Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs

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Find top-ranked online DBA – doctorate in business degree programs to help students to meet the unique educational and career goals of working professionals.

Top Online DBA Degree Programs

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  1. Keiser University
  2. Wilmington University
  3. Lincoln Memorial University
  4. Belhaven University
  5. Bellevue University
  6. Thomas Edison State University
  7. Saint Leo University
  8. Concordia University Wisconsin
  9. University of the Incarnate Word
  10. California Baptist University
  1. Liberty University
  2. University of the Incarnate Word
  3. Saint Leo University
  4. Lincoln Memorial University
  5. Keiser University
  6. Concordia University Wisconsin
  7. California Baptist University
  8. Wilmington University
  9. Belhaven University
  10. Trevecca Nazarene University
  1. Liberty University 99%
  2. Keiser University 96%
  3. University of the Incarnate Word 94%
  4. Concordia University Chicago 88%
  5. Trevecca Nazarene University 78%
  6. University of West Alabama 74%
  7. Saint Leo University 71%
  8. Lincoln Memorial University 70%
  9. Concordia University Wisconsin 69%
  10. California Baptist University 64%
  1. Thomas Edison State University 20 to 1
  2. California Baptist University 19 to 1
  3. Liberty University 17 to 1
  4. Saint Leo University 17 to 1
  5. Bellevue University 16 to 1
  6. Keiser University 15 to 1
  7. University of West Alabama 14 to 1
  8. Trevecca Nazarene University 13 to 1
  9. Lincoln Memorial University 13 to 1
  10. Southern Wesleyan University 13 to 1
  1. California Baptist University $37,018
  2. Concordia University Chicago $34,310
  3. University of the Incarnate Word $33,100
  4. Concordia University Wisconsin $31,952
  5. Belhaven University $27,825
  6. Trevecca Nazarene University $26,898
  7. Southern Wesleyan University $26,498
  8. Saint Leo University $26,050
  9. Lincoln Memorial University $24,210
  10. Liberty University $22,713
  1. Keiser University $29,632
  2. Lincoln Memorial University $19,654
  3. University of the Incarnate Word $18,540
  4. Saint Leo University $15,218
  5. California Baptist University $13,590
  6. Southern Wesleyan University $13,560
  7. Thomas Edison State University $12,024
  8. Concordia University Wisconsin $11,628
  9. Trevecca Nazarene University $11,235
  10. Bellevue University $10,980
  1. University of West Alabama
  2. Trevecca Nazarene University
  3. Southern Wesleyan University
  4. Concordia University Chicago
  5. Liberty University
  6. California Baptist University
  7. University of the Incarnate Word
  8. Concordia University Wisconsin
  9. Saint Leo University
  10. Thomas Edison State University
  1. Southern Wesleyan University
  2. Concordia University Chicago
  3. University of West Alabama
  4. Bellevue University
  5. Thomas Edison State University
  6. Trevecca Nazarene University
  7. Belhaven University
  8. Wilmington University
  9. California Baptist University
  10. Concordia University Wisconsin
  1. Southern Wesleyan University 57%
  2. Belhaven University 64%
  3. California Baptist University 64%
  4. Concordia University Wisconsin 69%
  5. Lincoln Memorial University 70%
  6. Saint Leo University 71%
  7. University of West Alabama 74%
  8. Trevecca Nazarene University 78%
  9. Concordia University Chicago 88%
  10. University of the Incarnate Word 94%
  1. Belhaven University 8 to 1
  2. Concordia University Wisconsin 11 to 1
  3. University of the Incarnate Word 12 to 1
  4. Concordia University Chicago 12 to 1
  5. Wilmington University 12 to 1
  6. Trevecca Nazarene University 13 to 1
  7. Lincoln Memorial University 13 to 1
  8. Southern Wesleyan University 13 to 1
  9. University of West Alabama 14 to 1
  10. Keiser University 15 to 1
  1. Thomas Edison State University $7,182
  2. Bellevue University $8,310
  3. University of West Alabama $9,100
  4. Wilmington University $11,760
  5. Keiser University $22,000
  6. Liberty University $22,713
  7. Lincoln Memorial University $24,210
  8. Saint Leo University $26,050
  9. Southern Wesleyan University $26,498
  10. Trevecca Nazarene University $26,898
  1. University of West Alabama $6,678
  2. Liberty University $7,847
  3. Wilmington University $9,000
  4. Concordia University Chicago $9,090
  5. Belhaven University $10,530
  6. Bellevue University $10,980
  7. Trevecca Nazarene University $11,235
  8. Concordia University Wisconsin $11,628
  9. Thomas Edison State University $12,024
  10. Southern Wesleyan University $13,560

Key Takeaways

  • The best online doctorates in business administration programs will prepare you for leadership roles and career advancement opportunities.
  • PhD programs prepare business professionals for postsecondary teaching positions, while online DBA programs are for executive positions in the business industry.
  • Many DBA programs delivered online end in a dissertation, requiring students to fulfill a comprehensive research project related to their field of study.

