Doctor of Business Administration

(R/0414/8/0030) (11/28) (MQA/FA 10531)

The world of business and management is going through rapid and profound changes; therefore new theories need to be created and novel strategies, as well as practices, needs to be implemented. Institutional leaders, policy makers, and administrators are confronted with novel situations in their respected professional field and indeed this has precipitated the need for new knowledge to be quickly translated into practice, which can be achieved with the help of advanced research activity.

  • Full Time: 3 Years | Part Time: 6 Years
  • Intake: Ongoing

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements :

Master in Business Administration (MBA) (Level 7, MQF); or
Other qualification that is equivalent to the above mentioned qualification.

English Requirements :

English Competency Requirement (International Student): International students are required to achieve a minimum score of 500 in Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or 5.0 in International English Language Testing System (IELIS) or its equivalent.

 

FAQ

About The Program

The world of business and management is going through rapid and profound changes; therefore, new theories need to be created and novel strategies, as well as practices, needs to be implemented. Institutional leaders, policy makers, and administrators are confronted with novel situations in their respected professional field and indeed this has precipitated the need for new knowledge to be quickly translated into practice, which can be achieved with the help of advanced research activity. It is in this context that Lincoln University College introduced its innovative Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program – with its other post-graduate management education program. The DBA exposes candidates to critical management issues and relevant theories; ensures that students acquire a thorough understanding of all the aspects related to this program and requires them to demonstrate a post-MBA level of conceptual understanding. It has been designed to develop, their ability to, source, analyze, interpret, explain and link data, communicate research effectively as well as expeditiously and translate concepts into practice. For successful completion of PhD degree in LUC, each candidate should publish minimum of Four research articles in Scopus indexed journals, with Lincoln affiliation.

The Doctor of Business Administration is a professional doctorate that focuses on advanced business leadership and research. It is designed for experienced professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of business theory and apply it to solve complex real-world problems. The program typically includes coursework in strategic management, advanced leadership, organizational behavior, and research methodologies, culminating in a dissertation or applied research project. The DBA emphasizes the practical application of business knowledge to enhance organizational performance and drive innovation. Graduates are prepared for senior leadership roles, consulting, or academic positions, contributing both to business practice and knowledge.

The Doctor of Business Administration is designed to prepare students for careers in international markets by offering international case studies on business challenges and solutions across different economies.

  • Career support for    Doctor of Business Administration students
  • Career services: Lincoln Business School provide dedicated career services that help students connect with multinational employers through recruitment events, recruitment agency and career fairs.
  • Alumni networks: Strong global alumni networks are common in Lincoln Business School, allowing students to connect with graduates working in diverse industries worldwide.
  • Faculty in Doctor of Business Administration programs often have extensive international experience, bringing a wealth of knowledge from global corporations, international research, and consulting roles.
  • Lincoln Business School boast a diverse faculty with professionals who have worked in multinational corporations across continents and industries.  This global expertise ensures that students gain a real-world understanding of how business is conducted across different cultures and regions.


1. Senior Business Executives and Managers: Executives, senior managers, and professionals who already hold leadership positions in their organizations but wish to gain deeper insights into business challenges, improve their strategic decision-making, and enhance their leadership abilities would greatly benefit from a DBA. It allows them to develop advanced knowledge and conduct research that directly applies to their organization or industry.

2. Aspiring Business Academics: If you’re aiming to transition into academia and teach at business schools, a DBA provides the qualification required to enter teaching and academic roles, especially in business disciplines. It also opens opportunities for contributing to business literature and research.

3. Consultants Seeking Advanced Expertise: Consultants who wish to add credibility and depth to their practice by becoming experts in a particular business field should consider a DBA. The program allows them to specialize in areas such as strategy, operations, marketing, or leadership while conducting research that adds value to their consultancy work.

4. Entrepreneurs Looking to Innovate: Entrepreneurs who want to take a more structured approach to solving business challenges or who aim to become thought leaders in their industry may pursue a DBA. The program helps them apply rigorous academic research to real-world business problems, improving their ability to innovate and manage business complexities.

5. Mid-Career Professionals Seeking Career Advancement: Professionals who have substantial work experience and want to elevate their careers to the executive or C-suite level may benefit from the strategic, high-level focus of a DBA. It prepares them for leadership roles by developing advanced management skills and critical thinking abilities.

