DBA, What’s that?

A Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) is a terminal degree designed for business leaders and professionals who aim to bridge the gap between academic research and practical application. DBAs typically take 3-4 years to complete and emphasize applied research, allowing candidates to explore topics that directly impact industries, organizations, and business practices. This degree equips graduates with advanced knowledge and skills to innovate, lead strategically, and contribute meaningful insights to the business community.

DBA vs PhD

A Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) and a PhD in Business are both terminal degrees but serve different purposes. The DBA is designed for practitioner-scholars who aim to apply academic research to real-world business challenges, making it ideal for experienced professionals seeking to enhance their leadership and strategic problem-solving skills. DBA programs, typically part-time and completed in 3-4 years, focus on applied research with direct organizational impact. In contrast, a PhD in Business is geared toward those pursuing academic careers, emphasizing theoretical research to expand scholarly knowledge. PhD programs are full-time, taking 4-7 years, and prepare graduates for roles as professors or researchers. While DBA graduates often advance in executive roles or consultancy, PhD graduates primarily work in academia, focusing on theory-driven contributions to the field.

Some links for further details on the DBA degree…

Coursera’s overview of the DBA degree

Wikipedia entry on DBA