can you get a phd for business

Earning A Doctor Of Business Administration: What To Know Before You Enroll

Updated: Feb 16, 2023, 7:08am

Successful business executives are defined by their ability to solve pressing, real-world issues with accurate data and precise strategy. If you’re a business professional looking to enhance your career, a doctor of business administration (DBA) can offer a robust intellectual framework for navigating industry trends and organizational management.

Geared toward business leaders of the future, a DBA is a terminal business administration degree that offers immersive training in business analytics and applied research methods. The following guide outlines the details of doctoral programs in business administration and potential career pathways for graduates.

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What Does a Doctor of Business Administration Entail?

A DBA is a doctoral degree catered to business professionals with management experience and a master’s degree. DBA programs are research-oriented and train students to use critical, analytical methods to explore questions and develop solutions in their respective organizations and the field at large.

Some DBA programs are offered exclusively online. Others require in-person attendance through recurring weekend residencies. Most programs begin in the fall, but you should check in with your prospective school to see if it offers rolling admissions and enrollment. DBA degrees tend to be flexible and accommodate the schedules of students with full-time jobs.

Is a DBA the Same as a Ph.D. in Business Administration?

A DBA is different from a Ph.D. in business administration, and many institutions offer both degrees.

Both of these degrees require students to produce original research. DBA programs usually run part time and bolster working professionals’ methodological skills and problem-solving capacities.

A Ph.D. in business administration is a full-time, research-intensive degree geared toward students seeking academic careers—often in teaching or scholarship—or non-academic roles that require expertise in research techniques.

Doctorate of Business Administration Admission Requirements

The admissions process for a DBA program is relatively standard, though precise requirements may vary among programs. To qualify for a DBA or Ph.D. program, prospective students should hold a master’s degree and prepare to submit the following:

• Application fee
• Transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Additional essay prompt(s)

Applicants may have to complete admissions interviews, as well. Note that standardized tests like the GMAT or GRE are more commonly required for Ph.D. programs than DBA programs.

Courses in a Doctor of Business Administration Program

Most DBA programs entail about 60 credits, covering core class requirements, research methods credits and development classes for a research project. Depending on the program’s instruction format, classes can be offered in person or online via asynchronous or synchronous modalities.

A Ph.D. also requires about 60 credits beyond the master’s level. Ph.D. students must typically declare a concentration in an area such as accounting, finance, organizational behavior or international business. This focus area determines a Ph.D. student’s course trajectory. Given the interactive and collaborative nature of this research degree, Ph.D. students should expect to complete a residency as part of their program.

Note that in addition to credit requirements, DBA and Ph.D. programs typically require dissertations and comprehensive exam(s) in students’ selected topics. Most students complete DBA requirements in three years. The Ph.D. option takes about five years to complete. That said, completion times vary considerably among doctoral programs.

Core courses in a business administration doctoral program might include the following.

Financial Reporting

A course in financial reporting may cover the basics of financial accounting and forecasting. Students learn to use accounting analytics tools and discuss the value and perceived impact of reporting for a business.

Accounting and Multinational Enterprises

This course explores international accounting through a multinational, cultural lens. Studying content related to foreign transactions, taxation and financial statements, students review an array of accounting standards in an increasingly globalized world.

Sociology of Corporate Culture

This course explores sociological research on family dynamics, societal customs and contemporary consumerism patterns in the marketplace. Coursework covers ethnography and other social scientific methods to inspect an organization’s hierarchies, networks and cultural norms.

Managing, Organizing and Negotiating for Value

Negotiation is a central topic in this course. Relying on both theory and practical tactics, students come to understand the value of negotiation in individual, multiparty and even international scenarios.

Careers for a Doctorate of Business Administration

Your career options depend in part on which type of doctorate you pursue. DBA graduates are generally equipped for leadership and executive-level positions. For Ph.D. graduates, roles in academia are common, as are non-academic jobs that require specialized research training.

The following roles may suit candidates with a doctorate in business administration.

Management Analyst

Median Annual Salary: $95,290 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): +10% Job Description: Management analysts review organizational workflows and make recommendations to streamline business operations. These professionals advise managers by discussing business solutions that drive greater profits and various ways to cut costs.

Market Research Analyst

Median Annual Salary: $68,230 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): +13% Job Description : Market research analysts assess and review current market trends to predict the potential profits of various products. These professionals collect and analyze data, including quantitative measures of demographics and qualitative consumer feedback, via interviews and focus groups.

Median Annual Salary: $80,840 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): +8% Job Description: Professors design coursework for college and university students. They typically focus on a particular subject matter, industry or discipline, such as economics or marketing. Professors may also have industry experience outside academia that informs their teaching. Learn more with our guide on how to become a professor .

Median Annual Salary: $113,940 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): +6% Job Description: Relying on data and macro-level market trends, economists analyze issues related to supplies, goods and services. Economists specialize in quantitative analysis and may collect their own data. They can also rely on secondary data to study large-scale market patterns. Research partnerships with external organizations, government agencies and think tanks are common in this role.

Chief Executives

Median Annual Salary: $189,520 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): -8% Job Description: Executive-level positions entail developing big-picture policies that help businesses remain profitable. C-level leaders in larger organizations are often involved in strategy and goal-setting. In smaller organizations, executives may also contribute to the hiring process and day-to-day logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Business Administration (FAQs)

Is a doctor of business administration the same as a ph.d..

No. A doctor of business administration (DBA) is a degree tailored to the needs of full-time business executives. A Ph.D. program is designed for individuals seeking careers as researchers and professors in academia.

Is a DBA better than an MBA?

Not necessarily. A DBA is a top-level business degree that builds on MBA degree coursework and applied experiences in the workplace. DBA programs are usually intended to be the next step for MBA students.

Can I earn a DBA without an MBA?

Yes. Most doctorate programs require a master’s degree but not necessarily an MBA. Students with an MBA, however, are prepared for the training and expertise that comes at the doctorate level.

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Ian (he/him) is a contributing writer and a communications professional. He holds a master’s degree in sociology, and currently, he a is a doctoral candidate completing his dissertation.

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Why a Doctorate in Business Administration Is Becoming More Valuable

Sponsor content from upGrad.

At the turn of the 20th century, the world was industrializing at a rapid pace. Businesses were growing larger and more complex, with more employees working in more diversified divisions spread across more geographical boundaries.

As a result, demand grew for people who had special training in managing the general operations of a business, which led to the creation and proliferation of the Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree.

More than 100 years later, MBAs have become a commodity that no longer serve organizations’ core needs.

In today’s age of data and information, knowledge has become the most valuable resource. Companies don’t necessarily need more general managers who can assess broad patterns across multiple industries—they need people with deep expertise in specific domains who can analyze data and generate unique insights that lead to better business decisions.

That’s why Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) holders are becoming increasingly valuable in the modern workplace.

DBA is a professional degree representing the highest level of qualification in management. In contrast to an MBA, it takes students on a different path toward acquiring and using business knowledge.

For an MBA, students spend two years taking a broad range of practical courses to learn about several pillars of business—such as accounting, finance, marketing, leadership, operations, strategy, and ethics—to help them become effective leaders across many industries.

By contrast, DBAs spend up to two years studying academic literature across several domains and up to two additional years designing and executing an original research project: a dissertation focused on one domain. The primary goal of a DBA is to produce scholarly individuals who have deep expertise in a field of management.

When seeking executive-level positions, DBAs’ “Dr.” titles are likely to help them stand out from their peers. DBAs can also pursue high-level positions in areas such as consulting by becoming subject-matter experts—or maintain ties with academia as full-time or adjunct professors.

DBAs’ training gives them diverse career options. The academic literature they read gives them expertise in understanding management theories that can help them analyze real-world situations and differentiate the signal from the noise. A DBA specializing in innovation can assess whether newcomers to a market pose a credible threat as a disruptive innovation to an existing company.

Students then learn advanced scientific techniques in quantitative and/or qualitative methodologies, which trains them in analyzing data to generate valid inferences that their organizations can use for decision-making purposes. Rather than relying on gut feel and graphs, DBAs can use powerful techniques such as sampling data to reduce bias, using statistical regressions to identify the strongest factors that influence an outcome, or designing an experiment to gain 100% certainty over the causal relationship between variables.

Finally, DBAs combine their business knowledge with analytical skills to design and execute original research studies, making them the world’s leading experts in particular domains.

DBAs also stand out because they represent only 2% of all people who hold higher degrees in business. In 2021, more than 250,000 students graduated with MBAs or specialist degrees in business; only 5,000 graduated with doctorates.

While a DBA may represent an attractive option that can be highly valuable to organizations today, they are not necessarily recommended for everyone.

To help you determine whether a DBA is right for you, the most important question to ask yourself centers on whether you’re satisfied with the tools and frameworks you use to analyze data and information to make important business decisions. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering where these frameworks come from—or whether there might be a better way to make decisions—consider applying to a DBA program. These programs are designed to channel deep intellectual interests and passions toward producing business knowledge that’s both theoretically novel and practically relevant.

DBA training may help you develop deeper knowledge than an MBA program will while opening doors to more ambitious careers in industry or academia. While MBA degrees are designed to meet the needs of 20th-century businesses, DBAs can help meet the needs of organizations today—and well into the future.

Learn more about how earning a DBA can help you step up your career.

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What Are the Career Options With a PhD in Business?

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is commonly referred to as one of the leading graduate degree programs for business professionals, particularly those who want to pursue leadership opportunities within their chosen field.   

However, many passionate businesspeople find themselves wondering, "Can you get a PhD in Business?" The answer, of course, is yes: A doctorate degree in business is ideal for those looking to push the boundaries and explore in-depth business topics related to their personal career goals, along with anyone who may be interested in business ownership or senior management opportunities.  

Understanding the Value of a PhD in Business  

Compared to other graduate degree programs in business administration, the doctorate in business is a relatively new addition. According to  Coursera , Harvard University was the first university to offer a PhD in Business, with the elite Ivy League school introducing it to its offerings in the 1950s. Yet, over the course of the past several decades, the Doctor of Business Administration degree and other doctoral degrees in business have made their mark on the industry.  

At one time, the MBA degree was considered the qualifying degree for managers and senior-level executives. Recently, according to  Harvard Business Review , advances in technology as well as shifts in business demands have increased the need for highly specialized business professionals, ultimately boosting the value of a PhD in business.  

Reasons to Pursue a PhD in Business  

Pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) or another doctoral degree in business can be incredibly rewarding, and not just on a personal level. These are some of the top reasons why business professionals enroll in a doctorate business degree program:  

• It provides them with a competitive advantage in an industry infiltrated with qualified professionals.  
• It offers access to exclusive research opportunities, allowing them to better align their interests and passions with their career goals.  
• It can give them an opportunity to curve their career path toward a new goal, such as working in academia or pursuing business ownership.  

The Journey Toward a PhD in Business  

Admissions criteria for a PhD in business program vary based on the school you are considering. However, most universities that offer a doctorate in business require applicants to:  

• Have spent several years working in the business profession and gaining relevant experience.  
• Have showcased an interest in research and participated in a research-based project.  
• Have earned an MBA degree or another relevant graduate degree.  

Exploring Career Paths for PhD in Business Graduates  

Doctoral degree programs are generally associated with careers in academia. Though that is certainly an option for graduates who earn a PhD in business, there are also a variety of exciting and interesting career pathways to explore:  

A Career as a Business Consultant  

Consulting is one of the most dynamic fields within the world of business. As a business consultant, you would have the opportunity to work directly with the owners of a business or upper management to create a business plan, establish goals and create a strategy to reach those goals. According to  Glassdoor , business consulting professionals earn an average salary of about $99,000 per year.  

To become a business consultant, you need a strong foundation in the best business practices and a broad range of knowledge of numerous industries—making this a good fit for graduates with a PhD in business. According to  Indeed , common business consultant job responsibilities include:  

• Developing a marketing strategy designed to improve brand awareness among a target market segment.  
• Providing relevant information about new technology that can help streamline business operations.  
• Reviewing financial procedures to identify new opportunities for revenue growth or ways to reduce costs.  
• Creating a strategy to attract top talent and retain existing employees.  