6. Leaders Focused on Organizational Change and Innovation: Professionals who are tasked with driving change and innovation within their organizations will find the DBA beneficial. The program provides research tools and knowledge to implement effective change strategies, explore business innovation, and lead transformative initiatives.

7. HR and Organizational Development Specialists: Human resources and organizational development professionals who are focused on leadership development, talent management, and organizational behavior can pursue a DBA to specialize in these areas. This degree can deepen their expertise and allow them to conduct research that improves HR practices and employee engagement strategies.

8. Consultants or Practitioners Focused on Applied Research: Professionals who are interested in conducting applied research that addresses real-world business problems, rather than purely theoretical research, should consider a DBA. It allows them to explore practical business solutions that can be implemented in companies or industries.

9. Corporate Trainers and Leadership Coaches: Corporate trainers, leadership coaches, or development professionals who wish to expand their expertise and bring a more research-based approach to their work may benefit from a DBA. It helps them create leadership programs and solutions that are grounded in advanced management theories and research findings.

10. Professionals Seeking Specialization in a Niche Area: A DBA provides an opportunity for professionals to specialize in a particular area of business, such as marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, or supply chain management. This allows them to become subject matter experts and contribute to thought leadership in their chosen field.

  • The intakes for the Doctor of Business Administration program are ongoing.
  • These multiple entry points provide flexibility for applicants to start the program at a time that best suits their schedule.
Admission
  • Master in Business Administration (MBA) (Level 7, MQF); or
    Other qualification that is equivalent to the above-mentioned qualification

Work Experience

  • Professional experience is preferred but not mandatory. Typically, 2 years of experience can enhance the application.

Preferably candidates should have 2 to 5 years of professional work experience, with good leadership potential.

  • No, master degree in any field is usually acceptable for admission. However, degrees in business, economics, or related fields may provide a stronger foundation for some of the core concepts in the   Doctor of Business Administration.
  • Applicants from non-business backgrounds may be required to take foundational business courses or demonstrate their capacity to handle the program’s academic rigor.

Doctor of Business Administration programs do not require GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores as part of the admission process, particularly if the applicant has significant work experience or a strong academic record.

The typical documents required for the Doctor of Business Administration program application include:

  • Academic transcripts from all institutions attended.
  • Updated resume or CV outlining work experience, academic qualifications, and professional achievements.
  • Proof of English proficiency (for non-native English speakers).

Doctor of Business Administration programs may require an admissions interview. If the program includes an interview, it will typically be conducted after an initial review of your application. The interview may be in person or online and is used to assess your motivation, communication skills, and fit for the program.

 

Yes, Doctor of Business Administration programs allow current students to apply during their final year, provided they submit proof of degree completion before the program starts. You will need to meet all other entry requirements and provide your final academic transcript upon graduation.

There is typically no minimum age requirement for a Doctor of Business Administration program. However, many programs prefer candidates who have accumulated some professional experience, which may result in students being in their mid-20s to early 30s.

 

A successful candidate for a Doctor of Business Administration program typically has:

  • A master’s degree from a recognized institution.
  • Professional experience (preferably 2-5 years, though not mandatory for all programs).
  • Strong leadership potential demonstrated through work experience, extracurricular activities, or volunteering.
  • A clear career vision and motivation to succeed in global business, which is expressed through the personal essay or statement of purpose.
  • English proficiency (if applicable) and possibly GMAT/GRE scores (if required by the program).
  • In most cases, Doctor of Business Administration does not have strict prerequisite courses, especially for applicants who hold a master’s degree in business or a related field.
  • However, for students coming from non-business backgrounds (such as liberal arts, engineering, or the sciences), some programs may require

you to complete foundational business courses either before or during the early stages of the program.

  • These foundational courses typically cover:
    • Accounting: Basic financial and managerial accounting principles.
    • Economics: Microeconomics and macroeconomics to understand business environments.
    • Finance: Introduction to financial management and corporate finance.
    • Statistics: Business statistics or quantitative methods for data analysis.
    • Management: Principles of management, including organizational behavior and leadership.
Program Structure and Duration

Below is a summary of program durations for Doctor of Business Administration program:

    • Full-Time Study: 3 years
    • Part-Time Study: 5 years

The Doctor of Business Administration program at Lincoln University College requires students to complete 48 credit hours to graduate.

