Online DBA Degree from the World's Top Schools

A Doctorate in Business Administration is a specialized advanced degree that focuses on business and management. With this degree, you will have the opportunity to sharpen your skills in analyzing data, developing strategies, managing challenges, and making decisions. It is designed to give graduates the knowledge and tools needed to lead organizations effectively while driving innovative solutions.

Unlike other business degrees, such as an MBA or a Master’s in Management, a DBA program concentrates more on research-based theory and approaches that can be applied practically. It emphasizes hands-on experiences through case studies and projects that allow students to learn from real-world examples. This curriculum combines traditional classroom instruction with current industry trends, preparing graduates for careers as high-level leaders.

There were only 28 online DBA programs in 2018, and less than half were fully online. Most universities require some in-person experiences, such as residencies and/or conferences. It is worth noting that online programs are becoming increasingly popular, with many providing quality instruction via a variety of distance learning formats.

Online DBA Program Features 

• Hybrid Model

Its hybrid format allows working professionals to gain knowledge and skills without taking a break from their careers. Whether you prefer full-time or part-time studies, the flexible schedule allows busy people to pursue their educational goals easily.

• Online Learning 

With the innovative blended DBA program, learners can conveniently take their courses online and satisfy residency requirements simultaneously.

• Quick Boost to your Knowledge 

A Doctorate in Business Administration will sharpen your academic skills and help you attain leadership roles that necessitate intense research. Moreover, it will enhance your problem-solving capabilities and refine both critical thinking and communication prowess.

• Ease of Accessibility through LMS 

These courses are hosted on premier Learning Management Systems that boast video conferencing, live online lecture sessions, and a variety of other distance learning tools.

• Taught by Highly Skilled Faculties and Industry Leaders 

Like conventional programs, online doctorate business programs are taught by faculty members with terminal degrees and extensive experience in the Doctor of Business Administration field. High-quality instruction is guaranteed to give you an edge in your professional life.

• Certified and Accredited 

They come with appropriate regional or national accreditation like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

The doctor of business administration programs are becoming increasingly popular and sought-after. Here are six top universities that offer excellent DBA programs:

Temple University, Philadelphia 

Name of the Program: Business Administration DBA

Temple University's Fox School of Business in Philadelphia offers an executive-level Doctorate in Business Administration that is delivered through a hybrid format. This DBA degree program has been tailored for experienced professionals with at least 10 to 15 years of managerial experience, allowing them to continue their professional endeavors while advancing their education. This doctoral program offers professionals the essential knowledge and resources required to stay ahead of industry trends, guaranteeing them an edge in their career paths and within their organizations. With the theories and tools acquired through this degree, graduates will have no trouble navigating ever-changing markets as well as excelling professionally.

Temple University's part-time program is designed to be completed in three years and incorporates online coursework along with 6 onsite weekend sessions over the first two years. This structure provides an advantage for professionals, as they not only gain knowledge through their classes but also get firsthand industry experience, plus a chance to build relationships with fellow classmates that will last even after graduation.

Features of the Program: 

• Hybrid Format: Online coursework and 6 onsite weekend sessions over the first two years
• Flexible Schedule: Students can study whenever it is convenient for them.
• Experienced Faculty Members: The faculty has either a doctoral or terminal degree and extensive experience in the business world.
• Customization Options: Tailor the program to your career goals
• Immersive Experience: Gain hands-on experience and build relationships with peers.

Hult International Business School, Cambridge 

Name of the Program: Doctorate in Business Administration

Hult International Business School has a long and distinguished history, beginning in 1964 as the Arthur D. Little School of Management in Cambridge. Renamed Hult International Business School nearly 40 years later, it now stretches its branches across continents with New York City, San Francisco, London, Shanghai, and Dubai campuses. Staying true to its innovative and pioneering roots, the DBA program offers an uncommon challenge-oriented curriculum design with a primary focus on practicality while also requiring rigorous research. This provides students with an extraordinary academic experience that is truly second to none.

Hult's Doctorate Degree in Business Administration is offered as a part-time hybrid program and can be finished within 30 months. Studying online with biweekly live sessions and three yearly visits to one of our campus locations are also required for the duration of your studies - each visit requiring you to stay at least an extended weekend.

