Teaching methods

‍Online learning offers flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace and convenience, whether at home or on the go, as long as you have internet access.Our courses are delivered via a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), ensuring you have 24/7 access to study materials. These include:

• Multimedia lectures featuring videos, animations, audio, and interactive content
• Discussion forums for peer interaction
• Live seminars and Q&A sessions with tutors
• A comprehensive eLibrary of textbooks and journals
• Continuous support from academic staff and a dedicated Student Support team

Assessments

‍Assessment methods vary depending on the course, but most modules are evaluated through an assignment at the end of the module. These assignments may include written reports, reflective journals, live presentations, or other types of submissions depending on the course requirements.

We are committed to providing clear and timely feedback. You will always be aware of your current provisional grade through our transparent grading system, accessible at any time via the learning platform. Additionally, we offer a 7-day turnaround for marking and feedback. Regular support from both academic staff and the Student Support team is also available to help address any concerns throughout the assessment process.
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Online learning experience

‍Your learning experience will be fully supported by high-quality materials and resources, all delivered through our advanced Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). You'll engage in a combination of directed and self-directed learning, as well as assessments, to build your knowledge and skills.

Directed learning includes tutor-led discussions, live seminars, interactive exercises, and multimedia content such as videos and lecturecasts. You’ll also have the opportunity to book appointments with tutors during their office hours.

Self-directed learning involves independent research, wider reading, and further exploration of the subject area to enhance your understanding.

In addition, you'll spend time preparing and completing assignments that contribute to your overall assessment. Typically, you should dedicate 15-20 hours per module, per week to stay on track.
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Assessments

‍Assessment within the DBA programme is fully coursework-based and designed to support professional doctoral candidates in developing independent, critical research relevant to business and leadership contexts. In Critical Thinking in Doctoral Research, students are assessed through structured article critiques and book reviews, applying critical thinking and research evaluation techniques. The emphasis is on evaluating study design, methodology, and research findings, with activities encouraging reflection, synthesis, and analytical writing.

In Dissertation 1, assessment focuses on the formulation and defence of a research proposal. Students are guided through identifying a research problem, reviewing literature, defining methodology, and producing a fully developed dissertation proposal, which is presented for formal evaluation.

In Dissertation 2, students move into the final stages of the doctoral thesis, including Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, data collection, analysis, manuscript writing, and an oral defence. Assessment culminates in the submission of a completed dissertation and a successful viva voce examination. Across modules, grading prioritises clarity, academic integrity, adherence to APA formatting, and the demonstration of advanced critical, analytical, and writing skills.
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