Featured Programs

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Looking Closely At Today’s Doctorate in Business Administration Programs

Earning a degree from a doctor of business administration program implies that you can successfully handle the challenge of a business career that needs high-level business theory and advanced research skills. Most of the time, established corporate officers and business executives pursue an Online DBA program as an academic “capstone” that signifies their accomplishment of real-life, practical experience.

With so many amazing schools across the US that offer an online DBA degree, earning a doctorate in business administration has never been cheaper or easier.

As business sectors like healthcare and technology continue to expand, the demand and value for talented business leaders in healthcare management and project management are continuously growing as well.

The online business administration doctorate program will not only allow you to study right in the comfort of your home around your schedule, but it also gives you the chance to pursue your doctorate without compromising your present job.

Common Online Doctorate in Business Administration Courses

  • Accounting
  • Applied Statistical Analysis
  • Becoming an Applied Researcher
  • Business Strategy and Innovation for Competitive Advantage
  • Contemporary Challenges in Business
  • The Craft of Research and Writing
  • Doctoral Colloquium
  • Finance
  • Leadership and Followership
  • Marketing
  • Organizational Leadership: Doctoral Theory and Practice
  • Qualitative Methods for Diagnosis and Assessment
  • Qualitative and Case Study Methodology for Business Analysis Research
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Technology Entrepreneurship

Earning a doctorate in a business program with a transcript that includes any of the classes above can be a big help to becoming a distinguished leader in your field.

Online Ph.D. in Business Administration Careers

The majority of students pursuing a degree through a DBA online program are active business professionals interested in progressing within their present area of employment. On the other hand, students that pursue the degree online may also secure a career in academia.

Below are five of the best careers awaiting graduates who earn an online doctor of business administration.

Top Executives: These Ph.D. degree holders manage companies at the highest level. They make plans for success to guarantee that their company will enact strategies, policies, and operations needed to achieve its ultimate goals.

Top executives are also the ones that manage the financial activities of a company, appoint employees to major positions, negotiate contracts, and identify where to cut costs. This position is very demanding and often requires frequent travel.

Human Resources Managers: These professionals bridge between the employers and employees of an organization. They help in the recruitment process, the interview, and hiring. They also compensate employees and communicate with the organization’s management about hiring needs.

Human resources managers handle interpersonal issues among employees and staff, oversee benefit programs for employees, mediate conflicts, and manage compensation issues.

Economists: Economists hold a Ph.D. in business administration, and they are those that study data, assess economic problems, conduct studies and surveys, and predict trends in economics to advise organizations and businesses about financial decisions. Economists are also assets in the private sector as they handle consumer sales and demands to maximize profit.

Financial Analysts: These business administration Ph.D. degree holders advise organizations and businesses when it comes to making financial decisions, especially in investments. They study bonds, economic trends, and stocks so they can endorse profitable portfolios and investments. Financial analysts work at least 40 hours every week.

Postsecondary Teachers: Teachers holding a Ph.D. in business administration can teach and handle business-related topics in higher education. They can conduct research in their field, publish books or papers, and even manage their own business once in a while. Postsecondary teachers can work in either private or public universities, professional schools, and community colleges.

Professional Organizations for Business Administration Professionals

Professional business organizations allow students to earn their doctorates and connect with other professionals in the field. There are three major professional organizations in the field of business administration, including:

  • Sales and Marketing Executives International
  • American Management Association
  • American Marketing Association

Frequently Asked Questions About Doctorate in Business Degrees

To maximize your business education and your paycheck, you may want to consider earning a doctoral degree in business. This terminal degree can often be customized to meet the unique educational and career goals of working professionals.

With options available online and in person, as well as specializations and concentrations offered in many different business doctoral degree paths, working professionals are sure to find a degree path that complements their current knowledge, skill set, and goals.

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Most doctorate degrees in business require between 45-60 credits and take between three to five years to complete.

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Students may take courses that cover advanced concepts in topics like marketing, entrepreneurship, nonprofit management, international business, and corporate finance. Programs also typically require a thesis or dissertation for graduation.

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Learn more about what you can do with a master’s degree in business administration (MBA).

Best Online DBA Programs
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15 Best Online DBA Degree Programs

  1. #1

    Keiser University

    Fort Lauderdale , FL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $22K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    34K

    Career Outlook for Business Administration degree at Keiser University

    Cost of Degree: $31,232
    Expenses: $27,451
    Starting Salary: $47,159
    Salary after 4 years: $63,178
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    DBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Global Organizational Leadership
    • Global Business
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  2. #2

    Wilmington University

    New Castle , DE
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Graduation

    23%

    Student body

    20K

    Career Outlook for Business Administration degree at Wilmington University

    Cost of Degree: $9,276
    Starting Salary: $62,610
    Salary after 4 years: $83,878

    Online Degrees

    DBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 54
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  3. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $24K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/22