Features of the Program: 

• Hybrid Format: Online coursework with biweekly live sessions and three yearly visits to a campus
• Tailored Learning Experiences: Customize your program to suit your career aspirations
• Global Networking Opportunities: Develop relationships with peers from around the world
• Innovative Curriculum Design: Learn through an adapted challenge-oriented method
• Practical Focus: Gain knowledge and experience that can be applied directly in the business.

Thomas Edison State University, New Jersey 

Name of the Program: Online Doctor of Business Administration

Located in the vibrant city of Trenton, New Jersey, Thomas Edison State University provides its Doctor of Business Administration degree completely online. Our DBA program is tailored to business professionals who strive for executive leadership roles and higher education or consulting positions within their respective industries. With a TESU DBA degree, you are well-equipped with the knowledge and practical experience needed to excel at an advanced level in today's competitive world! To be considered for admission to the Thomas Edison State University Doctor of Business Administration program, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in organizational leadership or managerial roles. Their curriculum is structured around three primary areas: Organizational Leadership, Human Resource Management, and General Management.

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program requires a total of 48 credit hours to complete and can span up to 7 years, giving you ample time and flexibility. 39 credits are dedicated towards Inquiry Systems and Models, the Integrated Business Curriculum, your unique Area of Study, as well as Teaching & Consultative Professional Practice - meaning only 9 credits remain for the Scholar-Practitioner Field Project, which will bring everything together in an impactful way.

Features of the Program: 

• Flexible Format: Completely online with no residency or travel requirements
• Innovative Curriculum Design: Focus on Inquiry Systems & Models, the Integrated Business Curriculum, and individual Areas of Study
• Scholar-Practitioner Field Project: Bring your experience to life in a project that is meaningful to you and your field
• Network with Professionals: Gain access to the diverse and expansive TESU Alumni Network
• Highly Experienced Faculty: Learn from renowned faculty who offer their expertise and mentorship.

Grand Canyon University, Arizona 

Name of the Program: DBA in Data Analytics – Quantitative

Grand Canyon University offers an impressive selection of Doctoral programs in Business Administration, including Data Analytics, Management, and Marketing. Each program is further divided into either Qualitative or Quantitative Research options to suit your particular needs. For those studying Quantitative programs, the primary emphasis is on analyzing numerical data through various statistical tools for interpretation. On the other hand, Qualitative program students concentrate more on investigating events in order to gain greater insight into observed phenomena. Their program offers around 60 credit hours and is designed to scaffold students’ learning and foster research skills that will aid in their successful completion of the degree.

Accessible online, the program also requires students to attend two or three five-day residencies at GCU's Phoenix campus. During their time there, not only do they receive intensive mentorship and feedback from peers, but a chance to network with potential business contacts as well. With these incredible opportunities available on campus, this is an invaluable experience that one shouldn't miss out on!

Features of the Program:

• Flexible Format: Online curriculum, with two to three five-day residencies in Phoenix, Arizona, each year
• Research Focus: Concentrate on either Qualitative or Quantitative research for your Doctoral program of choice
• Networking Opportunities: Meet potential business contacts through the GCU Alumni Network and get invaluable feedback from peers
• Robust Curriculum: 60 credit hours of courses that are designed to scaffold learning and foster research skills.
• Highly Experienced Faculty: Learn from GCU's renowned faculty members, who offer their expertise and mentorship.

The George Fox University, Oregon 

Name of the Program: Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

George Fox University, located in Newberg, Oregon, is a premier destination for earning your Doctor of Business Administration degree. Its unique focus integrates faith and ethics into the study and practice of business leadership to ensure well-roundedness in its DBA program graduates. This one-of-a-kind program provides an avenue for aspiring academic/professorial roles or industry consultants and executives who are looking to expand their skill set, gain knowledge on current trends, and seek new career opportunities - all while deepening their understanding of responsible business practices. This program is a comprehensive four-year journey comprising 56 credit hours of intense study in the areas of management and business analytics. The first three years will be devoted to coursework, while the fourth year can be allocated toward dissertation work. You have two concentration options - Management or Business Analytics – both with nine credits each!

