Research - DBA
Doctorate of Business Administration
A flexible doctoral programme that gives experienced professionals the freedom to pursue their own research ambitions, develop recognised expertise, and earn an internationally accredited doctorate without interrupting their career.
Accredited and internationally recognisedFor whom
- Experienced professionals, executives, consultants, entrepreneurs, and specialists seeking doctoral-level expertise.
Duration
- 24 months (possibility to extend twice for 12 months)
Available formats
- In-presence
- Distance learning with personalised supervision
Location
- Geneva, Switzerland
Start date
- Flexible
Program highlights
Choose the research topic that matters most to you
Benefit from monthly one-to-one coaching and supervision
Connect academic research with real business challenges
Conduct your doctorate in French or English
Study where you are. Progress wherever your career takes you.
Earn an internationally US-accredited DBA degree
About this program
This programme is designed for experienced professionals who want to go beyond management practice and contribute new knowledge to their field. It is for leaders, entrepreneurs, consultants, and specialists who are ready to challenge assumptions, investigate complex business questions, and develop recognised expertise through research.
The DBA is designed to be completed alongside a professional career. Delivered primarily at a distance, it combines flexible research work with structured academic milestones and regular supervision, allowing participants to pursue doctoral studies from anywhere in the world.
Participants typically hold a Master's degree or equivalent qualification and bring significant professional experience. They come from a wide range of industries but share a common ambition: to deepen their expertise, strengthen their credibility, and produce research with real-world relevance.
The DBA is designed for professionals who want to go beyond expertise and become recognised contributors to their field. By combining academic rigour with professional relevance, you'll develop the ability to generate knowledge, challenge established thinking, and influence practice. Graduates strengthen their credibility, expand their professional impact, and position themselves as recognised experts, advisors, executives, researchers, or thought leaders.
I wasn't sure exactly what direction to take at first. What stood out to me at ESM was the flexibility to figure that out along the way. It helped me build confidence and make choices that actually fit me.
— Frank Jansen, Bachelor programme
How you learn
Before formal admission, candidates access a free preparatory programme designed to help them understand doctoral research, refine their research question, and prepare a research proposal. This stage ensures that participants start their doctorate with a clear project and realistic objectives.
Courses
Doctorate in Business Administration
About the course
Access the preparatory learning resources, define your research interests, explore the literature, and develop a research proposal. The phase concludes with the submission and evaluation of a research project before formal admission.
Download the brochure or talk to an advisor to get full pricing and details
Lecturers for this program
Our faculty combines academic expertise with active professional experience. This ensures that every course is directly connected to today's business reality.
Eric Vandenhoeck
Intervenant DBA
Dr. Jean-Paul Favre
Intervenant MBA - DBA Responsable académique DBA
Jan Erik Meidell
Intervenant Bachelor, MBA
Olivier Naray
Intervenant Bachelor
Jan Erik Meidell
Intervenant Bachelor, MBA
Diego Toubes
Intervenant Bachelor, MBA
Dr. Pierre Gallard
Intervenant DBA
Dr. Marc-André Repond
Intervenant DBA
Pricing & details
CHF 30,000 for the entire program
Early bird discount available — Apply before 30 June and receive 10% off the first year.
Financing options
- Monthly payments plans available
- Possibility of employer sponsorhip
- Personal financing options (on request)
We're happy to help you explore the best option.
What is included
- All course materials and resources
- Access to faculty and professional network
- Monthly one-to-one coaching
- Personalised thesis supervision
- Official diploma upon completion
Designed for immediate application in your work.
Frequently Asked Questions
This program is designed for graduates and early-career professionals who want to build a strong foundation in management and innovation. It's ideal if you're looking to deepen your knowledge, gain practical experience, and take the next step in your career.
Many of our programs offer flexible study formats, including part-time and intensive options, making it possible to balance study with professional commitments.
Admission requirements vary by program. Details can be found on each program page, or you can speak with an advisor for guidance.
Tuition fees depend on the program and study format. Visit the fees section of the program page or contact our admissions team for detailed information.
Most programs have multiple intakes throughout the year. Upcoming start dates can be found on the program page.
Simply complete the online application form. Once submitted, our admissions team will review your application and guide you through the next steps.
Admission requirements
Applicants should hold a Master's degree, MBA, or an equivalent postgraduate qualification. The DBA is designed for experienced professionals who have already completed graduate-level studies and wish to take the next step by conducting original research in management and business.
The programme is intended for professionals with significant managerial, entrepreneurial, consulting, or specialist experience. Because DBA research is closely connected to real-world practice, candidates are expected to bring substantial professional insight and a clear area of interest for their future research.
More important than the topic itself is the ability to formulate meaningful questions. During the admissions process, candidates are invited to explore the area in which they wish to contribute to management knowledge and professional practice. The objective is not to arrive with a fully developed thesis project, but with a genuine desire to investigate a subject that matters.
September 14, 2026
Upcoming Open Day
Meet students, faculty, and future opportunities
Join our upcoming Open Day and learn more about the curriculum, student experience, career opportunities, and admissions process.
SIGN UP FOR OPEN DAYReady to start your journey?
Applying to ESM is simple and straightforward. Our team is here to guide you at every step, from your first question to the start of your program.
Step 1 — Get in touch
Speak with an advisor and explore if the program fits your goals.
Step 2 — Submit your application
The process is simple, and our team will support you every step of the way.
Step 3 — Start your program
Begin your program with clarity, structure, and ongoing support.
Are you ready to start your journey?
Or are you looking for a different direction? Explore all available programs here.
