Doctor of Business Administration

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is the highest academic qualification in the field of management. The course duration is 3-5 years, depending on the chosen specialisation and institute. Being an advanced academic program, it is designed for business professionals who wish to deepen their knowledge in the field. This degree equips students with advanced skills in research, critical analysis, and application of knowledge to complex business problems, thereby improving innovation and strategic thinking. During the course, individuals are involved in rigorous research work that contributes to the field of business, thus making it suitable for people seeking a career in academia, entrepreneurship, consulting, or high-level managerial roles.

S P Jain School of Global Management is the only Australian school offering a Doctorate Degree in Business Administration in India. IMS Kolkata also offers a 4-year DBA. To be eligible for this course, a candidate must have a master’s degree and 5+ years of experience in the relevant field. Getting a Doctor of Business Administration degree has many benefits. Individuals can enhance their expertise and credibility in the business world and create a network of academics and professionals. After completing the course, professionals can work as professors or researchers at academic institutions or thrive in the corporate world as consultants, executive managers, or entrepreneurs. If you seek a valued and respectable position in the field of business and management, consider pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration. Find the complete details related to DBA in Business Administration below.

Doctor of Business Administration Highlights

Check the major highlights of the Doctor of Business Administration course provided in the table below

ParticularsDetails
Name of the CourseDoctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Course LevelDoctorate
Course Duration3-5 Years
Eligibility CriteriaCompleted master’s degree and have a work experience of 5+ years
Admission Process
  • Based on past academic qualifications and work experience
  • Entrance exam based
Top DBA CollegesS P Jain School of Global Management, Rushford Business School, Golden Gate University, Columbia Southern University, Wilmington University
Total DBA FeesINR 7 Lakh to INR 50 Lakh
Average Starting SalaryINR 5 LPA to INR 10 LPA
Top Job ProfilesProfessor, Researcher, Consultant, Entrepreneur, High-Level Management Roles

Why Choose a Doctor of Business Administration Course?

Pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) can enhance the skills and knowledge of individuals and make them suitable for roles in academia, entrepreneurship, consulting, or high-level managerial roles. Read the points below to know why you should choose a Doctorate Degree in Business Administration.

  • Advanced Knowledge and Expertise: The course equips individuals with in-depth knowledge and a deep understanding of business practices. It also encourages you to think critically and develop innovative solutions to deal with complex business challenges.
  • Career Advancement: Completing a DBA can significantly enhance your career prospects. It prepares you for top executive positions and leadership roles by providing the skills needed to make strategic decisions, manage complex projects, and lead organisations effectively.
  • Research Opportunities: During the course, professionals get opportunities to conduct original research in the field of business. This contributes to the academic and professional body of knowledge and allows you to explore and solve real-world business problems.
  • Professional Networking: A DBA in Business Administration exposes individuals to a network of professionals, academics, and industry leaders. Connecting with such professionals can be invaluable for job opportunities, future collaborations, and insights into the latest business trends and practices.
  • Personal Development: Beyond the professional benefits, pursuing a DBA challenges an individual intellectually and personally. It encourages a growth mindset, enhances your problem-solving skills, and builds resilience by navigating and overcoming various challenges.

What is an Online Doctor of Business Administration Degree?

Online Doctorate Business Administration programs offer advanced business education to individuals who want to deepen their expertise in business theory and practice. The online course offers flexibility for working professionals, allowing them to balance their personal and professional commitments. A Doctorate in Business Administration online is designed for those aiming for leadership roles or wishing to contribute to academic research in the field of business. Like a traditional program, professionals study strategic management, organisational theory, research methods, and specialised topics. Many institutes also offer Doctor of Business Administration certificate courses for a shorter duration.

Types of Doctor of Business Administration Programs

A Doctorate Degree in Business Administration is available in various study modes to accommodate the flexibility of students. Here are the types of DBA courses available.

  • Regular Course: A conventional degree program offering students a thorough education in the field of business and management.
  • Part-Time Course: It is a great option for those who wish to earn a DBA in Business Administration while managing work or other commitments.
  • Online Course: DBA Business Administration online is a great choice for students who need the flexibility to study and research at their convenience due to other responsibilities.

What is the Difference Between DBA and PhD?

If you are planning to pursue a doctorate in Business Administration but are confused between a DBA and a PhD, then check out the difference provided discussed below:

Point of DifferenceDBAPhD
Purpose and FocusIt\’s designed for experienced professionals who aim to enhance their practical management and leadership skills and contribute to business practices. It\’s more application-oriented.It’s academically inclined, focusing on generating new knowledge through original research. It prepares individuals for careers in research and academia.
Curriculum and ApproachIncludes advanced courses in business practices, research methods applied to solving real-world business problems, and a dissertation that contributes to professional practices.Includes coursework in research methodologies, statistics, and theoretical frameworks, along with a dissertation that contributes original academic knowledge.
Career OpportunitiesPrepares professionals for senior executive roles in the corporate sector, consultancy, entrepreneurship, or teaching positions.After a PhD, graduates typically build a career in academia as professors or researchers focused on scholarly teaching and research.
Research OrientationDBA research addresses practical business challenges with the purpose of applying research outcomes to improve business practices.PhD research is more theoretical, aiming to expand the body of knowledge in the field through original research.
FlexibilityThis doctorate degree in business offers more flexibility with part-time and online options to accommodate working professionals.A PhD is more structured and time-intensive, often requiring full-time commitment.
Duration3-5 Years4-6 Years

