Frequently asked questions
Which programmes do you offer?
We offer Bachelor’s, Master of Business Administration (MBA),degrees with various specializations and Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) or Doctorate of Philosophy in Management (Ph. D). ALL OUR PROGRAMS ARE 100% ONLINE AND IN ENGLISH.
How long is the Bachelor degree?
Bachelor is a 3 year programme but CAN be completed in 2 years or even less depending on the students efforts.
How long is the MBA degree?
The MBA degree takes 1 academic year, and is self paced so you can finish in 9 months if you have the time.
How long is the Doctorate degree?
The PhD/DBA, can be completed in 2 years with a dedicated effort by the student, but MAY take longer.
What is a DBA degree?
A Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) combines some theory with research to solve a current business problem. A DBA will help you solve a current business issue and make a tangible contribution to the field in which you work. Aimed at individuals who are looking for an opportunity to deep dive into a problem or idea that requires research, analysis, and guidance from industry experts to develop recommendations and solutions.
What is a PhD degree?
A PhD is focussed on academic research to contribute to the body of academic literature on a topic, whereas the Doctorate of Business Administration focusses on applied research to solve a business problem or develop an idea.
How can I prove my English level if I have not taken any exams?
If an official English exam certificate is not available we will consider proof of any previous study in an English-speaking environment for a minimum of 3 years or by conducting an official interview with our admissions department.
Can I do a Master without a Bachelor degree?
It’s recommendable to have a Bachelor degree in a related field. However, you may be able to apply without a Bachelors if you can demonstrate relevant experience and your overall postgraduate application is very strong.
How long does the admissions process take?
Once you have submitted your application and have paid the app fee, your file will be reviewed within 2-3 business days.
How much is the app fee?
The application fee is Eur. 200 to all programmes. The application fee is not refundable.
How much is the Bachelor programme?
Application fee : Non-refundable, paid with application : € 200 Tuition Fees : € 1950 per semester
How much is the MBA?
Application fee : Non-refundable, paid with application : € 200 Tuition Fees : € 2450 per semester
How much is the Doctorate programme?
IF completed in 2 years the cost is €5,900 per year plus a one off registration fee of €200 for a total cost of €12,000 over the two years.
Does the School offer flexible payment plans?
Yes, please contact our admissions department for more information Email: admissions@ssbr-edu.ch
Does the School offer scholarships? Yes, please click on the link below to get more information: https://ssbr-edu.ch/scholarships/
What accreditations does the school have?
Accreditation is vital for ensuring our academic excellence and global recognition. SSBR is dedicated to providing high-quality, relevant programmes, particularly our “PhD by Portfolio,” designed for professionals to complete remotely within a year, allowing for academic recognition of their expertise and research.
We hold accreditations from prominent bodies including the Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges, and Universities (ASIC), recognised globally and part of networks such as CHEA in the USA and ENQA in Europe. SSBR is also accredited by the International Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education (QAHE), authorised by the Canton of Zurich, and is a certified OTHM learning centre, facilitating further academic and professional recognition.
For a comprehensive list of our accreditations and memberships, please visit our website: SSBR Accreditations and Memberships. These affiliations underscore our commitment to educational excellence and the development of our students.
Do I need a student visa?
Our programs are 100% online so you don’t need a visa or move to Switzerland to get your Swiss degree.
Do you have specific topics for the PhD or DBA programmes?
NO. The Doctorate programmes are research based, so you can choose your topic and we will support you with the mentoring needed for each field.
Are there any scholarships available?
SSBR is a private institution with no public funding. The majority of our scholarships cover up to 50% of the tuition fees and are based on individual merit of the applicant.
Can I refer a friend?
If you refer a friend to study at SSBR and is accepted to one of our programmes you will receive a 10% discount for the following semester tuition fees per each student.
Payment and Refund Policy
Please notice that if you are on a two or three year course the cost of the second and the third year may differ from the cost of the first year.
Students applying from outside Switzerland are normally required to pay their first-year fees in full.
Students must also be aware that additional payments may be required from them.
Additional charges may include:
Materials – students will be expected to pay a sum for materials when is required as part of their course and such items do not form part of the standard academic resources available to students from the school.
Documentation – Additional document, such as attestations etc will be charged if they are requested by the student. This process is carried out by a third party and fees are required by them for this service.
ADMINISTRATION CHARGE: All applications for a refund are subject to an administration
charge of 100 € (plus any courier and transfer charges etc.).
METHOD OF PAYMENT: Refunds will only be made using the original method of payment and
to the person who made the original payment.
DISBURSEMENTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE:
Any fees payable by the School on behalf of the student or in connection with the student’s
application to a third party (for example, courier fees, agent fees payable to the agent, etc.)
are non- refundable and non-transferable.
