Doctor of Business Administration
The only Doctor of Business Administration program in Switzerland aligned with the National Occupational Standard
The Doctor of Business Administration program is a top choice in Switzerland, distinguished by its fully recognized qualifications. With a flexible and unique learning structure, the program not only enables students to balance practical skills with academic foundations but also actively supports various opportunities in Switzerland, including job searching, paid internships, and long-term career prospects after graduation. At SIMI Swiss, we believe this is a comprehensive solution that enhances students’ competitiveness and adaptability in an ever-changing global landscape.
In collaboration with local academic partners, SIMI Swiss has developed an extensive academic support system and specialized English training, helping students overcome learning challenges and maximize their academic performance. Additionally, students can participate in Swiss Colloquium and other professional networking activities, allowing them to expand their social and professional connections effectively.
Along with globally recognized qualification, the SIMI Swiss Doctoral program understands what students need:
Qualifications and Professional Recognition Upon Graduation:
- Doctor of Business Administration từ Swiss Information and Management Institute (SIMI Swiss)
- Level 8 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice from OTHM, an Ofqual-regulated Awarding Body in the UK (603/6996/6)
Program Details
Winter Semester 2025 General Opening
Tuition & Living Expenses
Detailed Study Schedule
Pre-Departure Preparation
- Program Consultation: SIMI Swiss assists students in selecting the most suitable Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral program based on their goals and capabilities.
- Enrollment Assistance: Guidance on completing applications, preparing documents, and meeting admission requirements.
- Visa Support: Detailed consultation throughout the visa application process, liaising with embassies to maximize approval chances.
- Accommodation & Living Arrangements: Assistance in finding dormitories or private housing, along with guidance on Swiss culture, transportation, and local regulations.
- Scholarship & Financial Aid: Consultation on scholarships and financial support for eligible students.
- Pre-Departure Orientation: Organized sessions covering education systems, online learning platforms, and familiarization with the new environment.
- Tuition Refund Policy for Visa Denial: 100% tuition refund if the student’s visa application is unsuccessful.
- Collaboration with Agencies in Vietnam: Ensuring efficient and smooth processing for students before departure.
Safe & Efficient Enrollment
- Enrollment Assistance: Guidance on completing applications, document verification, and study schedule arrangements.
- Accommodation Stability: Dormitory placement near campus for a convenient and comfortable learning environment.
- Daily Life Guidance: Assistance with public transportation, shopping, and understanding local culture.
- Orientation Program: Introduction to learning platforms, schedules, and faculty connections for a seamless academic transition.
- Health & Insurance Support: Assistance in purchasing health insurance and accessing healthcare services.
- Visa & Legal Support: Support with visa extensions, residence registration, and opening a bank account for hassle-free settlement in Switzerland.
Effective Study Arrangement
- Balanced Schedule: Enables students to effectively manage their time between studies, extracurricular activities, and part-time jobs in compliance with Swiss labor laws.
- On-Campus Learning: A dynamic blend of theory, research, teamwork, and real-world projects, ensuring practical application of knowledge.
- Modern Supplementary Courses: Training in German language, technology skills, and AI, equipping students with essential competencies to meet the demands of the European job market.
Year 1 Curriculum
Year 1 - Semester 1
1. Developing Strategic Management and Leadership Potential (L/618/5988)
Overview
This module develops learners' understanding of strategic management in a globalized world and explores how leadership influences and informs strategic change. It covers key concepts such as evaluating strategic positions, making strategic choices, and taking strategic actions.
Unit Aims
- Analyze external influences on an organization’s strategy.
- Evaluate the dynamic capabilities and core competences of an organization.
- Appraise strategic options and evaluate approaches to strategy implementation.
- Understand how leadership impacts strategic decision-making.
Course Details
This course is accredited and mapped to National Occupational Standards. It can also be accumulated towards earning a Doctoral Award from SIMI Swiss if taken independently.
- View details on Learning Outcomes, Topics, and Suggested Readings HERE.
2. Managing Strategic Change (R/618/5989)
Overview
This unit explores theories and models of change management, focusing on their application to contemporary organizations. It emphasizes understanding the role of leadership and change agents in facilitating successful organizational change.
