Doctor of Professional (DPS)

The Doctor of Professional Studies (DPS) is an advanced doctoral-level program specifically designed for experienced professionals, executives, entrepreneurs, managers, and consultants who seek to further develop their expertise within organizational and operational environments.

This program is grounded in the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) framework, allowing candidates to leverage their existing professional knowledge, leadership experience, and career achievements toward the attainment of a doctoral qualification. For individuals who wish to pursue a doctorate without repeating academic subjects already mastered through practical experience, the DPS offers an accelerated and cost-effective pathway to graduation.

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Program Structure

The DPS program is based on the independent development of a comprehensive Project Work, through which candidates demonstrate advanced competencies within their field of professional specialization.

Rather than focusing on traditional coursework or examinations, the program requires the candidate to:

• Apply professional expertise in a structured research format
• Demonstrate analytical and critical thinking skills
• Address real-world organizational or industry challenges
• Develop solutions or insights relevant to their professional practice

All academic disciplines are available under this program, as the DPS is tailored to the candidate’s:

• Professional background
• Area of activity
• Organizational environment
• Field of interest

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Professional Orientation

The Doctor of Professional Studies is intended for advanced practitioners who already occupy responsible roles in business, management, or professional sectors and who have demonstrated success within their respective industries.

The primary objectives of the DPS program are to:

• Support personal and professional growth
• Highlight leadership and professional competence
• Strengthen analytical and strategic thinking capabilities
• Enhance professional credibility and reputation
• Provide international academic recognition of competencies

It is important to note that the DPS is not intended for the acquisition of new technical or scientific skills. Instead, it is designed as a professional doctorate for individuals seeking to formalize their expertise through applied research that contributes to the advancement of their professional practice.

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Study Flexibility and Research Requirements

Thanks to its fully online Distance Learning format, the DPS program does not require:

• Campus attendance
• Classroom participation
• Scheduled lectures or seminars

Candidates may select a field of study that aligns with their work experience from among more than 200 disciplines offered by the Hollywood International University.

The required Project Work may take the form of:

• A technical or scientific report
• A business or management essay
• An applied research study
• A professional academic thesis

The final research project must:

• Contain a minimum of 90–100 pages
• Demonstrate original applied analysis
• Be completed within 18 months from the date of enrollment

There is no minimum time requirement for completion, allowing candidates to progress according to their own professional and personal commitments.