DBA
January 16, 2026 2026-03-24 4:38DBA
DBA with Cosmoversity in partnership with University of Political and Economic Studies “C. Stere” (USPEE), Moldova
Embrace global business leadership
STARTS ON
Februrary 21, 2026
DURATION
3 years
Online + On Campus
ELIGIBILITY
Masters Degree
Online + On Campus
DBA Programme Overview
Advance your career. Solve real-world business challenges with practice-based research.
The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a professional doctorate designed for senior managers, executives, consultants, entrepreneurs, and policy professionals who seek to apply advanced research to real-world business and organisational challenges. Offered by Cosmoversity in academic partnership with the University of Political and Economic Studies “C. Stere”, the DBA integrates rigorous doctoral-level research with practice-based inquiry, enabling candidates to generate actionable knowledge, strategic insights, and organisational impact.Duration: 3 Years | Mode: Online / Blended | Credits: 180 ECTS
About USPEE
The University of Political and Economic Studies “C. Stere” (USPEE), located in the Republic of Moldova, is a dynamic higher education institution committed to academic excellence, research, and internationalisation. Established in 1997 and named after the esteemed lawyer and thinker Constantin Stere, USPEE follows European quality standards under the Bologna Process and ECTS system.
With faculties spanning Law, Political Sciences, Economics, International Relations, Social Sciences, and Business Administration, USPEE fosters interdisciplinary research and global collaboration. Its Doctoral School emphasises transparency, mentorship, and applied research, ensuring doctoral programs like the DBA are globally relevant and academically rigorous.
Program Overview
The DBA equips professionals to bridge theory and practice, delivering real impact in their organisations and industries. Over three years, candidates progress from advanced coursework to applied research, developing solutions for complex organisational challenges.
Key Objectives:
- Develop scholar-practitioners capable of solving complex business problems
- Design and implement practice-based research
- Generate strategic, organisational, and policy-level impact
- Prepare graduates for senior leadership, consultancy, and executive academic roles
Who Should Apply
The DBA is ideal for experienced professionals, including:
- Senior managers and executives
- Entrepreneurs and business owners
- Consultants and advisors
- Policy makers and regulators
- Academics seeking a practice-focused doctorate
Program Structure
Year | Focus | Key Activities | Milestone |
Year 1 | Doctoral Coursework | Literature Review, Research Methodology, Data Collection & Analysis, Recommendations for Practical Impact, Research Proposal | Approved Research Proposal & Ethics Approval |
Year 2 | Applied Research | Fieldwork, Advanced Data Analysis, Practice-based Interventions, Supervision | Candidature Confirmation & Interim Research Report |
Year 3 | Thesis Completion | Thesis Writing, Evidence-based Recommendations, Viva Preparation | Thesis Submission & Viva Voce Defence |
Core Coursework Modules (Year 1)
- Literature Review – Identify research gaps, synthesize theory and practice
- Research Methodology – Learn applied research designs, qualitative & quantitative methods
- Data Collection & Analysis – Gather, interpret, and analyse organisational data
- Recommendations for Practical Impact – Translate findings into actionable organisational strategies
- Research Proposal – Integrate learning into a formal research plan for approval
Years 2–3: Applied Research & Thesis
- Conduct independent, supervised research focused on a real organisational or sectoral problem
- Produce practice-based solutions integrating theory and professional practice
- Submit a thesis (45,000–50,000 words) and complete viva voce defence
Program highlights
DBA Thesis Characteristics:
- Practice-based and problem-driven
- Embedded in real organisational or sectoral contexts
- Demonstrates original contribution to professional practice
- Integrates theory, evidence, and applied outcomes
Research Areas:
- Strategic Management & Leadership
- Finance, Banking & Risk Management
- Corporate Governance & Ethics
- Sustainability, ESG & Responsible Business
- Digital Transformation & Innovation
- Human Capital & Organisational Change
- International Business & Political Economy
Supervision & Academic Support:
- Primary Supervisor + Co-Supervisor
- Structured doctoral seminars & progress reviews
- Academic writing & publication support
- Ethics and research governance guidance
Graduate Outcomes
DBA graduates will be able to:
- Lead evidence-based organisational transformation
- Apply doctoral-level research to strategic decision-making
- Influence policy, governance, and executive practice
- Publish professional and academic outputs
- Operate as reflective, ethical, and research-informed leaders
Entry Requirements
- Master’s degree or equivalent from a recognised institution
- Minimum 3 years of managerial/professional experience
- Proficiency in English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)
FAQ
What is the DBA programme?
Professional doctorate for experienced managers and executives focused on real-world business challenges.
What is the duration of the DBA programme?
The DBA is completed over three years, structured as:
- Year 1: Doctoral coursework
- Years 2 & 3: Applied research and thesis completion
How does DBA research differ from PhD research?
DBA research is practice-based, focusing on solving real-world organisational or industry problems, whereas PhD research is primarily theoretical and academic.
Is work experience mandatory for the DBA?
Yes. The DBA is designed specifically for working professionals and senior leaders, and relevant experience is essential.
How is the DBA assessed?
Assessment includes:
- Coursework assessments (Year 1)
- Research proposal defence
- Candidature confirmation
- Submission of a practice-based doctoral thesis
- Viva voce examination
Is publication required in the DBA programme?
Candidates are encouraged to produce professional reports, case studies, or academic publications, though emphasis is placed on organisational impact rather than purely academic publication.
Can DBA graduates use the title “Dr”?
Yes. Upon successful completion, DBA graduates are entitled to use the doctoral title (Dr.).
Who awards the DBA degree?
The DBA degree is awarded by the University of Political and Economic Studies “C. Stere”.
Is coursework included in the DBA?
Yes. Year 1 includes coursework in:
- Applied research methods
- Business data analysis
- Strategic management and innovation
- Research ethics and governance
What are the entry requirements for the DBA?
Applicants typically require:
- A Master’s degree or equivalent
- Significant professional or managerial experience
- Clear motivation to undertake applied research
How is supervision provided in the DBA?
Each DBA candidate receives:
- A primary supervisor
- A co-supervisor
Supervision focuses on both academic rigor and practical relevance.
What is the expected length of the DBA thesis?
The DBA supports advancement into:
- Senior leadership and executive roles
- Strategic consultancy
- Board-level and advisory positions
- Practice-focused academic roles
What career benefits does the DBA offer?
The DBA supports advancement into:
- Senior leadership and executive roles
- Strategic consultancy
- Board-level and advisory positions
- Practice-focused academic roles