Unit Aims
- Evaluate theories and approaches to managing strategic change.
- Develop strategies for implementing organizational change.
- Analyze stakeholder responses to change and manage resistance.
- Assess the role of organizational culture in change management.
Course Details
This course is accredited and mapped to National Occupational Standards. It can also be accumulated towards earning a Doctoral Award from SIMI Swiss if taken independently.
- View details on Learning Outcomes, Topics, and Suggested Readings HERE.
3. Project Development, Planning and Management (J/618/5990)
Overview
This unit introduces key concepts in project management, with a focus on managing research projects from a DBA perspective. It highlights the challenges and best practices in managing DBA research and provides practical tools for project planning.
Unit Aims
- Understand the fundamentals of project management methodologies and processes.
- Develop the ability to manage risks in research projects.
- Learn to divide a research project into work packages and milestones.
- Address challenges related to managing DBA research projects.
Course Details
This course is accredited and mapped to National Occupational Standards. It can also be accumulated towards earning a Doctoral Award from SIMI Swiss if taken independently.
- View details on Learning Outcomes, Topics, and Suggested Readings HERE.
4. Strategic Financial Management (L/616/2727)
Overview
This module focuses on the integration of financial management within strategic decision-making. It explores how financial tools and techniques can be applied to assess an organization’s financial health and support the development of long-term business strategies.
Unit Aims
- Analyze financial data to assess an organization's strategic position.
- Apply financial models and tools to develop and evaluate business strategies.
- Understand the relationship between financial management and business sustainability.
- Critically evaluate how financial management supports decision-making in a globalized environment.
Course Details
This course is accredited and mapped to National Occupational Standards. It can also be accumulated towards earning a Doctoral Award from SIMI Swiss if taken independently.
- View details on Learning Outcomes, Topics, and Suggested Readings HERE.
5. Entrepreneurship and Innovation (Y/616/2729)
Overview
This unit introduces learners to the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and innovation. It covers the process of establishing enterprises, fostering creativity, and leading change in a competitive global environment.
Unit Aims
- Critically analyze the concepts of entrepreneurship and innovation.
- Evaluate how to lead others to embrace innovation and change.
- Develop business ideas and evaluate their feasibility.
- Formulate a business plan and develop strategies for successful business execution.
Course Details
This course is accredited and mapped to National Occupational Standards. It can also be accumulated towards earning a Doctoral Award from SIMI Swiss if taken independently.
- View details on Learning Outcomes, Topics, and Suggested Readings HERE.
6. Strategic Human Resource Management (F/616/2725)
Overview
This unit develops learners’ understanding of the strategic management of human resources and its impact on organizational success. It explores key HRM functions and their alignment with organizational goals in various contexts.
Unit Aims
- Understand the strategic role of human resource management in organizations.
- Analyze the business factors influencing human resource planning and development.
- Develop HR strategies that align with organizational mission, vision, and objectives.
- Evaluate legal, ethical, and CSR issues in human resource management.
Course Details
This course is accredited and mapped to National Occupational Standards. It can also be accumulated towards earning a Doctoral Award from SIMI Swiss if taken independently.
- View details on Learning Outcomes, Topics, and Suggested Readings HERE.
7. German
Overview
- Basic Communication Skills: Get familiar with pronunciation, vocabulary, and simple sentence structures in German.
- Fundamental Grammar: Master essential grammar rules to help learners construct accurate sentences.
- Practical Application: Develop conversational skills through real-life communication scenarios.
Unit Aims
- Building a Strong Foundation in German: Provide learners with a solid base in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar.
- Enhancing Communication Skills: Improve listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in an interactive learning environment.
8. Activity: BossCamp
Year 1 - Semester 2
1. Advanced Research Design and Methodologies (L/618/5991)
Overview
This module builds on existing knowledge of research methods, focusing on advanced research designs and methodologies. It emphasizes the application of both qualitative and quantitative data analysis techniques for business research.
Unit Aims
- Analyze various research approaches and propose appropriate methodologies.
