Postgraduate Program

Doctor of Business Administration

TWO PATHS TO EARN A DBA WITH TWO ACCREDITED DEGREES

This hybrid, dual-accredited, part-time DBA program is offered by SBS Zurich Campus in collaboration with one of two Business School partners and provides candidates with two academic pathways.

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Format:

Part-Time

Language:

English

Duration:

3 years

Location:

Phase I: SBS Zurich Campus / Phase II: Clearmont School of Business or SBS Malta Campus

Apply Now

WHAT MAKES OUR DOCTOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION UNIQUE?

The DBA at SBS Swiss Business School is designed for seasoned professionals ready to elevate their expertise and make a lasting impact in both their organizations and industries. With a strong focus on applied academic research, this program is an opportunity to drive meaningful change and advance business practices.

This hybrid, dual-accredited, part-time DBA is offered by SBS Swiss Business School, Zurich Campus, in collaboration with one of two academic partners, giving candidates a choice of two distinct pathways.

Students may complete the degree with Clermont School of Business, which holds AACSB and AMBA accreditations, along with EFMD accreditation for its Bachelor's program, or with SBS Swiss Business School, Malta Campus, licensed by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA) as a Higher Education Institution (License Number: 2024-001) and awarding a state-accredited DBA aligned with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).

Both pathways maintain the same rigorous academic standards, while the Malta pathway additionally provides formal state recognition within the European higher education system.

See Where the SBS DBA Can Take You

Explore salary insights, professional experience, international diversity, and the industries and leadership roles represented within the SBS DBA community. Discover the backgrounds of experienced professionals pursuing their DBA at SBS Swiss Business School.

View the DBA Class Profile 2024–2025

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LIMITED SEATS AVAILABLE!

Learn More About Our DBA – Join the Upcoming Webinar or Book a Personalized Appointment:

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DBA Info Webinar

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Dec

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DBA Info Webinar

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Note

The DBA program is a part-time study and does not qualify for a student permit in Canton Zurich.

TWO PATHS TO EARN A DBA WITH TWO ACCREDITED DEGREES

DBA Program Structure

PHASE I

COURSEWORK PHASE (First Accredited Degree)

The learning journey begins with an intensive, in-person coursework phase of 18 months, delivered through weekend workshops every three months at SBS Swiss Business School, Zurich Campus.

This phase concludes with the Swiss State-Accredited Master of Science in Applied Business Research (MABR), ensuring a strong foundation in applied research, analytical methods, and evidence-based management.

Upon successful completion of Phase I, candidates may progress to Phase II and choose between two academically recognized pathways to earn their Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree.

PHASE II

RESEARCH PHASE (Second Accredited Degree)

PATH 2: DBA from SBS Swiss Business School, Malta Campus

Candidates who select this pathway earn a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) accredited by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA) and formally recognized at MQF Level 8.
This option is particularly attractive for individuals seeking a state-accredited European doctoral degree, aligned with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).

Because Malta is part of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), this pathway ensures broad recognition across Europe and in regions that value European academic standards, enhancing worldwide professional mobility.

PHASE II

RESEARCH PHASE (Second Accredited Degree)

PATH 1: DBA from Clermont School of Business

In this pathway, candidates earn a DBA degree from Clermont School of Business, a French business school holding AACSB and AMBA accreditations, along with EFMD accreditation for its Bachelor's program.

This pathway is ideal for professionals seeking a globally recognized doctoral credential from a business school with a long-standing academic reputation.

RESEARCH DURATION FOR BOTH PATHS

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree, whether earned through - Clermont School of Business or SBS Malta - is awarded upon the successful completion of a minimum 18-month remote research program, with a maximum duration of six years to complete all requirements.

SBS DBA AT A GLANCE:

HYBRID, DUAL-ACCREDITED, PART-TIME DBA PROGRAM

Fully in English

3-YEAR COMPLETION PERIOD

Coursework Phase (18 Months)

Research Phase (18 Months):

Two Paths: Clermont School of Business or SBS Malta

DESIGNED FOR EXPERIENCED LEADERS:

Tailored for professionals aiming to drive organizational and industry impact.

COMPREHENSIVE, RESEARCH-DRIVEN CURRICULUM:

Advanced coursework in business theory, research methodologies, and data analysis, culminating in an original doctoral dissertation.

FLEXIBLE HYBRID LEARNING:

Blends in-person weekend sessions with online modules in the first year, followed by remote research in subsequent years, offering flexibility for busy professionals.

ACCELERATED COMPLETION:

Complete the DBA in a minimum of three years with flexible options for balancing work and study.

TWO ACCREDITATIONS WITH GLOBAL RECOGNITION:

Choose between two prestigious DBA programs to earn the second accredited degree: an internationally recognized degree from Clermont School of Business or Malta state-accredited DBA from SBS Swiss Business School, Malta Campus.

