Doctor of Business Administration

The DBA at Curtin has two stages. You begin by completing a Graduate Certificate in Business Research (6 months full-time or up to 2 years part-time), which provides the skills and knowledge needed to progress your thesis. Once you complete the graduate certificate with a course-weighted average of 70% or above, you then enrol in your thesis unit (3 years full-time or 6 years part-time).

You need five years' professional business or management experience plus a 70 per cent course-weighted average from a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or equivalent master degree. You must also obtain authorisation from an appropriate research supervisor, submit a written statement and references, and attend an interview. International applicants are allowed direct entry but must maintain a 70 per cent course-weighted average in the first semester to continue.

Australian citizens, permanent residents and New Zealand citizens who are successful applicants of a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program are eligible for a tuition fee exemption under the Australian Government's Research Training Program (RTP) for up to four years of full-time equivalent study for Doctoral or PhD programs.

You will learn to apply discipline specific theories, concepts, models, frameworks and/or principles to address contemporary business challenges; critique business practices; apply appropriate research methodologies to solve contemporary business and/or industry problems; select appropriate technologies for research, data collection and analysis; design, implement, analyse, theorise and communicate research that makes a significant and original contribution to professional practice; demonstrate superior oral and written communications skills; and recognise internal and external influences on business and recommend decisions that demonstrate social inclusivity and responsible ethical judgements.

If you do not have prior studies in research methods and statistical data analysis, you will be required to complete relevant preparatory units. Please note that these units may increase the overall course duration.