A doctor of business administration degree offers advanced training for careers at the executive level. Learn more about earning a DBA degree.
Professionals with a doctor of business administration degree work as corporate executives, company presidents, CEOs, and business leaders. But what is a DBA degree, and what are the benefits of earning one? Our insider’s guide walks through everything you should know before going back to business school. A doctorate in business administration is the highest degree granted by business schools. The degree emphasizes career-focused skills for graduate students seeking leadership positions in diverse industries. Compared to a research-focused Ph.D. in business, a DBA emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications. While a Ph.D. largely leads to research and academic jobs, a DBA prepares graduates for careers as a CEO, company president, or corporate executive. Before enrolling in a DBA program, applicants must hold a master’s in business. Most complete an MBA as preparation for the higher-level, more focused DBA. After earning an MBA, for example, professionals might pursue a DBA to gain doctoral-level training in their specialization. While some programs require or expect relevant professional experience, others do not. Before applying to doctoral programs in business, prospective students must consider the time and money required to earn a DBA degree. Business schools charge around $500-$1,000 per credit for a doctor of business administration degree. Depending on the school and the total number of credits, you should expect to spend at least $30,000 earning a DBA degree. Most DBA programs take around three years to complete for full-time students. Part-time students may spend four to five years earning their degree. Why do professionals enroll in DBA programs? The best doctorates in business administration help professionals add marketable skills, network with people in their field, and pursue promotions.