Opportunities as a C-Suite Executive  

Earning a doctorate in business can help you reach those coveted C-suite positions. The C-suite is defined as the top tier of any organization, and the executives who work at the C-level include:  

• Chief executive officer (CEO)  
• Chief operating officer (COO)  
• Chief financial officer (CFO)  
• Chief marketing officer (CMO)  
• Chief information officer (CIO)  

Depending on the size and scope of the organization, there may be other C-level positions available.  

Rather than delegating tasks and managing the progress of individual departments, C-level executives work to make strategic decisions that will guide the organization toward long-term success. Given their roles in the top tier of the company, it's not surprising that these are some of the most lucrative positions.  ZipRecruiter  notes that top earners within the C-level executive workforce earn as much as $138,000 per year.  

The Role of an Economist  

Within a business doctoral degree program, you have the opportunity to specialize, and students who are particularly interested in economics can position themselves to take on the role of an economist after graduation.  

An economist is a professional specializing in economic research, often collecting data related to upcoming economic trends and working to forecast economic fluctuations. As experts in economic theory, economists can provide organizations with actionable insight to help guide their short-term and long-term business strategies.  

Economists play a valuable role in any business organization, regardless of its industry or sector. The primary responsibilities of an economist include:  

• Collecting economic data  
• Conducting economic forecasting  
• Assisting with budget preparation  
• Explaining economic theories in relatable and relevant ways  
• Publishing research and data-based projects to highlight economic trends  

The  Bureau of Labor Statistics  (BLS) notes that demand for economists is expected to grow by about 6 percent between 2022 and 2032, which is faster than average compared to other occupations, and the median annual salary for economists is currently almost $114,000.  

Academia: Becoming a Professor  

The world of academia is appealing to doctoral students, especially those who enjoyed their business school experience and want to be part of the movement to educate the next generation of business professionals.  

Business professors, however, are more than just teachers. At their core, these professors are researchers who specialize in a niche area of business and work to publish their findings on a regular basis. Becoming a professor is an opportunity for you, as a business professional, to focus on an aspect of business you are passionate about while simultaneously educating up-and-coming business leaders.  

According to the  BLS , the job outlook for professors is favorable. The number of available jobs is expected to increase by about 8 percent between 2022 and 2032, which is faster than average. Currently, the median annual salary for a professor is about $80,000.  

Working for Think Tanks and Research Groups  

Think tanks and research groups are specialized organizations focused primarily on conducting research that advocates or supports a specific cause. According to  ZipRecruiter , individuals who work at think tanks or research groups often collaborate in order to:  

• Provide reports and documents that support legislative efforts.  
• Partner with experts on particular issues to advocate and generate support for their cause.  
• Partner with others in the industry to help further their cause.  

Although a bachelor's degree is typically required for an entry-level position at a think tank, many of the most involved and impactful think tanks prefer candidates with a graduate-level degree. The analytical and critical thinking skills required to work at these organizations makes it an ideal fit for anyone with a PhD in business or DBA. According to  PayScale , the average annual salary for a position at a think tank is about $64,000.  

Entrepreneurship and Entrepreneur Advisor  

Entrepreneurs and entrepreneur advisors are independent, motivated business professionals who are driven by the concept of bringing a dream to life. Entrepreneurs often work to market their own products and services and strive to become their own boss. While the success of an entrepreneur largely depends on their own level of commitment and their connections in business,  Indeed  notes that an entrepreneur can earn more than $94,000 per year.  

Assisting Government Agencies  

Business experts, including graduates with a PhD in business, are well-qualified to work at a wide range of government agencies. You may be able to assist government agencies in the following types of roles:  

• Human resource specialist – Median annual salary of $64,000  
• Marketing specialist – Median annual salary of $68,000  
• Financial analyst – Median annual salary of $96,000  
• Risk management – Median annual salary of $102,000  

Employment Outlook for PhD in Business Graduates

Employment trends show that higher levels of education are required in order to gain entrance to the work force, increasing the demand for doctoral graduates in nearly every industry. According to the  BLS , employment levels in doctoral and professional occupations are expected to increase by more than 13 percent, whereas employment growth across all occupations is only expected to grow by 7 percent.  

Within the world of business, specifically, the employment outlook for DBA graduates is positive. Overall employment in business and finance is expected to increase by more than 910,000 jobs each year between 2022 and 2032. Those holding a PhD in business would have a distinctive set of advanced skills and have acquired niche business knowledge that could offer them the competitive advantage in this growing sector.  

Salary Expectations for PhD in Business Graduates

Graduates who earn a PhD in business are qualified for high-level, executive positions in business, which can increase their earning potential overtime. For example, some positions for which a graduate with a doctoral degree in business may be qualified include:  

• Chief executive – Responsible for guiding the overall direction of a company, the chief executive is often considered the top leader in the organization. This position earns an average salary of $189,000 annually.  
• Market research analyst – Specializing in advanced research techniques to uncover trends and preferences in specific markets, market research analysts are critical to the success of any organization. This position earns an average salary of $68,000 annually.  
• Business professor – Conducting research and instructing business students at the collegiate level, business professors play a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of business leaders. The median annual salary for postsecondary educators is nearly $81,000.  
• Management analyst – By monitoring and evaluating an organization's practices, a management analyst makes expert recommendations to improve efficiency and outcomes. The median annual salary for this position is about $95,000.  

How Does Geographic Location Impact Job Opportunities for PhD in Business Graduates?  

Generally speaking, your geographic location would likely have little influence over your job prospects after graduating with a PhD in business. This is especially true in the post-pandemic era, when more people have grown accustomed to remote work and geographic location does not necessarily limit a person's ability to accept a job opportunity.  

Focus on enrolling in a well-respected, high-quality doctorate program, as this would have a larger impact on your professional success than your personal geographic location.  

Are There Any Unique Job Roles for PhD in Business Graduates?  

Graduates who earn a PhD in business may have access to high-level job opportunities featuring specific requirements. Some unique job roles for which those with a DBA or PhD in business may be qualified include:  

• Consultant  
• Entrepreneur  
• Economist  
• Government agent  

For the most part, you will find that this advanced business degree provides you with the flexibility and versatility you need to personalize your career path moving forward.  

Earn Your PhD in Business at University of the Cumberlands  

At University of the Cumberlands, we offer an  online PhD in Business  that allows experienced professionals the opportunity to elevate their careers and dig deeper into their passion for best business principles. With a focus on business philosophy and evidence-based practices, this doctorate program is designed to help hone your skills, expand your knowledge and give you the ability to shift your career toward achieving your personal goals.  

Request more information  about our doctoral degree programs today.   

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PhD The Stevens Doctoral Program

Join a community of bold thinkers.

The Stevens Doctoral Program at Chicago Booth is the top destination for analytical, intellectually curious individuals who want to earn a doctorate in business from one of the best business PhD programs in the world.

As a PhD student at Chicago Booth, you will explore and cultivate your research interests from day one—wherever they lead you. In partnership with our distinguished faculty , you will develop your ability to conduct groundbreaking research. You’ll graduate with a business PhD and the tools to achieve academic and professional success.

Video Transcript

Baris Ata (00:00): When I came here, it felt like, "Now I'm in the major leagues." I realized how high the standards are.

Jane L. Risen (00:09): We're the oldest PhD program within a business school, which is pretty extraordinary to think of sort of how long ago the recognition was there that we wanted to be training not just business leaders in practice, but to be training the future leaders of academic discipline.

Ray Ball (00:26): So I arrived in 1966. Oh, it was marvelous. The place just crackled with ideas and open discussion, and I ended up throwing out all the ideas I came with.

Ann L. McGill (00:35): What I especially liked about learning things here is this is an interdisciplinary school, so you didn't have to dive in a silo. You can wrap your arms around huge areas.

Marianne Bertrand (00:46): What is special is that we are part of a business school, training PhD students across a range of disciplines, not just economics or finance, which we deploy in the Economics Department, but also students are doing psychology, operation research.

Ray Ball (00:59): At Chicago, the ideas were the authorities, not the people, and they were all up for grabs.

Amir Sufi (01:06): What we're trying to create here is people who produce knowledge, not just consume it. And that's the real challenge I think of PhD education.

Ana-Maria Tenekedjieva (01:15): I was never told at any point that, "Oh, this is not real finance. This question is too outside of the box." On the contrary, it was always, "You should do what you want to do, and we're going to think about placement once the paper is ready."

Jane L. Risen (01:32): You don't make any assumptions. You question everything.

Pradeep K. Chintagunta (01:35): It's not enough just to know what other people have done. It's also important to know what needs to be done next. To be able to do that, you need to be able to ask questions beyond the questions that have been asked in the previous literature or in the previous knowledge that's already out there.

Jeffrey R. Russell (01:53): When you're going to seminars here, or watching my colleagues talk in the hallways, you'll often see them in what look like very contentious battles. But really, they're just after, "What's the right answer?" When PhD students come here, they are able to sort of bring that into their own souls, and I think that really pushes them then to sort of be the best possible researcher that they can.

Ana-Maria Tenekedjieva (02:12): Chicago Booth is known for its quite aggressive questioning style. I think that we get a little bit of a bad rap. There is a point to the aggressive questioning, and it is to clarify the idea. In Chicago Booth the spirit is be tough on the idea, not on the person.

Amir Sufi (02:30): Throughout the world, we're appreciating more and more how influential research can be. I think our PhD students going forward will increasingly be placed in positions, both in scholarship and in government and in business, where they can have major influence.

Ray Ball (02:48): So the fact that this is the oldest doctoral program in business, that it has been going for 100 years, gives some indication of the commitment of this school to training people. We still have those same values, and so it's always going to generate people who change the world, who change the way we think. I can't tell you at this point how that will happen. That's exactly the idea. New people come in with new ideas, and they learn how to implement them in the school, and they change the way we think about the world. And that's going to keep going.

PhD in Business at a Glance

The Stevens Program is highly competitive—and highly rewarding. Approximately 20–25 new PhD students matriculate each fall from an applicant pool of more than 1,000, and our graduates are highly sought after at the world's most elite institutions of higher learning, in government, and at leading global businesses.

Our program is a full-time program that typically takes about five years to complete. PhD students can apply for one of our seven dissertation areas  or three joint PhD programs.

Explore Our Dissertation Areas and Joint PhD Programs

Our program gives you the flexibility to meet your intellectual and academic goals. We have seven doctoral dissertation areas, as well as three joint PhD programs.

Join Our Research Community

In collaboration with faculty and fellow students, you’ll conduct innovative research and prepare for a successful career.

How to Apply for and Fund Your PhD in Business

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Earn your PhD in one of the best business PhD programs in the world. Here’s how to join our community of bold thinkers.

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Join us at an information session or recruiting forum to learn more about the Stevens Doctoral Program at Chicago Booth.

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At Chicago Booth, PhD students receive a tuition grant, a stipend, student health insurance, a computer or computer subsidy, and access to research and travel funding.

Meet Our Alumni and Job Market Candidates

Discover our alumni success.

For 100 years, Chicago Booth has been a proven training ground for the next generation of leading professionals in academia, government, and industry.

See Our PhD Job Market Candidates

See the Stevens Doctoral Program's current job market candidates—the next generation of researchers who will shape theory and practice in business and beyond.

Discover UChicago

Discover UChicago is a two-day program that introduces third-year undergraduates to the prospect of pursuing a graduate degree at UChicago and other institutions alike. At the event, Stevens Doctoral Program representatives will shed light on the program and application process, as well as navigating academic life at Chicago Booth.

Celebrating 100 Years of Pioneering Research

Since 1920, our faculty, alumni, and students have been driving the evolution of modern research in a wide range of disciplines.

On April 11, 2024, scholars in financial economics gathered to share ongoing research in a series of alumni and student presentations as part of a commemorative event dedicated to our late colleague, Yiran Fan.

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Measuring preferences for privacy.

Current PhD student Tesary Lin’s passion for economics and behavioral science has led her to develop a new incentive framework for businesses that want to use consumer data to inform managerial decisions, while respecting consumers’ privacy preferences.

A PhD for Social Impact

A passion for travel, social impact, and wanting to "dig deeper" inspired current student Gülin Tuzcuoğlu to pursue a PhD in operations research.

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12 Career Paths You Can Pursue With a Doctorate in Business Administration

If you are considering earning your DBA online to increase your career possibilities and salary potential, a good starting point is to do a deep dive into the jobs you can get with an advanced business administration degree. 

