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

• April 17, 2024

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Business education landscape is marked by two towering pillars: the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and the PhD in Business Administration . These degrees represent the zenith of academic and professional achievement in the business realm, yet they cater to distinct career paths and ambitions. So, let’s compare DBA vs PhD .

While both degrees are terminal , signifying the highest level of educational attainment in the field, they diverge significantly in purpose, structure, and outcome.

The Facts on DBA vs PhD:

• Research Focus : DBAs are for applied business problem-solving; PhDs aim to generate new theories.
• Career Goals : DBAs lead to executive roles; PhDs lead to academic careers.
• Flexibility : DBAs offer part-time options for working professionals; PhDs are full-time.
• Duration and Cost : DBAs are shorter and self-funded; PhDs are longer with potential funding.

DBA vs PhD: Academic Rigor and Research Focus

Both the DBA and PhD involve rigorous research and demand a high level of scholarly work. However, the nature of the research they entail differentiates them. 

The DBA is designed for applied research , focusing on real-world business problems and their solutions. This program is less about generating new theories and more about applying existing knowledge to enhance business practices.

Conversely, the PhD in Business Administration is theoretical and seeks to advance knowledge by developing new theories or refining existing ones. Its curriculum involves research methodologies and academic theory, preparing graduates for academic careers and scholarly research.

The best example of this difference is Doctoral Research Project that culminates the DBA program. This is significantly different from a dissertation, as it allows students to solve specific problems within organizations.

Career Trajectories and Professional Objectives

The career paths of DBA and PhD graduates often reflect the research focus of their respective programs. PhD holders typically pursue academic careers, contributing to the body of knowledge in business and training the next generation of scholars. Their work often involves publishing research and teaching at the university level.

On the other hand, DBA graduates are usually seasoned business professionals who leverage their advanced education to ascend to higher executive roles or consultancy. The DBA equips them with the tools to solve complex business issues, making them valuable assets in the corporate sphere.

DBA vs PhD: Program Delivery and Flexibility

The structure of DBA and PhD programs caters to the distinct needs of their candidates. PhD programs are immersive and full-time , often requiring students to forgo other employment to focus solely on their studies. Many institutions offering stipends and tuition waivers to facilitate this.

In contrast, DBA programs offer greater flexibility . They allow students to balance their studies with work and family commitments. DBA programs at CIU blend learning experiences, as they combine online and on-campus elements to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals. 

Time Investment and Financial Considerations

If you’re wondering how long does it take to get a DBA , here at CIU, we design our doctorate programs to be completed within 2.5 years .

Typically, you can complete a DBA program in a shorter time frame than a PhD. The latter takes between six to ten years. This difference is partly due to the DBA’s focus on practical, problem-solving coursework relevant to current business practices.

Financially, the two programs also differ. PhD students often benefit from funding through fellowships, whereas DBA candidates are usually self-funded , which reflects the program’s orientation toward working professionals.

DBA vs PhD: Making the Right Choice

Choosing between a DBA and a PhD in Business Administration depends on an individual’s career goals, lifestyle, and personal interests . Those inclined towards academic research, theory development, and teaching might find the PhD pathway more fulfilling. Meanwhile, the DBA route is better for business professionals aiming to enhance their strategic decision-making capabilities and impact practical business operations.

Understanding the commonalities and differences between these two esteemed degrees is crucial for prospective students. Both degrees demand a high level of dedication and intellectual rigor and offer the potential to significantly advance one’s career in business, whether in the academic or corporate sphere.

In conclusion, choosing between a DBA and a PhD in Business Administration is not just about selecting an academic program. It’s about charting a course for one’s future career and impact in the business world. 

When making this pivotal decision, prospective students should consider their long-term career aspirations and preferred research focus. Plus, the balance they wish to strike between professional work and academic study. With thorough research and self-reflection, deciding between DBA vs PhD can be a transformative step towards achieving one’s professional and academic goals.

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DBA vs. PhD: What’s the Difference?

