Best Online DBA and Ph.D. in Business Programs
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Management jobs pay some of the highest salaries of any career path. And a graduate degree in business can help you qualify for these coveted leadership roles.
While an MBA can get your foot in the door, a doctorate in business is the highest degree you can earn in business school. With a Ph.D. or DBA degree, you’ll gain specialized knowledge and skills while preparing for your career in business.
Top Online Business Ph.D. and DBA Programs
Baker College
Owosso, MI- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $750
Credits to Graduate: 60
Baker's online DBA program prepares you for leadership roles and to become a business consultant or analyst. The curriculum includes 33 credits of core courses in subjects like leadership theory and ethics, organizational theory and behavior, enterprise governance of IT, and quantitative research.
The online program emphasizes interdisciplinary theoretical knowledge, research techniques and designs. To apply, you'll need to have a 2.5 GPA or higher and submit an application, a resume, and an admissions essay.
- In-State$9,960
- Out-of-state$9,960
- In-State$12,510
- Out-of-state$12,510
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance Rate54%
- Students Enrolled6,028
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment69%
- AccreditationYes
California Baptist University
- Riverside, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $800
Credits to Graduate: 56
CBU Online's DBA program emphasizes innovation and sustainability and trains you to lead public, private, and nonprofit organizations. The cohort-based curriculum consists of eight-week online courses.
Coursework includes foundations of organization and management, economic theory, strategic marketing, and human resources management. To apply, you must have a bachelor's degree and send official transcripts. You may be asked for additional documents for GPA verification.
- In-State$33,930
- Out-of-state$33,930
- In-State$13,410
- Out-of-state$13,410
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled11,317
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment83%
- AccreditationYes
City University of Seattle
- Seattle, WA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $770
Credits to Graduate: 91
CityU's ACBSP-accredited DBA emphasizes organization interventional thinking, agile business practices, critical thinking, and leadership. You can choose between online and on-campus formats. In the online format, you'll have one live, hour-long, interactive session every other week.Â
You can also choose your own specialization. The curriculum includes organizational development theories and trends, financial decision-making, and industry analysis and market innovation.
To get accepted, you must have a master's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- In-State$13,658
- Out-of-state$13,658
- In-State$11,812
- Out-of-state$11,812
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,052
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment83%
- AccreditationYes
Concordia University-Chicago
- River Forest, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $960
Credits to Graduate: 60
Accredited by ACBSP, CUC's online DBA emphasizes innovation, ingenuity, and entrepreneurship, with a foundation in research and theory. The 100% online curriculum offers two specializations: innovation in healthcare management and strategic leadership and innovation.
The curriculum covers social responsibility and ethical decision-making, doctoral research design for business, strategic thought leadership, and innovative best practices in healthcare management.
For admission, you'll need a master's degree with a 3.0 cumulative GPA. You must also submit official transcripts, a resume, a writing sample, and letters of recommendation.
- In-State$32,660
- Out-of-state$32,660
- In-State$9,090
- Out-of-state$9,090
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled6,491
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment87%
- AccreditationYes
Felician University
- Lodi, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,030
Credits to Graduate: 61
Felician's online DBA emphasizes mentorship and cutting-edge research. The self-paced online curriculum includes courses on statistical and quantitative analysis, historical and contemporary management theory, applied marketing theory, and applied decision theory.
You'll have the chance to engage in transformative research efforts designed to contribute to professional knowledge and practice. To apply, you need an MBA and must submit a resume, official transcripts, and a personal statement.
- In-State$32,550
- Out-of-state$32,550
- In-State$19,080
- Out-of-state$19,080
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate94%
- Students Enrolled2,556
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Franklin University
- Columbus, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $750
Credits to Graduate: 58
Franklin's 100% online DBA offers eight focus areas, including accounting, IT, public administration, marketing, human resources management, and healthcare management.
The curriculum includes courses like statistics; quantitative research; organizational leadership; and strategic thinking, decision-making, and innovation.
To apply, you'll need an accredited master's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. You must have at least 30 hours of graduate coursework in a business-related field or three years of relevant work experience.
- In-State$9,552
- Out-of-state$9,552
- In-State$16,080
- Out-of-state$16,080
- Retention Rate9%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,926
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment100%
- AccreditationYes
Gardner-Webb University
- Boiling Springs, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $930
Credits to Graduate: 60
Gardner-Webb's online DBA program prepares you to lead strategic initiatives, build a healthy work culture, and effect change in your community. You can choose from among five concentrations: accounting, finance, international business, management, and marketing.
Courses include foundations for ethical reasoning in business, advanced business statistics, marketing theory, and a doctoral dissertation.
