Athabasca University

What you'll study

Coursework and learning are sequenced and delivered as online grouped study with defined start and end dates, complemented by annual onsite research workshops during the first three years. Core courses listed on the program page include:

• DDBA 000 – DBA Orientation
• DDBA 800 – Conceptual Foundations of Organizational Research
• DDBA 801 – Current Research
• DDBA 802 – Management Research in Practice
• DDBA 803 – Quantitative Research Methods
• DDBA 804 – Qualitative Research Methods
• DDBA 805 – Advanced Readings
• DDBA 806 – Dissertation Proposal
• DDBA 807 – Candidacy Exam
• DDBA 001 – Onsite Research Workshop Yr. 2
• DDBA 002 – Onsite Research Workshop Yr. 3

After completing coursework and proposals, students proceed to the dissertation phase; program continuity requires ongoing program fee payments every six months until the dissertation is complete.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold an MBA or an equivalent master’s degree and have at least five years of significant management and/or professional work experience. New students must complete the full program through Athabasca University; transfer credit is evaluated individually. There is one annual intake with a March application deadline for a September start.

Career prospects

The DBA targets experienced managers and senior leaders in business, government or not-for-profit sectors who want to deepen industry-relevant knowledge and apply research directly to organizational challenges. It is also suitable for professionals working in academic environments who wish to upgrade research skills and credentials for teaching, applied scholarship, or leadership roles that require advanced management expertise.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Students are advised to apply for financial assistance at least three months before course registration deadlines; the program page directs applicants to contact fbgradenrol@athabascau.ca for help with graduate business funding. The university notes Canadian Indigenous graduate students are eligible for a 10% tuition reduction on the tuition portion of graduate course costs starting Sep. 1, 2026. Specific awards or scholarships are not listed on the program page.