
Doctorate of Business Administration (Global DBA)
- Program formatPart-time
- Duration3 years
- CampusGrenoble, Los Angeles, Online, Paris, Warsaw
- LanguagesEnglish
- Admission levelMaster's degree or more
- DegreeDBA
- Tuition fees€60,000 / 3 years
- Program formatPart-time
- Duration3 years
- CampusGrenoble, Los Angeles, Online, Paris, Warsaw
- Admission levelMaster's degree or more
- DegreeDBA
- Tuition fees€60,000 / 3 years
The Global DBA from GEM is a 3-year, part-time doctorate for experienced managers seeking to create impact by applying academic research to real-world business problems. This Doctor of Business Administration combines online learning with in-person seminars across a worldwide network of Global Hubs in France, Europe, America, Asia, and MENA, and is adapted to the busy lives of professionals and academics.
What is the Global DBA?
The Doctor of Business Administration (Global DBA) is a professional doctoral degree for experienced executives, managers, and consultants who want to solve complex organizational challenges through academic research. Unlike a traditional PhD, the DBA emphasizes practical application, allowing you to conduct research directly relevant to your industry while maintaining your career.
From day one, participants begin working on their research with guidance from subject matter experts who provide personalized supervision throughout the program. The program is designed to support long-term research projects that are highly relevant to management practice and grounded in current scientific knowledge. It connects the business and research communities to drive change and foster progress through original, publishable research.
Program Highlights
- Complete a 3-year part-time doctorate (extendable to 5 years) while maintaining your full-time career
- Study across Global Hubs in France, Europe, North America, Asia, and MENA through 4 in-person, week-long core research seminars, online applied workshops, and advanced research masterclasses
- Join an international cohort of executives building a truly global professional network
- Earn a terminal degree from a top research-ranked, triple-accredited business school (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS)
- Participate in optional Advanced Research Masterclasses drawing from Global Hub expertise and networks
Why Choose the Global DBA from GEM?
Benefit from experienced supervision from day one. Access cutting-edge methodologies and publication opportunities throughout your journey. All DBA supervisors are experienced business scholars, giving you the latest approaches and techniques in your field.
Study across multiple continents through our global hub network in France, Europe, North America, Asia, and MENA. Gain diverse regional business perspectives while building an international professional network that spans the globe.
Join an active community through regional networking events, global conferences at rotating hub locations, and hub-based research collaborations. Engage with a network of scholars and practitioners who share your commitment to rigorous, impactful research.
As Europe’s DBA pioneer, GEM has produced 500+ intellectual contributions to business practice through DBA alumni publications, conference presentations, and applied research since 1993.
Access specialized statistical software, extensive e-library resources, business databases, and publication guidance to support your doctoral journey and ensure research excellence.
Graduate with credentials recognized worldwide by top universities and leading corporations. As a terminal degree from a triple-accredited business school (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS), the DBA opens doors in both academia and industry.
Recognized Leadership
- Ranked among the world’s top research institutions – GEM faculty publish in premier academic journals and contribute cutting-edge knowledge across management disciplines
- Listed by CEO Magazine as one of the top global DBA programs
- Member of the Executive DBA Council (EDBAC) and the European Doctoral Programs Association (EDAMBA) – the premier associations for executive doctoral programs worldwide
- Required experienceAt least 5 years
- VPL accessibilityAccessible
- PRM accessibilityAccessible
Global DBA Overview
Program Structure
The GEM Global DBA places a strong emphasis on research methodology while allowing you to tailor your work to your interests and career goals.
Throughout the program, you will:
- Conduct original investigations that test or challenge existing ideas and create new knowledge
- Connect your research to broader bodies of knowledge
- Address real organizational or societal issues by integrating theory and practice
- Master rigorous research design, data collection, and data analysis techniques
- Produce and disseminate high-quality doctoral-level research
- Build credibility as an expert in academic and professional contexts
The DBA curriculum is structured in two phases designed for working professionals:
Master doctoral-level research methodology through seminars and workshops at GEM campuses and international hub locations:
- Research design and data collection techniques
- Quantitative and qualitative analysis methods
- Academic writing and literature review
- Research ethics and philosophy
Deliverables:
- Preliminary Research Proposal (±2,000 words)
- Literature Review (±10,000 words)
- Dissertation Proposal (±15,000 words)
Successfully defend your Pre-Dissertation Proposal to earn the Certificate in Research in Management Sciences and advance to Phase II.
