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Online phd finance, are you wondering if an online ph.d. in finance is right for you looking for the best online ph.d. in finance programs this article features the top finance ph.d. programs available..

A Ph.D. in finance is the highest level of education you can complete in the field of finance. By pursuing an online PhD in finance, you’ll be prepared for some of the highest-level careers in the financial sector.

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Students will be exposed to advanced concepts in these programs. Some of the skills you can learn in an online Ph.D. in finance program include:

Data Analysis

Predicting and detecting changes in financial events is an essential skill for online PhD in finance students to have. They will need to organize huge amounts of information and explore vast amounts of data. Therefore, understanding data analysis is critical for staying up-to-date in the finance industry.

Communication Skills

Ph.D. in finance students need to learn to communicate effectively. Conveying complicated concepts or interacting with other professionals make such skills essential. In addition, they help people make thoughtful word choices and play a role in how knowledge is presented.

Critical Thinking Skills

Those with an online Ph.D. in finance are some of the top thinkers in the finance industry. Critical thinking skills are a big part of that. It’s essential to know how to sort through complex information.

And it is equally important to understand how to find practical solutions to problems. Many classes in advanced online PhD in finance programs teach critical thinking and research skills.

Analytical Software Skills

It’s more important than ever that finance PhDs understand today’s financial software.

Software in this industry is geared toward e-business, education, statistics, and more. Having strong knowledge of these programs will ensure you stay on top of things in the world of finance. And an online PhD in finance program can give you those skills.

Economics and Accounting Skills

During an online PhD in finance program, students learn advanced economics and accounting skills. These programs cover accounting processes in all areas of finance. That includes everything from executive-level roles to research positions.

Courses may cover topics in both global economics and the U.S. marketplace. And you will learn high-level skills like advanced financial statement analysis.

Management and Leadership Skills

Students in an online Ph.D. in finance program may also cover management skills. These skills will be necessary for leadership roles when managing personnel. No matter what position you fill, these “people” skills can help with communication in the professional world.

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What’s the difference between a Ph.D. in Finance and a DBA in Finance?

You can pursue two different doctoral routes if you aim for an online Ph.D. in finance. A doctor of business administration (DBA) or a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in finance are both options. Which one should you choose? It depends on your academic and career goals. Both are respected degrees that represent the highest level of academic achievement you can pursue. So what’s the difference?

Ph.D. in Finance

A Ph.D. in finance is an academic doctorate. For example, if you want to work in research or education, you would probably choose an online Ph.D. in finance. These programs tend to concentrate more on finance theories rather than practical applications. An online Ph.D. in finance is also focused on contributing to the field of finance with knowledge. PhDs in finance typically work in research centers or universities.

Doctorate in Business Administration in Finance

With a doctor of business administration degree in finance, you focus more on real-world finance and business topics. Unlike the online Ph.D. in finance, This degree is for those looking for a career in finance or consulting. Some DBAs do work in education. However, if you aspire to work with a Fortune 500 company or on Wall Street, for example, you would choose the Doctorate in Business Administration in Finance.

Related: TOP CAREERS FOR MASTER’S IN FINANCE DEGREES

Online PhD in Finance Methodology

For students who want to pursue an online PhD in finance, we have compiled a list of the top programs available. These programs have been selected for this ranking based upon a scoring system that considers the cost of tuition and length of the program. They are ordered from highest to lowest score.

All of the online PhD in finance programs are from nonprofit colleges. And each is accredited by a nationally recognized board. The listed tuition is from the school’s published prices and is based on yearly costs.

See also: For Profit vs. Non Profit Colleges: What’s the Difference? (nonprofitcollegesonline.com)

Best Online PhD in Finance: Students Before Profits

#1. Liberty University

Online Doctor of Business Administration – Finance

Lynchburg, virginia.

The first online PhD in finance program on our list is a 100 percent online Doctor of Business Administration–Finance degree. It is offered through Liberty University. Students in this program of study will work to expand their knowledge of business finance. Some of the topics in the program include:

• Managerial Finance
• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Investments & Derivatives
• Business Valuation
• Financial Management

Liberty has been ranked among the top online colleges in the nation by various publications. And this program is accredited by  ACBSP. The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs is an elite organization. Only three percent of business schools in the world have earned this accreditation. We find this is one of the best online PhD programs in finance.

You’ll need 60 credit hours to complete the program. Doctorate in Business Administration students can finish online in as little as three years, and tuition is quite reasonable. The school has frozen tuition rates for the past several years. The cost per credit hour for this online doctor of business administration program is only $595 for full-time students.

Online students can take full advantage of many online resources while pursuing the program. These include technical support, an online writing center, online tutoring, and more. Students are also encouraged to visit any of Liberty’s campuses and participate in the school’s clubs, activities, and events. Some of these include:

• The LaHaye Ice Center
• Equestrian Center
• Montview Bowling Alley
• The Gun Club
• Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $7,847

#2. University of Maryland

Online Doctorate in Business Administration

College park, maryland.

The University of Maryland offers an online doctor of business administration designed for working professionals. To complete this degree program, students must earn a total of 48 credits. UMGC is an excellent option for students who want to further their careers in finance. Students will study topics ranging from investment banking to econometrics and more. Topics include:

• Interpreting and Translating Management Theory in Practice
• Evidence-Based Research Methods
• Data Analytics in Practice
• Designing Evidence-Based Management Solutions
• Producing Original Management Ideas that Influence: Publishing and Conferencing 

Students are expected to have demonstrated leadership skills and management experience. There is a lot of writing involved in this program, so the school’s Graduate Writing Skills (ASC 601) is recommended. Applicants should be motivated and intellectually curious. Online students at UMGC can also take advantage of a wide range of services. These include:

• Academic advisors and success coaches
• Military & veteran support
• The UMGC Library
• Technical support Help Center  
• Writing center
• Lifetime career support
• One-on-one career planning and tools
• Global Campus student organizations

The University of Maryland has a wide range of grants, scholarships, and other financial assistance programs. Additionally, the school offers an interest-free monthly payment plan. UMCG is the second most affordable online PhD programs on our list.

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $9,072

Score: 99.75

#3. Kansas State University

Online Doctorate in Personal Financial Planning

Manhattan, kansas.

Kansas State University offers an online Doctorate in Personal Financial Planning. This program is designed to be completed in a hybrid format. While many of the courses are offered online, students must take some of them at the Kansas State University campus. These on-campus experiences consist of three consecutive summer residency sessions in Manhattan, Kansas. During these residencies, students in the personal financial planning program will build connections with their peers and instructors.

This is one of the only PhD in financial planning online programs in the country. A total of 90 credit hours are needed to complete the doctorate in personal financial planning. And the cost at Kansas State University is $635.60 per credit hour. Students can transfer up to 30 credit hours into the doctoral program. Some of the courses include:

• Estate Planning for Families 
• Insurance Planning for Families 
• Personal Income Taxation
• Financial Planning Case Studies 
• Introduction to Financial Therapy 
• Money and Relationships
• Applied Behavioral Finance
• Financial Therapy Theory and Research
• Financial Ethics and Mediation 

K-State uses Canvas for its online learning management system. Whether online or on-campus, you’ll get the same high-quality instruction. Students can complete this flexible personal financial planning degree program on their own schedule. You’ll do your weekly readings, discussions, and assignments at a time that is convenient for you. 

Online PhD financial planning students are invited to participate in commencement activities on campus. However, if you can’t make it to the University, a remote commencement ceremony is offered. In addition, online students can take advantage of all the services Kansas State University offers, including:

• Academic Advising
• Academic Coaching
• Student Access Center
• Writing Center
• Library Services

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $10,294

Score: 99.50

#4. City University of Seattle

Doctorate in Business Administration with Specialized Study Concentration

River forest, illinois.

The City University of Seattle offers an online doctor of business administration with a specialized study concentration. The concentration consists of 12 credits taken in a specific area of focus. Students can propose a particular industry to the program director. In this case, a student could transfer finance courses from another institution. They could also choose to do an independent study or choose from existing course offerings. Some of the courses include:

• Financial Decision Making
• Industry Analysis and Market Innovation
• Business Process Analysis and Strategic Management
• Quantitative Research Methods
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Research Fundamentals
• Organizational Development Theories and Trends
• Technology Implementation and Change Management
• Organizational Identity and Culture

This program consists of 91 credit hours and has no residency requirements. This is a very affordable Ph.D. in finance online at $765 per credit. City University students can expect to complete the program in three to four years. All of the school’s degree programs qualify for scholarships and financial aid. As a result, it is one of the top online finance PhD programs on our list. Additionally, the school offers many opportunities to connect with faculty members. These instructors are already working professionally in the field.

With this Ph.D. in finance online, students utilize Blackboard Collaborate Ultra. This allows for an interactive experience. You’ll interact together online with your classmates and instructors every other week. Other online services at City University of Seattle include:

• Library website
• Writing Center 
• Unlimited free tutoring through Smarthinking
• Technical help via Brightspace Help Desk and the Student Help Center
• Career counseling
• Mental health counseling

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Tuition: $11,812

Score: 99.25

#5. California Baptist University

Online Doctor of Business Administration 

Riverside, california.

California Baptist University has an Online Doctor of Business Administration program. Students can expect to complete this 56-credit-hour program in about three years. The courses in this program are delivered in an eight-week format. So students will study one course every eight weeks. This concentrated format ensures that students can devote all of their energies to learning one topic at a time. Some of the courses in this program include:

• Foundations of Organization and Management
• Ethics in Organizations and Management
• Financial Analysis for Decision Making
• Applying Economic Theory to Business
• International Finance
• Strategic Marketing
• Topics in Human Resource Management
• Research Design
• Data Analysis and Interpretation
• Quantitative Research
• Qualitative Research

Students at California Baptist University can take advantage of many exclusive services:

• Dedicated Personal Enrollment Counselor
• One-Stop Student Service Advisor
• Academic Success Center
• Smarthinking 24/7 Online Tutoring Support

Online Career Services  

CBU uses the Blackboard 9.1 learning platform. And they aim to employ the latest technologies in remote education. As a result, they have also been named one of the top online colleges by U.S. News and World Report. 

Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges 

Tuition: $13,590

Score: 99.00

#6. George Fox University

Online Doctor of Business Administration

Newberg, oregon.

This next program is one of the best finance Ph.D. programs available. George Fox University offers a hybrid Doctorate in Business Administration with two concentrations. Students can choose management or business analytics. Both programs introduce students to advanced finance concepts. So your choice will depend on your specific goals. George Fox has one of the best finance PhD programs on our list.

This online Ph.D. in finance requires two in-person sessions per year. So you’ll want to be sure your schedule allows for this. George Fox University estimates that students can complete this rigorous degree program in four to five years. The cost is $980 per credit hour before financial aid.

This program is ideal for working professionals. In addition, it’s beneficial for those who want to develop their financial knowledge further to advance their careers. The program itself is accredited by the ACBSP . Some of the courses you may take include:

• Leading in Organizations
• Foundations of Marketing
• Conceptual Foundations of Economics
• Conceptual Foundations of Finance
• International Business
• Business Analytics: Analytic Thinking and Decisions
• Seminar in Accounting
• Business Analytics: Descriptive Analytics and Forecasting
• Business Analytics: Applied Analytics and Predictions
• Business Analytics: Prescriptive Analytics and Modeling

This finance Ph.D. program functions around a cohort model. This model allows students to interact and network with their instructor and peers. This gives them a way to connect with other professionals across the country and even across the world. Online students have a variety of services at their disposal, including:

• Writing circles
• Academic Resource Center (ARC) 
• Career Services (IDEA Center) 
• Student Jobs on Campus (Handshake) 
• Athletics 
• Clubs 
• Spiritual Life Groups
• Music Ensembles 
• Student Publications 
• Theatre Performances 
• Bruin Community Pantry 
• Diversity Initiatives & Programs 
• Health & Counseling Center
• Intercultural Resource Center 
• Student Support Network 

Tuition: $14,158

Score: 98.75

#7. Johnson & Wales University

Providence, Rhode Island

Johnson & Wales University online Doctor of Business Administration degree program is one of the best finance programs on this list. Students enrolled in the program will develop the financial acumen for high-paying careers in finance. And they will be prepared for roles such as:

• Executive-level organizational leaders
• Industry innovators
• Consultants
• Policymakers

Additionally, for those pursuing a career in education, the Doctorate in Business Administration is recognized as a terminal degree. 

A total of 60 credit hours are needed to complete the program. It takes approximately three years to finish. Courses are offered in eight-week formats, which means students focus on only one topic at a time. That allows you to fully understand the material before moving on to the next learning area. This degree has definitely earned its spot among our top finance Ph.D. rankings. Courses in the program include:

• Contemporary Issues in Finance and Accounting
• Advanced Strategies in Organization Development
• Problems and Methods in Marketing Management
• Business Analytics and Intelligence
• Organizational Behavior
• Innovation and Change
• Contemporary Leadership Issues
• Leadership and Managing Large Scale Transformation

The program is offered in collaboration with JWU’s College of Business. It is entirely online with no residency requirements. 

Accreditation:   New England Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $14,706

Score: 98.50

#8. Franklin University

Online Doctor of Business Administration – Accounting

Columbus, ohio.

 Franklin University offers a 100 percent online Doctorate in Business Administration-Accounting degree. The program is designed to teach students to become problem-solving business leaders. While not a Ph.D. in Finance, you can customize this degree with several electives. This allows students to advance their knowledge of finance topics such as:

• Advanced Accounting
• Federal Income Tax
• Accounting Research and Analysis
• Financial Planning
• Enterprise Resource Planning
• Financial & Managerial Accounting
• Management Control Processes & Systems
• Introduction to Tax Research
• C-Corporation Taxation
• Enterprise Risk Analysis & Management

The program requires a total of 58 credit hours, and students can complete it in as little as three years. The cost per credit is $748. However, Franklin University offers many financial aid resources . These include scholarships, grants, and other forms of assistance. They also have installment payment plans and deferred tuition reimbursement.

Franklin has a generous transfer program as well. Doctoral students can transfer up to 24 credits. And the school will work diligently to ensure you maximize all the credits you can. 

Students studying finance online at Franklin have plenty of support services, too. All students have a personal advisor to help them one-on-one with questions or concerns. In addition, tutoring, writing help, research help, library services, and more are also available. 

Tuition: $16,080

Score: 98.25

#9. Cambridge College

Online Doctor of Business Administration – Quality Systems Management

Boston, massachusetts.

This next program is offered through the New England Institute of Business at Cambridge College. It’s an online DBA Administration Quality Systems Management degree. This online Ph.D. in finance is ideal for students who want to gain the knowledge and expertise to build a career in certain finance professions.

A total of 60 credit hours are needed to complete this program, and the cost is $658 per credit hour. Military members, first responders, and veterans are entitled to a discount. The school anticipates that students can complete the program in three years. Some of the courses related to finance in this program include:

• Financial Management and Fiscal Leadership
• Benchmarking, Reengineering, and Cost of Quality
• Business Analytics and Strategic Decision Making
• Innovation, Strategic Technologies, and Sustainability
• Business Operations and Supply Chain Management
• Strategic Management and Globalization

The online Doctorate in Business Administration has two required residency courses. Students must attend each of these in full. There is one four-day residency and one three-day residency. If you have special circumstances, you must notify the school in advance.

Students pursuing finance online are entitled to the same services as their peers on campus, including:

• Academic Support
• Center for Career and Professional Development

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education 

Tuition: $16,409

Score: 98.00

#10. Northcentral University

Doctor of Business Administration with a Specialization in Financial Management

San diego, california.

Northcentral University offers an Online Doctorate in Business Administration with several specializations. The one we’re discussing here is the financial management specialization. It’s a 48-credit-hour program designed to be completed entirely online.

This finance degree is a great option for students looking for an affordable Ph.D. in finance online. It is staffed by a 100 percent doctorate faculty. And you can complete the program in approximately 34 months. The entire program is asynchronous and starts every Monday. There are no residency or GRE/GMAT requirements. Topics in the financial management specialization include:

• Advanced skills in fiscal analysis, budgeting, and spending for public and private organizations
• Domestic and international finance
• Causes of fluctuations in interest and monetary exchange rates
• Advanced business financial decision models
• Investment selection techniques 
• How financial institutions generate earnings and manage risk
• Corporate Finance

At NCU, students can interact one-to-one with their professors. And they will receive personalized mentoring. The school has a Virtual Education Support Center where you can access plenty of resources. Plus, students studying finance online can take advantage of a Virtual Center for Health and Wellness.

Graduates of this program will be ready for a variety of careers. A few of those include:

• Financial Research Specialist
• Statistician
• Financial Analyst
• Budget Analyst
• Loan Officer
• Financial Manager
• Financial Planner
• Investment Banker

Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges

Tuition: $16,881

Score: 97.75

#11. Rutgers University

Online PhD in Management – Finance Concentration

Newark, new jersey.

Students at Rutgers University can enroll in the school’s Online Ph.D. in Management and choose a finance concentration. This program is one of the top finance Ph.D. programs on our list. And it’s ideal for working professionals who want to further their careers in finance. You’ll need to earn a total of 72 credits to complete the program. Courses include:

• Microeconomic Theory
• Optimization Models in Finance 
• Math Methods in Economics
• Introduction to Probability
• Stochastic Processes
• Game Theory
• Macroeconomics
• Modern Statistics
• Investments
• Accounting Theory I: Theory of Corporate Disclosures, Control, and Governance
• Floating Finance Seminar
• Econometrics 

This finance degree program is via the Department of Finance & Economics of Rutgers Business School. The business school is a member of AACSB International—The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. There are five research centers associated with this department:

• Blanche and Irwin Lerner Center for Pharmaceutical Management
• Center for Real Estate
• Center for Research in Regulated Industries
• Rutgers Financial Institutions Center
• Whitcomb Center for Research in Financial Services

Although not required, it’s a plus if you have a master’s in computer science, economics, or mathematics. However, if your background in finance or economics is limited, the school suggests taking an additional course. This would be the Master of Quantitative Finance course. While this doesn’t guarantee admission, it can benefit you in your studies. 

Tuition: $18,168

Score: 97.50

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Why Should You Pursue an Online PhD in Finance?

