Quick Highlights:
- Temple University and Pepperdine University have top business administration doctorate degree programs.
- A DBA shows you have advanced knowledge and skills in the field and enhances your credibility.
- Completing a DBA program can increase your networking opportunities.
- Those with a DBA can go on to become executives, consultants, and researchers.
In-person Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programs offer a unique opportunity to advance your career. These programs combine advanced business knowledge with the benefits of face-to-face learning. By attending classes in person, you’ll have the chance to build strong relationships with your professors and classmates, creating a network that can last a lifetime. You’ll also benefit from immediate feedback and lively discussions that just aren’t the same online. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best in-person DBA programs available, highlighting what makes each one stand out and how they can help you achieve your career goals.
This ranking was created in June 2024 and the data was accurate at time of publication.
What is a DBA?
A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a terminal degree program that lets you become a business expert. It’s perfect for ambitious professionals looking to boost their career. You’ll study advanced topics like leadership, strategy, and business management. This degree sharpens your skills to help you navigate tough business challenges. With a DBA, you’ll be ready for high-level jobs like executive positions in companies, or you could even teach business at a university.
What are the Best Doctorate in Business Administration Programs?
At CollegeRank, we start with data and evaluation informed by experience. Our trusted team of professional researchers, writers, and editors develop each ranking and resource with future learners in mind. We are invested in highlighting degree programs and options that are known for quality, affordability, accessibility, and return on investment. Our rankings and resources are continually updated with the most recent available data and information on trends in higher education.
In ranking the top DBA programs, we faced a challenge since our data sources don’t track the same metrics for doctoral programs. To ensure a fair comparison, we highlighted programs based on their professional accreditation, quality curriculum, opportunities for students to tailor the program to meet their professional goals, and support services available to help students advance in their careers. All the programs we selected meet our criteria and would be a great choice to consider for your DBA journey.
At CollegeRank, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals. For questions, comments, badge downloads, or data corrections, please feel free to reach out to us at editor@www.collegerank.net.
Related:
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- Should I get a Doctorate in Business Administration?
- Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Programs
Per Credit Hour Tuition Disclaimer: The tuition amounts given are estimates and subject to change.
Temple University
Elevate your career to new heights with the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) at Temple University’s Fox School of Business. This elite, three-year, part-time program is designed for ambitious executive professionals. With 54 credits blending rigorous online and in-person coursework, you will study areas like Advanced Research Methods and Strategic Management. You’ll develop your critical reasoning and data-driven decision-making skills.
Temple’s DBA program stands out with its convenient structure, featuring six on-site weekend residencies per year. This format is perfect for balancing professional commitments while advancing your education. Enrich your network and collaborate with a supportive cohort. You’ll benefit from personalized mentorship and learning from distinguished faculty who are leaders in their fields. Graduates from the Fox School’s DBA program emerge as influential executives, consultants, and researchers.
Pepperdine University
Unlock unparalleled career advancement with the ExecutiveDoctor of Business Administration (DBA) program at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School. Designed for driven executives, this part-time program spans three years and 55 credits. The program provides a rigorous education on the scientific methods to solve real-world business problems. Students select a track to specialize either in quantitative or qualitative methods.
Key features that set the Pepperdine’s Executive DBA program apart include:
Convenient Structure: Attend six on-site one-week residentials during the first two years of the program, making it easy to balance professional commitments with program requirements.
One-on-One Coaching: Students benefit from personalized mentorship and supervision by faculty who are recognized as leading scholars and experts. They’ll give you great advice and support throughout your research journey.
Experience-Driven Learning: Apply theories and research methods to real-world business challenges.
You will join a diverse cohort of accomplished executives from various industries. Small, collaborative class sessions create close connections with peers and mentors. Graduates of this program emerge as influential leaders. You will be equipped with practical skills and a strong professional network, ready to drive innovation and change in their organizations.
University of Texas at Dallas
The DBA program at the Jindal School of Management offers a unique blend of practical and research-focused education. This program is designed for senior business executives who want to advance their skills and tackle complex business problems. Combining the application focus of an EMBA with the research depth of a Ph.D., the DBA program equips participants with advanced research methodologies and analytical techniques.
Key features of the Jindal DBA program include:
- Duration: Varies based on individual pace
- Credits: Required coursework plus a thesis and case study
- Courses: Advanced topics in Accounting, Finance, Information Systems, International Business, Marketing, Operations Management, Organizational Behavior, and Strategic Management
- Requirements:
- Master’s degree and at least seven years of work experience, or
- Undergraduate degree and at least ten years of work experience
You’ll complete rigorous coursework, write a thesis, and develop a case study that demonstrates your ability to apply advanced knowledge to real business issues. This practical and research-focused approach ensures you can address and solve complex problems within your organizations.
Rutgers University
The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program in New Jersey is a unique chance for professionals and academics to boost their skills in applied research. This full-time, 60-credit program can be finished in just two years. Classes are held on weekends and evenings, making it perfect for busy people. Unlike a traditional Ph.D., the DBA focuses on using cutting-edge theory to solve real-world business problems.