To get in, you'll need an MBA or other master's degree in a business-related field with a minimum 3.0 GPA. You must also submit a resume, a statement of interest, and two letters of recommendation.
- In-State$31,220
- Out-of-state$31,220
- In-State$9,000
- Out-of-state$9,000
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled3,536
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment74%
- AccreditationYes
Johnson & Wales University-Online
- Providence, RI
- 4 year
- Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $990
Credits to Graduate: 54
JWU's online DBA equips you with the skills you'll need to ​​conceptualize, investigate, and solve complex business problems. The cohort-based asynchronous program focuses primarily on organizational development.
Coursework includes organizational and strategy design, research design, organizational behavior, quantitative methods, contemporary leadership issues, and a dissertation.
To apply, you'll need to submit official undergraduate and graduate transcripts, a resume, essays, and letters of recommendation. You'll also need to participate in a video conference interview.
- In-State$13,365
- Out-of-state$13,365
- In-State$14,148
- Out-of-state$14,148
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance Rate36%
- Students Enrolled2,152
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $980
Credits to Graduate: 60
Keiser's online ACBSP-accredited DBA combines theory and applied research so you can make a meaningful impact on business administration or academia. The program offers three specializations in global business, global marketing, and management.
You'll take classes in subjects like financial theory and policy, marketing management, and micro and macro organizational behavior.
To apply, you must have a relevant master's degree from an accredited institution. If you have a GPA below 3.0, you'll need to take prerequisite courses before starting the program.
- In-State$19,808
- Out-of-state$19,808
- In-State$27,162
- Out-of-state$27,162
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled20,330
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $600
Credits to Graduate: 60
Accredited by ACBSP, Liberty's online DBA emphasizes mentorship and training for the highest level of the corporate world. The program offers 17 specializations, including nonprofit leadership, strategic management, international business, and executive coaching.
Coursework varies by specialization but typically includes current topics in business administration, strategic allocation of financial resources, and applied research.
For admission to Liberty's DBA, you'll need at least 30 graduate-level business credits and a master's degree in business or a business-related field. The DBA information systems specialization has additional requirements for admission.
- In-State$14,791
- Out-of-state$14,791
- In-State$7,935
- Out-of-state$7,935
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate50%
- Students Enrolled93,349
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment93%
- AccreditationYes
Lincoln Memorial University
- Harrogate, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$23,040
- Out-of-state$23,040
- In-State$20,705
- Out-of-state$20,705
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled4,885
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment10%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Leo University
- Saint Leo, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$23,990
- Out-of-state$23,990
- In-State$14,568
- Out-of-state$14,568
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance Rate73%
- Students Enrolled9,832
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment92%
- AccreditationYes
St. Thomas University
- Miami Gardens, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$31,800
- Out-of-state$31,800
- In-State$14,400
- Out-of-state$14,400
- Retention Rate49%
- Acceptance Rate60%
- Students Enrolled5,601
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
University of Maryland Global Campus
- Adelphi, MD
- 4 year
- Online
- In-State$7,200
- Out-of-state$11,976
- In-State$8,640
- Out-of-state$11,862
- Retention Rate55%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled58,526
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment92%
- AccreditationYes
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- Greensboro, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $350
Out of State | $1,130
Credits to Graduate: 54
- In-State$4,422
- Out-of-state$19,581
- In-State$5,219
- Out-of-state$18,937
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled19,764
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment94%
- AccreditationYes
University of West Alabama
- Livingston, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$9,100
- Out-of-state$18,200
- In-State$6,678
- Out-of-state$13,356
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled5,734
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment82%
- AccreditationYes
University of the Cumberlands
- Williamsburg, KY
- 4 year
- Online
- In-State$9,875
- Out-of-state$9,875
- In-State$4,282
- Out-of-state$4,282
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled19,110
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment99%
- AccreditationYes
University of the Incarnate Word
- San Antonio, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$31,020
- Out-of-state$31,020
- In-State$18,000
- Out-of-state$18,000
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled7,917
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment95%
- AccreditationYes
University of the Southwest
- Hobbs, NM
- 4 year
- Online
- In-State$16,000
- Out-of-state$16,000
- In-State$22,500
- Out-of-state$22,500
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled904
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment100%
- AccreditationYes
Wilmington University
- New Castle, DE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$11,430
- Out-of-state$11,430
- In-State$8,784
- Out-of-state$8,784
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled14,769
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment84%
- AccreditationYes
Why Get an Online Ph.D. in Business or DBA Degree?
- You’ll have tons of business careers to choose from, from accounting to advertising.
- An online Ph.D. in business can raise your salary potential and help you stand out from other job candidates.