Conduct original research under expert supervision:
- Individual research project with practical applications
- Data collection and rigorous analysis
- Dissertation writing (±60,000 words, publication-quality standards)
- Final oral defense before examination panel
Program Content
Core Research Seminars
The four core research seminars guide you step by step from foundational research philosophy and design through to data collection and analysis, with sessions delivered across GEM’s Grenoble and Paris campuses, Online or at Global Hub locations to enrich your dissertation journey with diverse international contexts.
Launch your doctoral journey at GEM’s Grenoble campus in the French Alps. Build foundations in research philosophy and design and connect with your international cohort.
Seminars are offered in Grenoble, France, or at one of our international partner hubs across Europe, America, Asia, or MENA. Experience different business contexts and regional perspectives. Available locations vary by intake year.
Advance your dissertation development at GEM’s Paris campus, working with faculty on methodology refinement and research design.
Complete your core seminar requirements at GEM’s Grenoble campus, preparing for dissertation completion and final defense. This seminar may also be held at a Global Hub (depending on cohort composition)
Applied Workshops
These online Applied Workshops are short, focused 2‑hour sessions that help you turn your research plan into concrete outputs at each key milestone of the program. They guide you step by step from implementing your research proposal, through preparing and defending your dissertation proposal, to writing up and communicating your final thesis.
Across the workshop series, you build practical skills in academic writing, articulating theoretical and managerial contributions, and presenting your work convincingly to both scholarly and practitioner audiences.
Workshop Series:
- Implementing the Research Proposal
- Preparing Dissertation Proposal
- Preparing Dissertation Proposal Defense
- Facing Criticism and Revision
- Reporting Research Findings
- Theoretical Contribution & Impact
- Managerial Contribution & Impact
- Communicating Your Research
Advanced Research Masterclasses
Throughout the program, students may choose to attend up to six Advanced Research Masterclasses at any stage of their studies. These sessions draw on local expertise at our Global Hubs and GEM’s research strengths to expose you to frontier research and broaden your intellectual horizons.
Masterclasses are offered in person at GEM and Global Hub locations, as well as online, and are not required to align directly with your dissertation topic. They provide opportunities to:
- Gain exposure to diverse research topics beyond your dissertation focus
- Learn cutting-edge techniques in leading management research
- Engage with faculty experts across multiple disciplines
Program content subject to change.
Program Schedule
| Core Research Seminars & Online Applied Workshops | Tentative Date | Delivery |
| Research Seminar 1: Opening Seminar | November 2nd-6th 2026 | In-person at GEM Grenoble Campus |
| Workshop 1: Implementing the Research Proposal | January 12th 2027 | Online 5pm Central European Time (CET) |
| Research Proposal Submission | February 26th 2027 | Online submission |
| Research Seminar 2: Research Design & Literature Review | March 15th-19th 2027 | Choice between in-person at a Global Hub or online |
| Literature Review Submission | September 10th 2027 | Online submission |
| Research Seminar 3: Data Collection (Qualitative or Quantitative) | October 4th-7th 2027 | In-person at GEM Paris Campus |
| Workshop 2 with DBA USA: Prepare Dissertation Proposal | November 30th 2027 | Online 5pm CET |
| Dissertation Proposal Submission | February 28th 2028 | Online submission |
| Workshop 3: Preparing Dissertation Proposal Defense | March 21st 2028 | Online 5pm CET |
| Dissertation Proposal Defense | April 4th 2028 | Online |
| Workshop 4: Facing Criticism and Revision | April 25th 2028 | Online 5pm CET |
| Research Seminar 4: Data Analysis (Qualitative or Quantitative) | June 26th-30th 2028 | In-person at GEM Grenoble Campus or at a Global Hub (depending on cohort composition) |
| Workshop 5: Reporting Research Findings | September 19th 2028 | Online 5pm CET |
| Workshop 6: Theoretical Contribution & Impact | January 16th 2029 | Online 5pm CET |
| Workshop 7: Managerial Contribution & Impact | February 6th 2029 | Online 5pm CET |
| Workshop 8: Communicating Your Research | June 19th 2029 | Online 5pm CET |
| Dissertation approved for defense (greenlight from disseration reviewers) | October 31st 2029 |
Dates of seminars and webinars are tentative and may be subject to modifications.
