Author: Dr. Tali Režun, COTRUGLI Business School
Why a DBA Is More Than a Degree: Your Path to Thought Leadership Starts Here
A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious qualifications in both academic and professional spheres. Recognized across the globe, it serves as a hallmark of advanced research capability, executive leadership, and expertise in business strategy and transformation.
Building on the MBA: What Makes the DBA Different?
Unlike the MBA, which focuses on practical business skills, the DBA is designed specifically for seasoned professionals and senior executives who aspire to solve complex, real-world business challenges through rigorous, applied research.
As Vice Dean at COTRUGLI Business School and author of The DBA Dissertation Guidebook: The Steps Toward Writing Your DBA Masterpiece (link), I invite you to explore the transformative DBA journey—a process that reshapes your perspective and propels your career to new heights.
The Dissertation: The Heart of the DBA Journey
The journey begins with a concise yet powerful dissertation proposal, typically capped at 40 pages. This foundational document outlines your research problem, objectives, and methodology. More than just an academic exercise, your proposal is your opportunity to demonstrate how your work will contribute original insight to business theory or practice.
Once approved, you’ll begin writing your dissertation, generally structured into four or five cohesive chapters:
- Chapter One introduces the problem and sets the stage.
- Chapter Two presents a thorough literature review grounded in credible academic sources.
- Chapter Three details the chosen methodology.
- Chapter Four delivers findings and connects them to real-world implications.
- (Optional) Chapter Five summarizes key insights and recommends future research.
Each chapter builds logically on the previous, resulting in a final work that both reflects and validates your expertise.
Your Step-by-Step Guide: Turning Complexity Into Clarity
To simplify this often-daunting process, the guidebook breaks down each phase into manageable, actionable steps.
You’ll begin by writing a compelling Chapter One to capture interest and frame your research. Next, in Chapter Two, you’ll conduct a comprehensive literature review using reputable sources like JSTOR, SAGE Journals, or Google Scholar. This helps anchor your study in current and credible academic thought.
Moving forward, Chapter Three guides you in selecting a research methodology that aligns with your objectives—be it narrative, phenomenological, or experimental—drawing from well-known frameworks by experts such as Creswell.
Finally, Chapter Four translates your findings into practical applications, offering clear recommendations for business leaders, researchers, and policymakers, while identifying areas for continued exploration.
How Long Does a DBA Take—and What Tools Can Help?
Typically, the DBA journey spans around four years, although it can be completed in less time with exceptional focus and commitment. Fortunately, modern technology can significantly streamline your efforts. AI-driven research tools like Google Notebook, and reference management apps like Drawboard PDF or Mendeley, can help you organize your literature, manage citations, and reduce dependency on printed materials.
Your work concludes with an oral dissertation defense—an opportunity to present your research findings to an academic committee and secure final approval.
Why Pursue a DBA? The Return Is Personal and Professional
While the DBA confers undeniable academic prestige, it also offers something deeper: a journey of personal transformation and intellectual maturity. Reflecting on my own experience while writing The DBA Dissertation Guidebook, I can say with certainty that the process:
- Sharpened my strategic thinking
- Cultivated resilience and patience
- Elevated my academic and professional confidence
In the end, earning a DBA equips you to lead with authority, consult at a high level, and make impactful contributions to both your organization and the broader global business community.
Ready to Begin Your DBA Journey?
Whether your goal is to drive innovation, secure a boardroom seat, or contribute to global business knowledge, a DBA is a powerful long-term investment in your future.
Take the first step by downloading The DBA Dissertation Guidebook—available now on ResearchGate. This practical resource is your roadmap to writing a dissertation that stands out for its clarity, rigor, and relevance.