You’ve tackled your undergraduate business degree, and now you’re feeling ready to take your business education one step further. You might be wondering, “Where do I even begin?” If this sounds like you, you’ve come to the right place. When it comes to upper-level business degrees, there are a wide variety of options. Two popular options are the Doctor of Business Administration, or DBA, and the Doctor of Philosophy, or PhD. Both options can be an excellent fit for students who are eager to dive even deeper into the world of academia. In this article, you’ll get a better understanding of the difference between the two degrees and gain some insight as to which degree program is the best fit for you.

What Is a DBA?

A Doctor of Business Administration, or DBA degree, is considered a “terminal degree.” This designation simply means that the degree is the highest level of education one can receive in the business world. These degrees are centered around business education with a major emphasis on management. DBA programs often entail a research component that focuses on real-life business problems. Throughout their studies, DBA students learn to apply various theories in solving real issues faced by today’s businesses. This degree is primarily geared toward individuals who currently hold a master’s degree in business or another closely related subject.

What Is a PhD?

PhD programs are another excellent choice for those wishing to further their education. This is also considered a “terminal degree,” and it is the highest-level research degree that one can obtain. These programs involve rigorous research and extensive study. While you’re likely interested in a PhD degree in the business field, nearly any subject can provide this research-based degree, from science, to humanities, to everything in between. While DBA programs are typically intended for students who hold a master’s degree, PhD programs welcome students after completing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related discipline. They are the ideal choice for anyone who might be interested in carrying out research or teaching in an academic institution.

Coursework and Duration: Comparing the Curriculum

While both DBA programs and PhD programs give students a deep understanding of the theories that drive the world around us, they do so in different ways. In a Doctorate of Business Administration program, you’ll focus exclusively on business and management from a practical lens. Application of theory is a major focus, and coursework often provides students with opportunities to put their knowledge into practice by solving real-world business problems. Alternatively, PhD programs are offered in just about any subject one can imagine. They take a more theoretical approach with their curricula, teaching students to understand the “why” and “how” behind both business problems and their solutions.

The typical timeline of these graduate programs differs as well. Since DBA programs are intended for people who already have both a master’s degree and significant work experience, they tend to take less time to complete. Many DBA programs are offered on a part-time schedule, and students can expect to complete their Doctorate of Business Administration in about two to four years. While PhD programs don’t always require as much experience prior to enrolling, they tend to require more time to complete. These research-intense programs usually follow a full-time course schedule with an average completion time that ranges from three to five years.

Practical Experience vs. Thesis Research

The major difference between a DBA education and a PhD education can be summed up as practical vs. theoretical. Students entering into a DBA program typically come with a master’s degree in hand and multiple years of relevant work experience under their belt. As such, DBA programs are designed to expand upon their students’ wealth of prior knowledge and experience. These programs teach students to understand relevant theories and principles of business management, but more importantly, they teach students to apply those theories and principles. DBA programs equip students to bring their education and experience to the table when solving real-world problems.

While DBA students focus on using existing knowledge to solve problems, students in PhD programs work to add new knowledge to the business world. Instead of researching the application of existing theories and principles, PhD students are expected to work on original research, unearthing and exploring new ideas. Thus, PhD programs take a much more theoretical approach rather than a practical one. To put their newly gained insights on display, PhD candidates are usually required to complete a dissertation. Through these lengthy research projects, students demonstrate their knowledge, expand upon their ideas, and showcase their experience.

Career Outcomes of a DBA vs. a PhD in Business Administration

Following completion of their degree, DBA and PhD graduates typically take two different paths when it comes to employment. Much like an MBA, a Doctor of Business Administration prepares students for jobs in both the private and public sector. DBA candidates often go on to work in senior management roles or consulting. Some even choose to open their own businesses. Their practical, hands-on approach ensures that DBA programs leave their graduates well-equipped for these roles.

On the other hand, PhD candidates typically stick to the world of academia following their graduation. They often find work with universities as professors and can even go on to be program directors. Some graduates may also opt to continue expanding upon their research while they teach, sharing their research methods with the next generation of PhD students.