A doctoral degree in finance represents the highest academic level you can reach in college. And it puts you in an elite group of students. Only around 181,000 students earn a Ph.D. each year. You might think that is a lot. But over 800,000 students get their master’s degrees. And nearly two million students graduate with a bachelor’s degree every year. 

When you graduate with a Ph.D. in Finance online, you are considered an expert in the field of finance. Your credentials open up many possibilities for careers others can only dream about. You can also reach more of your personal and financial goals.

Are Online PhD in Finance Programs Legit?

When looking for the best school for PhD finance programs, one of your main concerns should be credibility. There are a few for-profit schools offering these degrees, but many of them have some shady practices . You should avoid these “diploma mills” at all costs. Many are not even accredited. 

You’ll want to look for programs offered at reputable nonprofit colleges and universities. Nonprofits can be public or private. And they invest all their earnings back into educational programs. Nonprofits do not exist to make money. At Nonprofit Colleges Online, we only feature universities and colleges that are not for profit. 

We also look for accreditation. Each of the schools we review is accredited by a national or regional accrediting body. Accreditation is crucial when looking for the best online Ph.D. in finance. When a school is accredited, it meets certain academic standards for rigor, quality, and other factors. In fact, some employers won’t even consider hiring a candidate who has not attended an accredited program. 

See Also: BEST ONLINE MASTERS IN FINANCE: STUDENTS BEFORE PROFITS AWARD

On-Campus vs. Online PhD in Finance Programs

Online PhD in Finance programs are getting more and more popular each year. But are they really as good as the on-campus versions? First, let’s look at a few things that are not different about pursuing an online degree program.

1. Online degree programs are just as academically rigorous as their on-campus counterparts.

You’ll focus on the same curriculum when studying online. You will take the same exams and quizzes. And you will complete the same research and assignments. 

2. Online PhD in Finance programs have the same esteemed instructors.

The online version of a Ph.D. program will almost always have the same faculty members. You can expect to meet the same respected professors and instructors that teach in the classroom.

3. Online PhD in Finance degrees look no different than those earned on campus.

Your degree will not specify that you earned it online. Instead, you will have the same diploma as students who attended an on-campus program. And only you will know you earned your degree online.

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What Is Different About Online Ph.D. in Finance Programs?

Online and on-campus Ph.D. programs have two significant differences—pace and schedule. When students attend on-campus programs, there are a specified number of courses to finish. Class begins and ends at a particular time, and assignments all need to be completed by a specific date. You usually can’t go at a faster pace since everyone is taking the course at once. And if you lag behind, you may fail the course or have to complete it again.

With online programs, there is much more flexibility. For example, you’ll have the same number of courses and the same assignments, lectures, readings, etc. But you can usually progress at your own pace. When taking online courses, you don’t need to show up to class at a specific time. You can log in and complete your assignments whenever it is convenient.

Related: BEST ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN FINANCE/ECONOMICS: STUDENTS BEFORE PROFITS AWARD

How Many Years Does It Take to Earn a Ph.D. in Finance?

The credit hours needed for earning an online Ph.D. in finance can vary significantly. Often, it depends on the school you choose and how rigorous the program is. The number of credits can be between 50 to 90, with 60 being about average. For full-time students, most online doctoral programs can be finished in three to four years. 

This concludes our ranking of the top online PhD in finance degree programs.

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Top 50 Online Doctorates in Business Administration 2019

Business administration is a term that can refer to many different professional tracks, including management positions in corporations and enterprises. A PhD in Business or Finance or a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) is the highest level of education someone can get in this field. As the economy grows, and global enterprise becomes more common, so does the field of business administration and management itself (and the average business administration salary, too).

Recommended Doctorates In Education

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics suggests a growth of 8% by the year 2026, for top executives, or those in the C-suite (CEOs, CFOs, COOs, etc). As for Business professors, often the highest paid faculty positions in postsecondary education, they should expect a 15% increase in job opportunities in the same time frame. As long as there is finance, trade, and commerce in the U.S., they will need skilled leaders to guide corporations and future business people in successful business operations. With all of those responsibilities, finding an excellent online DBA program should not be the hardest part of this job. Luckily Online PhD has made it easier. The following is the largest and most comprehensive list of Online Business DBAs and business PhDs found anywhere on the web.

What do Business Administrators do with their Doctorate degree?

People interested in a doctorate in business administration are usually those among the top executives in their companies, who have been in the field for up to a decade and looking to stay on the cutting edge. They may also be business people turned educators, or teacher tycoons, hoping to impart their smarts onto the next generations of first-rate financiers. Whatever the case, the online Doctorate in Business Administration degree will take accomplished business people to the top of their professional potential. The Wall Street Journal suggests that terminal degrees in business (Ph.D.s and DBAs) are becoming more common, and even suggested, to non-academic professionals, where these jobs were historically reserved for those with more years in the practice of business than in the classrooms of business. Doctorates in specialized areas like marketing and finance are even becoming more common. 

People who thrive in this position are driven, capable, and personable. Running a successful company often means possessing qualities that cannot be taught. Often successful managers and administrators are good at what they do, based on having skills in leadership and smart-risk taking. They are often  goal-oriented and expose themselves to as much information in their field they can get their hands on. They are able to synthesize information and find a clear path towards success. They are not thrown off track by failure, rather embracing it as an opportunity to learn more and grow. Many of these traits come naturally to people, but what can be learned, a  business administration courses will try to teach. 

Business School Online? What’s the catch?

These days, achieving an online business degree is as legit as getting the same degree any other way. An online Executive Doctorate in Business Administration, for instance, means your learning schedule will take into account your needs to continue running your business. With the rise in the use of technology for business, many on-campus business schools utilize the computer for the majority, if not all of the coursework. Why do the same work in the same room on campus, when you could be at home just as well? Many of these low residency and hybrid business administration schools meet on weekends, or for residencies throughout the year, leaving ample time to continue your professional career. The fully online business administration schools can be completed entirely from your home or office, without disrupting your current life flow at all. The Doctorate in Business Administration degree, the PhD in Finance or Business Leadership degrees featured on this list each take from 2-4 years to complete . Many schools’ business programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business or  AACSB, which is the gold standard in business education accreditation.

Programs in the Top 50 Doctorate in Business Administration and Management PhD Programs are ranked by institutional costs, as reported by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), the schools’ Niche Score from Niche.com, and the average salary of alumni, 10 years later from Scorecard.ed.gov.

1 . Baruch College – Manhattan, NY

Bernard M. Baruch College is a member of the City University of New York and is a public research university located in Manhattan. Originally founded in 1847 as the Free Academy, Baruch was the first institution to offer free college in the United States. It is now considered a senior college, meaning it offers four-year coursework, as opposed to the first two undergraduate years of the offered at the junior college level. Students can choose between undergraduate and graduate programs in three schools; the Zicklin School of Business, the Marxe School of Public and International Affairs, and the Weissman School of Arts and Sciences, which offers more than 40 majors and minors. The Division of Continuing and Professional Studies is available to students seeking certificates and other non-degree programs.

Executive Doctorate in Business from the Zicklin School of Business is a 3-year professional degree that is designed for top executives with more than 7 years experience in the field. With a finger on the pulse of a corporate executive’s life, meetings and courses are held just 25 hours per semester. The 4-day residencies feature full-day classes and are held three times per semester, optimizing the amount of time students can spend developing relationships with their cohort and faculty. Students are also required to attend 20 hours per semester of formal distance learning. There is no residency requirement for attendance, which means minimal disruption to the students’ work and lives. The first year of the program focuses on research methods, the second on Econometric Methods, and the third and final semester on leadership and strategic planning.

Degree: eDBA Cost: $ $$$$

2. Oklahoma State University – Stillwater, OK

Oklahoma State University was originally known as Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College when it was established in 1890. Its campus is located in the town of Stillwater, Oklahoma. It is a public research institution that is known for its athletic heritage, and their large-scale homecoming celebrations which date back to 1913. The U.S. News and World Report has ranked them number 66 among Top Public Schools: National Universities. OSU offers over 200 degree programs from six distinct colleges; these include the comprehensive Spears School of Business, which has seven departments of its own including Department of Finance, Department of Management, Department of Marketing, Department of Economics & Legal Studies, and the Department of Management Science and Information Systems.

Oklahoma State University offers an exclusive PdD Program in Business , designed for Executives. The fact that it is tailored to professionals is important to the accessibility of the coursework for students who are engaged in professional level careers and are wanting to move up the ladder. The “executive format” means that students are only required to attend residencies four days per month for 10 months per year, with additional learning objectives to be met online. Eight courses make up the core curriculum, and the topics include research methods, macro and micro organizational issues, innovation, creativity, and qualitative and quantitative mixed methods.

Degree: Executive DBA Cost: $$ $$$

3. The University of South Florida – Tampa, FL

The University of South Florida is a public university located in The Tampa Bay area of Florida. They offer undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. USF is a member of the USF System, which includes three separate schools; USF, USF Sarasota-Manatee, and St. Petersburg. This four-year university has an annual research budget of over $415 million. USF has 14 distinct colleges to choose from. Together they offer over 180 undergraduate majors. As a high-impact, global research university, USF is committed primarily to student success. The school was founded in 1956, and they currently serve nearly 50 thousand students each year.

The Muma College of Business at THe University of South Florida offers a comprehensive DBA (Doctorate of Business Administration) program designed for executives with extensive experience working in the field of business. Students move through the length of the program as a cohort. Each cohort engages in the same coursework, which will vary among the cohorts at any given time. The curriculum builds on life experience and engages in quantitative and qualitative research strategies. Students are encouraged to tailor their research topics to their personal and professional interests as they prepare for their dissertations. The University of South Florida offers a DBA that prepares students to enter the realm of academia or executive business.

Degree: DBA Cost: $ $ $$$

4. Florida International University – University Park, FL

Florida International University is considered a metropolitan public research institution, with its main campus located in University Park, Florida. They were established in 1965 after many years of planning and bringing this vision to fruition. Originally, the building they acquired, which was at the site of a former airport, had no telephones, furniture, or even drinking water. Currently, they are known for their high level of research and are classified by the Carnegie Foundation as having the Highest Research Activity. FIU is one of the 12 campuses that make up the State University System of Florida, and they are one of the states graduate universities. Ninety percent of the student population is from the state of Florida.

Florida International University FIU Business School offers a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program exclusively designed for senior level working professionals. The organization of the coursework is such that participants will not have to sacrifice their current careers in order to be successful students, even though it is rigorous. The hybrid format that synthesizes online learning with a face-to-face experience engages professional students through 72 credit hours of coursework. The program should take three years to complete. Graduates will walk away from the program with cutting-edge skills that include in-depth problems solving related to business issues, as well as leadership and managerial practice that can elevate career potential exponentially.

5. Kansas State University – Manhattan, KS

In Manhattan, Kansas, Kansas State University was born. In 1863, it became the state’s first institution of higher learning, enrolling its first students in the midst of the American Civil War. Known colloquially as K-State, they also have branches campuses in the towns of Olathe, and Salina, Kansas. They are known by the Carnegie Foundation as a hub for the highest level of research. Currently, they have made a name for themselves as a provider of extensive online programming through their Global Campus that was established over 50 years ago. Their online classes are facilitated by the same renowned on-campus faculty. They are also known for their affordability.

The Global Campus at Kansas State University offers multiple online PhD Programs including a Personal Financial Planning Doctorate . This multi-faceted program enables students to gain the skills to be faculty at postsecondary institutions, or choose a career path as a personal financial advisor, among many other opportunities. The curriculum is delivered in a hybrid model, enabling students to complete most of their coursework online, while getting in face time at 10-day on-campus intensive residencies during three consecutive summers. Each student will write a dissertation and participate in a capstone project. The final semester of the program gives students the chance to study abroad, and learn about global market systems first hand.

Degree: PhD Finance Planning Cost: $$ $$$

6. Temple University – Philadelphia, PA

Naturally, when Temple was incorporated as a University, their mascot became the owls. Currently, they serve over 40,000 students with over 500 academic programs, not just in Pennsylvania, but also in Rome, Italy, and Tokyo, Japan, as well as extensive online offerings. They are known internationally as a provider of high-quality professional education.

The Fox School of Business at Temple University offers a Doctorate in Business Administration program that is delivered in a hybrid format. The classes are primarily delivered online with a select number of on-campus residences throughout the three-year program. The course of study was designed for senior level executives and professionals who are interested in achieving a doctor of business administration salary and transforming the business environment. Students will learn how to get to the bottom of complex business-related problems and fine-tune solutions. Each participant will tailor their research to individual interests and goals for their career path.

Degree: DBA Cost: $$ $$$

7. UNC Charlotte – Charlotte, NC

The University of North Carolina – Charlotte was founded in 1946, after the city fought for a public institution of higher education since 1871. At that time, the nearest university was 90 miles away in Greensboro. Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, UNC sits in the University City neighborhood on nearly 1,000 acres of land. They have an additional Research Institute Campus, called the Charlotte Research Institute, on 100 acres just off the main campus. Located in the first ward of uptown, Charlotte, is the Center City Campus, which has a focus on evening and business courses. Their emphasis is on adult learners, specifically urban city workers.

University of North Carolina Charlotte offers a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) program that follows a low-residency model. Students will come to campus for one long weekend per month, and the rest of the coursework will be completed online, over a three year period. Prospective students must first have a master’s degree in order to qualify for the program, as well as extensive work experience, between 5-10 years. This course of study is rigorous, so commitment and drive are weighed heavily in the application process. The residencies provide students exceptional networking opportunities, both within the program and in the city of Charlotte, the #3 financial city in the country.

8. Grand Canyon University – Phoenix, AZ

Grand Canyon University was established in 1949 as a liberal arts institution, with non-profit status. Their campus is located in Phoenix, Arizona. In 2004, they were bought by Grand Canyon Education Incorporated, and have since been operating as a Christian university. They are classified by the Carnegie Foundation as offering a moderate level of research within their eight unique colleges. They have many program offerings, including undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees in science, liberal arts, Christian theology, and healthcare, among many others. They are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and are in the process of returning to non-profit status.

Grand Canyon University is home to one of many DBA online programs, which is offered by their college of Doctoral Studies. They offer three DBA programs online with distinct specialties, including Marketing, Management, and Data Analytics. All of the programs provide students with the underpinnings to develop evidence-based practices and theories. Students will engage at the cutting edge of the global economy, and learn to meet the current demands. Career outcomes enable powerful transformative work within a variety of financial institutions, including within academic settings, as well as corporate and private. Students will also have a comprehensive framework and research methodologies for capital markets and market investments, as well as microeconomic foundations.

9. University of Missouri-St. Louis – St. Louis, MO

Located in St. Louis, Missouri, the University of Missouri-St. Louis was founded in 1963 and is one of the four institutions that make up the University of Missouri System. It is the most recent addition to the system. They pride themselves on a low student to faculty ratio of 16:1. Their International Business Undergraduate program was ranked 7 times in the top 20 of comparable schools. In 2010, they ranked 15th. The campus has two Metrolink Light Rail stations on campus, and students can take it between the north and south campuses. They have an active student life, including clubs and organizations, as well as six sororities and fraternities on campus.

The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers a (DBA) Doctor of Business Administration Program that is cohort based and delivered over a three year period. There is a three weekend per term residency requirement, giving students the opportunity to engage with their cohort and faculty face-to-face, though the majority of discussions will take place online. During the first two years of the program, students will be steeped in business and management methodology and strategy. The third year will be focused on the student’s dissertation and research. The program is fully accredited for both Accounting and Business by the AACSB, which helped make this business school among the top 5 percent of the globe.

10. Florida Institute of Technology – Melbourne, FL

Florida Institute of Technology, commonly referred to as Florida Tech, was founded in 1958. Its original name was Brevard Engineering College, and it was established for the purpose of supporting NASA. Currently, they are located in the small city of Melbourne, Florida, on a 130-acre campus, just beside the Orlando-Melbourne International Airport. The stretch of the Atlantic Ocean that they are located on is considered the Space Coast region. Their student body consists of just under 5,000 students both undergraduate and graduate, all of which have a primary focus on the sciences and engineering. They have many graduate studies programs that are administered at a variety of off-campus sites.

The Florida Institute of Technology offers a Doctor of Business Administration degree program that is geared towards professional students. Applicants must have first completed a minimum of five years experience in a professional leadership role, in order to develop the executive skills that the program promotes. The coursework will be completed in the first two years of the program, and the third and final year will enable students to focus on experiential learning in the field while conducting research and writing their dissertations. There is an emphasis on cohort learning, as throughout the program students will meet each semester with their cohorts to collaborate and network.

Degree: DBA Cost: $$$$ $

11. Creighton University – Omaha, NE

Creighton University was established in 1878, and was willed by Mary Lucretia Creighton, in honor of her late husband. It was founded by the Society of Jesus, as a Jesuit Catholic Institution. Their campus is located on a 140-acre piece of land, just outside of Omaha, Nebraska’s downtown business district. It is a member institution of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. They are accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. Their student body consists of just under 8,500 undergraduate and graduate students. They are the home to seven distinct schools and colleges.

Creighton University offers a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) Program that was explicitly designed for students who are interested in achieving a tenure track position at a teaching university or college. Uniquely, they infuse their Jesuit, Catholic foundation into their business education, giving students opportunities for complex Ignatian reflection. The course of study is delivered in a hybrid model, specifically with students in mind who would like to continue working full-time. In the first two years, students will be required to attend eight weekend long residencies, while the rest of the program is delivered online. The cohort model gives students embedded peer support, an invaluable resource in any doctoral program.

12. Drexel University – Philadelphia, PA

Drexel University was founded in 1891, as a private research school. Their primary campus is located in the University City District of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. They underwent many name changes since their inception and began as Drexel Institute of Art, Science, and Industry. They have over 100 doctoral and master’s programs, as well as close to 70 bachelor’s programs. Their total enrollment is over 26,000 students. In 1996, Drexel began offering internet-based learning opportunities, which led them to establish a virtual campus called Drexel University Online. In 2012 they established a site in Washington DC, which is where their online education programming is headquartered.