- Evaluate and apply advanced data collection techniques.
- Conduct comprehensive data analysis using advanced statistical tools and qualitative techniques.
- Understand the ethical considerations in research.
Course Details
This course is accredited and mapped to National Occupational Standards. It can also be accumulated towards earning a Doctoral Award from SIMI Swiss if taken independently.
- View details on Learning Outcomes, Topics, and Suggested Readings HERE.
2. Developing Research Capability (R/618/5992)
Overview
This unit focuses on the role of research in solving business problems. It emphasizes critically evaluating existing literature and establishing the need for further research in business contexts.
Unit Aims
- Understand the importance of business research in addressing organizational challenges.
- Evaluate existing literature and identify gaps for further investigation.
- Develop theoretical solutions to business problems and justify the need for research.
- Examine the philosophical, ontological, and epistemological perspectives of research.
Course Details
This course is accredited and mapped to National Occupational Standards. It can also be accumulated towards earning a Doctoral Award from SIMI Swiss if taken independently.
- View details on Learning Outcomes, Topics, and Suggested Readings HERE.
3. Research Proposal
A research orientation or research proposal serves as the blueprint for a doctoral candidate's research project. Therefore, aligning the research direction with the candidate’s expertise and interests ensures the quality and efficiency of completing the DBA dissertation.
At this stage, candidates will draft their research proposal (which is also the objective of the first course) and will receive support in the following areas:
- Study materials ranging from fundamental to advanced levels in business and management, structured into 30 Level 7 EQF courses and 7 doctoral-level courses. This ensures that candidates acquire sufficient knowledge to pursue any research direction. This learning resource aligns with national competency frameworks for the roles of Senior Leader (ST0480) and Operational Research Specialist (ST0884).
- Access to 30 self-study lectures and video lectures on management and administration.
- Provision of templates and research forms.
- Consultation channels with industry-expert professors.
- English proficiency assessment and formatting support.
- Guidance on academic writing and referencing using APA/Harvard citation styles.
Year 2 Curriculum
Year 2 - Semester 1
1. Internship (4-6 months)
Eligible students will be introduced to paid internship opportunities throughout their studies, gaining hands-on experience and developing professional skills. Support activities include:
- Introducing internship opportunities aligned with students' fields of study and personal competencies
- Providing support in internship preparation and reporting to optimize learning outcomes
- Career orientation workshops to help students understand market trends
- In-depth career guidance to build a sustainable career development path
2. Submit Research Proposal
As a crucial part of the doctoral program, candidates are required to develop and submit a detailed Doctoral Dissertation Proposal. This document not only defines the scope of research and key objectives but also proposes suitable research methodologies, ensuring the logical coherence and feasibility of the study.
The proposal must clearly articulate the research’s contribution to the field, highlighting the existing research gap that the dissertation aims to address. Additionally, candidates must outline the theoretical framework, data collection, and analysis methods to demonstrate the feasibility and academic significance of their research.
3. Colloquium 1
Doctoral candidates will participate in Colloquium 1, organized by SIMI Swiss and its partners. Attendance is mandatory, and candidates can join in multiple formats: On-campus or Online.
The Colloquium provides an opportunity for candidates to expand their subject knowledge, engage with faculty members, supervisors, and fellow researchers to discuss, present research directions, and share findings. Upon completion, candidates will have dedicated time to consult with their supervisors to review and validate their Research Proposal before progressing to the defense stage.
4. Defend Research Proposal
After completing the research proposal, doctoral candidates will present and defend it before an academic panel. This is a critical opportunity for candidates to receive in-depth feedback from experts, allowing them to refine and enhance the quality of their research. The defense process not only ensures that the research meets the highest academic standards but also helps candidates strengthen their methodological approach and establish a clearer research direction. Successfully defending the research proposal marks a significant milestone in the doctoral journey, providing a solid foundation for the next stages, including data collection, analysis, and the development of the final dissertation.