The program is offered as a cohort model, combining hybrid delivery and maximizing peer-to-peer learning. Most of the coursework takes place online, but there are two obligatory in-person residencies each year to collaborate with professors and other students. With this unique fusion of digital and real life interaction, you will be able to gain an unparalleled education experience!

Features of the Program: 

• Integrator of Faith: Addresses topics such as ethics and leadership from a faith-based perspective
• Comprehensive Program: Four-year journey with 56 credit hours in management or business analytics
• Hybrid Delivery: Online coursework combined with two in-person residencies each year to maximize peer-to-peer learning
• Two Concentrations: Explore either Management or Business Analytics concentrations, with nine credits each
• Industry Connections: Obtain invaluable insight from industry professionals via residencies and access to the George Fox University alumni network.
• Highly Qualified Faculty: Learn under the guidance of renowned faculty members who are experts in their field.

University of Maryland Global Campus, Maryland 

Name of the Program: Online Doctor of Business Administration

The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) offers a highly specialized Doctorate in Business Administration that prepares students to be successful business leaders. The program is delivered online and requires 60 credits to complete, with the option of completing an MBA degree along the way. It's perfect for those who are already working as professionals or managers and need the flexibility of studying online. The comprehensive curriculum covers a wide range of topics and provides unique opportunities to gain hands-on experience in business areas such as marketing, finance, and operations management. You will be able to hone your knowledge of current business practices and trends while also learning how to apply research methods for data analysis and decision-making. In addition to the coursework, you will get to engage with a range of industry professionals via residencies and gain valuable feedback from peers.

By implementing a practice-based research model, this program assists students in honing the skills needed to identify and resolve real issues. With renowned and experienced faculty from Brad D. Smith Graduate School of Business leading the way, participants can gain invaluable knowledge from some of the best minds in their field.

Features of the Program: 

• Flexible Online Delivery: Accommodates working professionals or managers who need flexibility and convenience
• MBA Degree Option: Enjoy dual degree options – MBA or DBA at the end of your studies
• Robust Curriculum: 60 credit hours of courses that are designed to scaffold learning and foster research skills.
• Highly Experienced Faculty: Learn from UMGC's renowned faculty members, who offer their expertise and mentorship.
• Industry Connections: Obtain invaluable insight from industry professionals via residencies and access to the University of Maryland Global Campus alumni network
• Hands-on Experience: Develop practical skills in areas such as marketing, finance, and operations management.
• Research Model: Engage in practice-based research to identify and resolve real issues.

The DBA program is a three-year journey of 75 credit hours, with tuition and once-off fees amounting to (avg.) $74,174.96. However, additional costs such as travel expenses for conferences/residencies, meals & lodging as well books or other materials are not included in this figure. In addition, a $200 non-refundable deposit and a Professional Development Seminar fee of about $1,500 may be due upon registration. Fortunately, these fees will be applied to your tuition expenses during the first semester.

Here's a table that breaks down the fees and costs associated with the program:

(*Please note that the value in the table may vary with each DBA program.)

• A bachelor's degree in a related field, such as Business Administration or Management
• A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• Relevant work experience at the managerial level
• Letters of recommendation from academic and/or professional references
• Statement of Purpose outlining your interest in the program and career path
• Official transcripts from all prior colleges or universities attended
• Possible GRE scores depending on the institution's requirements
• International students may be required to provide proof of English language proficiency, such as TOEFL scores.

There are certain doctor of business administration requirements to be eligible for admission into a Doctor of Business Administration program. For example, applicants must typically earn an MBA or equivalent graduate-level degree in business administration and management. However, some institutions may require additional qualifications, such as a minimum GPA or required certifications. Additionally, many DBA programs demand that applicants submit letters of recommendation from past faculty members or employers along with their applications.

In addition to the academic requirements, applicants should keep in mind that some institutions may prefer candidates who possess prior work experience in the field of business administration and management as well as other related areas. In fact, depending on the institution's admissions process and policies, three to five years of professional experience is often considered an asset when it comes to DBA applications.