Drexel University offers an Executive Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) Degree Program . This dynamic program was designed to serve senior managers and executives with the equipment to solve complex business-related problems, utilizing research techniques, analysis, and critical knowledge. The cross-disciplinary study is a feature of the program, as well as experiential learning opportunities that enable students to apply their skills to real-world situations. Students can complete the program in 2 and a half years. The program utilizes a blended format featuring online learning mixed with on-campus residencies. Each student will have their own dissertation mentor, helping them tackle their research and dissertation experience.

Degree: DBA Cost: $$$$$$

13. University of Dallas – Dallas, TX

The University of Dallas was founded in 1956, as a private regional independent Roman Catholic college. They are known for being the home to a conservative value system and offering a world-class education steeped in Catholic Orthodoxy. Their 744-acre urban campus is located in the town of Irving, Texas. They pride themselves on an 11:1 student to faculty ratio, and offer intimate classes with a promise of personal attention. They have many master’s and doctoral programs. The undergraduate enrollment is just above 1,300 students, and graduate students make up just over 1,000. They have a campus in Southeast Rome, where many students spend a semester studying.

The University of Dallas offers a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program , administered in a blended format. Because the program was designed to accommodate working professionals, much of the coursework is online, with some classroom learning requirements as well. Students will learn how to develop evidence-based tools to improve business and organizations. The goal of the program is to support career and leadership development for professionals who already have a significant amount of work experience. The program can be completed in three years, with a requirement of 61 credit hours. This is the only AACSB accredited DBA program in the giant state of Texas!

Degree: DBA Cost: $$$ $$

14. University of Wisconsin – Whitewater, Wisconson

The University of Wisconsin – Whitewater was founded in 1868, and is a four-year public school. They were originally designed to be a Normal School, in service of training teachers. They are located in the town of Whitewater, Wisconsin on a rural campus. As one of the schools that comprise the University of Wisconsin System, they are in good company in one of the biggest academic systems in the country. Their total enrollment is closer to 12,000 students, and they have over 1,000 courses that cross many disciplines. Students come from 40 different states and 30 different countries to attend UWW.

The University of Wisconsin – Whitewater offers a Doctorate of Business Administration Program (DBA) . This course of study is geared towards professional students who are interested in achieving a tenure-track academic position or working with high executive status in the business world. The program is known for being one of few in the country with AACSB Accreditation. This is a 60-credit hour program that utilizes the cohort model for peer engagement and learning. Students will attend face-to-face classes one weekend per month for the first two years of the program and then spend their final year focusing on their dissertation research and writing.

15. Pepperdine University – Los Angeles, CA

Pepperdine University is a private research institution established in 1937, during the Great Depression. They are connected to the Churches of Christ. Their 830-acre campus is right beside Malibu, in unincorporated Los Angeles, California. It is privy to a gorgeous view of the Pacific Ocean. The US News and World Report ranked Pepperdine 65th among their top Business Schools. It is often described when people are talking about the most beautiful campuses in the country. They have two graduate campuses, which include the Graziadio Business School and the Graduate School of Education and Psychology, both of which are situated in West Los Angeles.

Graziadio Business School at Pepperdine University a low residency Doctorate Program in Business Administration (DBA) . This program is geared towards business professionals who are wanting to take the next step in their career. This is the only AACSB accredited DBA program in the Western Region of the country. Each student has access to one-on-one guidance with their faculty team to support their research. In the first year, students will be required to attend 3, week-long residencies. In the second year, on top of these residencies, they are required to attend a DBA Conference. In the third and final year, conference participation is required along with research and dissertation defense.

Degree: DBA Cost: $$$$$

16. Baker University Online – Baldwin City, KS

Established in 1858, Baker University was founded and named after Methodist and Bible scholar Osman Cleander Baker. It is a private Christian College situated in the town of Baldwin City, Kansas on a ten-acre campus. It is comprised of four distinct schools, including the College of Arts and Sciences, and the School of Education. Total enrollment is close to 3,000 students for all of its programming. Student life has been active since the school first opened their doors, and greek life dates back to 1865. In the 1970s Alpha Kappa Alpha became initiated the first historically black Greek organization to set up shop at Baker University.

Among Baker University’s online PhD programs in their Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) Program. In this DBA online program, students will engage in a dynamic educational experience that synthesizes online classes, professional residencies, research, and a culminating dissertation. Graduates of the program will have access to a whole new career realm following the program, from academic to the professional business sector, including CEO and CMO status. The entire program should take students three and a half years to complete, making up 60 credit hours. Students will choose between one of five specializations including leadership, human resources, finance, marketing, and management information systems, or they can design their own course of study.

17. DePaul University – Chicago, IL

DePaul University was established in 1898, by the Vincentians. They were named after the French priest from the 17th century named St. Vincent DePaul. They are located in the downtown financial district of Chicago, Illinois. DePaul is a commuter school, in fact, 90% of their students live off campus or commute. Total undergraduate enrollment is close to 16,000 and graduate is near 7,600, including law students. They have a suburban campus in the town of O’hare, separate from the two urban locations in the Lincoln Park neighborhood and the Loop of Chicago. Their Driehaus College of Business has been open since 1913.

The Driehaus College of Business & Kellstadt Graduate School of Business offers at DePaul University offers a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) program. The course design includes monthly, two-day residencies on campus, for nine months per year, and students can complete the program in three years. The residency structure was designed with commuter professionals in mind, enabling students to participate in the program who live anywhere in the country. The program is designed for executive potential students who have a master’s degree and have been working in a business related profession for 8-10 years. The program is fully accredited by the AACSB.

18. Georgia State University – Atlanta, GA

Georgia State University is a public research school that was established in 1913 and initially was founded as a night school. Their original name was Georgia School of Technology’s Evening School of Commerce. In the 1930s there was a major reorganization of the University of Georgia System, in which Georgia State University is one of four schools. At the time they became the Atlanta Extension Center of the University of Georgia. This change allowed students to begin getting degrees from many of the colleges within the state system. They have grown exponentially since their early days. Currently, they are classified as an R1 school, indicating that they conduct a high level of research as noted by the Carnegie Foundation.

Georgia State University offers an Executive Doctorate in Business Program through the J. Mack Robinson College of Business. The program was built specifically for business executives who have years of experience in the industry. Throughout the program students will engage with research methodologies in relation to leadership, global perspectives, practical problem solving and decision making. The program is three years in length and requires students to be on campus for 24, Thursday through Saturday residencies. This flexible model allows students to continue working in their careers if they choose while completing the program. Each student will receive one-on-one guidance from a faculty member to complete their dissertation.

19. University of the Incarnate Word – San Antonio, TX

The University of the Incarnate Word was founded in 1881 by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. They traveled to San Antonio on a mission to treat cholera during a catastrophic outbreak in 1881. The school was originally created to be an all women’s institution for higher learning, though they have since become co-educational. Their primary location is in the Alamo Heights neighborhood of San Antonio, Texas, which is on 154 acres of land. They have maintained their Catholic denomination, identifying this as the basis of their educational integrity. They have an all-girls high school on site, as well as a co-educational high school called St. Anthony Catholic High School.

The University of the Incarnate Word offers many online PhD programs, including a DBA online . This Doctor of Business Administration builds on the experience of incoming students, all of whom will have years of executive business practice under their belts. Prospective students should also have completed a business related masters degree or the equivalent. The program can be achieved entirely online, or students choose to engage in a hybrid format which utilizes online asynchronous learning methods, as well as face-to-face and synchronized online learning. Students in the program will graduate with a comprehensive framework for business operations and management leadership.

20. Pace University – New York, NY

Pace University was established in 1906, as a private, as a co-educational business school. Their primary campus is situated in the heart of New York City, giving students access to the global business hub of the world. They are within walking distance to Wall Street and the World Financial Center, as well as Little Italy, and Chinatown. They have two additional campuses in White Plains, and Pleasantville, New York. Under the Pace umbrella are Pace University High School, as well as a women’s justice center located in Yonkers, New York. They also own two business incubators.

The Lubin School of Business at Pace University offers online PhD programs, including their Doctor of Professional Studies, Executive Doctoral Program (DPS) . Graduates of the program are in line to make a Doctor of Business Administration salary while learning all of the skills to move forward with senior management. Graduates of the program will also be well poised to kickstart an academic career or begin an independent consulting firm. The structure of the program makes it so students do not have to interrupt their careers in order to be successful in the program, as the embedded flexibility makes it possible to multitask.

Degree: DPS Cost: $$$$ $

21. University of South Alabama – Mobile, AL

It was initiated by the State Legislature of Alabama by the Alabama State Legislature in May of 1963. Located in Mobile, Alabama, their ten distinct schools are situated on a1,224-acre campus, including their two medical schools that are state supported. They have granted over 80,000 degrees since their inception, and current enrollment is close to 16,000 students. They offer many undergraduate and master’s degrees, and also several doctoral degrees in disciplines such as nursing, business administration, basic medical science, audiology, marine sciences, physical therapy, and psychology.

The University of South Alabama offers a Doctor of Business Administration degree program that engages an executive format, meaning students can continue working in their careers as they complete this rigorous course of study. The program design includes on-campus residences throughout the first two years of the program, as well as all of their qualifying exams. A third and final year is dedicated to research and dissertation writing with plenty of support from faculty. The program lasts 36 months from start to finish. Students can choose to concentrate on Marketing or Management. The faculty all hold doctorate degrees and are leading researchers and educators in the field of business.

22. Saint Leo University – Saint Leo, FL

Saint Leo University is a liberal arts university that was established within the Roman Catholic tradition. They were founded in 1889 when a former chief justice of the Arizona Territory became the owner of 10,000 acres of land in the state of Florida and chose to create a Roman Catholic colony. This colony is now Saint Leo University. The university is connected to the Holy Name Monastery, as well as a Benedictine Convent. Saint Leo is among the five biggest Catholic post-secondaries in the nation with a total enrollment that spills just over 13,000. The US News and World Report named them one of the Best Regional Universities in the South, as well as one of the Best Value Universities.

Saint Leo University offers a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program that provides professional students an opportunity to engage research methodologies to critically engage with functional areas of business. Students will learn and practice creating a discourse that is relevant to the field, furthering the business industry with their intellectual and original contributions. Students will have a variety of support systems to create a dissertation that follows Saint Leo’s lead in ethical foundations and critical thinking. Students will have practice both teaching and consulting through experiential learning practices that will provide necessary real-world experiences. The entire program is 57 credit hours in length.

23. Capella University – Minneapolis, MN

Capella University was established in 1993 and is owned by the Capella Education Company. Their original name was The Graduate School of America and was renamed in 1997 when they gained regional accreditation. They are known for online education delivery and offer over 142 degree programs to both undergraduate and graduate students, as well as 24 specially designed certificate programs. In total, they have over 1,600 classes to choose from. Their total enrollment is over 36,000 students from all over the world, who hail from all 50 states. Initially, Capella had an open enrollment policy that required students to only have a high school diploma or a GED to matriculate, but that changed in 2010 when they tightened up their admissions process.

Capella University offers a Doctorate of Business among their online PhD Programs . This DBA online is through Capella’s School of Business and Technology. Students may transfer up to 12 credits from their previous education. The course of study was designed to be flexible to accommodate professional students. Though the coursework is primarily delivered online, students will attend two residencies that will allow them to more deeply engage with faculty and peers. There are several specializations that allow students to focus their studies, including human resources management, global operations and supply chain management, accounting, business intelligence, information technology management, project management, leadership, and strategy and innovation.

Degree: DBA or PhD Cost: $$ $$$

24. Rollins College – Winter Park, FL

Rollins College was established in 1885 as a liberal arts college and is known for being the oldest institution for higher learning in the state of Florida. Since its inception, they have been nonsectarian and independent, as well as co-educational, all of which were rare for those times. Rollins’ campus sits on 80 acres of land in the town of Winter Park, Florida, which brushes the edge of Lake Virginia. They offer just over 30 undergraduate majors and many graduate programs. Total enrollment is near 2,700 students, with a faculty and staff that amounts to nearly 200 members. The US News and World Report ranked them number 2 among regional universities.

Rollins College offers an eDBA (Executive Doctor in Business Administration Program) that utilizes that cohort model. Students will have to be on campus only two days per month for the first two years, which enables those who do not live in Central Florida to successfully participate in the program without leaving their current jobs. The third year will be focused on dissertation work and the included research. Classes in the residency are delivered like seminars, meaning students should not expect lectures, but be prepared to engage in depth facilitated discussions based on course texts and prompts. Graduates will be well poised for organizational leadership.

Degree: eDBA Cost: $$$$ $

25. George Fox University – Newberg, OR

George Fox University was founded in 1885 as a school that centers disciplines of liberal arts and science. They are a private institution with a Christian foundation that is explored in all of their programmings. Their founders were Quakers. They are located on a 108-acre campus in the town of Newberg, Oregon. They are participants in the Richter Scholar program, which supports generally 20 students to conduct original research in their field. They are a full member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities. Students are required to sign a lifestyle agreement and regularly attend church and subsequent gatherings.

George Fox University offers a DBA online, among their online PhD programs . This Doctor of Business Administration Program gives students to option to study at their Oregon based campus. The program is unique in that it facilitates a Christ-centered approach to business education, that continually integrates Christian values and ethics. Though the format is primarily online, there is a minimal residency component, requiring students to be on campus twice per year. The face-to-face time enables students to connect with their cohorts and faculty members, ensuring they get the necessary support to be successful. Graduates of the program have just opened doors for positions in academia and business leadership, as well as consulting.

26. Jacksonville University – Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville University was established in 1934, initially as a two-year college known as Jacksonville Junior College. In 1959, after much effort, they became a four-year degree granting institution. Their campus is located in Jacksonville, Florida. Currently, they offer more than 70 majors and minors for undergraduate students and close to 30 graduate programs. Their total enrollment is close to 4,200. A thousand of these are postgraduate students. They are divided into two distinct institutes and four colleges, which include The Davis College of Business and The College of Arts and Sciences, as well a Marine Science Research Institute. They are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, as well as the AACSB.

Jacksonville University offers a Doctor of Business Administration through their Davis College of Business. Classes for this program are offered one weekend per month on campus for the first two years. The third and final year of the program will be focused on dissertation research and writing. Throughout that last year students will meet regularly with their dissertation committee, and work with guidance at their own pace. They are designed to support research and critical idea development. The program engages the cohort model, and cohorts are made up of 14-20 students. Many students choose a dissertation that can be applicable to their current job.

27. Felician University – Lodi and Rutherford, New Jersey

Felician University was established in 1942 and was originally called the Immaculate Conception Normal School, as named by their founders the Felician Sisters. They are a private Catholic university, situated on two campuses in Lodi and Rutherford, New Jersey. Their campuses are close to three miles apart with a shuttle that regularly runs between the two. Both sites are just over 12 miles from New York City. They have close to 500 graduate students enrolled, and 2,000 undergraduate. On the Rutherford, Campus sits on the campus if the Iviswold Castle, which is a restored historic building of interest. That campus is also the home to a late night coffee shop and game room, giving students a place to safely gather at night.

Felician University is one of few schools that offer fully online PhD programs, including their Graduate Doctor of Business Administration Program . There is one brief residency requirement, otherwise, students will learn entirely from the distance learning platform. One of the benefits of the online format is that is entirely self-paced; students even decide when to take their tests and complete their assignments. Students have the opportunity to partner with a faculty member who will not only serve as their academic coach but also on their dissertation committee. Many of the skills the program promotes center leadership and communication building.

Degree: DBA Cost: 2 $$ $$$

28. CBU Online – Riverside, CA

California Baptist University was established in 1950, originally as California Baptist College. They are connected to the Southern Baptist Convention. Their campus sits on 160 acres of land in Riverside, California. They are a private Christian school with a liberal arts foundation. The U.S. News and World Report has consistently ranked them among the best regional universities. CBU is accredited by the American Association of Higher Education, as well as the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, and they received the maximum 10-year accreditation extension. They are known for their special architecture in the distinct style of Mission Revival.

Among the doctorate programs available through CBU Online, the online component to the California Baptist University, one of the best is the Doctorate of Business Administration . This program is comprised of 50 credit units, and including the dissertation, can be completed in a three year time period. They engage the cohort model which gives students access to peer support. There are a few residency requirements, but the majority of the coursework takes place in eight-week online intervals. Financial aid is available for students who qualify. The faculty are all experienced leaders in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors. Students will learn how to generate and conduct applied research with ethics at the core of their discourse.

29. California Intercontinental University – Irvine, CA

California Intercontinental University is an online-based institution of higher learning that was founded in 1996. They didn’t, however, begin granting degrees until 2003. Their headquarters are located in Irvine, California. The course offerings at California Intercontinental include a myriad of degree programs, including Masters of Business Administration, and the sole doctorate program in Business Administration. They also have many bachelor degree programs as well as associate’s degree offerings. Bachelor students are given five years to complete their degrees, as many students are non-traditional adult learners, who may need to balance work alongside their educational endeavors. They are fully accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Distance Education Accrediting Commission.

California Intercontinental University offers a DBA online program that prepares professionals in the business sphere for leadership roles, as well as academic positions. The program supports students achieve a mastery of content knowledge a the niche of their choosing while integrating interdisciplinary knowledge. Students will gain a human resources framework that will enable them to develop and work with diverse teams. The program consists of 60 credit hours, 15 of which are electives. All course work must be complete prior to students initiating their dissertation. An oral dissertation defense and presentation will be what brings the course of study to completion.

30. Wilmington University – New Castle, DE

Wilmington University was founded in 1968, as a non-profit private institution for higher education. Their original name was Wilmington College, though they obtained university status, and their current name, in 2007. Their main campus is located in the town of New Castle, Delaware, and they have six additional campuses scattered throughout the state. They also have secured a partner organization in Northeast Maryland, and several in New Jersey. Their offerings include over 100 degree and certificate granting programs that cross a vast array of disciplines. The current total enrollment at Wilmington U is close to 20,500 students. In 2009, they adopted a new mascot, the Wildcats.

Wilmington University offers a DBA Online program , as well as hybrid option, giving students access to in-person learning as well as online. The online Doctorate of Business Administration program is designed for self-directed professional students who are able to work independently. Students will be required to complete weekly readings, as well as additional assignments curated by the blackboard online learning platform. Discussion boards are a large part of group collaborations, as well as chat and email. Graduates of the program will be prepared to obtain C-level positions and work as business executives, while also having the tools and credentials for an academic teaching career.

