Do You Need to Write a Dissertation for a DBA in Singapore? Everything Explained

A DBA degree is not equivalent to a PhD degree. While the former focuses on the deployment of applied research to solve real-world business challenges, the latter involves theoretical research that facilitates academic contributions. 

However, both the PhD and DBA programs in Singapore require a dissertation or equivalent. 

Read on to find out everything about DBA Dissertation in Singapore, the top colleges offering DBA degrees in the country, their dissertation requirements, and much more.

What Is A DBA Dissertation?

In Singapore, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) dissertation is an extensive, independent, and original applied research project that constitutes the final requirement for a DBA degree. 

These dissertations focus on applying existing business research methods and theories to solve complex real-world management and business problems. They differ from Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program dissertations, which usually aim to develop new theoretical knowledge.

The key features of these dissertations are: 

• Applied Research Focus 
• Original Contribution
• Length and Structure 
• Guidance and Supervision 
• Oral Defense (Viva Voce)
• Industry Relevance 

Requirements 

If you want to pursue a DBA and complete a dissertation in Singapore, you will generally need the following:

• A Master’s Degree in a Business-Related Field
• Significant Managerial and Professional Experience 
• Strong Research Proposal That Outlines the Intended Research Methodology and Topic

DBA Dissertation Requirements in Singapore: What Professionals Should Know

Most of the colleges offering a DBA degree in Singapore require you to submit a dissertation comprising a complete coursework, a qualifying examination, and an original applied research project reflecting independent contribution to business and management. However, the dissertation requirements may vary slightly across colleges. 

Here is a quick look: 

Program Type	Requirement	Focus	Timeframe
Traditional DBA (Research-Oriented)	A dissertation is mandatory	Academic research and theoretical insights	3-5 years
Executive DBA (Applied Focus)	Applied project or capstone	Real-world problem-solving related to businesses	2-3 years
Hybrid DBA	Dissertation or project (Choice)	Balanced mix of academic and applied research	3-4 years

Is a Dissertation Mandatory for All DBA Programs?

Though a dissertation is an essential component of DBA programmes in general, it is not mandatory for all courses. Most of the legitimate programs, however, treat a dissertation as a core component since it involves the use of applied research to solve real-world business challenges. 

So, depending on the type of DBA programme or college, you can choose between these three options: 

• Mandatory dissertation
• Applied project or capstone
• Dissertation or project

What Does a DBA Dissertation Typically Involve?

Have you ever gone through a sample DBA dissertation? Here is a look at the key components of a typical thesis: 

• Applied research involves developing solutions to real-world business problems.
• Research findings are shaping better decision-making, business strategy, and public policy. 
• 80-100 pages long piece of work highlighting the student’s ability to conduct independent research for better business outcomes. 

How DBA Dissertations Differ from PhD Thesis

A DBA dissertation typically involves the application of research to contribute to the practical solution of real-world business problems. At the same time, a PhD thesis consists of a contribution to the theoretical knowledge base through abstract research. Here’s a quick look at the key differences between the two: 

• A DBA dissertation involves applied research to address real-world business problems, whereas a PhD thesis focuses on theoretical research aimed at advancing a particular field of knowledge. 

• The purpose of a DBA dissertation is to inform improved strategic insights and business decisions, while the purpose of a PhD thesis is to develop new theories to address gaps in a specific field of knowledge.

• A DBA programme is designed for working professionals looking to contribute to the corporate sector, while a PhD is intended for students looking to excel in academia. 

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

Support Available for Dissertation Writing

Are you looking forward to enrolling in a DBA programme? Typically, students are guided by dedicated supervisors throughout the dissertation writing process. 

• Make sure you’re researching colleges separately to find out about mentorship.
• Learn about the faculty leading their DBA programs.
• Reach out to ex and current students personally for reviews. 

Singapore-Specific Considerations

Top colleges offering online DBA programmes in Singapore usually require students to submit a dissertation. Look up individual college websites to find out about:

• Thesis supervision
• Specific skills acquired after the dissertation 
• The goal of the dissertation  

All About DBA Dissertation Submissions in Top Universities

Golden Gate University, Rushford Business School, and Edgewood University are among the top institutions offering DBA degrees online. All these universities have mandatory dissertation submission requirements in place. 

Here is a quick look at the relevant details: 

1. Doctor of Business Administration from Golden Gate University: 

• The DBA dissertation work constitutes 32 units of the total 56 units of the degree.
• You will get one-on-one thesis supervision.
• The specific skills acquired include quantitative and qualitative research. 
• The goal of this research is to yield impactful outcomes in the field of business and management. 

