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• Best Online DBA Degrees

Best Online DBA Degrees Of 2024

Updated: Nov 2, 2023, 4:46pm

Today’s evolving business climate requires strong leadership to navigate interpersonal issues, regulatory requirements and financial concerns. Industry experience qualifies you to pursue top leadership roles in your field, but a formal, advanced education can put you in an even better position.

The highest academic degree that business leaders can obtain is a doctor of business administration (DBA). You can even earn a DBA degree online, as many business schools have expanded their programs to the virtual space.

This in-depth guide offers everything you need to know about online DBA degree programs, including our ranking of the top 10 schools in the field, accreditation information, common coursework and tuition costs.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We scored 13 accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online DBA degree programs in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes and student experience. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites. Data is accurate as of June 2023.

We scored schools based on the following categories:

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Percentage of students in federal student loan deferment

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

We chose the 10 best schools to display based on those receiving a curved final score of 80% or higher.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

• Best Online Accounting Degrees
• Best MBA In Finance Online
• Best Online Finance Degrees
• Best Online Master’s In Accounting Degrees
• Best Online Master’s In Finance

Best Online DBA Degree Options

Should you enroll in an online dba program, accreditation for online dba programs, how to find the right online dba program for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online dba programs, walsh college, northwood university, university of la verne, wilmington university, city university of seattle, franklin university, johnson & wales university-online, california baptist university, saint leo university, liberty university.

Graduate Tuition

$1,038/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

Based in Troy, Michigan, Walsh College offers an online DBA program that uses synchronous coursework to mirror the in-person learning experience. Learners near campus can also opt for hybrid delivery. Walsh allows students to complete residencies on campus or via Zoom.

After completing coursework in areas like ethical business practices, high performance leadership, economic model analysis and marketing strategy, each learner engages in a five-part dissertation process spanning 15 credits.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on a set schedule
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: $50
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: High performance leadership, organizational resilience framework
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: No, residency available online or on campus

$1,250/credit

The online DBA program at Midland, Michigan’s Northwood University (NU) features flexible scheduling with one annual, in-person residency. Coursework takes a business analytics approach, preparing graduates to work as critical thinkers in the modern business landscape.

NU learners can develop their professional and personal networks through their cohorts and residency experiences. Students begin their dissertation in their first year of the program and complete requirements over the course of the three-year degree.

• Our Flexibility Rating: N/A
• Degree Credit Requirements: 54 to 60 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part time, full time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Applied data analytics, strategic human resources
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, one residency per year

$1,275/credit

The University of La Verne , located in California, features an online DBA program with asynchronous delivery and hybrid learning on weekends and evenings for local students. Coursework blends conceptual assignments and real-world business issues to bridge the gap between theoretical and practical problem-solving.

The three-year program divides into foundational and core coursework across the first two years, with a final year dedicated to the dissertation. Core classes include marketing theory and strategic management. Before researching and defending a dissertation, each student completes a data analysis dissertation course to develop regression analysis skills.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
• Application Fee: N/A
• Degree Credit Requirements: 54 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Nature of inquiry, marketing theory
• In-Person Requirements: No

$2,088/credit

Headquartered in Newcastle, Delaware, Wilmington University allows students to pursue an online DBA through asynchronous or hybrid delivery. This program holds accreditation from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education. Each online student in the WilmU DBA program must complete a two-day residency on campus as they begin work on their dissertation.

Along with core coursework, learners can complete elective courses in advanced organizational behavior and advanced marketing, or they can substitute these courses for other doctoral-level classes, with faculty approval. WilmU maintains connections with the business world, allowing students to partner with real-world organizations as part of their dissertations.

• Application Fee: $35
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Statistics for research, executive decision-making
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, two-day residency on campus

$785/credit

The online DBA program at City University of Seattle (CityU) comprises 91 credits, features asynchronous learning and makes its in-person attendance for its residency requirement optional, allowing for maximum flexibility. Students can craft their own concentrations through independent study, credit transfer or faculty approval.

The dissertation requirement at CityU makes up 18 credits. The process begins with a prospectus course in which students explore topics and submit an outline of their methods and intended outcomes. Next, they officially propose their topics and present their projects to staff after researching and formalizing their findings.

• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 91 quarter credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Financial decision-making, research design
• Concentrations Available: Student-proposed
• In-Person Requirements: No, optional in-person residency

$748/credit

Franklin University , located in Columbus, Ohio, features an online DBA program with transfer-friendly policies, allowing students to complete up to 41% of curriculum requirements with past learning. Students engage in asynchronous coursework, completing assignments at their convenience.

Franklin divides its three-year program into two years of coursework and one year dedicated to a dissertation. Along with proposing, completing and defending a dissertation, each learner must complete a comprehensive exam in their final year.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 58 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Organizational leadership, qualitative data analysis
• Concentrations Available: Accounting, education, health informatics, healthcare management, human resource management, finance, public administration, methodology, information technology, marketing, instructional design leadership

$993/credit

The online doctor of business administration program at Johnson & Wales University (JWU), based on Providence, Rhode Island, prepares graduates to pursue leadership roles in private and public sector industries like business, nonprofits, healthcare and higher education. Evidence-based coursework uses real-world case studies for learners to develop their problem-solving skills.

JWU’s DBA program does not require an on-campus residency, and students advance through the dissertation process in a “lock-step” format to ensure timely progress. The dissertation is an outcomes-based research project that seeks to make a positive impact on the modern business world.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• Program Enrollment Options: Full time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Contemporary leadership issues, organizational behavior

$795/credit

California Baptist University (CBU), located in Riverside, California, features an online doctor of business administration with asynchronous course delivery. Students focus on one course at a time for eight weeks so they can quickly advance through the program. A cohort model allows students to build their professional networks through the program.

Courses like research design and research methods prepare learners for their dissertations. Students develop their dissertations with faculty and in small groups before presenting them before faculty and peers.

• Application Fee: $45
• Degree Credit Requirements: 56 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Accelerated,full time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Strategic marketing, qualitative research methods

$965/credit

At Florida’s Saint Leo University , students can pursue an online DBA program with outcomes-driven coursework and practical learning opportunities. Saint Leo requires each DBA learner to complete three in-person residencies.

The curriculum emphasizes research through quantitative and qualitative methodology courses, along with data analysis courses for business decision-making. Before defending their dissertations, students complete a comprehensive written exam. Saint Leo charges online students an additional $40 per course.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 57 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Global perspectives in human resource, applied research
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, three in-person residencies

$595/credit

Based in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers an online DBA program with a wealth of specialization offerings. Students coming from other degree programs can transfer in up to 30 credits for this 60-credit degree. Classes run for eight weeks, and the program holds accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

Online DBA students at Liberty can complete their degree without any in-person components. The program offers eight start dates each year, and courses follow an asynchronous delivery format.

• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Current topics in business administration, strategic allocation of financial resources, case study research methods and consulting techniques
• Concentrations Available: Accounting, executive coaching, finance, healthcare management, human resources, information systems, international business, leadership, marketing, nonprofit leadership and management, project management, real estate development, Six Sigma, strategic management, strategic media and digital content, supply chain management and logistics, tourism management

Many schools have expanded their online degree offerings, including doctoral programs, as distance learning has grown in popularity. To know whether an online DBA program will work for you, consider your personal learning style and scheduling bandwidth.

For example, if you plan to work full time while pursuing a doctoral degree, prioritize programs that allow you to learn on your own time or attend courses on weekends and in the evenings.

Flexible programs, such as those with asynchronous delivery, require you to stay on top of coursework with little oversight. Though this freedom can benefit your busy schedule, you must also have strong motivation and organizational skills to complete assignments on your own time.

Synchronous programs require you to log on at specific times to participate in discussions and lectures. If your degree uses synchronous delivery, ensure the course schedule fits with your personal and professional obligations.

While online DBAs typically allow you to complete courses from a distance, some may include in-person elements like residencies. Make sure that you can fulfill these requirements before applying to any programs.

Along with these factors, consider the following as you research online DBA programs.

Accreditation is a process through which schools, along with their departments and programs, undergo a voluntary evaluation by a third party for academic rigor, student outcomes and resources.

Institutional Accreditation

Make sure any college or university you’re considering holds accreditation at the institutional level. Attending an institutionally accredited school ensures your eligibility for federal student aid, credit transfers, employment and professional credentials. The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognizes the following agencies to provide school-wide accreditation:

• WASC Senior College and University Commission
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Higher Learning Commission
• New England Commission of Higher Education
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

CHEA and ED recognize other institutional accreditors, too, but those listed above are the most reputable and common.

CHEA provides a searchable database of accredited schools and programs. As you research universities with online DBA programs, use this tool to check their accreditation status.

Programmatic Accreditation

Universities usually offer online DBAs through their business departments. The primary accreditors for business schools are the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

Though these three agencies apply different criteria for programmatic accreditation, they share a goal of ensuring educational programs provide high-quality business curricula and adequately prepare students for the workforce.

Here’s how to narrow down your options once you’ve decided to pursue an online DBA.

Consider Your Future Goals

To find the right DBA degree, take stock of your personal and professional goals. DBA programs typically prepare learners for executive-level and leadership roles in various industries. If you’re planning to apply for advanced positions in the public and private sectors, you’re on the right path with a DBA program. However, if you’d prefer to work in research or academia as a business professor, a more research-focused Ph.D. in business may offer a better pathway.

Regardless of which degree best suits your needs, you should look for schools offering experiential learning opportunities that align with your career goals. For example, some programs require internships, and others feature residency components. By completing on-the-job learning in a business environment relevant to your career aspirations, you can get your foot in the door with prospective employers while still in school.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Attending a doctoral program requires a serious financial investment. Unlike Ph.D. programs, DBA degrees typically do not receive full funding, though you can often cover significant portions of tuition with scholarships from your university and other providers.

Among the schools ranked on this page, the average total cost of tuition for earning a DBA online is $61,879.

To help cover tuition, fees and other expenses, apply for federal student aid by filling out a FAFSA form. After undergoing an evaluation of your finances, you will receive information on your eligibility for various forms of aid, such as grad PLUS loans and unsubsidized loans. Look to loans after researching all available scholarships and grants since loans require repayment with interest, while scholarships and grants do not.

Colleges and independent providers typically deliver grants and scholarships based on identity, academic achievement and need. Always research whether a prospective school offers scholarships, assistantships and other forms of aid before applying; knowing your tuition is covered allows you to focus more on your studies.

What is a DBA degree?

The doctor of business administration is a terminal business degree that takes a practical approach to learning. Students typically complete and defend a dissertation after passing a series of core courses. Some DBA programs allow for specializations as well.

How long does an online DBA take?

An online DBA can take three to five years, depending on factors like course load, delivery method and dissertation requirements.

Which is better, a Ph.D. or a DBA?

When comparing Ph.D. and DBA programs, the “better” degree depends on your personal and professional aspirations. A Ph.D. focuses more on business research, often leading to roles in academia. A DBA, on the other hand, emphasizes real-world applications and prepares graduates to pursue leadership roles in business.

Matt Whittle has experience writing and editing accessible education-related content in health, technology, nursing and business subjects. His work has been featured on Sleep.org, Psychology.org and NurseJournal.org.

10 Best Online DBA Degrees with No Dissertation Programs

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: February 23, 2024 , Reading time: 29 minutes

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The vast and diverse world of business presents a wealth of opportunities to students pursuing a career in this exciting and lucrative field. According to BLS, the employment trend in business and financial occupations is projected to rise by 4% between 2022 to 2032 . This can give way to a tremendous increase in new jobs over the decade, amounting to 911,400.

For Master’s in Business Administration holders seeking credential enhancement and career advancement, earning a Doctor of Business Administration is the way to go! This terminal program allows one to focus on a specific problem in business and apply their research skills to solve it.

This business administration program can set up experienced professionals in the field of business, allowing them to demonstrate their knowledge and skills and eventually apply them in real-world settings. Fortunately, many universities and colleges offer a doctor of business administration program online.

Working professionals will be able to juggle their personal and professional responsibilities without compromising one over the other.

Check this out:

• The Best Online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Degrees
• The Best Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Online Graduate Schools
• The Best Ph.D. in Accounting Online Programs

Quick audio summary:

These online doctoral degree programs equip students with effective skills and strategies that have real-world applications. An online doctor of business administration degree helps students bolster credibility, expand career opportunities, and earn higher salaries in management and leadership roles.

Common Courses in DBA Programs

The curriculums of various online doctorate programs are typically designed by universities according to the learning outcomes that they have predetermined, along with the expertise of their faculty. These doctoral degree programs may, in turn, have their own sub-specializations, such as human resource management, healthcare management, or project management. These contribute to the variance in courses that are offered and the number of credit hours in that degree.

There are, however, a number of standard courses found across all these business administration programs. These may differ in their name, but they generally teach the same content/theme. Let’s look at some of them.

Research Design

As the next natural step after identifying a problem, a significant amount of effort is spent on crafting the proper research design to ensure that the needed data is gathered and that the data-gathering process avoids errors and takes inherent shortcomings into account.

DBA curriculums will almost always have a separate course dedicated to research design, as this is a skill set that has applicability that lasts long after a student earns their degree.

Quantitative and/or Qualitative Research

With the final research-based output in mind, some Universities may offer special separate courses on both Quantitative and Qualitative Research. While both are valid lines of inquiry that students can pursue (although quantitative research remains the more popular method by far across disciplines), they are different enough to warrant being treated separately.

Contemporary Global Issues/Current Topics

Universities may or may not subdivide these into courses that are more focused on specific topics, but most online doctorate degree programs will typically have a course on relevant global issues or current trends in the industry. This ensures that students get a more comprehensive grounding, as they may not necessarily be up to speed on all relevant aspects.

Organizational Behavior

This course forms part of the fundamental courses of most doctorate degree programs. As business professionals, it is essential to have an understanding of human behavior as it relates to the dynamics present within the organization’s structure.

Ethics in Business & Management

The curriculum design of some universities may place heavier emphasis on this course than others, but it is a matter of course that businesses and organizations have to adhere to standards of ethics and integrity in order to ensure success, not just for the sake of regulatory compliance.

Ethical standards come into play in many aspects of a business’s operations, from employee treatment to fair market practice to financial management. Like in other courses, this course often makes use of case studies and real-world insights.

Managing Innovation & Change

This course may have different names or a slightly different treatment, but most doctoral degree programs in business administration will feature this course. It is crucial for businesses to be able to anticipate changes and keep up with trends and innovations to maintain their edge, and it is important that business leaders be trained in this highly important skill set.

Business Strategy

Some DBA doctoral programs may also have a separate course on business strategy, often incorporating a component of actual practice/simulation within the context of business realities.

This course may also integrate the other crucial skill sets learned throughout the program. This helps refine the long-term strategic thinking and decision-making skillsets of students as business leaders.

