Are you trying to choose between a DBA and a Master’s by research in the UK? In the UK, a Doctor of Business Administration and a Master’s by Research are distinct postgraduate research degrees with different focuses and career paths.
The DBA is a professional doctorate designed for experienced business leaders and managers to handle real-world business problems. At the same time, the MRes is a research-focused master’s degree that prepares students for PhD studies or research roles.
In this blog, we will discuss the DBA programme and the difference between DBA and Master by Research in the UK.
What is a DBA?
The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program is designed to help government and business leaders gain the skills they need for advanced roles in business or public administration.
This program teaches two new, practical learning methods that are used worldwide: Action Learning and Action Research. Unlike a PhD, which focuses on academic theory, a DBA emphasises solving real-world business problems through research.
Shortly, DBA is the best option for professionals aiming for executive leadership while applying research to practice.
Check Your Eligibility!
Key Features of Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA)
Most of the international students are not aware of a Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) program. However, let’s explore the key features of the DBA program in the UK.
- Focus on applied research in business
- Designed for working professionals
- Typically part-time over 3–6 years
- Requires significant managerial experience
- Combines coursework and research project
Why Choose a DBA in the UK?
You should choose a DBA in the UK if you want to blend research with leadership in business environments. You can also choose the DBA in the UK if:
- You have 5+ years of leadership experience
- You want to solve real business challenges through research
- You aim for executive roles, consultancy, or management education
- You prefer applied over theoretical research
What is a Master’s by Research (MRes)?
A Master’s by research is a postgraduate degree that is entirely dependent on independent research. Students complete a single extended research project under supervision,
finishing a thesis.
At the end of your studies, you’ll write a thesis of up to 40,000 words. Like all research degrees, there are two steps to finishing: your thesis is examined, and then you have an oral exam called a viva.
You can complete your Master’s by Research full-time or part-time, either on campus or remotely, if your research allows it. It usually takes one year full-time or two years part-time and is available in most subject areas.
Key Features of an MRes Degree in the UK
Most of the students are afraid of the MRes program as it requires practical learning and a thesis. However, MRes is now the only option to bring your dependents to the UK. Let’s explore the key features of the MRes degree in the UK.
- Research-focused (little or no taught coursework)
- Completed in 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time
- Acts as a bridge to PhD studies
- Involves writing a 20,000–40,000-word thesis
Why Choose MRes in the UK?
According to the new rule of the UK student visa, International students can’t bring their dependents to the UK unless they are in a research program. However, there are some other reasons for choosing an MRes program in the UK, if:
- You’re considering a PhD or academic career
- You enjoy independent, theoretical research
- You prefer shorter study duration and lower cost
- You aim to build foundational research skills
DBA Vs Master’s by Research in the UK
Many students don’t understand the difference between DBA and Master by Research. So, here we have pointed out some points so that you can get a clear concept about these two programmes.
| DBA | Master by Research |
| DBA is for industrial practitioners and working professionals | Master’s by Research is for academics and researchers |
| DBA requires appropriate executive or managerial experience | It does not require practical work experience |
| Duration: 6 years | Duration: 1-2 years |
| DBA degrees focus on using theoretical knowledge to improve business practices | A Master’s by Research degree lets you work on an independent research project under supervision |
Requirements for DBA and Master’s by Research in the UK for International Students
Do you know the eligibility criteria for a DBA and Master’s by Research in the UK? International students require some eligibility criteria to apply for these degrees. Let’s explore the requirements for DBA and Master by Research in the UK for international students.
Eligibility Criteria for DBA in the UK
DBA courses in the UK are specially for the business professionals, so the requirements for a DBA programme in the UK is high. Such as-
- A master’s degree with merit or an equivalent to MBA or recognised qualification
- Five years’ experience in managerial or leadership roles
- Satisfactory research proposal that is aligned with the university expertise
- IELTS overall minimum 6.0, not less than 5.5
Eligibility Criteria for a MRes in the UK
To apply for a MRes in the UK, students should usually have a UK 2:1 Honours degree or something similar. If you have other relevant qualifications or experience, the university might accept that as equivalent.
International applicants need to show either a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (with at least 5.5 in reading and writing) or have recently completed a Master’s degree from an English-speaking country. Keep in mind that some subjects might need a higher IELTS score.