PROGRAM DETAILS

The SBS Swiss Business School Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) can be completed in a minimum of three years, following a structured progression from the Coursework Phase to the supervised Research Phase.

Coursework Phase (18 months)

The first phase consists of intensive in-person workshops and seminars, taught through weekend sessions every three months at the SBS Zurich Campus. Courses are delivered in a classroom-based, immersive workshop format and are assessed through written assignments.

To advance to the Research Phase, candidates must successfully complete a set of assessed Research Proposals. Once approved, students progress to independent, supervised research work.

Coursework Modules

Management Research Perspectives
Information Technologies for Business Research
Advanced Statistics and Data Analysis
Critical Analysis of Research
Global Environments and Management Trends
Contemporary Management
Research Methods in Business & Management

This phase lays the academic and methodological foundation required for high-level applied research.

Upon successfully completing Phase 1, students are awarded the Swiss State-Accredited Master of Science in Applied Business Research (MABR).

Research Phase (18 months):

Candidates can choose to further their academic journey by pursuing a DBA degree from either Clermont School of Business (Path 1) or SBS Swiss Business School, Malta Campus (Path 2).

During the Research Phase, candidates undertake independent, supervised research projects, each resulting in a publishable-quality research paper. These projects allow students to specialize within a broad organizational and management context, addressing real-world challenges related to leadership, change, strategy, and process improvement.

The program culminates in the submission of a doctoral dissertation, which is externally examined by independent experts to ensure academic rigor and international credibility.

Upon successfully completing both phases, candidates are awarded the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree from their chosen Business School.

Classes starting	September
Duration	3 years
Format / Location	Hybrid

Apply Now Appointment Request

Explore the SBS Swiss Business School Academic Calendar for the DBA, featuring key dates, term schedules, exams, and thesis deadlines for students.

ACADEMIC CALENDAR

Download the next Academic Calendar

Mode of Study: Hybrid, part-time, 3 years

SBS Credits: 180 | EQF Level: 8

Admissions Requirements:

Successful completion of an MBA degree
Min. 10 years of professional work experience, out of which min. five years of experience at the executive/managerial level
English Proficiency for non-native speakers
Successful completion of the admissions interview
Minimum age required: 30 years

Required documentation for a successful Doctor of Business Administration Application

Copy of MBA degree/transcript or related Master’s degree i.e. economics, business
Complete CV and work certificates indicating professional experiences and responsibilities
- Min. 10 years of professional work experience, out of which min. five years of experience at the executive/managerial level
1000-word outline of proposed research topic/idea
English proficiency unless previous education was conducted in English
- TOEFL IBT 90, IELTS 6.5, Duolingo or equivalent
Front-facing photograph, high quality in jpg/png/gif format
Copy of passport or ID

Application Deadline:

For applicants from non-EU/non-Schengen countries, the application deadline for each annual DBA intake is August 15. The program begins in mid-September each year.

Late applications may be considered on an exceptional basis; however, admission is not guaranteed. We strongly encourage applicants to apply early to allow sufficient time for application processing and visa arrangements and to increase their chances of securing a place in the program.

Notes:

The DBA program is offered on a part-time basis and does not qualify students for a student residence permit in the Canton of Zurich.

Please note that scholarships are not available for the DBA program.

Tuition Fees for both DBA program Paths (same Fee):

We offer a 5% discount on full payment at the start of the program.

Application fee (one-time non-refundable)	CHF 150.-
Administration fee (one-time, non-refundable)	CHF 5'000.-
Semester 1	CHF 10’000.-
Semester 2	CHF 10’000.-
Semester 3	CHF 10’000.-
Semester 4	CHF 5’000.-
Semester 5	CHF 5’000.-
Total Program Fees	CHF 45’150.-

Notes:

All fees include material and VAT, amounts are stated in the local currency of Swiss Francs (CHF).
The total includes CHF 40'000 in semester tuition fees, a CHF 5'000 administration fee, and a CHF 150 non-refundable application fee.
Tuition fees are payable in five installments according to the program's payment schedule.
Please note that scholarships are not available for the DBA program.

SBS Swiss Business School, located in Kloten-Zurich, Switzerland, is institutionally accredited under the Swiss Higher Education Act (HEdA) by the Swiss Accreditation Council as a university of applied sciences institute (2021–2028).

SBS is also accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC) as an independent higher education institution in Switzerland.

Selected SBS business programs hold specialized international accreditations from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE), both recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

Important Information

Accreditation of the DBA Pathways

Path 1: Clermont School of Business, France
The DBA degree is awarded by Clermont School of Business, France, which holds its own international accreditations.
Path 2: SBS Swiss Business School, Malta Campus
The DBA program offered through SBS Malta Campus is accredited in Malta and aligned with Level 8 of the Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF) and the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).

SBS Malta Campus is licensed by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA) as a Higher Education Institution (License No. 2024-001).

Applicants are encouraged to verify the recognition and acceptance of their intended DBA qualification in the country where they plan to use it, including any applicable professional or academic requirements.