31. Eastern University – St. Davids, PA

Eastern University was established in 1925 as a Christian University, that was created to engage the American Baptist Churches with a theologically conservative seminary. They are located on a 114-acre campus in a town called St. Davids, Pennsylvania, just to the west of Philadelphia. St. Davids is considered part of the Philadelphia Main line. They are the home to five different colleges, as well as a college prep school called Eastern University Academy Charter School. Eastern U is also the parent institution to a junior school called Esperanza College. Their student body is interdenominational, as well as their faculty and administration.

Within the realm of online PhD programs, Eastern University offers a groundbreaking PhD in Organizational Leadership that is delivered online. The program delivery includes three short on campus residencies per year, at their main St. Davis campus. Their pedagogical underpinnings include a Christian foundation and explicit teaching of Jesus Christ. Many academic perspectives developed this course of study, including from the realms of business, education, and nonprofits, as well as the church. Students progress in the program in cohorts of close to 20 peers. Three years of coursework is required with a dissertation phase that directly follows. The program can be completed in four years, but they have to be finished in 10 years.

Degree: PhD in Organizational Leadership Cost: $$$ $$

32. Walden University – Minneapolis, MN

Walden University was established in 1970 by two teachers from New York who wanted to create a program for working adults that would grant doctoral degrees. Their early programming was designed for prospective school administrators. They are now primarily an online degree-granting institution, headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. More than 75% of their funding comes from the government, which is more than any other postsecondary school in the nation. They have many accreditations including by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Walden is one entity of a global network that comprises 80 different universities.

Walden University offers an online Doctorate of Business Administration program that was designed for professionals in the sectors of business. Students drawn to the program are generally interested in moving into executive positions or teaching academically. This Doctor of Business Administration is delivered in an online format to allow students to necessary flexibility to continue working within their current careers. They provide students with all of the skills to be global change agents within companies and communities and providing experiential learning opportunities to explore solutions to problems faced in the real world. Students will engage with case studies and interactive media as part of their dynamic learning experience.

Degree: DBA or Phd Management Cost: $$$ $$

33. Franklin University – Columbus, OH

Franklin University was established in 1902 expressly to serve adult learners and their unique needs. They were initiated under the sponsorship of the YMCA School of Commerce and took on their current name in 1933. As of 1964, they divested from the YMCA on good terms. Their primary campus is in Columbus, Ohio, however, they have locations scattered throughout the Midwest. Franklin also offers a large number of online classes and programming. They have international locations as a result of partnerships with affiliated institutions. They are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. A special feature of Franklin University is their coaching program, which allows students to receive mentorship from appointed professionals.

Franklin University has a Doctorate of Business Administration online program that allows students to transfer up to 24 credit hours from a previous educational experience. Students can complete the program in three years, which includes a one year dissertation period. The flexibility of an online course of study makes the program possible for many professionals, as students can work at their own pace and as their schedule permits. One of the interesting features of the program is coursework that centers advanced verbal competencies, as well as the aptitude for interpersonal exchange. Students will gain the knowledge of key business inner workings, including technological innovations and political and economic influences.

34. Sacred Heart University – Fairfield, CT

Sacred Heart University is a private Catholic university established in 1963, with a Roman Catholic foundation. They are located in Fairfield, Connecticut, on a beautiful campus over 300 acres in size. They were the first Catholic University in the nation that was not staffed wholly by clergy. They are the second largest Catholic University in the New England region, Boston College being the first. Sacred Heart is only 150 miles from Boston and 50 miles from New York City. They have four additional campuses in the state, as well as one in Ireland and one in Luxembourg, both of which undergraduates utilize for their study abroad education.

Sacred Heart University offers a great value online phd in finance in their Doctorate in Business Administration degree program . Students will be given the opportunity to explore their own unique interests as they build new frameworks that support career advancement. Graduates will have the foundation to gain leadership positions in financial institutions, as well as government agencies and consulting firms, or enter academic. Students will conduct original research, while growing global perspectives on financial institutions and markets. The schedule of the program was designed with professional adults in mind. Most of the coursework is online, though there are residency opportunities that students are required to attend.

35. Liberty University – Lynchburg, VA

Liberty University online offers several degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral level. Of the PhD programs, LU Online offers, twelve are specializations for Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA online) degree . These options mean that students can tailor their degree to meet their needs exactly. Those focus areas include:

• Human Resources
• Healthcare Management
• Information Systems
• International Business
• Project Management
• Strategic Movement
• Supply Chain Management and Logistics
• Non-Profit Leadership and Management

The Doctorate in Business Administration opens so many doors for graduates. LU DBA students come from executive level positions in the public or private sector, as well as academic faculty positions at colleges and universities. This program is fully accredited by SACSCOC, and students have the opportunity to transfer up to 15 credits from their previous education.

36. Concordia University – Chicago, IL

Concordia University-Chicago is a private liberal arts school actively affiliated with the Lutheran Church. When they first opened their doors, they were designed to provide education to students studying to be parochial teachers. Originally, they had the name Addison Teachers Seminary and underwent many name changes before adopting their current title. They are a member of the Concordia University System. Their campus is on 40 acres in a suburb of Chicago called River Forest, Illinois. They have five distinct colleges, each with its own academic dean. They also offer many online programs, many of which employ a cohort learning model.

Concordia University-Chicago offers a DBA Online Program that was designed for professional students in who are interested in elevating their career potential and invest in personal growth. Students will learn to develop research that is application oriented, while also growing skills related to business knowledge, applied research, and leadership. There are two specializations that students can choose from including Leadership and Innovation and Innovation in Health Care. The program can be completed in three years time and includes 60 credit hours. Online students are required to attend three residencies throughout the course of the program. Students will research and write a dissertation following completion of coursework.

37. Hampton University – Hampton, VA

Hampton University is a private research university established in 1868. The original founders were a multiracial team of leaders who were connected to the American Missionary Association. Hampton is a Historically Black University that was created right after the American Civil War as a gesture to education freed men. From 1878 to 1923, they offered a variety of programs specifically for Native American Students. Their 314-acre campus is located in Hampton, Virginia, and is the home to many buildings that make it a National Historic Landmark District. In 1868 the Hampton Museum was established, and it is now the oldest African American Museum in the country. Within Hampton University are 16 research centers.

Hampton University has an online school called Hampton U Online that offers online PhD programs, including the PhD in Business Administration . This course of study is designed to accommodate business professionals who are searching for the next step in their careers. Graduates may be interested in executive status in the business world, in either the public or private sectors, or an opportunity for academic faculty positions, as well as administrative opportunities. Though the majority of the program will be online, students will be required to attend two extended summer residencies for four weeks each. All students are eligible to participate in the program, though those with a master’s degree are preferred.

Degree: Ph.D. in Business Administration Cost: $$$ $$

38. University of the Cumberlands – Williamsburg, KY

The University of the Cumberlands was established in 1889 with the original name of Cumberland College. They are a religious university with a connection to the Kentucky Baptist Convention, and subsequently, connected to the Southern Baptist Convention. Their rural campus is located on the rolling hills of Williamsburg, Kentucky. They also have a Northern, Kentucky campus in the town of Florence, which offers students more clinical rotations and opportunities to provide mental health care. The University of the Cumberlands is also the home of the School of Lifelong Learning. Institutionally, are divided into four distinct schools and colleges. They are fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

The University of the Cumberlands offers several online PhD Programs including their innovative PhD in Leadership Studies . Students will gain research techniques along with effective strategies for leadership and innovation. They will also be well-versed in administrative and teaching methods, for those who which to pursue tenure-track teaching positions. Students will learn how to create effective change in a variety of academic settings. Coursework crosses the disciplines of Business, Health Sciences, Criminal Justice, History, English, Information Security Systems, among many other topics. Students will learn how to plug into community organizations as advanced practitioners. This degree program was created with flexibility in mind, specifically to cater to adult learners with other professional and personal commitments.

Degree: PhD Cost: $$ $$$

39. City University of Seattle – Seattle, WA

The City University of Seattle is a private school with non-profit status. They were founded in 1973 and were then named City College. They did then and still do have an orientation towards adult learners. They are connected to a larger National University System that offers degree-granting education at sites all over the world, as well as online. Some locations that are home to their sites include Mexico, Europe, Canada, and China. Their headquarters, however, is located in Seattle, Washington, in the Belltown neighborhood. They are regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Since their beginning, they have graduated over 50,000 students from around the world.

The City University of Seattle offers a Doctorate of Business Administration online program that is geared towards professionals who are interested in moving their career to the next level. Students will learn best business practices, critical thinking, and leadership skills. They will also be encouraged to develop a methodology in a tailored research topic of their choice. Incoming students will be allowed to transfer four graduate-level courses from another institution, and apply it to their credit hour completion requirement. The program is comprised of 91 total credit hours and can be completed in 3-4 years time. The online format gives students access to professors and mentorship an interactive learning module for lectures and discussions, as well as live chat.

40. Columbia Southern University – Orange Beach, AL

Columbia Southern University is a southern-based university that focuses on distance learning. They were founded in 1993, and their headquarters are in Orange Beach, Alabama. They started slowly with degree offerings, the first being in Environmental Engineering and Occupational Safety and Health. They are fully accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council, which is recognized by the Council for Council for Higher Education Accreditation, as well as the US Department of Education. Institutionally, they are made up of three colleges and offers 26 different degree programs including associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral. They have over 1,000 faculty members and staff and over 20,000 students enrolled at a given time.

Columbia Southern University offers a Doctorate of Business Administration Online that trains in contemporary leadership skills and engages a combination of research and theory. Students will learn business frameworks that can be applied to a variety of career paths, including academia and the public and private business sectors. Students are required to complete 61 credit hours and conduct original research. Their final year will consist of writing a dissertation to be defended prior to achieving a degree. Dissertation defense can be achieved through the online platforms that the coursework utilizes. The online program uses a “term learning” style that allows students the flexibility to turn in assignments at their own pace, while also sticking to completion dates and course registration.

41. LIGS University – Honolulu, HI

LIGS University is driven to provide high quality and accessible education that is both affordable and applicable to professional paths. This is an interactive and online institution that enables students from all over the world to participate in their programming. LIGS is headquartered in Honolulu, Hawai’i. Their faculty lives and world all over the world. They offer scholarships annually to students who live in the state of Hawai’i. LIGS is unique in everything they do, including the ways they have outlined student learning objectives, which include: Diversity and global perspective, critical thinking and reasoning, effective communication, information competency, ethical behavior and integrity, and mastery of knowledge.

LIGS University offers unique online PhD programs including an interactive PhD that has a Project Management specialty. This program allows students to engage with their interests on a deeper level and encourages combining studies with family, work, and community. The schedule is based on the students’ needs and is adjusted accordingly. Students set their own pace, as well as their own timelines. Not only is the format unique, but so is the pay structure. Students can make payment plans, and divide tuition payments into manageable installments. The entire program is delivered online, though students are given access to a personal study counselor. Upon graduation students still have access to the LIGS community, as well as student portals, and can even attend webinars.

Degree: Interactive Online PhD w/ PM specialization Cost: $ $ $$$

42. California Southern University – Costa Mesa, CA

California Southern University that first opened their doors in 1978. They are a private institution of higher learning with their programming entirely online. Their headquarters are in Costa Mesa, California. Originally, they were named the Southern California University for Professional Studies, and they were based in Anaheim, California. In the 1990’s they began offering programming that was delivered through distance learning, and they moved into providing online education exclusively based on the original model. They have few degree offerings including 10 bachelor’s and certificates programs, though the most popular is the master’s degree programs and their two distinct doctorate degree offerings.

California Southern University School of Business offers a Doctorate of Business Administration online program geared towards professionals who have many years’ experience in the world of business. The program requires completion of 60 credit hours and they except the maximum amount of transferable credits from prior educational endeavors. The program can be completed in four years time if completed at full-time status. California Southern University School of Business is fully accredited by ACBSP, as well as the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Through their online learning portal, students can access everything they need to be successful in the program, including all coursework and cloud-based productivity tools. Students will connect with faculty members with video conferencing or telephone.

43. Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte, Miami, Denver, Providence

Johnson & Wales University was established in 1914. They are a private university with three campuses, other than the flagship, which is located in Providence, Rhode Island. The other three campuses are in Charlotte, North Carolina, Miami, Florida, and Denver, Colorado. They have an extensive online education program called Johnson & Wales University Online, with an extensive degree and course offerings. They are fully accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. JWU has proudly graduated over 100,000 alumni worldwide, hailing from over 150 countries. They value experiential learning and weave it into all aspects of learning. They go so far as to partner with companies to offer students opportunities in industry-specific learning labs.

Johnson & Wales University Online offers a Doctorate of Business Administration online program that was designed to engage many sectors including academia, military, nonprofits, government, business, healthcare, and government, in order to give students the skills to address business challenges ethically. Students will gain insight into creative interventions for common business problems. Graduates of the program will be well poised for executive-level employment opportunities, as well as among other disciplines that utilize leadership strategies. Some students achieve their Doctor of Business Management degree in order to enter academia in a faculty level position. The fully online program requires no residencies and is built around flexibility.

44. Trident University – Cypress, CA

Trident University was established in 1998, and provides entirely online postsecondary education. Their headquarters are located in Cypress, California. They offer bachelor’s degrees, master’s, and doctoral degrees, as well as diploma programs and professional certificates. They largely cater to military personnel and their families. In fact, 75 percent of their student body in 2010 were in the military. There are over 350 faculty members at Trident, most of which are part-time. They are committed to maintaining a 17:1 student to faculty ratio as well as a flexible and very affordable platform for students. The precursor to the current online learning format, the Robust Learning Model (RLM) was considered to be the best distance learning style of its time in the middle 1990s.

Trident University offers a Doctorate of Business Administration Online that was designed for business professionals who are interested in advancing their career to the next level. There are benefits of attending a fully online university, as therein enhanced flexibility with no residency requirements. The programming was designed for adult students who have extensive professional experience, ensuring that the coursework is relevant and accommodates their lifestyles. Students will learn applied research skills that will positively impact their decision-making strategies. The program is committed to developing leaders who bring innovation into the workforce and can create positive change in society at large.

45. William Howard Taft University – Denver, CO

William Howard Taft University is a private-public institution of higher learning. They have been a leader in distance and online education delivery and now exist entirely online. Their headquarters are located in Denver, Colorado. The Taft University System is made up of William Howard Taft University, along with the Taft Law School. Since 2003, they have been accredited by the Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council. One of their interesting offerings is their online bachelor’s in business administration completion program. They have many business-related course and degree offerings. They are a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

William Howard Taft University has a practical Doctorate of Business Administration online program that features independent study and flexibility. This doctor of Business Administration Program is entirely online with no required residencies. Their programmatic focus is based on U.S. business practices, but students in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia are invited to participate. The learning objectives include management, leadership, and administrative competencies. All of the faculty are accomplished in their field, both practically and academically. Students can complete all of the coursework and their dissertation defense in as little as 27 months, however, they have up to seven years to complete the program.

46. Westcliff University – Irvine, CA

Westcliff University was established in 1993, with the express desire to provide quality education for students interested in two very specific fields. When they opened that year, students began programs in the College of Business and the College of Education. Westcliff has stayed true to these initial focus areas, and their current curriculum consists of graduate and undergraduate degree programs in business and education as well as other certificate programs. Westcliff prepares students for both theoretical as well as practical elements required to enter the job market upon graduation. They offer students, who may also be working full-time, opportunities to prepare for innovative online and hybrid distance education courses that are affordable and convenient.

Westcliff University offers a Doctor of Business Administration Program that is designed for students who already possess a master’s degree and a significant amount of professional experience. This program supports students to take the next step in their careers while gaining new skills that can help transform organizations and make them good candidates for academic faculty positions. Social responsibility and contemporary issues such as globalization can be deeply explored within the students’ research agenda, and provide a foundation for understanding the organizational transformation. Students will also gain an understanding of business analysis and effective according to strategies. The program can be completed in the online or hybrid format.

47. Argosy University – Orange, CA

Argosy University has a unique history, as it was formed as the result of a merger of three separate academic institutions—the Medical Institute of Minnesota, the American Schools of Professional Psychology, the University of Sarasota. In 2001, the new blended school brings together the best of all three institutions, each of which has a long history of providing programming for adult learners, and other nontraditional students. Argosy now supports one of the largest graduate student communities in the nation. The university’s name comes from the noun argosy , which means a rich supply or rich bounty. Bringing students everything they need is the goal, and students’ hard work in their programs completes the circle.

Argosy University offers a Doctor in Business Administration program that is geared towards students who are professionals in the business sector and are seeking an education that can usher in the next stage in their career. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Students will have access to faculty from diverse backgrounds with a variety of specialties. A research project in the culmination of the program with the mentorship from a team of faculty and practitioners. The skill set that students will walk away with can bring students to leadership and executive roles in the business sector or faculty positions within the academic environment.

48. Atlantis University – Miami, FL

Training and enabling students to manage industry and social challenges with creativity, critical analysis responsibility, and commitment. Their headquarters is located in Miami, Florida, but offer coursework on campus, online, during the day, at night, and on the weekends. At AU, the scheduling is intentionally flexible to ensure maximum student success.

Atlantis University offers an interesting Doctor of Business Administration program that provides a lot of one-on-one support for students. A primary learning objective in learning how to frame and justify the need for restructuring and change among organizations. Students will engage with the program after having professional business experience and a desire to grow towards an executive leadership position in the business sector, or walk the path of academia. Students will also gain high-quality research skills, as a method towards facilitating organizational growth. A master’s degree is not required for admission; students simply need to have a bachelor’s degree under their belt and a vision to qualify.

49. Anaheim University – Anaheim, CA

Anaheim University is a fully online institution that was founded in 1996. They are accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and are committed to what they call an online face-to-face learning environment. This innovative approach provides opportunities for students around the world to make professional contact with renowned experts in their fields, both furthering their working knowledge as well as advancing their skills in their respective fields. Anaheim University’s online programs do not sacrifice interpersonal communication to offer flexibility and accessibility. Their commitment to accessibility extends to ensuring that tuition remains low and that students may pay course by course. The result is that many students leave their program without any debt or student loans.

