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Doctor of Business Administration 2

Elevate Your Career with South Europe College Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Study Plan

StepDescriptionDurationRemarks
1Initial Thesis Proposal & Motivational LetterWith application
2Reviewing Admission Board Application, Initial Thesis Proposal and Motivational Letter and making a decision/ recommendation on prospective student admission based on student’s qualifications and experience, provider’s strengths and the market demand2 weeks
3Academic Manager contact the student and provide student with admission decision/ recommendations as well as guidelines for Thesis Proposal.2 weeks
4Student must to submit Thesis Proposal6 months max after admission for both Full-Time and Part-Time students
5Academic board reviews Thesis Proposal and nominates the Thesis Advisory Committee (1 to 3 advisors max)1 month max after student submission
6Academic Manager to establish contact between Student and Thesis Advisory Committee Academic Manager to enroll the student on Learning Management System.

* Note 1
** Note 2
*** Note 3		2 Weeks* Note 1
beyond this point all Academic Communications between Academic Manager, Student and Advisory Committee shall be exclusively through the LMS.
** Note 2
Beyond this point a weekly group meeting between students and advisors to discuss diverse topics in management and business administration. Topics may be presented and moderated by any of the students or supervisors as per mutual agreement during the preceding meeting.
*** Note 3
Beyond this point a weekly meeting shall be held between individual students and at least one member of the Advisory Committee to provide guidance and mentoring to the students on both research and Student Portfolio content and progress as applicable.
7Advisory Committee to provide student with their remarks and recommendation on the Thesis Proposal1 Month
8Student to submit corrected Thesis Proposal (Rev. 1.0)1 Month Full-Time/ 2 Month Part-Time
9Advisory Committee must to provide their comments on Thesis Proposal (Rev. 1.0)1 Month
10Student must to submit corrected Thesis Proposal (Rev. 2.0)2 Weeks Full-Time/ 4 Weeks Part-Time
11Advisory Committee must to provide their comments on Thesis Proposal (Rev. 2.0)2 Weeks
12Student must to submit corrected Thesis Proposal (Rev. 3.0)2 Weeks Full-Time/ 4 Weeks Part-Time
13Advisory Committee must to provide their comments on Thesis Proposal (Rev. 3.0)2 Weeks
14Advisory Committee must to provide student with compulsory subjects and an outline of supplementary contents of the "Student Portfolio” to prepare the student as well as capture their work and acquired knowledge towards the degree

***** Note 5
1 Month***** Note 5
Details of the contents of the student portfolio are provided in a following section
15Student must to submit Thesis (Rev. 0.0)
and present initial research findings to Advisory Committee together with updated Student Portfolio.
6 Month Full-Time/ 12 Month Part-Time
16Advisory Committee must to provide students with remarks on Thesis (Rev 0.0) structure and findings as well as their remarks on portfolio contents and progress2 Weeks
17Student must to provide updated Thesis Proposal (Rev. 4.0)1 Month Full-Time/ 2 Month Part-Time
18Student must to submit Thesis (Rev. 1.0) and present research results to Advisory Committee together with updated Student Portfolio.
**** Note 4		8 Month Full-Time/ 16 Month Part-Time**** Note 4
At this point the student is strongly encouraged to publish relevant research to high impact journal (Q1 and Q2 journals) as this will significantly strengthen the Student Portfolio
19Advisory Committee must to provide students with remarks on Thesis (Rev 1.0) structure and results as well as their remarks on portfolio progress2 Weeks
20Student must to submit Thesis (Rev. Final) and present research results, conclusions and recommendations to Advisory Committee together with updated Student Portfolio.4 Month Full-Time/ 8 Month Part-Time
21Acceptance of Final Thesis with remarks and appointment of Viva Panel and provide "Defense Advised Viva Date"2 Weeks
22Student makes final corrections to the thesis and provides copies to Viva Panel2 Weeks
23Thesis Defense at Viva on the "Defense Advised Viva Date"1 day
24Viva Panel announces decision2 Weeks

