Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.) in Paris | EMA

Doctorate of Business Administration (D.B.A.)

Course Overview

The Doctorate of Business Administration (D.B.A.) offered by École de Management Appliqué is considered a European highest-level qualification – Level 8 programme. This D.B.A. programme in France emphasises practical learning and writing an original research paper that contributes to the industry. It involves the creative application of existing knowledge to real world situations.

The D.B.A. programme is designed to prepare students for senior leadership positions, high-level consulting positions, or academic careers. The programme combines rigorous academic research with real-world application to enable professionals to become thought leaders in their respective fields. It encourages scholars to pursue independent research in areas where they possess prior expertise, such as marketing, finance, technology or operations. Thereby enhancing both their personal development and their contribution to the business world.

 

Course structure

1st year:Research Plan, 2nd year: Submission of a Pre-Thesis, 3rd year: Final Thesis and Defense

Awarded degree

Doctorate of Business Administration (D.B.A.)

Language

English

Pre-requisites

Postgraduate Degree (BAC +5)/Equivalent

Duration

Three years/1350 hours

Credits

180 ECTS

Tuition fees

€7,000/year

Intake

January / September

Key Highlights

Students who pursue a Doctorate of Business Administration (D.B.A.) in France will be able to:

Learn different research techniques and develop research proficiency

Strengthen their ability to publish in academic and professional journals

Apply academic theory to solve real-world business challenges

Gain a comprehensive understanding of global business practices

Enhance strategic thinking and advanced leadership capabilities

Build a strong professional network with peers and industry experts

Curriculum 2025/2026

Doctorate of Business Administration (D.B.A.) 

Doctorate of Business Administration (D.B.A.) - 180 ECTS

The D.B.A. business degree is a three-year programme divided into six semesters. It is specially designed for corporate executives and managers aiming to deepen their understanding of business administration in a global context and enhance their career prospects.

The curriculum provides a comprehensive and practical D.B.A. experience in France, combining academic research with real-world business applications.

Core course structure: 

  • Introduction to quantitative and qualitative research methods
  • Legal and ethical frameworks for research
  • Organisational theories and designs
  • Planning a research project, developing a research/project proposal

Specialised units:

  • Strategic management: theory and practice
  • International economy and finance management
  • Business ethics and corporate responsibility
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Business innovation and transformation
  • Advanced research methods for business management
  • Management strategy and operations in a global context
  • Advanced project management

Assessment methods:

  • 50% continuous assessment.
  • 50% end-of-semester exams (exam, open-book exam, or in-class assignment).

During this programme, students are required to complete a 10,000-word mini-thesis or an industry-based project equivalent to 50 ECTS, guided through one-to-one and group supervision sessions. The final project is assessed entirely through continuous assessment, ensuring a consistent progress and feedback process.

EMA uses participatory and interactive teaching methods which actively engage students in learning. Real-time industry references and hands-on case study analyses help bridge theory with professional practice.

Programme benefits

The D.B.A. programme offers a transformative experience for executives and professionals seeking to advance in their careers. Graduates benefit from enhanced professional credibility, expanded networking opportunities with an international cohort and the ability to drive innovation and organisational change.

 Pursuing a D.B.A. with École de Management Appliqué offers a personalised learning experience with small class sizes, fostering tailored academic supervision and collaborative exchange. Located in the heart of Paris, the programme provides access to industry insights and global business connections through its prime location within Europe's largest economic hub.

Internationally recognised programme

Strategic decision making

Career advancement

Global market exposure

Leadership development

Boost your career with a D.B.A. programme in Paris. Unlock leadership excellence, drive innovation and join a global network of industry leaders.

Entry Requirements

Academic Qualification documents

General Requirements

To be considered for admission to our doctoral programme, applicants must meet the following general requirements:

  • Hold a strong master's degree, or an MBA, with a dissertation or project. Diplomas are not accepted.
  • The qualification must be relevant to the research subject, such as business administration, finance, or law.
  • Demonstrate English language proficiency with an IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent.
  • Submit a letter of intent explaining your motivation for applying to our doctoral programme.
  • Answer the Research Intention Questions for the DBA and the Research Project Questions for the PhD.
  • Pass an interview conducted by the head of School.

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Fees and Funding / Scholarship

 

Programme during : Three years/1350 hours 
Credits : 180 ECTS
Language : English
Tuition Fees : €7,000 per year
Course structure : First year: Research Plan, Second year: Submission of a Pre-Thesis, Third year: Final Thesis and Defense
Awarded degree: Doctorate  of Business Administration (D.B.A.)
Intake : January / September

 

Scholarship

At École de Management Appliqué, we prioritise quality education. We are actively looking for students who are passionate about becoming business leaders and making a difference in this competitive world. If you are one of them, then we would love to hear from you.


We are offering scholarships for upcoming intakes, ensuring that talented individuals excel academically and professionally.

You can receive a scholarship of up to 25% for the September 2025 intake, covering your first year's tuition fees. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence or outstanding achievements in extracurricular activities.

Note: The scholarships are exclusively available for the 2025 intake only

Inquire now for more!

The Foundation Of Your Career

The graduates of the Doctorate of Business Administration (D.B.A.) can explore a variety of roles, including: 

CEO (Chief Executive Officer)

Management Consultant

Senior Executive

Entrepreneur

Academic Professor

Director of Operations

Enrol with École de Management Appliqué now

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Why should I pursue a D.B.A. in Paris?

Paris offers world-class business schools and a vibrant business environment, making it an ideal location to pursue a doctorate in business administration in Paris. 

Typically, students must have a Postgraduate Degree (BAC +5)/Equivalent degree. For more information, contact the team at École de Management Appliqué. 

A PhD is more theoretical and academic-focused, while a D.B.A. in France is geared towards practical business problems and professional practice. 

Yes, École de Management Appliqué offers D.B.A. programmes in France, which are taught in English. 

Yes, international students can apply for the D.B.A. programme in Paris. Connect with our team to learn more about the admission process and eligibility.