Year 2 - Semester 2
1. Internship (4-6 months)
Eligible students will be introduced to paid internship opportunities throughout their studies, gaining hands-on experience and developing professional skills. Support activities include:
- Introducing internship opportunities aligned with students' fields of study and personal competencies
- Providing support in internship preparation and reporting to optimize learning outcomes
- Career orientation workshops to help students understand market trends
- In-depth career guidance to build a sustainable career development path
2. Working with the Supervisor
At this stage, doctoral candidates have been fully equipped with in-depth knowledge, research skills, academic orientation, and foundational materials in business, management, and research methodologies. With this solid foundation, candidates are now fully prepared to begin their doctoral dissertation.
To ensure optimal research efficiency, each candidate will be assigned a dedicated supervisor who will provide ongoing guidance throughout this phase. The supervisor’s role extends beyond academic support—they also help structure the research process, refine methodologies, and define the candidate’s roles and responsibilities in conducting the dissertation. Additionally, candidates will continue to receive academic support from the local partner, enhancing research quality and ensuring that the dissertation progresses in line with international academic standards.
3. Colloquium 2
Doctoral candidates will participate in Colloquium 2, organized by SIMI Swiss and its partners. Attendance is mandatory, and candidates can join in multiple formats: On-campus or Online.
The Colloquium provides an opportunity for candidates to deepen their subject knowledge, engage with faculty members, supervisors, and fellow researchers to discuss, present research directions, and share findings. At the end of Colloquium 2, candidates will have dedicated time to consult with their supervisors to review and validate their Thesis before proceeding to the final defense before the Scientific Council of SIMI Swiss.
4. Finalizing the Research
At this stage, doctoral students will work closely with their supervisors to systematically complete their dissertation.
Doctoral students must adhere to two essential documents:
- Detailed Timeline – A structured schedule outlining key milestones for dissertation completion. Supervisors are also provided with this roadmap to guide and support candidates throughout the process.
- Collaboration & Progress Documentation – Official forms used to track and record interactions with supervisors. These records serve as crucial evidence for SIMI Swiss and any third-party evaluators to verify that the doctoral students have actively engaged in research. The entire process will be validated by the supervisor as official proof of research progress and a basis for graduation consideration.
Year 3 Curriculum
1. Doctoral Dissertation
The Doctoral Dissertation is the final and most comprehensive assignment for DBA candidates. It is not only an academic requirement but also an opportunity for candidates to synthesize and apply their accumulated knowledge and skills to real-world business scenarios. Unlike traditional exams or assignments, the dissertation requires candidates to address a practical problem, utilize critical thinking, and apply research methodologies to develop effective solutions.
Key Features of the Doctoral Dissertation:
- Practical Application: The dissertation focuses on solving a specific business problem, which may be related to a real or hypothetical organization. Candidates conduct in-depth research or develop strategies to improve business operations.
- Knowledge Integration: Candidates must combine insights from multiple disciplines, demonstrating their ability to analyze, synthesize information, and apply it effectively in a real-world context.
- Research Structure: In addition to academic justifications, the dissertation must include an empirical research component. Candidates are required to collect, analyze, and interpret data to support their arguments, ensuring both scientific rigor and practical relevance.
- Presentation and Defense: Upon completion, candidates will defend their dissertation before an academic panel or submit a recorded presentation to the institution, demonstrating the feasibility and significance of their research.
Benefits of Completing the Doctoral Dissertation:
- Real-World Experience: DBA candidates gain the opportunity to apply their knowledge to actual business situations, enhancing leadership and management skills.
- Skill Development: The research process strengthens critical thinking, problem-solving, research, and communication skills—essential for leadership roles.
- Strong Professional Portfolio: The doctoral dissertation is not just an academic requirement but can also serve as a valuable reference document within organizations, supporting career advancement.
- Expanded Professional Network: During the dissertation process, candidates collaborate with industry experts, expanding their professional connections and creating valuable opportunities for future partnerships.
2. Dissertation Adjustments and Finalization
At this stage, doctoral candidates will focus on refining and finalizing their dissertation to ensure it meets academic and research standards. This involves:
- Reviewing and revising content based on feedback from the supervisor and academic panel.
- Ensuring coherence and logical flow in arguments, analysis, and conclusions.
