phd business administration concordia

Admission Requirements

* We make every attempt to provide accurate information on prerequisites, programs, and tuition. However, this information is subject to change without notice and we highly recommend that you contact the school to confirm important information before applying.

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Academic Catalog Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration

Academic catalog, doctor of philosophy (phd) in business administration.

The Doctorate of Philosophy in Business Administration (PhD) program will prepare learners for the rigors of a career in academia, consulting, and scholarship.  The curriculum is infused with a Christian ethical framework and requires students to utilize research to advance theories and solve complex organizational business problems. Our graduates will perform high-quality, interdisciplinary business quantitative and qualitative research using innovative and emerging research methods to build a research agenda at an advanced level.

• Compose ethical, Christian business solutions to complex organizational problems.
• Advance theories which create new knowledge in the field of business.
• Lead emerging and innovative qualitative and quantitative research projects related to business.
• Build a research agenda as to conduct independent research at an advanced level.

To be admitted into the PhD program, applicants must:

• Submit an application at cuw.edu/apply.

• Submit official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate coursework.

• Submit a resume or CV,

• Submit an academic paper or other relevant professional writing samples (can be from a master’s program)

• Participate in a video-conference or phone interview

• No GMAT or GRE required

• Have earned a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in all master’s coursework.

• Applicants for whom English is a second language must provide evidence of English proficiency

Course options and schedule are subject to change.

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Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA)

An Innovative Doctorate in Business Administration

Study Format

Program length.

• 60 Credit Hours

Application Deadlines

Domestic students.

Summer 2024 Application Due | Classes Start May 6,2024

International Students

Summer 2024 Completed File Due | Classes Start May 6, 2024

The Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) is designed to meet the demand for doctoral business education that is the next step in individual professional development. The program, one of the top DBA programs in Chicago, provides a further tier of leadership and management preparation beyond the master’s level. The DBA creates an opportunity for students and faculty to further cultivate the global perspectives, knowledge, and networks already established through the College’s expanding global presence. The curriculum, residencies, specializations, and the Mentor interface are innovative by design and delivery. A unique feature of Concordia-Chicago's DBA program is that the dissertation process begins immediately with students choosing a preliminary topic at the beginning of their program of study. 

The Concordia-Chicago Doctorate in Business Administration has been designed for professionals who seek professional enrichment and want to focus on real-life business challenges while developing application-oriented research. Seasoned business professionals know that they must blend research with their management practice. They must know how to assess current global trends in business, leadership, and management that affect their organizations. The DBA program is committed to scholarly business research, and qualified candidates will have research interests that align with one of the two specializations offered. Those who earn a DBA degree will be prepared to advance in their profession and to use their research expertise to positively impact organizational goals.

Two DBA specializations are offered, Innovation in Health Care Management and  Strategic   Leadership and Innovation . Please view the curriculum below for program and specialization information.

Program Outcomes

The program prepares graduates to:

• Critically examine the literature of business, leadership, and applied research
• Undertake independent, ethical, innovative, and rigorous business research
• Synthesize global trends, business knowledge, and leadership theory to advance both theory and practice
• Design and implement innovative business solutions
• Evaluate the efficacy of business principles to effect change in global environments 

What is a DBA and how does it differ from a PhD?

A DBA is a professional doctorate with a focus on theoretical knowledge and its application to business practice. While also intended to prepare graduates for academic careers, the DBA has more practical application in managerial settings than the PhD.

A PhD is a research degree for candidates who would like to pursue a traditional academic career and conduct research that contributes to business knowledge or theory.  

The DBA and PhD are academically equivalent. Concordia-Chicago graduates holding a DBA degree are prepared to work in executive and leadership positions within organizations, as consultants, or in scholarly pursuits at universities and colleges. 

Download additional program information  (PDF)

Program Information

View curriculum, core: 17 credits, foundations of the doctoral experience.

This course orients and provides students with the foundational tools they will need for success in writing course assignments, literature reviews, and the dissertation. APA style, scholarly writing, academic integrity, library literacy skills, and writing for an academic audience will be reviewed. (2 credits)

The Global Leader: Social Responsibility and Ethical   Decision Making

A critical examination of the creative tension among the three principal components of organizational performance: leadership, social responsibility, and ethical decision making. This course examines the leader as the principal driving force of global performance, the role of sustainable social responsibility in the global world and the intricacies of ethical decision making in diverse cultures.

Global Concepts in Strategic Marketing

This course examines the marketing function from a global perspective. It focuses on the managerial application of marketing tools and methodology across multiple cultures and emphasizes marketing decisions associated with allocating organizational resources. The course will assess and analyze strategic product development and design, pricing, promotional strategies, and distribution in a global environment.

Strategy Formulation, Deployment, and Innovation: A Global Perspective

This course reviews the key elements of strategy formulation, deployment, and innovation in a global environment. Considered are the applications of strategic management in the formulation of global strategy, the unique elements of strategy deployment in a global environment and the process of using formulation and deployment in creating innovative global strategies

Business Analytics and Financial Decision Making

This course provides experience and application in predictive analysis and advanced data analytics to discover new business trends. It provides for powerful new visualization that empowers the use of big data in reaching financial decisions  that support effective global planning strategies for identifying and taking advantage of new global market opportunities.

Global Business Operations

This course provides the tools and knowledge to enable business managers and leaders to synchronize and optimize value from existing physical or intangible resources. Such knowledge facilitates prudent decision making and obtaining value from organizational assets, including supply-chain management that can create optimal performance.

DBA Mentor Course Rooms: 15 credits

The ten DBA Mentor course rooms run concurrently with core, research, and specialization courses. The Mentor course room begins the student’s introduction to the dissertation process starting in the second term of the student’s program. Each Mentor course room has a specific deliverable that coincides with one of the elements of the dissertation.   

Residencies: 3 credits

Dba residency experience 1  .

The residency occurs during the first term of a student’s enrollment in the DBA program. It provides students the opportunity to meet professors and peers, as well as build a community that they can access throughout their program and beyond. Residencies provide a rich learning experience. Some of the competencies students will develop in Residency I include an introduction to the DBA research and dissertation process focusing on problem identification. Students will self-assess their leadership, time management, and research skills. Students will establish a Comprehensive Professional Portfolio in which to record their significant achievements in the program.

DBA Residency Experience 2

Students who have approved prospectuses will emerge with a plan for writing chapters 1-3 of the proposal. Pre- and post-work encompasses the term.

DBA Residency Experience 3  

This course is taken after the proposal is written, with the goal of preparing students to collect data and write chapters 4-5 of the dissertation. 

Research Methods: 10 credits

Research design.

Emphasis on how to design doctoral-level, business research. Principles of research theory, methods, inquiry, problem formulation, data collection, literature searches, and ethical considerations. Emphasis on how to design a doctoral-level research study. (4 credits)

Quantitative Research and Advanced Statistics 

This course provides an understanding of the unique advantages of quantitative research in research and business and uses statistical software to explore, analyze, and apply descriptive and inferential statistics through both non-parametric and parametric techniques.

Qualitative Research

An examination and application of qualitative research approaches with a focus on research design, the role of the researcher, data collection and analysis, and writing from a qualitative perspective.

Specializations: 9 credits

Innovation in health care management, innovative best practices in health care management.

This course is a survey of best practices in health care management and focuses on those determined to be innovative through recognition from Malcolm Baldridge Awards, Magnet Certification, and the Center of Excellence Designation. Innovation is reviewed and methods and techniques that stimulate, develop, and foster innovative practices are examined. 

Health Care Analytics and Financial Applications for Health Care Management

This course examines the application of health care analytics and models to increase health care performance by the health care facility or system with emphasis on revenue cycle management and supply chain management using mobile technologies and other advanced techniques. It uses analytics in examining financial management, patient care innovations that improve financial performance while improving quality and mitigating risk.

Governance of Health Care Systems 

This course reviews health care system governance from the perspective of strategic policy formulation and execution, the governing body, ensuring the establishment of internal controls to ensure the integrity of the system, methods for accountability and transparent reporting to health care system stakeholders. It reviews innovative practices in health care system governance using information technology to leverage and ensure that the organization is proactive and compliant to regulations, accreditation standards as it meets the needs of the patient population it serves. 

STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP AND INNOVATION

Strategic leadership thought                                                                                                  .