Kindly refer to our brochure by clicking on the link

https://www.lincoln.edu.my/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Doctor-of-Business-Administration.pdf

The timetable is typically made available four weeks prior to the start of the semester. Students can easily access and review their schedules through the LLS student portal, ensuring they have ample time to prepare for the upcoming semester.

English Proficiency
  • International students must have proof of good proficiency in verbal and written English. For example, International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.0 or its equivalent.
  • If a student does not meet this requirement, HEPs must offer English proficiency courses to ensure that the student’s proficiency is sufficient to meet the needs of the program.

Yes, the Intensive English Program is available for students who don’t meet the requirement. Successful completion allows for admission to degrees.

Test scores are valid for two years from the test date.

Submit them along with your application or by the deadline outlined by the university.

Accreditation

Yes, our Doctor of Business Administration is accredited by MQA and Ministry of Education, Malaysia.

 

  • Yes, accreditation significantly impacts global employability.
  • Accreditation ensures that the Doctor of Business Administration program meets international standards of quality and rigor.
  • Employers worldwide often prefer graduates from accredited programs as they know the education received is of a high standard.
  • Additionally, accredited programs provide students with a competitive edge in the global job market, increasing their chances of securing roles in multinational companies and enhancing their career prospects across various industries and countries.
  • Yes, the Doctor of Business Administration program is designed to meet current industry standards. The curriculum is regularly updated to align with the latest trends and demands in global business practices, ensuring that students gain relevant skills and knowledge.
  • This ensures that graduates are well-prepared to handle real-world challenges in global markets and are equipped with the competencies sought by employers worldwide.
  • Yes, accreditation from MQA and Malaysia Ministry of Higher Education strongly supports further education and certifications.
  • Graduates from accredited programs are more likely to be accepted into advanced academic pursuits like Ph.D. or Post-Doctoral programs, as these accreditations assure academic rigor and quality.
  • The accreditation for the Doctor of Business Administration by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) is typically reviewed and updated every 3 to 5 years.
  • This regular review ensures that the program maintains high academic standards and stays current with industry developments and best practices.
  • The MQA periodically assesses the curriculum, teaching methods, and overall quality of the program to ensure it continues to meet national and international educational standards.
  • This helps to keep the program relevant, ensuring that students are equipped with up-to-date skills and knowledge for the global business environment.
Career Prospects

1. Chief Executive Officer (CEO): As a CEO, you will be responsible for setting the strategic direction of the company, managing overall operations, and driving the business towards its objectives. A DBA provides the leadership skills, strategic thinking, and research-based insights needed to excel in this role.

2. Chief Operating Officer (COO): COOs oversee daily operations, ensuring that all business functions run smoothly. The DBA equips you with the tools to optimize operational efficiency, manage teams, and implement research-based improvements to enhance performance.

3. Business Consultant: DBA graduates are highly sought after as business consultants due to their advanced knowledge and research skills. As a consultant, you’ll provide expert advice to organizations looking to improve performance, address challenges, or implement new business strategies. The DBA allows you to specialize in areas like management, finance, marketing, or operations.

4. Academic Roles (Professor or Lecturer): The DBA qualifies you for teaching positions at universities and business schools. As a professor or lecturer, you’ll teach courses in business management, conduct research, and contribute to academic literature. DBA graduates often choose this path if they’re interested in both practical and academic contributions to the field.

5. Director of Operations: Directors of Operations manage the overall operational strategy of an organization, working to streamline processes, increase efficiency, and ensure that operational goals align with the company’s strategy. The research skills gained in a DBA enable you to bring data-driven solutions to this role.

6. Corporate Trainer / Leadership Development Specialist: Corporate trainers with a DBA design and implement leadership development programs. You’ll work within organizations or as an independent consultant to develop leaders, improve management practices, and align leadership with organizational goals.

7. Entrepreneur: Many DBA graduates use their advanced knowledge to start their own businesses or scale existing ones. A DBA provides the skills needed to manage business operations, develop strategies, and solve complex challenges, making it ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs.

8. Policy Advisor or Public Sector Leader: A DBA is also valuable for professionals in the public sector who are involved in policy-making or organizational leadership. You can take on roles as a senior advisor or leader within government agencies, using research and strategic insights to influence public policy or improve organizational effectiveness.

9. Management Consultant (Specialized): Many DBA graduates choose to specialize as management consultants in areas such as operations, finance, strategy, or human resources. The DBA enhances your credibility and expertise in these areas, allowing you to work with organizations to address specific, high-level business challenges.

