DBA Programme Structure
In our DBA programme, we offer two distinctive intertwining learning models to cater to the diverse needs of our students: the blended delivery model and the commuter learner model.
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Our blended delivery model seamlessly integrates the advantages of both online and in-person learning, offering flexibility without compromising on quality. This approach allows you to engage in enriching online discussions and coursework while also participating in on-campus sessions for hands-on experiences and networking opportunities.
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Our commuter learner model is tailored to accommodate busy professionals who may find it challenging to commit to regular campus visits. This model emphasises flexible scheduling and leverages technology.
The DBA takes a minimum of four years to complete.
Your DBA journey will follow a structured approach. A "structured" approach means breaking down your doctoral work into smaller pieces that add up to your final submission.
The Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) programme is divided into four stages:
Attendance
The programmes requires attendance in person three times per year, for the first two years. Workshops are delivered in blocks consisting of three-day on-campus. Workshops are supplemented by pre- and post-sessions delivered online.
Where will DBA students study?
With campus locations in Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Donegal along with access to off-campus learning environments across Ireland, workshop delivery will be facilitated in a location that meets with the cohorts needs.
Online content will be delivered live and interactive on the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), with the opportunity to access resources and recorded sessions at a time that suits.
DBA students are required to attend an on-campus induction in Semester 1 “Preparing the Mindset”.
Taught Elements (Year 1 & Year 2, part-time study)
Each of the 6 core taught modules integrate advice on academic writing skills and have a dedicated focus on the forthcoming research proposal. The research proposal is written during the final module of the taught element.
Workshop Themes:
- Becoming a Professor of Practice – Reflective and reflexive practice, academic writing, variations of literature review.
- Grand and Middle Range theories in areas such as Strategic Management, Leadership and Change Management, Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Technology, Digital Transformation, AI, Healthcare Processes.
- Research Paradigms and Philosophies, Methodologies, Methods, Applied Research Design.
- Data Preparation and Preliminary Analysis, including comparing groups and exploring relationships through data sets.
- Qualitative Methodologies e.g., case study, narrative, action learning, processual, etc. Qualitative analysis using manual analysis and NVivo.
- Ethics and Integrity, The Research Proposal, Getting Published.
Blended delivery model for Taught Modules:
In order to proceed to the research stage (years 3 & 4), the DBA candidate must have successfully completed all 6 workshops and attained the 60 ECTS credits.
Research Paper Series, Thesis and Viva (Years 3 and 4, part-time study)
The research element is based the production of a series of 3 research papers which are written in tandem with pursuit of the research project. Each of these papers are supported by 1 to 1 consultation with the research supervisors and are reviewed by an external advisor. Research papers which reach an acceptable standard at doctoral level can be integrated as chapters into the final dissertation. The 3 research papers are as follows:
- Literature Review: due semester 5
- Methodology: due semester 6
- Analysis and Findings: due semester 7
Research paper and dissertation indicative schedule Years 3 & 4.