The Student Portfolio

A Student’s Guided Portfolio for a DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) program serves as a comprehensive record of a student’s learning journey, research progress, and professional development throughout the program. It is more than just a collection of assignments; it’s a reflective document that showcases growth and mastery of key competencies. Here’s a breakdown of potential contents:
1. Compulsory Section (Based on the Student’s Background):
This section is determined by the student’s and the Advisory Committee’s assessment of the student’s prior qualifications. Up to six subjects deemed relevant to the DBA program and the student’s research area may be jointly selected by the student and the Advisory Committee.
Successful completion of these recommended MBA elective subjects, as demonstrated within this section of the portfolio, is a requirement for successful completion and accumulation of the overall Student Portfolio. No ECTS credits will be awarded for these subjects within the context of the DBA program, as they are considered an integral part of the portfolio and demonstrate bridging of any gaps in prior learning.
For each chosen subject, the student will include in the portfolio the following:

  • Subject Title and Description: Briefly state the subject’s name and a concise description of its content.
  •  Key Learning Outcomes: Identify the key learning outcomes achieved in the subject, emphasizing those relevant to the DBA program’s focus.
  •  Relevance to DBA Research: Explicitly explain how the knowledge and skills acquired in this subject are relevant to the student’s intended DBA research area.
  •  Supporting Evidence (Optional but Recommended): Include relevant artifacts from the optional MBA elective coursework, such as:
    o A high-grade assignment or project demonstrating mastery of key concepts.
    o A summary of a particularly insightful presentation or discussion.
    o A reflection on a challenging aspect of the subject and how it was overcome.
    Example (Compulsory Section – assuming the advisory committee selected these):
  • Strategic Management:
    o Key Learning Outcomes: Developed skills in strategic analysis, competitive strategy formulation, and implementation.
    o Relevance to DBA Research: The strategic analysis frameworks learned in this subject will be crucial for analyzing industry dynamics and formulating research questions related to competitive advantage in the [student’s research area] sector.
    o Supporting Evidence: Includes a strategic analysis report of a specific company, demonstrating application of Porter’s Five Forces and SWOT analysis.
    • Financial Management:
    o Key Learning Outcomes: Gained expertise in financial analysis, valuation, and investment appraisal.
    o Relevance to DBA Research: This knowledge will be essential for conducting financial analysis related to [student’s research area] and assessing the financial viability of proposed solutions.
    o Supporting Evidence: Includes a financial model developed for a case study, demonstrating proficiency in financial forecasting.
    (Up to four more subjects could be included in this section, following the same format.)
    2. Supplementary Section (DBA Journey and Development):
    This section encompasses the broader DBA experience, complementing the foundation established in the compulsory section. It includes the following elements, organized by knowledge area where applicable:
    • Foundational & Introductory Elements:
    o Portfolio Introduction/ Overview
    o Personal Background and Professional Goals
    o Program of Study/Curriculum Map (DBA Courses)
    o DBA Program Learning Objectives and Competencies
    • Core DBA Work & Research:
    o Literature Reviews (focused on DBA research)
    o Research Proposals/Concept Papers
    o Research Progress Reports
    o Conference Presentations/Publications
    o Dissertation/ Thesis Chapters
    o Reflective Journal/Learning Log (focused on DBA journey)
    • Knowledge Area Sections (as previously described):
    o [Field Name] Knowledge & Application:
     Conceptual Understanding (DBA-level understanding)
     Practical Application/Case Studies (DBA-level application)
Module/ Unit TitleCompulsory (C) or Elective (E)MQF Level
of each module		Mode of Teaching
(Lectures, workshop, placement, asynchronous, forums, VLE, etc.)		Mode of Assessment
(Examination, assignment, project, blog, etc.)
PMG 711 Advanced Project ManagementCompulsory
(Management Track & Project Management Track)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
PMG 712 Project Risk Management Compulsory
(Project Management Track)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
RSC 701 Research Methods Compulsory
(Research Based Track)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
PMG 723 Agile Project Management Compulsory
(Project Management Track)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
PMG 724 Program and Portfolio Management Compulsory
(Project Management Track)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
PMG 725 Global Project Management Compulsory
(Project Management Track)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 761 DissertationsCompulsory
(Research-Based Track)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Project
PMG 714 Supply Chain Management Compulsory
(Core)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 702
Management & Leadership		Compulsory
(Core)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 702 FinanceCompulsory
(Core)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 703 MarketingCompulsory
(Core)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 704 Strategic ManagementCompulsory
(Core)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 705 EconomicsCompulsory
(Core)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 706 AccountingCompulsory
(Core)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 707 Advanced Topics in ManagementCompulsory
(Core)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 711 Quality Management Compulsory
(Management Track)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 712 Information and Communication Technology and Digital TransformationCompulsory
(Management Track) &
(Human Resources Track)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 713 Entrepreneurship Compulsory
(Management Track)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 721 Recruitment Principles and Practices Compulsory
(Human Resources Track)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 722 Labor Laws and Employment Relationships Compulsory
(Human Resources Track)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 723 Employee Compensation Strategy and Design Compulsory
(Human Resources Track)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams
BSN 724 Career DevelopmentCompulsory
(Human Resources Track)		Level 7Online LearningOnline Quizzes, Assignments & Exams