Marketing Research

This course is a specialized research course focusing on consumer behavior and their response to trends, products, or services, often according to different classifying characteristics like age bracket. This is a crucial discipline that business leaders learn in order to better gauge the performance of their products and/or services, as well as help them anticipate trends and changes in consumer preferences.

Business Intelligence/Business Research

Business decisions are built on a foundation of data. This course discusses the principles related to data-driven business decision-making and introduces students to the various tools and techniques that aid in this regard.

Differences between a DBA and a Ph.D. in Business Administration

Let’s start with the similarities. A DBA and Ph.D. are both terminal degrees, which means they are the highest possible educational attainment that can be awarded in the field of business administration.

Being doctorate degrees, both also require some form of research-related/research-based work as part of their final output. However, a DBA is a terminal degree specific to business administration, while a Ph.D. will cut across disciplines and is a universal doctoral degree.

Another key difference between the two is in terms of the type of intellectual emphasis and/or learning outcome. DBAs are a professional terminal degree, and as a result, they tend to have a practice-focused curriculum that aims to produce highly skilled practitioner-scholars who bring advanced skillsets to their workplaces and industries.

A Ph.D. in business administration, meanwhile, has a primarily scholarly emphasis. This means that these degree programs aim for the production of new knowledge or the revisiting and updating of previous knowledge, all of which contribute to the overall body of knowledge and the theoretical basis upon which the discipline of business administration is founded.

PhDs, with their focus on scholarly research, tend to favor dissertations as their final requirement. Some DBAs also require dissertations, but with the practice-focused emphasis of DBA degrees, it’s not uncommon to have degrees that require capstone projects, i.e., applied research, as their final output, as this gives students an excellent avenue to put their coursework learnings into a practical research-based production, often called a problem-of-practice project.

With this difference in focus, graduates of DBA degree programs can have a variety of career paths they can take, as they invariably bring their new skillsets back to their industries. Graduates of Ph.D. programs also have this opportunity; however, given the scholarly focus of their degrees, a majority of them tend to go on to work in academia, taking up research and/or teaching roles.

Specializations in an Online Doctor of Business Administration Program

Earning an online DBA program requires careful consideration. Many universities offer specializations in their business administration doctoral degree programs. It is important that prospective students choose the right business administration degree that aligns with their goals and helps them succeed in their chosen fields.

Students who want to gain a solid understanding of the practical applications of a broad accounting perspective and technical accounting knowledge will want to choose the accounting specialization. It will help them explore relationships among business activities and performance and economic outcomes.

This specialization covers the analysis of advanced management and organization of business transactions, mostly related to assets, liabilities, and the results from business operations.

Entrepreneurship

Focused on entrepreneurship principles, this specialization may tackle entrepreneurship from startup to exit strategy to small business management. Students will be able to delve deep into advanced qualitative and quantitative research methods along with foundational applied research.

It often includes courses such as raising capital for business, strategy formulation, and strategic thinking. Graduates of this DBA program are expected to identify market opportunities, manage risks, pioneer innovations in the industry, raise capital, and so much more.

Designed to help students become well-rounded managers, just like conventional finance degree programs, this specialization equips them with an advanced level of financial and business knowledge. They will cover financial analysis, decision-making in finance, capital investment decisions, managing value creation, and managing for value creation, among others. They will also be able to explore essential theories like option pricing, hedging, and derivatives.

Healthcare Administration

More important than ever, healthcare administrators are integral in leaving a positive impact on healthcare organizations and communities they serve. The Healthcare Administration specialization in a DBA program helps students acquire strong management and business leadership skills to make sound decisions with regard to healthcare policy and economics.

Students are expected to develop a better understanding of the theoretical and research-based healthcare industry management issues.

Human Resource Management

Professionals in the human resource management field will want to assume critical seats at the executive table as strategic partners. Earning a DBA degree program specializing in human resource management can help them prepare for this leadership position by gaining ample theoretical knowledge, industry insights, and solid capabilities to lead, build, and empower a diverse workforce.

They will cover contemporary organizational issues, including succession planning, corporate social responsibility, management of external strategic partnerships, and more.

International Business

Another popular specialization in an online DBA program is international business. This particular concentration equips graduate students with the skills needed to lead the business world with integrity and excellence. It is designed to help students become global business leaders and change-makers.

They will typically tackle business subjects such as global trade, international business environment, global financial markets, market-based global operations, and international strategic management.

It is crucial to have a capable person leading the business in the right direction. DBA graduates who wish to brush up on their leadership skills amid the increasing advancements in technology and the rapid changes in the overall business landscape will want to take a specialization in leadership. Most leadership specializations cover various leadership principles and practices.

Students in this DBA program are expected to demonstrate an effective entrepreneurial and leadership mindset in the face of new ventures and innovative economic development.

Project Management

This specialization emphasizes the importance of proactive leaders that advance the organization’s strategic objectives. They are taught to study the processes for successfully managing a complex portfolio of projects and analyzing opportunities that contribute to improved portfolio performance.

Students are expected to learn project-based strategic leadership skills and organizational practices that support the vision and growth of a business organization.

Organizational Behavior is a DBA specialization that aims to understand individuals and organizations and their role in shaping the economic and social life of societies. Some of the subjects tackled in this concentration include organizational design, corporate governance, organizational identity, negotiation, leadership, teams, and institutional change, among others.

Information Systems Management

In this DBA specialization, students will acquire knowledge and skills that will improve their capabilities in managing information systems. They will be able to understand and apply information systems in various management scenarios. Students in this online DBA degree specialization are expected to help businesses by providing technological solutions and leveraging them to enhance an organization’s competitive position in the market.

Lucrative Career Paths to Pursue a Doctorate in Business Administration

Earning a doctor of business administration degree can do wonders for one’s career. They can enhance their professional credentials by acquiring marketable, high-level skills that are in demand in today’s employment landscape. For those looking for more opportunities to expand their current career and grow their compensation, the following careers are ideal choices.

Business Consultant

In the United States, management consultants receive more than $2 billion for their services . They are primarily responsible for solving clients’ problems and making recommendations based on the diagnosis. They often collect information on the clients’ business using various tools, including surveys, shadowing, interviews, and reading reports, among others.

As a business consultant, one needs to be knowledgeable about the many facets of the business and get insights into market trends and forecasts. They are known to be good at problem-solving, analytical thinking, and innovation, all of which are vital to increasing profitability and efficiency. At present, business consultants have a median pay of $93,000 annually .

Considered financial experts, economists study market activity to collect and analyze financial and socioeconomic data. They are responsible for advising businesses and other important organizations on economic decisions. They are also tasked to develop models for economic forecasting. Economists often work with a team of financial analysts to understand economic trends and help business leaders make better decisions and succeed in achieving their goals.

Economists are expected to have exceptional organizational and interpersonal skills. They must also employ logic and problem-solving acumen in order to be successful. Annually, economists receive a median pay of $113,940 .

Project Manager

Companies that aim to finish projects from beginning to end will want to hire someone who can oversee the whole thing and make an impact on the whole organization. Project managers fulfill this role. Their responsibilities include conceptualizing, planning, developing, and implementing projects. It is also part of their jobs to set deadlines and monitor the project’s progress.

To lead the project successfully, project managers must possess strong knowledge of the risk management process. They must have good leadership and management skills to thrive in this role. Project managers can expect a median pay of $95,370 per year .

Logistician

Tasked to analyze and oversee the global supply chain management and life cycle of assigned products in an organization, logisticians ensure the smooth process of the whole operation, from distribution to delivery. They are responsible for communicating with customers and ensuring their needs are met, along with the coordination and allocation of available materials, supplies, and finished products.

Successful logisticians are known for their extensive knowledge of supply chain management, namely acquisition and distribution. Every year, the median pay for logisticians is $77,520 .

Organizational Development Manager

Often acting as a liaison and advisor to an organization’s leadership, organizational development managers plan, develop, and implement programs that help train and develop employees. They spearhead the needs assessment for training and staff development to help advance effective employee performance that leads to the realization of company goals and objectives.

Organizational development managers must be excellent at written and oral communication. They must demonstrate effective management skills and multimedia expertise. The annual median salary of this job position is $120,000 .

Director of Human Resources

Every organization needs a solid human resources department. As the director of human resources, one will lead, plan, develop, and coordinate important policies and activities, ensuring the legal compliance of the organization’s talent strategy. They are expected to deal with the recruitment, interview, hiring, and training of the new HR department staff and organize or facilitate human resource development programs.

As human resources directors, they need to have excellent communication, organizational, and time management skills. This job position can provide a median salary of $130,000 annually .

Government Program Manager

The primary role of a government program manager is to coordinate multiple government projects to ensure that all goals are aligned. Part of their tasks include the creation and management of long-term goals, budget development, and team management. At times, government project managers must also identify solutions to challenges when necessary.

Project management specialists can receive $101,610 annually for their median pay , according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Nonprofit Executive Director

Chief executive officers often deal with the creation of business plans, improving performance, and overseeing the day-to-day activities of an organization. As a non-profit executive director, one is expected to do the same thing. However, they must be guided by the goal of setting the nonprofit organization apart from the competition. They are also likely to develop and implement consistent inventory and cost accounting procedures.

Non-profit executive directors must employ multi-tasking, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Their median annual salary is $100,090 every year .

Strategic Planner

Strategic planners are integral to the overall business strategy as they often develop strategic plans and asses the company’s performance. Their primary responsibility is to conduct research and analyze data that can help them make informed business decisions. They need to help shape the company’s direction and reach the set objectives.

The skills needed for strategic planners to succeed include understanding market research and data analysis, business process analysis, strategic thinking abilities, and organizational and leadership skills.

Market Research Analyst

To identify new markets and sales opportunities, market research analysts must be experts at researching, compiling, and analyzing product and market conditions information. They often make recommendations related to their findings and deliver reports and presentations to the executive management.

As a market research analyst, one is expected to have excellent organizational and communication skills. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, their median pay annually amounts to $68,230 .

10 Top Online DBA Programs that Do Not Require Dissertation

Bellevue university.

Doctor of Business Administration

The doctor of administration degree offered by Bellevue University is designed to be completed in three years, with built-in two-week breaks. This is possible if one transfers their MBA credits and finishes the courses with satisfactory grades.

This program helps graduate students in solving current problems in the business industry. They will be well-equipped to lead in top executive positions by addressing the complex business landscape with the use of their vision, knowledge, and clarity. It is also one of the online DBA programs that do not require a dissertation. Instead, they are tasked to complete a research-based doctoral project that prepares them to be experts and thought leaders.

Plus, the online format of the program allows working business professionals to complete their doctoral degrees in a reasonable amount of time. Students are not required to render on-campus residency.

Graduates become equipped to lead organizations effectively through communicating advanced business analyses and scholarly thinking. The program curriculum has a total of 91 credit hours.

Franklin University

Another DBA program that is available 100% online is offered at Franklin University. This program helps students prepare for managing corporate-wide business initiatives for competitive advantage and profitability. They are taught to keep business administration leadership practices in mind and apply them in the real world.

The program requires the completion of 58 credit hours, which is possible to accomplish in as few as three years. Students are allowed to transfer as many as 24 credit hours of previously earned credits. Some of the courses covered in the program include Organizational Leadership, Organizational Performance Analysis, Ethics, and Social Responsibility, Change Management and Organizational Development, and Strategic Thinking, Decision Making, and Innovation, among others.

These DBA online programs can also be customized with a variety of electives.

Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University offers a Doctor of Business Administration degree program to help students rise up to the challenges faced by the global workforce. This program has a unique alternative path for those who were unable to complete their degree for various reasons. They are taught key strategies for advanced change management and complex business problems through the use of Devoe School of Business problem-based learning model.

Students can enjoy a low-cost DBA program with three specialization options, including healthcare administration, management, and information systems. This program has a fast-paced option that allows students to complete the program in as few as 22 months.

Students are expected to create solutions to complex business problems. Some of the courses covered in the program include Virtuous Marketing, Writing for Business Practitioners, and Applied Doctoral Program Evaluation and Assessment, among others.

It is important for students to complete the required credit hours with a minimum GPA of 3.25. They will need to complete the applied doctoral project in order to earn the degree.

Capella University

Students who want to advance as business leaders may want to consider earning a Doctor of Business Administration degree at Capella University. This program equips students with practical tools to reach the goals of the business.

The program has several specializations to help one build the skills needed to become a leader, consultant, or educator. The three specialization options are General Management, Organizational Leadership and Development, and Strategy and Innovation.

Instead of a dissertation, students are required to complete a capstone doctoral research project. It gives emphasis to applied research to help solve real-world problems within the organization. Students can also choose between two learning formats, namely GuidedPath for a flexible yet structured approach or FlexPath for a self-paced format.

Thomas Edison State University

The online doctorate degree program in business administration offered at Thomas Edison State University has several available areas of study for graduate students to choose from, including Organizational Leadership and Human Resource Management. This business administration online program is designed to help business students and professionals grow in their careers as executive leaders, educators, and consultants.

This affordable online DBA program has a unique curriculum design composed of unique content domains, namely:

• critical thought and action,
• integrated topics in business and management,
• teaching and consultative professional practice

Students can expect a personalized instructional delivery within a full-distance learning environment.

At the end of the business administration online program, students must be able to integrate financial, operational, and cultural data analysis in organizational strategic planning and management. They must earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

Walden University

Walden University offers an online doctorate in business administration degree program that offers students a wide range of 11 specialization areas, designed to give experienced business professionals and academics a good venue to gain crucial and highly sought-after skills in a flexible format that adapts to their prior commitments.

The program is Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs-recognized and has a generous maximum time limit of 8 years. Students can likewise transfer in up to 17 previously earned credits. For their final requirement, students should complete a capstone project.

Wilmington University

Wilmington University’s online Doctor of Business Administration degree program is designed for managers, leaders, consultants, and those in educator roles, increasing their skillsets and capacities in preparing them to become critical thought leaders.

The program is accredited by the IACBE (International Accreditation Council for Business Education) and contains a total of 54 credit hours. The degree program coursework has a 2½-year completion timeframe, and there is a projected additional time of 1-2 years to complete the final requirement, which can either be a doctoral dissertation or a research project.

Likewise, the program design allows students to complete the program at their own pace but, at the same time, fosters a high degree of interaction and participation.

Trevecca Nazarene University

Trevecca Nazarene University offers its Doctor of Business Administration degree program in an online format. The degree is designed to equip students to thrive in corporate or academic settings, giving them skillsets that can also be applicable in teaching and consultant roles.

The degree program’s coursework can be completed within 32 months, and there are also no residency requirements. Students are grouped into cohorts, but class sizes are kept small, pegged at a maximum of around 19 students per class. As part of the final requirements, students are given a choice of completing either a Doctoral Dissertation or an Applied Doctoral Project.

