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School of Postgraduate Studies

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) at Miva Open University is designed for senior professionals, executives, and entrepreneurs who want to develop advanced expertise in strategic leadership, business innovation, and applied research.

You will learn to solve complex business problems, design innovative strategies, and apply cutting-edge research methods to drive organisational performance and growth across global markets.

Admission Options

  • 100 Level Admissions
  • Direct Entry Admissions
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Full Tuition

$9,700

Tuition Per Semester

$1,800

Introduction to Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Start Your Doctorate in Business Administration

Advance your leadership and strategic decision-making skills while positioning yourself as a thought leader in business and management. The DBA programme equips you with the knowledge, practical skills, and research expertise needed to lead organisations, develop innovative solutions, and influence industry and policy decisions.


Throughout the programme, you will gain in-depth knowledge in strategic management, organisational leadership, innovation, corporate governance, and applied business research. You will also explore ethical, economic, and global considerations in modern business management.


The DBA programme combines theory, applied research, and practical projects, ensuring that you graduate with the expertise to lead complex organisations, implement innovative strategies, and produce research that drives real-world business impact.

Why you should apply :

  • Learn from experienced business leaders, industry experts, and applied researchers.
  • Develop practical, hands-on expertise in strategic management, leadership, and business innovation.
  • Conduct applied research that addresses real organisational challenges.
  • Study flexibly with an online structure designed for executives and senior professionals.
  • Access academic resources, research support, and dedicated success advisors throughout your programme.
  • Join a global network of business leaders, innovators, and DBA professionals.
  • Graduate with advanced skills that position you for senior executive roles, consultancy, or entrepreneurial ventures.
Programme Summary
Study Level
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Study Duration

6 Semesters

Mode of study

Blended Learning

Full Tuition

$9,700

Tuition Per Semester

$1,800

Apply Now

Applications for September 2026 admission is ongoing.

Apply before 30th September 2026, to secure your place. Discount applies for full year’s payment.

Applications for September 2026 admission is ongoing.

Apply before 30th September 2026, to secure your place. Discount applies for full year’s payment.

Curriculum

Programme Outline

Our curriculum is designed to provide students with the advanced competencies and strategic insights crucial for success across a spectrum of senior roles in business leadership. The course encapsulates a comprehensive range of subjects, including doctoral research, strategic planning, operations management, organisational behaviour, financial analysis, and executive leadership development.

  • Faculty Support
  • Digital Resources
  • Career Services
  • Student Community

Course Title
Status
Management Thoughts and Philosophy

C

 

This doctoral-level course explores the evolution and philosophical foundations of management thought, from classical theories to contemporary and emerging paradigms. It critically examines the interplay between management, ethics, culture, and societal development, with particular attention to African and global contexts. Students develop advanced analytical and research skills to evaluate, challenge, and synthesise diverse management ideologies. Emphasis is placed on context-sensitive thinking, interdisciplinary integration, and the formulation of innovative, research-driven frameworks relevant to Nigeria and other developing economies.

Course Status
  • Core course within the programme.
 
Operations Management and Strategy

C

 

This doctoral-level course examines the integration of operations management and strategy in achieving sustainable competitive advantage. It explores advanced frameworks for process design, supply chain management, capacity planning, and performance measurement within a global and digital context. Emphasis is placed on data-driven decision-making, innovation, sustainability, and operational resilience. Students develop critical, analytical, and research skills to design and implement effective operations strategies, address complex organizational challenges, and lead transformation initiatives, particularly in emerging economies such as Nigeria.

Course Status
  • Core course within the programme.
 
Issues in Creativity and Innovation

C

 

This course critically examines the theoretical frameworks, contemporary issues, and practical applications of creativity and innovation in business and organisational contexts. It emphasises strategic, technological, cultural, and policy dimensions, with particular attention to emerging economies and digital transformation. DBA students will engage with advanced frameworks, empirical research, and real-world examples to develop innovative solutions to complex organisational and societal challenges.

