Take the first DBA in the region
The PolyU DBA, launched in 1996, is the region’s first professional and academic doctorate in business and management. The success of the programme is further demonstrated with the extension and launch of the Doctor of Management (DMgt) programme on the Chinese mainland in 2004.
Achieve an intellectual transformation
This programme appeals to those who are looking for a challenge and is designed for business professionals who wish to take their business education to the highest level. It is built on engaged scholarship and evidence-based management to enable students to solve practical issues and complex business problems.
Flexible Learning Approach
The programme is launching a full-time stream in 2022, allowing students to complete a DBA degree full-time in 2 years. Alternatively, students are able to complete the programme in 3 years part-time.
Learn in a supportive environment
Study alongside diverse and high calibre achievers from a range of industries and be inspired by the world-class faculty. Gain access to the latest research through different activities and dedicated research centres. Obtain insights from guest speakers, world-class scholars and renowned business leaders.
Become part of an elite network
A solid and extensive network of over 560 alumni and 100 students of DBA, DMgt and DFinTech programmes from diverse backgrounds, cultures, professions, disciplines, industries and countries.
International Collaboration
To enhance the international dimension and academic vigour of PolyU DBA, collaborations have been established with the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Switzerland and The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) in London U.K.
IMD's open executive education programmes have been ranked first in the world by the Financial Times for the last nine years in a row (2012-2020).
LSE has been ranked top in Europe, and second in the world, in social sciences and management subjects for the ninth consecutive year in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2021.
Programme Aims
This programme aims to educate senior executives to be the “scholar-leaders”, who are able to apply research findings in solving the real-world management problems. It has been designed to integrate academic study and management practice in a way which will form a significant part of an individual’s business career.
On completion of the programme, students will be able to advance their knowledge, skills and intellectual abilities as defined in the broad learning outcomes which are underpinned by specific learning objectives below:
General Business Knowledge
Learning Objective: Broaden, update and deepen students’ knowledge of business administration in general with an appreciation of digital transformation in the business world.
Specialist Knowledge
Learning Objective: Acquire in-depth knowledge of a specialist area including some basic understanding of the impacts from digital technology.
Applied Research
Learning Objective: Sharpen students' ability to conduct original applied research and ethical awareness in business administration.
Study Timeline
1 Compulsory Subject + 2 Core Subjects +
5 Elective Subjects + 2 DBA Residentials + a DBA Thesis
* Subject to factors such as staff availability, student enrolment, programme resources and so on, not all subjects will be offered. And, registration is subject to the availability of quota.
Entrance Requirements
Applying for the PolyU Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programme
A Master's degree, preferably in a business-related area; and
Substantial managerial experience (at least 8 years) at a senior level; or
Candidates in senior management positions possessing a recognized first degree and membership of a recognized professional body may also be considered on a case-by-case basis.
If you are not a native speaker of English, and your Master's degree or equivalent qualification is awarded by institutions where the medium of instruction is not English, you are expected to fulfil the University's minimum English language requirement for admission purpose.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.