Online DBA degree programs can enhance the careers of many professionals by equipping them with marketable, high-level skills like data-driven decision making, business intelligence, and ethical leadership. 85% of surveyed professional doctorate graduates say that their degree facilitated a promotion or career change. Additionally, 97% of DBA graduates report receiving a full-time job offer within six months of graduation.

Post-graduate education in business administration can equip you for greater success in your field. Consider 12 of the jobs that a business administration program can prepare graduates to fill. 

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Business Consultant

Business consultants — also called management consultants or management analysts — work with corporations and organizations to achieve their specific goals. A consultant may be retained in order to work on a specific company project, such as a reorganization or expansion. Consultants will request and review data and information about the organization then make recommendations for best practices based on what they observe. 

The consultant’s job is often split into two parts that work together: reviewing past information and presenting future plans. Therefore, consultants need to be skilled both in data analysis and in effective communication, so that they can empower their clients to make informed, clear decisions. Graduates of doctorate in business administration degree programs will especially excel at these dual responsibilities.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that management analyst roles will grow by 14% between 2020–2030 , which is faster than the average rate for all occupations. They list a median annual salary of $87,660, however, that is based on bachelor and master’s level management analyst roles as well. The highest 10% of earners in these roles earned over $156,840 per year. 

C-Suite Executive

Professionals who hold a doctorate-level degree in business administration and have many years of relevant experience in their field are equipped to enter c-level roles such as chief executive officer, chief administrative officer, or chief operations officer. These professionals are typically responsible for oversight of many major aspects of a company, including employee teams, budgeting, and projects. 

Executive leadership roles such as c-suite positions are increasingly technical as the marketplace shifts toward higher prioritization of data and metrics. In fact, artificial intelligence, data science, and machine learning technologies are the top three technical skills that are in-demand for C-suite executives. Business administration degrees that emphasize business intelligence are a perfect fit.

The BLS projects 8% growth rate in top executive roles between 2020 and 2030. They list a median annual wage for chief executives of $185,950. 

Economists study data, trends, and economic issues in order to understand various aspects of resource production and distribution. They may conduct surveys, perform statistical analysis, and use various technological tools and software programs to evaluate economic trends. 

Professionals in the economics field will find that a doctorate of business administration enhances their capacity to make interpretations and forecast trends in the marketplace. Their degree program will also strengthen their leadership skills, further empowering them to share their forecasts and predictions with key stakeholders of businesses, organizations, government agencies, or even individuals in order to assist them in making economic decisions.

The BLS lists a median annual wage of $108,350 for economists . However, this estimate includes economists with master’s degrees. Economists with doctoral degrees may have a higher earning potential that is closer to the top 10% of economist’s salaries listed by the BLS, which is higher than $198,230.

Professors who hold a doctorate of business administration are likely to teach classes in a college or university’s business school, and to cover topics like business practices, management skills, or ethical leadership. The day-to-day work of a professor may include meeting with a student to discuss a paper or exam grade, making lesson plans, and conducting a survey that will inform an upcoming scholarly article. 

The BLS projects a 12% growth rate for postsecondary teachers between 2020 and 2030. The median annual wage for these professionals was $80,560 in May 2020. The top 10% earned more than $179,540.

Organizational Development Manager

Organizational development managers determine what types of training and development could help the organization and its employees reach their goals. An organizational development manager may work with both teams and individuals in order to make development plans. Professionals with experience as human resources generalists or training managers who graduate from a doctorate of business administration degree program will find themselves well-suited for roles in organizational development management.

Organizational development managers are responsible for selecting training opportunities that align with the company’s objectives, creating and managing staff development budgets, and evaluating training programs and those who lead them. 

The BLS projects that roles for training and development managers will grow 11% between 2020–2030 , which is faster than the average for all occupations. These professionals earned a median salary of $115,460 in May 2020, with the top 10% of earners receiving over $200,210.

Director of Human Resources

A director of human resources (HR director) may work in any number of business fields. The HR director develops and implements policies, plans and coordinates activities, and oversees various components of organizational staffing. This professional will be responsible for recruitment, hiring, and training of staff members, delivery of performance evaluations, and, when necessary, disciplinary issues including termination. 

HR directors, who typically have years of experience in human resources or a requisite role, often work closely with senior leaders to ensure that the company culture is aligned with the organization’s goals and objectives. They are also involved in various dynamics of company procedures such as compensation, benefits, leave, and occupational health and safety. 

The BLS does not project a growth rate or list an average salary for Directors of Human Resources. However, they project a growth rate of 9% between 2020–2030 for human resources managers, which may shed some light on the subject. According to Built In , the average base salary for an HR director is $140,493 with an average of 432,770 in additional cash compensation, totaling $173,713.

Government Program Manager

Across all branches of the military and dozens of government agencies, skilled leaders with experience and education in workforce planning and leadership are needed to manage people and programs. A program manager in the federal government, for example, may work for the Environmental Protection Agency to develop training programs and conduct strategic planning. A program manager who works for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission may advise commission leaders, oversee nation-wide programs, and direct policy development.

At the local level, program managers may work for a city or state. They might, for example, be responsible for designing and implementing programs that lead a city’s decarbonization efforts. A program manager in such a position may collaborate with other leaders to create a plan for increasing their area’s use of green energy.

At the federal level, many program manager jobs are ranked as GS-15 according to the General Schedule Pay Scale. That means a salary range of $110,460 - $143,598 per year. As far as the state and local level, Payscale lists the average government program manager salary as $91,657 .

Nonprofit Executive Director

Nonprofit executive directors are the primary leaders of charitable organizations. They are responsible for overseeing programs that align with the organization’s mission and industry best practices. Oftentimes, their roles entail fundraising, strategic planning, and advising the board of directors. Nonprofit directors may have worked in the field for decades, or they may be transitioning from a public or private role into the philanthropic sector. Skills like leadership, strategic planning, and financial management may transition well to a nonprofit executive director role when combined with a doctorate of business administration degree.

The ability to understand the needs of the population the organization serves both through data and relationships are invaluable for such a leader — and makes a doctorate in business administration a great asset. These leaders need to be able to put together and activate staff teams who can accomplish great things with limited resources.

Salaries for nonprofit executive directors tend to vary based on the size of the organization and its budgets. The BLS does not track nonprofit executive director salaries or job projections specifically, but they do state that the average mean salary for top executives in social advocacy organizations was $164,010 as of May 2020 .

Strategic Planner

Strategic planners work to innovate and implement projects, systems, and strategies that improve a company or organizations. They may create and present various plans, or stages of plans, that project years into the company’s future — and outline the steps to take along the way. Graduates of doctorate of business administration degree programs who also have experience in management and analysis are strong candidates for strategic planner roles.

Strategic planners need to have a varied skill set that includes the ability to analyze data, design plans and strategies that address weaknesses, and communicate concepts with key stakeholders.

While it is not an exact match, the management analyst projections and salary listed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics are useful for understanding the possible range for strategic planners. The BLS lists an average median salary of $87,660 for management analysts in May 2020 and a projected job growth rate of 14% from 2020–2030.

Market Research Analyst

Market research analysts monitor and forecast marketplace trends. They work in most fields of industry studying and projecting sales and marketing trends so that the companies they work for can make strategic, data-driven decisions about the products and services they offer. Marketing assistants and account representatives will be strong candidates for a market research analyst career path when they combine their professional experience with a doctorate of business administration degree.

These professionals explore everything from consumer demographics to product demand in order to provide research-based recommendations for marketing, advertising, and sales efforts. They employ statistics, visualizations like charts and graphs, and research methods such as polls, surveys, and focus groups to inform their recommendations. 

The BLS lists an average median salary of $65,810 for market research analysts with 10% of senior market research analyst professionals earning over $127,410. Market research analyst job positions are projected to grow by 22% from 2020–2030.

Project Manager

For graduates of a business administration degree program who enjoy empowering others to learn, grow, and work together effectively, the role of project manager is a great profession to consider. 

A project manager may work as a consultant or work at a company full time to oversee various company projects. Professionals in these positions are often responsible for setting project goals and milestones, collaborating with teams to ensure progress, and assessing projects at various stages. They oversee the timeline and budget, allocate resources, and update key stakeholders.

The BLS lists an annual median salary of $77,420 for project management specialists and business operations specialists, with the top 10% earning $135,220 or more. The BLS expects 9% job growth for management occupations between 2020–2030. 

Logistician

Logisticians analyze data, current events, and company performance to coordinate their company’s supply chain . They typically manage the full life cycle of a product, allocate needed materials, and work with suppliers and customers to create positive outcomes for all involved. The skills developed in a doctorate of business administration degree program can enhance and build upon the abilities of logisticians.

Logisticians may design strategies to improve efficiencies, perform troubleshooting tasks, and work to reduce costs for their company. While most logisticians work in manufacturing, they also find employment in the government, professional services, private corporations, and more. 

The BLS projects a 30% growth rate between 2020–2030 for logisticians , which is much faster than the rate for all occupations. They list a median annual wage of $76,270 for this position, with the highest percent earning more than $122,580. 

Accelerate Your Career with an online Doctorate of Business Administration from Marymount University 

The marketplace needs data-savvy leaders. Through the online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Business Intelligence program at Marymount University Online you can prepare for high-level business management.

Our 100% online DBA program takes less than three years and focuses on applied research that directly correlates to the real-world. Prepare to lead with a DBA in Business Intelligence .

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PhD in Management Program

A phd in management: where business research and education intersect.

Become an industry thought leader while preparing tomorrow’s business leaders.

Our fully funded PhD in Management is designed for ambitious students and professionals interested in a career in university teaching and research.

This residential program, based at the Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management in Ithaca, NY, combines Ivy League rigor and real-world relevance to prepare you for successful careers in academia.

Why Get a PhD in Management?

With a strong focus on management science and applied research, this doctoral degree is ideal for someone looking to teach at the university level and contribute to the greater body of industry knowledge. Pursuing a PhD in Management is also an ideal next step for executives and senior managers who want to make a transition to academia or enhance their research skills for a successful consulting career.

Fully Funded, Highly Flexible: What Makes Cornell’s Management PhD Different?

As you explore PhD programs’ degree requirements, faculty engagement, and campus experience, Cornell stands alone.

In Cornell’s highly flexible program, you’ll choose a specific area of study and build your own dissertation committee. Our program faculty are genuinely interested and invested in your intellectual development. In this small and highly selective program, you will get to know the faculty and your peers well. 

The SC Johnson Graduate School of Management is home to leading research centers and a high-impact academic journal; these open you up to unique learning and mentorship opportunities.

Business Simulation Lab

The Debra Paget and Jeffrey Berg Business Simulation Lab facilitates in-person and online behavioral research related to decision-making and problem-solving.

Discover More About BSL

Our Three-Pronged Approach to a PhD in Management

The Johnson School’s doctoral degree in management combines the best of theory and practice, building on a three-pronged foundation:

Hands-on Experience

Develop your research and analytical skills. You’ll work with classmates to examine existing literature and theories for class deliverables, which will often include your own original research.

Customizable Curriculum

Design your own academic pathway. You’ll choose one of six primary areas of study and create your own dissertation committee.

University-Wide Coursework

Draw on the expertise from across Cornell. You’ll get to select graduate-level courses from schools and colleges devoted to law , hospitality , engineering , labor relations , and other fields.

At a Glance: Cornell’s Fully Funded PhD in Management

The fully residential, fully funded PhD in Management program includes a tuition waiver and a stipend for living expenses. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

Degree Awarded

PhD in Management

Program Location

Ithaca, NY, with options in New York City

Program Format

Foundational coursework, original research, and six potential areas of study

Hear from Our Community

“PhD is a marathon, not a sprint, and collaborating with great people is paramount. At Cornell, I’ve found a place where amazing people come together, supporting my research and personal growth. Choosing Cornell means joining a community that knows how important it is to work with exceptional people to excel in the program.” – Elina Hur PhD ’23

Customize Your Path: Our Areas of Study

When you apply to the Johnson School’s PhD in Management, you will select a primary area of study. Choosing a concentration allows you to gain specialized skills and knowledge while growing a portfolio of original research.

Examine the role of accounting information in firms and financial markets. PhD-level research at Cornell explores topics such as how firms report information to investors, how accounting information is used to manage firms, and the nature of auditing.

Strategy & Business Economics

Use modern tools and methodologies to gain a better understanding of the world. PhD students in this area explore many aspects of economics including industrial, behavioral, labor, and organizational.