Course Status
  • Core course within the programme.

C – Core
E – Elective

Course Title
Status
Dynamic Business Contexts and Globalisation

C

 

This course examines the rapidly evolving global business landscape and the dynamic forces shaping organisations in a highly interconnected world. It equips DBA candidates with advanced analytical frameworks to understand globalisation, technological disruptionss, geopolitical shifts, sustainability imperatives, and institutional complexities affecting business strategy and leadership. The course emphasises critical thinking, applied research, and context-sensitive decision-making relevant to emerging and frontier markets, with particular attention paid to Nigeria and Africa.

Course Status
  • Core course within the programme.
 
Advanced Quantitative Techniques

C

 

This course provides doctoral-level exposure to advanced quantitative methods used in business research and decision-making. It emphasises rigorous analytical techniques, data-driven modelling, and the application of statistical and econometric tools in solving complex managerial problems. The course is designed for flexible, technology-enabled delivery, integrating digital tools, datasets, and applied research tasks.

Course Status
  • Core course within the programme.
 
Critical Thinking for Entrepreneurial Leadership

C

 

This course develops advanced critical thinking capabilities required for entrepreneurial leadership in complex, uncertain, and digitally evolving environments. It equips DBA candidates with analytical frameworks, reflective judgement, and evidence-based decision-making skills to identify opportunities, solve ill-structured problems, and lead innovative ventures. Emphasis is placed on real-world application within emerging and developing economies, particularly the Nigerian and African contexts.

Course Status
  • Core course within the programme.

C – Core
E – Elective

Course Title
Status
Advanced Research Methods

C

 

This doctoral-level course develops advanced competencies in designing and conducting rigorous, practice-orientated business research. It explores research philosophies, qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods approaches, and the use of digital tools for data collection and analysis. Emphasis is placed on problem formulation, theory integration, ethical considerations, and academic writing. Students gain the skills to produce publishable research, develop robust conceptual frameworks, and design and defend a high-quality DBA research proposal relevant to real-world organisational challenges.

Course Status
  • Core course within the programme.
 
AI and Digital Capabilities

C

 

This course examines the strategic, managerial, and transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in building digital capabilities within modern organisations. It equips DBA candidates with advanced analytical frameworks to evaluate, design, and lead AI-enabled digital transformation initiatives. Emphasis is placed on business value creation, governance, ethical considerations, and contextual applications in emerging economies, particularly Nigeria and Africa.

Course Status
  • Core course within the programme.
 
Consumer Behaviour and Firm Dynamics

C

 

This course provides an advanced, research-driven exploration of the interplay between consumer behaviour and firm dynamics in contemporary markets. It integrates behavioural theories, data analytics, and strategic firm responses within dynamic, technology-driven environments. Emphasis is placed on emerging market contexts (including Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa), digital consumer ecosystems, and firm adaptability under uncertainty. Students will develop the capacity to generate actionable insights, design evidence-based strategies, and contribute to scholarly discourse.

Course Status
  • Core course within the programme.

