The PDBA is offered fully online, allowing you to balance work and study while accessing the same level of content and support as the on-campus programme. It is designed to give you a broad, practical understanding of business that you can leverage for rapid career and personal growth, whether you are deepening expertise or preparing for a career shift into management.

Yes. The programme is delivered fully online, so you can study from anywhere without putting your career on hold, while still benefiting from the same content as the on-campus programme, and the support associated with the on-campus experience.

If you enrol online, the PDBA runs over 22 months. Do you prefer a faster pace? There is the option for you to take two modules at a time and complete the programme sooner, ideal if you want to accelerate your progress without sacrificing rigour.

You will complete 11 modules totalling 120 credits, covering Strategy, Digital Business, Finance and Accounting, Marketing, Essential Business Skills, Project Management, Business Law, Entrepreneurship, People Management (including Labour), and International Business and Economics. Module descriptions outline practical outcomes and decision-making tools relevant to South African and global contexts. The programme's SAQA ID is: 111477.

You will need a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, preferably with two years of relevant work experience (in the public, parastatal, or non-profit sector; relevant private sector experience is also considered). Students who achieve an average of 65% or more for this qualification may apply to one of the Master’s programmes.

While the minimum requirement is a Bachelor’s degree and preferably two years’ work experience, having exposure to business or management makes the programme more rewarding. The assignments and modules are designed to connect directly with real workplace challenges, so the more professional experience you bring, the richer your learning journey will be.

Each module lists its own fee, and module pricing is subject to change every year. Sponsored students are advised to obtain two quotations per year, while self-funded students must pay the module fee upfront for each intake. For precise planning, please take a look at the current module list and totals on the page. Click HERE to see the fees.

Yes. If you are self-funded, fees are paid upfront for each intake, not for the entire programme at once. This allows you to spread the investment across your study journey. Sponsored students should request two quotations per year to cover potential annual fee increases.

The online PDBA is designed for working professionals, offering a fully online and structured programme that allows you to balance work and study while receiving the same content and support as the contact programme. You will engage with clearly defined modules and outcomes that translate into practical capability at work.

Studying online does not mean studying alone. You will receive the same level of academic content and support offered to contact students, including access to module facilitators and structured guidance through each subject. The online format is designed for working professionals who require flexibility while also valuing strong support.

You will develop a broad understanding of business and enhance your management and leadership skills, helping you progress in your role or pivot into new opportunities. Strong performers (average 65%) may be eligible to proceed to one of the Master’s programmes, giving you a pathway for further study.

Yes. The PDBA is designed to broaden your business knowledge and sharpen your decision-making skills, making you more competitive for leadership and management positions. Graduates often use the PDBA to position themselves for promotion or pivot into new business fields. Strong results can also open the door to further study at the Master’s level.

There are six start dates a year, which means there is a start about every two months. Check the date on the home page for the very next start.

If you study part-time online, the programme takes 22 months to complete. If you prefer to accelerate, you can take two modules at a time and complete it more quickly. Both options allow you to progress at a pace that balances study with work and personal commitments.