University of the Incarnate Word

The University of the Incarnate Word offers its Doctor of Business Administration in a blended format combining online and in-person classes, although students can also opt to complete the program entirely online.

The degree program has a total of 45 credit hours, and each semester is 16 weeks long. Some of us who’ve earned a business-related Master’s Degree before may have run into time crunch issues, so students will welcome the generous 10-year maximum completion limit for this degree program, plenty of time to work on their final requirements, which takes the form of either peer-reviewed publications, conference presentation, or work-based project.

Oklahoma Wesleyan University

Doctor of Business Administration – Dissertation OR Work Project

Oklahoma Wesleyan University offers a DBA degree program that prepares students to become skilled scholar-practitioners who can contribute meaningfully in a variety of settings, be it the classroom or the board room.

The OKWU Doctor of Business Administration degree program contains a total of 56 credit hours, and classes are arranged sequentially. Students take one class at a time, with each class lasting eight weeks. This way, the whole program can be finished within three years.

Likewise, the required separate residency time in other degree programs is already integrated directly into the coursework flow. Students can also transfer up to 15 credits upon enrollment into the program. Lastly, as part of the final requirements, students can choose between completing a Doctoral Dissertation or a Work Project.

Grants & Scholarships

Universities will typically have a set of grants and scholarships that can be availed by students. Unlike loans, these do not have any attached expectation of being repaid; however, there can be other things expected of students, such as maintaining a grading standard in the case of scholarships, aside from the grade standards set by the degree program.

Scholarships also tend to be quite selective, and scholarship funds will have their target sectors and corresponding criteria, such as financial needs, based on socioeconomic standing.

Federal aid

Most degree programs offered by reputable universities will invariably qualify for federal financial aid. Along with undergraduate students, federal aid is available for graduate students as well. Some other forms of financial aid, such as Pell grants, are also accessed through the FAFSA.

The abiding message that gets repeated every year is for students to put in the time to fill out the paperwork and apply, as students miss out on a significant amount of college aid because they do not apply. 

Special discounts

Some universities offer special tuition discounts to students who belong to a certain sector. The most common of these are military discounts that are often given to members of the armed forces—either active duty or veterans—and even their family members. Rates vary, but some universities can give up to 10% off for some items like cost per credit hour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the timeline for earning an online doctor of business administration degree program.

An online Doctor of Business Administration program typically requires the completion of 54 to 60 credits. The program duration will depend primarily on whether the DBA students are earning the degree full-time or part-time.

For full-time students, it is possible to complete the program in three to five years. Some online Doctor of Business Administration programs may offer generous transfer credits policies and accelerated degree programs, which can significantly cut down the length of time it needs to complete online DBA programs.

Other schools offer multiple start terms, so it can also affect the time it takes for one to earn their online DBA degree program.

How much does an Online Doctor of Business Administration degree cost?

There is a degree of variance between universities in terms of overall cost due to a number of factors. Some degree programs require fewer credit hours in their curriculum than others.

Some universities may provide books and other course material for free, while students may have to purchase their own with others. Universities may also have differentiated in-state and out-of-state tuition rates, with the latter tending to be higher. Still, some universities may be in cities or states that have a higher overall cost of living, and that will invariably show up in their tuition rates.

A good starting point to get an estimate, meanwhile, would be to use costs per credit hour multiplied by the number of credits in a given course. Online DBA programs have a ballpark range of $600-$1,000 per credit hour and typically have a little more or less than 60 credit hours in total.

Other costs, such as textbooks and technology fees, are then added on, but it’s not unusual for DBA online doctoral degree programs to run into several tens of thousands of dollars for the total costs for the 2-3 years that they last.

Of course, like any graduate degree, there are a number of options students can avail of in order to help them finance their education, aside from the standard financial loans. Here are some of the typical financial aid options that are available.

Who is the DBA program for?

Designed for senior executives and other top business professionals, a DBA program is ideal for those who want to enrich their track record in management and leadership roles. This program is a good choice for senior managers who seek to acquire insights and expertise that will advance their senior roles. This program can also help them develop new business models and strategies through utilizing research and analysis.

What are some common requirements to get into online DBA programs?

Universities will have slight differences in their procedures when reading the fine print, but DBA degree programs will have a standard set of requirements that are also in typical graduate degrees. Standard GPA cutoffs are most often observed, typically around the 3.0 mark. Some universities also require GRE/GMAT/MAT scores, although some waive this requirement or mark them as optional.

Universities will also need proof of having earned the required previous education, i.e., a bachelor’s and/or master’s degree, and official transcripts will be required. More importantly, universities look for a form of quality assurance from applicants, and they would often require/prefer that the previous degrees be awarded by colleges/universities that have regional accreditation.

As an added quality assurance requirement of student applicants, universities often require them to have character references, often as letters of recommendation. Being a terminal degree, there is a degree of selectiveness.

Universities would prefer students who are intellectually/mentally ready for the coming coursework, and they would screen for this using personal essays at the minimum, complemented by subsequent interviews with faculty members.

What are the requirements to successfully earn the Doctor of Business Administration program?

Most online DBA programs have a rigorous curriculum that contains major courses, electives, and research core courses. Most DBA programs require 60 credits, more or less.

While it is typically required to complete the doctoral dissertation process to earn the DBA degree, some programs have alternatives to dissertations. DBA graduates must meet the requirements for graduation, often encompassing a doctoral capstone project or research project.

What are the benefits of completing a web-based doctorate program?

As is the case with DBA doctoral programs, there can be significant associated costs, but there are certainly benefits to pursuing this degree, aligning with everyone’s overall goal of not stagnating.

Being a terminal degree, the title of Doctor of Business Management represents a significant peak of professional achievement. It also implies that the degree holder has substantial experience under their belt within the industry: as with other professional terminal degrees, it dramatically helps if students have a reservoir of experience and insight that they can draw on to get a more meaningful learning experience out of their coursework.

Earning a doctorate degree also opens the door to other opportunities both within a certain industry or in a related field; graduates can add to their expertise and move up to more challenging responsibilities and positions, launch a career as industry consultants, or even take up teaching careers for some.

Meanwhile, online learning may have its tradeoffs, such as losing the unique interactions and overall learning atmosphere that comes with face-to-face classes, but it certainly has its benefits, particularly to typical students of Doctor of Business Administration degrees who are most often busy working professionals.

Online degree programs are specifically tailored to fit their prior professional commitments. These degree programs may follow self-paced or asynchronous models, which means students retain their flexibility by letting them access coursework at their most convenient time.

Some doctor of business administration degree programs may also follow a cohort model, which means they still get to build meaningful partnerships with other students in their cohort, partnerships that they can readily transfer into their professional sphere, as they often come from within the same industry.

No need to worry about educational quality either when it comes to online learning. Online learning may still have some connotations of being of less quality, but they are often held by universities to the same standard as they do with their traditional degree programs.

Programs that have both a traditional and an online delivery format within the same university will invariably follow the same curriculum design, have the same coursework, and be taught by the same faculty.

Key Takeaways

The DBA is a practice-focused degree and is aimed at producing graduates who are business leaders with advanced skill sets. The Ph.D. in Business Administration, meanwhile, is a scholarly-focused degree and produces graduates who work on the theoretical basis of the business management discipline.

DBA programs are often designed with specialization areas, containing specialized courses that cater to student’s specific areas of interest or overall career plans. 

Degrees that do not require dissertation research as their final requirement require a capstone project that integrates practice-based applied research. This serves as the first venue for students to put their learning into practice.

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Online Doctor of Business Administration

The online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree program develops adaptable business leaders for ever-changing global work environments. Dive into the world of business research.

• Program Information

Touro University Worldwide’s (TUW) online Business Administration doctorate prepares students to lead in top executive positions and address the complexities of today’s business landscape with vision, knowledge, and clarity. Doctoral students build their knowledge through engagement with faculty mentorship, access to technology, and unique learning opportunities and research activities commensurate with the doctoral level.

The online DBA curriculum explores theoretical foundations and cutting-edge business research to expand students’ competencies in their current or future careers. In addition, students build professional skills and tools to design evidence-based business research and managerial solutions in their professional areas of expertise. Become a more confident business leader equipped to face the challenges and evolving demands of today’s complex, global business environments.

Research-Based Doctoral Project

This business doctorate does not require a traditional dissertation. Instead, by the end of the online DBA degree program, you will develop a research-based doctoral project in any business or managerial topic of your choice that prepares you as a subject matter expert and thought leader in an area of interest. Business research topics may include but not be limited to

• Healthcare management
• Human resources
• International/global business
• Nonprofit management
• Real estate
• Strategic management
• Supply chain

What makes this Doctor of Business Administration program different?

• Affordable tuition from a Nonprofit Accredited University
• 100% online
• No GRE required
• Accelerated admissions process
• 6 starts throughout the year

Note: This degree does not lead to any form of licensure or certification.

The Doctor of Business Administration program is offered 100% online and can be achieved while working full-time. Open to all qualified students, this online DBA program is carefully designed to work well for busy professionals and working adults. All students need is a computer and internet connection to participate in the virtual classroom. The doctoral curriculum is designed to be directly applicable to your career goals as an innovative business leader prepared to utilize business research insights in your area of interest.

Elevate Your Leadership Skills Through TUW’s Online DBA

Advance as a forward-thinking business leader through our online Doctor of Business Administration degree program. A doctoral program provides the opportunity to explore business research through a new lens. Request information to learn more about Touro University Worldwide’s transformative online DBA degree.

What Can You Do With a Doctor of Business Administration?

Earning a Doctor of Business Administration from Touro University Worldwide prepares graduates to work at the pinnacle of business leadership and research. Because of their expertise in business theory and strategy, as well as their high level of professional skills, those with a DBA qualify for a range of challenging, rewarding positions. Potential job titles include:

• Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
• Chief Operating Officer (COO)
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
• Senior Management Consultant
• Director of Strategic Planning
• University Professor or Researcher
• Entrepreneur

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median annual salary for top executives is $100,090. The BLS projects 3% job growth in the field over the next decade. The online TUW DBA prepares graduates with skills and knowledge they need for success in these in-demand fields.

BLS salary source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/top-executives.htm

Core Requirements

36 semester credits.

This course provides students an in-depth study and analysis of organizational theory from a business perspective. The course will explore human behaviors in businesses, which include attitudes, and business functions that lend to enhanced performance and profitability in business.

This course addresses principles of business operations and management across cultures to assimilate for effective functional operational processes and principles that support organization, operations, systems, and employee management. Students will apply theory to practice for business operations relevant to various cultural backgrounds in a variety of business organizations.

This course addresses the best practices of governance and accountability in the business environment. Special topics include underlying theories relative to ethics role in best businesses practices of governance and accountability, importance of accountability and transparency in business leadership, and the importance of governance on business performance.

This course provides students with an in-depth understanding of the importance of ethics and social responsibility in business and explores practical solutions to ethical challenges in contemporary business. Special emphasis includes the identification of ethical business challenges and the associated practical approaches to determine solutions.

This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of current business based financial management theories and models applicable to improve decision making that influence both business performance and opportunity. Students use the contemporary finance management tools to apply the principles in a variety of business settings.

In this course, students apply a practitioner perspective in contemporary marketing for decision-making to increase the performance of in organizations. Special topics include pricing, product development, channel of distributions, marketing research, global marketing practices and e-marketing methodologies to provide a competitive advantage in applicable industries, sectors and global markets.

In this course, students explore applied research utilizing the business research process. This course is one of a few quantitative reasoning courses that prepare the student for advanced coursework in quantitative research methods.

In this course, students apply theories associated with turnaround and organizational renewal strategies in business. Special emphasis is on various turnaround and renewal models and the implementation of the models in the application of evidenced-based solutions in the business environment.

The fundamental concepts of quantitative research methods will include descriptive statistics and fundamental concepts that serve as the basis for more advanced coursework and data analysis specifically tailored to business.

Advancing the knowledge and skills in quantitative research places emphasis on research design and framework, applicable statistics for data analysis, interpretation of findings; and the presentation of results with the scope of improving business decisions.

Survey Design exposes scholar-practitioners to a variety of areas that are key to understanding and mastering methodology through surveys applicable to the business environment. Special emphasis in this course is identification of applicable survey design from associated literature for a selected area of research, and identification of applicable survey questions. In addition, students begin to search and select a faculty Chair and Committee in preparation to transition to DBA 712, and are introduced to the primary learning platform system that will be utilized throughout the entire Research Project process.

Doctoral Research Proposal Development Courses

3 semester credits.

In this course, students select a faculty Chair and committee to prepare for the proposal phase of a selected research project. In this phase, students identify a research topic, develop an applicable conceptual framework, prepare a fundamental literature review, and propose a research methodology that will be orally defended no later than one week prior to the end of the session. In addition, students are introduced and use of the Doctoral Management System (DMS), which will be the primary learning platform throughout the entire Research Project process.

The Doctoral Research Project Courses

9 semester credits.

In this course, students continue to work with the Chair and Committee on their selected research project. In this phase of the project, students submit and receive approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) regarding the proposed research methodology to collect data, conduct interviews, etc. as applicable. Students conduct an enhanced literature review for their project to further strengthen their conceptual framework identified in the proposal phase.

In this course, students continue to work with the Chair and Committee on their selected research project. In this phase of the project, students analyze data collected, write the results and begin to shape the research project such as adding the introduction, executive summary, discussions, etc.

Students complete work on their Research Project and Research Project Defense. In this course, students finalize the research project working with the Chair and Committee. In this final phase, students will integrate and synthesize all components of the project and submit to the chair no later than the 4th week of the session in preparation of the final research project oral defense.

Credit Hours

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer Credits

Transfer in up to 6 credits

Accreditation

Request information, an affordable online dba program.

TUW’s tuition for the Business Administration doctoral program is $700 per semester credit unit. Connect with your employer to learn if they offer a tuition assistance program to support you as you complete the DBA program. A TUW tuition assistance counselor is available to you in order to determine your eligibility for financial aid and other tuition assistance programs.

Program Requirements

Upon completion of the required online courses in the DBA program, the student begins the first phase of the research project working closely with a faculty chair and committee in the completion of the research project phase proposal. In this phase, students personalize their academic journey for greater outcomes, by selecting a topic of interest to codify lessons learned in their field and or developing skills applicable to a research area of interest.

In the final phase, students finalize their research area of interest with a product that lends to real-world solutions while simultaneously achieving their desired goal in the program as a Doctor in the online DBA program.

For additional information , please visit the TUW Catalog or explore the DBA curriculum.