Advanced Research Masterclasses
Throughout the program, students can opt to participate in a total of 6 advanced research masterclasses at any stage of their studies. These Masterclasses are designed to enrich their knowledge with frontier research in all management disciplines and expand their intellectual horizon. They are offered in-person at GEM or Global Hub locations and streamed online. A total of six masterclass participations will earn the student the Advanced Certificate in Research Frontiers and Global Perspectives.
Doctoral Supervision
From the start, you will work with an experienced, research-active supervisor from our international faculty. Our experts specialize in business and management fields, guiding you from research design through final defense. Learn more about research at GEM:
The DBA Profile
DBA Student & Alumni Profiles
(2021-2024 Intakes)
Our diverse international cohort brings rich professional experience to the program:
- Average age: 44 years
- Female representation: 40%
- Geographic diversity: 46% from North America, with students from France, Switzerland, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and 25+ other countries
Career Outcomes
GEM DBA graduates achieve remarkable career outcomes across all hub regions, holding positions at:
Brooklyn College – California State University – Fresno Pacific University – IMD Business School– Louisiana State University – Ontario Tech University – Pennsylvania State University – Russell Sage Collage – Temple University – UNC Kenan-Flagler – University of Georgia – University of Southern California – Utah Valley University – Woodbury University – Yale University
Accenture – Amazon Web Services – Capgemini – Goldman Sachs – Google – L’Oréal – Meta – Microsoft – Nestlé – SAP – Shell – Siemens
World Bank – World Health Organization – Islamic Development Bank
Research Impact
Our DBA students’ research influences managerial and organizational milieus at the highest level. Each student’s thesis includes a chapter dedicated to the managerial implications of their doctoral research and offers relevant recommendations for organizations to overcome key challenges.
DBA students and graduates are encouraged to share their results and findings with the widest possible audience in order to inform and engage with their peers, organizations, and communities.
Admissions & Financing
Who Should Apply?
- Senior managers and executives with 5+ years of experience
- Independent consultants seeking academic credibility
- Experienced professionals looking to work part-time in academia
- Global leaders addressing complex organizational challenges across regions
Admissions Criteria
Master’s degree (MBA, MA, MSc) or equivalent from an accredited institution
Minimum 5 years managerial experience (pre- or post-master’s)
English proficiency (evaluated during interview – no GMAT required)
- Preliminary research proposal (download template on application platform)
- Motivational letter
- Updated CV
- Diploma copies and transcripts
- 2 professional references
How to Apply
Rolling application deadlines – Apply now for November 2026 intake!
- Session 1: February 17
- Session 2: March 24
- Session 3: May 5
- Session 4: May 26
- Session 5: June 23*
- Session 6: July 14
- Session 7: Sept 7
Applicants are reviewed by the academic admissions board and notified within two weeks of each rolling application deadline.
*Scholarship Deadline is June 23. Please submit a one page motivational letter along with your application.
Tuition & Financing
Program Investment
Total Tuition: €60,000 for 3 years
- Year 1: €20,000 (50% deposit upon acceptance)
- Year 2: €20,000
- Year 3: €20,000
- Extension: €5,000 per additional semester if needed
Tuition fees do not include travel, accommodation, and visa expenses for in-person seminars at France campuses and hub locations.
Scholarships & Financial Support
Merit Scholarships: Up to €6,000 available for qualified early applicants, based on application strength and motivational essay, divided across 3-year program
Alumni Discount: Special tuition reduction for GEM graduates (MBA, MSc, MIB programs)
Employer Sponsorship: Many students secure organizational funding
Your Global DBA Experience
Join a worldwide community of 800+ DBA students and alumni connected through our international hub network. The Global DBA combines the strength of a truly international cohort with the support of regional connections, offering diverse business perspectives, rigorous research opportunities, and a lifelong professional network.
From your first seminar in Grenoble to your final defense, you’ll work alongside internationally recognized scholars, connect with fellow practitioners conducting impactful research, and contribute original knowledge that advances both management theory and practice.
Where We Meet
The Global Hub Network
GEM’s Global DBA operates through a network of five strategic hub locations, each connected to leading local institutions and alumni networks that provide recruitment support, local expertise, and knowledge embedded into the program.