C – Core
E – Elective
Course Title
Status
Family Business Management in Africa
E
This course provides an advanced, research-driven exploration of family businesses within the African context. It examines governance structures, succession dynamics, cultural influences, institutional environments, innovation, and sustainability of family enterprises. Emphasis is placed on the intersection of tradition and modern management practices, with critical evaluation of African socio-economic realities, informal institutions, and global competitiveness.
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Seminar in Business Environment
E
This course provides an advanced, research-driven exploration of the contemporary business environment with emphasis on global, regional (African), and Nigerian contexts. It adopts a seminar format that promotes critical discourse, independent inquiry, and synthesis of interdisciplinary perspectives. Students will examine the macroeconomic, political, sociocultural, technological, legal, and ecological forces shaping business strategy and organisational performance. The course focuses on digital transformation, sustainability, governance, and emerging risks in dynamic environments.
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Change Management
E
This course provides a doctoral-level exploration of the theories, strategies, and practices of managing organisational change in complex and dynamic environments. It emphasises evidence-based approaches, digital transformation, leadership alignment, and context-specific challenges in emerging economies, such as Nigeria. Students will critically evaluate change models, design interventions, and apply advanced analytical tools to real-world organisational transformation scenarios.
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Seminar in Public Enterprises
E
This seminar-based course critically examines the theory, policy, governance, performance, and reform of public enterprises, with particular emphasis on Nigeria and other emerging economies. It adopts a multidisciplinary and research-driven approach, integrating public administration, strategic management, political economy, and institutional theory. The course emphasises advanced analytical discourse, case-based learning, and policy critique, enabling doctoral students to interrogate the complexities of state-owned enterprises (SOEs), privatisation, commercialisation, and public-private partnerships (PPPs).
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Business Ethics and Sustainability
E
This course provides an advanced, research-driven exploration of ethical principles, sustainability frameworks, and responsible leadership within contemporary business environments. It critically examines the intersection of corporate governance, environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic performance, with particular emphasis on emerging economies such as Nigeria. The DBA candidates will engage with theoretical debates, empirical research, and real-world case studies to develop strategic, ethical, and sustainable solutions to complex organisational challenges.
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Government, Business and Society
E
This course critically examines the dynamic and interdependent relationships between government institutions, business organizations, and society within both national and global contexts. It explores regulatory frameworks, public policy, corporate governance, sustainability, ethics, and socio-economic development, with particular emphasis on emerging economies such as Nigeria. The course adopts a multidisciplinary and practice-oriented approach suitable for doctoral-level inquiry, integrating theory, policy analysis, and DBA
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Advanced Operations Analysis
E
This course provides doctoral-level exploration of advanced analytical techniques used in operations management and decision-making. It focuses on using numbers and data to create models, improve processes, analyse uncertainty, and make decisions. Students will critically evaluate and apply advanced tools to solve real-world operational problems, particularly within emerging and developing economies. strategic decision-making.
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Technology Management
E
This course provides advanced knowledge and strategic insight into the management of technology as a critical driver of innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable development. It equips DBA scholars with the analytical, leadership, and decision-making skills required to align technological capabilities with organisational strategies in dynamic and digitallydriven environments, particularly within emerging economies such as Nigeria.
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Project Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation
E
This course provides advanced knowledge and practical competencies in the design, planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of development and business projects. It emphasises results-based management, data-driven decision-making, and the use of digital tools in project environments. Designed for DBA scholars, the course integrates theory, policy, and applied research within the Nigerian and global context, equipping learners to lead complex projects in public, private, and development sectors.
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Advanced Conflict Management
E
This course offers an advanced, research-driven examination of conflict management in organisational and socioeconomic contexts. It integrates theoretical frameworks with practical strategies for diagnosing, managing, and transforming complex conflicts. Emphasis is placed on negotiation, mediation, leadership, ethics, and the influence of culture, power, and governance. The course also explores digital tools and data-driven approaches to conflict resolution in modern organisations. With a strong emphasis on Nigeria and other developing economies, it helps doctoral students gain the analytical, strategic, and research skills needed to create effective conflict management plans that fit their specific situations.