Anaheim University offers a Doctorate of Business Administration online program that focuses on International Business. The course of study requires 6 foundational classes, as well as four classes related to the students chosen a concentration, plus two elective courses, and the final dissertation. The total credit hours are 60. Students will learn via live webcam for seminars with leaders in the field from all over the world. One of the perks of this program is the flexibility that enables students to work full time while completing the program in a three year period. Many graduates achieve executive positions at multinational organizations upon graduation.

50. Northcentral University – San Diego, CA

Northcentral University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1996 as a 100% online school with a unique one-to-one learning model. They offer more than 200 program focuses on 37 different degree and certificate programs. Because they are regionally accredited, they can offer high-quality programming to students in any country on the map. Students will benefit from 100% doctoral faculty, a feat few universities make happen, but is a priority for Northcentral. With the one to one learning model, students are able to develop direct academic relationships with faculty in each of their courses. The number one commitment that faculty has is toward student success.

Northcentral University offers a Doctorate of Business Administration online program , as well as a PhD in Business Administration. These both act a training for executive leadership development for students already working in the professional sphere. Students will learn how to engage creative and ethical solutions to business challenges. These programs were designed with flexibility in mind. The online format includes weekly course starts that can be worked around the students’ schedule. The program includes the opportunity to specialize from within 18 distinct professional specializations. The coursework is comprised of 54 credit hours that can be completed in 39 months. One of the interesting features of the program is that students can enter the program at any time, as there are weekly start dates.

Degree: DBA and PhD Cost: $$ $$$

Embrace the convenience of online learning and shape your own path to success.

Explore schools offering programs and courses tailored to your interests, and start your learning journey today.

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Spartan Alert

Riding research excellence, uncg online phd in business administration surges into year 3.

Posted on December 13, 2021

When Dr. Aichia Chuang was hired as a professor at the UNC Greensboro Bryan School of Business and Economics in 2019, she was simultaneously appointed director for the brand new PhD in Business Administration program on an interim basis. Initiated and designed by Dr. Moses Acquaah, head of the Department of Management, the program is now flourishing in its third year. While Chuang’s interim status has changed and students from the program’s first cohort are now writing proposals for their dissertations, the program’s focus is as clear as it has ever been — world-class research.

“The PhD program is a research-oriented program designed to prepare students for careers as faculty in academic institutions and as professionals in research organizations and government institutions. Our program is a PhD in Business Administration not a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). We focus strictly on theoretical research,” says Chuang, program director and professor in the Department of Management.

With three concentration areas — International Business, Organizational Behavior, and Strategic Management — the program enrolls about 12 students a year. Most students are assistant professors, instructors, or lecturers in academic institutions, while the rest are industry professionals. They are genuinely interested in doing research and looking to obtain a PhD to either advance in their career in academia or switch to academia.

“Our students tend to have full-time jobs. So a majority of them now have a time conflict from three ways: work, family, and school. But the program will not compromise the quality of our PhD education. Our students have impressed us with how dedicated they are to their course work and doing research,” said Chuang. 

Chuang has enjoyed watching the first cohort grow and develop. Like her, those students have been with the program since the very beginning — students like Katherine Clyde.

“We were lucky that we all got to meet in person prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and I think that really helped us bond as a group,” says Clyde, who teaches and serves as the Dean of Business at Pitt Community College in Greenville, North Carolina, a position she held before starting the PhD program. “I think our cohort is very close, and we try to encourage each other and cheer each other on. It does feel special.”

For Clyde, online flexibility was a major factor when choosing a PhD program.

“I started working full-time after finishing my MBA, and I didn’t feel like I could ever stop working and relocate to participate in a full-time, face-to-face, PhD program,” she said. “ The UNCG PhD in Business Administration is ideal for working individuals because it allows me to keep my job but still complete a PhD from an AACSB-accredited school.”

The Bryan School’s program is the first Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accredited online PhD in Business Administration program in the world. AACSB is the largest and longest-serving global accrediting body for business schools that offer undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees in business and accounting. The Bryan School holds dual accreditation in business and accounting from AACSB – a distinction held by only 1% of business schools worldwide.

The PhD program also holds an accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). But for Clyde and her first cohort classmate Kristi Lynch, their enjoyment of the program goes beyond accreditations and online flexibility.

“I have been incredibly impressed with the quality of faculty and instruction throughout the program,” said Lynch, who also teaches and had joined the University of Nebraska Omaha as the Director of the MBA program before her admission to UNCG. “The professors also are very supportive of the students and are working hard to mentor and coach us along the way.”

Students in the program interact with faculty who are top researchers, publishing in various Financial Times 50 journals such as Academy of Management Journal, Academy of Management Review, Administrative Science Quarterly, Journal of Applied Psychology, Journal of International Business Studies, Strategic Management Journal, and Harvard Business Review . 

“Although our program is an online program, students have strong bonds with each other, our faculty, and the program. This is probably because the program offers a lot of opportunities for students to interact with each other. For example, we offer a synchronous session every other week for every course where students interact with the instructors and their peers. Students really appreciate this opportunity to learn from their instructor and cohort in addition to studying on their own,” says Chuang. “The program also offers training opportunities such as department research seminars and research workshops — not to mention virtual social hours every month.”

The program’s students take part in major management academic conferences such as those organized by the Academy of Management, Academy of International Business, and Southern Management Association. 

Chuang says there are many reasons students continue to choose the Bryan School’s PhD in Business Administration . But there’s one reason, she says, that is top of mind for many applicants alongside online flexibility, rigor, accredited quality, access to world-class faculty, and the program’s research-oriented approach.

“It is reasonably priced,” she says.

Clyde says if prospective students out there think they want to pursue a career in academia, it’s never too soon to start exploring options.

“I was really clueless about what the program would be like, what is involved with research, and what it would take to be prepared to pursue a tenure-track faculty position,” Clyde says. “At the Bryan School, I have obviously learned the more tangible and technical skills like how to structure a research paper, how to collect and analyze data, how to be a better writer, etc. But I think we have also gained intangible skills, too. How to be a better group member, how to advocate for yourself, how to practice open-mindedness, how to engage in healthy debate, and how to persevere.”

Have questions? Visit our PhD website or contact [email protected]

-Eric Jackson, MBA ’23, contributed to this story

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50 Best Online DBA Programs [2024 Doctor of Business Administration Guide]

Online DBA programs can help you earn your Doctor of Business Administration in as little as 2 years. With average salaries ranging from $87K to $184K (Bureau of Labor Statistics), DBA benefits can be immense.

With an eye on the horizon, you may be considering what steps you need to take to advance your career.

Now, you can leverage technology to accomplish your goals – and get the very same doctorate awarded to on-campus students – but without sacrificing your career or time with your family.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

List of Online DBA Programs

Methodology: Each of the below universities appears on our list because they are accredited institutions offering DBA program s that students can earn primarily online.

We’ve separated the following list of universities by accreditation level, starting with regional accreditation, followed by those universities accredited by the AACSB, ACBSP,  and IACBE.

Universities Offering Online DBA Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be AACSB, ACBSP, and IACBE accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Alliant International University

Alliant International University is privately owned and managed. It was founded in 2001 through a merger of two existing academic institutions, the California School of Professional Psychology and United States International University. Current enrollment figures reach more than 3,800 per semester. Most of these are postgrads at about 3,500. There are six Alliant campuses in the States.

• Online DBA – Marketing
• Online DBA – Management
• Online DBA – Information and Data Science

Alliant  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Baker College

Baker College is a privately owned American college operating out of Flint Township, Michigan. It was established in 1911 as the Baker Business University.

More than 50 years later, this precursor university was acquired by Muskegon College. This merger brought about a name change to Baker Junior College. They soon dropped the “Junior” and now currently operate under their present name.

The school offers more than 150 programs through its eight campuses and online university component.

Baker  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

California Baptist University

The California Baptist University is a privately operated academic institution that has a strong focus on liberal arts. This university is also called Cal Baptist or CBU. It runs a 160-acre suburban campus in Riverside, California.

On average, about 11,000 students enroll per semester. CBU is religiously affiliated with the Baptist denomination through the California Southern Baptists Convention. Its sports teams are called the “Lancers,” and they play in the NCAA Division I.

CBU  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

California Southern University

California Southern University is privately owned and operated academic institution. This university was established in 1978 originally as the Southern California University for Professional Studies and offered programs and courses through the traditional correspondence method.

As online technology improved, it gradually transitioned its programs into their current online degree programs. Its current headquarters is in Costa Mesa, California.

CalSouthern  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

City University of New York – Baruch College

Baruch College, also known officially as Bernard M. Baruch College, is a publicly administered educational institution that has an urban campus in New York City. It is a member of the City University of New York System.

It was founded in 1919 originally as City College School of Business and Civic Administration. Current figures have the total student population at more than 18,400. More than 3,000 of these are postgrads.

The Baruch College sports teams are called the “Bearcats.” They wear blue and white and play in the NCAA Division III.

• Online Executive DBA

Baruch College  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Concordia University Chicago

Concordia University Chicago is a privately owned and managed liberal arts university that has a 40-acre suburban campus in River Forest, Illinois. It was founded in 1864 originally as Addison Teachers Seminary.

It was founded by Saxon German immigrants who ran the school with Lutheran values. Today, as a member of the Concordia University System, it is still affiliated with the Lutheran Church. Its sports teams wear maroon and gold and play in the NCAA Division III.

• Online DBA – Innovation in Health Care
• Online DBA – Innovations in Human Resources
• Online DBA – Leadership and Innovation
• Online DBA – Marketing Innovations

CU Chicago  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Drexel University

Drexel University is a privately owned and administered academic institution with a strong research focus. It has a 77-acre main campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1891 originally as the Drexel Institute of Art, Science, and Industry.

Current data on enrollment has the total census of students at about 24,000. Undergrads make up about 15,500, with the rest being postgrads. Its sports team is called the “Dragons.” They play in the NCAA Division I.

Drexel  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Felician University

Felician University is a privately owned and managed educational institution that has two campuses in Bergen County, New Jersey. It was founded in 1942 as the Immaculate Conception Normal School.

The founders were the Felician Sisters who administered the school in the Franciscan tradition, and it is still affiliated with the Catholic Church. There are currently about 2,000 students attending the university.

Its sports teams are called the “Golden Falcons,” and they play in the NCAA Division II.

Felician  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Florida International University

The Florida International University, also known as FIU, is a public state-run education institution for higher learning that has a strong focus on research. It manages a 573-acre urban campus in University Park, Florida.

It was established in 1965 with the signing into law of the Senate Bill 711. Current enrollment figures have the total census at about 57,000. Undergrads make up more than 48,000 and the rest is comprised of postgrads.

Its sports teams are called the “Panthers.” They play in the NCAA Division I.

FIU Business  is accredited by the AASCB.

George Fox University

George Fox University is a privately administered academic institution that runs a 108-acre suburban campus in Newberg, Oregon. It was founded in 1885 originally as the Friends Pacific Academy. It was founded by Quakers, and as such, it is affiliated with the Christian faith.

It is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities and the Christian College Consortium. The current census has the student population at about 3,800. The majority of these are undergrads at a little over 2,300, and the rest are postgrads.

Its sports teams are called the “Bruins,” and they play in the NCAA Division III.

• Online DBA – Accounting

George Fox’s College of Business  is accredited by the  ACBSP.

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University, also known as GCU, is a privately administered university that has a 100-acre urban campus in Phoenix, Arizona. It was founded in 1949 as the Grand Canyon College by an Evangelical Christian assembly called the Arizona Southern Baptist Convention.

Current student numbers have the total census at about 90,500. A big majority of these are online students at 70,000. The rest are enrolled in on-campus programs.

Its sports teams are called the “Antelopes” or the “Lopes.” They in the NCAA Division I.

• Online DBA – Data Analytics

Business programs at  GCU  are accredited by the  ACBSP.

Marymount University

Marymount DBA is highly personalized, allowing students to conduct applied research directly related to their career goals. There are no residences for DBA and no GRE or GMAT required and students can advance their careers in fully online and part-time formats.

Marymount University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

National University

National University is a network of nonprofit educational institutions headquartered in San Diego, CA. It is dedicated to providing quality, flexible education for busy adults.

NU was founded in 1971 and now has over 30,000 students enrolled and more than 220,000 alumni from around the world.

• Online DBA – Advanced Accounting
• Online DBA – Financial Management
• Online DBA – General Business
• Online DBA – Global Business Management
• Online DBA – Health Services
• Online DBA – Homeland Security: Leadership and Policy
• Online DBA – Human Resources Management
• Online DBA – Industrial Organizational Psychology
• Online DBA – Information Technology
• Online DBA – Organizational Leadership
• Online DBA – Project Management
• Online DBA – Strategic Marketing

National University ‘s business administration programs are accredited by ACBSP.

Rollins College

Rollins College is a privately owned and operated academic institution for higher learning that has an 80-acre suburban campus in Winter Park, Florida. It was established in 1885 as a liberal arts college by the Congregationalists in New England. It is a non-sectarian college.

Current enrollment data has the total number of students at about 3,000. More than two-thirds of these are undergrads.

Its sports teams are called the “Tars,” and they play in the NCAA Division II.

The  Department of Business at Rollins  is accredited by the AASCB.

Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University is a privately administered liberal arts academic institution for higher learning. It operates a rural campus in Saint Leo, Florida. It was established in 1889 but traces its roots to the establishment of a Roman Catholic community in Florida eight years prior.

It is still presently affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church through the Order of Saint Benedict. Current student enrollment is at about 12,000 students. Most of these are online at a little over 7,000.

Its sports teams are called the “Lions,” and they play in the NCAA Division II.

Saint Leo  is accredited by the  ACBSP.

Temple University

Temple University, also known as TU, is a publicly administered educational institution for higher learning that has a strong focus on research. It manages a 115-acre urban campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

It was founded in 1884 by a Boston lawyer and Baptist minister by the name of Russell Conwell. Current figures have the total student census at 40,000. About three-quarters are undergrads, and the remaining quarter is composed of postgrads.

Their sports teams are called the “Owls.” They play in the NCAA Division I.

Temple  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

University of Dallas

The University of Dallas is a privately owned educational institution that operates a 744-acre urban campus is Irving, Texas. It was founded in 1956 with 96 students, but it traces the history of its charter back to 1910.

It is presently affiliated religiously with the Roman Catholic Church. Current student enrollment figures have the total census at over 2,000. More than half of these are undergrads.

The University of Dallas sports teams are called the “Crusaders” and play in the NCAA Division III.

UDallas  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Missouri – Saint Louis

The University of Missouri – St. Louis is a public state-administered educational institution for higher learning with a strong focus on research. It manages a 35-acre urban campus in St. Louis County, Missouri.

It was founded in 1960 as a junior college named the “Normandy Residence Center under the auspices of the University of Missouri.” Current data on enrollment has the total number of students at about 16,000. More than 13,000 of these are undergrads, with postgrads making up the remaining 3,000.

Their sports teams are called the “Tritons.” They play in the NCAA Division II.

The  UMSL College of Business Administration  is accredited by the AASCB.

University of South Florida

The University of South Florida, also known as USF, is a state-run educational institution for higher learning that operates a 1,913-acre urban campus in Tampa, Florida. It was established in 1956, but the first class was not held until 1960. It is part of the USF system of universities.

Current enrollment figures have the total number of students at about 50,000. Most of these are undergrads at more than 37,000, and the rest of the 11,000 are postgrads.

Their sports teams are called the “Bulls,” and they play in the NCAA Division I.

The  USF Muma College of Business  is accredited by the AASCB.

University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix, also known as UOPX, is an educational institution for higher learning that provides online courses. It operates out of its headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona. It was established in 1976 with only eight students.

It was 13 years after its launch that the University of Phoenix first offered its online courses. Current enrollment figures have the total number of students at about 100,000. The highest recorded enrollment was back in 2009 with 443,000 students.

Nine UOPX business programs in the  School of Business  and School of Advanced Studies are accredited by the  ACBSP.

University of the Incarnate Word

The University of the Incarnate Word, also known as UIW, is a privately owned and managed academic institution for higher learning. It operates a 154-acre urban campus in San Antonio, Texas. It also has satellite campuses in China, Mexico, and Germany.

It was founded in 1881 by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word originally as the Incarnate Word School. Current census has its total number of students at about 11,000.

Its sports teams are called the “Cardinals.” They play in the NCAA Division I.

All business programs of the UIW , except the Master of Health Administration, are accredited by the  ACBSP.

University of Wisconsin – Whitewater

The University of Wisconsin – Whitewater is a state-run educational institution for higher learning that has a 440-acre rural campus in Whitewater, Wisconsin. It was founded in 1868 originally as the Whitewater Normal School.

Today, current enrollment figures have their total number of students at more than 12,000. A big majority of these are undergrads, with more than 11,000 students.

Their sports teams are called the “Warhawks.” They play in the NCAA Division III.

The  UW-Whitewater College of Business and Economics  is accredited by the AASCB.

Walden University

Walden University is a privately owned and administered educational institution for higher learning that offers courses online.

Walden University operates out of their headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was established in 1970 by two teachers from New York who wanted to offer doctorate degrees to adult learners. Its first online courses were offered in 1995.

A current census of their student enrollment has the figures at a little less than 50,000.

• Online DBA – Energy Management
• Online DBA – Entrepreneurship
• Online DBA – Finance
• Online DBA – Global Supply Chain Management
• Online DBA – Healthcare Management
• Online DBA – Homeland Security
• Online DBA – Human Resource Management
• Online DBA – Information Systems Management
• Online DBA – International Business
• Online DBA – Leadership
• Online DBA – Self-Designed
• Online DBA – Social Impact Management
• Online DBA – Technology Entrepreneurship

Walden’s DBA  programs are accredited by the  ACBSP.

Wilmington University

Wilmington University is a privately owned and administered educational institution for higher learning that has a strong focus on research. It has a suburban campus along DuPont Highway, New Castle, Delaware.

It was established in 1968 originally as the Wilmington College. It was only in 2007 that it became a university. The current student census has the total number of students at about 20,000. Around 12,000 of these are undergrads, and the rest are postgrads.

Its sports teams are called the “Wildcats.” They play in the NCAA Division II.

Wilmington’s College of Business  is accredited by the IACBE.

