Exclusive IPMA collaboration: Online DBA & Mini MBA in Project Management

NEWS > Exclusive IPMA collaboration: Online DBA & Mini MBA in Project Management

SSBM Geneva continues to redefine modern executive education with the launch of two new online programs in Project Management, delivered in collaboration with the International Project Management Association (IPMA). Designed for ambitious professionals at different stages of their leadership journey, the new offerings include a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Programme in Project Management and a Mini MBA Programme in Project Management, both aligned with global standards and built for real-world impact.

Project Management DBA & Mini MBA

SSBM Geneva’s collaboration with the International Project Management Association (IPMA) reflects a shared commitment to advancing global standards in project leadership and professional education. Through this partnership, SSBM integrates IPMA’s internationally recognized competence framework and certification pathways into its programs, ensuring that participants gain both academic excellence and industry-validated credentials. 

About IPMA

The International Project Management Association (IPMA) is a globally recognized federation of project management organizations representing professionals in more than 160 countries. Known for its academic competence-based standards, IPMA focuses on developing leadership, technical expertise, and strategic perspective through its internationally respected certification system (Levels A–D). Its framework, the Individual Competence Baseline (ICB), is widely used as a benchmark for excellence in project, program, and portfolio management, helping organizations and professionals align their practices with global best practices. Through research, education partnerships, and professional validation, IPMA plays a central role in advancing the discipline and shaping the future of project leadership worldwide.

Benefits of collaborating with IPMA

  • Development of project management competencies in various geographic areas
  • Interactions and relationship building with practitioners, corporations, government agencies, universities, colleges, training organizations, and consulting companies
  • Comprehensive portfolio of products and services for aiding in the development of project management competencies
  • Steady growth in demand for products and services based on the IPMA Standards
  • Facilitation of networking and idea sharing among project management practitioners worldwide
  • Advancement of project management practice and collaboration through effective cooperation
  • IPMA will allow SSBM students enrolled in the programme to access Platform MY IPMA, as well as access to the IPMA Library with more than 350 books on project management

A Doctoral Pathway for Strategic Leaders

The newly introduced DBA Programme in Project Management is a 30-month, research-focused doctoral program tailored for senior professionals, executives, and decision-makers who want to shape the future of project, program, and portfolio management. Grounded in the globally respected IPMA Individual Competence Baseline (ICB4) framework, the program integrates strategic perspective, leadership excellence, and advanced technical practice.

Each candidate is paired with a qualified doctoral supervisor who provides continuous, personalized guidance—from research design through dissertation defense. With 120 ECTS credits, a dedicated mentor, personal advisor, and SSBM’s advanced e-learning platform, participants are immersed in a rigorous yet flexible academic experience. Graduates are also eligible for IPMA certification (Levels A–D), a credential recognized worldwide for professional competence.

A Fast-Track Mini MBA for Immediate Impact

Complementing the doctoral pathway, SSBM Geneva also introduces the Mini MBA Programme in Project Management, a 6-month accelerated program created for professionals who already hold a master’s degree and want to sharpen their project leadership skills without committing to a full-length MBA.

The program combines six core courses with hands-on learning through case studies, simulations, and applied exercises. Participants explore Agile, Scrum, and traditional methodologies while building practical capabilities to plan, execute, and monitor complex projects. With 18–23 ECTS credits, this compact yet powerful qualification enhances market competitiveness and professional confidence. Like the DBA, graduates may pursue IPMA certification, reinforcing global recognition.

Education Without Borders

Both programs are delivered fully online, welcoming learners from 160+ countries into SSBM Geneva’s international academic community. This global classroom environment reflects the school’s philosophy: leadership education should be flexible, accessible, and immediately applicable.

The collaboration strengthens SSBM Geneva’s mission to deliver practical, globally relevant education that equips professionals to lead complex projects with confidence and credibility.