Doctorate in Business Administration (Top-up)

The Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) Top-up is an advanced doctoral-level programme designed for experienced professionals who already hold a relevant master’s qualification and want to achieve the highest level of academic achievement in business and management. This programme focuses on developing expert knowledge, strategic thinking, and high-level research skills to address complex business challenges in real organisational settings.
The DBA Top-up allows learners to build on their existing academic and professional experience by completing a major research project or thesis. It is ideal for senior managers, business leaders, consultants, and entrepreneurs who want to contribute original knowledge to the field of business administration while improving organisational performance and decision-making.
This qualification is highly respected internationally and supports career progression into executive leadership, consultancy, and academic roles. It develops strong skills in research, innovation, and strategic leadership, enabling learners to solve real-world business problems effectively. The DBA Top-up is an excellent choice for professionals aiming to enhance their authority, influence, and impact in today’s global business environment.
Inspire Institue of Technologies is an approved academic partner of the EuroAmerican Institute (EAI) and is authorized to deliver this programme. EuroAmerican Institute (EAI) programmes, delivered via EIMT and accredited by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (Licence No. 2024-032), are internationally recognised and aligned with EQF/MQF standards. These qualifications are widely accepted and typically receive positive evaluations from World Education Services, ensuring strong global recognition.
Course Overview
Study Units
Dissertation
Duration
12 months
Study Mood
Online
Assessment
Assessment Based
Course Study Units
The Dissertation is the most important element of the Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) Top-up (12 months), designed to demonstrate advanced independent research skills and high-level critical thinking. This module requires learners to identify a complex real-world business issue and explore it using robust research methods, theoretical models, and evidence-based analysis aligned with UK doctoral standards.
Through this dissertation, learners produce an original and meaningful academic study that contributes to both professional practice and organisational development. It focuses on applying strategic leadership insights, research techniques, and advanced management concepts to address practical business challenges. The final outcome reflects doctoral-level expertise and prepares graduates for senior executive positions, consultancy roles, or academic careers in the global business environment.

Entry Requirements
Who Can Enroll
The Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) Top-up is designed for highly experienced professionals and senior leaders who wish to achieve the highest level of academic qualification in business and management. This programme is ideal for individuals aiming to enhance their strategic leadership abilities, contribute original research to the business field, and make a significant impact in their organisations or industries.
- Professionals holding a recognised Master’s degree in Business Administration or a related field
- Senior managers and executives seeking to enhance strategic leadership and decision-making skills
- Business consultants aiming to develop advanced research and analytical expertise
- Entrepreneurs who want to gain deeper insight into complex business challenges
- Academics and lecturers looking to strengthen their research profile and professional credibility
- Professionals with extensive experience in leadership, management, or consultancy roles
- Individuals working in corporate, public sector, or international business environments
- Policy makers and advisors involved in strategic business or organisational development
- Candidates interested in contributing original research to the field of business administration
- Experienced professionals aiming for executive-level, consultancy, or academic career progression
Course Learning Outcomes
Dissertation (Doctorate in Business Administration – Top-up)
- Critically identify and define a complex, real-world business problem relevant to organisational or industry practice.
- Design and implement advanced research methodologies aligned with UK doctoral standards.
- Apply appropriate theoretical frameworks to support in-depth analysis and evidence-based decision-making.
- Collect, analyse, and interpret qualitative and/or quantitative data to generate meaningful insights.
- Produce an original, academically rigorous dissertation that contributes to professional practice and organisational improvement.