However, as with any degree, the job you’ll find afterward depends on a number of different factors. Your prior work experience and unique strengths gained from both work and the classroom play a big part in determining where you’ll take your talents. Just like your interests and passions will likely guide your choice between DBA and PhD programs, they’ll also guide your job search. External factors do play a role as well. The current job market will decide what specific jobs are available at one time or another, and demand for your specific skill set can determine how well you fit the profile of those available jobs.

DBA or PhD: Which Is Right for You?

Deciding to further your education with a doctorate degree is a huge decision in and of itself. Having to choose between a Doctor of Business Administration and a Doctor of Philosophy might be an even more challenging decision. Each of these programs is considered a “terminal degree,” offering students the highest level of education possible in the field. They provide candidates with advanced training and preparation for high-ranking roles. Whether you opt for a DBA or a PhD program, you’ll be opening doors to a wide range of career opportunities.

To ensure that you make the right choice between the two degrees, you’ll want to take time to think about your career goals. Consider where you are now as well as what you want your career to look like in 5, 10, even 2o years. Do you hope to hold a title as a C-suite executive of a major corporation, calling the shots and leading the teams around you? Or do you hope to be in the classroom, teaching the next generation of business professionals about both new and existing theories in the business industry?

Be sure to spend some significant time weighing out these options, including any accreditation requirements. Once you feel confident in the goals you’ve set, look for programs that are in alignment with the things that are most important to you. Check out the academic career resources and coursework of each program you’re interested in. Give yourself the time and space to carefully consider each of these factors prior to making a decision.

Final Thoughts

Getting a doctorate degree can be an excellent way to take your career to the next level . No matter whether you opt for a DBA or a PhD, these terminal business degrees can make your application stand out among the rest and open doors to previously unattainable job opportunities. DBA programs are a perfect fit for people looking to grow their base of practical knowledge in the field. They prepare graduates to work in upper-level leadership roles within the business environment, solving real problems that companies face on a day-to-day basis. Alternatively, PhD programs are the ideal choice for anyone with an interest in the principles and theories that guide business decisions and outcomes. These programs equip graduates to take on roles in the world of academia, such as research and teaching.

However, before you take the jump into your DBA or PhD, be sure to take time to thoughtfully consider your decision. Use your career goals as a guide, and take the time to research your options thoroughly. Seek out advice from peers in the field, and learn from the stories of others making an impact in the business world, like one Crummer Executive MBA student who has a strong passion for both business and academia.

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Is a DBA equivalent to a PhD?

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) are both doctoral degrees that carry significant prestige. However, they are not identical.

While both degrees confer the title “Doctor,” their goals and target audiences differ. While both the DBA and PhD are highly respected qualifications, they serve distinct purposes. The best choice depends on your career aspirations and academic interests.

Differences between a DBA and a PhD

Considering a DBA or PhD? Exeed College offers top-tier online programs in partnership with leading universities. Our doctorate degrees are designed to empower professionals like you to achieve your full potential. Choose the path that aligns with your career goals and make a significant impact in your field.

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Difference between a DBA, PhD and Doctorate in Management

EdD vs. PhD in Education

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DBA vs. PhD: What’s the Difference?

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How to Decide Which Type of Business Doctoral Degree to Pursue

PhD degrees are for people who are primarily interested in working in academia or as researchers. They aim to produce graduates who are ready to teach college-level courses in the field or conduct independent research.

Some students who enter a PhD program will have experience working in business and a master’s degree. Some PhD programs will admit students who only have a bachelor’s degree, and let them earn a master’s degree along the way—admissions requirements will vary by school.

PhD students will focus on business theory during their studies. In preparation for their dissertation—an original piece of research-based scholarship—they will conduct research that aims to offer new insight into how business is done, but not necessarily how to solve business problems.

PhD students typically spend five years completing their degree, and graduate ready to teach a college-level course in the field or to conduct research. Some PhD graduates may take on side work—for example, as a business consultant—but their main career roles will likely involve working at a college or university.

What Is a PhD, and Who Can Benefit?

