DBA vs. PhD in Business Administration: Which is Right for You?

Earning a doctoral degree is a significant step toward advancing your career, deepening your expertise, and positioning yourself to make a lasting impact in your field. At Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW), we offer two online doctoral programs designed for professionals seeking to make a lasting impact in business. But how do you choose the right path?

This article will compare the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) vs. the PhD in Business Administration while highlighting the flexibility of our online format.

Both the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and PhD in Business Administration prepare students for leadership in the business world, but they differ in focus and career applications:

DBA: Scholar Practitioners

• Ideal for professionals seeking executive-level roles, consulting positions, or business ownership
• Focuses on practical applications of business research
• Equips students with real-world problem-solving skills
• Common career paths:
  • C-suite executive (CEO, CFO, COO)
  • Senior business consultant
  • Entrepreneur/business owner

PhD in Business Administration: Academic & Research Excellence

• Best suited for individuals pursuing teaching or research-based careers
• Focuses on theoretical research and contributing to academic knowledge
• Prepares students for university faculty positions and research leadership
• Common career paths:
  • University professor
  • Business research analyst
  • Corporate policy advisor

Why Choose an Online Doctoral Program at CUW?

Concordia University Wisconsin’s online doctoral programs offer the flexibility working professionals need to balance their continued education, career, and personal commitments. 

Our programs provide:

• Online Format: Study anytime, anywhere with a flexible schedule
• On-Campus Residencies: Attend two, three-day residencies that provide opportunities for in-person engagement with peers, faculty, and staff, focusing on networking, academic discussions, and advancing dissertation research.
• Expert Faculty: Learn from experienced business and leadership professionals
• Career-Focused Curriculum: Gain skills that directly apply to your current and future roles with both programs being 60 credit hours
• Dissertation Support: Unique process that begins in your first term allowing you to work at your own pace
• Supportive Community: Connect with faculty and peers in a collaborative online environment

Take the Next Step

Whether you aspire to lead organizations, conduct groundbreaking research, teach at the university level, or influence business policy, Concordia University Wisconsin offers two distinguished online doctoral programs to help you achieve your goals. The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is tailored for experienced professionals looking to advance into executive leadership roles, with two specialized concentration options. The PhD in Business Administration is ideal for those passionate about research, organizational improvement, and employee development. Both programs equip you with the expertise to make a lasting impact in the business world. We hope this guide has helped you determine the best path for your future.

Apply now to take the next step toward becoming the compassionate and effective business professional needed in today’s fast-paced world.