Heriot-Watt University

What you'll study

The DBA is an applied research degree that combines taught research training with a substantial independent research project. Early stages typically cover advanced research methods (both qualitative and quantitative), research design, ethical practice, and approaches to literature review and theory development. Modules or workshop themes commonly include:

• Research methods and statistics for business
• Designing and managing applied research
• Knowledge exchange, impact and implementation
• Leadership, strategy and organisational change
• Innovation, entrepreneurship and digital transformation
• Specialist topics such as international business, finance, marketing, operations or sustainability, depending on supervision and candidate interests

After the taught component, candidates progress to a supervised doctoral research phase to produce a thesis that addresses a real-world problem, demonstrating original contribution to practice and knowledge. Supervision is provided by experienced academics from Heriot‑Watt Business School and associated research centres, and delivery is commonly offered in flexible formats to accommodate working professionals, including blended on-campus workshops and online supervision.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant master’s degree (for example an MBA or other postgraduate qualification) or equivalent professional qualifications and experience. Substantial senior management or professional experience is usually required, as the DBA is designed for experienced practitioners. Typical application materials include a CV, academic transcripts, a research proposal or statement of research interests, and references.

Applicants whose first language is not English will be asked to demonstrate proficiency through an approved English language qualification or equivalent evidence. All applications are assessed on academic background, professional experience, suitability of the research proposal and availability of appropriate supervisory support.

Career prospects

Graduates of the DBA typically move into or advance within senior leadership and strategic roles across the public, private and third sectors. Common career trajectories include:

• Executive and board-level management positions where evidence-based strategic decision-making is required
• Senior consultancy roles focused on organisational transformation, strategy or innovation
• Research and teaching roles in universities, business schools or executive education units
• Policy advisory positions in government agencies, think-tanks or international organisations
• Entrepreneurship and leadership of knowledge-intensive start-ups or scale-ups

Because the DBA emphasises applied impact, many graduates also continue to publish practitioner-oriented outputs, contribute to industry standards, or lead change projects that directly benefit their organisations.

Why study at Heriot-Watt University

Heriot‑Watt Business School is known for its strong emphasis on research excellence and industry engagement. The university operates across multiple campuses, providing international reach and links with employers and professional networks. DBA candidates benefit from experienced supervisory teams drawn from research centres with expertise in strategy, entrepreneurship, finance, sustainability and technology management.

The programme is structured to suit working professionals, offering flexible delivery modes, cohort-based workshops for peer learning, and focused support for knowledge exchange and impact. Heriot‑Watt’s applied research culture and connections with industry mean DBA projects are well placed to deliver actionable insights and enhance career development for senior practitioners.