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Business Valuation and Corporate Restructuring
E
This course provides advanced theoretical, analytical, and practical knowledge of business valuation and corporate restructuring within both emerging and developed market contexts. It emphasizes valuation methodologies, financial diagnostics, distressed firm analysis, restructuring strategies, and regulatory considerations, with particular relevance to Nigeria and other developing economies. The course integrates digital tools, case-based learning, and applied research suitable for DBA-level scholarship and executive decision-making.
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Multinational Enterprises and Fintechs
E
This course examines the structure, strategy, and operations of multinational enterprises (MNEs) and their interaction with financial technologies (FinTechs) in a globalised economy. It explores FinTech innovations, digital transformation, and cross-border regulatory, ethical, and governance challenges, with particular focus on emerging markets such as Nigeria. Students develop advanced analytical, strategic, and research skills to assess risks, drive innovation, and design policy-relevant solutions. The course integrates MNE theory, FinTech ecosystems, and digital finance to equip doctoral students with the tools to navigate and influence global business and financial technology landscapes.
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Advanced Marketing Theory
E
This course offers a doctoral-level exploration of marketing theory, tracing its evolution from classical paradigms to contemporary, digital, and global perspectives. It critically examines foundational and emerging frameworks, including consumer behavior, relationship marketing, service-dominant logic, and strategic marketing. Students develop advanced analytical and research skills to synthesise theories, design conceptual models, and apply insights to complex business challenges, with emphasis on ethical, sustainable, and African market contexts. The course equips learners to contribute to scholarly and professional discourse, integrating marketing theory with innovation, technology, and societal considerations.
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Advanced Digital Marketing
E
This course provides an in-depth, research-driven exploration of advanced digital marketing strategies, tools, and analytics within a global and African context. It emphasises data-driven decision-making, digital transformation, customer experience optimisation, and strategic integration of emerging technologies, such as AI, automation, and big data. DBA students will critically evaluate digital marketing frameworks and develop innovative, scalable solutions for complex business environments, particularly in emerging markets like Nigeria.
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Human Behaviour in Organisation
E
This course provides an advanced, research-driven exploration of human behaviour within organisational contexts. It integrates interdisciplinary perspectives from psychology, sociology, and management sciences to critically examine individual, group, and organisational dynamics. Emphasis is placed on applying theory to complex organisational challenges, particularly within emerging economies and digital work environments. The course is designed for doctoral-level inquiry, encouraging critical thinking, evidence-based decision-making, and scholarly contribution.
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
Organisation Design and Development
E
This course examines the advanced theories, frameworks, and practices of organisational design and development (ODD) in contemporary, dynamic, and digitally enabled environments. It focuses on aligning strategy, structure, processes, people, and culture to achieve sustainable performance and transformation. Emphasis is placed on African and global contexts, digital transformation, complexity, and evidence-based interventions.
Course Status
  • Elective course within the programme.
C – Core
E – Elective
Course Title
Status
Seminar I – Proposal Presentation
C
This course is designed to guide DBA candidates through the systematic development and presentation of a high-quality doctoral research proposal. It emphasises problem identification, theoretical grounding, methodological rigour, and scholarly communication within a digital learning environment. Students will engage in independent and collaborative learning activities, culminating in a formal proposal presentation suitable for academic and professional audiences.
Course Status
  • Core course within the programme.
Seminar II – Interim Report Presentation
C
This seminar equips students to communicate complex research findings clearly and visually in an online environment. Emphasis is placed on distinguishing what the audience needs to know now versus what can wait for the final thesis. Students learn to structure presentations with clarity, focusing on key interim results, relevant methodology, and preliminary insights. Instruction covers concise slide design, effective use of visuals, data-driven storytelling, and interactive digital engagement. Participants develop skills to present evidence-based, credible, and contextually relevant findings while inviting feedback, ensuring succinct, professional, and impactful interim presentations.
Course Status
  • Core course within the programme.
Internship
C
This advanced internship bridges the gap between doctoral-level theory and industry practice. Candidates will immerse themselves in organisational settings to tackle complex business challenges through the lens of strategic thinking and digital transformation. By applying high-level research skills, you will diagnose real-world problems, integrate data analytics, and propose evidence-based solutions. The course emphasises leadership, ethical reflection, and consulting competencies, culminating in a professional report that aligns your academic research with contemporary industry needs. It is a critical platform for mastering organisational analysis and driving innovation within the Nigerian and global business landscapes.
Course Status
  • Core course within the programme.
C – Core
E – Elective