Ultimately, the best way to determine whether you are eligible for admission into a Doctor of Business Administration program is to check with individual universities and their admissions offices to find out if they meet your specific criteria.

Before enrolling in a Doctor of Business Administration program, verifying the institution's accreditation status is important. Accreditation ensures that an educational program has met and maintained the standards set by its governing body, such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Additionally, some employers may require applicants for business administration and management positions to possess degrees from accredited institutions. Therefore, research each university’s accreditation status before committing to any DBA degree program.

AACSB – Association to Advance Collegiate Schools: AACSB is the most prestigious accreditation agency in the world and one of the largest business education alliances, connecting educators, learners, and businesses to create a more sustainable global economy. It sets stringent standards for higher education institutions that offer graduate degree programs such as Doctor of Business Administration.

The Doctor of Business Administration degree is a terminal professional degree that can prepare you for many different management positions in large and small businesses. Possible fields include, but are not limited to:

• Advanced roles in management, finance, and marketing
• University professor/instructor positions
• Senior business consultant or adviser
• Entrepreneurial opportunities
• Leadership roles in corporate settings
• Government administration positions

Minimum Expected Salary after completing DBA in US

The Doctor of Business Administration degree is a terminal professional degree that can prepare you for many different management positions in large and small businesses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals with doctoral degrees in business administration make an average annual salary of $127,000. While salaries tend to vary depending on the region or industry, DBA graduates can expect to earn higher salaries than those with only Master’s level qualifications.

Job Titles of DBA Holders in the US 

15 career paths you can pursue with a Doctorate in Business Administration: 

1. Senior Business Consultant
2. Management Analyst
3. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
4. Strategy Manager
5. University Professor/Instructor
6. Entrepreneurial Opportunities
7. Corporate Trainer
8. Data Scientist
9. Research Director or Analyst.
10. Business Analyst
11. Chief Operations Officer (COO)
12. Process Improvement Executive
13. Quality Assurance Manager
14. Strategy and Planning Consultant
15. Business Development Manager

Potential Companies that Hire DBA Holders 

There are many potential employers for DBA holders. These include large multinational corporations, small businesses and start-ups, universities and colleges, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, technology companies, consulting firms, and more. 

List of potential companies that requires DBA holder:

• Apple
• Amazon
• Google
• Microsoft
• Walmart
• JP Morgan Chase & Co.
• Accenture
• Deloitte Consulting LLP
• KPMG LLP
• Ernst & Young (EY)

Is a DBA equal to Ph.D.?

No. The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a professional doctorate, while the Ph.D. focuses on research-based knowledge.

Which is the higher degree, DBA or Ph.D.?

It depends on the field and area of study. Generally speaking, a Ph.D. requires more research and academic effort than a DBA does. On the other hand, a DBA focuses more on the practical application of business theories and concepts.

Which is better, Ph.D. or MBA?

Again, it depends on the area of study. Generally speaking, an MBA is better for those seeking a career in business and management, while a Ph.D. is best suited for those looking to pursue a career in academia or research.

Can DBA use DR? 

A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is the academic equivalent of a Ph.D. – you are awarded with a full doctorate and can use 'Dr' as your title.

Can DBA become CEO?

Yes, a DBA can become a CEO, but it's not guaranteed. To become a successful CEO, you will need to have the experience and knowledge necessary to effectively manage an organization. A DBA program provides students with the skills and knowledge required for senior leadership roles in business, such as those of a CEO or COO.

Is DBA respected? 

Yes, the Doctor of Business Administration is widely respected in the business world. It's seen as a prestigious honor and can open up doors to many lucrative management positions in both the private and public sectors. A DBA degree can also be an asset for those seeking senior-level roles within universities or business schools.

Which is the cheapest doctor of business administration online? 

The cheapest Doctor of Business Administration online program is offered by the University of Liverpool, which charges $9,282 USD per year. The University of Texas at Arlington offers a similar program for $13,776 USD per year. Other universities offering affordable online DBA programs include Capella University ($17,832 USD/year), Walden University ($21,840 USD/year), and Auburn University ($24,000 USD/year).