Dive deep into the financial structure and issues of organizations. Your research might look at how conflicts of interest affect corporate policy, how investor psychology affects asset pricing, or how to detect price bubbles.

Learn how theories from operations research, economics, psychology, and sociology intersect to inform corporate and consumer decisions. Your PhD studies will explore both quantitative and behavioral perspectives of marketing.

Management & Organizations

Prepare for a research-focused career in academia or industry. This versatile concentration develops skilled, innovative, analytical researchers through a broad curriculum and close faculty collaboration.

Operations, Technology, & Information Management

Develop the technical skills and behavioral analysis knowledge you need to address high-impact managerial decisions. This focus area also offers an option to complete coursework at Cornell Tech in New York City.

Idea Generation to Publication: A Career in Teaching and Research

The majority of our PhD in Management students pursue careers in academia. After graduation, many land tenure-track teaching positions at top-tier business schools and continue to advance knowledge through original research. Johnson School PhD students often field multiple offers and see starting salaries range from $150,000 to $250,000.

Finding Your Place at Cornell: Meet Our Current PhDs

Students from around the United States and across the globe arrive at the Johnson School to earn their PhD in Management —and their diverse research interests, educational backgrounds, and professional experiences make for a vibrant, enriching learning environment. MEET CURRENT PHD STUDENTS

Research and Placements: Making an Impact in the Management Field

After earning the PhD in Management, our alumni go on to teach and inspire future leaders at top-tier institutions. Not only do they teach and conduct research alongside some of the most brilliant minds in business, but they also advance the field through publishing in leading journals and presenting their work at industry conferences.

Recent PhD in Management Placements

• Piyush Anand, PhD ’21, assistant professor of marketing, Jones Graduate School of Business, Rice University
• Guarav Kankanhalli, PhD ’20, assistant professor, Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business, University of Pittsburgh
• Eunjee Kim, PhD ’21, assistant professor, Mays Business School, Texas A&M University
• Sarah Lim, PhD ’21, assistant professor, Gies College of Business, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• Xuege Lu, PhD ’22, assistant professor, Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota
• Subrina Shen, PhD ’21, assistant professor, McCombs School of Business, University of Texas at Austin

Recent Research Publications

• “ Do Real Estate Values Boost Corporate Borrowing? Evidence from Contract-Level Data ” in the Journal of Financial Economics (2022) — Gaurav Kankanhalli, PhD ’20, with Murillo Campello, Robert A. Connolly, and Eva Steiner
• “ Converging Tides Lift All Boats: Consensus in Evaluation Criteria Boosts Investments in Firms in Nascent Technology Sectors ” in Organization Science (2021) — Xirong (Subrina) Shen, PhD ’21, with Huisi (Jessica) Li, PhD ’20, and Pamela S. Tolbert 
• “ Initial and Longer-Term Change in Unit-Level Turnover Following Leader Succession: Contingent Effects of Outgoing and Incoming Leader Characteristics ” in Organization Science (2020)— Huisi (Jessica) Li, PhD ’20, with John Hausknecht and Lisa Dragoni

“ Does Regulatory Jurisdiction Affect the Quality of Investment-Adviser Regulation? ” in American Economic Review (2019) — Alan Kwan, PhD ’17, with Ben Charoenwong and Tarik Umar

Our Faculty: Accomplished Researchers, Dedicated Teachers

When you join the PhD in Management program at the Johnson School, you’ll be part of a learning community comprising more than 100 accomplished academics and thought leaders. 

Not only will you take courses with renowned professors from across the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business, but you also will have the opportunity to build your own faculty committee—a group that will become instrumental as you select your dissertation topic and embark on your original research.

Faculty Spotlight: Learn from Leading Thought Leaders

Throughout the PhD program—from foundational coursework to your dissertation—you’ll work closely with dedicated teacher-scholars like these:

Kristina Rennekamp

Dr. Rennekamp’s research focuses on financial accounting from a behavioral perspective. She’s widely published, with work appearing in leading academic journals such as The Accounting Review , Contemporary Accounting Research , and The Journal of Financial Reporting .

Karan Girotra

Dr. Girotra studies the digital transformation of companies, whether it’s looking at emerging tools and practices or exploring new business models. He’s frequently interviewed in an array of mainstream business media outlets, including Bloomberg BusinessWeek , Fortune , and Forbes .

Kaitlin Woolley

Dr. Woolley studies the psychological processes behind consumer motivation. She’s an award-winning educator and researcher with work published in academic journals and national media outlets including the Journal of Consumer Research , Journal of Marketing Research , and The Wall Street Journal .

EXPLORE JOHNSON SCHOOL FACULTY

What You’ll Learn: Curriculum Overview

As you pursue your PhD in business management , you’ll begin with a set of foundation courses and progress into advanced coursework in your area of interest. Through it all, your faculty committee will help make sure you’re on the right track.

Foundational Management Coursework

Early in your doctoral program, you will complete foundational coursework in management and other fields. Many of these will focus on the research process and prepare you for your dissertation.

Advanced Coursework in Your Concentration Area

As you progress in the PhD in Management program, you’ll take electives and advanced courses that align with your research area of interest; these classes can be in the Johnson School and across Cornell.

Your Dissertation: Creating Original Research

During the final part of the program, you begin work on your dissertation—the culmination of your original research. You choose the topic of research in conjunction with your committee.

VIEW PROGRAM SPECIFICS

Beyond Business: Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration and Dialogue

Tap into the experience and expertise of faculty members from across Cornell University.  

Management is a broad science. Business leaders serve in a variety of roles in industries of all kinds: healthcare, consumer goods, agriculture, biotechnology, media, and consulting to name just a few. At Cornell, you can enrich your education and expand your research opportunities by taking courses and finding mentors beyond the college of business.

Explore fields like computer science, psychology, sociology, communication, engineering, and data science—and then connect the dots back to your management research.

Interact with peers and professors from other disciplines by participating in student organizations and special interest groups or by attending public lectures, workshops, and networking events.

Admissions Overview: How to Apply to the Management PhD Program

The ideal candidate for the Johnson School’s doctorate degree in management will have a strong record of academic excellence, a solid understanding of the research process, and an entrepreneurial approach to problem-solving. An MBA or master’s degree is not a requirement for admission. 

Our admissions page offers more details about program prerequisites, selection criteria, requirements, deadline information, and a checklist of materials you need to submit with your application.

Connect With Cornell Admissions

The Johnson School admissions team is available to answer your questions about the program and the application process. Stop in or reach out by phone or email today.

253-D Sage Hall Johnson Graduate School of Management Cornell University Ithaca, NY 14853-6201

Phone: 607-255-5340 Email: Graduate Research Programs Office

The Cornell Campus: Where You Will Learn, Grow, and Thrive

Learn, grow, and thrive on one of the most beautiful college campuses in the United States. As a PhD student, you’ll spend a lot of time in Sage Hall, a Gothic-style building dating back to 1875. You’ll find more high-tech learning spaces just off campus at the Breazzano Family Center for Business Education. You’ll also have access to the innovative campus of Cornell Tech in New York City—particularly relevant to students focused on technology and information management. 

Attending Cornell also means you’ll call Ithaca, NY, home for about five years. Our eclectic downtown is full of eateries, shops, activities, and all of the amenities you’d need for everyday life. When you’re not in class or studying, you can explore all that the Finger Lakes region has to offer.

PhD in Management FAQ: What You Need to Know

Before you apply to a research-focused graduate program, you’re likely to want to do some deep research of your own. For instance, how does a fully funded PhD in Management work? What’s the typical completion time?

We have a robust Frequently Asked Questions section to help you learn more about our program, the admissions process, and dissertation requirements. For our international applicants, you’ll also find specific details about earning your PhD in Management.

May I speak to someone about my interest in the program and visit?

You are welcome to reach out to any professor with whom you see a good research fit. Our website also has a wealth of information about the program.

Is an interview part of the process?

We offer interviews only to a few applicants after their first screening.

May I talk to a professor or advisor?

You are welcome to contact any professor with whom you see a research match. Faculty are more likely to respond to specific research queries.

I have questions; may I write to this program email address?

Yes. Our response time will vary. We are not able to answer detailed questions that are better assessed by faculty during the application process.

May I schedule a campus tour?

Admissions does not offer campus tours for PhD program applicants. However, you may arrange an appointment with a faculty member.

Fraud alert – beware of third-party post-doc scams.

Cornell University recently has been made aware of fraudulent activity targeting overseas students and researchers, including at least one third party website falsely stating that it is offering a postdoctoral or visiting scholar program in association with Cornell. These scams, which may seek to obtain money and/or personal details from interested applicants, are fraudulent. 

Cornell wishes to warn the public about these fraudulent activities being perpetrated purportedly in the name of Cornell, and/or its officials. Please be advised that: 

• Cornell does not, nor has it, worked in collaboration with third-party companies or organizations to offer postdoctoral or research certificate programs.
• Third parties do not collect tuition or fees on behalf of Cornell.
• Cornell does not work with or endorse such organizations including, but not limited to, Shanghai Lufei Education Technology Co., Ltd. (Chinese name: 上海璐斐教育科技有限公司) and Shenzhen Guoyan Era Education Technology Co., Ltd. (Chinese name: 深圳市国研时代教育科技有限公司).

Cornell’s postdoctoral positions are listed on the Academic Career Opportunities website and postdoctoral fellowship programs are available for viewing. If you suspect a third party of falsely advertising a Cornell program, please notify [email protected]. Victims of such scams may also report them to their local law enforcement authorities for appropriate action.

Start the Application Process Today

Ready to apply to our highly selective, fully funded PhD in Management? We look forward to learning more about you and your research goals. Start the application process today at the Cornell Graduate Admissions website. [You’ll first need to register for an account or log in to an existing one.]

Should I Earn a PhD in Business Administration?

PhD in Business Administration Overview

• Choosing A Business School
• Business Degree Options
• Business School Admissions
• MBA Programs & Rankings
• Business Careers and Internships
• Student Resources
• Homework Help
• Private School
• College Admissions
• College Life
• Graduate School
• Distance Learning

A Ph.D. in Business Administration is the highest academic degree that can be earned in the business administration field within the U.S. and several other countries. Ph.D. stands for Doctor of Philosophy. Students who enroll in a Ph.D. in Business Administration program participate in and conduct field research throughout the program. Completion of the program results in a degree. 

Where to Earn a Ph.D. in Business Administration

There are many different business schools that award PhDs in Business Administration. Most programs are campus-based, but there are also a number of schools that provide online programs. Most online programs do not require students to ever set foot on campus. 

How Does a Ph.D. in Business Administration Program Work?

The average program requires four to six years of work but may require less or more depending on the program. Students typically work with the faculty to determine a specific program of study based on current interests and future career goals. After completing coursework and/or independent study , students usually take an exam. This often occurs sometime between the second and fourth year of study. When the exam is complete, students typically begin work on a dissertation that they will present prior to graduation.

Choosing a Ph.D. Program

Choosing the right Ph.D. in Business Administration program can be difficult. However, it is important for students to choose a program that fits their needs, study schedule, and career goals. The first thing every student should explore is accreditation . If a program is not accredited, it is not worth pursuing. Other important considerations include program location, concentration options, faculty reputation, and program reputation. Students should also consider cost and the availability of financial aid packages. Earning an advanced degree isn't cheap--and a Ph.D. in Business Administration is no exception.

What Can I Do With a Ph.D. in Business Administration?

The type of job you can get after graduating with a Ph.D. in Business Administration is often dependent on your program concentration. Many business schools allow Ph.D. students to concentrate on one specific area of business administration, such as accounting, finance, marketing, operations management , or strategic management. Popular career options include teaching or consulting. A Ph.D. in Business Administration program provides ideal preparation for business majors who want to go on to become business school professors or teachers in the business administration field. Grads are also prepared to take on consulting positions with corporations, non-profits, and government agencies.

Learn More About Ph.D. Programs

• Visit this site to learn more about  earning a Ph.D.  in Business Administration online.
• Visit the U.S. Department of Education Accreditation Database to find an accredited Ph.D. in Business Administration program.
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Is it Possible to Get My PhD After My MBA?

In academia, numerous accomplishments can be achieved. You can earn a dual degree and have expertise in multiple fields, or further your career potential by going back to school . But what about progressing from an MBA to a PhD? 