This course provides a compendium of leadership on how one leads in today's global, interconnected world. This goal is achieved through two reciprocal actions: leadership thought and thought leadership. Leadership thought provides a historical framework of leadership thought and the conditions under which it appears to effective. Thought leadership is a unique, informed, useful and relevant perspective that derives from strategic leadership thought. It starts at the top, is integrated throughout the organization, and becomes an integral part of the brand.

Strategic Leadership Practice                                                                                                  

This course surveys the universe of leadership practice and allows the student to assess and determine the optimal leadership practice for their situation. It provides a collateral seven-point principle framework that covers care, communication, consciousness, contrasts, context, change, and capability in better understanding the contemporary issue of leadership practice.

Disruptive Innovation Execution                                                   

This course builds on a synthesis of leadership thought and practice and examines them in the context of innovation and its execution. Innovation execution begins with Strategic Leadership Thought and Practice and translates them into actionable knowledge. The course builds upon the course,  Strategy Formulation, Deployment, and Innovation: A Global Perspective . Students will learn how to create a flexible yet disciplined innovation process to support strategic leadership thought and strategic leadership practice.

Comprehensive Professional Portfolio: 0 credit

To document and assess academic progress, students will prepare and present their Comprehensive Professional Portfolio (CPP) prior to defending their dissertation proposal in the final Mentor course room. The CPP is a systematic reflection and documentation of the student’s experience in the DBA program. Students complete a complex assignment within each Mentor course room that provides a basis for evaluating the degree of mastery of all learning outcomes for that course. This experience provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate their command of the knowledge, skills, and expertise necessary for conducting research within their area of focus. The student will present their CPP either virtually or in person to their dissertation committee prior to defending their dissertation proposal. 

Dissertation: 6 credits

DBA Dissertation Intensive #1  DBA Dissertation Intensive #2  DBA Continuing Services 

Program Structure

• Core courses and specializations courses capture the knowledge needed for the business profession
• Three residency courses provide sustained participation with peers and faculty members in scholarly/creative activities
• Acquisition of skills of inquiry, development of research techniques, and the incorporation of professional values
• Mentors who work with students through their program of study
• eBooks and eResources are used to contain costs
• Coursework and activities are integrated, ensuring all student effort is complementary
• Dissertation discussion begins in the first term
• The program is designed for three-year completion. Students requiring more time register for continuing services. The three-year delivery model mirrors the business environment and is managed by the student as a business enterprise
• Students do not wait until course work is finished to focus on their dissertation 
• Note: travel and accommodations are not included in tuition

The Mentor Experience

At Concordia-Chicago, doctorate of business administration students are matched with a mentor in the second term of their program of study. Mentors are selected for their business and research knowledge and their strong interpersonal skills. The relationship between the mentor and the student builds quality into the dissertation in a step-by-step, measurable way, preparing the student to begin collecting data, and writing chapters 4 and 5 of the dissertation supporting the completion of the dissertation by the end of year 3.

"The heart of the CUC DBA is the one-to-one mentoring course room experience. 'To innovate is not to reform: It is introducing useful change' (Adair, 2011, p. 412). The CUC DBA mentoring experience is an innovation in doctoral education. Concordia’s DBA dissertation mentoring experience starts as a continuous support to you as your mentor helps you orchestrate the dissertation journey. 'We Can Do This Together,' is the winning mantra." Charlene Dunfee, DM, PhD DBA Core Faculty

DBA Residencies

The Concordia-Chicago DBA program integrates three residencies at pivotal points of the program. Whether students are taking courses face-to-face or online, everyone attends residencies to enable personal support of program requirement achievement and ensure on-time graduation. Residences provide a rich blended-learning experience. Pre-and post-work encompasses an entire 8-week term .

Career Outlook

The market is robust for holders of the doctorate in business administration. Generally, MBA programs and other business-related master’s programs link to a DBA as a logical next step in business professionalization. As business requirements become more demanding and specialized, the demand for advanced business and leadership training, such as in the DBA, will increase. According to learn.org, graduates holding a doctor of business administration degree are prepared to work in executive positions, such as CEOs, within organizations or in scholarly pursuits at universities and colleges. Chief executives, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, earn high six-figure salaries or more, and professors with business doctorates tend to earn high wages from consulting, in addition to teaching and conducting research.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) occurs prior to initiation of course work. The number of students admitted will be limited to ensure quality of program and dissertation advising.

Applicants who are successful in their application for admission for entrance into the DBA program will meet the following criteria:

• Master’s degree  from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA*
• A completed Doctoral Application for Admission  
• Provides a coherent argument for pursuing doctoral study of business management.
• Demonstrates the ability to frame one’s own ideas and those of scholars in the field into a logical and persuasive presentation as to why this degree fits with their professional career goals.
• Speaks to how their academic background has informed their interest in pursuing doctoral research in business. 
• Demonstrates a thoughtful and intentional purpose for pursuing a DBA. Why is this the right degree for you?
• Shows his or her ability to write professionally and use citations and references, demonstrating his or her knowledge in identifying and using evidence to support one’s thinking and ideas. 
• Transcripts:  Submission of official transcripts of all degrees conferred.
• 1 professional recommendation
• 1 academic recommendation
• Past experience:  5 years of professional experience is recommended.

*Exceptions to the 3.0 master’s GPA may petition the dean of the College of Business for admission; additional admission criteria may be required.

Note: Students will need to maintain a 3.0 GPA while in the program. 

All documents should be submitted to:

Office of Graduate Admission and Student Services Concordia University Chicago 7400 Augusta Street River Forest, IL 60305

The office fax number is 708-209-3454.

Admission recommendations are submitted from the admission committee to the Dean of the College of Business, who will then make the final admission decision and communicate the decision to the candidate. The admission committee may establish an admission waiting list, if necessary.

Students who are applying for admission to the doctoral program are precluded from enrolling in any courses that meet doctoral program requirements until the student has been completely admitted to the program.

Each DBA student will be required to assess their potential for success in specific business courses. If the pre test (administered through Peregrine Academic Services) indicates that you require additional support, you will take a leveling course in the specific content area through Peregrine to help you develop the foundational business knowledge so you will be more successful in the doctorate degree in business administration. You may take the pretest any time between receiving your acceptance into the program and during the first term of course work. You will receive information regarding Peregrine and how to take the pre test after you are admitted. This is not an admissions test, and does not impact your admission status.

The Graduate Admission Committee reserves the right to request additional information or documentation deemed helpful in evaluating applicants for admission.

Pending Status

Doctoral and international students are not eligible for Pending Status.

Applicants who are not U.S. citizens are required to meet all admission standards listed for the program they wish to enter. In addition, the following are required to be considered for admission:

• TOEFL:  A score of at least 60 (internet) minimum requirement on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), or successful completion of Level 112 at an English Language School (ELS) unless English is the native language, and an unqualified recommendation from an ELS program director is provided.   (International students who have earned an advanced degree from an accredited institution in the United States do not need to submit TOEFL scores.)
• Transcripts:  Transcripts from each college/university attended showing all college/university course work with certified English translations of all transcripts originally prepared in any other language. Also, any international transcripts must be evaluated by a Concordia-approved international credentialing service such as WES (World Education Services), ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators), or AACRAO (American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admission Officers).
• Financial Support:  A certified document guaranteeing adequate financial support for at least the student's first year of study and, barring any unforeseen circumstances, adequate funding from the same or an equally dependable source, for subsequent years.
• Medical:  A physical exam, adequate medical insurance, and proof of immunization are required prior to enrollment.
• Regular Admission Requirements:  International students must qualify for regular admission to a degree program in order to enroll.

All documents must be received by the Office of Graduate Admission and Student Services at least three months prior to the expected date of entry. I-20 forms may be issued only after University acceptance is granted and will remain in effect only for students who continue to make satisfactory progress as full-time students in an accepted university program. The program length of the doctoral program may vary for each student.

*International Student Requirement

Seminar in higher education (edu 6015).

In addition to the base program curriculum, international students attending face-to-face classes on the CUC campus are required to take the Seminar in Higher Education, a 3-credit course. This requirement will not apply to international DBA students studying exclusively online.

The CUC Advantage

The doctorate in business administration is a terminal, professional degree within the broad-reaching fields of business, social enterprise, and public sector management. Holders of the DBA frequently work in executive leadership capacities in a variety of industries and organizations and in academe. While many executive leaders may hold graduate business degrees, increasing complexity, new knowledge, and turbulence within the business environment requires an advanced level of knowledge, skill, and ability. 