PhD degrees  are for people who are primarily interested in working in academia or as researchers. They aim to produce graduates who are ready to teach college-level courses in the field or conduct independent research.

What Is a DBA, and Who Can Benefit?

A DBA degree focuses on producing highly qualified practical leaders with enhanced academic research skills. Graduates will leave their DBA program ready to continue their careers in business at an advanced level of leadership.

Because of the emphasis on practical application, most DBA students will enter their program after gaining several years of leadership experience in

business. Many of them will already hold a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or another business-related master’s degree, such as finance or accounting. Since many DBA students enter the program with a master’s, the time to completion is often shorter than a business PhD program. At University of the Potomac, for example, students can complete their DBA online in as few as three years.

Like PhD students, DBA students will conduct original research and produce a dissertation to earn their degrees. However, the focus of that research is very different: DBA students aim to solve specific problems that can be used in the real world immediately. Some DBA graduates may conduct research or teach as a side role, but their main career focus will involve direct work in business or consulting at the executive level.

To put it another way, the main difference between a PhD and a DBA is that PhD students want to describe how business is done, while DBA students want to change how business is done.

Are DBA Graduates in Demand?

DBA graduates are less common than MBA graduates, but the number of DBA graduates in the field is rising. The United States Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that there were 202,334 master’s degrees in business awarded in 2020-21 , making it the most popular field of study for all master’s degree students. In 2000-01, there were just 115,602 MBA graduates—a 175% increase since the start of the century.

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By contrast, the NCES reports that there were just 3,711 doctoral business degrees awarded in 2021-22. However, there were just 1,180 doctorates in business awarded in 2000-01, which means that the annual number of graduates has risen by 315% since the start of the century.

While DBA programs are less common than master’s degrees, they are beginning to be seen as a mark of dedication and a proven level of high problem-solving skills. Earning a DBA degree can demonstrate your commitment to your field and your ability to analyze and solve complex problems by applying theory in practice.

What Makes the UOTP DBA Program Stand Out?

Potomac’s DBA program offers experienced business professionals the opportunity to obtain a practical doctorate degree in a flexible, accelerated

format. Students can study online or on campus with us, benefiting from small classes led by industry-experienced faculty members.

As a proudly diverse institution, we also offer students a multicultural experience that can enhance their ability to collaborate across cultures —a key “soft skill” in today’s globalized business environment. We also provide our DBA students with the support they need for success, matching them with a faculty advisor who works with them at every stage of the dissertation completion process.

As a UOTP graduate, you’ll be ready to offer enhanced problem-solving and leadership skills to existing businesses, or be better prepared to launch your own venture—whatever option you pursue, you’ll have hands-on skills and research abilities few people in the job market can match.

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Learn more about the Potomac DBA program—and how to apply—by visiting our DBA program page. You can also contact our admissions department to learn more

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• The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Degree – A Guide

Written by Mark Bennett

Are you an experienced professional looking to enhance your leadership skills whilst developing new business strategies and solutions? If so, a Doctor of Business Administration could take your management career to the highest level.

The DBA is more than just a PhD in Business Administration. You won’t simply be developing new knowledge through academic research: you’ll be applying that knowledge to real-world business problems and documenting this process with your thesis.

This page explains how the DBA qualification works, who it’s intended for, what the entry requirements are and what you can expect from a course. We’ve also looked at some of the key differences bewteen a PhD and a DBA and an MBA vs PhD.

If you’d prefer to start looking at actual programmes, you can search for your ideal DBA project or programme right now.

On this page

What is a dba.

A Doctorate of Business Administration is a widely recognised professional doctorate degree in Business and Management. It is normally the highest level of qualification available in these fields.

Programmes typically combine discussion of advanced management theory and practice with training in the methodologies and techniques necessary to carry out doctoral research in Business and Management.

The DBA is equivalent to a PhD (and both award the title ‘Doctor’). But there are several key differences between the two qualifications.

In particular, a DBA usually incorporates more taught modules and practical training , rather than focussing purely on independent academic research.