    Career Outlook for Business Administration degree at Lincoln Memorial University

    Cost of Degree: $19,833
    Expenses: $16,540
    Starting Salary: $55,892
    Salary after 4 years: $74,878
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    DBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Management
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  4. #5

    Bellevue University

    Bellevue , NE
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Graduation

    23%

    Student body

    18K

    Career Outlook for Business Administration degree at Bellevue University

    Cost of Degree: $12,090
    Expenses: $16,395
    Starting Salary: $81,286
    Salary after 4 years: $108,897
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    DBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 55
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  5. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Student body

    14K

    Career Outlook for Business Administration degree at Thomas Edison State University

    Cost of Degree: $12,150
    Starting Salary: $149,942

    Online Degrees

    DBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  6. #7

    Saint Leo University

    Saint Leo , FL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $26K

    Acceptance

    71%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    16K

    Career Outlook for Business Administration degree at Saint Leo University

    Cost of Degree: $18,436
    Expenses: $19,552
    Starting Salary: $67,850
    Salary after 4 years: $90,898
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    DBA in Business
    • Required Credits: 57
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  7. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1055/21

    Career Outlook for Business Administration degree at California Baptist University

    Cost of Degree: $14,410
    Expenses: $15,414
    Starting Salary: $63,819
    Salary after 4 years: $85,498
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    DBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 50
    • Completion time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online
  8. #11

    Liberty University

    Lynchburg , VA
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    129K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1145/25

    Career Outlook for Business Administration degree at Liberty University

    Cost of Degree: $8,405
    Expenses: $19,987
    Starting Salary: $55,624
    Salary after 4 years: $74,518
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    DBA in Business

    Concentrations

    • Accounting
    • Executive Coaching
    • Finance
    • Healthcare Management
    • Human Resources
    • Information Systems
    • International Business
    • Leadership
    • Marketing
    • Nonprofit Leadership And Management
    • Project Management
    • Real Estate Development
    • Six Sigma
    • Strategic Management
    • Strategic Media And Digital Content
    • Supply Chain Management And Logistics
    • Tourism Management
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online
  9. #12

    Concordia University Chicago

    River Forest , IL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    43%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1085/22

    Career Outlook for Business Administration degree at Concordia University Chicago

    Cost of Degree: $9,705
    Expenses: $13,362
    Starting Salary: $57,370
    Salary after 4 years: $76,858
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    DBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online
  10. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $26K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1075/21

    Career Outlook for Business Administration degree at Southern Wesleyan University

    Cost of Degree: $12,954
    Expenses: $12,840
    Starting Salary: $62,073
    Salary after 4 years: $83,158
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    DBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online
  11. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1146/22

    Career Outlook for Business Administration degree at Trevecca Nazarene University

    Cost of Degree: $11,774
    Expenses: $12,410
    Starting Salary: $65,835
    Salary after 4 years: $88,198
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    DBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 32 months
    • Format: Online

Career Outlook for Students with Business Administration Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Business Administration And Management

Degree Level: Doctorate

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $13,044
  • Avg. Expenses*: $17,897
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $146,644
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 6 years
  • Job Growth: 4.86%
  • Number of Jobs: 11,888,900
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Chief Executives-8.21%$161,191
Computer and Information Systems Managers15.41%$134,192
Compensation and Benefits Managers1.71%$124,492
Purchasing Managers4.39%$118,521
Sales Managers4.06%$117,002

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%MedianTop 10%
$55,563$92,094$148,349

Promising Job Markets

StateCost of LivingAvg. Salary
#2 New York5% higher than average$116,372
#3 Virginia5% higher than average$104,589
#4 Michigan15% higher than average$90,047
#5 Georgia13% higher than average$90,306
#6 Illinois7% higher than average$96,596

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Chief Executives$161,191
Computer and Information Systems Managers$134,192
Compensation and Benefits Managers$124,492
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Student Submitted Questions on the Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs

Maxon asks, “How do courses in an DBA differ from those in an MBA (besides difficulty level)?”

Dr. James Barham’s answer: Both degrees will equip business professionals with advanced business knowledge but they differ in content, focus, and outcomes. While MBA’s provide a broad understanding of business operations and management practices, DBA’s provide students an opportunity to contribute new knowledge to the field of business. While both degrees cover a wide range of advanced business topics, DBA’s will be heavier in research methodologies, analysis, and academic writing. In terms of outcomes, students who want to pursue a career in academia will typically get a DBA while those interested in leadership and management roles across a variety of sectors will work towards an MBA.

Luela asks, “Can I typically choose my research topic, or are there specific areas the programs will focus on?”

Dr. Jed Macosko’s answer: In most DBA programs, students will have the flexibility to choose which topics they want to focus their research on, but there might be certain constraints. For example, if the program focuses on certain aspects of business, it might be wise for students to align their research with those areas, or choose a school that aligns with their interests. It’s also important to have faculty members that are experts in whatever subject you choose to study, so I would look into what the faculty members and your advisor’s strengths are before committing to a program.

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