Student Cancellation
SSBR acknowledges that in extreme cases students may be confronted with exceptional
circumstances which may present them with difficulties and make it impossible for them to
continue their course. If this is the case and the student leaves before the end of the 1st week following commencement of classes one-thirds of the fee would be refunded.
If the student leavesafter the 1st week following commencement of classes no refund will be
given. Approval of refunds due to exceptional circumstances is at the discretion of the School
management and would be based on case-by-case. An Administration feeof 100 Euro (this
does not include 200 Euros non refundable application fees) will be charged for refunds
requested by this category of students.
Change in course structure
School management reserves the right to cancel any of the programs in case of less than 3
students enrols for that program in each intake.
School management reserves the right to change the program and the university partner.
REFUNDS:
If a student has already started their course, refund consideration can only apply under exceptional circumstances which are at the discretion of the school management.
When the School has acknowledged that a refund applicant may access refund, the following will apply:
Refund application within 10 working days
When a refund request is made and received within 10 working days from the date
recorded on the enrollment letter, approval will be subjected to the deduction of
non- refundable registration fees of 200 Euros and any other fees payable by the School
on behalf of the student or in connection with the student’s application to a
third-party (for example, courier fees, bank charges, agent fees payable to the agent, etc.).
Refund may arrive to student account within 30 days from the request made to
Please note that, 30 days period starts from the day we receive complete information needed to refund.
Mitigating circumstances:
When a refund request is made and received within 10 working days from the date recorded on the medical certificate, approval will be subjected to the deduction of the non-refundable registration fees of 200 euros and any other fees payable by the School onbehalf of the student or in connection with the student’s application to a third-party (for example, courier fees, bank charges, agent fees payable to the agent, etc.). There will be a charge of 100 Euros per administration fees. In case of circumstances other than medical condition, school management will decide on case by case.
Refund may arrive to student account within 30 days from the request made to
Please note that, 30 days period starts from the day we receive complete information needed to refund.
Students should also notice that no refunds can be applied in any other circumstance not covered in this policy.
All SSBR applicant (potential student) must read through this policy and sign the School’s refund policy acknowledgement form. Not having acknowledged this policy by signing the relevant documents does not exclude any students from its application.
This policy is effective from the date stated in the enrollment letter.
What is a PhD by Portfolio?
A PhD by Portfolio offers a non-traditional route to obtaining a doctoral degree. Unlike the conventional dissertation-based PhD, where a single research project culminates in a lengthy thesis, the portfolio path emphasizes a compilation of scholarly outputs, creative works, and practical contributions. These portfolios serve as a testament to the candidate’s intellectual prowess, practical skills, and real-world impact.
The PhD by Portfolio offers a refreshing alternative for those seeking a unique doctoral experience. It celebrates diversity, creativity, and impact, making it an exciting frontier in academic exploration. So, if you’re ready to weave together your scholarly pursuits, creative endeavors, and practical contributions, consider embarking on this distinctive path toward a truly unique doctorate. Learn more about the PhD by Portfolio at SSBR Education and unlock your potential!
What is the work schedule like for a PhD by Portfolio?
Do I need to have work published for the Portfolio?
No, You do not need PUBLISHED work
Admissions & Eligibility
1. Can I do a PhD without a master’s degree?
Some doctoral programmes may admit experienced professionals without a traditional master’s degree if they can demonstrate substantial expertise and the ability to conduct doctoral-level research.
2. Can work experience count toward a PhD?
Yes. In portfolio-based doctoral pathways, professional work that demonstrates research, analysis, or innovation may contribute toward a doctoral submission.
3. Can entrepreneurs earn a PhD?
Yes. Entrepreneurs who have developed significant intellectual contributions—such as business frameworks, research publications, or industry analysis—may pursue doctoral pathways that recognise professional expertise.
4. Do I need a research background to start a PhD?
Not necessarily. Many doctoral programmes provide academic supervision to help candidates develop research skills during their studies.
5. What qualifications are required to apply for a PhD?
Most doctoral programmes require a relevant master’s degree or equivalent professional experience in the field.
6. Can professionals return to academia later in their careers?
Yes. Many doctoral candidates begin their studies after years of professional experience.
7. Can consultants pursue a PhD?
Yes. Consultants often produce research-level analysis and strategic frameworks that can contribute to doctoral research.
8. Can executives study for a PhD?
Many executives pursue doctoral qualifications while continuing their careers through flexible online programmes.
Speed & Completion Time
9. What is the fastest way to get a PhD online?
The fastest doctoral pathways are usually research-focused programmes designed for experienced professionals, particularly those that recognise prior work.
10. Can you complete a PhD in one year?
In certain doctoral pathways designed for experienced professionals, completion within approximately 12 months may be possible.
11. How long does a typical PhD take?
Traditional doctoral programmes often take between three and seven years depending on the institution and research requirements.