The Concordia University Chicago DBA focuses on practice, contributing to extending the theoretical base of the particular practice and extending the use of business knowledge through application. The CUC DBA integrates academic and dissertation preparation through a tightly monitored schedule concurrent with course work, rather than in a linear fashion in which students take courses first and then write their dissertation. 

"Keeping up with your profession, or, as a business expert aptly put it, 'to always be fit for future action,' is a key responsibility of any business professional. The Concordia-Chicago DBA provides a pathway that empowers business professionals to proactively keep pace with their fast-changing professions. The Concordia-Chicago DBA focuses on three vital areas (a) leading for innovation, (b) honing the student’s capacity to conduct research, generate, and apply analytics, and (c) sharpening the student’s ability to think critically and communicate effectively. These essential skills transcend skills acquired at the master’s level, and enable the professional to adapt to a continuously changing world. Students will earn not only a DBA, but a Concordia-Chicago DBA."   Dr. Claudia Santin Dean, College of Business

Admission Counselor

Connect with your admission counselor.

• 708-263-6758

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Online doctoral degrees

Education & business administration.

At Concordia, we understand obtaining your doctorate is no small feat, and there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. Our graduate school experience is tailored for ease and flexibility, offering online programs that cater specifically to working professionals eager to elevate both their careers and personal growth.

Our doctoral programs consist of fully online coursework with two required in-person residencies allowing you to meet your professors and cohort. You'll graduate with a strong sense of community, empowered to make real change in the world as an uncommon leader.

Education Pathways

Doctorate of education.

Become a life-long learner and impactful leader with an EdD Be the one to find solutions and introduce innovative practices. 

Doctorate of Education in Leadership in Continuous Improvement (LICI)

Our cross-disciplinary program empowers you to become an impactful leader in any vocation with our three core areas of study, each customizable to meet your needs:

• Leadership Core
• Innovation and Improvement Science Core
• Research Core

Choose to specialize your doctorate in one of the following areas:

• Any combination of the two

Dissertation

Our program is tailored for you to kickstart your dissertation in the first year, leading to successful completion within three years. Immerse yourself in research seminar courses that offer a structured roadmap to assist you through the dissertation process. With a dedicated research chair by your side, you'll receive continuous support and valuable feedback as you craft each chapter of your dissertation.

Education Options

District Administrator (Superintendent) license : Do already have your master's and are looking to become a District Administrator along with earning your EdD? Fifteen credits from our District Administrator licensure program can transfer into our EdD program, meaning you'll only have 45 credits left to complete.

Doctor of Philosophy

Doctorate of philosophy in leadership in continuous improvement (lici).

Our interdisciplinary program empowers you to become an impactful leader in any vocation with our three core areas of study, each customizable to meet your needs:

Set apart from traditional PhD programs, it eliminates the need for Teaching Assistant (TA) duties. This means you can dedicate more of your time and energy to your coursework, research projects, and crafting your dissertation.

Embark on a detailed journey with our fully online 60-credit curriculum, inclusive of four innovative research courses, each meticulously crafted to guide you on your path to securing your PhD distinction.

• The Christian Leader Journey Colloquium (3-credits)
• 360 Thinking & Analysis Colloquium: Thinking Critically about Research (3-credits)
• Education & Learning Colloquium (3-credits)
• Psychology & Human Behavior Colloquium (3-credits)

Each course was designed to challenge and inspire, offering profound insights and expanding my intellectual horizons. Every class contributed to my development as a scholar and an educator. The courses equipped me with skills and knowledge that are essential for my academic pursuits, profession, and beyond. Dr. Merlin B. Rosal, 2023 EdD Graduate

Business Pathways

Doctorate of business administration.

Two concentrations available: Finance & Economics, Organizational Performance & Change (OPC)

No matter what your long-term goals are, Concordia's online DBA program will help you to learn holistic business practices. You'll graduate well-rounded with both quantitative and qualitative skills, ready to lead with confidence and competency. Choose from one of our two concentrations:  

Financial & Economic Management

A DBA in finance will allow you to study how financial and economic theory impacts global and regional organizations. You’ll graduate well-versed in business and industry with the tools to stay current with trends while applying the concepts to organizational structure and productivity.

Organizational PERFORMANCE & CHANGE

Looking for a DBA in leadership? Look no further!  Learn the applied methods and theories addressing organizational improvement. Graduate with the skills you need to improve productivity and effectiveness while minimizing resistance to change at the employee, team, and organizational levels while unleashing your expertise. This is ideal for you if you see yourself in HR, learning & development, C-suite, consulting, etc.

All but dissertation

For those who have completed all requirements for a doctorate except their dissertation: Earn your DBA

Our new All But Dissertation pathway provides an opportunity for students who began their doctorate and completed all of the required coursework at another university except the doctoral dissertation.

How does it work?

• Incoming students can transfer up to 30 credits into the DBA program.
• 24 credits will be accomplished through research courses, helping you write your dissertation
• 6 topical credits
• Collaborate with other DBA students in one three-day residency held in either January or July of the year you begin. 
• Your faculty advisor will guide you through seven dissertation courses so you make consistent progress from day one.
• The average length of completion is 1.5 years.
• Upon dissertation completion, you will graduate with a Doctorate in Business Administration.

PhD in Business Administration

Doctor of philosophy in business administration.

Within our PhD program, your journey will be centered around honing advanced research capabilities paired with the mindset of a scholar-practitioner. You will be guided by seasoned professionals who excel in merging practical experience with academic insights. As you progress, you will acquire the essential tools, experiences, and knowledge necessary for driving transformation and enhancing performance in organizations through innovative research techniques.

Dive into our comprehensive 60-credit online curriculum, featuring four cutting-edge research courses, all designed to pave your path towards achieving your PhD distinction.

• Advanced Quantitative Research (3-credits)
• Advanced Qualitative Research (3-credits)
• Mixed Methods Research (3-credits)
• Emerging Qualitative Research Design & Methods (3-credits)

Our faculty and students will work alongside businesses to address their needs and conduct research that is important to organizations. I'm excited to see what the future holds for our students and our programs. We will continue to carry our "uncommon" experience forward as we prepare future professors and business leaders. Dr. Matthew Hurtienne, Business School Dean

Find the information you need

Program features, dissertation.

Start your dissertation journey in your first year. Navigate through its complexities with targeted courses that map out clear pathways to successful completion.

Fully Online

Online courses with two required three-day residencies on our Wisconsin campus. Each residency will involve course work, projects, and networking with your doctoral peers.

The cohort model enables you to collaborate and build your professional network while receiving individualized attention from expert faculty.

Questions? Click to schedule a call

Funding your doctorate

Concordia's payment plan allows you to break tuition into automatic monthly payments

Scholarships, financial aid, and convenient payment plans.

Uncommon Scholarships

Concordia offers Uncommon Scholarships to help bring this investment in your future within reach. These scholarships, which range from   $150-$500 per three-credit course , are available for:

• Concordia alumni
• Employees of our corporate and academic partners ( AAH , Edcor , Bright Horizons , & more)
• Employees of qualifying Christian churches and schools
• Veterans and dependents

Tuition Reimbursement

Your employer/school district may offer tuition reimbursement, minimizing the cost to you. Ask your HR department if you are eligible.

Payment Plans

Concordia's payment plan allows you to break tuition into automatic monthly payments, making budgeting for your new career a reality.

Financial Aid

Qualifying students may be eligible for Federal Aid. When you fill out the FAFSA make sure to select Concordia University Wisconsin.

• CUW  FAFSA code: 003842
• CUAA FAFSA code: 002247

Years to graduate

Cost per credit.

Request a call back from our specialists

Our education expert will provide you all the details you need.

Phd business administration in accountancy in Concordia university

Concordia University

Montreal, Montreal

JMSB's accounting programs and faculty members adhere to rigorous quality standards of scholarly and teaching excellence. JMSB s Accounting Faculty possesses wide-ranging areas of expertise. Current areas of research include financial statement analysis, incentive compensation management, ethics in accounting and auditing, performance measurement and reporting, balanced scorecards and costing systems in health care management, governance and financial reporting, value creation through IT investments, and international accounting.

