Completing a Master’s degree in Business or any related or relevant discipline is one of the key eligibility criteria for admission to Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programs in top Singaporean universities. Additionally, most institutions require applicants to have at least 5 years of work experience in senior managerial positions, strong scores on standardised tests like the GRE/GMAT, and proof of English proficiency.
According to a report by EFMD Global, nearly 81% of the respondents in a survey considered DBA as a significant tool for career advancement and progression. This is further evidence of the strong demand for DBA graduates worldwide. Working professionals in Singapore are also keeping pace with the growing global demand and upskilling to the DBA qualification to improve their career prospects.
This blog helps explore the top online DBA courses offered by the world’s best universities, which professionals in Singapore can pursue from the comfort of their own homes. We take a close look at the specific DBA eligibility criteria for these universities to help you choose the one where you are a good fit.
Source: EFMD Global
DBA Eligibility Explained for Singapore Professionals
Learners in Singapore keen on pursuing a DBA degree must first check the eligibility criteria for the program they wish to apply for. Every university offering the course has its specific eligibility criteria. Hence, it is critical to check the requirements for each institution at the time of application.
The table below shares the key DBA course eligibility requirements for some top DBA programs offered for Singapore working professionals:
| DBA Course | University | Eligibility Criteria |
| Doctor of Business Administration | Golden Gate University | Bachelor’s degree with over 5 years of work experience, or Master’s degree |
| Dual Degree MBA and DBA | Edgewood University | Bachelor’s degree or equivalent |
| Doctorate of Business Administration | ESGCI | Bachelor’s degree with over 3 years of work experience Master’s degree (or equivalent)Admission of applicants with a Diploma may be on a case-by-case basis, depending on work experience |
| Doctor of Business Administration | Rushford Business School | Bachelor’s degree with 3 years’ work experienceMaster’s degree (or equivalent) |
Source: upGrad
Academic Qualifications Required
While each institution may have its specific requirements for academic credentials of the applicant, most universities offering DBA programs accept some familiar educational qualifications. To know your eligibility for DBA courses, it is crucial to check the exact academic qualifications that you must have completed to pursue the program.
Professional Experience Criteria
In addition to the academic requirements, most institutions offering DBA programs for students define work experience as a prerequisite. This is because the course is ideal for professionals aspiring to take the next big leap in their careers to senior leadership roles.
Language Proficiency and Test Scores
Students in Singapore pursuing DBA courses are also required to demonstrate strong proficiency in the English language. This is generally mandatory for all international students pursuing study programs from top global universities. Tests such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL are widely accepted in many countries as proof of English proficiency.
GMAT or GRE test scores may be required in some cases and may be waived in others, depending on the candidate’s other academic credentials or work experience.
Research Proposal and SOP
As part of the key documents to be submitted during the DBA application process, the Research Proposal and Statement of Purpose (SOP) are both crucial documents. They highlight the genuine intent of the applicant in pursuing the program and their potential for extensive research in the subject they want to pursue a DBA in.
Also read: How to Choose a DBA Research Topic That Adds Real Business Value
Other Documents and Recommendations
Some universities may ask for specific documents as part of the DBA eligibility criteria. Make sure to research these and check with the institution at the time of applying.
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR): One of the requisites at most universities for DBA programs, these are referrals provided by the applicant’s academic or professional mentor, highlighting the learner’s skills and potential in leadership, aptitude for research, and educational achievements.
- Updated resume: You may be required to submit the latest copy of your Curriculum Vitae or CV, too. It should include a summary of all your achievements (academic and professional) so far.
Also Read: Salary Expectations After Completing a DBA in Singapore
Why Eligibility Standards Matter in DBA Programs
While each university offering a DBA program may define its own criteria for eligibility, all institutions set some commonly accepted standards for applicants. By checking these criteria of eligibility for DBA programs, learners can get a fair idea of what the university is looking for in the ideal applicant and whether or not they meet those requirements.
- Academic strength: This is one of the most vital requirements for nearly all DBA programs. It is crucial to demonstrate a strong educational background with the proper foundational knowledge in the field of study that you wish to pursue extensive research in through a DBA.
- Professional experience: A considerable amount of work experience is generally mandated for all applicants to DBA programs. Since the course is designed to enable learners to move up the career ladder to advanced managerial or leadership roles, they must bring with them significant work experience in the area.
- Strong aptitude for research: Obtaining a doctoral degree requires candidates to showcase a strong potential for extensive research in the subject that they are pursuing. This also requires you to have keen analytical and critical thinking abilities to be able to make valuable contributions to the field.
Also read: Career Paths in Singapore After Your DBA Degree
Advancing Careers with a DBA Through upGrad
Take the next big leap in your career without disturbing your current professional responsibilities with an affordable online DBA program through upGrad. One of the most popular e-learning platforms today, upGrad facilitates a variety of DBA courses by the finest international universities.
Browse our best DBA picks, check the eligibility criteria, and apply today to take the first big step to becoming a business professional:
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FAQs on DBA Eligibility in Singapore
Ans: These may vary from one university to another; however, most programs require completion of a Master’s degree in a relevant or related field of study. In some cases, a Bachelor’s is also accepted with significant work experience.
Ans: Yes, since a DBA is a doctoral degree, it entitles its holder to take the Dr. title upon completion of the course.
Ans: Most programs require applicants to have at least 5-10 years of experience, preferably in managerial or leadership positions, to be considered fit for a DBA.
Ans: No, standardised test scores are not mandatory for admission to all DBA programs. Only some institutions may have that preference.
Ans: Submitting a research proposal is a crucial part of the DBA application process. It is a vital tool for assessing the applicant’s potential for extensive research.
