Developing higher level skills and competencies for business in Australia : first understand the DBA and its candidates

The Australian economy requires high level research skills for its continued development, and doctorally-qualified people supply much of that talent. The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a relatively recent qualification that contributes to new knowledge in the context of professional practice. However, there is scant information on Australian DBA programs and the backgrounds and needs of DBA candidates. The research reported here throws light on the current situation for DBA programs in Australia and is part of a wider two-year study into DBA supervision funded by the Australian Government’s Office of Learning and Teaching. The research is informed by social capital theory, socialisation theory and a theory of knowledge production. Interviews with program directors and candidates offer a contemporary picture of the DBA in Australia. Issues highlighted relate to the stature of the DBA in the academy, its relevance and links to industry and the backgrounds and challenges faced by candidates.