Integrated Doctor of Business Administration (Releasing Soon)

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Italy Italy
CIQ logo
United Kingdom UK
CMI logo
United Kingdom UK

270 Credits (ECTS)

Integrated Doctor of Business Administration

UniAthena's Integrated Doctor of Business Administration (IDBA), delivered in partnership with Guglielmo Marconi University, Italy, offers a unique opportunity to earn both an International MBA and DBA through a single academic journey. Designed for ambitious professionals, the program combines the practical business leadership, strategic management, and decision-making expertise of an MBA with the advanced research, thought leadership, and executive influence of a DBA. 

Upon completion, learners graduate with dual credentials that strengthen career advancement, enhance consulting and leadership credibility, and equip them to solve complex business challenges through research-driven insights. 

  • Earn the Dual Degree - a Master of International Business Administration (IMBA) along with Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from Guglielmo Marconi University (GMU), Italy, and a Postgraduate Diploma in International Business & Strategy from Cambridge International Qualifications (CIQ), UK. Learners also have the option to earn the Certified Manager certification (optional) from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), UK.
  • Guglielmo Marconi University is accredited by the Italian Ministry of Education and is part of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). The university is also internationally known for its academic research and commitment to innovation in higher education.
  • This 270 ECTS integrated pathway combines 90 ECTS of master-level study with 180 ECTS of doctoral-level learning and research.
  • Through a structured progression from management education to independent doctoral research, learners develop the expertise required to influence business strategy, organizational transformation, and executive decision-making.
  • Delivered 100% online, the program includes self-paced learning, academic guidance, research supervision, and flexible study schedules.

Course Fee

Fastrack Plan

Course Registration Fees

$2000 (On Approval Of Application For The Course)

Course Fee

$15500 (To be paid on a monthly basis, $388 for the first 39 Months and $368 for the 40th month, Total 40 Installments)

Total Fees

$17500

CMI Certification Fees

$300 (Optional)

M.Res Certification

$1500 (Optional)

Admission Requirement

Academic route

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university (or academic equivalent) in any subject.

Work Experience

If you don’t have a Bachelor’s degree, you can apply through our mature entry route. You’ll need to provide evidence of 3 years (Minimum) of relevant managerial work experience, along with certificates of your highest diplomas/degrees/professional certifications and an updated resume. Applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Please send these details to [email protected]. Applicants should be 23 years of age or above. Admission through Mature Entry Route will be subject to the discretion of the UniAthena and the respective Awarding Bodies/Universities.

English Language Proficiency

If you are not a native speaker, you should have an appropriate English proficiency level, e.g. an IELTS score of 5.5 or equivalent in all bands or possess a Bachelor’s degree delivered and assessed in English, or proof of work experience in an English-speaking environment.

Why UniAthena?

Flexible

At UniAthena, you are in charge of your learning! You get to decide the pace of your learning based on your financial and time availability. The learning structure is modular, ensuring pace, effectiveness and momentum of your learning journey. With this byte-sized learning format you get to learn anywhere, anytime.

Affordable

With UniAthena as your learning partner, you follow a ‘Pay as you Go Scheme’ for your program, that means no upfront bulk payment of your fee. Instead, your fee will be divided into small pocket-friendly installments distributed across your program.

Accredited & Globally Accepted

UniAthena has partnered with reputed Universities and Awarding bodies, all of which are fully accredited by governmental regulatory bodies in their respective countries. Universities are NARIC Approved and are part of European Higher education, Bologna process, making the programs recognised worldwide.

Stackable

Byte-sized learning formats ensure that each learning item carries tangible value in terms of learning outcome, which allows learners to stack or combine small units into higher education credits toward a degree or diploma. At any point of time during your course, you can claim a certificate/diploma based on the credits you have earned so far.

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Certification

IMBA Certification, Doctor Certification, PG Diploma, CMI Certification
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Awarding Body Accredited By

Ministry of Education, Italy
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Learning

Online

Course Fees

Fastrack Plan

$17500

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What You Get

You will be receiving the following certificates as specified below:

All certificate and transcript images are for illustrative purposes only and may be subject to change at the discretion of respective Universities or Awarding Bodies.

What You Learn

Module 1

Strategic Leadership and HR Practices in Organisations

Strategic Leadership & HR Practices in Organizations

Duration: 21 - 60 Days

This module helps to learn the role of strategic HRM and leadership practices and their influence on the overall performance and competence of the organization.