A master's degree or equivalent with high academic standing, TOEFL iBT minimum score 95 or IELTS (Academic) minimum score 7.0, Statement of Purpose, Student Questionnaire, CV, Three Letters of Reference, Official Transcripts, Official GMAT Score (minimum of 630)

Accountant, Tax advisor, Business administrator, Financial analyst

Study in Germany with Berlin School Of Business And Innovation

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2024-2025 Catalog

Doctoral degrees.

The University of Idaho awards the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in recognition of high achievement in scholarly and research activity. The degree of Doctor of Education is granted for high scholarly attainment and in recognition of the completion of academic preparation for professional practice. See the "Ph.D. and Ed.D. Procedures" tab for more details. The Doctor of Athletic Training is offered through the College of Education and the Department of Movement Sciences (see the "DAT Procedures" tab for more details).

The major professor and program offering a particular doctoral program indicate the general philosophy of the degree program, the objectives of courses and seminars, the research specialties available, and requirements unique to the department. Admission to the doctoral program is granted only to those who have a recognized potential for completing the degree.

Requirements for Doctoral Degrees

Credit requirements.

For the Ph.D. and Ed.D., a minimum of 78 credits beyond the bachelor's degree is required.; At least 52 credits must be at the 500 level or above and at least 33 of the 78 credits must be in courses other than 600 (Doctoral Research and Dissertation). A maximum of 45 research credits in 600 (Doctoral Research and Dissertation) including 6 credits of 599 (Non-thesis Research) or 500 (Master's Research and Thesis) may be in the 45 research credits used toward the degree. For the D.A.T., a minimum of 66 credits is required and follows a prescribed set of courses set by the program.

Courses numbered below 300 may not be used to fulfill the requirements for a doctoral degree; courses numbered 300-399 may be used only in supporting areas and are not to be used to make up deficiencies. Individual programs may require additional course work. Applicants having a doctoral degree may obtain a second doctoral degree subject to the approval of the Graduate Council. The Graduate Council will establish the requirements for the second degree.

Credit Limitations for Transfer, Correspondence Study, and Non-degree

For the Ph.D. and Ed.D. degrees, a student must complete at least 39 of the 78 required credits at the University of Idaho (U of I) while matriculated in the College of Graduate Studies. Credits can be transferred to U of I with the consent of the student's major professor, the committee (if required by the program), the program's administrator, and the dean of the College of Graduate Studies. Credits can be transferred only if the institution from which the credits are being transferred has a graduate program in the course's discipline. All credits used toward graduate degrees must be from regionally accredited American institutions or from non-US institutions recognized by the appropriate authorities in their respective countries. Transfer credits are subject to all other College of Graduate Studies rules and regulations. Correspondence study courses may be applied to the degree only with the prior written approval of the College of Graduate Studies. Courses used toward an undergraduate degree, professional development courses, and courses on a professional development transcript are not available to be used toward a doctoral degree.

Time Limits

Of the credits submitted to satisfy the requirements for a Ph.D. or Ed.D. degree, a maximum of 30 may be more than eight years old when the degree is conferred, provided the student's committee and program administrator determine that the student has kept current in the subjects concerned. Graduation must occur no later than five years after the date on which the candidate passed their preliminary or general examination. These time limitations can be extended only on recommendation of the committee and approval by the Graduate Council.

Awarding Doctoral Degrees to Members of the Faculty

Regulations are outlined in Section 4920 of the Faculty-Staff Handbook.

Particular Requirements for the Ed.D. Degree

A period of professional practice is required for the Doctor of Education degree; the period involved is determined by the student's supervisory committee. While the Ed.D. is a College of Education degree, you should consult with the departments in the College of Education to learn of specific emphasis requirements.

Procedures for Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Education Degrees

Appointment of major professor and committee.

Refer to " Appointment of Major Professor and Committee for All Degree Seeking Graduate Students " in the preceding General Graduate Regulations section. In addition, a doctoral supervisory committee consists of at least four people: the major professor as chair and at least one additional UI faculty member from the program, the balance of the committee may be made up of faculty members from a minor or supporting area, and faculty members from a discipline outside the major. If the committee has a co-chair, the minimum number of committee members is five.

Qualifying Examination

The qualifying examination is a program option and serves to assess the background of the student in both the major and supporting fields and to provide partially the basis for preparation of the student's study program. A particular program may or may not require a master's degree as a prerequisite for the qualifying evaluation. As soon as the program's qualifications are met, a supervisory committee is appointed.

Preparation of Study Plan

Refer to " Preparation and Submission of Study Plan " in the preceding General Graduate Regulations section.

Preliminary Examination for Ph.D. Degree

The preliminary examination should be scheduled only after the student has completed the majority of the courses on their study plan. The student is required to be registered during the semester the preliminary examination is taken. The student's committee certifies to the College of Graduate Studies the results of the preliminary examination and if passed, the student is advanced to candidacy. Graduation must occur no later than five years after the date on which the candidate passed their examination. If the preliminary examination is failed, it may be repeated only once; the repeat examination must be taken within a period of not less than three months or more than one year following the first attempt. If a student fails the preliminary examination a second time, or the program does not allow the student to repeat the examination after the first failure or the student does not retake the examination within one year, the student is automatically moved to unclassified enrollment status and is no longer in the degree program.

General Examination for Ed.D . Degree

When the student approaches the end of their course work, has completed the professional experience requirement, and has outlined the dissertation subject in detail, the supervisory committee approves the holding of the general examination. The student is required to be registered during the semester the general examination is taken. The examination is both written and oral and is intended to assess progress toward degree objectives. The student's committee certifies to the College of Graduate Studies the results of the general examination and if passed, the student is advanced to candidacy. Graduation must occur no later than five years after the date on which the candidate passed their examination. If the general examination is failed, it may be repeated only once; the repeat examination must be taken within a period of not less than three months or more than one year following the first attempt. If a student fails the general examination a second time, or the program does not allow the student to repeat the examination after the first failure or the student does not retake the examination within one year, the student is automatically moved to unclassified status and is no longer in the degree program.

See the General Graduate Regulations section regarding application for advanced degree, registration requirements, final defense and dissertation requirements.

Procedures for Doctor of Athletic Training

The culminating clinical project.

Students enrolled in the Doctor of Athletic Training (D.A.T.) will engage in research projects during the curricular phase of the program. These project(s) will lead to at least two publication ready manuscripts, and all students must meet professional authorship requirements (regardless of order). See the  Department of Movement Sciences and Doctor of Athletic Training webpages for more information.

The Team (Committee)

All D.A.T. project team committees will have at least four committee members: two members of the athletic training faculty (all with graduate faculty status), the student's attending clinician (who is the student's on-site mentor during the student's residency), and an expert in the student's chosen area of clinical research. The athletic training faculty members will always chair the CCP, provide research guidance, and serve as the experts in the development of advanced practice in Athletic Training. A situation may arise in which one or both of the members of the committee that are outside of the AT program faculty may have a degree less than that of which the student is seeking; however, the intent of the third and fourth D.A.T. committee membership is to provide outside validation of the student's progress toward advanced practice and clinical utility of action research studies.

Culminating Clinical Project Hours

These dissertation hours may be used in instances when the CCP has not been successfully completed and the curricular phase of program has been completed.

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Doctor of Business Administration

Impact and grow the business world with evidence-based decision-making skills from this Doctor of Business Administration degree.

Enhance your business skills to the highest level in a doctoral program

It's time to achieve the highest level you can in business. It's time to implement positive change on the performance of organizations and their employees. Connect with other motivated professionals where you will grow your skills and network together for the next three years.

Submit your application by May 1 for the July 2024 start.

Experience greater learning, networking, and collaboration with other doctoral students.

Questions? We’re here to help

Our team is available to help you as you consider the next step in your education.

Get answers to your questions

Our team is standing by to assist you with additional program details, financial aid options, and admissions questions.

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is the highest accredited academic business degree at Concordia University. In this program, you will identify and research the challenges organizations are facing in today's evolving business environment. There is a focus on developing applicable knowledge and skills that you can take back to your workplace and make an immediate difference. Your growth as a scholar-practitioner will change your mindset when encountering complex issues and new business opportunities. With the completion of a dissertation, you will gain the confidence and expertise to a be an impactful leader in business.

This three-year, 60-credit program features two concentrations:

• Financial and Economic Management: Study how the financial and economic theory impacts global and regional organizations. You'll have the opportunity to explore further either financial or economic principles allowing you to apply the concepts to organizational structure and productivity.
• Organizational Performance and Change (OPC):  Learn applied methods and theories that address organizational improvement by examining individual, team, and organizational analysis and enhancing decision-making techniques.