Candidates must provide the following to be eligible for admission to the DBA Program:

i. A European three-year undergraduate initial degree or recognized equivalent at EQF/ MQF (Level 6 – 180 ECTS minimum) or a foreign undergraduate bachelor’s degree from outside the Malta equivalent at EQF/ MQF (Level 6 – 180 ECTS minimum)

ii. A recognized European graduate masters degree in any field or recognized equivalent at EQF/ MQF (Level 7 – 90 ECTS minimum)

iii. Proof of English Language Proficiency (IELTS 5.5 or equivalent)

a) Students who failed to meet the English Language requirements are granted a “1 year provisional acceptance” to the program, during which the student must either attend and pass a qualifying English language module at SEC or present alternative proof of English Language proficiency

b) The requirement for English Language proficiency is waived for students who obtained their last degree at a school where English is the primary medium of instruction

iv. Submit an initial thesis proposal (1000 – 2000 words)

Submit a motivational letter detailing how the program aligns with their career objectives and benefits their career, business, and/or occupation. The prospective student must also explain how their previous education and experience have prepared them to succeed in this program.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Due to the research-based nature of the program, no RPL is available for this program

Student Referral Information

Essentially, “Referral” in this context refers to connecting struggling students with appropriate resources to help them succeed.

Students can request referrals if they underperform at any stage by consulting academic advising. By consulting with the Academic Manager, students can review their academic performance and explore options, including:-

1. Resubmitting their work: If underperformance or underachievement is observed at any stage, a student may request to resubmit their work, by the indicated revision plus a reviewed sub division (e.g. Rev 4.0 becomes Rev 4.1).

2. Applying for a Program Duration Extension: Due to work resubmission or other acceptable circumstances, a student may apply for a Program Duration Extension of up to one (1) additional year, subject to the Advisory Board’s recommendation to grant such extension.

3. Alternative Advisory Committee: Exploring options such as replacing or adding advisors to the Advisory Committee, based on the situation revealed after careful consideration of all circumstances.

The SEC DBA program empowers students to become impactful business researchers and transformative leaders. Through rigorous academics, in-depth specialization, and personalized mentorship, our program equips students with the cutting-edge knowledge and skills needed to tackle complex real-world business challenges and meaningfully contribute to improve business practice and leadership skills within the field.

Our students delve into a chosen area of expertise, such as Leadership, Marketing, Finance, Innovation, Business Administration, or Project Management, etc…. Renowned faculty, recognized scholars, and practitioners guide their research journey, propelling them to the forefront of their chosen field.

Crafting a groundbreaking dissertation to be a cornerstone of each student’s experience. Under the guidance of expert faculty, our students translate their research into impactful solutions for real-world business problems, influencing crucial decisions and shaping the future of business.

Graduates emerge as transformative leaders, ready to propel organizational success in today’s dynamic marketplace. Whether they aspire to executive roles or entrepreneurial ventures, our program empowers them to chart a path toward lasting impact.

Our vibrant online community fosters collaboration and networking, fueling our students’ intellectual and professional growth. This flexible format seamlessly integrates with their existing commitments, allowing them to pursue their academic goals while balancing professional responsibilities.

