Course Summary
The DBA programme focuses on the application of theoretical knowledge to the advancement of management and business practice, and is designed to develop the analytical, conceptual, and critical thinking skills of senior business and management professionals.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
This programme is intended to meet the strong demand for professionals who have completed a high level of training in management and business-related areas, and who possess highly developed skills in undertaking research. Applicants should also display a competence in solving problems analytically and in separating opportunities and challenges in terms of cause and effect. Specifically, we look for:
MBA (or equivalent Master degree)
Five years management experience, ideally at senior level
Applicants whose first language is not English must submit evidence of competency in English, please see SETU’s English Language Requirements for details. International applicants may need to verify if a study visa is required and associated eligibility in the context of the DBA programme being a part-time programme.
Application Details
Application Deadline 28 Aug 2026
How to Apply
Once our application portal opens, the link to apply will appear on the course page above.
Subject to satisfying the aforementioned entry criteria, applicants will be offered places on a first-come-first-served basis per their application submission.
However please contact Professor Denis Harrington, Head of Graduate Business at [email protected] before making your application.
In the interim, please feel free to contact Professor Denis Harrington, Head of Graduate Business at [email protected] if you wish to have an informal discussion about the SETU Waterford DBA.
Start Date: September 2026
Fees
€35,000
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Enterprising
Enterprising people like situations that involve using resources for personal or corporate economic gain. Such people may have an opportunistic frame of mind, and are drawn to commerce, trade and making deals. Some pursue sales and marketing occupations. Many will eventually end up owning their own business, or in management roles in larger organisations. They tend to be very goal-oriented and work best when focused on a target. Some have an entrepreneurial inclination.
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Career Progression
Duration
Delivery
This programme will be delivered through a blend of lectures, tutorial sessions, as well as independent study. Students will be required to attend SETU Cork Road campus in Waterford for one lecture per semester. Some of the lecture material is delivered in an e-learning capacity to facilitate distance learning.