Exclusive pathway
Doctor of International Business Management + DBA
Earn a 2-in-1 doctoral pathway combining a Vision University College DIBM with a La Xenia DBA, supported by flexible learning, dissertation supervision and a Switzerland business seminar week.
Study mode
Flexible learning / FlexiLearn
Pathway type
2-in-1 doctoral pathway
Institutions
Vision University College, Malaysia and La Xenia International Institute of Switzerland
Programme overview
A doctoral pathway for international business leaders
This programme combines the Doctor of International Business Management, awarded by Vision University College in Malaysia, with the Doctor of Business Administration, awarded by La Xenia International Institute of Switzerland.
It is designed for senior professionals, executives, entrepreneurs and academics who want to deepen their knowledge of international business, strategic leadership, global markets and applied research.
The pathway brings together flexible learning, structured doctoral coursework, dissertation supervision and international exposure through a Switzerland business seminar week.
Key highlights
What students can expect
Two doctoral awards
Students work towards a DIBM awarded by Vision University College and a DBA awarded by La Xenia International Institute of Switzerland.
Flexible learning
Weekend live classes, recorded sessions, structured deadlines and academic support help working professionals stay on track.
Dissertation supervision
Each student is assigned a dedicated supervisor for guidance, consultation, research support, writing support and progress monitoring.
Switzerland business week
The Global Executive Business Week adds seminars, networking and curated exposure to international business environments in Switzerland.
Coursework-based assessment
The taught element is assessed through coursework with no final examination, followed by a major doctoral dissertation.
International business focus
The curriculum covers global strategy, international trade, cross-cultural leadership, supply chain, innovation and research methodology.
Curriculum
Doctoral course structure
The curriculum combines international business, global trade, leadership, organisational behaviour, innovation, research methods and dissertation work. Total credit hours are listed as 82.
Full-time structure
| Stage | Duration | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1, Semester 1 | 17 weeks | Overview of International Business | 4 |
| Year 1, Semester 1 | 17 weeks | International Trade and Policy | 4 |
| Year 1, Semester 1 | 17 weeks | Cross-Cultural Management and Global Leadership | 4 |
| Year 1, Semester 1 | 17 weeks | Global Marketing | 4 |
| Year 1, Semester 2 | 9 weeks | Global Supply Chain and International Trade Management | 4 |
| Year 1, Semester 2 | 9 weeks | Organizational Power, Politics, Culture and Conflict | 4 |
| Year 1, Semester 2 | 9 weeks | Drivers of Globalization | 4 |
| Year 1, Semester 3 | 17 weeks | Doctoral Seminar in Business | 4 |
| Year 1, Semester 3 | 17 weeks | Advanced Research Methodology | 6 |
| Year 1, Semester 3 | 17 weeks | Entrepreneurship and Social Innovation | 4 |
| Year 2, Semester 1 | 17 weeks | Talent Acquisition and Development | 4 |
| Year 2 / Year 3 | Dissertation phase | Dissertation | 36 |
Part-time structure
| Stage | Duration | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1, Semester 1 | 17 weeks | Overview of International Business | 4 |
| Year 1, Semester 1 | 17 weeks | International Trade and Policy | 4 |
| Year 1, Semester 2 | 9 weeks | Cross-Cultural Management and Global Leadership | 4 |
| Year 1, Semester 3 | 17 weeks | Global Marketing | 4 |
| Year 1, Semester 3 | 17 weeks | Global Supply Chain and International Trade Management | 4 |
| Year 2, Semester 1 | 17 weeks | Organizational Power, Politics, Culture and Conflict | 4 |
| Year 2, Semester 1 | 17 weeks | Drivers of Globalization | 4 |
| Year 2, Semester 2 | 9 weeks | Doctoral Seminar in Business | 4 |
| Year 2, Semester 3 | 17 weeks | Advanced Research Methodology | 6 |
| Year 2, Semester 3 | 17 weeks | Entrepreneurship and Social Innovation | 4 |
| Year 3, Semester 1 | 17 weeks | Talent Acquisition and Development | 4 |
| Year 3 / Year 4 | Dissertation phase | Dissertation | 36 |
Programme details
Confirmed information
| Award / qualification | Doctor of International Business Management (DIBM), awarded by Vision University College, Malaysia. Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), awarded by La Xenia International Institute of Switzerland. |
| Institution(s) | Vision University College, Malaysia and La Xenia International Institute of Switzerland. |
| Level | Doctorate / DBA pathway. |
| Duration | Standard pathway: 36 months / 3 years. Academic duration information also lists 3 to 6 years, with part-time academic duration listed as 4 to 8 years. |
| Delivery mode | Flexible learning / FlexiLearn with weekend live classes, recorded sessions, structured module deadlines, guided learning, academic support and optional or non-mandatory onsite seminars in Kuala Lumpur where available. |
