If you already have a master’s degree in business or a related field, you may be wondering whether it’s worth pursuing a doctorate degree as a means of advancing your education and professional growth opportunities.
For many who are interested in moving into C-level positions or even teaching business at the college level, a doctorate in business administration (DBA) is the next logical step.
Understanding the DBA Degree
Before you can determine whether to pursue a DBA degree, explore what a DBA degree program entails and what you can expect from the overall structure and curriculum of this type of advanced degree.
What Is a DBA Degree?
In simplest terms, a DBA degree refers to an advanced type of business degree that is primarily focused on applied research and practical business solutions. Compared to a more “traditional” PhD in business and its emphasis on theoretical research, a DBA degree program is more about gaining practical skills and knowledge that can be directly applied to a wide range of real-world business scenarios.
Doctorate of Business Administration Structure
While no two DBA programs are exactly alike, these programs do tend to have a similar structure and curriculum. For example, the online DBA program at Baker College consists of 60 credit hours broken up into 33 hours of doctoral core credits and nine hours of doctoral specialty requirements.
Examples of course topics that may be covered in a DBA program include:
- Leadership theory and ethics, including ethical decision-making and techniques for applying these models in practice.
- Quantitative research, teaching students how to gather, analyze, interpret, and communicate data and research findings to business stakeholders.
- Organizational theory and behavior, which explores processes and theories (and how to integrate them) within organizations.
- Global financial economy, exploring ways in which leaders leverage resources in the context of various financial climates to operate successfully.
In addition to core and specialty requirements, a DBA program may include a dissertation and completion of a comprehensive exam (like the one offered through Baker College).
What Do You Learn in a DBA Degree Online?
The purpose of a DBA program is for students to enhance their business knowledge and learn foundational skills that empower them to move beyond standard managerial positions and into C-level executive or similar roles. Read on below about some of the core focus areas of a DBA program.
Advanced Business Theory and Practice
Today’s business leaders need to have a firm grasp of advanced business theories, how to apply these to real-world business scenarios, and how to use different theories to develop innovative solutions within their respective industries.
Just a few examples of the kinds of business theories and concepts that may be covered in-depth in a DBA program include:
- Strategic management
- Organizational behavior
- Leadership theory
Research Methodology and Applied Research
Another core aspect of a DBA program is the research component, where business leaders sharpen their quantitative and qualitative research methods to solve practical business problems through rigorous research. By focusing on research methodology and applied research, business leaders can learn how to use these skills in their own work to solve some of the most complex business problems.
Leadership and Strategic Decision-Making
Speaking of leadership, any reputable DBA program will include dedicated coursework on leadership and strategic decision-making that is meant to prepare graduates for executive-level decision-making in high-pressure situations. In a DBA curriculum, this should include coursework in leadership theory and ethics that delves into the principles of ethical decision-making and mastery of different leadership theories and models.
Benefits of Earning an Online DBA
It’s no secret that earning a doctorate degree takes hard work and dedication. The good news? There are plenty of potential benefits to reap upon completing your doctorate degree in business administration.
Career Advancement and Leadership Opportunities
If you’re interested in making the career transition from an operational role to a more strategic leadership role within your organization, a DBA can help open up those doors of opportunity in big ways. Thanks to the skills and knowledge gained as part of a DBA program, you may be able to qualify for high-level positions as a chief executive officer (CEO), chief operating officer (COO), chief innovation officer, or more. In this sense, a DBA degree can be an excellent choice for those who are ready to advance to senior leadership positions.
Academic and Consulting Careers
Another possibility to consider with a DBA degree is exploring opportunities in academia. Having a doctorate degree in business administration could qualify you to teach business classes at the college and university level, which can be an exciting career move for some.
Working in academia, you could also go beyond teaching to conduct research on business topics that interest you and even have the opportunity to get published in academic journals.
Aside from careers in academia, many organizations seek out professionals with DBA degrees for business consultancy purposes. This can be a great way to branch out into a role that allows you to offer your expert advice and guidance to organizations looking to innovate or overcome complex challenges.
Enhanced Research and Analytical Skills
Because a DBA program includes rigorous research training and education, you’ll have the ability to build your critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. These, in turn, can be applied to drive business innovation and improve organizational performance in your own work. For instance, using the research and analytical theories you gain from a DBA program, you may be able to conduct a thorough study to determine ways to streamline operations and maximize cost efficiency within your organization.
Networking and Professional Growth
During your DBA program, you’ll have the chance to meet and network with a number of figures in the business world as well. This includes not just your professors but also fellow colleagues and other industry names. As part of your DBA program, then, you’ll have a unique opportunity to grow your professional network in a way that could help to advance your career and lead to access to high-level opportunities.
Is a DBA Degree Worth It?
Still not 100% sold on the idea of spending several more years in school to earn your DBA? There are a few factors to consider that might help you seal the deal.
Evaluate Your Career Goals
Begin by simply considering your short- and long-term career goals. Perhaps you want to move from your current managerial role into a more strategic position, or maybe you want to get into teaching business in academia.
From there, consider how well a DBA degree would align with those objectives. If having a DBA would help you reach those goals, also consider whether you feel ready to commit to the demands of a DBA program.
Compare the DBA to Other Doctoral Programs
Remember that the DBA is not the only doctorate program available in business. Take time to compare and contrast the curriculum of a DBA with other doctoral programs, such as a PhD in business. Consider, too, some of the unique advantages that accompany a DBA, like the ability to learn specific skills that can be directly applied to your industry practice.
Assess the Long-Term Career Impact
When determining whether or not a DBA may be ideal for you, it’s essential to look into the future. Specifically, consider the long-term benefits of holding a DBA — ranging from the potential for career longevity, the ability to directly influence industry practices, and the potential to mentor future generations of business leaders.
Likewise, the skills you gain in a DBA program could prepare you for and allow you to adapt to today’s rapidly changing business landscape, helping you maintain a competitive edge among others in the field.
Determine Your ROI on a DBA
When exploring online DBA programs, the cost factor may make some hesitant. However, it’s crucial to consider your DBA an investment in your future, as having this type of advanced degree could open doors to career advancement and higher-paying roles. Even if you invest in a doctorate degree in business administration, it’s easy to see how this investment in your future could pay off many times over.
Earn Your DBA Degree Online at Baker College
For ambitious and determined professionals wanting to reach the pinnacles of their careers in business, earning a doctorate degree in business administration can be well worth the time and effort. Not only may a doctorate in business administration present opportunities for career advancement and professional growth, but this type of degree also increases earning potential and networking skills.Looking for the online DBA program that’s right for you? Check out our online Doctor of Business Administration degree program at Baker College, which takes an average of three-and-a-half years to complete and is available in six areas of specialization to suit your preferences and goals. Request more information about our online doctorate in business, or begin your online application today!