Last chance: €4,000 Early Bird discount  on all MBA applications with deadline April 30, 2026
MBS Logo

PhD for Executives

Many executives and experienced professionals aspire to earn a doctorate – but hesitate due to the long study periods and career interruptions a traditional PhD often requires. The Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) at Munich Business School, offered in cooperation with Sheffield Hallam University, is a practical, part-time alternative designed for working professionals.

You continue your career without interruption, conduct research on a self-chosen topic directly related to your professional expertise, and benefit from the academic excellence of two renowned institutions – MBS is among the top 6% of business schools worldwide (AACSB-accredited).

Doctorate Without Career Break

Traditional PhD programs are often designed for recent master’s graduates with little or no work experience. But what if you have years of professional expertise, a successful career – and the ambition to earn a doctorate without stepping away from your job?

The Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) offers exactly that. Designed for professionals with at least five years of work experience (including three in a managerial role), this part-time program lets you combine full-time employment with doctoral-level research. Delivered jointly by Munich Business School and Sheffield Hallam University, the DBA combines academic rigor with practical relevance. You choose your research topic, benefit from structured modules for easy planning, and receive continuous guidance from an experienced, international faculty – leading to impactful projects in areas such as technology, marketing, finance, HR, and organizational behavior.

Why Choose the DBA at MBS?

Choosing the right doctoral program is about more than just earning a title – it’s about finding a format that matches your lifestyle, career ambitions, and research interests. At Munich Business School, we understand the demands of busy professionals. That’s why our DBA program is built for maximum flexibility, real-world relevance, and outstanding academic support. With our joint expertise and global network, we provide the perfect environment for doctoral research that not only advances your career but also creates real impact in the business world.

  1. Maximum Flexibility
    Part-time program over approximately 4 years – no career break. The modules are designed to fit your schedule, and research pauses are possible if needed.
  2. Research That Matters to You
    You choose your topic within the field of business and develop an independent, impactful research project.
  3. The Best of Two Universities
    Supervision by experts from both partner universities, access to extensive resources, and the benefits of an international network.

Program Structure

The DBA program is structured to meet two key objectives:

  • To provide you with a comprehensive understanding of contemporary business and management theory through taught modules.
  • To guide you through the process of developing and executing a doctoral research project in a staged, manageable way.

You will begin your DBA journey with three preparatory modules delivered in Munich and Sheffield. Upon successful completion, you will be awarded a Certificate in Business Research by Munich Business School. This certificate marks your entry into the second phase of the program at Sheffield Hallam University – the preparation and completion of your doctoral thesis.

Who Is This Program For?

The DBA at MBS is designed for senior executives, entrepreneurs, high-level consultants, and ambitious professionals who want to accelerate their careers without putting them on hold. It is the ideal choice if you aim to:

  • Position yourself as a recognized thought leader in your industry or area of expertise
  • Enhance your strategic influence and credibility through rigorous, practice-oriented research
  • Tackle complex business challenges with innovative, evidence-based solutions
  • Earn a doctoral degree while working full-time, balancing professional responsibilities with academic achievement
  • Boost your career trajectory by adding a globally recognized qualification to your profile
  • Expand your network by joining an exclusive community of senior professionals, academics, and business leaders
Are you interested in a DBA?

Global Recognition Through EDBAC Membership

Munich Business School is a proud member of the Executive DBA Council (EDBAC), an organization dedicated to advancing excellence in DBA programs worldwide. Through this network, our DBA candidates benefit from:

International Academic Standards

Our DBA program adheres to the highest international academic standards, keeping your research aligned with the latest global developments. This ensures your work is relevant, credible, and competitive worldwide.

Global Networking

You will connect with top academics and senior business leaders from around the globe. These relationships can spark valuable collaborations and open new professional opportunities.

Publication Opportunities

EDBAC’s academic journal offers a platform to publish your research, increasing its visibility in both academic and business circles. This positions you as a thought leader and enhances the impact of your work.

Learn more about the DBA-Program

Ready to explore how the DBA can elevate your career to the next level? On our DBA program page, you’ll find full details on entry requirements, program structure, and how to apply.
Whether you want to strengthen your thought leadership, expand your network, or address complex business challenges through research – the DBA at MBS gives you the framework, guidance, and international recognition to make it happen.

Keyfacts

Programm Start September
Language English
Studies Abroad Sheffield Hallam University (UK)
Duration 48 months
Format Part-Time
Final Degree Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Are you interested in a DBA?

Our university. Awarded and accredited.