More than just a program, it serves as a platform for students to become industry disruptors and business visionaries.

Key Features:

  • Rigorous curriculum with customizable specialization tracks
  •  Renowned faculty provide personalized mentorship and industry expertise
  • Focus on impactful research with real-world problem-solving
  •  Flexible online format for busy professionals
  • Collaborative learning environment and strong alumni network

To fulfill the program’s requirements, the student must complete the Student Portfolio.

The target group for an advanced degree program is typically individuals already working in a business-related field. However, there are also a growing number of individuals pursuing advanced degrees after working in other fields, such as the arts, humanities, or sciences.

The target groups for this program are:

  • Individuals with extensive experience in business, management, or policy. Their years of practical expertise pave the way for rigorous research journeys that delve into the complexities of their chosen fields.
  • Visionary leaders driven by intellectual curiosity and a thirst for deeper understanding. They are invited to challenge existing paradigms and contribute meaningfully to the body of knowledge in their respective domains.
  •  Seasoned practitioners whose research projects are meticulously designed to drive change and propose practical solutions. Their work has the potential to reshape industry practices and influence policy decisions, making a real difference in the world.
  •  Action-oriented individuals who bridge the gap between theory and application. Their research translates into tangible results, driving positive change within their organizations and beyond.

At the end of the program, the learner will have acquired the capacity to extend or redefine existing knowledge and/or professional practice at the most advanced frontier of business administration to:

a. Develop a systematic understanding of advanced theories, concepts, and methodologies in business administration.

b. Critically analyse complex information and synthesize findings to improve business practice and leadership skills.

c. Assess the impact of emerging technologies and trends on business practices and recommend innovative solutions.

d. Analyse complex systems and identify causal relationships between variables.

e. Systematically evaluate and apply ethical principles and legal frameworks to research design and data analysis.

At the end of the program the learner will have acquired the ability to demonstrate leadership and innovation with regards to:

a) Integrate theoretical frameworks with empirical research to develop innovative business solutions.

b) Conceptualize and formulate rigorous research questions to address critical business issues.

c) Critically analyse complex business problems and identify key strategic opportunities.

d) Assess the methodological rigor and ethical implications of business research.

e) Synthesize diverse perspectives and evidence to inform strategic decision-making.

f) Develop well-supported, evidence-based conclusions to guide business strategy.

g) Communicate complex research findings effectively to diverse business audiences.

h) Apply advanced data analysis techniques to generate actionable insights for business improvement.

i) Utilize advanced technology and project management tools to optimize business processes.

j) Lead complex research projects effectively and efficiently to deliver high-quality results.

k) Apply advanced research methodologies to address real-world business challenges and develop innovative solutions.

Effective Content Delivery:
• Live online sessions: Conduct regular webinars, seminars, and workshops with faculty and guest speakers to facilitate interaction, discussion, and Q&A sessions.
• Online collaborative platforms: Utilize online forums, discussion boards, and wikis to encourage peer-to-peer learning, knowledge sharing, and group project collaboration.
• Based on the recommendation of Advisor/ Supervisor, students may be advised to attend selected asynchronous online modules to provide certain core content, readings, interactive simulations, and case studies. This allows flexibility for students to learn at their own learning pace and schedule.

Research Skills Development
• Research methods workshops: Provide workshops and tutorials on various research methods, data analysis techniques, and academic writing skills.
• Dissertation workshops: Provide ongoing guidance and support through workshops on dissertation topic development, research design, data collection, analysis, and writing.
• Faculty mentoring: Assign dedicated faculty advisors who provide individualized feedback, guidance, and support throughout the dissertation process.

Active Learning and Student Engagement
• Case study analysis: Incorporate real-world case studies and simulations to encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and application of research findings.
• Guest lectures and industry panels: Invite industry experts and practitioners to share their experiences and perspectives on research-related topics.
• Research presentations and conferences: Encourage students to present their research findings at online conferences or symposiums to receive peer feedback and gain valuable experience.

Integration of Technology and Tools
• Learning management system (LMS): Utilize a robust LMS to deliver course materials, manage assignments, track progress, and facilitate communication between students and faculty.
• Video conferencing platforms: Utilize platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Google Meet for live sessions, group work, and dissertation meetings.
Collaborative writing tools: Utilize online collaborative writing tools like Teams, Google Docs or Dropbox Paper to facilitate group research projects and dissertation writing.

