DBA, PhD or Executive MBA?

DBA

To develop practitioner scholars

PhD

To develop academic researchers

Executive MBA

To provide career choice and advancement options

DBA

Senior executives who want to advance their careers by deepening their problem solving skills through advanced critical reasoning

• Hold an MBA or relevant post-baccalaureate degree
• Work full-time
• Will use the knowledge acquired to address problems and issues in contemporary business

PhD

Individuals with limited work experience who want to prepare themselves for a research career in an academic institution

• May or may not hold a post-baccalaureate (MBA or MSc) degree
• Typically enrolls as a full-time student
• Seeks to position themselves for careers in academia

Executive MBA

Individuals with limited work experience who want to prepare themselves for a research career in an academic institution

DBA

Should have an MBA or equivalent business-focused Master’s degree

PhD

Master’s degree normally required

Executive MBA

Undergraduate degree, all academic backgrounds encouraged.

DBA

At least 10 years of management experience, with at least seven at the executive level; or five years of experience as a lecturer/instructor in a college or university program

PhD

Relevant work experience varies; preferred but not required

Executive MBA

Two or more years’ post-undergraduate work experience showing increasing levels of responsibility.

DBA

Three-to four-year full-time program based on multiple residencies per semester, as well as online learning.

PhD

Four-to five-year program based on full-time participation and full-time attendance

Executive MBA

Various options available, ranging from 16 to 32 months, either full-time or part-time (evening classes)

DBA

The program is set up as blended learning with required time in the classroom and online.

PhD

Students are required to be on campus during their course work for at least the first two years of their program or until they have completed their candidacy.

Executive MBA

?

DBA

Students are required to take eight courses, six core and two elective.

PhD

Students are required to take a minimum of 12 courses.

Executive MBA

Students are required to take 20 courses, 17 required and 3 elective courses.

DBA

• Interdisciplinary, focusing on general management, business and social issues, such as globalization and leadership
• Application of quantitative or qualitative research methods to contemporary business problems

PhD

• Specialized studies, generally within a single, specific business discipline
• Heavy emphasis on a variety of research methodologies and their application to develop new theories

Executive MBA

• Core courses in finance, accounting, people and organizations, supply chain, business analysis, and management studies
• Elective courses in strategy, operations management, marketing, entrepreneurship, business and environment, management information systems, sustainable development, organizational dynamics, human resources, accounting and finance

DBA

Applied research

PhD

Theoretical research

Executive MBA

No research

DBA

Doctor of Business Administration

PhD

Doctor of Philosophy in Management

Executive MBA

Master of Business Administration

DBA

Graduates advance within their organizations to senior executive positions. Some graduates may also teach in a university setting.

PhD

Graduates aim to have careers in a university setting as full-time faculty members. Research and teaching will be their primary focus.

Executive MBA

Graduates are able to advance their existing careers, change careers, or assume leadership roles.

DBA

$30,000 per year for the first three years, $10,000 for year four. To learn more about tuition, click here.

PhD

Tuition is covered by the program.

Executive MBA

$69,000 plus general fees