In some respects a DBA is similar to an MBA (Masters in Business Administration) . However, the DBA involves more original research and analysis , feeding back into business theory and practice. Applicants also tend to be more senior professionals (and often already hold an MBA).

Where can I study a DBA?

Like the MBA, the DBA originated in North American education systems, but is now common across the UK, Europe and other parts of the world.

Programmes are often offered within specialised business schools , attached to larger research universities. Most are delivered through part-time distance learning, allowing students to continue with their careers whilst studying.

Doctor of Business Administration by distance learning

Some components of a DBA may take place on-campus. This is worth checking if you are considering distance learning for a DBA from a university that isn’t close to your home.

How much does a DBA cost?

Fees for a DBA are likely to be higher than for PhDs. This reflects the added cost of delivering taught units, often featuring contributions from prestigious academic and enterprise experts.

The structure of a DBA also means that fees vary across individual years of study . You will normally pay more during the first part of your programme, when you are receiving direct training and instruction. Fees are typically lower once you begin working more independently towards your doctoral thesis.

You can generally expect to pay in the region of the following:

• First phase of programme : £10,000-15,000 per year
• Second phase of programme : £2,000-5,000 per year

Please note that these figures are offered as a general indication only. They are based on typical fees for UK students studying in the UK.

Search for a DBA

Ready to start looking at available DBA degrees? You can view current DBA projects or DBA programmes now.

What funding is available?

The relatively high cost of a DBA can be offset through funding. There are three main avenues available:

• PhD loans – DBAs and other professional doctorates are eligible for UK doctoral loans . These will allow students to borrow up to £27,265 towards the cost of a PhD (or equivalent degree).
• University scholarships – Universities and business schools may provide merit-based funding to attract the best students to their programmes. The best way to find these opportunities is to view funded courses here on FindAPhD. You can also view a more selection of DBA programmes (along with other ‘taught’ professional doctorates) on FindAMasters .
• Research Council Funding - The UK Research Councils provide studentships for doctoral research . Occasionally, this support may also be available for professional doctorates.
• Support from employers / organisations – The DBA is designed to advance management careers to the highest level, whilst also generating actionable insights for real-world business practice. As such, your employer or the organisation you manage may regard the qualification as a worthwhile investment.

You can also look at more general information in our PhD funding section .

Are DBA programmes accredited?

As with MBAs, DBA programmes (and the business schools that offer them) are often externally accredited. This process provides a ‘hallmark’ of quality, but its absence doesn’t necessarily mean a programme (or school) is not high quality.

The three most prestigious accreditors are:

• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) – This North American body provides accreditation worldwide.
• The Association of MBAs (AMBA) – This UK body accredits specific programmes (as opposed to schools). It has recently begun accrediting DBAs as well as MBAs.
• The European Quality Improvement System (EQUIS) – This European body provides worldwide accreditation of business schools (much like the AACSB).

Schools are programmes that receive accreditation from all three of these organisations are referred to as being ‘triple-accredited’.

Generally speaking, a PhD requires a original contribution to knowledge, while a DBA students aim to apply research to professional practice.

In academic terms, a DBA is equivalent to a PhD . The qualification is a full doctorate and will allow you to use the title ‘Dr’.

The main difference between the DBA and the PhD is the content of the course and the way it is studied. Let's take a look at PhD vs DBA!

DBAs are only available in Business and Management subjects, while PhDs are offered in all subjects where academic research is carried out.

More general PhDs in Business and Management are available for students who wish to focus on academic research or don’t yet have the necessary professional experience for a DBA.

Research topics

When you do a traditional PhD, you’ll usually propose your own research topic (or apply to a pre-existing project) that aims to provide an original contribution to the subject area. DBAs, meanwhile, look at how research can be applied to a business problem.

DBAs involve a combination of taught units and independent research, while PhDs primarily consist of independent research.

Mode of study

It’s common for PhDs to be studied on both a part-time and full-time basis, depending on the circumstances of the doctoral candidates. However, it’s much more likely to do a DBA on a part-time basis, taking into account the professional obligations of the candidate.