The GEM Global DBA Hub network allows you to:
- Experience diverse business environments and cultural contexts
- Build professional connections across multiple regions
- Access local research opportunities and academic partnerships
- Develop truly global perspectives on management challenges
- Network with alumni communities across the globe.
Grenoble & Paris – Core doctoral seminars at GEM’s campuses in the French Alps and France’s capital
Three of the four required research seminars are delivered at GEM’s French campuses, ensuring consistent program delivery and accessibility for all students.
Access European business contexts and connect with our established network.
Poland – Kozminski University (Warsaw)
Offered in partnership with Kozminski University in Warsaw, one of Poland’s leading business schools, providing local access to a high-caliber DBA experience. Polish residents may join the Kozminski University cohort; Learn more
With 30% of our DBA community based in North America, you’ll join an established network of scholars and practitioners across the United States, Canada, and Latin America.
Los Angeles, California, USA – Woodbury University
Access our strong Asian alumni base and engage with dynamic business environments across the region.
China – GEM’s prestigious DBA China program in partnership with leading Chinese universities
Engage with the region’s vibrant business landscape and strategic global position.
Dubai – GEM’s newest campus connects you to Middle Eastern and North African business communities and international organizations
How We Connect
Throughout your three-year journey, you’ll participate in a rich ecosystem of learning, networking, and knowledge exchange designed for working professionals:
The International Hubs offer a variety of activities such as:
- Advanced Research Master Classes (optional, in-person)
- Writing groups and peer collaboration opportunities
- Special guest speaker events and local networking
- Access to local business communities and research partnerships
- Regional alumni chapter activities
All hub activities are optional and designed to enhance your doctoral experience without creating barriers to participation.
Accessible to all students regardless of location:
- Webinars covering research methodology, career development, and doctoral success strategies
- Alumni panels featuring graduates sharing their DBA journey and career transformations
- Research workshops on design, methods, and emerging techniques
- Online writing circles connecting you with peers working on similar research challenges
- Global DBA Conference rotating across hub locations, bringing together current students and alumni worldwide
- Graduation Ceremony celebrating your achievement and welcoming you into the alumni community
- Regional alumni gatherings across all hub regions
All hub activities are optional and designed to enhance your doctoral experience without creating barriers to participation.
What We Share
The GEM DBA community is committed to translating research into impact. We provide multiple platforms for you to share your findings with academic and practitioner audiences.
Present your work at the annual Global DBA Conference and receive feedback from fellow researchers at different stages of their doctoral journey. Many students also present at international academic conferences, including those organized by EDBAC and other associations, with faculty support and, in some cases, financial contribution from GEM toward conference fees.
Every DBA thesis includes a dedicated chapter on managerial implications, ensuring your research offers actionable recommendations for organizations. Our 500+ intellectual contributions to business practice demonstrate the real-world impact of GEM doctoral research.
Share insights from your research journey, methodological reflections, and practical applications through our Doctoral Knowledge Community Blog. Connect with readers interested in your field, build your thought leadership profile, and participate in webinars to share your DBA experience with prospective and current students.
A Word from Global DBA alumni
Must-Read Articles
Read about the DBA experience from those who have made it!
The GEM Doctoral Knowledge Community Blog features over 50 testimonials and insights from DBA alumni, current students, and PhD candidates. These stories inspire prospective candidates, provide practical guidance for current doctoral students, and demonstrate real-world research applications across diverse industries.
Video Highlights
Midway Reflections
Alumni Voices
Have Questions?
Feel free to contact our DBA advisors and faculty with any questions about the program and it fits your research goals.
Contact us


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Sign up for upcoming webinars and view the replays of those you missed! Meet the alumni and faculty and learn more about the program.
Have you been considering a business doctorate but struggling with identifying your research topic? In this webinar, we answer some key questions to help you identify your research topic and take that first doctoral step.
Hear directly from DBA alumni and Program Faculty as they reveal the secrets to surviving the DBA, explain why the experience is truly worthwhile, and describe how earning the DBA has shaped the roles and ambitions of graduates.
Explore the supervisor-supervisee relationship in the DBA program with insights from both a DBA graduate and a supervisor. Gain practical tips for a successful experience.
Meet the Doctoral School Team
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