Admission Requirements

Students seeking to enroll in Touro University Worldwide’s Doctor of Business Administration program must meet the following criteria to be considered for admission:

• Have earned a Master’s degree from an accredited institution. If the degree was awarded overseas, it must be from an institution that is approved by the Ministry of Education.
• Cumulative GPA of 3.4 in the accredited Master’s Program

Students, who meet the above criteria, will be required to complete the following steps in order to be admitted and enrolled at TUW:

• Submit an application.
• Submit official transcripts from all institutions attended. Transcripts must come directly from the issuing institutions. Students who completed college coursework outside the United States must have their transcripts translated and evaluated. (See Foreign Credit for additional information.)
• Submit two letters of recommendation: one from someone familiar with the prospective student’s academic work; and a professional reference from someone who has supervised the prospective student in a work environment (preferably the current supervisor, excluding family members ).
• Submit a Doctoral Entrance Essay: The entrance essay is an essential part of the Doctoral Program and serves as the initial component of the student’s research portfolio. The entrance essay takes the form of a narrative presenting candidates’ biography, career plan, and goals in pursuing the doctorate at Touro University Worldwide.

The Doctoral Admissions Committee will evaluate the essay. Committee members seek evidence regarding critical qualities and abilities including:

• Motivation, maturity of judgment, and creativity;
• Evidence of a sound personal agenda that includes achievable personal and professional objectives;
• Awareness of intellectual strengths as well as skills needing development;
• Awareness of program requirements
• Proficiency with standard written English including the ability to express concepts and communicate meaning in concise writing

The Doctoral Entrance Essay components should include the following:

• Biographical ComponentEarlier learning experiences, both formal and informal, should be described. Characterize in terms of the nature and general outcome prior study, related work experience, and participation in scholarly research (if any).
• Career Plan ComponentExplain how a doctoral-level education fits with stated career plan and goals. How will doctoral study, in conjunction with background and interests, further those goals?
• The reasons for selecting the TUW program rather than another doctoral program;
• The particular goals anticipated to be attained through completion of the doctoral curriculum;
• Proposed topics being considered for the doctoral research project.

Expert Faculty Support

Touro University Worldwide’s business faculty are doctoral-level scholar-practitioners with a wealth of subject matter expertise in all disciplines within business administration and leadership. They are actively involved in their own professional work and/or business research interests across multiple fields such as accounting, human resource management, finance and more.

Toward the end of the program, you can select from this pool of expert faculty to guide and support your research project and to successfully complete the business doctorate. In this DBA program, you have access to a comprehensive support system dedicated to your success as an online doctoral student. 

Typical Time of Completion

The time it will take to complete the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree online can vary. The duration of the program depends on several factors, including the number of credits accepted for transfer and whether or not students take time off between semesters.

The typical length of time for the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is two (2) years.

Disclaimer: Students who enroll full-time (12 credits per semester for three semesters each academic year) can complete the degree in one and half (1.5) years. Students who enroll part-time (six credits per semester for three semesters each academic year) will complete the DBA program in 2 years.

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Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Complete your coursework in just 36 months — 100% online.

OKWU DBA program will prepare experienced professionals and academics to become senior executives, educators, and consultants. DBA graduates become “scholar-practitioners” who are able to provide meaningful contributions in either the classroom or the board room.

Expertise and Specialization

A doctorate in business allows individuals to specialize in a specific business area, becoming subject matter experts in their field and gaining a deep understanding of advanced concepts and theories.

Career Advancement

A doctorate in business can significantly enhance career prospects, opening doors to senior-level positions, leadership roles, and academic positions in universities and research institutions.

Research and Analytical Skills

Doctoral programs emphasize rigorous research methodologies, equipping individuals with advanced analytical and critical thinking skills necessary for conducting in-depth research and contributing to advancing knowledge in their field.

Career Path

DBA graduates benefit from enhanced opportunities in high-level positions and leadership roles. Some of those possible job titles include:

• Chief Financial Officer
• VP of Operations
• Executive Director
• Training and Development Manager

Earn Your Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA)

“Earning a DBA from OKWU can set students up for either a career in academia or a senior role in the industry. Our program is user-friendly – 100% online – with optional virtual connection sessions each week so students can network, bond, and collaborate with other professionals throughout the program.”

– Dr. Wendel Weaver, Dean

Why Pursuing a DBA Matters

A DBA is essential because it represents the highest level of education and expertise. It enables individuals to contribute to advancing knowledge through original research, shape business practices, and policies, and make significant contributions to academia, industry, and society. In addition, it opens doors to prestigious career opportunities, enhances critical thinking and analytical skills, and positions individuals as thought leaders and experts in their chosen areas of specialization. Ultimately, a doctorate in Business empowers individuals to make a meaningful impact and drive innovation in the dynamic and evolving business landscape.

The Advantage of Industry Experts

Elevate your education with the expertise of our distinguished faculty at the Chesapeake Energy School of Business. Our professors bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom, holding advanced post-graduate degrees in their respective subject areas. Benefit from their practical and industry insights.

Featured Core Classes

Issues in marketing.

This course clarifies the connections between a market-driven strategy, organizational and customer satisfaction, and profitable growth. By examining how strategic marketing approaches are developed and executed within both small and large organizations, students will be equipped to understand and create competitive advantages. The course will emphasize strategy development, implementation, and evaluation.

Issues in Accounting & Finance

This course bridges the conceptual foundations of accounting and finance with strategic implementation and considerations needs for the current marketplace. Introduction to seminal and current research in each area will be emphasized with the intended goal of applying this knowledge to solve contemporary problems facing business organizations.

Issues in Strategic Planning & Execution

In this course, students are introduced to classic theories of corporate strategy and then challenged to move beyond the mechanistic concepts, varied procedures, and tools that are widely used in organizational strategic planning. Emphasis will also be placed on the execution of strategies.

Cost Information

This 56-credit-hour degree will take approximately 36 months to complete and is available totally online. Apply today to learn more about the OKWU DBA.

Estimated Cost	Estimated Total
Registration Fee	$50
Graduation Fee	$100
Technology Fee @ $65 per term	$650
Student Health Fee*	$528
Tuition	$44,744
Total Estimated Cost	$46,072

*Students may opt out of the health fee.

Tuition and fees are subject to change at anytime. Changes to your course schedule may result in an increase in the estimated total cost.

Tuition Per Credit Hour

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Accredited Online DBA Program: Doctor of Business Administration

Business administration, degree at a glance.

• No transfer credits accepted
• All courses available online
• Select hybrid courses available
• Program restrictions apply
• Two-day residency required each term

TUITION RATES

• $1087 per credit
• Other fees may apply

Next Session Starts

Aim to take your career to new heights with an online Doctor of Business Administration from University of Maryland Global Campus. Join a community of accomplished colleagues and learn from globally diverse faculty as you strive to gain sophisticated knowledge for executive-level roles in business and management. 

Earn a Nationally Recognized DBA 

Designed with input from employers, industry experts, and scholars, our curriculum centers on high-level management theory, strategic thinking, organizational leadership, and the latest changes and research throughout the global business environment. Through analysis of real-world scenarios and a close-knit cohort structure, the program is designed to provide lifelong learning opportunities, an authentic support network, and long-term success. This program is built for executive-level working professionals looking to strengthen their leadership skills and advance their careers in a variety of fields.

By completing this program, you will be able to take advantage of the following benefits:

• IACBE accreditation: This program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
• Top program: UMGC is a member of the Executive DBA Council and was recognized by CEO Magazine in 2022 as one of the premier global DBA providers .
• Cohort structure: Our cohort structure promotes close, interactive partnerships among students, faculty, and staff and a supportive network for lifelong learning.
• On-site & virtual residencies: Each term, the DBA program’s mandatory residency consists of two full days of instruction, which include instructor-led lectures, guest lectures, cohort discussions, presentations of class assignments, and more. Students taking the core courses attend the residencies in-person, while dissertation students attend their residencies online.

See Courses & Program Info

View a complete list of courses, program-specific requirements, residency requirements, and more.

View Courses

This program requires a total of 48 credits . Take the following courses in the order listed: 

Prerequisite Course 

• Foundations of Doctoral Studies (3 Credits, DBA 600) 

Please note: This is an 11-week prerequisite course for admission to the program. A completed application for admission, including all documents described in the program admission requirements section, must be submitted by the application deadline in order to be considered for this course. 

Core Courses 

• Interpreting and Translating Management Theory in Practice (6 Credits, DBA 800) 
• Research as a Tool for Management Decision Making (6 Credits, DBA 810) 
• Evidence-Based Research Methods (6 Credits, DBA 820) 
• Data Analytics in Practice (6 Credits, DBA 830) 
• Designing Evidence-Based Management Solutions (6 Credits, DBA 840) 
• Producing Original Management Ideas That Influence: Publishing and Conferencing (6 Credits, DBA 850) 

Dissertation Courses  

• Producing Actionable Knowledge: Dissertation Problem Statement and Literature Review (4 Credits, DBA 860) 
• Producing Actionable Knowledge: Dissertation Methodology and Analysis (4 Credits, DBA 870) 
• Producing Actionable Knowledge: Management Implications from Dissertation Research (4 Credits, DBA 880) 

See Requirements

• You may only take one course per term. 
• You must complete each non-dissertation course with a grade of B or higher to advance to the next course. 
• You must complete each dissertation course with a grade of S or higher to advance to the next course. 
• The grade of C is not available for these courses. 
• The courses in this program must be successfully completed within a maximum of seven years. 
• Your course syllabus will explain options for and consequences of requesting a grade of Incomplete. 

Fulfill Program Admission Requirements

Admission to the DBA program is competitive and based on a combination of all requirements. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee admission to the program. 

You must submit a completed application along with all of your supplemental documentation by the appropriate application deadline to be considered for the prerequisite course. If you pass the prerequisite course with a grade of B or higher, you will be admitted to the program. 

Submit Application Materials 

You must submit the following materials to be considered for admission: 

UMGC online application for admission

Official transcript indicating successful completion of a master's degree or higher from a regionally accredited university or college (equivalent degrees from other accredited institutions may be considered on a case-by-case basis; if you were educated abroad, you may need to meet additional requirements )

• Up-to-date resume (outlining professional leadership and supervisory management experience)
• Contact information for two professional references, including name, job title, organization, email address, and phone number
• 700-word personal statement outlining your career goals, including how the DBA degree will fit into your future
• Optional writing sample: This can be an article or paper you have authored, thesis, blog post, or any published material

Please note: GMAT or GRE scores are not required for the application.

Complete Interview (If Necessary)

UMGC may require a phone interview to gather additional information from an applicant. The need for an interview will be determined by the details you include in your application materials, such as the resume or CV. We would request an interview to assess your appropriate leadership-level experience. The interview, if required, would take place at the end of the process, before you are authorized to enroll in the prerequisite course.

Send Your Documentation

If mailing your supplemental documentation by U.S. Postal Mail/UPS/FedEx/DHL, please use the following address:

UMGC Student Records  3501 University Blvd. East  Adelphi, MD 20783

You can e-mail your resume, personal statement, and writing samples to admissions@umgc.edu . Contact information for two professional references can be included at the bottom of your resume. If your previous institution needs to send transcripts electronically, please follow our guidance on submitting transcripts .

Monitor Application Deadlines

All materials are due by the doctoral program application deadline for the term. Documents sent by mail must be postmarked on or before the deadline for the term.

• Fall: September 1
• Winter: November 30
• Spring: March 15
• Summer: June 15

Space permitting, late applications may be considered. Decision letters regarding eligibility for the prerequisite course are emailed to the applicant 30 days after the application closing date.

Pass the Prerequisite Course

You must pass the prerequisite course, Foundations of Doctoral Studies (3 Credits, DBA 600), with a grade of B or higher to be admitted into the program. The course details are as follows: 

• 11-week course 
• Does not count toward the 48-credit total for the DBA program 
• Does not qualify for federal financial aid because it is a prerequisite course to the program 
• Does not include a residency 
• Consideration for enrollment in this course requires a completed application package by the designated deadline 
• Course cannot be waived 

Read Mandatory Residency Requirements

One residency is held each term and is mandatory for all students enrolled in the program. Residencies consist of two full days of instruction, which include instructor-led lectures, guest lectures, cohort discussions, presentations of class assignments, and more. Residencies provide an excellent forum for discussion, peer support, networking, and scholarship.

• Students enrolled in core courses (numbered 800–850):  The residencies are held in-person in Maryland.
• Students enrolled in dissertation courses (numbered 860–880):  The residencies are held online.
• Students enrolled in the prerequisite course (DBA 600):  There is no residency.

These residencies are scheduled on Fridays and Saturdays, usually in the fifth week of the term. On Fridays, the residency is held from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Saturdays, residency is held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Residency attendance is mandatory for the full two-day period each term. If a student is unable to attend residency for the full two days, they must defer enrollment until the next available term. Students are responsible for their own travel arrangements and residency expenses.

Residencies for upcoming terms will take place at our Dorsey Station location in Maryland on the following dates, with the exception of Winter 2025 , which will be held virtually:

• Spring 2024:  Friday, May 10 and Saturday, May 11, 2024
• Fall 2024:  Friday, November 1 and Saturday, November 2, 2024
• Winter 2025 (Virtual):  Friday, February 7 and Saturday, February 8, 2025
• Spring 2025:  Friday, May 9 and Saturday, May 10, 2025
• Fall 2025:  Friday, October 24 and Saturday, October 25, 2025

Brush Up on Your Previous Experience

To succeed in this online doctorate program, you are expected to have 

• Executive-level experience in a management or business field 
• Familiarity with scholarly writing and graduate-level writing skills 
• Motivation to do applied research 
• Intellectual curiosity to engage in scholarly discourse 

Review Prior Year Requirements

This information is for students who enroll in the 2024–2025 academic year. For prior year requirements for this program or to review UMGC's complete program requirements for a specific academic year, visit our program catalog archive .

Gain Valuable Knowledge & Grow Your Network

The online DBA degree program at UMGC is designed to help professionals acquire high-level knowledge and skills in management theory, strategic thinking, organizational leadership, research methods, and innovation. Through our challenging curriculum, you may be able to gain the knowledge you need to succeed as a leader in today's fast-paced business environments. Plus, collaborative, research-oriented projects will help you grow your network and build lasting relationships with a diverse group of professionals.

Our faculty members are experts in their fields and possess a wide range of professional experience. They're committed to helping you achieve the following learning goals:

Study in an IACBE-Accredited Online DBA Program

UMGC's School of Business has received specialized accreditation for its business programs through the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) located at 11960 Quivira Road in Overland Park, Kansas, USA. Please view our IACBE member status page  and Public Disclosure of Student Achievement .

IACBE's accreditation process examines if a program is functioning effectively, accomplishing its mission, and teaching students what they are intended to learn. This requires that its member institutions follow a process of continuous quality improvement that builds student competencies and prepares them to succeed professionally.