In regards to higher education, many consider earning a PhD, or doctorate degree, the pinnacle of success. Usually, due to passion for a particular industry or subject, a PhD candidate will spend years of rigorous research to unpack its intricacies and become a leading expert in the field.  At the end of their studies, they are able to finally see their work come to fruition when they receive their doctorate and join alongside other scholars. However, is it typical for an MBA graduate to move onto pursuing their PhD? And is there a specific purpose? Are there different types of PhD programs? What is the difference between a PhD and DBA?

To answer the budding question: yes, you can pursue your PhD after earning your MBA, and choosing to earn a doctorate is entirely up to you and your aspirations. To help you better understand if getting a PhD is the right choice, we look at the path an MBA graduate can take to earn their PhD, one of the higher purposes of a doctorate, and the different types of academic programs. 

What is a PhD, and What is it Used For? 

By definition, a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy in a particular discipline, which is why it's also referred to as a doctorate. This focus is typically for individuals highly passionate about a specific subject matter, driven by the pursuit to understand it better through rigorous research. A majority of students seeking their PhD are eager researchers, although there are always exceptions, and each carries out years of highly intensive research to conclude their original thesis and earn their doctorate. 

In terms of translating your education into a career, a doctorate can be used in a plethora of fields, especially if one’s thesis is around a wider subject matter and can be a discipline applied to various industries (take organizational development, for example). For those who are passionate about a career in research, a doctoral degree is a perfect fit. Possibly the most popular field for those with a doctorate is a fruitful career in academia, teaching their subject matter to others interested in the same area. Many graduates become faculty members at business schools upon completing their PhD and provide their expertise to their students. Regardless of which industry you choose, you can be assured that a PhD will provide you with numerous opportunities. 

How Long Does it Take to Progress from an MBA to PhD?

The timeframe for earning your PhD can vary depending on program and location. Many countries have varying timelines of how long the completion of a doctoral program will take. In the United States, the average is around 4-5 years of completion after receiving your Master of Business Administration. 

Do You Need an MBA to Get a PhD?

To be accepted into a doctoral program, you must have a master’s degree. It does not have to be a Master of Business Administration, but it does need to be a master’s of some form. Depending on your area of specialization, it could be advantageous to earn your MBA in pursuit of a PhD if you are planning to embark on a career in business upon completion of your doctorate. Additionally, one important aspect to consider is the program itself. It is important to look into a program’s requirements before applying to meet the eligibility criteria. 

The Difference Between a DBA and a PhD 

For those specifically interested in a career in business, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a highly beneficial doctoral program. A DBA focuses on a broader spectrum of business disciplines, dedicating research toward multiple corporate facets, and practical implementation. On the contrary, a PhD narrows into a specific area of discipline and research, emphasizing theory, and it’s potential implications. While both are heavily centered around research and implementation, a DBA sets business executives and leaders on a path to discover new possibilities for their organizations and businesses. In a way, it allows established business professionals to “trailblaze” the way for new and innovative ideas that can disrupt the market and set a precedent for the future of business.

Get Your MBA or DBA at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School

At Pepperdine Graziadio, we proudly offer degrees to accommodate business professionals at any stage of their lives and careers. Our full and part-time MBA programs are designed to prepare candidates for a successful career in values-based business leadership. All of our MBA programs offer a personalized learning approach executed by our world-class faculty. Each program is characterized by its top-ranked business curriculum that can be coupled with an academic concentration. 

Our Executive Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program has been carefully designed for the tenured business leader looking to drive groundbreaking innovations. This rigorous program allows candidates to gain in-depth knowledge and finetune their expertise through applied research. Also, executives enjoy learning alongside changemakers in various industries and participating in exclusive opportunities available only to DBA candidates.

Learn more about which programs fit your career aspirations and academic interests.

Learn more about how to achieve your career goals with a degree from Pepperdine Graziadio Business School.

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Know the Career Opportunities with a Doctorate in Business Administration

Blog Summary

DBA degree emphasizes the development of research skills and prepares you for leadership C-suite roles. A full-time Doctorate in Business Administration program takes four years and part-time takes more than four years. The online DBA program facilitates you to work and study simultaneously with flexible schedules. Job roles after DBA include management analyst, C-level executive, market research analyst, professor and economist. TSL-UCN’s online DBA program provides a rich exposure to tools and research skills needed for strategic planning and decision-making; it empowers you to conceive research-based solutions for complexities and challenges in the business process.

Why Get a Doctorate in Business Administration?

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You have a master’s degree, maybe you’ve had it for a while, or it’s all a new sensation doesn’t matter, because you have it. I’m certain you’ve been wondering about getting yourself a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA); otherwise, you wouldn’t be here. Like getting a PhD in other categories, a Doctorate in Business Administration is the highest education you can achieve in business administration. In this article, you can know complete details of Doctorate in Business Administration and its importance.

DBA degree emphasizes the development of research skills preparing you for management and leadership roles such as a chief financial officer or chief operating officer. Because of the emphasis on research skills, this degree gives you an advantage for jobs in academic institutions such as lecturer, professor, or dean. This boosts the functionality of your master’s degree, allowing you the freedom to switch positions into something more practical as you lead teams, companies, and organizations through challenges and changes.

A DBA program consists of 60 credits that take full-time students about three to four years to graduate from the program. Part-time students take four or more years, though some institutions have been known to limit how long one can take to study the coursework. There are some institutions that allow students to take an accelerated approach, which overloads the student’s workload. However, this approach is frowned upon as it usually puts stress on the students causing high failure rates. If approved, this is usually undertaken with supervision from a lecturer to provide balance for the student.

Considering everything that’s happened in the world the last couple of months, not a lot of buildings are open thankfully online programs are available. Let’s take a look at online programs that are of high reputation. Earning your online Doctorate in Business Administration degree means you don’t have to change your environment or pay unnecessary bills, and so, your focus needs only be centered on becoming a DBA. Studying Online means you don’t have to leave your current job to pursue your dream upgrade in life. Taking an online DBA degree means you can take the class from colleges or universities in other nations.

Becoming a DBA comes with an array of options that you can utilize to enhance your livelihood. Distance learning DBA programs have so many ways to help aspiring executives stand out from the rest of the pack. As a working professional, you can attest to the number of people around you who all have a master’s degree. Becoming a DBA makes you stand out among your peers as it exposes you to new ideas around management and leadership.

When you become a DBA, it also opens up doors for you to teach business courses. However, online DBA programs may vary. They are all created with the view of building excellent decision-makers. This degree signifies you’ve had several years of education in decision-making, which is necessary to build the confidence to take up roles such as:

• Management Analyst

A Doctorate in Business Administration graduate can take up a role as a management analyst or management consultant. The role of this designation is to guide organization managers on how to revamp the bottom line by reducing costs, thereby generating increased revenue.

According to PayScale, the average annual salary of a management consultant in South Africa is  R422,740 and in Nigeria  ₦2,300,145.

• C-Level Executive

Chief-level executives are the highest designations in any corporate organization. Getting placed in such a position needs better educational qualifications and broad experience, as these C-level executives will be the decision-makers of the organization.

According to PayScale, the average annual salary of a chief executive officer in South Africa is R1,379,920 and in Nigeria ₦12,000,000.

• Market Research Analyst

In a company, a market research analyst’s role would be crucial as the success of the organization solely depends on their market research on products or services in their respective target market.

According to PayScale, the average annual salary of a market research analyst in South Africa is R235,832 and in Nigeria ₦1,120,000.

In general, academicians are ones who prefer to take up a doctorate in business administration degree, as the qualification will enable them to take up the postsecondary teaching profession.

According to Indeed.com, the average annual salary for a professor in South Africa is  R1,002,214, and in Nigeria, it ranges between ₦4,580,349–₦6,020,163 as per Nigerian Finder’s report.

The role of an economist is to conduct extensive research, track economic trends, analyze collected data and forecast upcoming economic trends.

According to PayScale, the average annual salary for an economist in South Africa is R305,194 and in Nigeria ₦7,861,081.

The above job list is just an example. The opportunity for Doctorate in Business Administration graduates is wide, and they can explore better jobs in the business sector and educational institutions.

Best Business School to Pursue an Online DBA Program

In an academic partnership with the University of Central Nicaragua (UCN), Taksha Smartlabz (TSL) offers an online DBA program that provides a rich education for senior leadership roles with tools and research skills needed to plan strategically and make decisions. The program empowers you to design research-based solutions for challenges businesses face ensuring you emerge as a thought leader and change agent.

DBA degree requirements are a master’s degree plus a minimum of three years of managerial experience, and you must qualify in the interview. The course duration with TSL-UCN is three years, much shorter than other institutions.

There was a time when simply having a master’s degree put you ahead of your peers and gave you an advantage in the employment circles. That time is long gone as more and more organizations are finding it more beneficial to have someone with a DBA degree. DBA prepares you for the role of leadership in most organizations that require executives. To move up in the world, one simply has to study DBA. TSL-UCN makes it easier and more efficient to research and complete the program and enhance the options available to upgrade your life as you see fit.

Register for Doctor in Business Administration Course and learn the theory of business and applying it to solve real world business problems.

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Is a Ph.D. in Business Worth It?

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A super common question… Is obtaining a Ph.D. in Business worth the time, effort, and money? In this article, we dive into all of the aspects of taking your business education a giant step further.

More college graduates are deciding to pursue a degree in the master’s, professional, or doctorate level of studies in their fields of discipline. Since 2000, the number of adults aged 25 and higher whose highest educational attainment was a master’s degree has doubled to 21 million. The number of doctoral degree holders has also grown to 4.5 million.

Given the rising development, it provides you with an assurance that completing a Ph.D. in Business is a worthy investment, especially in a competitive job market.

For many students, the decision to pursue a Ph.D. in Business studies is a tough one to make. Many aren’t sure if getting a Ph.D. in Business is even worth it. On the one hand, you are a passionate learner of the subject, and you want to deepen your knowledge as an independent researcher.

On the other hand, some factors can’t be ignored, such as completion time, low compensation, or even mundane career prospects.

In this article, we highlight all the essential information you will need to decide if getting a Ph.D. in Business is worth all the time and effort.

Also, see FAST, ACCREDITED Online Schools for Ph.D. DEGREES

Rising Number of Doctorate Degree Holders

Prospective students pursuing a Ph.D. program in a business-related field are generally highly determined to become an expert in their chosen specialization.

The doctorate program in Business offers you a clear and well-funded pathway to pose a question, perform research, discover something new, and publish your work with your name.

As a result, it proves that you have sufficient understanding and contribution to the subject. It is also a common way to get prepared for an academic career – either teaching at an advanced educational level or as a full-time researcher.

Workforce for Universities

Prospective Ph.D. in Business students are often involved in attending, grading, and teaching to the undergraduate student community at a lesser cost compared to an entry-level full-time professor.

As such, colleges and universities actively encourage a large Ph.D. population, advocate their research works, and earn more grants for the educational system while reducing the need to hire full-time teaching positions.

With the undergraduate student population bringing in immense tuition annually, having low-cost disposable teaching support develops an excellent ROI (Return on Investment) for institutions of higher learning.

Increasing Trend in Research Funding

For several years, funding hasn’t been that much for applied and basic research at colleges and universities. With the increasing budget in recent years, more doctorate candidates provide a consistently motivated workforce to keep research progressing forward, thus advocating even more research investments.

Research funding isn’t only supported by federal agencies but also by private sectors and industries investing in basic and applied research work toward technological innovations.

With enough funding, graduate students in business can find the right infrastructure to specialize in improving their skills and knowledge as a researcher.

Graduate School for Bridging Gap Arrangements

When the global economy takes a significant hit due to recession, admission to colleges and universities increases . The idea is that if career opportunities are low, candidates would prefer to boost their worthiness by completing a higher degree until the economic chaos settles.

The length of time it takes to obtain a Ph.D. generally outpaces the duration taken for any stagnant economy to recover, as proven by historical standards. This is the reason why during the 2008 and 2009 global recession, the number of prospective graduate students grew from 2.4 million to 2.7 million (approximately 12%).

Even in the absence of an economic disaster, enrolling in graduate schools is a common way of deferring a career search or escaping unemployed status.

All About Ph.D. in Business Program

Now that we’ve discussed the general factors that might initially convince you that a Ph.D. in Business is a worthy investment, in this section, we will describe the doctorate programs in various business-related fields.