21 - 60 Days

Level: EQF Level 7

Credits: 10 ECTS Credits

Module 2

Operations and Project Management

Operation and Project Management

Duration: 21 - 60 Days

The module provides an introduction to a broad range of operations and project management problems, tools, and knowledge that managers face in modern organizations.

21 - 60 Days

Level: EQF Level 7

Credits: 10 ECTS Credits

Module 3

Strategic Management

Strategic Management & Leadership

Duration: 21 - 60 Days

The module develops skills for strategic thinking and analysis, leadership, communication, teamwork, and cross-functional integration.

21 - 60 Days

Level: EQF Level 7

Credits: 10 ECTS Credits

Module 4

Accounting for Next Generation Leaders

Accounting for Next Generation Leaders

Duration: 21 - 60 Days

The module covers analysis and interpretation of financial statements of contemporary firms, cost classification, investment appraisal and budgeting of an organisation.

21 - 60 Days

Level: EQF Level 7

Credits: 10 ECTS Credits

Module 5

International Marketing Management

International Marketing Management

Duration: 21 - 60 Days

This module demonstrates knowledge and understanding of contemporary theories and their applications in the research field of international marketing and management.

21 - 60 Days

Level: EQF Level 7

Credits: 10 ECTS Credits

Module 6

Sustainability and Business

Sustainability and Business

Duration: 21 - 60 Days

This module examines how organizations align with sustainability goals, addressing economic and social issues through CSR. It focuses on innovation, biodiversity, and closed-loop supply chains, while reviewing global sustainability challenges and opportunities.

21 - 60 Days

Level: EQF Level 7

Credits: 10 ECTS Credits

Module 7

Strategic Supply Chain and Logistics Management

Strategic Supply Chain and Logistics Management

Duration: 21 - 60 Days

This module supports strategic decision-makers as well as operational managers to manage successful logistics across their business.

21 - 60 Days

Level: EQF Level 7

Credits: 10 ECTS Credits

Module 8

Research Methods

Research Methods

Duration: 21 - 60 Days

This module emphasizes research ethics, empowering learners to address ethical considerations and enable independent research using quantitative and qualitative techniques.

21 - 60 Days

Level: EQF Level 7

Credits: 8 ECTS Credits

Module 9

Research and Dissertation

Research and Dissertation

Duration: 3 - 6 Months

This module develops students' ability to undertake independent research, exploring complex business issues using appropriate methodologies, and equips them to apply research findings effectively within real-world organisational and managerial settings.

3 - 6 Months

Level: EQF Level 7

Credits: 12 ECTS Credits

Module 10

Applied Research in Management

Applied Research in Management

Duration: 60 Days

This module develops doctoral-level skills in identifying research topics, designing ethical management projects, and understanding contemporary business challenges.

60 Days

Level: EQF Level 8

Credits: 10 ECTS Credits

Module 11

Foundations of Research Design

Foundations of Research Design (Exempt)

Duration: 60 Days

Equips learners with core research methodologies, from philosophy to data analysis, enabling them to design rigorous business research projects.

60 Days

Level: EQF Level 8

Credits: 10 ECTS Credits

Module 12

General Management

General Management

Duration: 60 Days

Introduces vital general management concepts, including leadership theories, stakeholder management, and change management, with practical applications for business practice.

60 Days

Level: EQF Level 8

Credits: 10 ECTS Credits

Module 13

Research Feasibility Study

Research Feasibility Study (Exempt)

Duration: 120 Days

Enables learners to conduct a pilot study, test research feasibility, and refine research methods, establishing a solid foundation for the DBA thesis.

120 Days

Level: EQF Level 8

Credits: 20 ECTS Credits

Module 14

Applied Doctoral Research Proposal

Applied Doctoral Research Proposal

Duration: 60 Days

Supports the creation of a comprehensive research proposal, offering practical guidance to advance toward the DBA thesis phase.

60 Days

Level: EQF Level 8

Credits: 10 ECTS Credits

Module 15

Applied Doctoral Research Thesis

Applied Doctoral Research Thesis

Duration: 2 Years

This module culminates in a doctoral-level thesis and viva voce defense, supported by supervision and workshops, leading to the DBA degree award.

2 Years

Level: EQF Level 8

Credits: 120 ECTS Credits

Ready to Start ?

