Doctor of Business Leadership (DBL)

Module Synopses

DBL601 Business Research Methods 1

The research proposal – this module covers a basic understanding of: what research is and how it is carried out; the concept of research; empirical theory; experimental and observational research; basic research techniques; qualitative and quantitative research; research risk management and project management; choosing a subject and research focus; application to business research; writing a research proposal and developing a research timetable.

DBL602 Leadership Communication and Influence

Students will develop advanced skills in interpersonal communication, public speaking, negotiation, and persuasion. Topics include communication styles, active listening, conflict resolution, and the use of storytelling in leadership. The course also explores the role of communication in building trust, motivating teams, and driving organizational change. Practical exercises and simulations will help students enhance their communication and influence abilities.

DBL603 Artificial Intelligence in Business

This course provides a comprehensive overview of the applications, benefits, and challenges of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the business context. Students will explore how AI technologies, including machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics, are transforming various aspects of business operations, decision-making, and customer interactions. The course emphasizes practical applications and strategic implementation of AI to drive innovation, efficiency, and competitive advantage in diverse industries.

DBL604 Succession Planning and Talent Management

Succession planning focuses on preparing for future leadership transitions by identifying and developing internal candidates who can step into key roles when needed. This process involves pinpointing critical positions within the organization, assessing potential successors based on their skills, performance, and potential, and creating development plans to prepare them for future leadership roles. By facilitating knowledge transfer and regularly updating succession plans, organizations can minimize disruption and maintain continuity in their leadership. Talent management, on the other hand, encompasses a broader range of activities aimed at optimizing the overall workforce. It involves recruiting, developing, and retaining employees to align with the organization’s strategic goals. Effective talent management includes designing robust recruitment strategies, implementing comprehensive performance management systems, and offering continuous learning and development opportunities. It also involves creating clear career paths and development plans to support employees’ growth and advancement within the organization. The effective integration of succession planning and talent development ensures that the organization is well-prepared for future leadership transitions while simultaneously fostering a culture of continuous growth and improvement.

DBL605 Strategic Leadership and Management

This course delves into advanced strategic leadership theories and practices, equipping students with the skills needed to develop and implement strategic plans effectively. Key topics include vision setting, strategic alignment, environmental scanning, SWOT analysis, and strategic decision-making. Students will explore how to lead organizational change, create sustainable competitive advantages, and ensure long-term success. Practical applications and case studies will help students understand the complexities of strategic leadership in various organizational settings. By the end of the course, students will be able to design and execute strategic initiatives that drive organizational growth and sustainability.

DBL606 Business Research Methods 2

This module focuses on critically reviewing of literature and methodology. Students are taught how to conduct a business-related literature review, which is then used to develop a hypothesis or theory about a business issue. The key areas covered include: the concept of a literature review; sources of information and search techniques; the structure and format of a business literature review; the concept of replication and validation; literature review synthesis and theory development; research and operational hypotheses; and the concept of a business-related hypothesis.

The methodology section covers research philosophies which include positivism, interpretivism, realism and pragmatism among others. Paradigm assumptions; ontology, epistemology, axiology, rhetorical and methodological are taught with a linkage to the philosophies above. Research design, research strategies, sampling and data collection techniques will be taught in detail.

DBL607 Data Analytics in Business Decision Making

This module provides students with the skills to analyze and interpret data to make informed business decisions. Topics include data mining, predictive analytics, and data visualization. Students will use analytical tools and software to extract insights from data and support strategic decisions.

DBL608 Advertising Management

This module covers advertising from the specific point of view of Account Management within the advertising agency. It involves the understanding and appreciation of proper strategies-Advertising, Creative and Media – as bases for correct, effective and efficient advertising campaigns. It also examines fully the roles played by the different departments of an agency and the various segments of the advertising industry that pertain to each of them. This module will benefit future advertising practitioners whether as account managers in advertising agencies, or as advertising or brand managers of clients, or as heads of their own companies.

DBL609 Financial Decision Making for Leaders

Students will learn to analyze financial statements, conduct budgeting and financial planning, and make informed investment decisions. Topics include financial ratios, capital budgeting, risk assessment, and financial forecasting. The course emphasizes the use of financial information in strategic decision-making, ensuring that leaders can align financial goals with organizational objectives. By developing financial acumen, students will be able to lead financial strategies, manage resources effectively, and contribute to the financial sustainability of their organizations.

DBL610 Leadership Ethics and Corporate Governance

This course addresses the ethical challenges and responsibilities of leadership, as well as the role of corporate governance in ensuring accountability and integrity within organizations. Topics include ethical decision-making frameworks, corporate social responsibility, stakeholder management, and governance structures. Students will analyze real-world ethical dilemmas and develop strategies for ethical leadership and governance. The course also explores regulatory environments and the impact of governance on organizational performance. By examining case studies and engaging in ethical debates, students will learn to navigate complex ethical issues and promote a culture of ethical behaviour

DBL611 Business Research Methods 3

This module covers data collection, research findings, analysis, research discussion, conclusions, recommendations, references and the write up of a thesis. Detailed various research instruments are taught covering both quantitative and qualitative.   Statistical techniques for data collection, analysis and drawing conclusions are discussed. Analysis tools, both for quantitative and qualitative data are taught such as SPSS, NVIVO, ATLAS, MAXQDA etc. Some of the analytical tools will cover the following issues: descriptive statistics (probability theory, distribution, standard deviation, etc), bivariate statistics (cross-tabulations, Chi-square test, correlation, significance), modelling (linear regression, logistic regression, choosing appropriate test, etc), time series, regression analysis, trends etc. Different reference techniques are covered and students will be guided on how to write a thesis and the techniques of defending the thesis during a VIVA session.

DBL612 Entrepreneurial Leadership and Innovation

Students will develop an entrepreneurial mindset, learn how to recognize opportunities, and create innovative business models. Topics include ideation, prototyping, market validation, and scaling entrepreneurial ventures. The course covers leadership strategies for supporting and inspiring entrepreneurial initiatives, managing risk, and navigating the challenges of innovation. Case studies and practical projects will provide hands-on experience in leading entrepreneurial efforts. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to lead and drive innovation within their organizations, contributing to growth and competitive advantage.