List of Universities Offering Online DBA Programs with Regional Accreditation

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Alliant International University is privately owned and managed. It was founded in 2001 through a merger of two existing academic institutions, the California School of Professional Psychology and United States International University.

Current enrollment figures reach more than 3,800 per semester. Most of these are postgrads at about 3,500. There are six Alliant campuses in the States and four at international locations (Hong Kong, Mexico City, Mexico, Nairobi, Kenya and Tokyo, Japan).

Bellevue University

Bellevue University is a privately managed non-profit academic institution that runs a suburban campus in Bellevue, Nebraska. This university was founded in 1966 originally as the Bellevue College. Their primary mission was to provide a means for working adults to get continuing education.

The current student census has the total student population at more than 10,000. Undergrads make up about 7,000 of these, and the rest are postgrads. The Bellevue University sports teams are called the “Bruins.”

• Online PhD in Human Capital Management

Bellevue  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Capella University

Capella University a privately owned and managed online academic institution that operates out of Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was founded in 1993 as the Graduate School of America.

To date, there are close to 40,000 students enrolled. These students come from all over the US and 61 other countries around the world. Almost a quarter of the enrolled students are taking up doctorate degree programs, about half taking up their master’s and a little over a quarter taking up bachelor degree programs.

• Online DBA – General Management
• Online DBA – Organizational Leadership and Development
• Online DBA – Strategy and Innovation

Capella  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Capitol Technology University

Capitol Technology University is a privately owned and managed educational institution that runs a 52-acre suburban campus in South Laurel, Maryland. It was founded in 1927 originally as the Capitol Radio Engineering Institute, a traditional correspondence learning school.

Seventy years after its founding, it began offering distant learning courses over the internet. Capitol Technology University courses are designed for adult learners who are employed in a full-time capacity. Today, current data has the total student census at about 840 students. About 400 of these are postgrads.

• Online PhD in Business Analytics and Decision Sciences

CapTechU  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

City University of Seattle

City University of Seattle, also known as CityU, is a privately owned and administered academic institution with campuses all over the world. They have campuses in Canada, China, Czech Republic, Mexico, Slovakia, Switzerland, and Vietnam.

They also have partnerships with the State colleges of Washington as well as a host of partnerships with colleges around the world, such as in Romania, Cyprus, Greece, and Australia.

CityU was founded in 1973 originally as City College. The current census has the total student population at about 6,700.

CityU  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Franklin University

Opening its doors in 1902, Franklin University has expanded into a large private educational entity that serves students worldwide through online and campus-based curriculums.

Students seeking an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree through Franklin University has a range of academic areas to choose from, including business, administration, and healthcare.

• BS in Public Administration

Franklin University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Hampton University

Hampton University is a privately owned and managed educational institution that operates a 314-acre suburban campus in Hampton, Virginia.

It was established in 1868 by the American Missionary Association for the benefit of freed slaves. As such, Hampton University is a historically Black college.

Current figures on student population have the total number of students at about 4,600. More than 800 of these are postgrads.

Its sports teams are called the “Pirates.” They play in the NCAA Division I.

• Online PhD in Business Administration

Hampton  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Humboldt International University

Humboldt International University, also known as Humboldt State or HSU, is a publicly administered educational institution that operates a 144-acre rural campus in Arcata, California.

It was founded in 1913 as the Humboldt Normal School. Current data has the total student population at about 7,700. The majority are undergrads at about 7,200, and the remaining 500 are postgrads.

Its sports teams are called the “Lumberjacks” and play in the NCAA Division II.

HIU  is accredited by the Confederation of International Accreditation Commission.

Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University is a privately administered educational institution for higher learning that operates a 320-acre suburban campus in Marion, Indiana. It also has several education centers all over the Midwest.

It was founded in 1920 as Marion College by the Wesleyan Methodist Church. Today, this religious affiliation remains. Current data has the total student population at about 13,800.

Its sports teams are called the “Wildcats,” and they play in the NCCAA Division I.

• Online DBA – Healthcare Administration

IWU  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Johnson and Wales University

Johnson and Wales University is a privately administered education institution for higher learning with a strong focus on careers. Its urban campuses are located in Providence, Rhode Island; Miami, Florida, Charlotte, North Carolina; and Denver, Colorado.

It was founded in 1914 as the Johnson & Wales Business School. In the beginning, there was only one student and also online typewriter. Today, current data has the total student population at just under 13,000.

Its sports teams are called the “Wildcats.” They play in the NCAA Division III.

JWU  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (CIHE).

Kansas State University

Kansas State University, also called KSU, or K-State, is a publicly administered educational institution for higher learning with a strong focus on research. It has a 668-acre urban college town in Manhattan, Kansas.

It was founded in 1863 through the Morrill Act, making it a land-grant college. Current enrollment figures have the total students at about 21,000.

Its sports teams are called the “Wildcats,” and they play in the NCAA Division I.

• Online PhD in Personal Financial Planning

K-State  has been continuously accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools since 1916.

Liberty University

Liberty University, also known as LU, is a privately administered university with a 7,000-acre suburban campus in Lynchburg, Virginia.

It was founded in 1971 originally as the Lynchburg Baptist College by a pastor of Thomas Road Baptist Church. While not officially affiliated with the Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia, they do share some members of the board.

Current enrollment census has the total population at over 100,000. Approximately 95% of these are enrolled in online programs. Their sports teams are called the “Liberty Flames” and the “Lady Flames.” They play in the NCAA Division I.

• Online DBA – Human Resources
• Online DBA – Information Systems
• Online DBA – Non-Profit Management
• Online DBA – Strategic Management
• Online DBA – Strategic Media and Digital Content
• Online DBA – Supply Chain Management and Logistics

Liberty  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

LIGS University

LIGS University is a privately operated online educational institution that is based in Honolulu, Hawaii. The name is an acronym of the university’s vision of Leadership, Innovation, Growth, and Success.

LIGS touts itself as a modern university that utilizes American and European educational systems. The current iteration of this online university is a merger between American LIGS University and European LIGS University.

It was originally established in 2006 in Prague, Czech Republic and only relocated to Hawaii in 2011. Its mission is to give its students access to affordable yet high-quality education.

• Online DBA – Global Marketing
• Online DBA – Marketing Communication
• Online DBA – Planning and Development of Human Resources
• Online DBA – Risk Management
• Online DBA – Team Management

LIGS  is accredited by Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges and Universities.

Pepperdine University

Opening its doors in 1937, Pepperdine University is a private Christian College That sits in the heart of Malibu, CA. Pepperdine University gives students the opportunity to participate in bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs in more than 70 academic areas of study.

• Executive Doctor of Business Administration

Pepperdine  is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

Regent University

Regent University is a privately owned and administered educational institution that operates a 70-acre suburban campus in Virginia Beach, Virginia. It was founded in 1977 originally as the Christian Broadcasting Network University.

It is currently religiously affiliated with the Evangelical Christian ideology. Current data on their student enrollment has the total number of students at about 8,600. This is almost evenly distributed between the undergrads and the postgrads.

The Regent University nickname is the “Royals.”

• Online PhD in Organizational Leadership

Regent  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

South University

South University is a privately owned and administered academic institution for higher learning that manages campuses in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. It was founded in 1899 originally as the Draughan’s Practical Business College.

Seventy-five years later, it was bought by the South family. It started offering online programs in 2004. More than half of the enrollment is entirely online.

SouthU  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, also known as The Chicago School, is a privately owned and managed educational institution for higher learning that operates campuses in Chicago, Illinois; Richardson, Texas; San Diego, California; Washington, D.C.; and Los Angeles, California.

It was originally established in 1979 to serve as a school to train students in professional psychology. Today, The Chicago School has other programs in different fields of study and professions. Current data on enrollment has its total student census at 4,500.

• Online PhD in Business Psychology

The Chicago School  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Trident University

Trident University is a privately owned and managed academic institution for higher learning that conducts its courses purely online. It operates out of Cypress, California.

It was founded in 1998 originally as the Touro University International, which itself was only a branch campus of a much larger school system at the time, the Touro College and University System.

It was later acquired by Summit Partners in 2007 but is currently an independent, standalone institution. The current student census has total student numbers at about 6,000.

Trident  is the only fully online university regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

University of Charleston

The University of Charleston, also known as UC, is a privately owned and administered educational institution for higher learning that operates an urban campus in Charleston, West Virginia. It was founded in 1888 originally as the Barboursville Seminary of the Southern Methodist Church.

Current data on enrollment has its total student numbers at about 1,500. About a thousand of these are undergrads, and the remaining 500 or so students are postgrads.

Its sports teams are called the “Golden Eagles.” They play in NCAA Division II.

• Online Doctor’s in Executive Leadership

UCWV  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association.

University of Maryland – College Park

The University of Maryland, College Park, also known as University of Maryland, UMD, or even simply as just Maryland, is a publicly administered educational institution that has a strong focus on research. It runs a 1,340-acre suburban campus in College Park, Maryland.

It was founded in 1856 originally as the Maryland Agricultural College. Current data on enrollment has the total student census at more than 41,000. About three-quarters of these are undergrads, with the remainder comprised of postgrads.

Their sports teams are called the “Terrapins.” They play in the NCAA Division I.

UMD  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

UOPX  is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, part of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

University of the Cumberlands

The University of Cumberlands is a privately administered educational institution for higher learning that manages a rural campus in Williamsburg, Kentucky. It was established in 1888 originally as the Cumberland College. It operated under this name until 2005, when it became a university.

Current enrollment data has the total student census at more than 13,000. The majority of these are postgrads, with more than 10,000 students.

Their sports teams are called the “Patriots,” and they play in the NAIA.

UCumberlands  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of the Southwest

The University of the Southwest is a privately owned and administered educational institution for higher learning that has a campus in Hobbs, New Mexico. It traces its origins to 1956 when the Hobbs Baptist College was founded.

It originally ran as a Baptist college but this was changed into an interdenominational private college in 1961. It was christened its current name in 2008. Current census of students has the total number at about 1,000. Postgrads make up more than 600 of these, and the rest are undergrads.

Their sports teams are called the “Mustangs,” and they play in the NAIA.

• Online DBA in Leadership and Organizational Development
• Online DBA in Self-Design
• Online DBA in Strategy and Innovation

USW  was granted accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission in 1980 and has maintained continuous accreditation.

Westcliff University

Westcliff University, also known as Westcliff, is a privately owned and administered education institution for higher learning. It has two campuses in California, the Irvine Campus and the Cerritos Campus.

It was founded in 1993 originally as training grounds for students who wanted a career in education or business. Enrollment figures currently have the total number of students at more than 1,300 students. Students from about 60 countries are enrolled at Westcliff University.

Its sports teams are called the “Warriors.”

Westcliff  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Check each university’s costs and curriculum schedule before applying to a business administration  degree program to make sure that the program meets your budget and timeline for graduation.

Online Doctor of Business Administration Programs

With a variety of opportunities available to you, specializing can help you become a leader in your field as you meet your professional and personal goals. Depending on your institution of choice, you can specialize in a concentration or specific field that helps differentiate yourself from other alumni.

Each of these DBA programs offers accelerated 8-week online classes. Click on the subject area that most interests you.

Business Administration

Entrepreneurship, healthcare management, homeland security, human resource management, information systems management, international business, project management.

• Supply Chain Management

Regardless of which – if any – concentration you decide upon, you will likely participate in seminars, fieldwork, and even advanced symposiums as you train to become a distinguished corporate leader.

Online DBA in Accounting

For a numbers person, a DBA concentration in Accounting can be a great way to help you develop skills that go well beyond the introductory accounting classes that you took during your earlier academic pursuits.

During your studies, you’ll likely spend a significant amount of time reviewing the available literature in the field and discussing topics like forensic accounting, agency theory, behavioral accounting, and audit theory. You may also explore the role that ethics plays in accounting practice.

Online DBA in General Business

A concentration in Business Administration serves as a generalist approach to earning a DBA.

You might choose this approach if, for the sake of career versatility, you want your doctoral studies to be as broad in scope as possible. Another reason to choose this type of DBA is customization.

Selecting several elective courses from different specializations can help you tailor your studies to your personal areas of interest.

Online DBA in Entrepreneurship

If you love the thrill of startups and business launches, then a concentration in Entrepreneurship might be for you.

Entrepreneurship doctoral candidates study creative thinking that can help them tackle business opportunities and decisions in fresh ways. They also discuss venture capitalism and other sources of funding for startups. In addition, students explore key principles that apply in nearly any business setting; these include problem-solving and organizational change.

Online DBA in Finance

Although any DBA graduate may be able to earn a position as a C-suite executive, those with a Finance concentration may be particularly well-suited to serve as an organization’s chief financial officer. Other career options include investment banking and financial planning.

Your coursework can help you gain an in-depth understanding of budgeting, investments,   mergers, financial analysis, securities, decision modeling and risk management for private businesses and public organizations. Financial management encompasses other significant areas of study such as insurance, mortgages, loan applications, credit cards, and more

Online DBA in Healthcare Management

The healthcare industry presents unique opportunities and challenges that other sectors don’t always face. Students who pursue a DBA concentration in Healthcare Management can work on gaining the skills necessary for leadership success in this field.

Coursework may address topics like managing a diverse team of healthcare professionals, working within a budget, delivering quality care, social work , and operating in a managed-care context. You may also perform an in-depth analysis of current systems for healthcare delivery.

Online DBA in Homeland Security

Government and law enforcement agencies rely on the expertise of DBA holders with a concentration in Homeland Security. Public safety and disaster management are top areas of focus with this specialization.

Students investigate the issues of terrorism and intelligence, and they discuss the ways that infrastructure affects both prevention and recovery efforts. After graduation, you might choose to seek employment with a criminal justice or law enforcement team, a recovery organization or a government agency.

Online DBA in Human Resource Management

Businesses rely on attracting and retaining top talent and skilled employees.

A concentration in Human Resource Management can help you learn what it takes to ensure that your organization is making the most of its personnel resources. Students in this concentration typically study team-building concepts, learn how to foster positive interactions, and discuss ways to improve employee skills.

Your coursework may also cover employee retention, labor laws, payroll issues, and benefits packages.

Online DBA in Information System Management

Do you excel in both business concepts and computer skills? If you have a passion for both of these fields, a DBA with a concentration in Information Systems Management can help you combine these two interests.

Studies in this concentration focus on the ways that businesses use technology to streamline their productivity and boost their effectiveness. You and your classmates may also explore how innovative uses of technology can give organizations an advantage over their competitors.

Online DBA in International Business

If you have the desire to work in a global market, then you may appreciate the knowledge and skills that you can gain from an International Business DBA concentration.

The classes that you take for this specialization may cover topics like global ethics and worldwide finance. They can help you gain skills for operating in international markets and learn about laws that can affect business dealings in other countries.

Online DBA in Leadership

Whether in times of success or times of trouble, organizations rely on powerful leaders to help them continue to grow and thrive.

You may have natural leadership talent, but a DBA with a concentration in Leadership can help you refine those skills to become a leader whom businesses entrust with their top positions.

Your studies can help you gain a better understanding of change navigation, personnel management, critical thinking, and sustainability.

Online DBA in Management

If you’re a strong leader, then you probably have experience with being in management positions. However, there’s always room for growth; a Management concentration can help you obtain advanced skills for managing people and organizations.

Classes in this concentration typically explore the areas of human resources, ethical leadership, organizational change, and business development. You may also take classes that can help you learn to manage teams in international settings.

Online DBA in Marketing

Although many DBA students take some marketing classes, a concentration in this area can help you dive even deeper into this field.

Marketing students explore consumer behavior; studying psychology and sociology can help provide a foundation for developing effective marketing techniques.

Faculty may also present information on marketing through online channels, increasing the exposure of non-profit organizations, and considering the role that culture plays in consumer decisions. Doctoral candidates also practice conducting marketing research.

Online DBA in Project Management

When the responsibility for an entire business project rests on your shoulders, it’s critical that you are confident in your abilities.

A concentration in Project Management can help you obtain advanced leadership and organizational skills that you can depend on time and again as you see a project from start to finish.

Coursework for this concentration typically covers topics like budgeting, team management, cost predictions, and the responsible use of financial resources.

Online DBA in Supply Chain Management

To turn a concept into a consumer-ready product, businesses often need to oversee a number of steps and coordinate with multiple suppliers. Carrying these processes out in an efficient manner is the goal of a Supply Chain Management concentration.

Your coursework in business degree  may focus on maintaining ethical business practices and relying on information technology. Because the supply chain often involves resources from multiple countries, you will probably study international business principles.

What is a Doctor of Business Administration?

Earning a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) signifies that you are capable of successfully handling the rigors of business and public administration careers that require advanced research skills and the application of high-level business theory.

Generally, established business executives and corporate officers pursue a DBA as an academic “capstone” that complements their practical accomplishments and real-world experience. As far as actual time in school goes, this program of study generally requires about 84 credit hours to complete.

Online DBA Curriculum

DBA degrees focus on equipping students to become world-changers through leadership and strategic courses.

Typical Online DBA Classes:

• Applied Statistical Analysis
• Becoming an Applied Researcher
• Business Strategy and Innovation for Competitive Advantage
• Contemporary Challenges in Business
• The Craft of Research and Writing
• Doctoral Colloquium
• Leadership and Followership
• Organizational Leadership: Doctoral Theory and Practice
• Qualitative Methods for Diagnosis and Assessment
• Qualitative and Case Study Methodology for Business Analysis Research
• Technology Entrepreneurship

Completing a business degree online with a transcript that includes classes such as these can help you become a distinguished leader in your professional field.

Doctor of Business Administration Career Outlook and Salary Information

With the option to earn a standard DBA or specialize in a particular concentration or area of specialty, the career outlook for graduates of this kind of program is wide open. However, the common thread between these specializations – from accounting to finance – is the ability to capably step into upper management and executive positions.

As with any degree, salaries vary and depend on your prior work experience, the industry in which you are seeking employment, and your location.

That being said, in terms of salary potential, the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that chief executive officers (CEOs) make an average salary of $184,460, while operations managers and other general management positions lay claim to an average annual salary of $105,660.

Chief financial officers (CFO) and chief operating officers (COO) each earn average salaries of $145,280 and $100,780, respectively.