- You’ll be more prepared to advance into executive roles.
- You can attend a top business program without having to relocate.
- Some online business doctorate programs offer discounted tuition to distance learners.
- You can attend classes and complete coursework on your own schedule.
Did You Know…
Business is one of the most popular graduate degrees — nearly a quarter of all master’s degrees awarded in 2020-2021 were in business.- Compared to those with a master’s degree, the median salary for those with a doctorate is around $19,000 higher per year.
- Professionals with a doctorate report the lowest unemployment rate for any education level except professional degrees.
| Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) | Ph.D. in Business |
|---|---|
|
|
Why Accreditation Matters for Online Business Doctorate Programs
Accreditation matters when you’re choosing an online doctoral program in business.
Accredited universities meet high standards for academic excellence. To earn accreditation, schools must undergo a rigorous review of their student learning outcomes, instructor qualifications, and teaching materials.
A school’s accreditation status can affect your financial aid, educational quality, and career prospects. Many employers and professional certifications require candidates to have a degree from an accredited institution.
When researching online business doctorate programs, check for accreditation.
In addition to institutional accreditation, reputable business schools should hold programmatic accreditation. Here are the major accrediting agencies for graduate business programs:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
- International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Doctoral Program in Business?
General application- Official transcripts from all colleges attended (undergraduate and graduate)
- Test scores, usually from the GMAT or GRE
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume
- Statement(s) of purpose
How Much Does an Online Ph.D. in Business Cost?
Most online Ph.D. in business programs take 4-6 years to complete, costing you anywhere from $50,000-$170,000 in total tuition and fees.
Online DBA programs take roughly 3-6 years, depending on your school and whether you’re full time or part time. This means that a DBA can cost anywhere from $37,000-$170,000.
The main factors that affect how much you’ll spend on your online business Ph.D. or DBA degree are:
- The length of your program
- Whether you enroll in a private or public school
- How much financial aid you qualify for
- Whether your program is fully funded (many doctoral programs are!)
- Whether you opt for a DBA or Ph.D.
Make sure to submit the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for federal grants and loans. Colleges and universities also use the FAFSA to award institutional aid.
In addition, check whether your employer offers tuition reimbursement.
Remember that when earning your DBA or Ph.D. in business online, you may need to budget for things like technology fees and a laptop.
Online Ph.D. in Business Specializations to Choose From
- Accounting
- Business Administration
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Management
- Management Information Systems
- Marketing
- Operations
How Much Money Can You Earn With an Online Business Doctorate?
With a doctorate in business, you can qualify for high-paying management and executive roles. Many of these positions report median salaries in the six figures.
As the following table shows, the earning potential with a business doctorate varies depending on the field and title. Some of these positions do not require a business doctorate, but having one may make you a more attractive candidate. Experience and location can also affect salaries.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2024) | Job Growth Rate (2023-2033) |
|---|---|---|
| Chief Executives | $105,350 | 5% |
| Human Resources Managers | $140,030 | 6% |
| Training and Development Managers | $127,090 | 7% |
| Economists | $115,440 | 5% |
| Project Management Specialists | $100,750 | 7% |
| Management Analysts | $101,190 | 11% |
| Postsecondary Teachers | $83,980 | 8% |
| Logisticians | $80,880 | 19% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Busines Doctorate Programs
What can you do with an online Ph.D. in business?
An online Ph.D. in business can lead to opportunities in academia and research. For example, you could become a business professor.
While an online business Ph.D. emphasizes theoretical and research skills, a doctor of business administration, or DBA, focuses on applied business for those seeking leadership roles in business.
How many years does it take to get an online Ph.D. in business?
Earning your Ph.D. in business online typically takes 4-6 years, depending on the program and your enrollment status. For example, part-time students generally require more time.
In comparison, most DBA programs take 3-5 years.
Are business Ph.D.’s in demand?
A doctorate in business prepares you primarily to become a business professor. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, college professors are in demand, with a projected 8% growth rate from 2023-2033.
What’s more, business professors tend to earn high salaries.
Is a DBA better than a Ph.D. in business?
A DBA and a Ph.D. in business are both doctorates, but because the two degrees serve different purposes, neither is necessarily better than the other.
As a practice-focused degree, a DBA can help you get leadership roles in business. A Ph.D., in contrast, emphasizes research and typically leads to academic jobs, such as business professor.
Before applying to DBA or Ph.D. programs in business, consider your career goals to find the right fit for you.
Is a DBA worth it?
A DBA can pay off. As a practitioner’s degree in business, a DBA emphasizes applied skills and can help you advance into executive roles or gain the knowledge and skills to launch your own business.
DBAs also showcase your expertise for roles in consulting, administration, and academia.
