Mike DellatteBook in progressUniversity · Executive DBA programme
A hybrid, part-time doctoral programme designed for experienced business leaders investigating and solving real organisational challenges.
Programme details are drawn from official University of Liverpool materials. Requirements, dates, and fees may change.
The programme
The University of Liverpool describes its Executive DBA as a hybrid, part-time, action-research doctorate created for business leaders rather than aspiring academic researchers.
Participants develop advanced research skills and apply them to a specific managerial challenge inside their own organisation. The aim is to produce practical interventions, support transformational change, and build recognised expertise in a professional field.
Programme structure
Years one and two
Four modules develop the research skills needed to study real-life business phenomena: Introduction to doctoral research, Working with literature, Research methods, and Designing scholarly practitioner research.
The stage combines online sessions with four on-campus residencies. Attendance in person is highly recommended but not compulsory.
Research and thesis
Participants research a particular aspect of their organisation, supported through regular one-to-one online supervision, group seminars, and refresher workshops on research methods.
The programme can be completed in 4.5 years and may be extended to 7.5 years when professional or personal circumstances require it.
Who it is for
Applicants are expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree and an MBA or related master’s degree, together with at least five years of significant senior-level experience in an organisation or as a consultant.
The research proposal centres on an organisational problem for which the applicant can design and implement research-informed interventions. Current entry requirements and application instructions should be confirmed directly with the university.