Here are some quick facts about the Ph.D. in Business program to prepare you for what you’ll need to comply with to complete your doctorate program:

• Credits Required to Graduate – 90
• Number of Specialization Courses – 5
• Number of Core Courses – 8
• Number of Elective Courses – 5
• Number of Research and Dissertation Credits Required to Graduate – 36
• Hours in Subject Per Week – 9

Ph.D. In Business Programs: Prerequisites and Requirements

Prospective students are required to complete a bachelor’s degree in a relevant business-related field or discipline together with satisfactory GRE or GMAT test scores to be enrolled in a specific Ph.D. in Business program. Doctoral business courses are research-intensive.

General coursework includes mathematics and business, as well as elective courses that depend on the student’s chosen concentration.

The coursework is completed during the first two years of the doctorate program. Afterward, they generally spend two years teaching undergraduate courses and performing research work. As a culminating requirement, writing and completing the dissertation can be accomplished in one to three years more. Sample coursework includes:

• Business Research Methods
• Financial Markets
• Microeconomics and Macroeconomics
• Mathematical Statistics

What a Ph.D. in Business Program Entails

Doctorate programs in a business-related field prepare you to perform highly specialized scholarly research work. The majority of graduates with a business doctoral program start their careers as consultants or leaders in the business or government sectors, as junior or senior researchers in a college or university, or as professors.

Ph.D. in Business programs are generally research-centric with an emphasis on the development of new theories or concepts in economics, management, and other related disciplines. Specialized areas of research and study include:

• Healthcare Management
• Human Resource
• Information Systems
• Leadership and Organizational Studies
• Operations Management
• Organizational Systems
• Supply Chain Management

Prospective graduates work closely with a faculty adviser who is a recognized practitioner or scholar in the related field. Graduate students and faculty mentors collaborate on research works and meet regularly to develop the students’ dissertation theories or concepts and research.

Also, they can even co-author papers for publication. The dissertation is the concluding product of a Ph.D. in Business program, and it is typically supplemented by a comprehensive exam or a series of examinations.

Most colleges and universities require graduate students to earn teaching experience to complete their business doctorate program. They often work as teaching assistants for their faculty advisor to accomplish this requirement.

Also, they can pursue additional teaching assignments through their college or university.

Employment Outlook and Salary Information for Ph.D. in Business Graduates

Completing a Ph.D. in Business will provide you with the expertise and skills for an academic profession in any business-related field, as well as scholarly research at the collegiate level. You will also acquire advanced business management knowledge that can be applied to the private industries and sectors.

A Ph.D. in Business emphasizes creating new concepts in consulting, economics, finance, public administration, business management, and related fields.

If you’re pursuing a Ph.D. in business, it will require a lot of effort and time. It is a full-time commitment that requires four to five years to complete the program. That said, it is essential to research what your potential wage could be with this doctorate program.

Additional Resource: FASTEST Online Doctorate (Ph.D.) Programs in BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Ph.D. in Business Graduates: Working in the Public or Private Sector

Earning a doctorate program in a business-related field will result in a higher wage. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports obtaining a master’s program can provide you with an average $12,000 pay increase over an undergraduate program. In some instances, obtaining a Ph.D. in Business will yield a premium rate over a master’s program.

For instance, some reports indicate obtaining a master’s program in business will result in a median lifetime salary of $3.2 million while completing a doctorate program raises it to $3.5 million. Given this, we can generally conclude that earning a doctorate program will provide you with a higher income.

The primary factor for a wage increase is your employer being in the private or public sector.

Most professionals with a Ph.D. in Business work in the educational or public sector, and some are employed in private companies. Here is a general overview of the annual mean salary obtained from a variety of business-related careers in private industries:

• Business Postsecondary Teacher : $108,060 per year
• Distribution Manager : $108,910 per year
• Financial Manager : $139,790 per year
• Market Research Analyst : $78,880 per year
• Marketing Manager : $158,280 per year
• Sales Manager : $150,530 per year

Ph.D. in Business Graduates: Geographic Location

If you are a graduate of a Ph.D. in Business program, you will obtain a higher wage in some parts of the country than in others. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , the national median annual salary for this sector is $131,200; however, your wage can be higher or lower depending upon which state you reside:

States With The Highest Employment Level:

California – $155,120 per year Texas – $119,540 per year New York – $170,150 per year Florida – $121,170 per year Illinois – $128,340 per year

States With The Highest Concentration of Jobs:

District of Columbia – $163,960 per year Massachusetts – $152,970 per year Illinois – $128,340 per year Connecticut – $144,560 per year Maryland- $130,690 per year

Top-Paying States:

New Jersey – $170,260 per year New York – $ 170,150 per year District of Columbia – $163,960 per year Delaware – $157,600 per year California – $155,120 per year

Ph.D. in Business Graduates: Job Titles

Another influential factor in what your wage can be with a Ph.D. in Business program is the job title. Depending on whether you land a career in a private company or academia, your wage can differ significantly.

Here is a quick sampling of the job titles and wages that people with this specific doctorate have:

• Chief Executive : $246,440 per year
• Computer and Information Systems Manager : $173,670 per year
• Legislator : $71,100 per year
• Public Relations and Fundraising Manager : $150,030 per year
• Human Resources Manager : $145,570 per year
• Medical and Health Services Manager : $127,980 per year
• Emergency Management Director : $88,890 per year
• Food Service Manager : $67,130 per year
• Financial Manager : $166,050 per year

Here is one significant aspect: your wage with a Ph.D. degree in Business will also be influenced by the concentration you choose. Numerous Ph.D. in Business programs provide you with concentrations that may have higher wages than others, such as operations management, accounting, entrepreneurship, finance, general management, and information systems.

This section offers some insights into what your wage could be with a Ph.D. in Business. Numerous career pathways you can pursue will affect your earning potential. Once you have identified what you want to do with your doctorate program, you can obtain a better idea of the wage potential.

With the information provided, the primary question – “ Is a Ph.D. in Business worth it? ” entirely depends upon which path you’ll take when it comes to your return on investment.

Ph.D. in Business Completion Rates

Ph.D. in Business programs presents a distinct profile. Not all doctorate candidates will complete – nor should they. Depending on their preferences, they fall into three categories:

1. Those who complete their doctorate studies.

Fairly self-explanatory.

2. Those who can finish but decide not to.

Some students may pursue alternative academic professions, while others may try to venture into becoming entrepreneurs. In these modern times, some people who initially desire to become part of academia may divert to other courses in life.

3. Those who can’t complete their doctorate programs.

Perhaps they lack the motivation and mindset to work on their own. Unless an excellent admissions team intervenes, some students become unable to fulfill the demands of the program and decide to quit.

Each college and university generally provides Doctoral Program Statistics on their official websites. It is one of the methods where prospective students can assess whether a doctorate program in business is worth their time, effort, and money.

For instance, the Cornell University Graduate School has a one-stop-shop with comprehensive information about the statistics of doctorate programs . In 2019, the doctorate in the management program’s admission and the yield rates were 4% and 77%, respectively.

In terms of program retention, the completion rate for the 2011 to 2015 academic years was 60%, while only 19% withdrew from the program.

Some 80% completed the program, while only 20% withdrew during the academic year 2006 to 2010. For 2024, there is a 100% in-progress rate for students who are completing their management doctorate program.

Top 10 Reasons To Pursue a Ph.D. in Business Program

If you still think a Ph.D. in Business is just an additional burden, here are more reasons why it is one of the noteworthy investments you can pursue, as well as meeting your personal and professional aspirations.

1. Opportunity to Teach in an Academia

Graduate students have the chance to teach undergraduate courses or assist professors with their teaching obligations, and some people find teaching a rewarding profession.

Business-related studies can be exciting and fun, but some individuals would want to slow down in their profession after a few years, especially if they want to pursue other ventures or want to start a family.

If you are currently in this state, earning a Ph.D. and some teaching opportunities is a good stepping stone into academia. Deadlines are generally more relaxed, and the work is still fulfilling and exciting.

2. Meet Inspirational People

The business industry is full of successful personalities who have inspiring and exciting stories to tell and provide you with the motivation and drive to succeed.

Although some individuals are fortunate enough to land a career working with someone they admire, for the majority of people, finding a job means working full-time in one place or one set of responsibilities.

On the contrary, academia is more flexible. Generally, it provides you with the opportunity to attend workshops, events, and lectures from prominent personalities or meet someone that you consider a role model at trade shows and conferences.

The majority of individuals are more likely to respond when someone reaches out to them in academic competence and generally share their knowledge in this setting.

3. Explore Your Passion

Majoring in Business opens up numerous career prospects after your graduation. Some people venture into this industry because they aren’t sure yet what they want to specialize in life. With a Ph.D. in Business, there are several opportunities to choose from.

A graduate program offers you more time to explore and discover your passion while still investing in something that will become a massive advantage to your professional life.

4. Have the Confidence to Become Successful

Self-confidence is essential in every aspect of your life, but when it comes to business ventures, it is your key to success. There are several strategies and ways to improve self-confidence, but confidence that results from entirely knowing your subject is challenging to fake.

Business partners, clients, investors, and interviewers appreciate dealing with a person who thoroughly knows their craft and subject inside and out, as well as comfortable talking and answering questions satisfactorily.

Being aware of what it takes to complete a Ph.D. in Business provides you with enough confidence to show you how you portray yourself on your resume.

5. Progress in Your Career

It takes several months or years to progress in your career. The majority of people spend the beginning stages of their profession exploring their footing in the business setting and getting used to how things work.

Your new experience from a business school indicates that you will have the capacity to succeed quickly and will also open opportunities for climbing the corporate ladder within your organization.

6. Improve Earning Potential

In terms of profitability, education is directly proportional to potential income. Numerous businesses and organizations automatically pay higher wages to someone with post-baccalaureate degrees.

Even companies that generally don’t may be willing to negotiate a higher starting wage for a candidate with extensive credentials, and you may be confident enough to ask for a higher range.

7. Specialize in a Field

If you are interested in non-profit management, supply chain management, business ethics, corporate social responsibility, or other business-related industries, a Ph.D. in Business is your key to being proficient in these areas!

8. Develop More Skills

Becoming proficient and competent is more than just a few courses you take in your undergraduate program; it takes a lot of perseverance and practice.

A Ph.D. in Business will provide you with the opportunity and time to develop your skills and expertise in a setting where you have open access to industry experts and high-quality learning resources and tools.

9. Enjoy Networking Opportunities

In the business world, having comprehensive coverage of contacts and a good knowledge of the business industry will provide you with a more significant advantage.

The people you study with will soon become your competitors and colleagues in the future. With that, academic workshops, events, conferences, and symposiums offer excellent opportunities to meet and collaborate with new people and eventually expand your network.

10. Stand Out From the Competition

In today’s modern economy, most career prospects in business and management require some form of business studies. As a result, most job seekers already have a business diploma, certificate, or degree.

Several colleges and universities provide you with accelerated MBA programs, whether traditional or online learning. With a Ph.D. in Business, it is a rare commodity. It provides you with a better advantage and makes you stand out from the rest. Also, it highlights that you are serious about your profession.

Related Links:

• Best Online Schools for Doctorate in BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
• Best Online Schools for Doctors in ACCOUNTING Degree Programs

Rowan Jones Chief Editor

What Can You Get a PhD in? [Doctorate Guide]

What can you get a PhD in? This question is frequently asked by people who want to expand their knowledge and unlock new career paths by earning a doctoral degree.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

You can earn a PhD in a wide variety of fields, ranging from anthropology to zoology. This guide explores some of the most popular types of PhDs, associated careers, and factors to consider when selecting an online PhD program.

What Can You Get a PhD In?

Colleges and universities offer doctorate programs in a broad range of disciplines, so aspiring PhD students have many options.

The best PhDs to get depend on your professional goals, interests, and previous education. Here are ten of the most common PhDs that people pursue.

Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

• Online PhD in Anthropology
• Online PhD in Biology
• Online PhD in Business
• Online PhD in Clinical Psychology
• Online PhD in Computer Science
• Online PhD in Education
• Online PhD in English
• Online PhD in Psychology
• Online PhD in Nursing
• Online PhD in Physical Therapy

The program that’s best for you will depend on your personal interests and professional goals.