- Validating data and methodology to strengthen the research’s credibility.
- Formatting and citation checks following APA or Harvard referencing standards.
- Final proofreading to eliminate errors and enhance readability.
This phase is crucial in preparing the dissertation for submission and final defense, ensuring that it is academically rigorous and meets institutional requirements.
Entry requirements & Learning methods
1. Entry Requirements
In addition to the entry requirements, candidates applying to the program are also assessed for their suitability by the admissions committee before joining the program to ensure that they can acquire and benefit from the program.
Entry requirements:
To enroll in this program, learners must be over 24 years old and meet at least one of the following criteria:
- A Master’s qualification in Majors from accredited universities; or
- A Level 7 EQF diploma or equivalent. Level 7 Diploma must be from organizations that are authorized to issue qualifications and have been accredited
English requirements:
If a learner is not from a predominantly English-speaking country, proof of English language proficiency must be provided.
- Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level B2 or equivalent;
- Or A minimum TOEFL score of 101 or IELTS 5.5; Reading and Writing must be at 5.5 or equivalent.
Please note: SIMI reserves the right to make admissions decisions based on the requirements of recognized agencies and the global quotas of the program.
2. Full-Time Study Abroad Model in Switzerland
3. Full-Time Study Abroad Support
The entire support process before, during, and after studying abroad is facilitated by StudyAbroader, a member of SIMI Swiss specializing in student support and care services. Learn more HERE.
Fees and Insurance Policy
1. 100% Refund if Visa is Not Granted
1. Scope of Application
This policy applies to international students enrolling in full-time studies at SIMI Swiss, Zug, Switzerland, who require support in the visa application process.
2. Fee Payment Regulations Before Visa Application
- Students are required to pay 60% of the first-year tuition fees before starting the visa application process.
- This fee includes document processing, acceptance letter issuance, and related administrative procedures to support students in the visa process.
- Visa processing fees are separate from tuition fees, and SIMI Swiss does not collect this fee. Students will be supported in working with a visa service provider and making payments for services (if applicable) and government fees.
3. Refund Cases
Students may request a refund in the following cases:
- Visa is not granted:
- SIMI Swiss will refund 100% of the paid amount after deducting administrative fees (if applicable).
- Students must provide official documentation from the visa issuing authority (visa refusal letter or notification from the Embassy/Consulate).
4. Non-Refundable Cases
SIMI Swiss will not issue refunds in the following cases:
- Visa is granted, but the student decides not to continue studying:
- Students who refuse to enroll after receiving a visa will not be eligible for a refund.
- Incorrect or incomplete information provided:
- If the visa is denied due to false information or incomplete documentation from the student, SIMI Swiss is not responsible for issuing a refund.
- Student withdraws the visa application after the process has started.
2. Tuition & Living Expenses Policy
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees include:
- Academic Program: Courses, examination fees, guest lectures, specialized seminars, and field trips.
- Internship: Evaluated, credited, and recorded in the academic transcript.
- Career Support: Personalized counseling from career experts.
Accommodation
- Standard: Twin rooms with bi-weekly cleaning service, including bed linens and towels.
- Mandatory: Applicable to new students. Third-year undergraduate and postgraduate students may opt out.
- Upgrade Options: Other room types within the campus are available for an additional fee.
- Applicable Period: Not available during Christmas and other holidays.
- Additional Booking: Holiday accommodation is available at CHF 400/week, bookable in advance via reception.
Facilities and Services
Infrastructure Fees
Includes:
- Administrative operations: Admissions, alumni relations, human resources, finance, and IT.
- Logistics and operations: Event organization, depreciation costs, and facility management.
Student Support Services
- Sports Facilities: Access to on-campus sports facilities.
- Academic Guidance: Study support and academic mentoring.
- Health Seminars: Enhancing mental and physical well-being.
- Internship & Career Services: Planning, supervision, and participation in job fairs.
- Digital Resource Center: Access to digital tools and learning materials.
- Alumni Membership: Long-term connection with the alumni network.
Support Upon Arrival in Switzerland
- Airport reception in Geneva.