| Location | Malaysia, with a 1-week Global Executive Business Week / Switzerland business seminar week. |
| Study commitment | Part-time study is around 8 hours per week. |
| Entry requirements | A master’s degree in a related field, a master’s degree in a non-related field subject to the listed conditions, or another accepted equivalent qualification. Strong bachelor’s degree applicants may be considered under the listed direct-entry conditions. |
| English requirement | MUET Band 4, CEFR Mid B2 equivalent, IELTS Band 6.0, or a declaration or completion letter confirming that the master’s degree was conducted in English. |
| Assessment | 100% coursework-based with no final examination, plus dissertation work. |
| Dissertation | 80,000 to 100,000 words on a topic related to international business management. |
| Intakes | January, May and September. A class may start once 15 students are enrolled. Current intake availability is confirmed during enquiry. |
| Fees | RM32,000 total, with an instalment option of RM1,000 per month over 32 months. Visa charges and Switzerland trip-related charges are confirmed separately. |
| Internship / practical component | No internship is included. Practical learning comes through applied coursework, research, dissertation work, seminars, possible onsite sessions and the Switzerland business seminar experience. |
Awards and recognition
- Vision University College is listed as DKU059(B).
- The DIBM is listed as MQA Approved, MQA/PA18111.
- The programme is listed as KPT Approved, N/0414/8/0091.
- The programme is listed as KWSP Claimable and HRDF Claimable.
- The DIBM is listed as state recognised in Malaysia.
- La Xenia is listed as EduQua Certified, registered in the Private School Register Switzerland and QAHE Accredited.
Study format and applicant guidance
- For Malaysian professionals, the pathway is positioned around flexible learning with weekend live classes, recordings and structured deadlines.
- International applicants may access the DIBM through a full-time on-site route in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- International applicants may need to reside in Malaysia, obtain the appropriate EMGS student visa and attend classes and academic activities on campus.
- Public study format wording should use flexible learning or FlexiLearn.
Assessment and dissertation
Assessment includes assignments, case studies, presentations, research reports and dissertation work. End-of-semester academic discussions and live presentations may also be used.
Dissertation supervision includes a dedicated supervisor, one-to-one support, research guidance, academic consultation, progress monitoring and at least monthly consultation.
Switzerland business seminar week
The 1-week Global Executive Business Week is designed to add international exposure through business-focused learning and executive networking in Switzerland.
- Business-focused seminars
- Executive-level networking opportunities
- Exposure to international business environments
- Curated experiences in Switzerland
- Corporate and industry exposure
- Potential visits to Nestle, Patek Philippe, Rolex, Lindt or equivalent organisations
Student benefits
Built for experienced professionals with international ambitions
Students can build advanced knowledge of international business, global management, applied research and strategic leadership while continuing their professional commitments.
The pathway supports learners who want a structured research route connected to real business issues, with dissertation supervision and a curriculum focused on international markets.
Career directions mentioned in the approved information include senior leadership, international business direction, regional management, corporate strategy, advisory roles, consulting, entrepreneurship, lecturing and research-focused roles.
FAQ
Common questions
What awards will I receive?
Successful graduates work towards the DIBM awarded by Vision University College and the DBA awarded by La Xenia International Institute of Switzerland.
How is the programme delivered?
The programme uses Flexible learning / FlexiLearn with weekend live classes, recorded sessions, structured deadlines and academic support.
Does the programme include an internship?
No internship is included. Practical learning comes through coursework, research, dissertation work, seminars, possible onsite sessions and the Switzerland business seminar experience.
How long does it take?
The standard pathway is listed as 36 months / 3 years. Academic duration may vary by route and study mode.
Is there a final exam?
The taught element is listed as 100% coursework-based with no final examination, plus dissertation work.
What is the fee?
The fee information includes RM32,000 total and an instalment option of RM1,000 per month over 32 months. Additional charges are confirmed separately.
Ready to discuss this doctoral pathway?
MGW can help students and partners confirm eligibility, current intake availability, study format, Switzerland week arrangements and the best next step before applying.