10. Executive Coach: DBA graduates who are passionate about leadership and personal development may pursue careers as executive coaches. You’ll work with top executives to enhance their leadership skills, improve decision-making, and foster organizational growth.

11. Strategic Advisor: As a strategic advisor, you will help organizations shape long-term strategies, develop growth plans, and navigate competitive environments. Your DBA research experience will be valuable in providing evidence-based advice on strategy and performance improvements.

12. Director of Research and Development (R&D): DBA graduates can also take on roles in R&D departments within organizations, particularly in sectors like technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. Your role would involve overseeing research projects, developing innovative business solutions, and ensuring that research efforts align with business objectives.

13. Chief Financial Officer (CFO): As a CFO, you will oversee the financial strategy of an organization, manage financial risks, and ensure the company’s financial health. A DBA can equip you with advanced skills in financial management and strategic decision-making that are essential for success in this role.

14. Non-Profit Executive Director: DBA graduates can also lead non-profit organizations as Executive Directors, applying their knowledge of management, operations, and strategy to make an impact in the non-profit sector. This role involves managing teams, fundraising, and driving the organization’s mission.

15. Corporate Strategist: Corporate strategists work within organizations to develop long-term business strategies, assess competitive positions, and guide decision-making. A DBA provides the analytical tools and research expertise necessary to evaluate opportunities and risks, ensuring that strategies align with business objectives.

16. Director of Business Development: The Director of Business Development is responsible for identifying new business opportunities, forging partnerships, and expanding the organization’s market presence. A DBA prepares you to think strategically about growth opportunities and develop actionable plans to increase revenue and market share.

17. Chief Innovation Officer (CIO): The CIO leads innovation efforts within an organization, managing new product development, technology adoption, and creative business solutions. A DBA helps professionals excel in this role by fostering a deep understanding of business innovation and how to leverage research for real-world applications.

18. Supply Chain Manager: For those specializing in operations or logistics, a DBA can lead to senior roles in supply chain management. Supply chain managers with advanced research and problem-solving skills can optimize global supply networks, reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency.

  • Malaysia: Starting salaries range from MYR 60,000 to MYR 100,000 per annum, depending on experience and industry.
  • International: Salaries vary widely; research specific regions for accurate figures.
Tuition Fee and Scholarship

For details about the tuition fees, kindly email admission@lincoln.edu.my or imd@lincoln.edu.my or finance@lincoln.edu.my

For details about our scholarship schemes, kindly email admission@lincoln.edu.my or imd@lincoln.edu.my or finance@lincoln.edu.my

Yes, for details, kindly email admission@lincoln.edu.my or imd@lincoln.edu.my or finance@lincoln.edu.my

Alumni Network

Yes, as a graduate of the Doctor of Business Administration program, you will have lifelong access to our global alumni network, which includes thousands of professionals across various industries and regions. The alumni network offers invaluable resources for networking, career opportunities, and continuous learning, and we host regular alumni events and reunions to help you stay connected.

Our Doctor of Business Administration program has produced many distinguished alumni who have gone on to lead and innovate in their fields. For example, some of them have become CEOs of global firms, and some working as partner in major consulting firms. We also have alumni who have become successful entrepreneurs, launching startups such in the fintech industry. Some of them have joined prestigious universities in Canada, New Zealand, or Germany for further studies. Our alumni continue to make significant impacts in various sectors worldwide.

Our graduates pursue careers across a wide range of industries, including finance, consulting, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, consumer goods, and non-profit sectors. Many graduates also find opportunities in emerging fields such as sustainability, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation. The diverse skill set provided by the Doctor of Business Administration prepares students to succeed in both traditional and rapidly evolving industries.

Yes, there are numerous ways for alumni to stay engaged with the Doctor of Business Administration program. Alumni are invited to participate in networking events, mentorship programs, guest lectures, and alumni reunions. We also encourage alumni to contribute to the growth of the program by serving on advisory boards, offering internships, and recruiting new graduates for their organizations. Additionally, our alumni have lifetime access to career services and continued learning opportunities through workshops and webinars.

Course Overview
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Wisma Lincoln, No. 12-18, Jalan SS 6/12, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia

+1300 880 111 (Malaysia)
+603-7806 3478 (International)

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