Concordia University offers another doctoral degree with the more research-intensive Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).  Discover the Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration  and dive into high-level research.

DBA Student Discussion

Listen to these students explain their reasons for pursuing a DBA and why they chose to earn their doctoral degree at Concordia University.

NEW  - All But The Dissertation (ABD) option

Have you started your doctorate but life got in the way? Have you completed your DBA courses, but never finished your dissertation? Our program provides the opportunity for students who have completed all requirements for a doctorate at another institution except for their doctoral dissertation to earn their degree. Concordia University welcomes all applicants who have achieved this status in their graduate education. We will help you achieve your goal and set you up for success. 

The online courses follow an 8-week format during this three-year program. For your dissertation, you will be assigned a research faculty advisor that has expertise in your chosen dissertation topic. Also, our DBA coordinator will support you as you progress through your courses, projects, and more.

A key component to the DBA program is utilizing a cohort format. It helps optimize your learning as you work to earn your doctorate degree. As a DBA student you are required to attend two in-person residencies at our campus with your assigned cohort. Each residency takes place for three days and consists of courses, networking, and other business-related activities. You will participate in the first residency when you start the program, and the second residency takes place during your final year.

Letter from the DBA Director

Hear from our students

The DBA is a practical doctorate. It is a practical endeavor. You get to choose what you want to study. You get to choose what makes a difference to you.

This doctoral program is making a difference in your life, and you’re instantly making a difference in your team, and your organization.

Recommended for you (based on programs you’ve viewed)

Entrance requirements.

• Must have a master's degree with a focus in this doctoral program or other relevant degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• Have earned a minimum GPA of 3.0 on 4.0 scale in one's master's coursework. (A lower GPA will be considered on an individual basis.)
• Provide proof of English proficiency if English is a second language.
• No GMAT or GRE is required.

 Admissions process for graduate school

• Select the Graduate option
• Submit official transcripts from graduate or equivalent coursework
• Submit a resume or CV, and a list of references
• Submit an example of scholarly writing from graduate-level courses or other related work
• Participate in a video-conference interview

  Apply Now

Accepted into the program

• An official acceptance letter will be emailed to you that will include your Student ID number.
• An email from your Admissions Counselor will be sent to you with Next-Step details and you will need to submit your tuition deposit.
• Password information will be sent separately from the Information Technology office which will provide you with access to Blackboard, your Concordia email account, and your student portal.

Please note:

• Uncommon Scholarships: If you meet qualifications, please complete an application Uncommon Scholarship

Admission to the DBA program is governed by policies and procedures developed by the Batterman School of Business and Concordia University of Wisconsin. The University reserves the right to refuse admission or re-admission to any prospective study or re-enrollment to any student. Any applicant who intentionally withholds pertinent information or falsifies information may be required to withdraw from Concordia University. The University and the Batterman School of Business reserve the right to make necessary changes to admission requirement without notice.

The DBA is a competitive admissions process. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the DBA program. Concordia University of Wisconsin and the Batterman School of Business may request additional documentation to evaluate a candidate’s record before a final admissions decision can be made.

Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis through the calendar year.

Effective in the Fall 2022 semester, students who have taken equivalent doctoral-level courses at a different university can submit a DBA Transfer Credit Application to have up to 30 credits count towards Concordia's DBA program requirements. Courses must be equivalent in scope and rigor to Concordia's DBA courses.

Concordia MBA students who receive pre-approval to take up to 12 qualifying DBA credits (at the 8000-level or above) may count these credits toward the DBA program.

It is the responsibility of each applicant to supply official transcripts along with a transfer credit request to have the credit(s) applied to the DBA program. Students may be asked to submit a syllabus for coursework being considered for transfer, along with a rationale as to why the student believes the course(s) meets the DBA requirements. Eligibility of transfer credits will be assessed by the DBA Director and based on relevance to DBA studies.

• International students should contact the Office of International Admissions at [email protected] for additional information on eligibility and application requirements. For more details, please visit our International Admissions website page.  

Graduate Admission Office at   [email protected]  or  262-243-4300.

Angela Belz Ph.D., M.S.

Department Chair - Qualitative Programs, Associate Professor Phone: (262) 243-2174

Angela Belz teaches marketing, public relations, business communication and leadership administration. Her research focuses on how organizational systems and business principles can improve the conditions of under-served populations. She recently initiated and was approved to create a neuromarketing lab in the School of Business in order to enhance the scientific quantitative research into consumer decision making and human behavior.

• Ph D - Leadership for the Advancement of Learning and Service, Cardinal Stritch University (2018)
• MS - Student Personnel Administration, Concordia University Wisconsin (2007)
• BA - Business Administration , Ottawa University (2004)

Research Interests

• Social media and consumer behavior
• Social media and mental health

Teaching Interests

• Marketing Research/Neuromarketing
• Public Relations

Gerard I. Bolling

Adjunct Professor Phone: (347) 257-7599

Rev. Dr. Gerard Bolling currently serves as the Assistant Professor of Leadership and Theology at Concordia University Texas, and also as an LCMS Pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in St. Louis. His professorship is fully online, and teaching remote students is a major a passion of his. Dr. Bolling is a proud CUW EdD LICI 2020 program graduate. He has been married to his lovely wife, Lorenda, for six years and they have two young children.

• EDD - Leadership, Innovation and Continuous Improvement (LICI), Concordia University Wisconsin (2020)
• M Div - Pastoral Theology, Concordia Seminary (2016)
• Urban Ministry
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
• Business/Nonprofit leadership
• Theology/Religion

David Borst BS, MBA, EDD

Adjunct Professor Phone: (414) 828-9298

Dr. David Borst is the Executive Director and COO of the Family Business Leadership Partners (FBLP). Prior to joining FBLP as the director, Dr. Borst served 18 years at Concordia University Wisconsin, the last six as dean of the School of Business. Dr. Borst left CUW fulltime in 2014 to run multiple businesses under his label of borstthebrand.com. He is a regular columnist in Biztimes magazine , and is the Director of the Raabe Honors Academy.

• EDD - Higher Education, Argosy (2003)
• MBA - Business Ethics, Marquette (1987)

Julie Dilling PhD, MBA, CPA

Adjunct Professor

My industry experience includes five years as an accountant in service and manufacturing. This work experience is followed by 13 years at an international public accounting firm where my career began in tax and transitioned to senior manager of a consulting division specializing in accounting software implementations. Teaching is my passion. I strive to be a mentor that promotes a growth mindset to support students in their educational endeavors.

• Ph D - Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology: Integrating Technology, Learning, and Psychology, Grand Canyon University (2019)
• MBA - University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh (1995)

Contributions

• Dilling, J. (2020). Comparing teaching and social presence in traditional and online community college learning environments. (vol. 44 (10-12), pp. 854-869). Community College Journal of Research and Practice.

Presentations

• Dillling, J., Varga, M. & Mandernach, B., (1970). Quality peer review to create best practices for online learning. Oral Presentation. Proceeding of the 2017 Annual Business Occupations Systems Symposium – 2017. Wisconsin Dells, WI, USA.
• Dilling, J. & Harmsen, A. (1970). Quality peer review to create best practices for online learning. Oral Presentation. Proceeding of the 2017 Higher Learning Commission Conference. 2017, Chicago, IL, USA.
• Dilling, J. & Hurtienne, M. (1970). Student success: Elements that promote persistence through development. Oral Presentation. Proceeding of the Annual Flexible Learning Conference – 2016. Madison, WI, USA.
• Dilling, J. & Hurtienne, M. (1970). Persistence of nontraditional students in online education. Oral Presentation. Proceedings of Canvas - 2014 Conference. Park City, UT, USA.

Gene Gloeckner Ph.D, MS, BS

I've been a professor of research design and statistics for several decades. I have been the advisor for over 65 doctoral students. Those students are my second most proud accomplishments, behind my three children. I have written dozens of articles, textbooks, and chapters. I love snow skiing. I also enjoy water skiing, running, yoga, meditation, and family time. I look forward to learning more about you.

