DBA FAQ's

For enquiries contact:  bsapplications@mandela.ac.za

Applications for 2024 will commence in May 2023.

Please see below for some answers to frequently asked questions:

What are the fees?

South African students: Please see the fees outline.
International students: Please contact the Office for International Education on international@mandela.ac.za for international fees.

How much will the program cost in total?

We can unfortunately not estimate this cost as it all depends on the student and how long it will take for an individual student to complete his/her DBA Coursework (ProDBA).

How long will the application process take before I will have a final answer?

Approximately six weeks from submission of a completed application.

What is the first step in the application process?

Please see the How to Apply link or contact us on bsapplications@mandela.ac.za for more information. Please ensure you indicate if you are a South African or International Student.

How many times will I have to visit the Nelson Mandela University Business School Campus/South Africa?

Please view the DBA Coursework (ProDBA) Curriculum link. You will note that the first year of the ProDBA is offered as Block Release classes. There are three study blocks in the first year. Due to COVID-19-related restrictions, the degree will be offered virtually (2022). If face-to-face (F2F) contact is allowed in the future, a blended approach of both F2F will be followed.

Can I consult with a potential supervisor before submitting my preliminary proposal?

No, unfortunately not. Doctoral candidates must illustrate their ability to work independently. Candidates must demonstrate commitment and rigour before embarking on a doctoral study.

Do you accept previously earned graduate credit into this programme?

We do not accept previously earned credits.

How quickly can the programme be completed?

It is possible to complete the degree in two - three years depending on the performance of both the student and supervisor.

Is the DBA a recognized official doctoral degree in Europe and Asia?

The DBA Coursework (ProDBA) is an internationally recognised doctoral degree. The degree is also recognised by the South African Council of Higher Education (CHE). All CHE-accredited doctorates in South Africa are internationally recognised, therefore our DBA is internationally accredited. In addition, our DBA is accredited by the European Doctoral Programmes Association for Management and Business Administration (EDAMBA).

I can’t obtain an academic reference letter, what now?

A qualification reference letter will suffice in such cases. However, as far as possible a candidate must endeavour to source a recommendation letter from his/her previous M or D supervisor.

Can I receive credits for modules completed in other qualifications on a Masters level?

The Higher Education Qualification Committee (HEQC) allows accredited MBA programmes to only afford credits for MBA modules completed on another accredited MBA Programme. As an institution, we can offer only up to 50% of credits for modules done elsewhere.