Learn more about our accreditation bodies

SBS Swiss Business School has earned international recognition for its commitment to high-quality, globally oriented business education.

Several SBS programs have been recognized through international rankings and listings published by organizations such as QS and CEO Magazine.

Our rankings, ratings, and recognitions include:

Joint #4 Globally – Executive MBA, CEO Magazine Global MBA Rankings 2026
#5 Globally – Online MBA, CEO Magazine Global MBA Rankings 2026
Premier DBA Provider – CEO Magazine Global DBA Listing 2026
#29 in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) – Online MBA, QS Online MBA Rankings 2026
QS 5-Star Rating for Online Learning, recognizing SBS's online learning provision

These achievements reflect SBS's international recognition and ongoing commitment to practical, internationally oriented business education.

Explore our latest rankings and awards to learn more about SBS Swiss Business School's international recognition.

Rankings and Awards

Discover the professional backgrounds and international diversity of students enrolled in the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program at SBS Swiss Business School.

Explore our DBA Class Profile for insights into student demographics, international representation, professional experience, employment sectors, job titles, and salary information.

ANNUAL PROGRAM REPORTS

Review our class and employment profiles

TESTIMONIALS

Student & Alumni Voices

This is a really intriguing program because it gives me a total understanding of business and also how to advise senior management and also work with the team force.

Jefferson Akhigbe

DBA Student

SBS’s DBA is a transformative experience. I am balancing its demands while learning from internationally experienced faculty and building a global peer network that enriches my academic and professional journey.

Maru Wegener

DBA Student

I chose SBS’s DBA to combine rigorous academic study with practical application. The program is demanding yet flexible and supportive, providing valuable insights that I apply directly in my professional work with clients.

Tony Buckle

DBA Alumni

The DBA was about more than personal growth; it was about transforming my family business. It gave me the clarity and courage to innovate, like taking an X-ray of the business and identifying where to grow stronger.

Mahmoud Khalaili

DBA Alumni

I would highly recommend the DBA program to all individuals who are eager to prepare themselves for a successful and rewarding future.

Cristina Troiani Rodriguez

DBA Alumna

I liked that there was always a person with who I was able to get in contact with as well as the quick feedback upon my questions and items raised.

Oliver Kuerten

DBA Alumni

I liked the family spirit and I would summarize my experience as following: Inspirational, challenging, and life-changing.

Rima Yasser Helal

The contact with my fellow students and to the lecturers and faculty was very valuable and I am very proud of my degree at SBS.

Claudia Hartlieb

DBA Alumna

The DBA program at SBS is challenging but totally enjoyable!

Mark Lambert

DBA Alumni

I graduated with a wealth of knowledge from the academic studies I pursued, the many experiences I encountered, the networks I built and the memories I helped build.

Matongo Chikuba Shilimi

DBA Alumna

My motivation for studying at SBS Swiss Business School was the schools ranking, location, flexibility, study schedule and the support of the faculty.

Hessa Ali Rashed Ali AlKaabi

DBA Alumni

My motivation to study is to further my learning and interested in the subject of employee engagement.

Andy C.S. Lock

DBA Alumni

It was a great experience to study, learn and evolve both on an academic and professional level.

Mohammed Khalfan Saeed Aldhaheri

DBA Alumni

My overall experience was very positive. Three years of hard work, but rewarding work.

Tomas Olsson

DBA Alumni

I would recommend SBS Swiss Business School to anyone who is passionate about science.

Viktor Prokopenya

DBA Alumni

The DBA is a great flexible program suitable for executives.

Yassar Adnan Hamdan

DBA Alumni

The research skills I have learnt have enabled me to broadening and extend my capability profile.

Anthony Chibo-Christopher

DBA Alumni

I decided to do the SBS DBA because it would enhance my business and employment opportunities.

Ng Kim Fai

DBA Alumni

TESTIMONIALS

Faculty Voices

The DBA equips senior leaders to conduct applied research and address complex business challenges. It develops the ability to generate knowledge within organizations, improving decision-making, performance, and leadership impact in a changing global environment.

Prof. Dr. Bert Wolfs

Academic Dean & DBA Program Manager

I enjoy visiting SBS in Zurich and working with diverse faculty and students worldwide. The DBA program fosters global collaboration and develops leaders who address major societal challenges through applied doctoral education.

Dr Barry A. Vann

Adjunct Faculty

SBS DBA students are top-notch, enthusiastic, and highly determined. I enjoy teaching the Mega Project Workshop and value the rigorous yet flexible academic environment, which fosters meaningful engagement and strong practical application.

Dr. Lavagno Ika

Adjunct Faculty

I teach in the DBA program, where we combine applied learning with strong academic foundations. Students develop skills to solve real business problems while also contributing to academic knowledge and research.

Prof. Dr. Günther Singer

Adjunct Faculty

Admissions

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