Course Title
Status
DBA Thesis and Viva

C

 

This capstone course marks the culmination of the DBA journey, focusing on the production and defence of a high-impact, concise thesis. Emphasising “quality over quantity”, students tackle specific Nigerian or global business challenges through rigorous evidence-based research.

The course guides candidates through structured writing, from SMART problem identification to practical recommendations for policymakers. Leveraging ODDL flexibility and digital tools, students refine their work for a professional viva voce. Ultimately, this module validates your ability to master complex methodologies and contribute original, practical insights to the field of business management.

Course Status
  • Core course within the programme.

C – Core
E – Elective

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements for Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Entry Requirements for Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Here’s what you need to study for the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programme at Miva Open University
  • A Bachelor’s degree (BSc, BA) from a recognised institution.
  • A Master’s degree (MBA, MSc, MPA or related discipline) e.g. Management, Finance, Economics, Technology, Entrepreneurship from a recognised institution.
  • Minimum of five (5) years relevant professional or managerial experience
  • Submission of a statement of purpose / research interest
  • Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Careers

Potential Roles for Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Degree Holders

  • Chief Executive Officer (CEO)/Managing Director
  • Chief Operating Officer (COO)
  • Strategy Director
  • Senior Management Consultant
  • Entrepreneur/Founder
  • Business Innovation Manager
  • Executive Leadership Advisor
  • Corporate Governance Specialist
  • Applied Researcher/Academic Practitioner
  • Policy & Strategy Consultant

Tuition

Payment Plans

Miva Open University offers a flexible payment plan for its degree programmes. You may choose to pay the year’s fee or per semester.

Tuition Per Semester

$1,800

  • Pay Per Semester.
  • No hidden charges.
  • No additional costs.

Full Tuition

$9,700

  • Pay full tuition
  • No hidden charges.
  • No additional costs.

* Discount applies for full year’s payment

Apply Now

FAQ

Common Inquiries About the DBA Programme

We’ve answered the most common questions prospective DBA candidates ask.

Is Miva Open University licensed by the NUC?

Yes. Miva Open University is a degree-awarding institution licensed by the National Universities Commission (NUC). All programmes, including the DBA, meet approved academic quality standards.

What is the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)?

The DBA is a terminal professional doctorate designed for senior leaders. It combines advanced business research with practical application to help you solve complex organisational challenges and lead at an executive level.

Who is the DBA programme for?

It is designed for senior professionals, executives, entrepreneurs, consultants, and business leaders who want to strengthen strategic leadership and influence organisational decision-making.

What are the entry requirements for the DBA?

Applicants are typically expected to hold a master's degree, such as an MBA or a related qualification, with relevant professional experience in leadership, management, or business practice.

How long does the DBA programme take?

The programme is structured over 3 academic sessions (24 months), allowing working professionals to complete it flexibly while maintaining their careers.

Do I need work experience to apply?

Yes. The DBA is designed for experienced professionals, so relevant managerial or executive-level experience is expected.

Is the programme fully online?

Yes. The DBA is delivered fully online, allowing you to study from anywhere without physical attendance.

How are assessments conducted?

Assessments include applied research projects, coursework, and a doctoral dissertation focused on real-world business challenges.

Can I specialise in a specific area?

Yes. The programme allows you to focus your research and studies in the following areas: Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Management, Finance & Fintech, and Technology & Operations Management.

What career opportunities are available after the DBA?

Graduates are positioned for senior executive and specialist roles such as CEO, COO, strategy director, senior consultant, entrepreneur, or policy advisor.

How much is the DBA tuition fee?

Tuition is structured to remain affordable for executives while maintaining academic quality. Detailed fee information is provided during the application process.

Can I take study breaks during the programme?

Yes. The programme is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing approved study breaks where necessary.

What support will I receive as a DBA student?

You will have access to academic guidance, research supervision support, and student success advisors throughout your programme.

Can international students apply?

Yes. The DBA is open to both local and international applicants who meet the admission requirements.