seven academic terms, followed by a final dissertation and oral defense

Credits

90 CH / 150 ECTS

Language

English

Program Overview

The highest level of professional business education — for senior executives and leaders.

The Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) is the highest level of professional business education. Designed for senior executives, entrepreneurs, and leaders with extensive professional experience, the DBA combines rigorous academic research with real-world application. Students conduct original research that addresses complex business challenges, contributing new knowledge to the field of management.

Executive leadership and strategic thinking
Advanced business research methodologies
Organizational transformation and innovation
Industry-specific expertise development
Doctoral dissertation and original research
Global business governance
Ethical leadership and corporate responsibility
Knowledge transfer and thought leadership

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Employed or in graduate school within six months

Curriculum

Three years — Seven academic terms, followed by a final dissertation and oral defense — 90 CH / 150 ECTS.

Year 1

Epistemology and Contemporary Management Theory
Advanced Strategic Formulations and Corporate Governance
Econometrics and Evidence-Based Decision-Making
Quantitative Research Methods and Data Analysis
Qualitative Research Methods and Thematic Analysis
Mixed Methods Research Architectures

Year 2

Research Ethics, Governance, and Data Integrity
Doctoral Research Literature Review Seminar
Advanced Research Colloquium and Peer Review
Doctoral Research Proposal and Pre-Defense

Year 3

Dissertation Proposal Validation and Methodology Design
Fieldwork, Data Collection and Empirical Analysis
Thesis Drafting, Review, and Faculty Supervisor Clearance
External Subject Matter Assessment and Final Oral Defense

The modules listed above are subject to change at any time. This overview serves only as an indicative guide to key subjects.

Career Outcomes

Your Future with a DBA

The DBA prepares graduates for the highest levels of professional and academic leadership, combining executive expertise with original research capabilities.

C-Suite Executive

Lead organizations at the highest level, driving strategy, growth, and stakeholder value.

Business Consultant

Advise Fortune 500 companies and governments on complex strategic and operational challenges.

Academic Researcher

Conduct original research and publish in leading academic journals, shaping business theory.

Board Member

Serve on corporate or nonprofit boards, providing governance and strategic oversight.

Entrepreneur

Found and scale ventures based on original research and deep industry expertise.

Industry Expert

Become a recognized thought leader through publications, speaking, and consulting.

Policy Advisor

Advise governments and international organizations on business and economic policy.

Executive Educator

Teach and develop MBA and executive education programs at leading business schools.

The AUS Advantage

Why AUS Business School

Focused Learning

With a 7:1 student-to-staff ratio and classes limited to 20 students, you receive personal attention and meaningful interaction.

Original Research

Conduct original doctoral research that advances knowledge in your field and makes a real-world impact.

Top-Ranked

Top-ranked by QS. Five-star rated for teaching and class experience.

Career-Focused

Build practical business skills through specialization modules, industry visits, guest speakers, and networking opportunities.

Tuition Fees

26'000 CHF / year

Calculate My Costs → Admissions & Financing →

Admissions

Join a community built for ambition.

1 Core Requirements

To qualify for this program, applicants must have a recognized Master's degree, MBA, or equivalent postgraduate qualification, preferably in a business-related field.
Applicants should also possess a minimum of 3 to 5 years of professional work experience, ideally currently working in a leadership or management position.

Language: English C-Level with an IELTS score of overall 6.0 with no single element below 5.5.
Motivation: A letter explaining why you are pursuing this Doctoral Degree, your goals, and the specific value you will bring to your peer group, and to the wider area of a primary research study.

2 Admissions Philosophy

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.

Our goal is to align your prior experience and interests with the program that will best drive your future career.

Not sure whether your background meets the entry requirements? Our admissions team can review your profile and guide your next step.

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Next Intake

January 2027

Classes begin: 11 January 2027 · Application deadline: 15 November 2026 · Program availability is confirmed by Admissions.

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"The DBA transformed my approach to leadership. The rigorous research and global perspective I gained at AUS have fundamentally changed how I lead and innovate in my organization."

Alumni testimonial

DBA — Business Administration

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