Tuition fees

A DBA is considerably more expensive than a PhD, with annual fees of between £10,000 and £15,000 for the first phase of a programme. Find out more about the typical cost of a PhD .

Entry requirements

Most PhD programmes require candidates to have an undergraduate degree and a Masters in a relevant subject. DBAs, meanwhile, usually require applicants to have an MBA as well as several years of senior work experience.

Find out more about the difference between a DBA and a PhD

If we look at MBA vs DBA, both are designed for experienced management professionals. However, the DBA is a more advanced degree and awards a higher level qualification (for which an MBA may actually be an entry requirement).

The following table summarises the differences between the two degrees:

Who should study for a DBA?

DBA programmes are designed for senior executives or other business professionals with a track record in management and leadership roles.

As such, the Doctorate in Business Administration may be an appropriate qualification for you if:

• You are an ambitious senior manager, seeking to acquire the insight and expertise necessary to move into very senior roles .
• You are an experienced professional, seeking to refine your practical experience and insight in order to develop new business models and strategies through further research and analysis.
• You hold an MBA or other executive degree and wish to progress to the highest level of professional qualification in Business and Management.

Note that a DBA is not normally intended for students going straight into doctoral study after a Bachelors or Masters degree.

An MBA may be a better option for you if you are more interested in business practice than business theory, or if you wish to complete your degree more quickly.

It’s always possible to return to study a DBA later. In fact, a few business schools actually allow for progression from MBA to DBA within the same programme (candidates normally extend their period of study as they move on to doctoral research).

What are the entry requirements for a DBA?

Entry to a DBA will normally require extensive work experience in addition to relevant academic qualifications.

You should normally have:

• An MBA , or other relevant Masters degree .
• Significant professional experience , ideally in relatively senior leadership or management roles (most universities will specify a minimum of three years ).
• Evidence of a promising research project , related to the interests and expertise of the university or business school you are applying to.

Do you need an MBA to get a DBA?

Academic requirements can be flexible: you may be admitted to a DBA without an MBA (or other Masters) on the basis of significant professional experience.

DBA or MBA?

Wondering whether a Master of Business Administration may be a better degree for you? Check out a full MBA guide at FindAMasters.com.

Will I need a GMAT or GRE?

Academic admissions tests such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) aren’t usually necessary for a DBA application. Your professional experience (and previous qualifications) should be enough to confirm you have the necessary aptitude for a programme.

A GMAT or GRE score could be helpful if you don’t have an MBA, or if you wish to strengthen an application that may be slightly weak in one area.

Language requirements

DBA programmes are often highly international, drawing together exceptional management professionals from around the world. Most are delivered in English and evidence of proficiency may be required if this is not your first language.

What is the application process for a DBA?

To apply for a DBA you will normally need to submit some or all of the following:

• Evidence of your qualifications (as detailed above)
• A personal statement outlining your relevant work experience and explaining your interest in the DBA programme
• Appropriate academic and professional references (if requested)

In addition to these, you will need to submit a strong research proposal.

The DBA research proposal

In many ways your proposal will be similar to that for a more standard PhD:

You will need to demonstrate that your project is original (no one has researched this topic before), worthwhile (you will make a valuable and useful contribution to your field) and practical (you have the necessary skills and experience to complete this project and it is a good fit for the university you are applying to).

In addition, the research proposal for a DBA should normally draw upon your employment experience:

• It may relate generally to an area of professional practice you have been particularly interested and experienced in.
• It may attempt to overcome a challenge or solve a problem you have frequently encountered during your career.
• It may attempt to translate your practical experiences into a new business model or management theory, to be used by other professionals.

You can read more general advice in our guide to writing a successful research proposal for doctoral study.

Submitting your application

In most cases you should apply directly to universities for admission to a Doctorate in Business Administration. There will usually be a system for doing this online.

However, most institutions recommend that students make contact before applying . This helps ensure that your qualifications are suitable and your application is likely to be a good fit.

You should then follow the university’s guidelines as you submit your application and research proposal. Once your application has been processed you may be invited to an interview . This will help ensure you are the right candidate for the programme – and that you and your university are a good fit for each other.