Key features of the New Jersey DBA program include:
- Duration: 2 years
- Credits: 60 credits
- Schedule: Weekend and evening classes in-person on the Newark campus
- Requirements:
- MBA or equivalent degree
- Lots of work and decision-making experience
The program includes important courses like Advanced Business Strategy and Business Analytics. These courses help students become experts in their fields. The program is very selective, so students will learn alongside motivated and successful peers.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Choosing the right Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) program can be life-changing, and UNC Charlotte’s DBA offers an exceptional opportunity. This program is a is a great choice for students planning a career in management, consulting, or academia. As the first DBA program in the Carolinas accredited by AACSB, it stands out for its rigorous and rewarding curriculum. Students meet just one weekend a month, allowing you to balance studies with professional life.
Key features of the UNC Charlotte DBA program include:
- Duration: Students can earn their degree in three years
- Schedule: Classes meet one long weekend per month in Charlotte, NC
- Accreditation: The only AACSB accredited DBA program in the Carolinas
The curriculum includes courses like Strategic Management and Organizational Theory. Graduates are equipped to tackle high-level business challenges and are prepared for significant roles in academia or industry. The combination of rigorous coursework and practical application makes the UNC Charlotte DBA program a unique and valuable investment.
Washington University in St. Louis
The Olin Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program at Washington University in St. Louis is a unique, advanced degree. It is a great choice for professionals who want to specialize in finance, marketing, or supply chain and operations. This 72-credit-hour program is focused on applied research helps students solve real-world business problems.
Key features of the Olin DBA program:
- Duration: Varies by student
- Credits: 72 credit hours
- Key Courses: Finance, Marketing, Supply Chain, Operations and Technology
- Requirements: Professionals who plan to keep working while studying
At WashU Olin, students enjoy a collaborative atmosphere with top-tier faculty. The program involves structured coursework and independent research on important business topics. Classes are held on-site, with no online option, ensuring strong face-to-face learning experiences.
University of South Florida
The University of South Florida’s Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program is your gateway to becoming a true business innovator. If you’re ready to join a community of forward-thinking professionals and make your mark on the business world, USF’s DBA program may be the right fit.
Here’s what makes USF’s DBA program stand out:
- 3-year program structure
- 72 credit hours
- Cohort model for collaborative learning
- Focus on applied research and real-world problem-solving
Key courses include:
- Advanced Research Methods
- Strategic Management
- Data Analytics for Business
What sets USF’s DBA apart is its commitment to flexibility and relevance. The program is designed for working professionals, with classes held on one weekend a month. New cohorts begin every January, so what are you waiting for?
Rollins College
Rollins College’s Executive Doctorate in Business Administration (EDBA) program is not your average doctoral degree. It’s a unique blend of rigorous academic study and practical business application. The program is designed for ambitious professionals who want to make a real impact in their field. If you’re looking for a program that will challenge you, inspire you, and transform you into a business leader of the future, look no further.
Here’s what makes the Rollins EDBA stand out:
- 3-year program structure
- 52 credit hours
- Hybrid format: blend of on-campus and online learning
- Small cohort size for personalized attention
- Focus on applied research to solve real business problems
What’s truly unique about this program is its emphasis on creating “scholar-practitioners.” You’ll learn how to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world practice, making you an invaluable asset to any organization. Plus, with Rollins’ strong business connections, you’ll have opportunities to network with industry leaders and potentially advance your career even before you graduate.
Jacksonville University
Jacksonville University’s Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program isn’t just another degree to add to your resume—it’s a transformative experience. The DBA will reshape your understanding of business. If you’re ready to challenge yourself, push the boundaries of your knowledge, and emerge as a true business leader, JU’s DBA program is where you need to be.
JU’s DBA program consists of:
- a 3-year program structure
- 60 credit hours
- Small cohort size for personalized attention
- Focus on applied research and real-world problem-solving
No master’s degree? That’s ok! The Davis College of Business and Technology offers a Post-Baccalaureate to DBA option! This accelerated pathway is a great choice
DePaul University
DePaul University’s Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program is an intensive three-year program that will transform you into a leader. You’ll be capable of solving complex business challenges and driving innovation in any industry.
DePaul’s DBA includes:
- 72 credit hours of advanced business knowledge
- Cohort-based learning for networking and collaboration
- Focus on applied research to solve real-world problems
- Courses in advanced analytics, contemporary business challenges, and research methods
By the time you graduate, you’ll be equipped to lead organizations through data-driven decision-making. You’ll also be ready to conduct rigorous research to address critical business issues. With its blend of rigorous academics and real-world application, this program is designed to take your career to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, a DBA degree is highly respected. A DBA demonstrates deep expertise. A DBA shows you have advanced knowledge and skills in the field. It also enhances your credibility. Having a DBA after your name gives you greater authority in your industry, making people more likely to trust your ideas and advice on business matters.
A DBA and a PhD are both well respected doctoral degrees, but they serve different purposes. Both are demanding and worthwhile, yet their suitability depends on your career objectives. In the business world, a DBA may hold greater recognition, while a PhD is often more well-known in academic settings.
Earning a DBA might help you make more money, but there’s no promise it will. A lot of people who get this degree do end up earning more because they learn valuable skills and gain knowledge that are in-demand by top organizations. Companies often pay more for employees who have this high-level business know-how.
Getting a Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) can be a great choice if it fits your career dreams, especially if you want to be a business leader. This degree can help you get better jobs, make people trust your business skills more, and learn a lot about how businesses work. But remember, it takes a lot of time, it can be expensive, and you’ll need to work hard.