• Ph D - Technology Education, Research Design, The Ohio State University (1983)
• MS - Industrial Sciences, Colorado State University (1977)
• Learning and Teaching
• Higher Education
• Organization Performance and Change
• Quantitative Research Design
• Mixed Methods Research Design

Kenneth E. Harris Ph.D; MBA; BA; BS

Department Chair - Justice and Public Policy Phone: (262) 243-4365

Kenneth Harris, Jr., Ph.D. is Department Chair - Justice and Public Policy; Chief Strategist of Talented Strategies; retired Police Lieutenant; President - Launch MKE; President - 100 Black Men of Greater Milwaukee; Commissioner - City of Milwaukee Civic and Safety Commission.

• Ph D - Leadership Studies, Marian University (2009)
• MBA - Finance, Concordia University Wisconsin (2002)
• BA - Management of Criminal Justice, Concordia University Wisconsin (2000)
• BS - Mass Communication, Illinois State University (1984)
• Diversity and Inclusion, Cornell University (2019)
• African American Law Enforcement Officers
• Self-Leadership
• Criminal Justice

Erik W. Hollander Ed.D., MBA

Adjunct Professor Phone: (414) 732-7297

Erik brings wide ranging career experience with over 10 years in Medical Oncology (including Leadership roles), and over 10 years in Higher Education (including full and part time faculty). Erik has traveled the world and presented research in Europe. He currently works as a consultant.

• EDD - Organizational Change and Leadership, University of Southern California (2020)
• MBA - Healthcare Administration, Concordia University Wisconsin (2011)
• Organizational Performance
• Student Success
• Organizational Change

Laura E. Hurtienne Ed.D. Transformational Leadership

Director - DBA Program, Assistant Professor Phone: (262) 243-2093

Dr. Laura Hurtienne is an educator and researcher. She earned her Ed.D. in Transformational Leadership from Concordia University Portland and is an alumna of Concordia University Wisconsin, where she earned her Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction. As a professor, she teaches and writes doctoral and undergraduate courses in leadership, change, research, and innovation. Dr. Hurtienne also supports doctoral students as a dissertation advisor. She is fully engaged in the fields of equity leadership, change management, employee engagement, and organizational development. Dr. Hurtienne has experience owning her own healthcare business and has consulted with businesses and organizations during critical times of transformation.

• EDD - Transformational Leadership , Concordia University Portland (2017)
• MS - Education, Concordia University Wisconsin (2012)
• BA - Music, University of Wisconsin Parkside (1999)
• Hurtienne, L. & Hurtienne, M. (2024). An introduction to equity leadership: Meeting individual employee needs across organizations. In Dr. Thomas Garavan (Ed.), (5/6 ed., vol. 48, pp. 609-624). European Journal of Training and Development. https://doi.org/1...
• Hurtienne, L. (2022). Preliminary Findings of the Theory of Educational Change.. Other. Academy of Human Resource Development Conference. Moved from in person to online.
• Employee Engagement
• Leadership and change
• Leadership and engagment

Matthew Hurtienne Ph.D.

Dean - Batterman School of Business, Professor Phone: (262) 243-2024

• Ph D - Education and Human Resource Studies, Colorado State University (2015)
• MS - Organizational Leadership, Norwich University (2009)
• BS - Management, Southern Illinois University (2007)
• Instructional Design Mastery Series , Online Learning Consortium (2016)
• Organizational Effectivness
• Human Resource Development
• Organizational, Performance, and Change

Jarod Husmann Ph.D., PT, FACHE

• Ph D - Business Management, Capella University (2020)
• MS - Healthcare Administration, Capella University (2006)
• Organizational Readiness for Change
• Operations & Process Improvement
• Healthcare Management & Administration
• Organizational Change Management
• General Business Management

Oleg Ivanets Ph.D.

Department Chair - Quantitative Business, Assistant Professor Office: Student Services - CUAA SS134

I have 7 years of industry experience in private equity followed by 8 years of university teaching experience. My research interests are macroeconomics and monetary policy; financial stability; long-term investments and sustainable development.

• Ph D - Economics, University of Hawaii at Manoa (2018)
• MS - Economic cybernetics, Shevchenko National University of Kyiv (2006)
• Ivanets, O. (2022). A road to hell is paved with good intentions: an empirical investigation of the macroeconomic impact of mortgage loans using VAR. Case of Australia.. Oral Presentation. 97th WEAI (Western Economic Association International) Conference. Portland, Oregon.
• Financial stability
• Sustainable development

Jennifer Knowles Ph.D, M.S.

Assistant Professor

Assistant Professor Faculty in the School of Business who teaches primarily in the Doctor of Business Administration program.

• Ph D - Organizational Learning, Performance and Change, Colorado State University (2017)
• MS - Human Resources and Organizational Development, Eastern Michigan University (2003)
• BS - English, University of Michigan (2000)
• Knowles, J. & Mainiero, L. (2021). "Authentic Talent Development in Women Leaders Who Opted Out: Discovering Authenticity, Balance, and Challenge through the Kaleidoscope Career Model. " In Special Issue Editors: Dr. Justin Irving and Dr. Christopher Howard, of the Special Issue: Servant Leadership and Organizational Effectiveness (Ed.), no. (2 ed., vol. 11). Basel: Administrative Sciences. https://doi.org/1...
• Authenticity, Balance and Challenge
• Women in the Workforce
• Organizational Performance and Change
• Social Entrepreneurship

Daniel Sem PhD, JD, MBA

Associate Vice President - Academics for Research and Innovation, Research Professor Phone: (262) 243-2778

• JD - Intellectual Property; Corporate Law, Marquette University (2015)
• Ph D - Biochemistry, UW-Madison (1990)
• MBA - Marquette University (2013)
• BS - Biochemistry, UW-MIlwaukee (1986)
• Sem, D. & Beck, J. Academic Freedom in Private Religious Universities.
• Usai, R., Kaluka, D., Cai, S., Sem, D. & Kincaid, J. (2023). Solution phase refinement of active site structure using 2D NMR and judiciously 13C-labeled cytochrome P450. (vol. 241, pp. 9). Elsevier. https://www.scien...
• Wetzel, E., Marks, K., Gleason, A., Brown-Ford, S., Reid, T., Chaundhury, S., Lindeman, S., Sem, D. & Donaldson, W. (2022). Discovery of two novel (4-hydroxyphenyl) substituted polycyclic carbocycles as potent and selective estrogen receptor beta agonists. (vol. 73, pp. 5). Elsevier.
• Sem, D. (2021). Chronic oral administration of a novel estrogen receptor beta agonist enhances memory and alleviates drug-induced vasodilation in young ovariectomized mice. (vol. 130, pp. 10498). Hormones and Behavior.
• Sem, D. (2020). Synthesis and evaluation of 17a-trazolyl and 9a-cyano derivatives of estradiol. . (vol. 28, pp. 115670). Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry.
• Drug design and development
• Intellectual property
• Entrepreneurship
• Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Design

J. M. Sullivan PhD

Dr. J. Michelle Sullivan has a healthcare background of more than 20+ years that involves working on a variety of projects as an employee, vendor, and contractor in both "for profit" and "not-for-profit" health systems and medical centers. Combining her knowledge of healthcare specialties with information technology resulted in many successful implementations and adaptations of workflows to computer applications, processes, and hospital policies.

• Ph D - Organization Learning, Performance and Change (OLPC), Colorado State University (2020)
• MA - Computer Resource Management and Information Systems, Webster University (1996)
• Tolerance of Ambiguity in Health Care
• Systems and Processes in Health Care
• Building Trust in Health Care
• Hospital Administration
• Electronic Health Record and Associated Information Systems
• Business Intelligence and Data Analysis

Wayne R. Wendling PhD

Adjunct Professor Phone: (414) 581-0487

Applied economics has been the focus of Wayne Wendling during has 40-year career in which he has directed applied economics and analytics research teams for major health associations, insurance companies and foundations. He has authored over 20 articles in peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings and books, and has served on industry, public policy and university advisory research committees. Wayne Wendling is also the holder of a patent.

