IFCS has recently received numerous requests to evaluate Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degrees from Jagiellonian Academy in Torun, Poland. This blog aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the program, considering its key features, the issuing institution, and the official response received from the Ministry of Education and Science in Poland.
The DBA program at Akademia Jagiellońska is open to applicants who hold a Master’s degree or its equivalent. The program is two years long and requires a total of 180 ECTS credits, including a thesis. One noteworthy aspect of the program is that it is offered through distance learning, which is becoming increasingly popular in higher education
Founded in 2002 as a non-public institution, Jagiellonian Academy underwent a significant transformation in February 2022, attaining academy status and adopting the name Akademia Jagiellońska w Toruniu. Operating under the supervision of the Minister of Science and Higher Education, the institution holds a notable position within the Polish higher education landscape.
IFCS initiated preliminary research to ascertain the recognition and accreditation status of the DBA program at Jagiellonian Academy. While the institution itself is recognized by the Ministry of Education and Science in Poland, the DBA program was not listed among the approved degree programs.
The Ministry stated that the title “Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)” does not hold the status of an academic doctorate under Polish legislation. This designation is granted within the framework of postgraduate programs, emphasizing that the completion of such a program does not equate to obtaining an academic doctorate in the Polish system of higher education and science.
The Ministry also highlighted the autonomy of public and non-public universities in conducting postgraduate programs without requiring explicit approval/accreditation.
In light of the Ministry’s clarification and recognizing the unique status of the DBA title outside Polish legislation, IFCS recommends acknowledging two years of graduate-level credits for individuals holding this qualification. However, IFCS does not recommend conferring the title of a graduate degree, emphasizing the distinctive nature of the DBA within the Polish higher education context.
The evaluation of Doctor of Business Administration degrees from Jagiellonian Academy reveals a nuanced scenario. While the institution itself is recognized, the unique characteristics of the DBA program necessitate careful consideration.
Author,
Bedrie Matoshi
Director of Evaluations