Make Real-World, Research-Based Decisions

Throughout the online DBA degree program at UMGC, you'll learn how to conduct and use evidence-based research to make data-informed management decisions in a variety of potential career applications. Your dissertation will include a review of a complex business-related issue or problem in the workforce.

Recent topics have included:

• Kuan H. Collins: "The Organizational Factors Influencing the Building of Collaborative Culture: An Examination of the Evidence"
• Sharon Denise Biddinger Crawford: "Indecisiveness in Teamwork: A Search for Interventions to Avoid Failure-to-Decide" 
• Joseph Allen Evans: "The Influence of National Culture on the Value Creating Ability of Organizations Combined from an International Merger and Acquisition"
• Calvin Joel Martin: "Creating and Implementing Dynamic Capabilities: An Exploration of the Senior Manager's Role"
• Margaret Walthall: "The Leader-Follower Relationship and Follower Performance"

Explore UMGC Insights

Gain insight from our experienced faculty and staff and delve deeper into complex topics, including the doctorate program, the MBA, accreditation, and leadership.

What Can you Do with a Doctorate, Business Administration?

Learn more about the value of a DBA.

What is the Best Accreditation for MBA Programs?

Learn about the importance of choosing an accredited MBA program.

How to Network as a Student

Learn about the importance of networking as a student and the multiple opportunities UMGC offers.

How to Become a Good Leader

UMGC’s MBA program graduates share their thoughts on leadership.

You might be interested in similar programs

Compare All Programs

Get answers to questions that others are asking about program admission, cost, outcomes, and more.

What is an online Doctor of Business Administration?

The online degree program is a doctorate designed for working professionals that can help prepare you for senior-level management positions. Featuring an interactive and supportive cohort structure, this 48-credit doctorate program covers topics like data analytics, management theory, organizational leadership, sustainability, and analysis of real-world management issues.

How long does it take to get a Doctor of Business Administration?

UMGC's online Doctor of Business Administration degree is a 48-credit program. Only the prerequisite course (DBA 600) is offered in the summer. The rest of the courses are offered each fall, winter, and spring. Depending on how many terms you register for each year, if you take a full-time course load, and when you complete your dissertation, you can expect to graduate in as little as three years.

How much does a Doctor of Business Administration cost?

UMGC is committed to keeping our tuition and fees as affordable as possible. The online Doctor of Business Administration follows the doctoral program tuition rate, which appears at the top of this webpage. We also offer scholarships  for eligible students, an interest-free monthly payment plan , and no-cost digital materials in place of most textbooks to help make your education more affordable.

What background do I need to get a Doctor of Business Administration?

You don't need to have majored in a specific area to be successful in this UMGC doctoral degree. You are expected to have supervisory management experience and demonstrated leadership ability. And you must meet significant program admission requirements before being admitted to the prerequisite course. Follow this step-by-step process to send in your doctoral application:

• Submit your application
• Complete an interview (if necessary)
• Send in your supplemental documentation 

Complete and pass (with a B or higher) a prerequisite course called Foundations of Doctoral Studies to be admitted to the program.

What is the difference between a PhD and a DBA?

A PhD is a discipline-oriented research degree with a narrow focus designed to train you for a role as a researcher or faculty member in a specific academic area. The DBA is for practitioners who will learn to acquire, appraise, analyze, apply, and assess information for complex decision-making in professional settings. The traditional career path for a PhD graduate is in the academic world, while the traditional career path for a DBA graduate is a management practitioner in specialties associated with a broad range of professions.

If you earn a DBA, you may be qualified to teach at the community college or university level. However, this program is not designed for students who aspire to obtain tenure-track positions at research universities.

Is UMGC accredited?

Yes. UMGC is regionally accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. In addition, UMGC is a public state university in the University System of Maryland .

In addition, the DBA program (as well as the MBA) is accredited by the IACBE.

How do students follow their cohort through the doctoral program?

Upon acceptance into the doctoral degree program, DBA students are expected to make progress through each course in a common group called a cohort. As they progress through the program together, they build helpful working relationships with one another and support one another’s development. Beyond their cohort, students in the doctoral program are also members of the broader practitioner-scholar learning community that includes other doctoral students, UMGC faculty, and doctoral alumni.

Are DBA courses offered in the summer?

Only the prerequisite course (DBA 600) is offered in the summer term. All other content courses and dissertation courses required for the Doctor of Business Administration are offered three times per year: fall, winter, and spring. Selected online summer workshops are offered periodically between July and September.

Where can I find previously published UMGC dissertations?

To find previously published doctoral research, visit the UMGC Library’s curated section for  doctoral students .

Can I take doctoral-level courses provisionally or without applying?

No. DBA courses are not available for enrollment until successful completion of the pre-admission course, Foundations of Doctoral Studies (3 Credits, DBA 600). This is the only doctoral-level course that can be taken prior to official admission to the doctoral program. A complete application for admission, including the documents outlined above in the Program Admission Requirements section, must be submitted by the application deadline in order to be considered for this course (application deadlines shown above).

Are UMGC library resources available to applicants and prospective students?

No. Applicants to the DBA program and prospective students do not have access to the UMGC Library. Please visit this guide to peer-reviewed articles and the UMGC Library guide for more information about finding scholarly articles.

Who do I contact for further information about the DBA program?

You may contact the Department of Business Administration in the School of Business at busadmindept@umgc.edu for additional information about the prerequisite course— Foundations of Doctoral Studies (3 Credits, DBA 600)—and the DBA program.

Our helpful admissions advisors can help you choose an academic program to fit your career goals, estimate your transfer credits, and develop a plan for your education costs that fits your budget. If you’re a current UMGC student, please visit the Help Center .

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Doctorate in Business Administration

Unlock limitless career possibilities with CIU’s online Doctorate in Business Administration program. Gain advanced decision-making skills, refine research and writing abilities, and position yourself for success.

Pursue the career you want, when you want, where you want with CIU’s online DBA.

The Doctorate of Business Administration Online program prepares graduates for advancement in their current employment or new business career opportunities. While learning the most advanced decision-making skills and techniques, doctorate candidates also develop and hone research and writing skills required for high- level responsibility in academic and business environments. 

Click here to view course curriculum and costs.

Career Outcomes:

Possible career avenues with a Doctorate of Business Administration from CIU.

Management Consultant

College Professor

C-Level Executive

Financial Manager

Health Services Manager

Who is ciu’s online doctorate in business administration (dba) program for.

Upon graduating from CIU with a DBA degree , individuals may be qualified to pursue executive positions and to manage large teams in the workplace, to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities to create their own businesses, or to work in an academic capacity as professors.

The Online Business Doctorate program encourages executives, college or university professors, and consultants to use their professional backgrounds to explore, design, and manage large systems in the complex organizations of increasingly multifaceted and multi-sectored economy.

Learning Outcomes for Our Online DBA Programs

Upon successful completion of this program, a Doctor of Business Administration will be able to:

• Demonstrate the use of effective communication to assess human resource business challenges and opportunities associated with the global economy, competition, change, and uncertainty. • Construct and optimize information related to human resources to produce competitive market analysis. • Utilize applied research methods and business strategies to maximize business growth and development opportunities. • Identify and analyze complex organizational concepts and explore alternative solutions to organizational and HR problems. • Apply critical thinking skills, ethical and legal perspectives, proven management theories and practices to analyze, evaluate, and decide on a wide range of human resource issues.

Online Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA-GEN) Course Curriculum:

The Doctorate of Business Administration degree requires completion of 60 semester credits of coursework which includes 30 credits of Business Core courses, 15 credits of Specialization Elective courses, a Comprehensive Competency Assessment, and 15 credits of Dissertation courses.

Click here to download the program PDF.

1. Business Core Courses: 30 Credits/10 Courses

• ECO 615 – Global Economy
• FIN 605 – Global Business Finance
• GRC 600 – Doctoral Academic Study and Writing
• GRC 605 – Business Research Methodology and Quantitative Statistics
• MGT 616 – Organizational Change and Development in Management System
• MGT 610 – Mastering Leadership: Theories and Concepts
• MGT 618 – International Business
• MGT 662 – Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
• MKT 640 – E-Commerce Models and Applications
• MKT 645 – Marketing Research in Consumer Behavior

2. Specialization Courses: 15 Credits/5 Courses

• Specialization Elective

3. Comprehensive Competency Assessment: 0 Credits/1 Course

• Comprehensive Competency Assessment 

4. Research Project or Doctorate Dissertation Courses: 15 Credits/5 Courses

A.  Research Project

• DRP 801 – Introduction to Doctoral Research Project
• DRP 802 – Doctoral Research Project Literature Support
• DRP 803 – Doctoral Research Project Research Methodology
• DRP 804 – Doctoral Research Project Results and Findings
• DRP 805 – Doctoral Research Project Conclusions and Recommendations

B. Graduate Level Research

• GRC 641 – Chapter 1 Dissertation Introduction
• GRC 642 – Chapter 2 Dissertation Literature Review
• GRC 643 – Chapter 3 Dissertation Methodology
• GRC 644 – Chapter 4 Dissertation Results and Findings
• GRC 645 – Chapter 5 Dissertation Conclusions and Recommendations/Dissertation Presentation and Oral Defense

Online DBA Degree Requirements

1) Masters Degree

2) Curriculum Vitae / Professional Resume

3) Application for Admission

Online DBA Degree Investment

Doctorate Degree Tuition Per Credit	$528
Total Cost Per Course Including E-Books	$1,779
	$36,675

With an Accredited Online DBA Degree, Your Effort Matters

California Intercontinental University is accredited by DEAC, the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. Our programs are accredited by ACBSP, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

Why accreditation matters:

Credibility

Rest assured your education meets industry qualifications.

Quality coursework

Accreditation means credits are valuable and transferable.

Financial Aid

Accredited programs are eligible for more financial aid options.

Earn a DBA Degree Online

You can earn a Doctorate Degree online while keeping up with work and family responsibilities. At CIU, students are able to take one course at a time, each spanning six weeks, to develop industry-specific skills and propel their careers forward. From anywhere in the world, at their own pace.

Flexibility + Structure

Flexible classroom schedule designed to work around your schedule. Access course modules from anywhere, anytime.

Career-Centric Education

Learn real-world skills and gain in-depth knowledge that can be directly applied to your career and your future. Don’t miss your shot on advancing in your career.

Unmatched Support System

Get to know our Student Success Advocates, A team of professionals in charge of guiding you every step of the way.

Start at CIU Now!

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Articles That May Interest You

PhD in Leadership vs DBA: Choosing the Right Path for Advanced Leadership Roles

DBA vs PhD: What’s the difference in Business Administration?

DBA vs MBA: Understanding the Differences

How To Get A Doctorate Degree Without A Dissertation

Frequently asked questions, is ciu accredited, and by whom.

Yes, California Intercontinental University (CIU) is accredited by DEAC and ACBSP, is a member institution of CHEA, and is approved by BPPE.

What support services are available for students?

CIU offers various support services, including a Writing Center, Math Lab, workshops, and access to an innovative AI technology called Pocket Confidant. Additionally, students benefit from the extensive online LIRN Library.

Are there networking opportunities for DBA students?

Yes, CIU’s DBA program is designed to create valuable connections that advance students’ career goals, fostering meaningful networking opportunities.

Can I access course materials and lectures from anywhere?

Absolutely, CIU’s 100% online programs provide flexibility for students to access course materials and lectures from anywhere at any time.

How can I apply for financial aid or scholarships?

CIU’s Financial Aid Department assists eligible applicants with FAFSA applications, directs them to scholarship programs, and provides information about financial aid packages.

What are the admission requirements for CIU's Online DBA program?

To enroll in CIU’s Online DBA program, applicants need a strong application reflecting academic and professional prowess. Requirements include 3-5 years of professional experience, a baccalaureate degree, and additional criteria for those without a graduate degree.

Can I transfer credits to the DBA program, and what is the process?

Yes, CIU’s Transfer Credit policy allows for evaluating transfer credits based on guidelines from the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE) and the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The process involves submitting documentation, including transcripts and course outlines.

How does a DBA differ from a PhD in Management?

A DBA focuses on applied research and practical knowledge, preparing graduates for high-level roles in business. In contrast, a PhD in Management emphasizes theoretical study and academia.

How do you choose a DBA program?

When selecting a DBA program, consider factors such as accreditation, flexibility, curriculum, and support services, ensuring it aligns with your career goals and learning preferences.

What jobs can you have with a DBA?

Graduates with a DBA can pursue various high-level positions, including C-Level Executive, Management Consultant, College Professor, Financial Manager, and Health Services Manager.

How do you choose a DBA specialization?

To choose a DBA specialization, consider your interests, career goals, and the specific focus areas offered by the program. Evaluate how each specialization aligns with your professional aspirations and skill development needs.

Does this program require a dissertation?

This is a doctorate program without a dissertation. Instead, it is designed to be finished with a Doctoral Research Project.

100% Online, Accredited, & On Your Schedule. Enroll Today! Class Starts Soon

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Online Doctoral Degree Doctor of Business Administration

Doctoral Dissertation

Doctoral students are required to complete a dissertation and defend their research before a committee and University representatives, which may take place at a distance through audio/visual means. No degree shall be awarded without majority of committee approval. Information regarding this capstone doctoral requirement is published in the Dissertation Handbook.

Graduates will successfully complete a minimum of 61 semester hours and dissertation research courses as outlined below.

Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography and degree field, affect career outcomes. CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.

Degree at a Glance

• Number of Credits  
• Maximum Transfer Credits  
• Tuition Per Credit *  
• Next Start Date  
• Start Anytime With LifePace Learning ® Start Today

Program Summary

Program description, learning outcomes.

Upon completion of the program, students should be able to do the following:

Student Achievement

Concentration

Concentration outcomes, ready to get started.

For more information regarding courses outside the recommended course of study, view the full course listing . ( * Indicates recommended course of study. )

Major Requirements

credit hours

Major Requirements – Group {{group}}

Course Number	Course Title	Credit Hours
	{{ CourseHours }}

Major Courses

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Concentration Courses

12 credit hours

To fulfill the General Concentration for this degree, student may choose any 5000-6000 level course not used to satisfy program requirements. Student can review all available courses at our full course listing. Students are strongly encouraged to speak to their academic advisor prior to choosing general concentration course options.

General Education

The following courses indicated by * are recommended to satisfy General Education Requirements .

{{subject}} — {{hours}} required hours

Course Number	Course Title	Credit Hours
	{{ CourseHours }}

To fulfill open electives, students may choose any course not used to satisfy program requirements, taking into consideration the degree program upper-level requirements. Students can review all available courses at our  full course listing. Students are strongly encouraged to speak to their academic advisor prior to choosing open elective options.

Program Electives

Program Electives

Dissertation Requirements

To satisfy the requirements of the Doctor of Business Administration, students must complete a minimum of 15 hours of dissertation/research hours. Doctor of Business Administration students should communicate regularly with their dissertation chair regarding the completion of these hours.