Differences between a DBA and a PhD in Business Administration

If you’re wondering what the difference between a DBA program and an online PhD in Business Administration is, the answer to this question is actually fairly simple.

While both fall into the classification of terminal degrees, a DBA stands as a professional advancement for an individual who works in the corporate or private sector. A PhD is usually reserved for someone who remains in academia seeking tenure as a professor or otherwise engaging in theoretical research.

As far as your salary potential goes, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that the average wage for management occupations was around $105,660, and that securing an advanced degree, such as a DBA, will have the best job prospects. On the other hand, pursuing a PhD in this field and taking on the role of a professor at an institute of higher education brings average salary to $87,200.

Are Online DBA Programs Accredited?

Yes. The majority of online DBA programs are accredited.

Different universities have varying levels ranging from National accreditation (which is acceptable, but not preferred) to Regional accreditation, which is the gold standard of accreditation.

Regional Accreditation

You’ll want to attend a university that is regionally accredited to ensure the highest standards of quality.

Here’s a list of the regional accreditors:

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Business School Accreditation

These three governing bodies oversee and accredit business schools.

• Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
• Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
• International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE)

Attending an accredited university can provide you with an extra level of quality assurance and accountability as you move through your professional career.

Online DBA Programs – AACSB Accreditation

If you’ve reached the point in your career where you are considering a Doctorate of Business Administration, you don’t want to stumble across the academic finish line with a garbage degree-mill certificate; you want a DBA from one of the top online DBA programs.

You should be ready for the academic rigor with the accompanying prestige and willing to go the extra mile to succeed.

These exacting standards are incredibly beneficial if you have aspirations for a CEO position. According to the 2016 Financial Times article, From MBA to CEO , 96% of chief executives attended an AACSB-accredited school.

You don’t necessarily have to attend an AACSB-accredited school to get a good education. In many cases, AACSB universities are much more costly while providing the same level of education as other institutions. The question is what position you want when you graduate and whether the prestige of AACSB can help you achieve it.

Online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Admission Requirements

A Doctor of Business Administration program sets the bar high, preparing you to take on new business challenges and complex situations.

Typical requirements for admission in a DBA include:

• A master’s degree from an accredited university
• Letters of recommendation
• A statement of purpose
• Proof of English Proficiency (if English is not your native language)
• A copy of your resume
• GMAT (some universities require GMAT scores, while others do not)

As you search for suitable DBA programs, begin compiling the necessary documents for your DBA admission so that you can move efficiently through the enrollment process.

Graduation Requirements for Doctoral Business Degrees

Figuring out how to get a business degree can be overwhelming, but completing your DBA course can feel like the cherry on top of your corporate sundae. To achieve that final seal of approval, there are a few graduation requirements to fulfill.

The specific prerequisite or requirements will vary from school to school, but there is generally an expectation of a minimum GPA of 3.0, successful completion of all courses, and submission of a final project or dissertation. All these requirements usually must be completed within 8 years unless you petition for an extension.

Financial Aid

Though doctoral students might not have as many opportunities for financial aid as undergrads, the federal government does still offer aid to graduate students . Options may include deferred-payment loans, grants, and work-study programs.

Other avenues to explore include scholarships, grants, fellowships, and tuition reimbursement from your university, employer, or other private organizations. Many of these sources of funding are merit-based or rely on demographic matching.

How Do You Get a Doctor of Business Administration?

Similar to online MBA programs , earning your DBA can occur through two primary paths of learning, the traditional route that keeps you on campus and in the classroom and via an online program.

While sticking to conventional campus-based learning is perfectly fine, this method doesn’t always line up with the group that is most likely to work toward this kind of degree – established business professionals who want to conquer a new intellectual challenge and bolster their resumes for future leadership opportunities.

Online programs cater more toward this audience and provide the flexibility needed to accomplish this goal, all while balancing the myriad other responsibilities that come with maintaining daily job requirements.

Are There Any Online DBA Programs Without a Residency Requirement?

At this stage of the game, being a part of the campus environment may feel like more of a distraction than a benefit. Going to campus to complete your classes may feel like something you have to endure so that you can move on with your degree.

But there is hope!

Fully online DBA programs allow you to complete your entire DBA without ever stepping foot on campus. Because they do not have a residency requirement, a fully online DBA program provides a degree of flexibility if you are still working full-time jobs or trying to juggle other responsibilities.

What Are Executive DBA Programs Online?

If you are looking to take your business leadership to the next level , an Executive DBA may be a great fit for you. An executive DBA can help equip you as an executive leader to broaden your knowledge and performance while building a deeper understanding of how to address complex business challenges as a thought leader and recognized expert in your field.

An executive DBA is a part-time doctoral program designed to increase understanding in both standard business practices as well as complex industry and organizational challenges. A potentially great way to utilize your 10+ years of business leadership is through a hybrid online/on-campus DBA through an AACSB-accredited university like Drexel University .

As an experienced business professional, an Executive DBA can help you distinguish yourself as you move towards C-suite leadership.

What Are the Cheapest Online DBA Programs?

You may be ready to embark on your online DBA adventure, but just like every student ever, the question is: what will be the most affordable DBA program worth getting?

The problem is that choosing an affordable online DBA program is not a cut-and-dry solution with only one answer. A lot of the cost will depend on the university, but several universities, such as Liberty University, offer lower tuition for those who have served in the military. Their discounted rate could put them below the cost of another university that charges less than Liberty’s normal cost per credit.

As you’re narrowing down your school choices, be sure to check into their costs, discounts, scholarships, and other financial aid opportunities.

Do Online DBA Program Rankings Matter?

If you have spent any time researching the best online DBA programs, you are probably well aware of the U.S. News Best College Rankings, the prestigious list of top universities and those that didn’t measure up.

U.S. News ranks 1,400 colleges and universities based on key metrics, including graduation rates, faculty resources, expert opinions from top academics, financial resources, student excellence, and alumni giving.

With such an extensive list of colleges and universities, you may be wondering if the U.S. News rankings are actually a valuable resource or just a popularity contest?

Take a recent article by Jay Matthews in the American Council on Education , where he passionately argued that a high-ranking college does not set you up for success, nor does a middling one decrease your worth. According to Matthews, what determines your success after college is not a U.S. News ranking, but what you do with your life.

But then Forbes suggests that a college ranking system can be valuable as it allows potential students to gather information about a plethora of schools without personally visiting and researching each school. A quick glance of the rankings can reveal how the schools in proximity to you fared, or what your odds of being accepted into MIT are for example.

Are There Any Online DBA Programs Without a Dissertation?

Completing your Doctorate may feel unending when you consider the time and effort you will put into writing a dissertation as part of your doctoral research.

However, some universities allow you to complete an online DBA program without a dissertation ! Some universities allow students to complete a final project for an online doctorate (that is often more practical) instead of a more theoretical and time-consuming dissertation. Check the list of schools below.

Are There Any Online DBA Programs Without a GMAT Requirement?

Does the thought of writing a long exam like the GMAT make you feel anxious? Or are you wondering if your GMAT scores will prevent you from getting into a DBA program?

Some universities do not require a GMAT or GRE exam for admission , or they will even waive the GMAT if you have a specific minimum GPA from your previous academic records. Check the list of schools below to see if they require test scores or not.

Is a Doctor of Business Administration Worth It?

At the end of the day, answering this question is about understanding your professional and personal goals. Are you driven to overcome every educational hurdle in your path? Do you need this type of degree to reach the next level of your professional career?

The important thing to keep in mind here is that answering these questions now can save you unnecessary expense and effort down the road.

Similarly, if you’re just looking to get your foot in the door of the academic world and teach introductory courses, a master’s degree in business is often enough to accomplish this goal.

Take the Next Step

Getting your Doctor of Business Administration online can help you set yourself apart in the corporate world while still managing your commitments in your workplace and at home.

But first, choosing your area of specialty and the school you’ll attend from the wide variety of online DBA programs will require careful thought and research.

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Online Doctorate of Business Administration

Advance Your Career by Earning Your DBA Degree at UM-Flint

The Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) degree from the University of Michigan-Flint is ideal for mid-level managers or executives who want to grow in leadership roles and those who want to transition to academia. 

Accelerate your career with the fully online DBA program. You can achieve your degree in three years at a part-time pace. This flexible format empowers you to earn your graduate degree without disrupting your current career. 

Whether you want to upgrade your theoretical understanding or gain experience in applied research, UM-Flint’s DBA degree facilitates skills acquisition and provides high-value, collaborative relationships with peers and world-class faculty that encourage your growth as a leader in business.

On This Page

• Program Highlights
• Online Doctorate of Business Administration Curriculum
• Career Outlook
• Admission Process and Cost

Why Earn Your DBA Degree at UM-Flint?

Craft innovative solutions to real-world problems.

Harness your industrious nature in UM-Flint’s online DBA program, and receive intensive training in evidence-based decision-making, theory application, and research methods. Learn how to address strategic issues with actionable insights and enact position change in organizational performance.

Promote Practical Theory Application

The DBA program curriculum encourages you to put your theoretical knowledge into practice through action-based, hands-on learning. Whether you implement your classroom theory to work in your current place of employment or a new career role, you grow as a global-minded problem solver equipped with transferable skills and effective solutions in an ever-changing workforce.

Research Opportunities

Improve your critical thinking and analytical skills by participating in enterprising research opportunities. Play an active role in resolving problems related to strategic behavior, evaluating issues related to competitive advantage, and addressing a firm’s efficiencies and performance.

Achieve Your Career Goals

Use your DBA degree to advance your career and promotional prospects further. Your DBA degree prepares you to strengthen your position within your industry, as well as broaden your repertoire of theoretical models, frameworks, and methodological techniques that provide a new, research-based perspective.

Outstanding International Accreditation

UM-Flint’s Doctor of Business Administration program is the first and only AACSB International-accredited program in the state of Michigan. Not only does this distinguished recognition set our program apart from other universities, but it also ensures the quality and value of our DBA degree.

Online DBA Curriculum

The online DBA program emphasizes business strategy and research, ensuring you are equipped with the necessary research methodologies, interpersonal and communication skills, and an understanding of the global economy to be an innovator in business. 

Because a strong business strategy incorporates expertise from various fields, our DBA degree prioritizes an interdisciplinary approach and draws upon UM-Flint faculty’s diverse wealth of knowledge and experience. Faculty from the School of Management and visiting professors offer varied approaches and perspectives, which provide you with a comprehensive understanding of firm strategy and performance in a global economy. This attention to business strategy is a distinguishing factor of our DBA program and strengthens your business instincts. 

Additionally, our curriculum utilizes an applied research model, which means all seminars focus on a theory-to-practice model. The purpose of this model is to train scholars who excel not only in the classroom but also in the real world. As a graduate of the DBA program, you become skillful in putting theoretical knowledge into practice and yielding tangible, high-value results.  Review the DBA program curriculum .

(Foundations: Theory & Research Methods) Fall semester (two 3-credit-hour seminars; one 1-credit-hour introductory seminar)

• MGT 701 – Becoming an Applied Researcher (first five weeks of semester)
• MGT 702 – Applied Research Methods & Design  
• MGT 782 – Contemporary Theories of Strategy

Winter semester (two 3-credit-hour seminars)

• SCM 712 – Applied Qualitative Methods (3) 
• MGT 783 – Global Strategy (3)

Summer 2 semester (one 3-credit-hour seminar)

• SCM 711 – Applied Quantitative Methods

(Applications: Concepts & Contexts) Summer 3 semester (one 3-credit-hour seminar)

• MKT 738 – Marketing Strategy

Fall semester (two 3-credit-hour seminars)

• ACC 702 – Managerial Accounting & Firm Performance 
• SCM 779 – Supply Chain Strategy
• MGT 749 – Strategic Leadership & Change Management 
• MGT 752 – Nonmarket Strategy
• MKT 737 – Big Data & the Firm

(Research Project: Dissertation) Summer 3 semester (one 3-credit-hour seminar)

• MGT 800 – Dissertation Design & Proposal

Fall semester (6-credit-hour dissertation)

• MGT 801 – Dissertation I

Winter semester (6-credit-hour dissertation)

• MGT 802 – Dissertation II & Dissertation Defense

Academic Advising

UM-Flint’s advisors support you as you navigate your doctoral journey. Email or call Anna Swartz, DBA program administrative assistant, at [email protected] or (810)424-5587   to discuss your plan to pursue a DBA degree.

Career Outlook with a Doctorate Degree in Business Administration

Designed for working professionals, such as consultants, analysts, and college lecturers, the DBA online program provides opportunities for you to build upon your rich real-world experience and equip yourself with new skills and strategies.

Whether you are looking to tackle leadership opportunities in your current field or pursue a new career path, earning your doctorate in business administration equips you to work in positions like:

• Top executive
• Management analyst
• Postsecondary teacher

With the strong strategic instincts you develop, you become a competitive candidate in an industry that promises steady employment growth, skill acquisition, and increased earning potential.

Admission Requirements

UM-Flint seeks out applicants who meet the following requirements:

• Hold a master’s degree in the arts, sciences, engineering, or business administration from a regionally accredited institution , or have exceptional professional experience (e.g., CEO of a Fortune 1000 company or other such experience)
• Have at least 10 years of progressive business experience with a minimum of five years of executive, mid-level management, consultancy, technical, or college teaching experience.

How to Apply

To apply to our online doctorate in business administration program, please submit the following materials:

• Application for Graduate Admission .
• $55 application fee (nonrefundable).
• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Please read our full  transcript policy for more information.
• For any degree completed at a non-US institution, transcripts must be submitted for an internal credential review.  Read the following  for instructions on how to submit your transcripts for review.
• If English is not your native language, and if you are not from an exempt country , you must demonstrate
• Résumé or curriculum vitae.
• Statement of Purpose: a one-page, typed response detailing interest in the program.
• A minimum of two letters of recommendation (industry and/or academic).
• Students from abroad must submit additional documentation .

Email all other application materials to [email protected] or deliver them to the Office of Graduate Programs .

Because this program is fully online, admitted students are not able to obtain a student (F-1) visa to pursue this degree. However, students outside the US may complete this program online in their home country. Other nonimmigrant visa holders currently in the United States should contact the Center for Global Engagement .

The Director of the DBA program may contact applicants to schedule an interview if deemed necessary.

Application Deadlines

Enrollment in the online DBA program is limited, and the admission process is selective and competitive. UM-Flint gives preference to applicants judged best qualified to succeed. 

• Fall semester early deadline: November 1
• Fall semester final deadline: April 1 

Applications completed by November 1 are considered for early admission to the fall cohort of the following year and receive one of the three following decisions: 1) Admission, 2) Denial, or 3) Deferral until the April 1 final deadline (this is utilized if you meet admission requirements but are not a competitive applicant for early admittance). 

Applications completed by April 1 are considered for regular admission for the fall cohort of the current year.

Once accepted, students must pay a $2,000 nonrefundable enrollment deposit, reserving a seat in a cohort. We then apply the nonrefundable deposit toward tuition for the program’s first semester.

Estimated Tuition and Cost

At UM-Flint, we pride ourselves on an outstanding doctoral degree at a competitive price. 

Tuition for the DBA program is approximately $80,000 for 49 credit hours over three years.  Tuition rates are the same for Michigan residents and non-Michigan residents and remain consistent with your cohort, meaning your tuition does not increase during your time in the program. Learn more about our tuition and fees .

Accelerate Your Career With UM-Flint’s Online DBA Program

The online Doctorate of Business Administration program at the University of Michigan-Flint helps unlock your potential by equipping you with in-demand skills, critical research experience, and interdisciplinary business knowledge. 

Ready to build your skill set and tackle new challenges in the business world? Request more information , or begin your UM-Flint application today!

• Best Online DBA Degrees

Best Online DBA Degrees Of 2024

Updated: Nov 2, 2023, 4:46pm

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

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

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

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

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

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

Our Methodology

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

We scored schools based on the following categories:

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

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

Student Experience:

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

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

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

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Best Online DBA Degree Options

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

Graduate Tuition

$1,038/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

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

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

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

$1,250/credit

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

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

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

$1,275/credit

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

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

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

$2,088/credit

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

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

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

$785/credit

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

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

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

$748/credit

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

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

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

$993/credit

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

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

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

$795/credit

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

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

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

$965/credit

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

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

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

$595/credit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Institutional Accreditation

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

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

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

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

Programmatic Accreditation

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

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

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

Consider Your Future Goals

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

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

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

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

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

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

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

What is a DBA degree?

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

How long does an online DBA take?

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

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

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

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

How to Get a PhD or DBA in Finance

The pinnacle of business education, the PhD in Business, has long been overshadowed by the popular master of business administration (MBA). But doctorate-level business degrees–the PhD and Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)–are growing in popularity as the discipline steadily raises the bar for business school instructors and industry leaders. A PhD or DBA in Finance represents both mastery of the discipline and a significant contribution to academic theory and its application in business practice. Graduates typically go on to faculty positions in business schools or careers in corporate leadership and consulting.

An Overview of the PhD in Finance

Business schools originated around the turn of the twentieth century to satisfy demand for business leaders with advanced vocational training. By mid-century, 1950s through the 1960s, the leading business schools began to gravitate toward scientific research using social science methods. Today’s PhD programs in finance focus on applying the disciplines of economics, sociology, psychology, systems engineering, and mathematics to advance scholarly research in business. The advent of online doctorate degree programs has made it possible to earn a PhD or DBA in Finance at a flexible pace from anywhere with Internet access.

PhD in Finance vs DBA

The PhD in Finance is distinct from the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), a professional doctorate. DBA programs tend to have a heavier emphasis in vocational training. While PhD research focuses on advancing business knowledge, DBA projects apply existing theory to practical business problems. PhD and DBA in Finance degree programs are broadly similar, both requiring similar coursework, an exam, and a doctoral dissertation. The distinction between the two doctoral degrees becomes clear at the dissertation and job search phase. The PhD is a pathway into an academic career as a professor and university researcher. The degree may also lead into advanced consulting or research roles in business or public administration. The DBA can lead to a business school faculty position, but its applied curriculum has a more immediate application in corporate leadership and management or public-sector research.