PhD in Anthropology

You can deepen your understanding of anthropological research methods and theories with a PhD in Anthropology.

Many programs allow doctoral students to specialize in a subfield, such as archeology, biological anthropology, and sociocultural anthropology. Courses vary by program but typically cover data analysis, field research methods, and public archeology.

Graduates who earn this degree may go on to work as college professors, forensic anthropologists, and museum curators.

PhD in Biology

A PhD in Biology prepares students to contribute new knowledge to the biological sciences. Students can focus on various areas of specialty, including computational biology, ecology, and genetic epidemiology.

These programs often have interdisciplinary curricula that allow students to study advanced biological concepts and research methods. Course subjects may include biochemistry, contemporary biology, molecular neuroscience, and statistics. Current professionals work in bioinformatics, biotech, education, healthcare, and other industries.

PhD in Business

A PhD in Business trains business leaders and researchers. Students learn how to use advanced financial models and strategies to solve complex business issues.

Business PhD programs frequently teach subjects like accounting, consumer behavior, industrial organization, and microeconomics. Additionally, they cover research methods like econometrics and statistical analysis.

Graduates can use their business knowledge and skills to become business consultants, C-suite executives, economists, and professors.

PhD in Clinical Psychology

You can enrich your understanding of the human psyche with a PhD in Clinical Psychology. This degree focuses on researching mental health issues and psychological science. Students also learn how to apply their knowledge in clinical settings.

Typically, courses cover adult psychopathology, clinical interviewing, professional ethics, and psychological assessment. Students may also be required to complete clinical practicums. Graduates often pursue careers as child psychologists, neuropsychologists, and medical psychologists.

PhD in Computer Science

A PhD in Computer Science allows students to expand their knowledge of advanced computer systems and theories.

Curricula often cover a broad range of topics, like algorithms, data management, and random computing. Additionally, this degree trains students to conduct cutting-edge research in subfields of computer science, such as artificial intelligence and cryptography.

Graduates frequently work as chief technology officers, computer and information research scientists, and senior software engineers.

PhD in Education

If you want to research educational approaches and theories, you might consider a PhD in Education. This academic degree trains students to develop new learning methods and promote more effective teaching.

Common courses include advanced qualitative methodology, educating diverse learners, and instructional design. Also, many students specialize in higher education, literacy, special education, and other niches. Current professionals with this degree often work in teaching, administrative, and research positions in colleges and K-12 schools.

PhD in English

A PhD in English gives students the opportunity to interpret, theorize, and teach literature, film, and other types of media.

Courses cover literature from a variety of cultures, genres, and periods, such as children’s literature and Victorian literature. Moreover, these programs often promote interdisciplinary research that engages with history, psychology, and other fields. This degree can help you qualify for a position as a college professor, editor, or technical writer.

PhD in Psychology

A PhD in Psychology prepares students to conduct independent research on human cognition, behavior, and mental processes.

Students also learn how to implement clinical research methods and design experiments with human subjects. This research-intensive degree covers subjects like affective science, developmental psychology, professional ethics, and history and systems of psychology.

Additionally, many programs include clinical practicums. Graduates frequently work as academic researchers, clinical psychologists, and market researchers.

PhD in Nursing

A PhD in Nursing gives students a strong theoretical foundation in healthcare delivery and nursing science.

Standard course topics may include grant writing, leadership for nurse scientists, and methods in clinical research. This degree also trains students to apply advanced research methods to develop innovative approaches to patient care and improve healthcare policies.

A PhD in Nursing can unlock careers in clinical research, health policy, and nonprofit organizations.

PhD in Physical Therapy

A PhD in Physical Therapy allows students to research the science of physical therapy and educate others about the latest approaches to treating ill, injured, and disabled patients.

The curriculum typically addresses subjects like applied physiology, movement science, and prosthetics. Students also learn how to treat patients in clinical settings. This degree helps prepares students for specialized physical therapy careers in acute care, oncology, sports, and other areas.

How to Choose a PhD Program

The right PhD program for you aligns with your goals and sets you up for academic and professional success.

These considerations can help you compare online PhD programs :

• Faculty reputation . Prestigious faculty can assist with networking and connect you with exciting professional opportunities, such as presenting at top conferences.
• Funding opportunities . Many PhD programs offer complete funding packages, which may include stipends and other benefits.
• Placement rates . Programs that place alumni in tenure-track academic jobs and high-paying industry positions may provide excellent career support.
• Research areas . It’s strategic to look for a program that offers courses and extracurricular activities related to your interests. For instance, an English PhD program with speculative fiction courses might be ideal if you want to study science fiction writers.

Additionally, you can contact current PhD students to get a sense of the program’s culture and learn about their experiences.

Do You Need a PhD to Be a Professor?

You don’t always need a PhD to become a professor . The requirements vary by institution and position.

Some colleges hire people with master’s degrees and relevant industry experience to teach freshman-level courses. For instance, someone with an MBA and several years of work experience might teach undergraduate finance courses.

Schools that require a terminal degree may also accept a doctorate degree from an accredited university, even when it’s not a PhD. A professional doctorate degree focuses on practical applications of knowledge, while a PhD emphasizes original research.

How Hard Is It to Get Into a Ph.D. Program?

If you want to learn how to get a PhD, you can start by researching admissions criteria for online programs in your field. Requirements vary by program, so some schools may be more difficult to get into.

Here are some common admissions requirements:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field
• GRE scores (only some schools require them)
• CV or resume
• Personal statement
• Letters of recommendation
• Writing sample
• Interview with the admissions committee

The specific requirements influence how challenging it is to get into a particular program, so it’s beneficial to research the criteria ahead of time.

What Is the Easiest PhD to Get?

The difficulty level of any PhD is highly subjective. But choosing a quality PhD program can increase the likelihood that you finish your degree on schedule.

A PhD program with these qualities can help facilitate your success:

• Classes that align with your research focus
• Knowledgeable faculty who enjoy mentoring graduate students
• Full-funding packages
• Student support services, like mental health counseling
• Professional development workshops
• State-of-the-art research facilities
• Clear program milestones

Additionally, you may finish your doctoral degree faster. A program with less requirements makes it one of the easiest PhDs to get such as fewer credit hours or doesn’t include a dissertation component.

What Are Some of the Highest Paying PhD Degrees I Can Get?

Many careers that require an advanced degree have lucrative median salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , here are the median salaries of ten high-paying careers often pursued by people with PhDs:

• Physicists — $142,850
• Computer and information research scientists — $136,620
• Pharmacists — $132,750
• Political scientists — $128,020
• Economists — $113,940
• Mathematicians — $112,110
• Medical scientists — $99,930
• Physical therapists — $97,720
• Clinical and counseling psychologists — $90,130
• Postsecondary business teachers — $88,790

Many factors can affect salaries and job availability, including geographic location, skills, work experience, and your PhD program’s reputation.

Does It Matter Where You Get Your PhD?

The institution you choose for your PhD can impact your academic performance, career trajectory, and personal life.

Choosing a program that offers financial support can give you more time to focus on your studies and develop marketable skills. Additionally, you may find it easier to conduct and publish innovative research with access to leading faculty and top facilities.

Employers often consider a school’s reputation when considering job candidates, so selecting a prestigious program could boost your chances of landing a preferred position.

Earning Your PhD Degree Online

What can I get a PhD in? Colleges and universities offer a broad range of doctoral programs in numerous disciplines. These degrees enable you to study advanced concepts in your chosen field and immerse yourself in the world of academic research.

Graduates use their PhDs to pursue a variety of careers in academia, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector. Many jobs that require graduate degrees offer lucrative wages and other benefits, such as academic tenure.

If you want to build your expertise and perform ground-breaking research, you can begin your journey by researching online PhD programs from accredited universities.

This question is about business development director certifications .

Can you get a Ph.D. in business?

Yes, you can get a Ph.D. in business. You can get a Ph.D. in Business Administration, a research-focused doctoral degree. This type of degree is best for those wanting to pursue a career in teaching business in academia.

In addition to a Ph.D. in Business Administration, there is another doctoral degree in business, referred to as a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). This program focuses mostly on theoretical information concerning business that one can apply to business management and business overall.

The DBA degree is quite different from the Ph.D. in Business Administration. While a Ph.D. in Business Administration is mostly for those pursuing a career in the high education of business, a DBA degree holder can pursue jobs in these areas:

Private and Nonprofit sectors (Consultant, Management, Business Owner)

Education (Faculty or Administration)

Government (Consultant)

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A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management

Undergraduates Discover a Path to a Ph.D.

Sonia Peña ’23 hadn’t considered studying beyond her School of Business undergraduate degree. “I was unsure about degrees or higher education beyond a bachelor’s degree because of a lack of knowledge and resources,” she says. “A Ph.D. seemed unrealistic.”

However, when she received an email to apply for the Mentoring Summer Research Internship Program (MSRIP) at UCR, she was curious about the possibilities. The program, part of the Undergraduate Summer Research Program, pairs students from educationally and/or economically disadvantaged backgrounds with a faculty mentor and provides the student with a $4,500 stipend.

The faculty member guides the mentee through a research project, and the program provides workshops and guidance in the pursuit of a doctoral degree at UCR or other University of California campus. At the end of the program, students present their research to staff, faculty, and peers at a symposium.

“After learning about the program, I realized it was the perfect opportunity to dabble in research, network with others, grasp the value of higher education, and to learn directly from a research professor,” says Peña, whose mentor was Associate Professor of Management Boris Maciejovsky.

“I knew Sonia as a student from my previous classes, and I knew she would be very organized and methodological, which greatly helps in making the most of the limited period of eight weeks,” says Maciejovsky, who was a mentor in the MSRIP program for the first time last summer. “It’s satisfying to see how productive a relative short period of time can be if students engage with a topic.”

Navigating the Path to a Ph.D. “I strongly believe in the mission of the MSRIP,” says fellow first-time faculty mentor Thomas Kramer, professor of marketing. “It is important to encourage undergraduates from diverse backgrounds to consider getting a Ph.D.

“Undergraduates often hear about ‘research’ and how important it is, but the term is very vague, so working on a research project with a mentor gives them a much clearer idea of what is involved.”

Psychology major Jamison Cortez ’24 was Kramer’s mentee. “Prior to participating in the MSRIP, I was hesitant about pursuing a Ph.D. because it would take longer than a master’s and cost more,” says Cortez. “But I learned that a Ph.D. is typically cheaper than earning your master’s because universities are far more likely to award scholarships and grants to doctoral students. My perspective completely changed, and during my gap year, I will look at different research programs.”

Cortez was motivated, says Kramer. “He worked hard and was always receptive to my feedback. He has a very inquisitive mind, and I could tell how much he grew over the course of the summer.”

Part of the MSRIP is simply understanding how to navigate the process of finding and enrolling in a doctoral degree program. “We had assignments designed to help us through our grad school applications, including personal history statements, and we worked on our abstract for our research. In workshops, we focused on writing,” says Peña.

Visiting guest speakers also shared their own academic experiences and samples of their research during the program. “A few of my favorite seminars were how to create a research poster, how to network with other researchers, and how to battle imposter syndrome,” adds Peña.

Weekly meetings between mentor and mentee profoundly shaped the experience. “Our meetings offered valuable insight and perspective into the field of academia,” says Cortez of his one-on-one time with Kramer. “Those moments give you the chance to ask questions about anything and everything related to academia, and Dr. Kramer was happy to answer.”  

Making Research Real for Undergraduates “I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and to work as a psychologist to help people through therapy,” says Cortez, and the topic of his MSRIP symposium presentation was “Shared Fate Perception’s Effect on Risk Tolerance.”

“Personally, I struggle with public speaking, but with everyone’s support, I found presenting to be extremely fulfilling,” says Cortez. “It also helps that you are presenting your own work, which makes it that much more rewarding.”

Peña is interested in the psychology of business: “Especially regarding gender. As a woman who has worked in competitive environments, it is intriguing to translate those real-life experiences and observations into research,” says Peña, who presented her research project, “Perceived Contributions by Women in Science,” at the symposium. “Research on these topics can help motivate companies and individuals to change their perspectives and initiatives regarding gender equality.”

Maciejovsky is familiar with Peña’s path: “I volunteered as a mentor because in my own journey to becoming a researcher, I realized how important role models were and how chance encounters shape one’s future,” says Maciejovsky. “I wanted to make sure to be available for students who might be interested in pursuing a career in research but may not have had close interactions with researchers and limited knowledge of what research entails.”