Tuition Rates

Our goal is to provide the strongest online academic programs at an affordable rate. On average, our tuition is less than half the cost of our competitors.

Compare tuition costs

Course Type	Tuition Rate Per Credit Hour
Undergraduate	$270
Graduate	$349
Doctoral	$545

* Rates are per credit hour. Most courses are three (3) credit hours. Tuition and fees are payable in U.S. funds. Tuition rates are subject to change. CSU’s tuition rate for associate, bachelor’s and master’s courses is $250 per credit hour for all active-duty military members using tuition assistance except those who are using a Learning Partner discount. The lower rate is offered to keep the tuition rate at the DoD cap of $250. † CSU Learning Partners receive a tuition discount that is applied to the full tuition rate.

Tuition reports include tuition and required fees per academic year for full time beginning students. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Affordability and Transparency Center, National Center for Education Statistics, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), Winter 2021-2022, Student Financial Aid component.

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Information on tuition and fees updated as of . Real time details available using the tuition or fees links above.

*Important notes:

• Costs shown may not include additional fees, expenses, and discounts that may be applicable for an individual student based on their specific enrollment.
• While the course costs shown are based on publicly available information as of , comparable courses may be comprised of different numbers of credit hours.
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• The cost calculator is merely a comparison of cost, not of graduate outcomes. Graduate outcomes may vary based on the student’s experience, the program, and other factors.
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Online Doctorate of Business Administration in Business Intelligence

Learn 100% Online Balance your current career with the ability to study from anywhere.

Enhance Your Expertise Make insightful business decisions informed by data and technology.

Student Spotlight: Stacey Morin

"The benefit of studying online is that you have a school-life balance. There is no commute time."

• Go to Section 
• Why Marymount
• Admissions Requirements

Prepare for what’s next with a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA)

Rapid technological advancements are transforming the business world. Marymount University’s online DBA in Business Intelligence expands your ability to navigate current and future challenges facing businesses, governments, and nonprofits in this “what’s next?” economy. 

Elevate your understanding and agility at the intersection of business, data, innovation, and technology. This online program can help you harness the power of technology and data insights so that you can make the high-level data-driven decisions needed to lead with advanced knowledge, vision, and clarity. 

Earning a DBA degree will position you as an agile leader who is at the forefront of an ever-changing economy—through actionable research that advances the field of business intelligence and its applications in the real world.  

Why Marymount?

Our interdisciplinary online DBA program is highly personalized, allowing you to conduct original applied research directly related to your career goals. There are no residencies required so you can advance your career, without putting it on hold, in our fully online and part-time format.

Marymount’s online DBA in Business Intelligence is:

• Cost-effective:  This part-time program costs $1,340 per credit hour, for a total program investment of $48,240.
• Accelerated:  With intakes in the fall and spring, it is possible to complete 36 credit hours needed to graduate in just under three years (8 terms). 
• Connected:  Build connections with diverse, accomplished, and supportive faculty based in the nation’s capital, home to the most educated workforce in the country.*

*Ranking America's Most Educated Cities, Bloomberg

What are the admissions requirements? 

Doctoral applicants must have an MBA (preferred), or a master’s degree in a business specialty field or IT (may require prerequisites), from a regionally accredited institution, with 3.5 GPA or higher. Professional experience of 5-10 years or more is required. No GRE/GMAT required.

A phone interview with an admissions advisor is required prior to applying. The following is a list of documents to be submitted after the completion of your online application.

• Official transcripts
• Current resume
• Writing sample
• Statement of research background and interest
• Virtual interview with faculty member

Compare a DBA to a PhD: Applied vs. Theoretical

A DBA and a PhD, also called terminal degrees, are the highest post-graduate degrees you can earn. As a rule, the DBA is considered a  professional doctorate  and the PhD is an  academic doctorate . Here are some commonly asked questions to help clarify the differences.

Those who choose to become a Doctor of Business Administration are typically working professionals with managerial experience who want to focus on  applied research  to solve real-world problems in business. Most PhD holders accept teaching positions as professors or researchers at universities after developing  theoretical research .

Learn More About The Differences Between a DBA and PhD

The DBA program applied research dissertation focuses on concrete, real-world organizational and business concerns. The research explores and solves practical problems with real-world applications. The PhD dissertation is focused on academic research methods to develop theories or identify gaps in theories deemed important by the academic community.

While both business administration programs are comprehensive and time-intensive, DBA programs are typically studied on a part-time basis to accommodate working professionals, while PhD programs are typically full-time.

DBA Curriculum Snapshot

For a complete list of courses and course descriptions, access your  comprehensive digital program guide .

This doctoral course assesses the implications of strategic management and leadership in a dynamic environment. Emphasis is placed on the development of action-based strategies for the purpose of creating competitive advantage. Students critically examine leading theories of organizational strategy, as well as the evolution of strategic management, enabling them to identify new perspectives applicable to their areas of interest. (3 credits)

Consistent with the ideal that leadership is not just an act but a way of being, this doctoral course will explore the ethical foundations that inform the leader’s personal and professional practices in today’s changing environment. Students examine ethical theories and concepts applied to leadership challenges in real-world situations, across business and government. Emphasis will be placed on understanding ethical leadership for social and organizational change, the leader’s role as a moral agent, and the organization’s role as a moral agent in society. (3 credits)

This doctoral course covers the effective management of digital transformation efforts taking place throughout government and business organizations to improve operations through the effective use of technology. Students develop a thorough understanding of how to intelligently manage the organizational transformation that occurs when all or parts of an enterprise “go digital.” Students develop strategies to best harness the strategic business value of digital technologies by examining the principles behind the design of business models for product and service delivery via digital platforms. (3 credits)

In this course, doctoral students will develop the documentation necessary for approval of their research topic and overall research plan. They will also obtain approval from their dissertation advisor and submit their dissertation proposal for approval by the Faculty Dissertation Committee. Students will evaluate which type of IRB submission is appropriate and prepare the material for its timely submission. Students will be guided in a thorough literature review on their chosen topic and develop a clear understanding of previous work in their field. (3 credits)

Next Application Deadline:

• November 29, 2024 Spring 2025

Next Start Date:

• January 6, 2025 Spring 2025

Is this program right for me?

If you want to leverage your professional experience to strengthen your understanding and application of data and technology—in business, academia, or the nonprofit community—the Marymount online DBA in Business Intelligence could be right for you. 

In this video, Online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Business Intelligence student Ihab Marcus discusses how the DBA professors' experience in industry adds a real depth to the instruction and also adds great diversity and dynamic element to the actual teaching itself. 

Hear From a Student

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Reach the Summit

In a job market saturated with MBA graduates, your doctoral degree will distinguish you as a professional who has reached the highest level of education in your field.

DBA in Business Intelligence Program Summary

Marymount University’s online DBA in Business Intelligence program prepares you for executive leadership positions and to be ready for “what’s next” in the ever-changing environment of business, government, and non-profit organizations. The DBA provides the real-world business intelligence tools you need to advance your career and prove your capabilities as a strategic, data-savvy business executive. As a student at Marymount, your ethical foundation will be expanded while you grow as a leader.

The program is strategically designed to develop your higher-order thinking and research skills. This will enable you to apply theory to practice, which will empower you to address today’s business challenges with knowledge, vision, and clarity that will lead to groundbreaking insights.  

An interdisciplinary education

Marymount’s College of Business, Innovation, Leadership, and Technology (BILT) enhances the synergistic benefits of these four disciplines and represents the foundation of the DBA in Business Intelligence.

Expert faculty

The Washington, D.C. region has the most educated workforce in the country, so you’ll learn from, and study with, this talented group of leaders.

Applied research

Unlike theoretical research, the DBA in Business Intelligence uses applied research to affect practical change in real-world business scenarios.

Concurrent dissertation model

Rather than having the research component of the degree addressed at the end of the program like most universities, the coursework and dissertation are integrated from the beginning.

FAQs About The Online DBA Program

A DBA or Doctor of Business Administration is a terminal degree that incorporates  theoretical coursework with applied research . Designed for those who have an MBA or business-related master’s degree, a DBA distinguishes you as an experienced professional who has reached the highest level of business education and practical expertise.

An online DBA in Business Intelligence integrates critical leadership skills, applied research, and data-driven strategy so you can thrive in an economy that relies on interdisciplinary collaboration  in roles such as :

• Entrepreneur
• Government Analyst

Marymount’s online DBA includes an applied dissertation aligned with your current interests or professional aspirations. You will take business, innovation, leadership and technology (BILT) coursework in parallel with research courses. Starting in the first semester, you will build, write, and complete your dissertation throughout your studies.

This part-time program is 100% online and requires 36 credit hours to graduate. It is possible to complete this degree within three years.

The online DBA in Business Intelligence program costs $1,340 per credit hour, for a total program investment of $48,240.

Washington, D.C. is home to the most educated workforce in the country. Build your network as you learn from our elite, talented community of professors who are connected to the real world. Marymount faculty are socially conscious, culturally diverse, and passionate about teaching.

Marymount’s DBA offers a unique focus on business intelligence that incorporates in-demand skills such as AI, business intelligence, digital transformation, and creative problem-solving. You will be equipped to make decisions  and lead in an ever-changing economy —so that you can address the challenges of today and the future.

Connect With Us

Complete the form to access our comprehensive program guide with more details about our:

• World-class faculty
• Application process
• Unique student support

An admissions advisor will be in touch to answer your questions and help determine if Marymount is right for you.

Latest Articles

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A business intelligence strategy is essential to capturing, analyzing and converting data into valuable insights. Experienced leaders can better use data to achieve business goals with the skills learned in a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program.

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By setting the parameters for data collecting and analysis according to a specific question or challenge, brands can increase their chances of gaining customer intelligence and actionable insights that address their specific situations.

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Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Theses/dissertations from 2024 2024.

A Time Series Geometric Term Structure Model: Indications for U.S. Treasury Yield Curve Interpretation and U.S. Federal Funds Target Rate Forecasting , Danny L. White

Theses/Dissertations from 2023 2023

Analyzing the Effect of Sponsorship Disclosure on Social Media Influencer Contribution to Engagement in the Test and Measurement Industry , Todd B. Baker

Moral Virtues: A Quantitative Study on the Impact of National Culture on Integrity , Andrew I. Ellestad

The Barriers to Active and Experiential Learning in Accounting Education , Elizabeth Holbrook

Phenomenological Study of African American Female Partners in Top U.S. Corporate Law Firms , Tony Kelly

Career Shock and Voluntary Turnover Intention among Current Employees in the Public Sector , Charlena Miller

Emotional Intelligence, Self-Efficacy, and the Perceived Employability of Traditional Undergraduate Business Students in a Private Midwest Educational Institution , Michele Ryan

Effect of Black- or White-Sounding Name and Impact of Intergroup Contact with Black Individuals on Auditor Judgments , Vanessa J. Tijerina

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Young Adults Who Save for Retirement: A Grounded Theory Study of the Decision-Making Process , Chad Greenwood

How do People Justify not Paying their Taxes? A Study on Moral Disengagement and Tax Evasion , Grace M. Hufff

Identity Work in Aspiring Big 4 Accounting Practice Leaders: Narratives of Personal Reinvention , Michael H. Kinnen

The Impact of Workplace Mentoring on Meaningful Work for People With Workplace Anxiety in the Insurance Industry , Susan L. Nelson

The Impact of Digital Marketing Tactics on the Recruitment of Domestic First-Generation College Students in the Southwest United States , Noelle Seybert

Exploring the Relationship Between Domestic Violence and Workplace Violence , Jared W. Snow

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Onboarding Autism Employees in Technology Industry , Heung-For Cheng

Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Practices on Brand Trust and Purchase Intention in the Wine Industry , Sarah L. Cooley

A New Model of Opportunity Recognition: Linking Individual Agency, Entrepreneurial Action, and the Innovation Process , Eva M. Fast

Financial Literacy and Behavior in Credit Unions: An Exploration of Member Financial Literacy and Financial Behavior in the Credit Union Model , Peter R. Fisher

Predicting the Financial Vulnerability of U.S. Public Charities: A Test of the Tuckman-Chang Model , Alesha L. Graves

The Strategic Response of Nonprofits to Institutional Pressures: An Intellectual Capital , Mario L. Hicks

Ethical Attitudes of Accounting Faculty and Public Accountants , James Karan

An Analysis of the Impact of an Influencer's Perceived Trustworthiness and Content Quality on Their Follower's Travel Intent , Josh C. McNair

Remote Working and Open Offices: A Phenomenological Study of the Factors Impacting Employee Productivity , Frank Murphy

Rural Coopetition: A Consumer Perspective of Marketing Activities Involving SMEs , Cassandra A. Ritzen

Consumer Behavior and Ad-Evoked Effects in Native Ads: The Role of Congruence and Brand Familiarity , Steven Rydin

The Influence of Type of Implicit EWOM on Purchase Intention , Michael H. Starr

U.S. Marine Veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq Wars Diagnosed with PTSD: Perceived Employment Barriers Faced by Marines with PTSD Upon Discharge , Marlon G. Ware

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

The Relationship Among Generational Cohorts, Tenure, Job Categories, and Employee Readiness for Organizational Change in a Healthcare Environment: A Quantitative Study , Jerry S. K. Adatsi

Electronic Health Records: Influencing Performance at Critical Access Hospitals , John Bennett

Millennial Students’ Awareness of Retirement Issues, Their Retirement Preparedness and Future Expectations , Krzysztof P. Bryniuk

Assessing the Impact of Transition from Rules-based to Principles-based Accounting in the Recognition of Revenue: A Study of Public Companies listed in the Russell 3000 Index that Elected the Full Retrospective Method of Accounting , Foday Y. Deen-Conteh

The Impact of Buyer Needs on Perceived Trade Show Effectiveness , RJ Fryan

Self-Determination Theory and Pharmaceutical Salespeople: Does Motivational Orientation of U.S.-Based Pharmaceutical Salespeople Influence Sales Performance? , Brandon Gilbert

A Cord of Three: A Phenomenological Study of Linkages in Interdenominational Interactions in Northwest Wyoming as Informed Through Network and Social Exchange Theories , Timothy N. Gray

Management Succession in a Two-Family-Owned Business: A Case Study , Dwight D. Ham

Factors Motivating Leaders to Volunteer: An Examination of Volunteer Leadership in Long-term Post-Acute Care , Christian Allen Mason

Happiness at Work: A Phenomenological Investigation of Clinic Managers , Jorge Melendez

Can Trait Emotional Intelligence Variables of Well-Being, Self-Control, Emotionality, and Sociability Individually or Collectively Predict a Software Development Engineer's Creativity? , Mwoyondishe Jonathan Mvududu

Job Satisfaction Among Faculty Members at CCCU Institutions , Heather C. Vaccaro

Sticker Price Elasticity as Predictor of Tuition Reset Success: A Quantitative Approach , Robert F. Van Cleef

A Narrative Analysis of Virtue Ethics Among Accounting Professors , Gibran N. Zogbi

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Leading Change: Examining the Relationships between Leadership Style, Organizational Culture and Change Readiness in Christian Universities of the State of Oregon , Dale Seipp Jr.