It is really easy to start with us. You can register for this course with minimum details and get access to one of the modules of this course for 7 days.

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Partners of this Programme

Guglielmo Marconi University (GMU) is based in Rome, Italy and it is the first Italian Open University recognized by the Italian Ministry of Education, University and Research (MIUR). It appears among the 25 top performers worldwide in the categories of the U-Multirank ranking system for open-access publications, international joint publications, and regional joint publications.


Cambridge International Qualifications (CIQ), UK, is a professional awarding body based in the United Kingdom. CIQ is founded on the vision of helping individual learners and employers in attaining quality accredited awards. With centers across the Middle East, Europe, and the African region, CIQ is a proud certification partner for more than 100 organizations and has a progression pathway with some of the leading universities across the world.


Chartered Management Institute, backed by royal charter is the only Chartered body dedicated to promoting the highest standards in management and leadership excellence. CMI’s management qualifications are recognized throughout the UK and Europe and provide a progressive framework that enables one to develop and broaden management skills. Their qualifications are designed in consultation with employers to meet today's demands and therefore it is valued by them.


Message from Rector

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We welcome the learners of UniAthena to our qualifications and wish them the very best on their future endeavours.

Prof. Alessandra Briganti

Guglielmo Marconi University, modelled around education and research, promotes innovative ICT-based educational methodologies, stimulating learners to develop high cognitive and practical competencies. The strong point of this educational system is the focus on the current educational demands required by the ever-changing working environment. By considering these developments, GMU offers learners high-quality market-oriented courses. We have been continuously growing our presence around the world through many strategic partnerships during past years and the Westford Education Group was the one of the major partnerships which has been very successful since 2015.

UniAthena is a new venture of Westford Education Group. A future-ready education solution, UniAthena utilizes the latest technology aimed at improving the learners experience. We are happy to have partnered for this new project and are eager to expand our partnership into different domains. The association with Westford Group has produced hundreds of graduates in past years and we look forward to enhancing the portfolio and providing accessibility to education around the world.

We welcome the learners of UniAthena to our qualifications and wish them the very best on their future endeavours.

Message from Dean

We believe in developing highest standard of education for all our students.

Dean

Dr. Rainer Masera

GMU Business School, Italy

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What Our Students Say About Us

Our students speak about their learning experience at UniAthena, how the courses sharpened their management skills and the support they received at every stage.

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Admission Process

Please find below the detailed steps to be followed as a part of the admission process.

Why This Course ?

Course Resources

For more detailed information about the course, please click on the link/links below.

Why This Course ?

1

Executive-to-Doctoral Pathway

Progress seamlessly from advanced business management studies to doctoral-level applied research within a single integrated program. 

2

Research That Creates Business Value

Move beyond theory and investigate real organizational challenges through applied research that contributes directly to professional practice and strategic decision-making.

3

Affordability at the Forefront

At UniAthena, we strive to offer economic learning opportunities. Our online IDBA program features affordable tuition along with a ‘pay-as-you-go’ option, providing financial flexibility.

How You Learn ?

Engage with a scientifically developed learning pedagogy that ensures a quality and effective journey for the learners. Enjoy a seamless learning experience tailored to your level of expertise on the subject matter.

Course Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Learners wishing to be admitted to the IDBA Program should satisfy the following requirements:

1. Possess a Bachelor’s degree in any subject.
2. If you are not a native speaker, you should have an appropriate English proficiency level, e.g. an IELTS score of 5. 5 or equivalent in all bands or possess a bachelor’s degree delivered and assessed in English, or proof of work experience in an English-speaking environment.
3. Applicants without a Bachelor’s degree will be considered on a case-by-case basis if they have relevant managerial experience of not less than 3 years.

Once the learner has successfully completed his IMBA, which can be done in minimum of 9 months, learners will be eligible to enroll to the DBA Program.

Yes, the program is structured to accommodate the busy schedules of full-time professionals with a strong support system that is highly flexible. Though the course duration is 42 months, the learner can complete it within  48 months. It depends on the time the learners has to invest for the research.

Follow these steps to formally enroll into the IDBA program:

1. Register for the course from this course page and set your password.
2. Login to your Learning Portal.
3. Click on the Application Link provided in the header menu in your student dashboard and submit the application.
4. The academic panel will evaluate your application and will issue the offer letter if you are eligible and the documents are complete.
5. On receiving the ‘Admission Offer Letter’, you pay the registration fee of $2000. Once the registration fee is received, the institute will issue the letter of admission, and you can start with your first module.