Doctor of Business Administration Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for Doctor of Business Administration vary as per the institutes; however, the common requirements include the following:

  • Have a Master’s degree (by Coursework) or an equivalent in the field of “Business” or related discipline from a recognised university and 5+ years of managerial-level professional work experience after UG.
  • Have a Master\’s degree (by Research) in the field of “Business” or related discipline from a recognised university.
  • All applicants must have completed their education in English as detailed above and provide certified evidence to the school

DBA Admission Process

DBA admission is generally based on a student’s past academic qualifications and work profile. Find the detailed DBA admission process below.

  • Step 1: Fill out the online application form for the desired college, which is available on its official website.
  • Step 2: Attach your CV/ Resume and university degree transcripts.
  • Step 3: The institute will shortlist potential candidates based on their past academic performance and other achievements, past work experience, and English language proficiency.
  • Step 4: The applicants will be notified in writing that their application has been shortlisted.
  • Step 5: The shortlisted candidates will be called for a personal interview to evaluate their knowledge of the subject, as well as their verbal and written communication skills, analytical skills, and ability to conduct extensive research and contribute to the body of knowledge in business and management.
  • Step 6: Within a few days of the personal interview, the institute will notify the candidates in writing about their selection.

Doctor of Business Administration Syllabus

The syllabus for a Doctorate Degree in Business Administration provides advanced knowledge and skills in different areas of business and management. While the exact syllabus can vary by institution and specialisation, doctoral programs in business management may include the following:

1st Year2nd Year3rd Year
  • Research Methodology and Literature Review
  • Statistical Tools and Techniques for Research
  • Case Methodology and Qualitative Research
  • Research Proposal and Ethics
Thesis Work

Top Colleges Offering DBA Courses

S P Jain School of Global Management is the only Australian school operating DBA from India. However, many other top universities across the world offer this course. Check the list of the top colleges provided in the table below.

Name of the CollegeTotal Fees
S P Jain School of Global Management, Mumbai
  • Offline: INR 45,94,176
  • Online: INR 23,61,271
IMS KolkataINR 4,21,000
Rushford Business School, SpainINR 7,99,000
Golden Gate University, USAINR 8,19,600
Columbia Southern University, USAINR 2,02,500
Wilmington University, USAINR 1,74,350
ESGCI ParisINR 8,35,000
Swiss School of Business and Management, Switzerland
  • Executive Dual DBA in International Business: INR 16,27,075
  • Double Degree DBA Strategic Management: INR 10,84,716
George Fox University, USAINR 47,22,745
William Howard Taft University, USAINR 59,36,832

Career Options after Doctor of Business Administration

After completing a Doctorate Degree in Business Administration, there are several career paths open to graduates. Many leverage their advanced knowledge and research skills in various high-level roles across industries. Here are some of the Doctor of Business Administration careers available:

Top Job Profiles After Doctor of Business Administration

  • Academic Careers: After completing a DBA, one can work as a professor, researcher, or lecturer to contribute to business education and research.
  • Consulting: Management consultants help businesses improve their management practices, strategy, and operations.
  • Senior Management Roles: DBA graduates are most suitable for senior management positions such as CEO, COO, and CFO, who lead organisations, guide strategic decisions, and ensure operational excellence.
  • Entrepreneurship: After a DBA, many professionals start their own businesses, using their extensive knowledge and management skills.
  • Policy Advisor: DBA holders can also work as advisors to government bodies or NGOs, helping shape business-related policies.

Salary After Doctor of Business Administration

The salary an individual earns after completing a DBA in Business Administration depends on the field of employment. Take a look at the average salary packages after DBA.

Type of Job ProfileStarting SalaryHighest Salary
Academic ConsultantINR 5 LPAINR 15 LPA
Assistant ProfessorINR 6 LPAINR 10 LPA
Associate ProfessorINR 10 LPAINR 16 LPA
ProfessorINR 20 LPAINR 30 LPA
Chief Operating OfficerINR 15 LPAINR 20 LPA
Chief Financial OfficerINR 18 LPAINR 35 LPA
Healthcare ExecutiveINR 10 LPAINR 50 LPA
Supply Chain DirectorINR 10 LPAINR 40 LPA
AI Product ManagerINR 10 LPAINR 40 LPA
HR DirectorINR 15 LPAINR 40 LPA
Corporate Finance ManagerINR 12 LPAINR 40 LPA

Top Recruiters for DBA Graduates

  • Amazon
  • Apple
  • BCG
  • JP Morgan
  • Google
  • Deloitte
  • Accenture
  • Morgan Stanley
  • Academic Institutions
  • Research Institutes

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