12. How long does a PhD by Portfolio take?
Portfolio-based doctorates can often be completed more quickly because candidates submit work they have already produced.
13. Why do traditional PhDs take so long?
Traditional programmes often include coursework, administrative requirements, and long review cycles that extend the timeline.
14. Does a faster PhD have less value?
No. The academic standard of a doctorate depends on the quality of the research rather than the length of time taken.
Online PhDs
15. Can you complete a PhD fully online?
Yes. Many institutions offer fully online doctoral programmes designed for working professionals.
16. Are online PhDs legitimate?
Online doctorates can be legitimate when they require rigorous research and are awarded by credible institutions.
17. Are online PhDs respected by employers?
Many employers recognise online PhDs when they are awarded by credible institutions and involve substantial research.
18. Are online PhDs cheaper than traditional ones?
Online doctoral programmes often cost less because they eliminate campus infrastructure and allow students to study remotely.
19. Can you do a PhD while working full-time?
Yes. Many doctoral programmes are designed to allow professionals to continue working while conducting research.
20. Do online PhDs require campus visits?
Some programmes require short residencies, while others are delivered entirely online.
Cost & Affordability
21. What is the cheapest way to get a PhD online?
Fully online doctoral programmes designed for professionals are often the most affordable option.
22. How much does a PhD usually cost?
Costs vary widely depending on the institution, ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of euros.
23. Can you get a PhD without paying huge tuition fees?
Some institutions offer accessible doctoral programmes with significantly lower tuition structures.
24. Is it possible to do a low-cost PhD while working full-time?
Yes. Online doctoral programmes allow professionals to maintain their income while studying.
25. How much does a fast-track doctorate cost?
Accelerated doctoral programmes vary in price depending on the institution and structure.
PhD by Portfolio
26. What is a PhD by published work?
A PhD by Published Work allows candidates to submit previously published research as part of their doctoral evaluation.
27. Is a PhD by Portfolio legitimate?
Yes. This doctoral model is recognised in several academic systems for experienced researchers and professionals.
28. Who should consider a PhD by Portfolio?
Professionals who have already produced research publications, reports, or significant analytical work.
29. What type of work can be included in a portfolio?
Publications, books, professional reports, industry research, conference papers, and analytical studies.
30. Can a business professional do a PhD by Portfolio?
Yes. Many business professionals develop research-level work through consulting, entrepreneurship, or industry leadership.
Research & Academic Work
31. What is a doctoral dissertation?
A dissertation is an original research project demonstrating a contribution to knowledge in a particular field.
32. What is an original contribution to knowledge?
It means producing new insights, theories, frameworks, or evidence that advance understanding within a discipline.
33. Do all PhDs require a dissertation?
Most traditional PhDs require a dissertation, although portfolio-based doctorates use alternative structures.
34. Can professional publications count as research?
Yes. When properly analysed and contextualised academically, professional publications may contribute to doctoral research.
35. What kind of research do business PhDs conduct?
Business PhD research often focuses on management theory, entrepreneurship, strategy, innovation, and organisational behaviour.
Professional Benefits
36. Why do professionals pursue a PhD?
Many pursue doctorates to enhance credibility, contribute to research, or transition into teaching or advisory roles.
37. Can a PhD help with consulting or speaking opportunities?
A doctoral qualification can strengthen professional credibility and authority in certain fields.
38. Can entrepreneurs benefit from a PhD?
Some entrepreneurs pursue doctorates to formalise their expertise and contribute to academic discussion.
39. Does a PhD help with teaching opportunities?
Yes. Many universities require or prefer doctoral qualifications for teaching positions.
40. Can professionals publish research during a PhD?
Yes. Many doctoral candidates publish articles or papers during their studies.
General PhD Questions
41. What is the difference between a PhD and a DBA?
A PhD focuses on theoretical research, while a DBA focuses on applied research related to business practice.
42. What fields offer business doctorates?
Common areas include management, entrepreneurship, strategy, leadership, and innovation.
43. What skills are needed for a PhD?
Doctoral candidates typically need analytical thinking, research ability, writing skills, and discipline.
44. Is a PhD the highest academic qualification?
Yes. A doctorate is generally considered the highest academic degree.
45. Can you start a PhD later in life?
Yes. Many doctoral candidates begin their studies after years of professional experience.
46. Is age a barrier to starting a PhD?
No. Doctoral programmes often include candidates at many different stages of their careers.
47. Can international students complete a PhD online?
Yes. Many online doctoral programmes accept students from around the world.
48. Do PhD certificates show how long the degree took?
No. Doctoral certificates typically indicate the qualification but not the completion time.
49. Is doctoral research difficult?
Doctoral research requires dedication and intellectual effort but can be highly rewarding.
50. Why are flexible doctoral programmes becoming more popular?
Many professionals seek doctoral qualifications while continuing their careers, making flexible programmes increasingly attractive.
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