- Orientation program at the beginning of the course.
- Assistance with residence permit registration.
Additional Costs
- Swiss residence tax and VAT.
Other Benefits
- Uniforms.
- 24/7 security and reception service.
- Swiss student ID issued by the authorities, which can be used as a student discount card.
- Access to other on-campus facilities.
3. Insurance and Other Expenses Policy
Insurance and Social Support
- Health insurance during the study period.
- Student support counseling services.
- Global liability insurance coverage.
Program accreditations
1. Accreditation review guidelines by SIMI Swiss
SIMI is the first higher education institute in Zug, Switzerland, to achieve comprehensive international accreditations at both the organizational and program levels. The video below guides you through the step-by-step process of verifying and checking SIMI Swiss's accreditations and recognitions.
- Watch this video to learn how to verify SIMI Swiss's accreditations and recognitions HERE.
- View the complete accreditation system of SIMI Swiss HERE.
Sample of Doctor of Business Administration:
2. Refer to SIMI Swiss Program information in SVEB Switzerland
SVEB Switzerland (Schweizerischer Verband für Weiterbildung) is the Swiss Federation for Adult Learning and serves as the national umbrella organization for adult education in Switzerland. SVEB is recognized as the leading authority in Switzerland for promoting and supporting lifelong learning and professional development through a wide range of educational programs and certifications.
Benefits of the SIMI Swiss Programs Published in SVEB:
- Officially on the Swiss federal portal: Being published in SVEB gives the SIMI Swiss program official publication in Switzerland, validating its quality and adherence to Swiss educational standards.
- Increased Credibility: Membership and listing with SVEB enhance the credibility of the SIMI program, making it more attractive to prospective students and employers who value SVEB-approved programs.
- Professional Advancement: Programs listed with SVEB are often aligned with the needs of the Swiss job market, increasing graduates' employability and supporting their career progression within Switzerland.
- Access to a Wider Network: Association with SVEB connects the SIMI Swiss program to a broader network of educational institutions, professionals, and employers across Switzerland, offering opportunities for collaboration, networking, and knowledge exchange.
- Compliance with Swiss Standards: SVEB ensures that SIMI Swiss programs meet high educational standards, including up-to-date content, qualified instructors, and effective teaching methods, enhancing the overall learning experience for students.
- Support for Lifelong Learning: SVEB’s focus on adult education means the SIMI Swiss program aligns with lifelong learning principles, supporting students in their ongoing professional development.
Check the SIMI programs on SVEB HERE.
3. Notary Public and Apostille for SIMI Qualifications in Switzerland
Notary Public and Apostille for SIMI Qualifications in Switzerland
In Switzerland, a Notary Public can certify copies of academic degrees and diplomas by verifying their authenticity and confirming that they match the original document. This notarized certification is often required for legal, academic, or professional purposes, such as further studies, job applications, or immigration procedures.
For international use, a notarized degree may also require an Apostille from the relevant Swiss authority (usually the cantonal State Chancellery) to ensure its recognition in countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention.
Sample:
Note: The information provided above is accurate at the time of publication. However, the content is subject to change in accordance with adjustments to the laws of each country and may be updated without prior notice.
4. Accreditation & recognition of OTHM
The DBA program at SIMI Swiss offers a dual degree in partnership with OTHM, the Ofqual UK.Gov awarding body:
- Recognized as an organization by the educational authority of the United Kingdom, Ofqual (UK.Gov). Recognition Number: RN5284. Refer to the recognition information CLICK HERE
- OTHM Level 8 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice is accredited with the Ofqual UK.Gov code 603/6996/6. Refer to the accreditation information CLICK HERE
Reference:
- Guidelines of how to check the recognition of OTHM: CLICK HERE
- The meaning of Level System in the labor market in the context of global labor mobility: CLICK HERE
- The meaning of Level System in global diploma recognition: CLICK HERE
Sample of OTHM Level 8 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice:
Sample Transcript of OTHM Level 8 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice:
You will get
Dual Qualifications
Comprehensive Support
Paid Internship Opportunities
Job Placement
