The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a professional doctorate focused on applying research to real-world business challenges and preparing individuals for leadership roles in organizations. The PhD in Business Administration, on the other hand, is a research-focused degree designed for individuals interested in academia, teaching, or conducting advanced business research. While both programs emphasize leadership and strategic thinking, the PhD is ideal for those who wish to contribute to business theory and academic research.

An EdD (Doctor of Education) and a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) both represent the pinnacle of academic achievement, yet they serve distinct purposes. An EdD is a professional doctorate designed for leaders focused on practical, applied solutions within educational, nonprofit, corporate, and government sectors. It emphasizes using research to drive transformational change and improve organizational performance. A PhD, on the other hand, is a research-oriented degree that prepares scholars to contribute original knowledge to their field. PhD students typically pursue careers in academia, research, or higher-level analysis, focusing on advancing theory and research-based insights in their area of study.

While all doctoral programs require a dissertation, the process is tailored to the specific program. For example, the DBA dissertation focuses on applied research that addresses real-world business issues, while the PhD in Business Administration dissertation is more theoretical and contributes new knowledge to the field. In the PhD and EdD in Leadership in Innovation and Continuous Improvement programs student select a dissertation topic to further their professional pursuits. The LICI PhD dissertation is more theoretical and contributes new knowledge to the field, and the LICI EdD dissertation is more applied in nature.

All of our doctorate programs are primarily online, offering you the flexibility to complete your degree while balancing professional and personal commitments. As part of the program, you’ll participate in two in-person residencies, providing valuable opportunities to collaborate in person with your peers and instructors. These residencies foster deeper engagement, enhance your learning experience, and build strong connections within your professional network. Throughout the rest of your program, you’ll have access to online resources, expert faculty, and student support services to guide you every step of the way. .

We offer comprehensive support throughout your dissertation journey, including:

• Expert Faculty Guidance: Work one-on-one with faculty who are leaders in their fields to refine your research topic and methodology.

• Dedicated Advisors: Receive continuous feedback and advice from faculty advisors to keep you on track.

• Writing Resources: Access writing workshops, research tools, and editorial support to ensure your dissertation meets academic standards.

Our graduates pursue a variety of high-level careers. DBA graduates typically move into executive roles such as CEO, COO, or business consultant, while PhD in Business Administration graduates often pursue careers in academia or advanced consulting. Graduates of the PhD and EdD in Leadership in Innovation and Continuous Improvement lead continuous improvement initiatives in sectors like education, healthcare, and business.

Yes, financial aid is available for all doctoral programs. You can apply for federal loans and scholarships by completing the FAFSA and exploring financial aid resources specific to your field. Our financial aid advisors can assist you in determining the best options for financing your education.

You can find detailed information about the costs for each program on our Tuition & Financial Aid page, including estimated total costs and available financial aid options.

The time to completion varies depending on the program and your individual pace. On average, students complete the programs in three to four years. Additionally, you may be able to transfer up to 30 credit hours from previous graduate coursework, potentially reducing the time needed to complete your degree. The flexibility of the online format allows you to progress at your own pace, making it easier to balance your studies with other commitments. Per university policy, doctoral degrees must be completed within seven years of start date.