DBA – Doctorate in Business Administration
Presentation
The DBA in Sustainable Innovation Management is delivered jointly by ICN Business School and the Business Science Institute (BSI), Luxembourg. BSI is an independent institution that brings together international scholars with the aim of developing doctoral-level executive education. The BSI DBA programme is AMBA accredited and ranked #4 in the prestigious DUBAI RANKING of DBA (October 2020).
Graduates will receive both a university degree (“diplôme d’université”) of Doctor in Business Administration from Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) and the title of Executive Doctor in Business Administration from ICN & the Business Science Institute.
As an alumna of the ICN & BSI Executive DBA program, I found the experience to be both intellectually stimulating and professionally rewarding. The program provided a unique blend of academic rigour and practical business application, enabling me to strengthen my strategic thinking, research capabilities, and leadership skills. One of the greatest benefits was learning how to apply evidence-based research to complex business challenges, which has enhanced my effectiveness as an executive. The international faculty, diverse cohort, and global perspective enriched my understanding of business across industries and cultures. From a career standpoint, the DBA has strengthened my professional credibility, expanded my network of accomplished leaders, and created new opportunities. The program’s key strengths include its flexibility for working professionals, high-quality supervision, and focus on producing research with real-world impact.
ASCHERL Elizabeth
Head of Intercultural Communication Hub | Senior Trainer in Language and Communication Skills | DBA in Sustainable Innovation Management
As an alumna of the ICN & BSI Executive DBA program, I found the experience to be both intellectually stimulating and professionally rewarding. The program provided a unique blend of academic rigour and practical business application, enabling me to strengthen my strategic thinking, research capabilities, and leadership skills. One of the greatest benefits was learning how to apply evidence-based research to complex business challenges, which has enhanced my effectiveness as an executive. The international faculty, diverse cohort, and global perspective enriched my understanding of business across industries and cultures. From a career standpoint, the DBA has strengthened my professional credibility, expanded my network of accomplished leaders, and created new opportunities. The program’s key strengths include its flexibility for working professionals, high-quality supervision, and focus on producing research with real-world impact.
ASCHERL Elizabeth
Head of Intercultural Communication Hub | Senior Trainer in Language and Communication Skills | DBA in Sustainable Innovation Management
What is the difference between a PhD and a DBA? Hide answer Show answer
A PhD is a traditional, theory-based doctorate primarily intended for individuals pursuing a full-time career in academia. The DBA (Doctor in Business Administration) is a professional doctorate designed for working executives. Its purpose is to combine your real-world managerial experience with theoretical frameworks to produce “action-research”—applied science that delivers concrete solutions to contemporary business challenges.
Is the programme compatible with a demanding full-time job? Hide answer Show answer
Yes, absolutely. The programme is built specifically for this. The 100% online format allows you to balance your research hours with your professional life at your own pace. To prevent the isolation often associated with distance learning, you will receive one-on-one mentoring and personalized monthly feedback meetings with an experienced faculty member. You progress steadily without putting your career on hold.
How does the dual degree with Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) work? Hide answer Show answer
Depending on the option chosen upon enrollment, you can earn two complementary credentials:
- The Executive Doctor in Business Administration title, delivered jointly by ICN & BSI.
- The official British university degree of Doctor in Business Administration from Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU). The academic curriculum is fully integrated, but this international dual recognition maximizes your market value globally.
What level of English is required, and do I need an official test (TOEIC, TOEFL...)? Hide answer Show answer
A good standard of written and oral English is mandatory since the learning resources, coursework on sustainable innovation, and thesis drafting are conducted in English. However, no formal standardized test is required. Your language proficiency and readiness for the programme will be directly evaluated during your online admission interview.
How much are the tuition fees and what do they include? Hide answer Show answer
The fees cover the entire 3-to-4-year curriculum (access to the virtual platform, academic resources, data analysis software, and faculty supervision):
- ICN & BSI Track: €30,000
- Dual Degree Track (ICN & BSI + MMU): €37,500
Note: These fees are eligible for flexible payment plans and are frequently sponsored, partly or fully, by employers as part of strategic executive development.