Any suggestion for online DBA

[OtterDen]

For me I won't recommend a level 8，I asked the official body (OTHM) about the exit path of the diploma. They cannot give a clear answer which university will allow dissertation only option. They only ask you to discuss with the university you want to enter.

For level 7 they could give a clear exit path which university would provide which top up degree, but level 8 there is no such list.

This level 8 diploma is very interesting. They are level 8 according to EQF and MQF or even HKQF (not tested yet)，but I think you cannot call yourself as a doctorate.

So why not do the dba directly instead as the coursework stage takes normal one year, actually the same timespan as a level 8 diploma but it is more solid.

On the other hand, I would recommend the OTHM Level 8's, it really depends on the student looking at the Level 8's. Unlike their Level 7 and lower level diplomas... They've not worked out any progression paths for Level 8's yet, thus, they can't recommend you anything... Don't get confused with what Doctoral Level Studies are compared to Doctoral Level Degree! For the cost, ease, speed of finishing the first part of a multi-part series, that's why these Level 8's are there in the first place, to transfer into a doctoral degree (if you can find them, I mentioned US/UK/Canadian options).

After obtaining a Level 8 diploma and transferring it to The University of Sunderland or another University, does that reduce the time required to complete the DProf? Or, is it still minimum of three years? Are those considered "top-up" options?

Technically, if Sunderland accepts this for the first year transfer, you just need to complete the two years. It'll be a transfer top-up to finish off the remaining two years for the dissertation and research (if any).

This is what I also design my progression path for myself.

Three steps:
1. Level 5 Diploma. Then, use that to top-up to a one year Bachelor (Honours) program. I have finished this one already.
2. Level 7 Diploma. Then, use that to top-up to a dissertation/project only Mater program. I am proceeding here with the Level 7 Diploma.
3. Level 8 Diploma. Then, use that to top-up to a doctorate level program. This part seems to be more uncertain. This will be a case-by-case situation IMO. Individual's past experience plays a vital role. I'll see if there are more options when I reach here.