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Ed.D. vs. Ph.D.: Which Doctoral Degree is Right for You?

June 27, 2024

Assistant Provost, Doctoral Research and Student Success

Professionals who want to advance their careers in fields such as education, business, nursing and healthcare frequently consider further education. Earning a doctoral degree can be an effective tool for career advancement as well as a wonderful life and academic achievement.

When pursuing a doctoral degree, there are different tracks that prospective students can take. To help you determine what type of doctoral degree will best serve your career aspirations, here is a breakdown of the key differences between Ed.D. and Ph.D. degrees.

What is an Ed.D.?

An Ed.D., which is short for Doctor of Education, is a practitioner-focused degree that is designed for professionals aspiring to leadership roles in a variety of educational fields. You can typically complete an Ed.D. program in two to three years.

What is a Ph.D.?

Short for Doctor of Philosophy, a Ph.D. is a degree that is more heavily focused on research and theory.  Ph.D. programs typically take five or more years to complete. (As a personal example, I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from a research-intensive program that required a five-year, full-time commitment.)

What are the main similarities between an Ed.D. and a Ph.D.?

Both degrees are at the doctoral-level and are considered terminal degrees. In other words, they represent the highest level of education that can be earned in a particular field. In addition, both degrees take multiple years to complete, and both degrees require a fair amount of writing and research.

What are the main differences between an Ed.D. and a Ph.D.?

One of the primary differences between these degrees is that the Ed.D. is more focused on practical applications, while the Ph.D. is more geared toward theory and original research. Additionally, Ed.D. programs usually have a lower cost and shorter time to completion compared to Ph.D. programs.

What are some common career options for those with an Ed.D.?

The Ed.D. is an outstanding option for individuals who wish to lead others and implement change in their organizations. Moreover, the Ed.D. is a focused degree with a wide range of career options, including:

• College or university president
• Director of human resources
• Educational consultant
• Policymaker or analyst
• Superintendent

What are some common career options for those with a Ph.D.?

A Ph.D. degree is ideal for anyone interested in pursuing a career in research, academia, educational consulting or policy analysis. Career opportunities with a Ph.D. may include:

• Community developer
• Director of research
• Human resource manager
• Policy analyst
• Program manager
• Research analyst
• Statistician

What are the employment projections for doctoral degree holders?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , individuals who earn a doctoral degree in education have relatively high earnings and also have low unemployment rates.  In 2023, doctoral degree holders achieved median weekly earnings of $2,109 and a 1.2% unemployment rate. In comparison, master’s degree holders attained median weekly earnings of $1,737 and an unemployment rate of 2%.

Additionally, the job outlook is very strong for postsecondary teachers and postsecondary education administrators , two professions where doctoral degrees are often required. (Postsecondary education is defined as education beyond the high school level and is often tied to higher education institutions.) According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, postsecondary teachers in 2023 earned a median annual pay of $83,380 and there is projected job growth of 8% for 2022 – 2032.  For postsecondary education administrators in 2023, the median annual pay was $102,610 per year with a projected job growth of 4% for 2022 – 2032.

Is an Ed.D. or a Ph.D. better?

Both the Ed.D. and the Ph.D. are advanced degrees that represent the highest levels of academic achievement. Regardless of which path an individual ultimately chooses, there is high potential for career advancement.

Ultimately, the best option for you comes down to your preferred path, career goals and values.  If you are seeking a job as a researcher and scholar, a Ph.D. is better aligned to your goals.  If you are more interested in seeking leadership positions that blend practice with research, an Ed.D. may be an ideal path toward your personal and professional goals.

At a glance: Ed.D. vs. Ph.D.

American College of Education offers high-quality, fully online Ed.D. programs for under $24,000, designed to help students build their leadership capacity through practical applications of research theories. Learn more about our doctoral degrees here .

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ONLINE MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

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Get ready to make your mark. Prepare for your next career success — online, on your terms.

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In 2024, the Purdue Daniels school was ranked as one of the best online MBA programs in North America by CEO Magazine 2

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Earn a data- and technology-driven MBA from Purdue, a top 10 public university in the U.S. Purdue is also ranked #7 for Best Value, delivering both quality and affordability. 3

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About the Purdue Online MBA

Develop the analytical, strategic and problem-solving expertise you need to lead teams and organizations. Learn how dynamic global environments are transforming modern business, and gain the management skills to tackle new challenges, drive change and inspire others. You'll experience an AACSB-accredited, quant-based curriculum that empowers you to ask the right questions while turning data into knowledge.

The Purdue Online MBA Offers:

• Balance: While you can complete your courses online when it’s convenient for you, our program provides 1-on-1 support from staff and faculty who host virtual sessions and office hours.
• Community: Learn from our esteemed faculty in a connected, collaborative online environment, where you still get the full, immersive Purdue student experience. Join Purdue’s worldwide network of students from 135+ countries.
• Growth and Support:  Work closely with a certified Executive Coach from the Career Services Office who provides specialized support in achieving your career goals. You’ll also enjoy 1-on-1 guidance from a Student Success Coach who’s dedicated to your educational and career advancement.

Tuition and Fees

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$62,102.40 tuition for non-Indiana residents, including fees 5

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Purdue offers tuition reductions and scholarships for the Daniels School Online MBA to select individuals, ensuring that career advancement and personal growth are even more within reach.

For more information, please contact us at [email protected] or 877-491-0224 .

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About the Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business

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Purdue’s Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business is part of one of the world’s preeminent engineering, science and technology universities. Our graduates are immediately prepared to contribute and possess the leadership skills to advance their careers, initiate progress and innovation in their fields, and build a better world.

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For the second year in a row, Purdue was named as one of Fast Company’s “Brands That Matter,” a list honoring organizations for cultural relevance, social impact and clear, authentic communication. Purdue is proud to be the sole university and one of only 13 two-time honorees to join internationally recognized brands like Nike, Salesforce.org, Fender and other influential organizations who made the 2022 list. Come experience the Boilermaker brand of business !

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"My Online MBA classes have immediately paid off in my day-to-day. It's been awesome to see things I learn in my coursework get put to use at work."

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"The Online MBA program offers group work in almost every course, which is where you get the opportunity to learn from your peers and learn about other roles or business industries that are out there."

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"What stood out to me about the program was the flexibility. I was working in a position where I was traveling a lot, and since the program is online, I could study from anywhere in the world."

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Application Requirements

To be eligible for admission to this program, the following are recommended:

• At least 24 months of work experience
• The equivalent of a U.S. four-year bachelor’s degree
• A minimum GPA of 3.0

Application review emphasizes your work experience, prior undergraduate academic record and professional training. To be considered for the Purdue Online MBA program, you may be asked to complete an interview with the program manager, and you will be required to submit all the items below:

• Academic Statement of Purpose introducing yourself to the Admissions Committee ( view full details )
• Two letters of recommendation
• Personal History Statement ( view full details )
• Professional resume with education, work experience and training
• Official transcripts for every higher education institution attended. Please note: All transcripts and/or academic documents uploaded by the applicant to the online application system are considered unofficial. Please order your transcripts to be sent directly from your institution to the Purdue University Graduate School at [email protected] .
• Interview feedback

The Online MBA is a rigorous program that requires quantitative aptitude. The Daniels School's online programs admissions team will look for evidence of this in your application via previous coursework. If you feel that you do not have sufficient evidence in your previous coursework to demonstrate this aptitude, you may want to consider submitting a GMAT or GRE score to enhance your application. The GMAT or GRE is not required for admission to the online MBA.

Online Application

When completing your application for the Purdue master of business administration online program, select the following:

• Graduate major: Management (MBA)
• An area of interest
• Degree objective: Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Course delivery method: Distance (online or off-campus location)
• Fall 2024 Term: August 19, 2024 (application deadline – August 1, 2024)
• Spring 2025 Term: January 13, 2025 (application deadline – December 1, 2024)

Transcript Information

• All applicants must upload to the online application transcript(s) and/or academic document(s) for every institution of higher education attended. If a transcript and diploma/degree certificate is not in English, an English translation (certified by the college or university that issued it) must be uploaded.
• The uploaded transcript and/or academic document must be from the official version of the document. An official transcript bears the original signature of the registrar and/or the original seal of the issuing institution.
• If personal identifying information such as a student identification number or Social Security number appear on the document, REMOVE THIS INFORMATION from your electronic version of your document or mark out the information in black ink before scanning your document.

All transcripts and/or academic documents uploaded by the applicant to the online application system are considered unofficial. Please order your transcripts to be sent directly from your institution to the Purdue University Graduate School at [email protected] . The Purdue University Graduate School reserves the right to require official transcripts and/or academic documents at any time during the admissions process.

Letters of Recommendation

• Two online recommendations are required for your application to be received. No more than two recommendations are needed.
• Recommendations will only be accepted through the online application (no paper recommendations will be accepted).
• We strongly urge (but do not require) that one recommendation be from your direct supervisor.
• Recommendations from friends, family members, acquaintances and other sources unable to evaluate professional or academic qualifications for MBA study are not acceptable.
• We require that recommenders submit the recommendations online (instructions to do so are provided within the online application).

Please note that we will not receive your application until at least two registered recommenders have submitted recommendations through the online application.

Required Essays

Academic statement of purpose (2-pages max).

The Academic Statement of Purpose is an opportunity for you to introduce yourself to the Admissions Committee. In your statement, you should share information about your academic background and training, academic objectives and interests, and why you are a good match for the program to which you are applying.

View more information about the application statement .

Personal History Statement

Your Personal History Statement helps reviewers learn more about you and your potential as a graduate student. Your statement may include relevant information about your leadership roles, community services projects, participation in diverse teams, as well as any barriers you’ve had to overcome to attend graduate school.

View details about the personal history requirements .

Personalize Your Degree Plan

It's Your MBA on Your Terms

Design your own plan of study to fit your individual needs and goals. Graduate in as few as two years, or lighten your course load and take more time. For busy adults balancing work and school, it’s important to be able to slow down when you need to — or speed up when life allows.

You can also customize your MBA by choosing from a wide range of courses that best align to your career plans. Want to further hone your expertise? Add a specialization in one of ten high-demand areas, such as Business Analytics, Machine Learning and AI, and Digital Marketing & Analytics.

Additional Daniels School Master’s Programs

Whether you are an experienced working professional or looking to launch your career, Daniels offers a variety of graduate business options designed to suit your background and goals:

• Master of Business Programs
• Online Programs
• Specialized Master's Programs
• Certificate and Professional Development Programs

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1 Innovative Institutions: Source: U.S. News & World Report, on the internet at https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/national-universities/innovative

2 #9 Best Online MBA in North America: Source: https://ceo-mag.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024-Global-MBA-Rankings-All-Categories-.pdf

3 Top 10 Public University: The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education, on the internet at https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/best-universities/best-public-universities-united-states ; #7 for Value: The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education, on the internet at https://www.wsj.com/articles/college-rankings-list-2022-11632246093

4 Graduates at Fortune 500 Companies: Source: Forbes, on the internet at https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaeltnietzel/2021/09/04/the-universities-with-the-most-graduates-working-at-top-fortune-500-companies/

5 Tuition rate includes fees. Tuition and fees are subject to increase based on approval by the Purdue University Board of Trustees. Financial aid is available to those who qualify.

6 Deposit is applied toward the first semester's tuition upon enrollment.

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The 2024-2025 MBA Application is Open!

We just opened the application for the MBA Class of 2027 (enrolling in fall 2025). We can’t wait to meet you through the application process— click here to get started!

Once you are ready to begin your application, remember to carefully review the instructions on our Application Process page and in the application itself. There are a few things to keep in mind:

• We have refreshed the criteria on which we evaluate candidates. We are looking for applicants who are business-minded, leadership-focused, and growth-oriented. Remember, you don’t have to have a traditional business background to apply to HBS.
• In this year’s application, we will ask you to respond to three short essays aligned with our criteria. This is your opportunity to discuss meaningful or formative experiences that are important to you that you haven’t had a chance to fully explore elsewhere in your application.
• We continue to offer a need-based application fee waiver . To be considered, you will need to submit a request form. These requests will be due two weeks prior to the application deadlines.

We encourage you to join any of our upcoming events to learn more about HBS and the application process.

Be authentic, be yourself. Good luck!