University of South Africa DBL Programme Information

DBL programme information

Doctor of Business Leadership Curriculum

The curriculum comprises a proposal followed by a thesis as per the prescribed timetable on an approved topic. The students must attend at least four colloquia to submit reports on the following:

1. Research proposal idea
2. Approved research proposal and extensive literature review
3. Research methodology
4. Research results (findings)

Satisfactory progress must be demonstrated at the colloquia to ensure re-registration.

DBL Colloquia
At least three colloquia are held every year to provide open discussion of a candidate’s presentations on his/her research progress. It is strongly recommended that all registered doctoral candidates attend these colloquia since they provide opportunities for constructive interaction between academics and candidates.

STAGE 1: Research proposal module (24 Credits)
After registration, candidates must attend compulsory research proposal module workshops. For candidates residing in South Africa, research proposal module workshops are conducted over weekends, for a period of six months. For international candidates, dates for the workshops will be communicated.

• Colloquium: Research proposal idea and literature overview

STAGE 2: Full thesis module and colloquia (336 Credits)
This includes compulsory presentations at three colloquia and the writing of the thesis.

• First colloquium: Approved research proposal and extensive literature overview
• Second colloquium: Research methodology
• Third colloquium: Presentation of the research results, which entails the successful defence of the final results

Completion of Degree
Candidates will have a minimum of two years and a maximum of six years in which to complete the DBL degree successfully.