The Rushford DBA in International Business is a 180 ECTS credits doctoral program designed to equip business students, managers, practitioners, and leaders with high-level knowledge, research, and analytical skills so that they can apply these personal and professional attributes to solve the most complex business problems. In contrast to programs at the master level, the DBA program focuses on the application of theory to real-world business challenges. Students are expected to go through a transformative learning process that enhances their research skills, so they view business situations differently with an emphasis on applying research methods and finding solutions that lead to organizational efficiency, growth, and long-term sustainability.

This is a flexible though rigorous program that can be completed 100% online. Students define the pace at which they complete the program. Based on the pathway that the student chooses (Coursework vs Research), the duration of the program will vary significantly. Most students are expected to achieve the qualification within 3 years of joining the program. However, the research pathway can lead to a qualification in less than 3 years.

The Rushford DBA in International Business program focuses on applied research so that executives, managers, and practitioners can start applying what they learn in the program in their organizations in real-time. We focus on ensuring that our students develop a very high level of expertise in all areas of international business. The coursework will also focus on the enhancement of research skills, writing skills, presentation skills, critical and analytical thinking skills, and change management skills.

Upon completing the program, students should be able to:

• Apply research methodologies to study the business situations and address business challenges
• Conduct primary and secondary research to understand business challenges
• Apply a deep understanding of international business fundamentals and practices to predict outcomes
• Develop a high level of command over business communications
• Articulate complex ideas, strategies, plans, and tactics in a clear and effective manner
• Develop a high level of proficiency in creating meaningful reports that use data collection, data cleaning, data interpretation, and engaging reporting with the use of data visualization
• Engage in academic and professional research activities that may lead to publications in peer-review journals
• Develop high-level proficiency in applying robust research methodologies, study design, and study conduct in producing a thesis at the end of the program as part of the requirement for the conferring of the doctorate qualification

The Rushford DBA program can be completed either through a coursework-based pathway or a research-based pathway. More information is available on these pathways in the curriculum section of this program page.

Rushford offers Recognition of Prior Experience (RPE) and thus a formal master’s degree is not mandatory for entering this program. However, a prior bachelor’s degree is mandatory for entry into this program.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Award:

All doctoral candidates are eligible to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) award instead of the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) award. Only one title can be awarded to the doctoral candidate. This selection is required to be confirmed before or immediately after all the requirements for graduation are completed. Those students who had received an exemption for any prior academic qualification through the Recognition of Prior Experience (RPE) are only eligible to receive the DBA award.