Study Fee: Click here to view the t(/study-fee)uition and subscription options.(/study-fee)(/study-fee) Monthly study plans start from €499 per month, depending on the program and level of academic support selected.

Study Method: This program is delivered 100% online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world with flexible scheduling. Students may also have the option to attend the graduation ceremony in Switzerland, subject to visa approval and travel regulations.

Study Language: The program is delivered in English. Students are expected to have sufficient English language proficiency to complete the coursework and academic requirements.

Applications can be submitted online through our admission portal.(/apply)(/apply) Applicants may also contact or visit our offices in different regions, including: • Europe: Switzerland • GCC: Dubai (UAE) • Asia: Bishkek Our admissions team will guide you through the application and enrollment process.

Programs are offered through a flexible monthly subscription system, allowing students to progress at their own pace while maintaining access to academic resources and support services.

This program has a minimum study period depending on the academic level and program structure. Students may complete the program at their own pace while maintaining an active monthly subscription.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should meet the academic entry requirements for the respective program level. Typical requirements may include: • A previous academic qualification relevant to the program level • A copy of passport or national ID • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume • Completed online application form Additional documents may be requested depending on the program and the institution delivering the program.

Certification / Degree Awarded

Upon successful completion of all academic requirements, students will receive the corresponding certificate or academic degree issued by the responsible institution within the VBNN Smart Education Group network.

Doctorate in Growth Hacking and Startup Strategy

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The Doctorate in Growth Hacking and Startup Strategy (International Focus) is a 100% research-based doctorate study program designed for professionals, researchers, entrepreneurs, startup founders, innovation managers, and strategic decision-makers who want to explore advanced knowledge in high-growth business models, startup development, innovation strategy, digital experimentation, and sustainable scaling in international markets. This program is intended for individuals who seek to engage critically with the fast-moving world of startups and growth systems through advanced academic research and independent analytical inquiry.

This doctorate study program is positioned at a level equivalent to ISCED / EQF Level 8 and is also considered equal to the 3rd European cycle. ISCED, or the International Standard Classification of Education, is a global framework used to classify education levels and make them easier to compare across countries. EQF, or the European Qualifications Framework, is a common European reference system that supports the comparison of qualifications across different national education systems. Level 8 represents the most advanced stage of academic and professional learning, typically associated with original research, strategic thinking, and meaningful contribution to knowledge and professional practice.

The structure of the program is designed to combine strong research foundations with field-specific depth. It includes 7 modules, consisting of 4 research-related modules, 2 general modules, and 1 specialist module focused on Growth Hacking and Startup Strategy, followed by thesis development and research activities. This academic design allows participants to build advanced competence in research methodology while also exploring the realities of startup growth, product-market fit, rapid testing, customer acquisition, digital channels, innovation frameworks, entrepreneurial leadership, early-stage scaling, venture positioning, and competitive strategy in highly dynamic business environments.

A defining feature of this doctorate study program is its international perspective. Startups today often operate across borders from an early stage, using digital tools, global platforms, distributed teams, and international customer bases. At the same time, growth strategies increasingly rely on data, agility, experimentation, and the ability to adapt quickly to changing conditions. For this reason, the program encourages research that is globally relevant and practically informed, allowing participants to investigate how emerging ventures grow, compete, innovate, and build long-term strategic value in different regions and markets.

The minimum duration is 18 months, while also offering flexibility for participants who wish to extend their studies based on their professional responsibilities, research pace, or personal commitments. This makes the program particularly suitable for experienced professionals and entrepreneurial leaders who wish to pursue advanced research in a flexible format without interrupting their broader activities.

This doctorate study program is especially relevant for those interested in understanding how startups evolve from early concepts into scalable and strategically positioned organizations. It supports the development of advanced analytical thinking, research capability, and informed leadership perspectives in a field that connects entrepreneurship, digital transformation, business innovation, and market expansion.

Through rigorous research and critical reflection, participants may contribute valuable insights to startup ecosystems, innovation practices, business strategy discussions, and the future of growth-oriented organizations. In a global economy shaped by rapid technological change and entrepreneurial ambition, this program offers a strong academic pathway for examining startup success and strategic growth at the highest level of study.