Doctor of Business Administration

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

As a doctoral research degree candidate, you will uncover new knowledge either by the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. Your research will use an in-depth understanding of theories and concepts to develop practical solutions for real-world problems.

A higher degree by research differs from other postgraduate degrees in that at least two-thirds of the study program must involve research. Although some coursework units may be required, the main part of your work will be in the form of a thesis written under the guidance of a supervisor and associate supervisor(s). Your thesis must, in the opinion of the examiners, be a substantial original contribution to the knowledge or understanding of any field through the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. It must also demonstrate your capacity to conceive, design and complete independent research.

Throughout your studies, the Curtin Business School will provide you with access to facilities and resources to support your research, and financial assistance to attend appropriate local and international conferences.

What you'll learn

• have a thorough foundation of contemporary business and research theories, concepts and principles and be able to apply these in a group or organisational and/or research environment; an understanding of appropriate research methodologies and support of research paradigms
• create and critically evaluate innovative ideas and strategies within ambiguous and uncertain business environments through conceptual and research application
• access, evaluate and synthesise diverse information for intelligent business application and research methodologies
• effectively communicate in a manner appropriate to their audience and their desired outcomes; this may include verbal outcomes required for candidacies and written presentation of thesis and subsequent journal publication
• select and use appropriate technologies and recognise their advantages and limitations in undertaking research data collection and analysis
• possess and be able to utilise life-long learning strategies through generalisable or prescriptive application of research findings to business environments
• recognise and apply international research methodology perspectives within the global business environment
• appreciate the complexity of organisations and have knowledge of research instruments that assist analysis and interpretation of the changing infrastructure and environment for an organisation
• recognise and apply international research methodology perspectives; work independently and in teams; demonstrate leadership; understand and demonstrate professional behaviour; demonstrate ethical practices