Doctorum Reciproco: Multi-Generational Professionals and Their Sentimentality Towards Reciprocity , Sal Villegas

Identifying City Attributes for Place Branding that Create Strong Self-Brand Connections , Matthew Vollrath

An Empirical Examination of Formal and Informal Institutional Factors’ Influence on Global Food Industry Sustainability Engagement , Kat Yamamoto

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Entrepreneurship Education’s Impact on Entrepreneurial Intention: A Predictive Regression Model of Chinese University Students , Brian A. Lavelle

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

The Link Between Job Satisfaction and the Intention to Leave Among Casino Employees , Oliver Wayne Aho

Exploring Factors that Help Students Feel More Connected to Their Online Instructors , Debra Austin

Scoping Job Enlargement with the Cultural Dimension of Individualism: An Industrial , Mark Wm. Cawman

Exceptionally Employable: A Study of the Value of Contrasting Educational Modalities within Christian Liberal Arts Universities in Preparing Students for Employment Suitability , Sam Heinrich

The Impact of CSR Efforts on Firm Performance in the Energy Sector , Robert Lloyd

Public Company Health Insurers and Medical Loss Ratios: An Event Study of Dates Associated with the Affordable Care Act , Rachelle Quinn

Self-Determination and Human Resource Retention: Employee and Volunteer Motivation to Stay in Rural Oregon Nonprofit Organizations , Nicole Richman

Understanding Business Education: Examining the Effect of the Application of Strategic Learning Among Diverse Business Disciplines , Dan Thoman

Pre-Certification Interprofessional Education: Ideal vs. Reality Patient Safety Curriculum , Edward E. Ward

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

Marketing Channel Attitudes of Chinese Business-to-Business Companies: An Empirical Buyer Behavior Study for U.S. Companies Marketing to Chinese B2B Customers , Jonathan Cooley

Corporate Social Responsibility: Sexual Exploitation of Children in the Costa Rican Hotel Tourist Industry , Michelle Flynn Osborne

A Phenomenological Investigation of Factors Leading to Success in Diverting Non-Urgent Emergency Department Use at a Rural Critical Access Hospital Using the Patient Centered Medical Home Model , Paul Gratton

An Investigation of the Trends in Pricing for Christian Higher Education and Its Relationship to Perceived Quality , Richard Holaway

Understanding the Process Small Businesses Use to Capture, Convert, and Integrate Survival Knowledge , Frank Marshall

Encouraging Ethical Behavior in the Workplace by Way of the Classroom: Examining the Use of Social Media in Marketing Ethics Instruction to Influence Millennials‘ Perception of Workplace Ethics , Traci Thomas Pierce

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

The Lived Experience of College Choice , Ryan Ladner

The Management of a Turnaround after an Ethical Breach in a Public Institution of Higher Education , Ashley Stark

Nontraditional Students in Management and Accounting Programs: Investigating the Relationship between Personality and Major Satisfaction in the Community College Setting , Brad Ward

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Empirical Study on the Relationship between Ethical Leadership and Organizational Climate of Innovation , Virlena Crosley

Undergraduate Education Background and Ethical Decision Making , Ian H. King

Understanding Consumers' Thoughts and Feelings about Financial Literacy and How Financial Literacy Affects Their Lives Using the Zaltman Metaphor Elicitation Technique (ZMET) , Belle Marie

Dissertations from 2013 2013

An Exploratory Study of the Role of Values in Microeconomic Decision-Making and the Implications for Organizations and Leaders , Holly A. Bell

Later Life Career Transitions: Exploration of Factors and Turning Points that Influence Career Transitions in Later Life , Estle Harlan

The Role of Creativity in the Ethical Orientation of Oregon CPAs , John D. Porter

Dissertations from 2012 2012

Exploring the background and motivations of social entrepreneurs , Timothy A. Lucas

Dissertations from 2011 2011

Organizational culture and brand : A grounded theory assessment of employees' enablement to live the brand at a best place to work , Tyler Laird Magee

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Home > Robinson College of Business > Robinson College of Business Executive Programs > Business Administration > BUS_ADMIN_DISS

Business Administration Dissertations

Dissertations from 2024 2024.

The Relationship Between Race, Gender, and Age Diversity in the C-Suite and Firm Performance , Paquel H. Austin

How Corporate Social Responsibility and Leadership Style Motivate Employees to Go Above and Beyond , Dominique Bergere

Diversity In Clinical Trials: The Case of Drug Development for Rare Diseases , Allison Bowen

Exploring the Impact of Transformational Leadership on Job Turnover Intention: A Study of Plant Operations , Christopher Bernard Edwards

The Role of Distributed Trust in the Design and Diffusion of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs): An Institutional Trust Perspective , Prince Egyir Biney

The influence of founder age in early-stage new venture funding: A configuration perspective , Michael A. Hakimian

Framing Central Bank Digital Currency: Design and Diffusion for Cross-Border Payments , Andrew C. Haskell

Public Health Practitioners’ Adoption of Artificial Intelligence: The Role of Health Equity Perceptions and Technology Readiness , Angela Hernandez

Linked Decisions: A Data Standard for Distributed Decision Support Systems , Jaroslav Klc

Tour Product Development: Reasons And Methods Tour Operators Use To Incorporate Secondary Destinations In Tour Itineraries , Fanny Lawren

Twitter Sentiments and Stock Prices: An Event Study on the Role of Influencers , Denys Wincel Lu

Exploring the Impact of Leadership styles on Work Force Dynamics in the Healthcare Industry , Derek Marbell

Authentic Leadership Between Control and Drift: An Investigation of African Americans Executives in Nonprofit Organizations , Ronald McNeill

Entrepreneurial Success: Exploring the Interplay of Personality Traits and Co-Founder Team Dynamics , Sudhir Mehta

Implementation of A Mandated Technology in A Highly Distributed Organization: A Case Study , Teresa Janel M. Paulk

Navigating New Frontiers: An Integrated Approach to Managing and Leading Remote and Hybrid Employees , Lorry Rome Perkins

Determinants of Generative Artificial Intelligence Large Language Model Exploration Intent for Software Development , Nicole A. Pirone

Outsourcing Auxiliary Services in Higher Education: An Integrated Risk Management Model , Alfonso Quinones

Examining the Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Patient Experience Rating and Recommendation: A Longitudinal Study , Emoy Reid

The Impact of Technology-Driven Supply Chain Systems on Market Penetration of SMES In Developing Economies: A Study of Nigerian SMES , Olawale Temowo

Purpose-Led Performance: The Strategic Role of Consumer-Centricity in Brand Activism , Brenda R. Turner

Dissertations from 2023 2023

Smart Technology Adoption’s Impact on the Value of Logistics Service Providers’ Firms , Raziel Bravo

Unintended Consequences of Organizational Error Culture: Does the Strive for Perfection Cause Employees to Put on a Façade and Consider Leaving? , Scott Crumpton

Vanishing Without a Trace: Measuring Job Applicant Ghosting Attitudes Across the Stages of Job Pursuit , Christine Davis

Leader Emotional Exhaustion: The Moderating Role of Leadership Style , James Davis

Path Constitution in Family Business Succession: Evidence from A Longitudinal Case Study , Toney L. Duckworth-Chambless

Organizational Resilience: An Exploratory Study on Eldercare and Support Responses to COVID-19 , Darren G. Franklin

The Power of Reflection: Understanding The Impacts Made Upon Employees Who Have Managers Who Reflect On Their Professional Development , Ryan Heath Jordan

An Empirical Study on the Influence of ICT-Based Tools on Team Effectiveness in Virtual Software Teams Operating Remotely During the COVID-19 Lockdown , Uday Kumar Kanike

The Role of Spirituality for Successful Established Women Entrepreneurs , Valaurie Bridges Lee

Increasing the Awareness of Black Women to Promote Medical Research Engagement , Stephanie M. Malone

The Impact of Social Media Sentiment on Market Share for Higher Education Institutions , Brandi Nicole Newkirk

How Safety Leadership Styles Impact Employee Safety Behaviors , Michelle McRae Payne

Dissertations from 2022 2022

The Impact of the Financial System and its Channels on SMES' Access to Financing: A Nigerian Perspective , Akinwande Ademosu

Sense of Place and Customer Experience: Cast Study in the State of Alaska , Maryam Al Ali

Healthcare Innovation Absenteeism: The Rise of Physician Entrepreneurs & Medical Startups , Charleata Battle

The Impact of Personality Traits and Emotional Intelligence on Emergent Leadership , Shinika Byrd

How Does the Infrastructure and Support of Two Progressive Startup Communities Compare for African American Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses? A Comparative Study of Atlanta, Georgia and Charlotte, North Carolina , Leroy Carson Jr.

The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Esports Viewership Trends , James P. Crone

The Impact of Values Congruence on Sales Personnel Performance and Retention: A Person-Organization Fit Analysis , Jason Duke

Using Consumer-Generated Social Media Posts to Improve Forecasts of Television Premiere Viewership: Extending Diffusion of Innovation Theory , Robert Casey Goodman

Sustainable Investing: Navigating the Inefficiencies of an Inefficient Market , Dale Herndon

Entrepreneurship in Rural Areas: Examining the Influence of Postsecondary Education , Cathy Hill

Reestablishing Organizational Stability Through Leading Resilience: Avoiding the Maelstrom of Personal Distress Caused by an Organizational Disruption , Wallace Andrew Huey Jr

Management Perceptions of the Value of Artificial Intelligence in Drug Discovery and Development , Scott P. Murray

Innovative Investment and Trade in Sub-Saharan Africa: Opportunities and Barriers for State Governments in a Disruptive Global Environment , Nkiruka Catherine Ohaegbu

Assessing B2G Customer/Contractor Relationships Using Social Exchange Theory During the Search and Selection Stage , Mitchell Lee Reed

The Concept of Digital Twins and its Impact on Organizational Performance , Deepa Vivekanandan

Transforming Leader Selection in the U.S. Army--the Battalion Command Assessment Program , Joseph Williams

Dissertations from 2021 2021

The ESG Behaviors of Multinational Enterprises: An Exploration of Emerging and Developed Market Norms , Julie A. Anderson

Balancing Focal and Client Firm Employee Identification and Acculturation Tensions: A Case Study Approach at a BPO Firm , Jonna B. Blount

Technology Usage to Manage Client Growth: Understanding Robo-Advisor Adoption Among Registered Investment Firms , Kevin Chalk

Consumer Preferences Towards Book Formats: How to Address Technological Disruption in the Publishing Industry , Gustavo Cotrino

An Examination of the Role of vCISO in SMBs: An Information Security Governance Exploration , William Dicker

Phenomenological Assessment of Integrative Medicine Decision-making and the Utility of Predictive and Prescriptive Analytics Tools , Osie Gaines

Industry 4.0 Technology: A Cross-Industry View of Adoption, Usage and COVID-19 Effects , Dawn Gregory

Do Age and On-screen Reading vs. On-paper Reading Affect Reader’s Trust and Risk in Reading Financial Content? , John Harrison

Social Entrepreneurship Within A Capitalist Economy , Audria King

The Impact of Deliberation Time on Ethical Decision Quality: A Study of Early-Career Professional Accountants , Ricki Livingston

Time-Varying Style Rotation by Small-Cap Mutual Fund Managers: Incentives and Implications , Peter McGaffigan

Reconciling External Clinical Data: Providers’ Friend Or Foe? , Mindy Oberg

Growing The Pie: How Supplier Diversity Can Enable Minority Businesses to Create Stakeholder Value , Ashok Kasi Vairavan

Analyzing the Budget and Strategic Plan Relationship: A Case Study Approach , Tina Wilson

Dissertations from 2020 2020

What Community and Organizational Factors Affect Care and Financial Performance of U.S. Hospitals? , Esther Chance

Identity Work in Career Transition: Lessons for Human Resources Development in the Verification of Identity in Career Transition , Jennifer Crenshaw

Organizational Innovativeness Among Employees in an IT Operations Organization: A Self-Determination Theory Perspective , Darrell D. Crull

An Analysis of Generational Differences in the Selection and Pursuit of Professional Certification , Dania El-Eter

Does Board Connectedness Contribute to Firms Performance During A Financial Crisis? , Rajendra Prasad Gangavarapu

Leadership Style and Organizational Structure Alignment: Impact on Innovativeness and Business Performance , Charles Ifedi

Don’t Be Left out in the Cold: An Examination of Organizational Innovativeness and Its Influence on the Capacity to Innovate in Cold Chain Third Party Logistics Firms , Anna Johnson

Dynamic Capabilities in Microfinance Innovation: A Case Study of The Grameen Foundation , Sarah Kayongo

Digital Innovation towards a Service-Dominant Business: A Clinical Inquiry into Georgia Pacific's Connected Restroom Initiative , Jung Hwan Kim

An Exploratory Study of The Factors Affecting Hospital Performance: Safety, Clinic Care, Patient Experience, Efficiency and Cost , Shevon Lewis

Factors Affecting the Financial Performance of US Children’s Hospitals: An Exploratory Study , Jimmy Mahgoub

Role of Social Capital in Crowd Funding Campaigns: Exploring Factors That Fuel Success in Crowd Funding Campaigns , Babu V. Manikandan

Reinvigorating Maneuver Warfare: An Organizational Learning Analysis of A Failed Strategic Initiative , Bryan P. McCoy

The Role of Collaborative Governance in Blockchain-Enabled Supply Chains: A Proposed Framework , Denise McCurdy

A Phenomenological Analysis of Information Security Reporting: A Paradoxical Perspective , Robin L. Moore

The Future of the AICPA Peer Review Program: The Impact of Age , Henry Okwuchukwu Onwumbiko

Influence Of Developer Sentiment And Stack Overflow Developers On Open Source Project Success: An Empirical Examination , Johnson Rajakumar

Factors Influencing Surgeon Adoption of Technology in the Medical Device Industry , Sean Reynolds

Career Transitions in the Digital Age: Mastering the Art of Communicating Career Direction Clarity , Daphne J. Schechter

Sustainable Organization of a Lean Six Sigma Program: A Competing Values Perspective , Marilyn J. Tom

Dissertations from 2019 2019

Enterprise Implementations: The Impact of Systems Implementations Using Professional Services Consultants vs. Internal Resources and the Downstream Impact Post Implementations , Yves Belmont

Hybrid Entrepreneurs’ Intention to Transition to Full Entrepreneurship: A Career Approach , Simoon Cannon

The Changing Economics of Attaining Post-Secondary Education in the U.S.: An Analysis by Stakeholder: Employer, Student, and Government , Sheila Cappel

Partnering People with Deep Learning Systems: Human Cognitive Effects of Explanations , Sean Dougherty

Real-Time Push Mobile Marketing Strategy: To What Extent Do Time and Relevance Matter? , Alvin Glay

Corporate Sustainability: The Impact of Corporate Leadership Gender On Year-Over-Year Performance , Jennoa R. Graham

Job Aid or Job Slayed? The Perceived Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Medical and Legal Work , Jessica Louise Helsten

Organizational Learning Through Disruptive Digital Innovation. A Blockchain Implementation , Veneetia Johnson

Drivers of Success to Effective Entrepreneurship: A Comparison of Immigrant and Native-born Perceptions , Irina Kozlovski

Improving the Employee Transition Experience: A Practical Business Application for Design Thinking , Aleta W. Richards

A Study of Permanent Residency Intentions and Behaviors by Highly Skilled Temporary Chinese Migrants in the United States , Chloe Shay

Healthcare Group Purchasing Organizations: Who’s Really Saving? An Empirical Investigation of Hospital Characteristics That Influence Supply Expense for Healthcare GPO Members , Kenneth Stinson

Does Market Visioning Competence Mediate or Moderate the Relationship Between Entrepreneurial Orientation and Product Innovativeness? , John Stowell

Digital Member Network Implementation and Coproduction: An Investigation of an Alumni Association Network , Derrick Warren

Dissertations from 2018 2018

Microfinance Performance: The Dynamics Between Performance and Funding Sources Across Microfinance Institution Legal Charters and Age Groups , Anthony Annan

Why do Low R2 Hedge Funds have Low R2? An Empirical Study of the Performance and Risk of Low R2 Funds , Arnab Banerjee

Organizational Readiness for the disruptive technology of autonomous commercial vehicles (ACV): What is the readiness of the trucking carriers? , Melvin Dukes

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Should I Pursue a Doctor of Business Administration?

