What to Expect from a DBA Curriculum in Singapore: Courses, Research, and Industry Focus

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is the highest level of academic qualification suitable for experienced professionals who wish to enhance their career by focusing on business theories. It is considered similar to a PhD degree, but it is more focused on applying theories to real-world issues.

If you are interested in pursuing a DBA, ensure the program is globally recognised by employers with relevant accreditation. This blog will discuss the DBA curriculum- core subjects, specialisation options, career support services, and how upGrad facilitates these programs through its university partners.

Also read: Career Paths in Singapore After Your DBA Degree

Understanding the DBA Curriculum in Singapore

DBA is a mix of theoretical framework, along with strong research skills, which are focused on developing solutions to complex business issues. Singapore’s DBA curriculum is designed to meet the needs of a diverse job market and sharpen the leadership skills of professionals.

Core Courses in a DBA Program

Core courses in a DBA program cover foundational research subjects, advanced research topics, and leadership skills. Some of the subjects covered in this program are:

• Qualitative and Quantitative Data Collection
• Introduction to Doctoral Research
• Business Strategy and Innovation 

Research Methodology and Dissertation Requirements

Research and dissertation are two of the significant components of DBA in Singapore.  The dissertation requirements will vary depending on the university chosen. Some of the basic requirements are:

• The dissertation should be an original research work by the candidate.
• The research should be non-plagiarised and written by the candidate, not the AI.
• The research should be done in accordance with the Supervisor’s guidance and reviews.

Industry Relevance of the DBA Curriculum

The DBA curriculum of Singapore offers candidates the opportunity to choose specialisations that are relevant to the industry. The curriculum is regularly updated in consultation with industry experts. This research-based approach helps in bringing out innovative ideas. It helps in:

• Developing solutions for new business models and operational insufficiencies.
• Understanding how change can be implemented and managed in an organisation.
• Specialisations should offer industry-specific knowledge according to the latest developments in the industry.

Global Exposure and Networking Opportunities

Singapore is a global business hub with a diverse and multicultural team. It increases the chances of networking opportunities. DBA programs benefit the students by:

• Offering alumni meet-ups to build connections with well-settled alumni from around the globe.
• Offering the students the option of on-campus immersion in an international campus to make new friends.
• Organising dinners and conferences to develop industry-related skills.

Also Read: Salary Expectations After Completing a DBA in Singapore

Who Benefits the Most from the DBA Curriculum

The DBA curriculum is designed for working professionals to manage their careers along with their studies. Most of these programs are online, while some are offered in a hybrid format. It benefits:

• Senior executives who are seeking a higher management position that requires strategic and problem-solving skills.
• Entrepreneurs who wish to improve their business by enhancing research skills and understanding the latest market trends.
• Individuals seeking a position as an educator in a business school require extensive research skills and relevant experience.

Also read: DBA Research vs PhD Research: What’s the Difference?

Focus Areas in DBA Programs

If you are interested in pursuing a DBA in Singapore, the focus area or specialisation varies depending on the university. But all of this has one focus- to train graduates so that they can solve complex business issues in their industry.

Course	Focus	Relevance
Strategic Management	Leadership and strategy creation	Creating strategies that will benefit the organisation in the long term
Research methods	Quantitative and qualitative methods	Enable professionals for research
Data Analytics	Data interpretation	Helps the professionals in making decisions based on evidence and increasing the chances of success
Innovation and Digital Transformation	Business transformation and change	Preparing professionals for digital innovation

Some other specialisations offered on upGrad platforms are:

1. Finance: It covers topics such as  Corporate Finance, International Finance, and Financial Theory and Applications.

2. Marketing: It includes topics such as Marketing Management, Consumer Behaviour, and Digital Marketing.

3. Leadership and Strategy: It includes topics such as Leadership theory, Strategic Leadership, and Leading Complex Change.

Also Read: DBA Accreditation in Singapore

upGrad’s Facilitates DBA Programs for Singapore Learners

upGrad brings several online DBA programs from reputed universities that are suitable for working professionals. Enrolling in these courses ensures that you get quality education and career support services. Some of our best programs are:

1. Doctor of Business Administration in Emerging Technologies with a Concentration in Generative AI from Golden Gate University: This Doctoral Program can be completed in 36 months and is accredited by the WASC. Highlights of this program are:

• Immersions in Singapore, San Francisco, and India
• Modules with Generative AI
• Dedicated Thesis Supervisor

2. Dual Degree MBA and DBA from Edgewood University: You can earn this dual degree in 2.5 years. It has HLC accreditation. Highlights of this program are:

• Option of on-campus immersion
• Thesis Supervisor
• Two concentrations to choose from

3. Doctorate of Business Administration from ESGCI: This institute is accredited by the French Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation. The course can be completed in 36 months and offered in an online format along with an optional 5-day immersion in the Paris campus. Highlights of this course are:

• Workshops for the dissertation
• Live sessions
• Option to choose any specialisation

FAQs on DBA Curriculum in Singapore