There is an option to do a one year MSc via University of South Wales. For members of certain professional bodies, eg CMI and ICAEW both of which I belong to, it takes only 12 months PT and involves studying only two modules and writing a dissertation, as it builds on already assumed knowledge. I am attracted to it as it seems a relatively easy and cheap way to gain a masters. Also the dissertation will tie in well with some work I have lined up. However I am also a bit concerned about whether it is actually worth anything given the institutions relatively low rank. My first degree is not in a business discipline, but is from a fairly top ranked Russell Group university. I run my own businesses so am not bothered about the job market, but maybe my own credibility as part of what I do is consultancy based. Also I am considering doing a DBA at some point and wonder if it would be deemed a suitable stepping stone by most institutions.

A degree from a Russell Group uni is all you need to get into a DBA. That MSc won't help you in that respect.

I don't really see how this qualification will help you in another respect.

Duncan, thanks for your prompt response.

But most DBA entrance requirements specify a masters with some degree of research element?

Well, some do not. Others say "normally", which means that they encourage but do not require it. And other specifically require a MBA. I just looked at the top results on google and the second did not require a masters (Hertfordshire).