2. Doctor of Business Administration from Edgewood University: 

• The dissertation work is a key part of the entire DBA dissertation programme at Edgewood University. 
• It involves the use of applied research to solve real-world business problems. 
• Includes original thesis to facilitate the advent of practice and policy.
• Access quality support and mentorship throughout.

3. Doctor of Business Administration from ESGCI: 

• The dissertation is the final phase of the structured 3-year DBA program.
• Key milestones of the dissertation phase include dissertation approval, literature review, and draft methodology.
• Expect to receive one-on-one support. 
• Aimed at fortifying student expertise in the chosen area of business management. 

4. Doctor of Business Administration from Rushford Business School: 

• The key components of the DBA dissertation work at the Rushford Business School include practical research, oral defence, and a written component. 
• Equips students with advanced research skills.
• Suited to experienced professionals. 

Also Read: Salary Expectations After Completing a DBA in Singapore

Step-By-Step Dissertation Guidance

The following are the steps that you must follow to complete your dissertation in Singapore properly:

Step 1. Proposal and Preparation (Approximately 3-6 Months)

• Identifying a Relevant Business Problem
• Conducting Preliminary Research 
• Formulating Research Objectives and Questions
• Developing a Detailed Research Proposal 
• Seeking Committee Approval 
• Obtaining Ethics Approval 

Step 2. Writing and Research (Approximately 12-24 Months)

• Conducting an In-Depth Literature Review 
• Designing the Research Methodology 
• Analyzing and Collecting Data 
• Drafting Chapters

Step 3. Defense and Review (Approximately 2-3 Months)

• Revising with Supervisor Feedback
• Proofreading and Editing 
• Submitting the Final Document 
• Preparing for the Oral Defense or Viva Voce 
• Final Approval 

To be successful in these endeavors, you can follow these tips:

• Aligning Your Topic with Professional Goals 
• Time Management 
• Leveraging University Resources 
• Communicating Regularly

Choosing the Right Research Methodology for Your DBA Dissertation

While trying to select the proper research methodology for your DBA dissertation, you should focus on the following: 

• Nature of the Research Problem 
• Data Availability 
• Required Generalizability 
• Practical Constraints 

All these factors cover different aspects of a DBA dissertation. For example, the nature of the research problem helps you determine your goal. 

DBA students in Singapore typically choose from three major research approaches: qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods. 

You can follow these steps to make the right choice in this regard:

• Revisiting Your Research Questions
• Evaluating Data Needs 
• Consulting With Your Supervisor 
• Justifying Your Choice 

DBA Dissertation Word Count, Credit Hours, and Duration

• The word count of a dissertation in Singapore is between 40,000 and 70,000 words. This is usually less than a PhD thesis, which can be around 70,000–120,000 words or more. This reflects the focus of a DBA program on practice-based and applied research instead of purely theoretical contributions. 
• The DBA program takes 60-120 credit hours or units. In this, a dissertation takes up a substantial chunk of the time.  
• The duration of a dissertation program in Singapore is 1 to 2 years in the final phase. This includes the research, defense, and writing phase of the program.  

Sample DBA Dissertation Topics in Singapore

The following are some of the top dissertation topics for DBA programs in Singapore:

1. Technology and Digital Transformation 

• Adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Financial Services Sector of Singapore  
• Challenges of Digital Transformation in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) of Singapore 

2. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability 

• Impact of CSR Initiatives on Financial Performance and Brand Reputation in Singapore 
• Sustainable Supply Chain Management in Singapore’s Manufacturing Sector 

3. Organizational Behavior and Leadership

• Leadership Strategies for Managing Employee Engagement in Hybrid Work Environments
• Sustainable Supply Chain Management in the Manufacturing Sector of Singapore 

4. Innovation and Strategic Movement 

• Strategic Decision-Making in Agile Organizations in Singapore 
• Impact of Cultural Diversity on Team Performance in Multinational Corporations in Singapore 

Advancing Your Career with Flexible DBA Programs through upGrad

Are you a working professional looking forward to a meaningful career pivot? upGrad takes you a step closer to your dreams. If you’re currently mulling over a DBA degree from the top colleges, then get in touch with the mentors at upGrad for access to the best programs and quality mentorship. 

upGrad has tie-ups with the most reputed universities across the world, facilitating the following DBA programs: 

• Doctor of Business Administration (Golden Gate University) 
• Doctor of Business Administration (Rushford Business School)
• Doctor of Business Administration (ESGCI) 

Don’t forget to check out our other blogs for more tips and insights on building a successful career:

• DBA or PhD: Decoding the Distinctions for Your Doctoral Journey
• How To Choose The Right Online DBA Program In Singapore
• Doctor of Business Administration Eligibility in Top Universities
• What is the Cost of an Online DBA Program for Singapore
• Why Should You Apply For DBA In Singapore?

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