PhD Career Track

Most PhD candidates head to academic careers, splitting their time between research and teaching. Career prospects for business faculty are strong, reflecting a persistent shortage of business PhDs. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the leading professional association and accreditation body for business schools, forecasts strong opportunity for aspiring business academics, with an estimated “2,400 new [faculty positions] opening by 2012.” About a third of doctoral program graduates go on to careers outside academia, often as business consultants or as senior-level researchers in the private or public sector.

How to Apply for Doctorate Programs in Finance

A doctoral degree in finance requires commitment and discipline. Programs can take four to six years to complete, so careful planning is crucial.

How to Choose a Program

The AACSB accredits nearly 600 business schools. Each doctoral program offers a unique slant on the discipline of finance, with different faculty specializations, courses, online and campus formats, and institutional resources. Which doctorate program in finance is right for you?

The following steps will help you research your options and find the business school that best matches your career goals. The below steps are outlined for a PhD program and also apply to those seeking a DBA.

Step One: The Fundamentals

Goal . Determine the fundamental qualities you need in a doctoral program. Online, searchable databases of business schools can help you build a list of schools that meet your baseline criteria.

Must-have features. Your career goals and life circumstances will dictate the non-negotiable features of your doctoral program.

• Accreditation . Accreditation by an independent authority is the fundamental measure of academic quality for any higher education institution. AACSB International is the premier international accreditation authority for business graduate programs, but you’ll also find schools accredited by regional authorities. Accreditation is a crucial safeguard of the value of your degree and could help you qualify for federal financial aid.
• Career Track: Academic or Professional? A clear sense of your career ambitions can help you decide whether to pursue a traditional academic research PhD or a broader professional doctorate. Some PhD in Finance programs track students directly into an academic teaching or research career. Other PhDs allow you to keep one foot in professional practice, with applied research that also advances business scholarship. These applied PhD in Finance programs track graduates into either faculty or professional research roles. For management and corporate leadership careers, consider a DBA in Finance.
• The online degree format features self-paced education mediated through computer technology. Online delivery is a popular choice for adults balancing work and family obligations alongside their doctoral work. Since the format attracts working professionals, online delivery tends to favor doctorate programs with an applied, professionalpractice emphasis. Aspiring business professionals will appreciate the opportunity to network with colleagues and carry out applied research projects in connection with their work. Online PhD in Finance programs also tend to attract faculty with industry experience, and prize innovative, forward-looking courses, curricula, and projects.
• The traditional campus format is a strong choice for PhD candidates with academic teaching and research ambitions. Campus programs offer ready access to on-site research facilities and teaching assistantships. Resident graduate students also forge strong relationships with faculty, who serve as mentors and research partners. Campus programs also tend to offer better support resources for candidates on the academic job market.
• A hybrid format combines the best of both worlds: students complete coursework and independent research online, and convene periodically on campus to consult with faculty advisors and take advantage of campus resources. These temporary residency periods vary from program to program.

Keep in mind that if you choose a campus or hybrid format, the school’s location will become a primary factor in your research.

• AACSB Accreditation. AACSB International maintains a searchable database of accredited institutions. Search by degree level, field of study, program format (online or campus), location, and more.
• Department of Education. The Department of Education maintains a list of authorized accreditation agencies. Consult this resource to verify the validity of regional accreditation.
• Online Directories. WorldWideLearn.com maintains a searchable online directory of accredited programs. You can search for online PhD programs, campus education options, or find a list schools in your area through the degrees by location function.

Step Two: Specializations

Goal . Focus your school search by gauging the direction of your scholarly interests. Networking with faculty and gradate associations can help you assess the strengths of different campus and online PhD in finance programs.

Specializations . Finance is a broad discipline with many specialized applications and areas of inquiry. Common specializations in finance may focus on a specific type or function of financial analysis, such as:

• Quantitative Finance, including Financial Modeling
• Financial Planning
• Applied Management and Decision Sciences
• Risk Management

Or the program may focus on a particular application of finance practice, such as:

• Corporate Finance
• Real Estate

Faculty. A school’s formal specialization areas offer a good starting point for determining the PhD programs’ strengths. But to find the best fit for your area of interest, go a step further and explore faculty research interests. The AACSB explains: “Students often incorrectly assume that all schools offer similar types of specializations and pay relatively little attention to the specific research interests of faculty.” Since faculty mentorship and collaborative research are essential to the PhD in Finance, it pays to find a faculty member whose research interests match your own.

• School Web sites . Graduate schools of business offer information about program specializations online. Course requirements and faculty vitas can help you glean the program’s strengths in a given specialization.
• Academic counselors . Business school counselors and can offer guidance about a school’s areas of specialization. WorldWideLearn.com streamlines the research process by putting you in touch with school representatives. You can fill out a form online and school representatives contact you by phone or email to answer your questions about the program. Communicating directly with school representatives and counselors saves time, enabling you to compare many programs.
• Network with faculty and graduate students . Professors and other graduate students can be a valuable resource in your school research. Your undergraduate instructors, for example, can direct you to faculty at other schools doing research in your area of interest. To meet faculty and graduate students at other colleges, attend department or industry networking events. Or visit the campus and meet with faculty one-on-one.
• Journal of Finance
• Journal of Financial Economics
• Journal of Money, Credit, and Banking
• Securities Regulation Law Journal

Step Three: Criteria and Evaluation

Goal . Narrow down your list of schools by evaluating their relative merits. Rankings and graduate performance data can help you determine which school presents the best value given your career goals.

Criteria . Take into account the following criteria to help you evaluate the finance doctoral programs on your list.

• Reputation . How selective is the school? Where does it stand in the rankings?
• Job Placement . The placement history data of recent doctoral graduates can help you gauge the value of the degree on the job market. Many schools report how many graduates took academic vs. non-academic jobs, how many received tenure, and even starting salaries.
• Graduation Rate . How many graduate students complete the program? What kind of support services does the school offer?
• Resources . Consider the availability of libraries, research facilities, software and technology, and teaching assistantships.
• Funding. Many PhD students are eligible for stipends and tuition grants. Explore the availability of scholarships, teaching assistant positions, student loans, and other funding sources. Finally, evaluate the total cost of your investment, taking into account the cost of living, tuition, and the expected time to completion of the degree.
• Financial Times
• The Wall Street Journal
• BusinessWeek
• EIU Economist Intelligence Unit

In view of the diversity in rankings, Financial Times has initiated a master ranking that collates results from all the major sources.

• Campus Visit . A campus visit can be especially helpful in the final stages of the selection process. Plan to meet with admissions counselors, faculty members with whom you might want to work, and other graduate students.
• Online Resources . WorldWideLearn.com offers general information on graduate education funding. In addition, you can find answers to your questions via the Education Advisor resource.

How to Prepare for the PhD Program in Finance

Once you’ve narrowed down your list to four or five prospective doctoral degree programs in finance, you’re ready to begin the application process. Most PhD programs in finance require the following:

• Prerequisite Degrees and Courses . A bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field is the standard prerequisite for a PhD program. Most finance PhD programs do not require a master’s degree or MBA. If you do not have a basic academic background in business, you may have to satisfy course prerequisites before proceeding.
• Work Experience . Since many finance doctoral students work before entering the program, it’s common to submit a resume detailing work experience.
• Test Scores . Many doctoral programs require standardized tests such as the GMAT (Graduate Management Admissions Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination).
• Recommendation Letters . Assemble recommendation letters from professional colleagues or undergraduate professors who can attest to your academic or work abilities.

Aiming for a Career in Finance

Besides lining up these practical requirements, you can facilitate the application process by developing a specific sense of your research and career goals.

• Academic Careers. Graduate of DBA and PhD in Finance programs are finding particular opportunity on the academic job market, which is chronically short of qualified candidates to fill faculty positions. About fourteen percent of business school faculty members have a finance background. Finance professors generally earn about fifteen percent more than their colleagues in other business fields.
• Professional Careers. Finance PhDs can also find demand for their research and analytical expertise in organizational consulting and research. Business and government employers value graduates of finance PhD programs for work in financial projections, business strategy, consumer behavior, and other areas.

As the highest academic achievement in the field, the PhD in Finance opens doors to a variety of research, teaching, and consulting roles. Lay the foundation for success today, and you’re sure to discover a world of career opportunity tomorrow.

• AACSB International–The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, 2009-2009 U.S. Salary Report
• BestBizSchools.com, AACSB Accredited Business Schools Database
• AACSB International–The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, Becoming a Business Professor
• Financial Times, Business Education , by Della Bradshaw
• BusinessWeek, Business PhD Applications on the Rise , by Alison Damast
• AACSB International–The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, Doctoral Education Resource Center
• BestBizSchools.com, Doctoral Programs in Finance
• Stanford Graduate School of Business, Finance PhD Program
• University of Wisconsin, PhD in Finance
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Why consider a DBA degree?

The DBA is a professional doctorate that enables students to develop in-depth business expertise. Master's degrees often do not provide the level of skill development needed to tackle today's complex and rapidly changing global business environment. A DBA provides students with the advanced skills to perform at a higher level in their industries, contribute to organizational knowledge and effectiveness, conduct applied research, and/or transition to an academic career.

How does the DBA compare to a Ph.D.?

While the Ph.D. tends to focus heavily on theory, the DBA is designed for practitioners and business professionals to apply to real-world challenges. The DBA curriculum is integrative in nature. Featuring content-area courses in all business functions, as well as the fundamentals of business research and statistics, students will see how business functions interact and affect the workplace. In contrast, the Ph.D. often encourages students to become specialists in narrowly-focused areas.

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Our Doctorate of Business Administration is a 60-credit program that allows professionals to maintain their full-time careers and complete their degree in three years. Students attend classes one weekend each month for two years, and engage in online interactions in between classes. After two years of coursework, students complete a dissertation that contributes to business practice. The cohort model has proved to be an important source of perspective, networking, and support for our students.

As the largest AACSB-accredited business school in the region, UW-Whitewater offers excellent facilities, as well as highly-qualified and credentialed faculty working on a wide range of projects and internationally-recognized research. All this is offered through one of the most cost-effective AACSB-accredited Doctorate of Business Administration programs in the United States.

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Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Finance

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Advance your career opportunities and enhance your research, decision-making, leadership and analytical skills in SHU’s three-year, low-residency DBA in finance program. Continue working full time as you earn your degree. Combine rigorous quantitative and qualitative applied research methods, theory and professional experience to solve practical problems.

Why Earn Your DBA in Finance at Sacred Heart?

In this pioneering program, you will continue to explore your passions; advance your career opportunities; and enhance your decision-making, leadership and management skills. This three-year, low-residency program is designed to allow you to continue working your full-time job as you earn your degree. Be part of SHU's  Jack Welch College of Business & Technology , one of fewer than five percent of elite business schools worldwide accredited by AACSB International.

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

When you earn your Doctor of Business Administration in Finance at Sacred Heart, you will:

• Complete in-depth coursework that covers extensive quantitative methods and mathematical modeling, global financial markets and institutions and advanced risk management
• Acquire advanced knowledge in finance and gain research skills for conducting independent, complex financial projects
• Gain global perspective on issues related to financial markets and institutions
• Create a specialized, original dissertation research project matching your interests and career aspirations
• Benefit from a unique student cohort model, hands-on learning laboratories and blended meeting formats that encourage collaboration and networking
• Learn from accomplished, recognized faculty with a record of prestigious scholarship and professional experience
• Develop and appreciate the high ethical standards and values that are integral for finance professionals

Meet our DBA Cohorts

Graduate from the DBA in Finance program with expertise that combines research and application

Graduates of this program stand out in a competitive market and achieve leadership positions in:

• Academic institutions
• Financial management
• Quantitative analysis
• Investments
• Risk management
• Regulatory compliance

Doctor of Business Administration in Finance

DBA alumni enjoy an event hosted by the Office of Alumni Engagement.

Students and faculty connecting at a DBA reception.

DBA alumni connect at a reception.

DBA students work collaboratively in a small cohort.

DBA students engaging in hands-on classwork.

DBA students participate in a discussion.

Professor Lucjan Orlowski teaching DBA students.

DBA students meet in the Finance Lab at the Welch College of Business & Technology.

Professor Walker Hughen teaching mathematical statics to DBA students .

STEM Designated Program

This is a STEM-designated program, which means you will be trained in areas of technology that are in high demand with U.S. employers. This program allows international students with F1 visas to extend their OPT in the U.S. by 24 months after graduating (36 months in total).

Keep your finger on the pulse of global business and finance.  Apply  for your Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Finance today.

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25 Most Affordable Online MBAs for 2024

Earning an MBA can yield great returns professionally and financially. Business school graduates regularly see six-figure salaries with opportunities for sign-on bonuses and promotions. But fronting the initial cost of the degree can be challenging, with the costs of some programs totaling tens of thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of dollars. For those seeking more inexpensive ways to earn their MBA, Fortune has compiled a list of the 25 most affordable online MBA programs. This list was compiled using data provided by schools for our Best Online MBA Programs list. For schools that provided the cost per credit instead of the annual or total tuition, we multiplied cost per credit by the number credit hours required to graduate from that program. This ranking was last updated September 2022.

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Maryville University Master of Business Administration | Online

1. Louisiana Tech University

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2. University of Texas of the Permian Basin

3. Southeast Missouri State University (Harrison)

The Online MBA From Syracuse University

4. University of Louisiana–Lafayette BI Moody III College of Business Administration

5. West Texas A&M University

6. University of Southern Indiana

7. Texas A&M University–Kingsville

8. missouri state university college of business, the online mba from rice business.

9. Delta State University

10. Troy University

11. University of Louisiana–Monroe

12. Dakota Wesleyan University

13. Auburn University–Montgomery

UNC Kenan-Flagler’s top-ranked online MBA

14. Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania (Grove)

15. Southern Utah University

16. University of Central Missouri (Harmon)

17. University of Alabama–Birmingham

• Did not provide

18. Morehead State University

19. University of Southern Mississippi

20. Campbellsville University

21. University of North Carolina–Wilmington Cameron School of Business

22. Fayetteville State University

23. Lindenwood University

24. University of Maine

25. University of Massachusetts–Lowell

With tuition of slightly less than $9,000, Louisiana Tech University ranked as the most affordable online MBA—or best budget online MBA—among Fortune ’s ranking. Another 10 schools offer tuition of less than $15,000 and the  University of Dubuque also recently announced an online MBA program that costs less than $15,000 .

The average cost of an online MBA can vary widely, from just under $9,000 to nearly $80,000. When considering the most affordable online MBA programs, however, there are 25 options that all come in with tuition of less than $20,000. Because many online MBA programs are designed to be completed while working part- or full-time, that allows students to continue earning while enrolled—potentially reducing some of the financial burden of going back to school.

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The following materials must be submitted in order to apply for the program:

• Completed online application
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• This statement does not have to be very long (about one page or so). We just like to know why you are applying for our program, what you hope to get out of it, and what your goals are after you graduate with the degree.
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As an international student, you must submit an acceptable score on the  Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) ,  International English Language Testing System (IELTS) , or  Duolingo .

See admission requirements for international students for more information.

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Gagarin Cup Preview: Atlant vs. Salavat Yulaev

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Gagarin cup (khl) finals:  atlant moscow oblast vs. salavat yulaev ufa.

Much like the Elitserien Finals, we have a bit of an offense vs. defense match-up in this league Final.  While Ufa let their star top line of Alexander Radulov, Patrick Thoresen and Igor Grigorenko loose on the KHL's Western Conference, Mytischi played a more conservative style, relying on veterans such as former NHLers Jan Bulis, Oleg Petrov, and Jaroslav Obsut.  Just reaching the Finals is a testament to Atlant's disciplined style of play, as they had to knock off much more high profile teams from Yaroslavl and St. Petersburg to do so.  But while they did finish 8th in the league in points, they haven't seen the likes of Ufa, who finished 2nd. 

This series will be a challenge for the underdog, because unlike some of the other KHL teams, Ufa's top players are generally younger and in their prime.  Only Proshkin amongst regular blueliners is over 30, with the work being shared by Kirill Koltsov (28), Andrei Kuteikin (26), Miroslav Blatak (28), Maxim Kondratiev (28) and Dmitri Kalinin (30).  Oleg Tverdovsky hasn't played a lot in the playoffs to date.  Up front, while led by a fairly young top line (24-27), Ufa does have a lot of veterans in support roles:  Vyacheslav Kozlov , Viktor Kozlov , Vladimir Antipov, Sergei Zinovyev and Petr Schastlivy are all over 30.  In fact, the names of all their forwards are familiar to international and NHL fans:  Robert Nilsson , Alexander Svitov, Oleg Saprykin and Jakub Klepis round out the group, all former NHL players.

For Atlant, their veteran roster, with only one of their top six D under the age of 30 (and no top forwards under 30, either), this might be their one shot at a championship.  The team has never won either a Russian Superleague title or the Gagarin Cup, and for players like former NHLer Oleg Petrov, this is probably the last shot at the KHL's top prize.  The team got three extra days rest by winning their Conference Final in six games, and they probably needed to use it.  Atlant does have younger regulars on their roster, but they generally only play a few shifts per game, if that. 

The low event style of game for Atlant probably suits them well, but I don't know how they can manage to keep up against Ufa's speed, skill, and depth.  There is no advantage to be seen in goal, with Erik Ersberg and Konstantin Barulin posting almost identical numbers, and even in terms of recent playoff experience Ufa has them beat.  Luckily for Atlant, Ufa isn't that far away from the Moscow region, so travel shouldn't play a major role. 

I'm predicting that Ufa, winners of the last Superleague title back in 2008, will become the second team to win the Gagarin Cup, and will prevail in five games.  They have a seriously well built team that would honestly compete in the NHL.  They represent the potential of the league, while Atlant represents closer to the reality, as a team full of players who played themselves out of the NHL. 

• Atlant @ Ufa, Friday Apr 8 (3:00 PM CET/10:00 PM EST)
• Atlant @ Ufa, Sunday Apr 10 (1:00 PM CET/8:00 AM EST)
• Ufa @ Atlant, Tuesday Apr 12 (5:30 PM CET/12:30 PM EST)
• Ufa @ Atlant, Thursday Apr 14 (5:30 PM CET/12:30 PM EST)

Games 5-7 are as yet unscheduled, but every second day is the KHL standard, so expect Game 5 to be on Saturday, like an early start. 

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