Doctorate of Business Administration in International Management

The Doctorate of Business Administration in International Management at Geneva Business School is a comprehensive and rigorous doctoral program designed for experienced professionals seeking to expand their expertise and leadership capabilities in the global business environment. This program focuses on advanced research, critical analysis, and strategic thinking in international management practices, preparing graduates to become influential scholars, consultants, or senior executives in diverse industries worldwide. The curriculum emphasizes the development of innovative solutions to complex business challenges, integrating theoretical foundations with practical applications across multicultural and international contexts. Students will engage in in-depth coursework covering topics such as global strategy, cross-cultural management, international marketing, organizational behavior, and sustainable business practices, supported by a strong emphasis on research methodology and academic writing. The program encourages an interactive learning environment, where students collaborate with faculty members who are experts in their fields, participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences, and contribute original research that adds value to the global business community. The Doctorate of Business Administration program at Geneva Business School is tailored for professionals who aspire to impact the international business landscape through strategic insight, innovative thinking, and academic excellence. It aims to equip graduates with the skills necessary to undertake high-level research, publish their findings, and implement effective management strategies within multinational companies, non-governmental organizations, or academic institutions. Upon completion, alumni will have demonstrated exceptional competencies in academic inquiry, leadership, and international management, positioning themselves as thought leaders and change-makers in their fields. The program’s flexible online format allows working professionals to pursue their doctorate without disrupting their careers and personal commitments, making the Geneva Business School’s DBA in International Management an ideal choice for motivated individuals seeking to influence global business practices through advanced education and research.

The Doctorate of Business Administration in International Management at Geneva Business School is a comprehensive and rigorous doctoral program designed to equip experienced executives and professionals with the advanced knowledge and research skills necessary to address complex management challenges in a global context. The program focuses on developing thought leaders who can contribute original insights and innovative solutions to the dynamic world of international business.

Throughout the program, students engage in a deep exploration of essential topics such as global strategic management, cross-cultural leadership, international marketing, supply chain management, and global economic development. Emphasizing a research-driven approach, the curriculum guides students through the rigorous process of identifying relevant research problems, conducting methodologically sound investigations, and producing publishable scholarly work that advances the field of international management.

Academic coursework combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, enabling students to understand and analyze real-world business scenarios from an international perspective. Pedagogical methods include case studies, collaborative projects, and seminars led by faculty members with extensive expertise in global business environments. This approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to lead organizational change, drive innovation, and influence policy in multinational corporations, governmental agencies, and international non-governmental organizations.

The doctoral journey culminates in the submission and defense of a dissertation that contributes original research to the domain of international management. Students are mentored by experienced faculty throughout their research process, ensuring the development of high-quality scholarship aligned with academic standards and industry relevance. The program fosters critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and strategic insight, all essential qualities for successful leaders in today’s interconnected world.

Designed to be flexible and accessible, the program accommodates working professionals through blended learning formats that combine online coursework with in-person seminars and research workshops held at Geneva Business School’s campuses. This structure allows students to balance their academic pursuits with their professional responsibilities while benefiting from an international network of peers and alumni.

Graduates of the Doctorate of Business Administration in International Management will be equipped with advanced research competencies and strategic insights necessary to drive growth and innovation in the global marketplace. They will be capable of making impactful contributions to academia, industry, and policy-making, ultimately advancing the practice and understanding of international management in a rapidly changing world.

Admission Criteria for Doctorate Programs (DBA)

• Master’s degree or equivalent, preferably in a related field

• IELTS 7.0 / TOEFL 85 / DET 115-120 (official English exam results) or proof of studying previously in an English-speaking environment for a minimum of 3 years

• Scanned copy of all required academic diplomas, transcripts, certificates

• Extensive previous business/professional experience

• Photocopy of valid passport/national ID

• Resume/CV

• Reference letters from a former academic institution and from current employer (if applicable)

• Completion of the Thesis Proposal Form.

Admission Protocols

• APPLICATION SUBMITTED: Application from prospective students are reviewed only once all documents are submitted and admission criteria met. 

• ENGLISH EXAM: As English is the common language used in Geneva Business School, TOEFL/IELTS/DET test scores , online, phone or face to face interviews measure each student’s English proficiency level. Online English tests can be an alternative if necessary 

• INTERVIEW: After all references have been checked, a final interview takes place and then a final letter of admission is sent to the prospective student.

• CONFIRMATION: The Registrar validates applications and informs the students. The Registrar reviews applications that may not completely fulfill the admission criteria and may accept them upon evidence-based competency proofs. In some instances an “entrance exam” may be added to assess candidates’ proficiency in reading, writing, verbal, analytical and quantitative proficiencies. 

Admission Criteria for Credit-Transfer Students

• Credit transfer allowance: No credit transfer accepted

Exceptional admissions conditions – COVID-19

1. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Geneva Business School Board of Management has decided that it will accept students even if they are unable to obtain their TOEFL/ IELTS English exam results due to the pandemic.During the application interviews, we will apply the same level of rigorous assessment as well as thoroughly evaluate the candidate’s level of comprehension in English to ensure that everyone has the capacity to participate in class. Candidates accepted to Geneva Business School without TOEFL/IELTS or high school examination results will be afforded one additional academic year, from the time they join our school, to provide the missing documents. Applicants may submit the Duolingo English Test (DET), which combines an English proficiency test with a brief video interview. Duolingo’s technology and format allows applicants to complete the test at any time or place with internet access.

Doctorate Fees for 2020

• Application Fee: EUR 150 (non-refundable, paid upon application)

• Administration Fee: EUR 1,900

• Tuition per term: EUR 3,900 (3-year / 9-term program)

The Doctorate of Business Administration in International Management at Geneva Business School is a rigorous postgraduate program designed for experienced professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of global business dynamics and leadership strategies. This doctoral program aims to develop advanced research, analytical, and strategic skills, enabling graduates to contribute meaningfully to the academic and practical fields of international management. The curriculum typically covers core topics such as global business environments, strategic management, organizational behavior, cross-cultural communication, international marketing, and leadership development. Students are encouraged to undertake original research addressing contemporary challenges in international business, supported by faculty with extensive industry experience and academic expertise. The program structure often includes coursework, comprehensive examinations, and a dissertation component, culminating in the presentation of a significant research project. The flexible learning formats are designed to accommodate working professionals, allowing part-time or online study options that facilitate balancing academic pursuits with professional commitments. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in academia, high-level consultancy, international corporate leadership, or policy development within global organizations. As with other doctoral programs at Geneva Business School, the program emphasizes practical application of theory, critical thinking, and innovative problem-solving skills aimed at advancing global business practices.