Cost of a DBA and Master’s by Research Programme in the UK
The cost of a DBA and Master by Research programme in the UK is higher than any general master’s programme in the UK for international students.
International Tuition Fees for a DBA Degree in the UK
Though the cost of a DBA can vary from university to university, the average tuition fees range of a business doctorate in the UK £12,458-£16,005 per year.
International Tuition Fees for a Master’s by Research Degree in the UK
The average tuition fee for a Master’s by Research Degree in the UK ranges between £18,500-£30,000 per year.
| Program | Cost |
| DBA | £12,458-£16,005 per year |
| Master by Research | £18,500-£30,000 per year |
Popular Universities in the UK for the DBA Programme
DBA is a completely new programme for international students. However, many popular universities in the UK offer Doctorate in Business Administration programmes for international students. Such as-
- London Metropolitan University
- University of Gloucestershire
- University of Strathclyde
- Northumbria University etc.
Popular Universities in the UK for Master’s by Research Programme
Many universities in the UK offer Master’s by Research programmes for international students. Such as-
- University of Roehampton London
- London Metropolitan University
- London South Bank University
- Northumbria University
- Birmingham City University
- University of South Wales etc.
Career Prospects in the UK: DBA Vs MRes
Both the DBA and MRes are postgraduate research program that helps international students to prepare for a PhD degree or to solve real-time problems through analysis. However, career opportunities for a DBA graduate and an MRes graduate are huge. Let’s explore them:
| Career opportunities of DBA | Career Opportunities of MRes | Expected Salary |
| C-suite executive positions | Research assistant | DBA salary range- £70,000+ depending on sector |
| Business consultant | PhD student | |
| Management educator | Academic researcher | MRes salary range- £25,000–£40,000 initially |
| Policy advisor | Policy researcher | |
| Research-driven leadership roles | Analyst roles in research-heavy industries |
Can you apply for a DBA or Master’s by Research Programme with dependents?
According to the UK student visa new rule, international students are not allowed to bring dependents with them; however, there is an exception for research students. If you are undertaking a PhD or other doctoral qualification or a research-based higher degree (such as a Master’s by Research, MRes), you can still bring your dependents with you.
Pros and Cons of DBA Vs MRes Degree in the UK
Are you still wondering between the DBA and a Master’s with Research degree in the UK. No worries, may be the pros and cons of both programs may clear your confusion.
| Pros of DBA Vs MRes | |
| DBA | MRes |
| Executive-level qualification | Shorter & cheaper |
| Applied research focus | Direct pathway to PhD |
| Networking with senior professionals | Focused on academic research |
| Cons of DBA vs MRes | |
| DBA | MRes |
| Higher cost | Limited career progression without a PhD |
| Longer duration | Less suited for business leadership roles |
| Requires significant experience | |
Final words
The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is the next step after getting a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Many DBA programs also require applicants to have several years of management experience before they can join.WE hope, this guidance has provide a clear insight into DBA and MRes which one is better. However, as an international student more confusion may arise.
We can relate how many thoughts are pooping up in your mind at this moment. However, we are always at your service. Need personalised guidance? Contact AIMS Education today to explore your best study options in the UK!
FAQ
Is DBA easier than Phd?
Ans: Both the PhD and DBA degrees give you the title of “Doctor” and are equally respected and recognized worldwide. Neither degree is considered less important or prestigious; they just have different purposes and focus on different goals.
Is a DBA worth it in the UK?
Ans: DBA is a prestigious degree and you’ll get the opportunity to study a DBA programme in the UK with an affordable tuition fee.
How Long Does it Take to Get a DBA Degree?
Ans: A DBA programme in the UK typically lasts 6 years and it focuses more on practical in contrast to Ph.D.
How much does a DBA cost in the UK?
Ans: The average tuition fee for a Master’s by Research Degree in the UK ranges between £18,500-£30,000.
Is DBA higher than MBA?
Ans: Yes, to obtain a DBA degree, you must complete your MBA or a master’s degree.
How many years is a doctorate?
Ans: A doctorate typically takes four to six years to complete.
Is a Master’s by Research better?
Ans: A research master’s lets you have more control over your schedule and focus on the topics you care about most.
What is the difference between a Master’s and a master’s by research?
Ans: A Master’s by Research (M by Res) degree lets you work on an independent research project under supervision on a topic you choose and that is approved. At the end of your studies, you’ll write a thesis of up to 40,000 words.
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