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Executive Doctor of Business Administration from SSBM

SSBM Doctor of Business Administration helps you build business expertise and leadership skills. Learn online with 19+ specializations and PwC board advisory certification to prepare for top roles like CEO, CFO.

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300+

Students Graduated

Accreditation

ACBSP

What happens after you do your Doctorate

Earn a PwC Board Advisory Certification

Release your Doctoral dissertation as a book

Teach in UGC recognised colleges in your free time

Prototype and pilot your ideas with no-code platforms

Protect your ideas with solid IPs in 155 countries

Pitch your ideas to real VCs with chequebooks

Accredited by top Swiss, British & US agencies

Who should pursue doctoral studies?

When you are at least 10 years into your career - that’s when most of our aspirants decide to pursue a doctorate - but anytime you find yourself asking “what’s next” even after years of working - it’s the right time for a doctorate.

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Your DBA Instructors

10

Instructors

5

Industry Experts

Global Executive DBA from SSBM Syllabus

Industry-relevant curriculum taught by leading faculty & industry experts using videos, case studies, hands-on projects and live online sessions

75+

Nationalities network

1:1

Thesis Supervision

19

& many more

How does upGrad support you throughout the program?

Industry Mentors

    Expert Guidance: Mentors & TAs + personalized feedback

    Dedicated Support: 24/7 via email & web chat

Make new connections with On-campus immersions

Gain global insights through faculty workshops, industry visits, and cultural experiences while exploring iconic landmarks and networking with peers at SSBM, Geneva.

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Earn a Prestigious DBA Degree from SSBM

Same Doctorate as On Campus

Receive the same world-class education and global recognition as on-campus doctorates without the need to relocate.

Accredited by top Swiss, British and American agencies

SSBM has been accredited by the prestigious EdQua, BAC & ACBSP for exceptional business education.

NSDC Certified & Recognised in India

Upon completion of this Doctorate program you shall be awarded with an additional Certification from NSDC, recognised by the Indian Ministry of Skill Development.

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Government-Recognized Certification

Learners will receive an NSDC certification upon completion that is nationally recognized and aligned with industry standards and enhancing employability

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NSDC

These courses are designed to build practical, in-demand skills for specific industries, bridging the gap between education and employment.

SSBM Doctor of Business Administration Fees

36 Months
Starting at
INR 18,125/month
Totally INR 7,50,000*No tax applicable

Inclusions

upGrad Learning portal access
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SSBM DBA Course Eligibility and Admissions

Take a deep breath – it's easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps:

Eligibility

Bachelor's Degree with minimum 5 years of experience or Master's degree 

What are the Skills You Will Acquire in this Doctor of Business Administration from SSBM Course?

Enrolling in the SSBM Doctor of Business Administration will provide you with a diversified set of advanced skills essential for leadership and strategic decision-making. These skills are designed to prepare you for top-tier leadership roles and to drive innovation within your organization:

Key skills you will gain after the DBA Course from SSBM:

  • Strategic Management Expertise: Gain insights into high-level decision-making processes and strategic planning.
  • Advanced Research Abilities: Develop the capability to conduct independent, original research, enabling you to address complex business challenges.
  • Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Enhance your ability to analyze complex situations and work on effective solutions.
  • Leadership and Organizational Behavior: Understand the dynamics of leading diverse teams and managing organizational change.
  • Global Business Acumen: Acquire knowledge of international markets and cross-cultural management practices.

How is this SSBM Executive DBA different from a PhD?

The Executive Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) at SSBM Geneva is different from a traditional PhD in several key areas. While both are doctoral-level qualifications, they serve different purposes, audiences, and career goals. Here is how an executive DBA differs from a PhD:

Differentiating Aspect

SSBM Executive DBA (via upGrad)

Traditional PhD Program

Target Audience

Senior professionals, business leaders, and consultants seeking practical application of research in business environments.

Academics and researchers are aiming for scholarly careers and theoretical contributions.

Approach to Study

Focused on solving real-world business problems through applied research.

Focused on drawing new conclusions and new knowledge.

Time Commitment

Flexible, part-time structure. Can be completed in 3 years.

Full-time engagement is required, which often lasts 4 to years.

Curriculum Structure

Industry-relevant curriculum with case studies, thesis, and one-on-one mentorship. Offers 19+ specialization options.

Theory-based curriculum with a lesser scope of industry integration or practical application

Accreditation

Accredited by ACBSP, CHEA, and BAC and EduQua certified. Recognized globally and designed to meet international business education standards.

Academic accreditation, focused on institutional research output and academic contribution.

Career Trajectory

Suited for senior management, consulting, entrepreneurship, or board-level roles.

More aligned with careers in academia, research, or policy-making.

FAQs on Executive DBA from SSBM Program

1What specializations can I choose in the SSBM Doctor of Business Administration?

