Doctor of business administration (DBA) programs focus on the application of theoretical knowledge to business practice. A DBA is one of two terminal degrees a practitioner can earn in the field. The other degree, a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in business administration, prepares graduates for teaching positions in academia or careers in theoretical research.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs in the business and finance sector to grow 5% between 2019-2029. Many careers in this sector offer high salaries and opportunities for advancement.
This guide ranks the best doctorate in business administration programs. It also covers other important information for prospective students, including common courses and scholarship opportunities for business administration students.
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Why Get a Degree in Business Administration?
Doctorate in business administration programs develop advanced skills in planning and strategic decision-making. Degree-holders often work for large corporations as chief executive officers and directors of global operations. According to the BLS, these professionals typically earn six-figure salaries.
Pursuing a doctorate in business administration online gives students the flexibility to balance their studies with other obligations. Additionally, many schools offer tuition discounts to online students.
How Much Does a Business Administration Degree Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, one year of postgraduate enrollment (2018-2019) at a public institution costs $12,171 on average. Graduate students who enrolled at a private college or university during the same year paid an average of $27,776.
However, many colleges and universities support doctoral candidates through grants and fellowships. Many of these financial aid packages require doctoral students to complete teaching and/or research responsibilities in exchange for covering tuition.
Online students often save money on their degree compared to on-campus students. For instance, online students may save on some of the expenses that on-campus students incur, such as commuting costs. Additionally, many schools offer tuition discounts to online students.
How Much Do Business Administration Majors Make?
A doctorate in business administration qualifies graduates for chief executive positions in diverse professional arenas. Salaries for these roles vary by factors like industry and location.
For instance, the BLS reports that the top-paying industries for chief executive officers include computer and equipment manufacturing, deep sea and coastal transportation, and natural gas distribution. States that pay the highest salaries for chief executives include South Dakota, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
According to the BLS, companies and businesses hire the highest number of professionals in this field, followed by local governments and elementary and secondary schools.
Courses in Business Administration
Schools often allow doctoral candidates to craft an individual plan of study that supports their academic and career objectives. However, most programs still require students to enroll in several foundational courses. Doctoral students also typically need to complete a major culminating activity, such as a capstone project, thesis, or dissertation.
Some doctorate in business administration programs offer concentrations in areas like finance, global business, marketing, and operations and supply chain management.
Courses vary by program, but the following list outlines several courses commonly found in doctorate in business administration programs.
Business Analytics
Learners in this class study business analytics topics such as data mining, applied business statistics, and process optimization. The course familiarizes students with tools and techniques that allow them to make data-informed business decisions.Adaptive Leadership
Students in this class learn how to evaluate systems and initiate changes that benefit organizations. The course presents leadership as a collaborative undertaking that starts with a clear vision and involves the input and experiences of all stakeholders.Multinational and International Marketing
The class examines how to evaluate and implement marketing strategies across countries with varying business cultures. The course focuses on meeting international market requirements and coordinating operations to deliver goods, services, and information in a timely and cost-effective manner.
Certifications and Licensure for Business Administration
Many jobs for graduates with a DBA do not require certification. However, earning these credentials can help candidates stand out in the job market and demonstrate specialized skills. The following list outlines several certifications for DBA graduates.
Certified Business Administrator
Candidates for this credential must complete a certification program that covers management practices, business communication, customer service, and human resource management and organizational behavior.Certified Manager
The Institute of Certified Professional Managers administers this program. Candidates must complete 90 hours of required learning and pass three assessment exams. Candidates must earn the credential in 15 months or less.Project Management Professional
Recognized across several industries and throughout North America, the PMP credential requires at least 35 hours of PMP training. Candidates must also pass a qualifying exam.Scholarships and Fellowships for Business Administration
Many schools support students pursuing a business administration doctorate through fellowships and grant programs. Some programs include annual stipends in addition to covering tuition and fees. Doctoral candidates can also explore scholarship opportunities from professional organizations and private nonprofit groups. The following list outlines several scholarship and fellowship opportunities for DBA students.
| Scholarship | Amount | Who Can Apply |
|---|---|---|
American Fellowships | $6,000-$30,000 | The American Association of University Women welcomes applications from women scholars at different stages of their doctoral program. Applicants must be enrolled full time. |
American Indian Graduate Center Fellowships | Varies | American Indian and Alaskan Native students pursuing a doctoral or professional degree at an accredited U.S. institution can apply for this fellowship opportunity. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and be enrolled full time. |
Government Finance Professional Development Scholarship | $10,000 | Part-time students pursuing a graduate-level degree in business administration with a focus on government can apply. Candidates must show at least two years of employment at a state or local government agency. |