All applicants are required to upload the following documents in order to be eligible for admission:

1. Proof of having earned a Bachelor’s Degree - such as a Degree Certificate. If the documents are not in English, official translations should be submitted.
2. The final transcript of Bachelor’s Degree.
3. A copy of the government-issued photo identity card.
4. If you do not have a Bachelor’s degree, you can still apply through the mature entry route. You will have to upload an updated resume along with the relevant work experience letters issued by your employer/s. You may also be contacted by our faculty for a telephone interview in order to ascertain your eligibility for the program.

Yes, learners can apply for credit exemptions for the program based on previous work experience or educational qualification under Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APCL) and Accreditation of Prior Certified Learning (APEL) respectively.

Yes, you don’t need to finalize your research topic to start the course. You may need to finalize the broad subject area of interest and the program team will advise you about your chosen theme and assist you in finding a sustainable research topic. The final research topic should be approved prior to starting the final research.

After enrolling in a particular program or receiving the admission letter, we are unable to offer refunds as per our policy. However, prior to enrollment, all learners have the option to utilize the free trial period, which lasts between 3 to 7 days.

The Referral Policy is a UniAthena initiative to make our programs more  affordable to the learners. Learners can  share programs with  friends, family or even peers. If the Invitee enrolls for the suggested program, the next module is made free of charge.

Yes. Students may request a course transfer by submitting an application to the Academic Department. Upon approval, the transfer will be processed. A USD 300 course transfer fee applies for programs such as MBA, Master’s, Bachelor’s, and DBA, while a USD 100 transfer fee applies for transfers between Microcredit courses.

The DBA is an executive-level program designed for working professionals possessing extensive managerial experience as well as a master’s certification, who are looking to advance further in their career. DBA has both rigor and relevance as it contributes to theory, practice and research in business and management. The DBA program is a full-fledged Doctoral certification, but unlike the PhD, it is geared towards honing capabilities in the professional sphere. PhD programs are usually meant for those interested in pursuing research based careers in academia.

Each learner will be provided with a Personal Tutor for each module to whom he/she can connect for any academic assistance for that module. You can also schedule a one to one live session with your personal tutor. For pastoral (non-academic)support, you can connect with your learners experience executive on call/Whatsapp or mail ([email protected]) and get your issue resolved.

The core resources of the program are video classes and related reading materials. The video lessons and reading materials will provide you with adequate knowledge to understand the module content.

Additionally, you will also be learning from webinars, the online library, additional learning materials and case studies curated by faculty.

It is possible to extend the duration for an extra year with an additional fee.

Under any unforeseen circumstances, if a learner wants to withdraw from the program before completing IMBA, he/she may apply for an Early Exit Award. The exit award fee for the IDBA program is USD 1,000, with USD 500 refundable if the student rejoins the course.

Based on the credit earned and modules completed in the IMBA program, you might receive a credit statement or a diploma, or an extended diploma by paying the certification fee. He/she will be able to resume the course at a later date by re-enrolling and may resume from where you stopped, depending on the availability of that particular course at the time of re-enrollment.

If the learner wants to leave the course midway through research or at the start of the research, he/she will have an option to choose for an Exit Award, that is, Master of Research in Management. Exit award fee is applicable.

It is a combination of the IMBA and DBA programs. Combining both provides an easier path to achieving your higher education goals and makes the process more seamless, as you can complete both programs in one continuous journey rather than pursuing your master degree first and then searching for suitable doctoral options. Additionally, you benefit from the guidance of experienced faculty members throughout the program.

The IDBA enables you to earn an MBA and DBA in just 3.5 years through Guglielmo Marconi University (GMU) while continuing your career. You'll also receive complementary qualifications, such as a Postgraduate Diploma and Certified Manager certification (optional), making it a faster and more efficient pathway than pursuing these qualifications separately. As an early exit option, students who successfully complete Modules 1–5 of the DBA will be awarded a Master of Research in Management from Guglielmo Marconi University, Italy.

In a small span of time, You can aim for a higher career jump which requires higher academic qualifications. Is there any better investment than investing in yourself!

All topics are accepted as long as your research is connected to management. You can choose from a variety of fields such as HR, finance, marketing, organizational behavior, international business, strategy and others.