• Ph D - Economics, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (1977)
• BA - Economics, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (1971)
• Wendling, W. (1976). Optimum Pricing Strategies for Sports Events. (vol. Management Science in Sports). North-Holland Publishing Company.
• Wendling, W. (1979). A Comparison of Probit, Logit, Discriminant Analysis and OLS. Proceedings of the American Statistical Association.
• Wendling, W. (1980). Health Manpower Programs to Affect Physician Location. Journal of Health Politics, Policy and Law.
• Wendling, W. (1980). Nonprofit Firms and the Economic Theory of Regulation. Quarterly Review of Economics and Business.
• Wendling, W. (1984). The Plant Closure Policy Dilemma: Labor, Law and Bargaining. Kalamazoo: The Upjohn Institute for Employment Research.
• Corporate Objectives and Market Performance
• Risk Management and Capital Allocation
• Economic Cycles and Quality of Care in Health Care Facilities
• Microeconomics - Market Structure
• Risk Management
• Econometrics

Martin Zummersch

Adjunct Professor Phone: (920) 400-0563

For the last 20 years, Dr. Zummersch has been involved in the development of new product development strategies, the creation of successful product portfolios, and the development and launch of large product platforms in the industrial and consumer goods industries in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Dr. Zummersch is member of the Project Management Institute PMI, and the American Society for Quality ASQ.

• DBA - Business Administration, Case Western Reserve University (2008)
• MBA - Operations Management, Case Western Reserve University (1999)
• Group Decision Making
• Organizational Frontlines
• Design Thinking
• Project Management
• Operations Research

How does it work?

• As an incoming student, you can transfer up to 30 credits into the DBA program.
• In addition, 30 credits will be needed to graduate - 24 credits through research courses to help you write your dissertation and 6 topical credits.
• Collaborate with other DBA students in one three-day residency in either January or July of the year you begin. 
• Your faculty advisor will guide you through seven dissertation courses so you make consistent progress from day one.
• Average length of completion is 1.5 year. 
• Upon dissertation completion, you will graduate with a Doctorate in Business Administration.

To be admitted into the DBA program, applicants must:

• Have a master’s degree with a focus in business or other relevant degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• Submit an application at cuw.edu/apply
• Seven year maximum for transfer credits from a regionally accredited institution. Credits aged between 8 and 12 years can be accepted as an exception, with director approval.
• Must have completed all required doctoral program coursework and/or achieved candidacy at another institution
• Cannot be academically dismissed from the previous doctoral program
• Previous doctoral programs must academically align with a degree program and specialization offered by Concordia 
• Discuss events that lead to the ABD status
• Explain how the CUW Doctorate of Business Administration ABD pathway can help you meet your goals.
• A research topic or interest area that the applicant plans to study
• No GMAT or GRE required
• Have earned a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in prior doctoral program.Exception with director approval
• Applicants for whom English is a second language must provide English proficiency

Our latest webinar features valuable insights from two current DBA students. Their discussion touches on the dissertation, the benefits of a cohort, our program's flexiblity, and how to manage a doctoral with work and life.

Previously recorded webinars:

• New DBA concentration in Business Sustainability
• The DBA experience from a current student's perspective
• What is a DBA and why Concordia?
• In-depth look at the three concentrations
• How to successfully complete your dissertation
• DBA overview
• Overview of the three DBA concentrations
• The doctorate experience- What to expect
• How to complete your dissertation successfully

Concordia celebrates its inaugural DBA graduates

Celebrating short-term wins: A catalyst for long-term success at work

How these Army veterans are rising in the ranks with a DBA from Concordia

Creating a positive remote organization

Concordia announces new business school appointments

Equity Leadership: Impact on Employee Engagement

Developing Leaders in a VUCA World from an Online Master's through Doctorate

Cracking the Talent Management Code

Student Spotlight: James Trazile

DBA Student Story: Jennifer Kowal

Getting your DBA at Concordia University: Our Uncommon Approach

Student Spotlight: Kayla Gritzmacher

Demand is Surging for Business Sustainability Professionals

What is a DBA Residency?

Creating a Healing Organization

Facutly Spotlight: Dr. Dana Sendziol

Improving HR's Organizational Performance

Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Jenny Kehl

Five Contemporary OPC Trends in the Workplace

Uncommon Business Part 1: Business Sustainability at Concordia University

Uncommon Business Part 2: Transforming Business Sustainability through Impactful Education

We are excited to share the dissertation titles successfully defended by our inaugural graduates of the DBA program at Concordia University.

Doctoral Student: Joseph Smith, Director of Weights and Measures, State of Wisconsin Dissertation Title: Perceptions of State Government Employees on Diversity and the Citizen Outcomes from Diversity in Government 

Doctoral Student: Kayla Gritzmacher, Director of Clinical Services, Compassus Dissertation Title: Effects of Nurse Burnout on Patient Fall Rates in Long Term Care

• 24/7 : +1-866-687-2258

[email protected]

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

• August 13, 2024

Table of Contents

Professional landscapes change fast, and so do the qualifications they demand. Thus, advanced, impactful degrees are a big draw for those aspiring to leadership roles and beyond. Among the most prestigious and impactful degrees for such positions are the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and the Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership (PhD). 

This article will analyze the differences between the two and help guide you towards the best choice for your future.

Bottom Line: Go DBA for Industry, Go PhD in Leadership for Academics

• Both degrees equip you with credibility , expertise , and skills like problem-solving and analytical thinking .
• They’re also excellent networking opportunities.
• DBAs have a practical focus on applied research and professional development.
• PhDs are much more about theory, research, and academia. They add to the body of knowledge that already exists. 
• DBA programs are more flexible , while PhDs tend to be full-time commitments

First off, while both degrees aim to enhance leadership capabilities , each caters to different career paths and personal aspirations. You need to understand where you are and clearly envision where you want to be. Only then can you figure out the path to get there.

Advanced Degrees and Leadership Roles Depend on Each Other

Whether with a DBA or a PhD in Leadership, you’ll equally advance toward the knowledge and skills required for leadership roles . They’re both good paths forward if you consider moving upward in your career. 

It’s not just about having that nice “Dr.” before your name, but it sure is a big part of it. Doctoral programs grant you credibility and expertise in your field of choice.

You’ll improve at thinking critically and strategically about complex problems – undoubtedly a significant requirement for managers and directors everywhere.

Both types of programs involve research . That means you’ll spend considerable time with data, analyzing it, and drawing conclusions from it. 

And then there’s the networking. If you want to move upward toward a leadership role, you’ll be happy to rub shoulders with a network of professionals, academics, and industry experts . 

Let’s discuss the DBA in Global Leadership

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Global Leadership is designed for those who wish to apply research to practical business challenges,issues, and problems. Its main qualities include:

• Practical Focus : The DBA is heavily oriented towards practical, real-world business issues. It aims to develop leaders who can implement effective organizational strategies and solutions.
• Applied Research : DBA candidates often work on research projects that directly apply to their workplace or industry, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
• Flexibility : Many DBA programs, such as those offered by California Intercontinental University (CIU), are designed to be flexible and accommodate business professionals and working executives. These programs often offer online courses and part-time options, allowing students to balance their studies and professional responsibilities.
• Professional Development : DBA programs emphasize professional growth, leadership skills, problem-solving skills, analytical skills, and executive decision-making, preparing graduates for high-level leadership roles in various industries.

PhD in Leadership: Key Characteristics

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Leadership is more academically inclined, focusing on theoretical foundations and research. Key characteristics include:

• Theoretical Focus : PhD programs in Leadership delve deeply into theories of leadership, organizational behavior, and management. They aim to advance the field through original research and scholarly contributions by adding more to the body of knowledge.
• Academic Research : PhD candidates conduct rigorous research, often contributing new knowledge. Their work is typically published in academic journals and presented at conferences.
• Full-Time Commitment : PhD programs are usually full-time and require a significant time commitment. They often involve teaching responsibilities, research assistantships, and comprehensive exams, and are often more expensive.
• Career in Academia : A PhD in Leadership is ideal for those who wish to pursue a career in academia, teaching at universities, and conducting high-level research.

Choosing the Right Path for You

Deciding between a DBA and a PhD boils down to three main factors:

• Industry vs Academia
• Professional Focus vs Academic Focus
• Flexibility vs Commitment

If you work in an industry and want to keep it that way, go with the DBA. Learn everything there is to learn and go apply it to practical problems in your area. However, if your goal is to continue doing research for a living while teaching at a university, a PhD might be a better choice.

The next question is whether you want a program emphasizing practical application or theoretical knowledge . DBA for the former, PhD for the latter.

So good so far. What about flexibility and commitment ? DBAs are better suited if you want to keep your job while working toward earning your degree. PhDs tend to be full-time commitments that demand the better part of your life for a few years. Oh, and DBAs tend to be better for online programs .