The SSBM Doctor of Business Administration lets you pick from 19+ specializations so you can focus on what matters most to your career. Options include Global & International Management, Cybersecurity Management, HR, Tax Management, Finance & Banking, Marketing, Operations, Strategic Management, Entrepreneurship, IT Management, Energy, Healthcare, Data Science, Machine Learning, International Business Leadership, Global Supply Chain, Accounting, AML Compliance, and many more.

2Is the SSBM Doctor of Business Administration fully online and flexible?

Yes, the SSBM Doctor of Business Administration is delivered in an online format (or partly blended, depending on the specialization). It’s designed to fit around your job and life, so learning is flexible. You can access materials online, do project work, and manage your dissertation work with support remotely. 

3What kind of faculty support and research resources do you get in the SSBM DBA?

When you enroll in the SSBM Doctor of Business Administration, you’ll get 1:1 thesis supervision by experienced professors and faculty who have worked with many businesses. There are strong industry collaborations (70+ industry partners), and the program gives you networking, mentor feedback, and help with your research proposal and dissertation.

4What are the benefits of doing the SSBM Doctor of Business Administration for my career?

The SSBM Doctor of Business Administration can help you reach top leadership roles such as CFO, CEO, or senior executive. Because it blends research and real-world business challenges, you’ll learn skills in data analytics, strategic thinking, and leadership. Also, the specialization and industry advisory board certifications give you credibility and help you stand out. 

5How much do I pay to block my seat?

To block your seat for the DBA from SSBM, you need to pay INR 25,000. This confirms your enrollment and gives you access to the program’s course materials.

6Are EMI options available?

Yes, please check our "Fees" section for flexible EMI options.

7What is the programme fee?

The program fee for the Executive doctor of business administration course duration from SSBM Programme is:
Without Immersion: INR 7,50,000 with no tax applicable*
With Immersion: INR 10,50,000 with no tax applicable*

8What is the refund policy for this programme?

1. You can claim a refund for the amount paid towards the SSBM Executive doctor of business administration eligibility program at any time before the Program Start Date by visiting www.upgrad.com and submitting your refund form via the "My Application" section under your profile. You can request your Admissions Counselor to help you apply and withdraw for a refund by emailing them with the reasons listed. A processing fee of INR 10,000 will be levied. No refund is permitted once the batch starts.

2. Student must pay the full fee within seven (7) days of payment of caution amount or Batch Start Date, whichever is earlier. Otherwise, the admission letter will be rescinded.

3. If the university selection process extends beyond the Batch Start Date, you will be provided a provisional admission to the Executive dba courses from SSBM. If your candidature is rejected, you will be provided a refund of the amount paid towards the Programme fee without any applicable deduction.

4. Per point no. 1 of the refund policy, a request for a refund must be sent via e-mail using the prescribed refund request form. The refund will be processed within 30 working days of submitting the duly signed refund form after being duly approved by the Academic Committee.

9Which banks allow using 0% Credit card EMI or Credit card EMI?

No-cost EMI is available on credit cards from all major banks (American Express, Bank of Baroda, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, IndusInd Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, RBL Bank, Standard Chartered, Axis Bank, Yes Bank, State Bank of India, CITIBANK and HSBC)

10Is there any minimum transaction limit?

Yes. INR 50,000 is the minimum.

11Standard Chartered Bank offers 18 or 24 months No Cost EMI ?

No. ONLY 12 months is available, irrespective of the global Executive doctor of business administration from SSBM Program enrolled

12Will I have to pay any extra amount for EMI transaction?

If you are availing 0% credit card EMI, upGrad will not charge processing fees or down payment for these transactions. Your bank may levy GST or other taxes on the interest component of the EMI.

13Are there any fees or down payment?

Certain banks charge nominal processing fees between INR 99 - 500 on 0% Credit Card EMI transactions. If charged, it will be billed in the first repayment installment.

14Can I use my International credit card for 0% credit EMI or Credit Card EMI?

Only the Indian bank credit cards can be used. But you can pay the amount using the credit card option in one shot/part payments, and later, you can convert it into EMI from your respective bank. The tenures and interest charged will depend on your bank. upGrad will not charge processing fees or down payment for these transactions; this will be between you and your bank.

15Are there any charges in case I opt for cancellation/refund from the course after paying balance with no cost EMI ?

Yes, there will be additional charges to the extent of interest paid by the upGrad to the bank; you will be refunded only the principal amount, i.e. the amount deducted/blocked from your card. This deduction will be in addition to the amount mentioned in the refund policy shared with your offer letter.

16Can I Pay Using Multiple Credit Cards ?

Multiple cards can be used to complete the payments using the part payment option. Make sure to inform the learner the minimum transaction is INR 50,000 to opt for 0% CC EMI, e.g., the amount to be paid is 1,50,000. You can pay using 2 credit cards. Example :
HDFC Card – Part payment – INR 1,00,000
ICICI Card – Part payment – INR 50,000

17How can I opt for Credit card EMI if my bank is not listed in the 0% Credit card EMI or Credit card EMI?

