My first reaction was also to let matters lie, but on reflection I think you should go in and just say thank you for support. Be the bigger person, and be the one who walks away head held high. A word of warning - some academics are spiteful and so may not react well - don't let that put you off - you're doing the right thing and its something you can always be proud of - so then get your PhD and overtake these nummties - make them regret they didn't jump as the dual authorship opportunity!

If you're going for a job in industry then you should emphasise distance learning on your CV! Employers are impressed by people with the drive to do such studies - it takes an altogether much higher level of motivation, push and tenacity to do one. It's one of the reasons Open University graduates are in such demand.

Hi Rumi, I respond to your post with some advice, having spent over 20 years as a HR Director - and now a student - when writing your application, covering letter, etc - always say how what you've got in terms of qualies, experiences, skills will benefit the company and the role - too many people just think its obvious from the list of qualies that you can do the job - this is never the case - think benefits, not features. also, I hope your task today, a cover letter, won't take all day! If you can't write it inside 1 hour then you haven't worked out why you're the best candidate for the job! I know that sounds harsh, but for every role there's around 200 applications! It's tougher than ever. Good luck!

Hi LilyMe,
You're right, there's loads of stuff on YouTube - the two I intended you to watch are:

You seem to be doing OK - keep going!

I think we all go through these phase - and be confident, it is just a phase - the key is to break out of it - I broke out of my phase by watching two YouTube videos each day - the same two, called How Bad Do You Want It? Part 1 and 2 - the Hip Hop Preacher narrates a video about success whilst an American Footballer completes a work out - I defy anyone not to be inspired after watching them and hearing the commentary! Good luck, and don't pressure yourself - completing the thesis is part of the learning - let me know what you think of the videos!

To mis-quote President Kennedy - ask not what the university can do for you, but what you can do for the university - your reasons are sound, but what about the uni point of view - how you'll add to their knowledge base, reputation, etc.

Hi bignige, I'm of a similar age to you and also launching myself into doctoral research - whilst most students do go straight from first degree into PhD studies, or after a year or two's work experience, this should not put you off - you bring a wealth of world experience to your research and interpretation of results that the younger students can't match (in business studies). The statement 'complete my life' is a valid point for mature students - one that does motivate when times are hard. As regards funding - forget it - unless you can do a full time PhD on a studentship. For DBA there's no funding unless you have a very generous employer!

I have experienced a similar situation - and am formulating a legal action too. The academic establishment closes ranks when you complain and you get nowhere. Good luck, and keep updating us on your progress - I'll do likewise.