Meet Stevens Bonhomme

Before finishing the article, let’s highlight the story of Stevens Bonhomme and how a DBA propelled him to new heights. 

Stevens graduated from CIU in 2019, with a shiny new Doctor of Business Administration in Global Business and Leadership . He kept an impressive CGPA of 3.78 and made the President’s List for high academic achievement.

One of Stevens’ top goals was to receive a doctorate by the age of 30. He achieved this at 28 while working full-time at Microsoft. Remarkably, he completed the program in just one year by doubling up on classes each term. His dissertation, titled “Adaptation of Business Strategies in Haiti and the United States – The Case of Five Culturally Diversified Small Business Owners,” spanned 150 pages and highlighted his dedication and ambition.

Stevens has held various leadership roles at Microsoft, served as an Adjunct Professor of Business at Northwest University, and is the Founder & CEO of Feedcoyote, a robust social productivity network. His journey illustrates how a DBA can open doors to diverse leadership opportunities and drive impactful change.

Both DBA and PhD in Leadership programs provide distinct benefits for aspiring leaders. Your ideal choice depends on whether your career goals are in industry or academia. Pursuing an advanced degree not only deepens your expertise and enhances your credibility but also equips you with the essential skills to navigate leadership challenges in a complex environment. For professionals managing other commitments, flexible online DBA programs , such as those at CIU, offer a practical route to achieving your leadership ambitions.

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Master of Business Administration

Earn your master's degree in business administration at UW-Eau Claire through our accredited and innovative online program.

Elevate Your Business Practices

Take your business education and career to the next level with a master’s in business administration from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, offered through the University of Wisconsin MBA Consortium . Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) — a prestigious rating earned by less than 5% of the world’s business programs — our renowned online program allows you to complete the degree when it's convenient for you.

Throughout the program you’ll develop your leadership skills, learn strategies for managing the day-to-day operations of an organization and discuss how global agreements and changing technologies affect the conduct of business. Classes cover a variety of topics, allowing you to explore new industries or build on previous experience.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked the University of Wisconsin MBA Consortium program among the top 10 programs in the nation in its Best Online MBA Programs rankings . We take pride in the quality and innovative style of our program. Our faculty are trained in how to best teach online classes, and class sizes are kept small to encourage a personalized education.

Our students come from a variety of backgrounds and industries, averaging over twelve years of work experience before beginning the program. Students represent over 38 states and 75% have non-business undergraduate degrees, meaning no matter your location or education, you will fit right in.

Program Details

Accreditation information.

The University of Wisconsin MBA Consortium is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International). Wisconsin is a SARA state (State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement) and the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is a SARA-approved institution.

The University of Wisconsin MBA Consortium, was once again ranked among the top online master’s degree programs in business administration in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report. Rankings were determined based on engagement and accreditation, as well as faculty credentials and student excellence.

While some MBA programs only offer preselected courses, here you can choose electives that align with your personal ambitions and interests. Choose from courses oriented around communication, leadership, marketing, international business, and more.

Many of our students work full-time jobs, juggling busy schedules and families. With this in mind, all of our courses are offered completely online, with no campus visits required. In addition, you have seven years from the date of enrollment to complete your degree, allowing you to complete the program at your own pace.

Blugold Stories

Through the MBA Consortium program, I was able to access a flexible, affordable, and robust curriculum that was perfectly tailored to my needs. The program not only provided me with the skills and knowledge I needed to develop myself, but also helped me network with other professionals and develop lifelong relationships.

The instructors and fellow classmates were exceptional to study from and learn with. I found that every professor genuinely wants to help us gain more understanding and competence in the concepts being studied. They are open to suggestions, flexible, and very willing to share real-world experiences.

Students across states, industries and interests have discovered the education they’ve been looking for in the master’s in business administration program at UW-Eau Claire. 

Just the facts

100% Online This program can be completed entirely online.

100% Employed or Continuing Education Every 2022-2023 graduate from this major is currently employed or continuing their education.

Where can the master of business administration program lead me after graduation?

Graduates of the MBA program leave with enhanced skills, additional tools and more connections, well-prepared to advance their career. With a well-rounded and diverse curriculum, our alumni can be found in a variety of roles and industries, including academia, finance, healthcare, technology, and communications. 

Recent Graduates

National Promotions Manager General Motors Corp. Michigan

Economist U.S. Government Wisconsin

Assistant Professor of Management University of Washington Washington

Computer Operations Manager Madeline Island Ferry Line Wisconsin

News Editor Business Wire Arizona

Our highly accredited program expands on your foundation in business, with a focus on building leadership and organization strategy skills. The comprehensive courses will allow you to build on existing experience and prepare you for management and leadership roles, making you an even more qualified and sought-after candidate. Electives, including classes focused on health care administration and project management, allow you to take courses that are relevant to you and your career goals.

Here are a few courses in Master of Business Administration at UW-Eau Claire.

Essentials of Financial Analysis

In this course, students will interpret corporate financial statements, specifically how the information within the statements informs the corporate decision-making process. Students will learn how to analyze the past performance of a corporation. They will apply this knowledge to enhance strategic decisions. Principles covered in this course include financial statement analysis, ratio analysis, comparative analysis, pro forma financial statements, time value of money, and project analysis with capital budgeting techniques (NPV, IRR). Students will apply these concepts in business applications in subsequent graduate business coursework.

Competing Strategically in a Global Environment

This course focuses on how managers must lead their companies strategically in developing and sustaining ongoing efforts to compete globally. Students will learn a series of interrelated steps in which managers conduct analyses at the industry, business, and corporate levels, decide on strategies to enhance firm competitiveness, and evaluate and modify those strategies as needed.

Leading & Communicating in Dynamic & Diverse Organizations

Students will learn how to effectively communicate with and lead diverse groups of people within dynamic organizations. They will enhance their competency in the areas of teamwork, emotional intelligence, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Regardless of functional area expertise, industry experience, or position, students will enhance specific skills in audience analysis, listening, group dynamics, conflict management and negotiation. These skills will enable students to develop inclusive organizational cultures, manage and retain employees, and work more effectively with others.

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Related Programs

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College of Business and Economics

College of business & economics.

Physical Address: 875 Campus Drive J.A. Albertson Building 

Mailing Address: College of Business & Economics University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 3161 Moscow, ID 83844-3161

Phone: 208-885-6478

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College Accreditation

Business faculty, entrepreneurship.

• Management and Human Resources

Operations and Supply Chain Management

Pga golf management program, genevieve briand, temporary faculty/lecturer in economics.

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Marc Chopin

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312 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-7204

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Daniel Hickman

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209 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-6704

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Steven Peterson

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218 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-5730

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Stefanie Ramirez

211 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-0104

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215 J.A. Albertson Building

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Eric Stuen is an associate professor of economics. His research areas are labor, regional, and international economics.

George Tanner

Idaho entrepreneur director and senior instructor- entrepreneurship.

332 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-6475

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Paul Bartell

Barker trader in residence.

115 J.A. Albertson

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Duff Bergquist

118 J.A. Albertson Building

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Terrance Grieb

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217 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-7140

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Magdy Noguera

Associate professor of finance.

308 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-6204

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229 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-7154

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Rusty Schatz

Lecturer of finance.

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Business Management

Jeff bailey, professor of business management.

120 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-7156

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227 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-0843

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Dan Eveleth

329 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-4396

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Erick Larson

Student engagement director, assistant clinical professor of business management.

208 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-7150 Fax: 208-885-5087

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Simon Mahler

Lecturer in business.

230 J.A. Albertson Building

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Douglas Albertson

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328 J.A. Albertson Building

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Berna Devezer

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207 J.A. Albertson Building

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Mya Pronschinske Groza

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Michael McCollough

Professor of marketing.

223 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-7151

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T.H. (Tae-Hyung) Pyo

Assistant professor of marketing.

316 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-5836

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Sanjay Sisodiya

Associate dean, associate professor of marketing.

301E J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-1231

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Todd Martin

Instructor of operations and supply chain management.

331 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-7506

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Shenghan Xu

Associate professor of operations and supply chain management.

213 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-1083

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Marketing and Communications Manager

301G J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-8843

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Senior Instructor and Director

306B J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-9772

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Michael Tolle

Pga golf management coordinator.

306 J.A. Albertson Building

208-885-2790

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Scott Metlen

Emeritus faculty.

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