You can pay the amount using the Credit card option in one shot/part payments, and later, you can convert it into EMI from your respective bank. The tenures and interest charged will depend on your bank. upGrad will not charge any processing fees or down payment for these transactions.

18Why is the entire amount blocked on my credit card?

Initially your bank will block the entire amount from your available purchase limit and from your next billing cycle, you will be charged the EMI amount. As you start paying your EMI, your credit limit will be released accordingly. For example, if you have made a payment of ₹100000 on 6-months EMI and your credit limit is ₹200,000 then initially your bank will block your credit limit by ₹100000. After payment of your first month EMI of Rs.15000, the blocked amount will come down to ₹85000.

19Why is interest getting charged on No Cost EMI?

Your bank will charge you interest. However, this interest charge has been provided as an upfront discount at your payment, effectively giving you the benefit of a No-cost EMI. The total amount paid to the bank during the entire EMI tenure will equal the amount paid to upGrad.

E.g. Amount payable to upGrad: INR 4,05,000
Let's say the amount deducted during the transaction is INR 3,79,850 (Principal amount). The Bank charges interest of 12-15% per annum on INR 3,79,850
[Note: Interest factor is reducing rate and not Flat rate]
EMI AMOUNT = INR 33,750 x 12 = INR 4,05,000
Effectively, you have taken a loan of INR 3,79,850 instead of INR 4,05,000

20What will I learn in the SSBM Doctor of Business Administration Course?

The SSBM Doctor of Business Administration teaches you advanced business strategy, research skills, and leadership thinking. You’ll learn to solve complex business problems, use data to make decisions, and create impactful strategies for your organization.

21What tools and research methods will I master in the SSBM DBA?

In the Swiss School of Business and Management DBA, you’ll get hands-on experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods, data analysis tools, and case-based learning. This helps you conduct original research, identify trends, and make informed business decisions. 

22 Does the Swiss School of Business and Management DBA focus on leadership and strategic skills

Yes, leadership is a key part of the SSBM Doctor of Business Administration. You’ll learn to lead diverse teams, manage organizational change, and think strategically to address real-world challenges in business. 

23How is the SSBM DBA curriculum designed for working professionals?

The SSBM DBA is fully online and flexible, so you can balance your studies with work. The program uses project-based learning, live mentorship, and guided dissertation work to make sure you apply what you learn to real business scenarios. 

24Will I work on a dissertation in the SSBM Doctor of Business Administration?

Yes, a major part of the DBA is your dissertation. You’ll research a topic that matters to your career and industry, and with SSBM’s faculty support, you’ll produce work that can create real impact in your field. 

25What career roles can I pursue after completing the SSBM Doctor of Business Administration?

After earning your SSBM DBA, you can aim for senior leadership roles like Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Operating Officer (COO), Director of AI & Emerging Tech, Management Consultant, or Vice President of Digital Transformation. 

26What salary range can I expect after completing the SSBM DBA?

Below is the average salary of the top five job roles in India after completing DBA course

  • Chief Executive Officer (CEO): upto ₹1Cr
  • Chief Financial Officer (CFO): upto ₹1Cr
  • Chief Operating Officer (COO): upto ₹1Cr
  • Management Consultant: upto ₹30L
  • Human Resources Director: upto ₹65L

27 How does the Swiss School of Business and Management DBA help me grow in my current career?

The SSBM Doctor of Business Administration is designed for working professionals, so it builds on your experience. It equips you with strategic, research, and leadership skills that can accelerate promotions and help you transition into top-level management roles. 

28 Does the SSBM DBA provide networking opportunities?

Yes! With SSBM’s global alumni network and industry connections, you get access to like-minded professionals, mentors, and experts. This network can open doors to board-level roles, consulting projects, and global career opportunities. 

29Who is this programme for?

It's a part-time Executive doctor of business administration course from SSBM program for working professionals looking to transition into the C-suite and senior management professionals looking to become experts in their domain of choice. 

30What is the minimum eligibility for this programme?

To enroll in the Doctor of Business Administration from SSBM, you need a Bachelor's degree with at least 5 years of work experience or a Master’s degree. This ensures you have the academic background and professional experience to succeed in this advanced executive program.  

31What is the admission process?

The admission process for the Doctor of Business Administration from SSBM is simple and straightforward. First, complete the application form with your academic and career details. Next, the admissions committee reviews your profile, and if selected, you receive an offer letter. Finally, confirm your seat with the payment, get access to course materials, and start your journey toward advanced business expertise. 

 

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Disclaimer

  1. The above statistics depend on various factors and individual results may vary. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

  2. The student assumes full responsibility for all expenses associated with visas, travel, & related costs. upGrad does not .