• Academics  

Stand apart from your peers with a Doctor of Business Administration degree

For many business professionals, a master of business administration , or MBA, is the end of their post-graduate work—the completion of years of academic rigor and practical experience. But what about a doctor of business administration (DBA)?

DBAs are increasingly becoming more valuable for mid-career professionals. Rather than taking a broad range of business courses—a typical approach in an MBA program—those who complete a DBA program often focus on one specialty area.

Sacred Heart University offers a three-year, low-residency Doctor of Business Administration in finance for those who want to learn deep theoretical knowledge and quickly translate it into real-world applications. In this pioneering program, participants enhance their decision-making, leadership and management skills by solving practical finance problems through rigorous research and theoretical approaches—even as they continue to work a full-time job.

Lucjan Orlowski , director of SHU’s DBA in finance program, says a DBA can be, at times, a more valuable degree than an MBA in today’s competitive business environment.

“Our DBA program equips students with sophisticated research skills and more advanced training and knowledge that is increasingly expected from top-level business executives and academics,” Orlowski said. “It is certainly worth getting a DBA as an extension of a previously earned MBA. In fact, many of our DBA graduates with previous MBA degrees have considerably advanced their professional careers.”

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Discover the benefits of earning your degree from Sacred Heart University.

How can a DBA advance your career?

Sacred Heart’s DBA program coursework focuses on quantitative methods and mathematical modeling that informs real-world decisions about global financial markets and institutions, as well as advanced risk management.

“Employers commonly select DBA over MBA graduates in today’s competitive business environment,” Orlowski said. “An MBA is considered a ‘generic’ graduate degree, while a DBA is a more specific, specialized degree that enables students to master the subject and real-world application.”

Is it worth getting a DBA rather than an MBA?

An MBA can increase job opportunities and marketability, but a DBA is a specialized degree that provides professionals with targeted knowledge and research skills that they can quickly apply to their real-world needs and challenges.

“(The program’s) innovative coursework contains advanced, rigorous material that lays the groundwork for high professional achievement,” Orlowski said. “It equips students with cutting-edge skills that help them achieve a promotion to executive leadership, develop reputable consulting or transition to academia.”

What sets SHU’s DBA program apart?

SHU’s DBA in finance allows students to gain research skills for complex financial projects, acquire a global perspective on financial markets and institutions, participate in hands-on learning laboratories, learn from faculty with prestigious scholarship and professional experience and develop and appreciate the high ethical standards and values that are integral for finance professionals.

A mark of distinction is accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The DBA program is part of SHU’s Jack Welch College of Business & Technology, one of fewer than 5% of elite business schools worldwide accredited by the international association. “Our program has earned a high reputation as attested by the AACSB accreditation. Our courses contain advanced research material that includes seminal studies and other high-quality publications in finance, accounting and economics,” Orlowski said.

Graduates of the DBA in finance program have attained leadership opportunities at academic institutions and in financial, quantitative analysis and risk management roles. They’ve also achieved positions in investing, consulting, regulatory compliance and government.

About half of the program’s graduates have pursued high-level executive careers at leading financial institutions and consulting agencies, including JP Morgan Chase, Wells Fargo, UBS, KPMG, Arena Investors and Nomura Securities.

Other DBA graduates have pursued academic opportunities, including administrative and teaching posts at Villanova University, Harvard Extension School, St. John’s University, Fairfield University, Central Connecticut State University, Trinity University and others. Two alumni were recently appointed as deans of business schools at Endicott College and La Salle University.

Relevant coursework and peer support

The DBA program is cohort-based, so students learn from SHU’s accomplished doctoral faculty and each other, through interaction and shared experiences.

“Our courses address most current, relevant topics in applied research, including analyses of various risks faced by business organizations, the benefits and challenges of artificial intelligence, the prevalent trends in global financial markets, and repercussions of regulatory initiatives,” Orlowski said. “As part of our curriculum, students participate in specialized doctoral seminars that feature prominent guest speakers from global financial institutions, central banks, government agencies and research centers.”

Notable research

Doctoral dissertations of the program’s graduates are published in the SHU DBA Dissertations Series . To date, these dissertations have received more than 14,000 citations globally, including from reputable scholarly journals.

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Whether you're thinking about pursuing an advanced degree in education or are already in such a program, one thing you will need to be prepared for...

Writing a winning thesis or dissertation: guidance for an education graduate student.

Posted on July 31, 2024 on Graduate School , Seahawk Nation

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Whether you’re thinking about pursuing an advanced degree in education or are already in such a program, one thing you will need to be prepared for is writing a thesis or dissertation. In most graduate-level education programs, a thesis or dissertation is the culmination of years of challenging work, serving as your own independent research that marks the final step before earning your graduate degree.

If writing a dissertation or thesis sounds like a daunting task, it does not have to be. With a little preparation and some best practices in mind, you can approach writing a thesis or dissertation with confidence.

Understanding the Thesis and Dissertation Process

Before writing a thesis or dissertation, it’s important to understand their general scope and purpose, along with some key differences between a thesis and a dissertation. After all, while there are some similarities between the two, a dissertation and a thesis are not the same thing.

Defining the Scope and Purpose

The primary purpose of a thesis or dissertation in an education graduate program is for students to demonstrate what they have learned in their respective programs while applying their own research, theory, analysis and synthesis. Ultimately, the author of a thesis or dissertation should successfully contribute something new to the existing topic. In dissertations specifically, students may also be required to articulate, discuss and defend their research orally in front of professors or other faculty members. This oral defense is not required for a master’s thesis.

Differences Between Thesis and Dissertation

When it comes to writing a thesis or a dissertation, the terms “dissertation” and “thesis” are sometimes used interchangeably. That said, it is crucial to understand that these are two different things. Generally, a dissertation is primarily focused on filling a gap in existing literature or extending upon current research regarding a specific topic. The goal is to analyze literature to the point of saturation and determine where there is a need for further research. In a dissertation, a doctoral student will then explain where the problem exists given current research and develop a research study to explore or evaluate the problem, thus filling the gap and contributing meaningfully to the field.

On the other hand, a thesis is more of a presentation of information that’s already out there with no obligation to conduct additional research.

Choosing the Right Topic

One of the most important aspects of drafting a great thesis or dissertation begins with choosing the right topic. Here, it is paramount to select a topic that not only interests you but is relevant to your future professional goals and aspirations. After all, there’s a good chance you may use your thesis or dissertation as a basis for future work or further research.

Considering Current Research Trends

In selecting a topic, you will also want to consider current research trends in your field. What is trending in the realm of education and what could you contribute to existing research? There are research gaps or questions that remain unanswered about certain educational topics that could be addressed through your research.

Research and Proposal Development

In most graduate programs, you will need to write and present a research proposal before you can really get started on your thesis or dissertation. Most research proposals are reviewed and approved by a professor or other faculty.

Conducting a Literature Review

A literature review is to discover the research available on your research topic. This review should detail each source you plan to use in your own research with plenty of detail. More specifically, a literature review is a comprehensive summary of the current literature on a given topic that demonstrates the need for additional research to be conducted. Literature reviews comprise a major portion of a proposal, including a summary of each source as it relates to the need for additional research.

Finding Reliable Sources

Quality is vital when it comes to selecting literature for your research or literature review. Ideally, your literature review should include plenty of recent and reputable sources that come from academic journals, books, articles and even other dissertations.

Developing a Research Proposal

Once you have a better understanding for what is already out there, you can craft a research proposal that discusses your specific research topic, the current problem, the purpose behind your research, the methodology you plan to use and the relevant literature that further defends a need for your topic to be investigated.

Methodology Selection

An important part of your research proposal will be your methodology selection, which will explain exactly how you plan to go about your research. For example, will your research be qualitative, quantitative or a mix of both and why? How will the methodology you choose answer your research questions?

Writing and Structuring Your Thesis or Dissertation

After your research proposal is approved, you will have the green light to begin working on your thesis or dissertation. You will receive feedback or thesis guidance from the faculty member who reviewed your proposal. It is important to reflect on the feedback and make revisions as needed.

Creating an Outline

One of the most helpful things you can do as you get started with your dissertation or thesis is to create an outline. This allows you to develop the most critical aspects of your final project that include your thesis, your main points and other key details to ensure that they flow logically.

For reference, an outline for a dissertation will typically include the following:

• Introduction of existing research
• Review of literature
• Conceptual framework
• Methodology
• Results or findings
• Interpretations, conclusions or recommendations for future research

Structuring Arguments

In creating an outline, include designated sections for each of your main points with specific research, statistics, or other data to support it. This will ensure that your arguments are made clearly and that your thought process is clear.

Writing Tips and Strategies

Even if writing is not necessarily your strong suit, you will need to be able to put together a cohesive document for your thesis or dissertation. There are some basic strategies worth keeping in mind to help you get started.

First, it can be helpful to write your introduction and conclusion paragraphs last once you have completed all your research. While it might seem counterintuitive to do it this way, it can help set the tone for the rest of your writing. Likewise, this strategy ensures that you include your main points while preparing your readers for the information to come.

Additionally, meet with your advisor or faculty sponsor regularly to gain valuable feedback and keep your project on track.

Data Collection and Analysis

Whether you are writing a thesis or dissertation, you will need to do a fair amount of your own qualitative or quantitative research. It’s important to understand the various data collection methods available to you, plus the best practices for analyzing and interpreting data.

Choosing Data Collection Methods

There are two main types of data collection:

• Quantitative data  - Refers to hard data that is numerical in nature, such as statistics and percentages.
• Qualitative data  - Refers to information that is non-numerical, such as interviews and focus groups.
• Mixed methods – Refer to a combination of both quantitative and qualitative data.

Analyzing and Interpreting Data

Once you have all the data you need to write your thesis or dissertation, the challenging part is often analyzing and interpreting the data to apply to your own research. The most important thing to keep in mind when looking at hard data is how it relates back to your research and specific research questions.

When working with quantitative data, it can also be helpful to look for specific trends and correlations that you can share in your research.

Reviewing and Editing Your Work

Once you have completed the first draft of your thesis or dissertation, the process of reviewing, revising and editing your work before submission is important to ensure that the document is free of errors and that it effectively communicates your main points to the reader.

Peer Review and Feedback

One of the best ways to improve upon the first draft of your dissertation or thesis is through peer review and feedback. By having others read your draft and provide feedback, you can gain some valuable insights into how your arguments are being interpreted. Even if the person you ask to read your draft is not familiar with the subject matter, they can still provide useful feedback on the organization of the information, structure and grammar/spelling.

Proofreading and Final Edits

It may take several rounds of revisions before your dissertation or thesis is approved. Even when you feel like the entire thing is ready to submit, it is important to complete another round of proofreading and editing to be sure that the entire document is polished and in the best shape possible. This includes not just running a basic spell check but taking the time to read your paper word for word.

Formatting Guidelines

In most education programs, you will be instructed to use the  American Psychological Association (APA) style when writing and formatting your thesis or dissertation. It is important to follow all formatting guidelines here, especially as they relate to citations or references.

Preparing for the Defense

In many doctorate programs and some graduate programs, students will also be expected to defend their dissertations in front of other scholars, usually professors or other faculty from the department. This process can be daunting, even for those who know their research well and have crafted thoughtful dissertations.

Crafting Your Presentation

In preparing for a dissertation defense, it is imperative to craft a presentation that covers the basics of your dissertation topic, how you researched it and what your findings were. Following your presentation, you can expect to be asked questions by those in attendance about your topic and other aspects of your research.

Practicing Your Defense

The best way to prepare for a dissertation defense is to practice as much as possible. This way, you will be prepared for the kinds of questions that may be asked, and you will feel a little more confident when completing your defense.

Mock Sessions

Mock defense sessions can be especially helpful for practicing your presentation and answering questions from a real crowd. Do not hesitate to ask your fellow students or even some trusted professors to practice with you to provide feedback or ask questions.

Handling Questions

One of the most difficult aspects of defending a dissertation is often answering questions from the audience. One important tip to keep in mind here is to prepare some answers in advance to some of the questions you think might be asked during your dissertation defense. This way, you will be completely prepared to knock these out of the park.

Ready to Pursue an Advanced Degree?

As you can see, there is a lot that goes into writing a dissertation or thesis as part of your graduate education program. With this dissertation guidance in mind, you will be prepared to craft and even defend your thesis or dissertation with success.

Still looking for the right graduate education program to suit your interests and professional goals? Keiser University is proud to offer a number of advanced degrees in education, including our  Master of Science in Education, Teaching and Learning  program. If you’re interested in earning your doctorate degree, we also offer a  Doctor of Education  and a  Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership .

Learn more about any of the graduate programs offered at Keiser University by  contacting a graduate admissions counselor today, or get started with your online application  for enrollment.

Jessica Kircher