All SEC programs adopt a student-centered approach based on the learning outcomes and the determined assessment methods. All units are graded on a scale of 0% to 100% (0-100 marks) which is described according to the following marks and weights.Toggle Content

StageDescriptionWeight
Stage 1Initial Thesis Proposal0%
Stage 2Thesis Proposal0%
Stage 3Acceptance of Final Thesis and Review of Student Portfolio100%
Stage 4Thesis Defense at Viva0%

Marking Criteria/Rubric

StageCriteriaWeighting
Stage 1: Initial Thesis Proposal0%
* Clarity and focus of research question(s) *20%
* Relevance and originality of the research topic *20%
* Feasibility of the proposed research methodology *20%
* Quality of the literature review *20%
* Overall presentation and writing style *20%
Stage 2: Thesis Proposal0%
* Refinement of research questions and objectives *25%
* Development of a robust research framework *25%
* Detailed research methodology *25%
* Ethical considerations and data collection methods *25%
Stage 3: Acceptance of Final Thesis and Review of Student Portfolio100%
* Adherence to research methodology and framework *5%
* Quality and depth of data analysis and interpretation *5%
* Originality and significance of findings *60%
* Coherence and logical flow of arguments *5%
* Quality of writing and presentation *5%
* Successful Completion of All Mandatory and Supplementary Student Portfolio Items20%
Stage 4: Thesis Defense at Viva0%
* Comprehensive understanding of the research topic *20%
* Ability to articulate research questions and objectives clearly *20%
* Critical thinking and analytical skills *20%
* Response to questions and ability to defend research findings *20%
* Overall presentation and communication skills *20%

Additional Considerations/ Guidelines:

  • Stage Completion: Passing grade of 60% is required at each stage. Every student must achieve at least 60% to proceed to the next stage. Extension of time requests must be raised as appropriate. Students who encounter extreme difficulties achieving 60% in stage 3, yet manage to achieve above 50% shall be recommended for MPhil award
  • Weighting: The weightings for each criterion can be adjusted based on the specific requirements of the program and the emphasis placed on different aspects of the research as required and agreed upon by the student and Advisory Committee.
  • Qualitative Assessment: While quantitative scores can be assigned to each criterion, it is important to also provide qualitative feedback to help students improve their work.
  • Inter-rater Reliability: To ensure consistency in evaluation, it’s recommended to have multiple examiners assess each stage of the thesis.
  • Plagiarism: Ensure that the work is original and properly cited.
  • Timeliness: Adherence to deadlines for each stage.
  • Professionalism: Quality of presentation and adherence to academic standards.
  • Consistency: Ensure that the evaluation criteria are consistent across all stages.
  • Clarity: The criteria should be clear and unambiguous to avoid misunderstandings.
  • Objectivity: The evaluation process should be objective and free from bias.
  • Feedback: Provide constructive feedback to the candidate at each stage to help them improve their work.
  • Transparency: The evaluation process should be transparent to the candidate.

Viva Referees Grading

The referees make requests for acceptance, rewriting, or rejection in their assessments during Viva. If they request acceptance of the dissertation, then they also suggest a grade for the dissertation. The following grades apply:
a) Pass (above 60% according to Viva rubric)
b) Resit viva within 3 months (50% – 59% according to Viva rubric)
c) Fail (Less than 50% according to Viva rubric)
Overall Program Grade
a) “Pass with distinction”: (90% – 100% according to stage 3 rubric) + Pass Viva
b) “Very good”: (80% – 89% according to stage 3 rubric) + Pass Viva
c) “Good”: (70% – 79% according to stage 3 rubric) + Pass Viva
d) “Pass/ Sufficient”: (60% – 69% according to stage 3 rubric) + Pass Viva
e) “Fail and award MPhil “: (50% – 59% according to stage 3 rubric) + Pass Viva
f) “Fail”: (Less than 50% according to stage 3 rubric)
The mark “pass with distinction” may only be granted for exceptionally high scientific achievements.