Application deadlines

The deadline for a DBA application will often be more specific than it would for an academic PhD. This is because DBA programmes include timetabled modules as well as more flexible independent research.

The exact deadline will depend on the start-date for your degree:

• If your DBA commences in the spring (January / February) you should normally apply by the end of October, or early November.
• If your DBA commences in the autumn (September / October) you should normally apply by the end of May, or early June.

If in doubt check the specific details for your programme.

Finding and applying for a DBA

You can find details for advertised DBA projects here on FindAPhD. These will normally be opportunities for study and research in specific areas (often with funding attached).

Because the DBA is a professional doctorate, with a substantial taught component, we also list general DBA programmes on our sister-site, FindAMasters.

What’s it like to study for a DBA?

The DBA degree offers a fairly unique experience, combining advanced teaching, discussion and training with significant practical work and independent doctoral research.

The method of study for a DBA is also highly innovative. Because they are designed for practising professionals, most programmes are delivered through part-time distance learning , or online learning . This allows candidates to complete their course whilst still pursuing their careers.

How long is a DBA?

A DBA normally takes between four and six years to complete (on a part-time basis, through distance learning).

How will my programme be organised?

Most DBA programmes are split into two distinct sections:

• The first phase will follow a sequence of taught modules on specific topics. These will explore management theory and business practice as well as research methodologies and practical training designed to prepare you for your project.
• The second phase will focus on your independent research. During this period you will implement your research proposal and carry out a project leading to the production of a doctoral thesis .

What will I study?

Course content for the taught part of your DBA will be decided by your university, but you can normally expect to cover topics such as:

• Business and management theory - Advanced teaching and discussion exploring key theoretical issues and practical topics related to modern management, business practice and leadership.
• Research principles and philosophies - Grounding in effective Business and Management research principles, including key objectives, deliverables and organisational challenges.
• Research methods and design – Training in the expertise necessary to conceive, construct and carry out effective research projects in Business and Management, covering issues such as project management, data collection and research ethics.
• Contemporary issues and concerns – Analysis of the modern Business landscape, together with the challenges and opportunities currently being experienced by organisations.

Exact content will vary between courses, as will the balance between Business and Management theory and research training. The best way to get a more accurate sense of what a DBA might involve is view some programme details .

How will I study?

Most DBA programmes are part-time and take place primarily through distance learning, using online systems and resources. This is designed to allow you to complete your programme flexibly, whilst carrying on with your career.

Individual module delivery will occur through a combination of intensive workshops (usually lasting between one and three days) followed by a course of virtual seminars and tutorials.

The research phase of your degree will be more like a conventional PhD. You will work independently, but will have scheduled meetings (online, or face-to-face) with one or more designated supervisors .

How will my DBA be assessed?

The first part of your DBA will be assessed through coursework. You will complete assignments appropriate to each modules and these will be examined by your tutors, much like the work you would do for an academic Bachelors or Masters degree.

Assuming your work is satisfactory, you will then proceed to the independent research project that is required for a doctorate. As with a PhD, this will normally be assessed through a viva voce (a formal oral examination) during which you will defend your thesis in front of internal and external examiners.

Ready to start looking at available DBA degrees? You can view current projects or programmes now.

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If you’re wondering whether you should do a PhD, this page will walk you through a selection of the most common reasons for pursuing one, along with some of the benefits that a PhD can give you.

Getting ready to apply for a PhD? Our guides explain research proposals, references and entry tests for doctoral programmes.

Understand what a successful PhD research proposal needs to include and how to go about writing one for your project application.

Our guide explains how to contact a potential PhD supervisor to discuss your proposal or ideas with them before applying.

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Mark Bennett

Mark joined FindAPhD to develop our first ever advice articles in 2013 and now serves as our Director of Audience & Editorial, making sure our websites and information are as useful as possible for people thinking about Masters and PhD study. He has a PhD in English Literature from the University of Sheffield, as well as Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Kent and the University of South Wales.

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