Doctorate of Business Administration

Doctorate of Business Administration

The DBA program at Birchwood University is designed for working professionals looking to advance their business careers. This practical, applied doctorate focuses on developing skills and expertise in areas like strategic management, data analysis, and leadership. You'll also complete a dissertation where you can explore a business challenge of your choice in depth. This program is perfect for mid-career professionals in areas like management, consulting, and higher education.

While challenging, a DBA from Birchwood University can open doors to senior leadership roles with higher pay and more responsibility. The program is offered part-time (online) so you can earn your degree while still working. You'll learn from faculty who are leaders in their fields and build a network with experienced classmates. If you're ready to take your career to the next level, a DBA from Birchwood University may be the ideal next step. With hard work and perseverance, you can join the ranks of highly- educated business leaders. Start your journey today!

Developing a Research Focus for Your DBA

Developing a strong research focus is key to completing your DBA. As a doctoral student, you’ll need to identify an area of business or management that you want to explore in depth. Think about topics that you’re passionate about or problems you want to help solve. Some possibilities may include:
Improving leadership practices.
Optimizing marketing strategies.
Enhancing human resource policies.
Developing innovative technologies.

Points to consider while determining your research focus

Once you have some broad areas of interest, do extensive reading to identify gaps in existing research. Look for questions that haven’t been adequately answered or problems that need solutions. As you explore, your interests will become more focused. Work with your advisor to refine your ideas into a research question that will guide your dissertation.

Your career and professional goals: How will this research benefit your work?
Resources and access: Do you have connections to people or data that will support your research?
Interest and passion: What topics energize and motivate you? Your enthusiasm will sustain you through the challenges of your DBA program.
Contribution: How will your research add value to business practice or academia? Think about how you can provide new insights or recommendations.
Feasibility: Given time constraints, can this topic be researched thoroughly? Make sure your focus is narrow enough to be covered well within your program.

With a well-defined research focus, you’ll be on your way to making a meaningful contribution in your field and earning your Doctor of Business Administration. Stay committed to continuous learning and growth, and you’ll achieve great success.

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements
Meet the minimum GPA and work experience. You’ll need at least a 3.0 GPA in your master’s program and 5+ years of professional work experience.
Submit official transcripts. Provide official transcripts from all schools where you earned degrees. Electronic transcripts are preferred.
Complete the online application. The application includes personal statements, letters of recommendation, a resume, and the application fee.
Interview. If selected, you'll interview with the admissions committee. The interview helps determine if you're a good fit for the program.
Graduation Requirements For DBA
Maintain a 3.0 GPA. Make satisfactory progress toward your degree and maintain good academic standing.
Complete all required coursework. Finish 60 credits of classes and a dissertation. Coursework blends online and in-person sessions.
Pass qualifying exams. Exams test your knowledge and readiness to move on to the dissertation stage. Defend your dissertation. Conduct original research, analyze your findings, and defend your work in front of a committee.
Apply to graduate. Meet with your advisor to review program requirements and apply to graduate.

Admission Decisions & Process

We evaluate candidates based on their educational background, professional performance, consideration, and openness to applications. Ultimately, we are looking for ambitious professionals with potential for leadership in our business.

Online Application
Online Assessment
Personal Interview
Entry Documents Verification
Final Committee Decision

Admission Application and Graduation Requirements

Application For Admission
All persons interested in applying for admission to the university should complete an application which must be accompanied by a non-refundable required application fee of $150.00 (check, money order, or credit card) to process the application. The check/money order should be made payable to Birchwood University. Applicants must submit all required application documents to be considered for admission. Once a decision is made, an email will be sent to the candidate with further instructions. Candidates will be contacted by their admissions agent regularly to ensure the completed documents are received by the office.
Graduation Requirements
To graduate from Birchwood University, and to receive a degree, the student must:
Complete all credits as stated in the catalog.
Need to earn a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA.
Meet satisfactory academic progress.
Fulfill all monetary obligations.

DBA Course - Key Highlights

Earn a globally recognized online doctorate’s degree equally credible as offline.

100% Online Programs

No campus visit required

24*7 Access

to World class advanced learning management system

World Class Curriculum

developed by experts from Leading MNCs

The Cohort Experience

build your professional network and establish connections across industries.

Program Outcomes

A DBA typically takes 2-3 years to complete. You'll take courses in areas like finance, marketing, and management. Unlike an MBA, the DBA focuses on applied research and developing business solutions. You’ll complete a dissertation making an original contribution to business practice.
Upon completion of the DBA program, students will:
  • Analyze and interpret organizations operating in a technological, diverse and increasingly global environment.
  • Conduct original research on the principles, theories, and leadership skills needed to improve organizational performance.
  • Apply the concepts of ethical and sustainable leadership to manage change and optimize organizational performance.
  • Enhance organizational leadership in a variety of workplaces.
  • Analyze organizational structure to help improve organizational performance.
  • Devise appropriate strategies for continuing professional development and implement these strategies upon successful completion of the DBA.
  • Design and build a publishable research project.

The DBA Coursework: What to Expect

The DBA coursework focuses on developing your skills as a business researcher and enhancing your knowledge in your area of specialization. You can expect:
Core Business Courses

Core business courses in areas like leadership, ethics, and global business trends. These provide a strong foundation in business fundamentals.

Research Methods

Research methods courses to strengthen your skills in collecting and analyzing data. You’ll take classes in both qualitative and quantitative research methods.

Elective Courses

Electives in your area of concentration. Choose from options like marketing, finance, management, or healthcare administration. These allow you to dive deep into your field.

Dissertation or final research project

A dissertation or final research project. This is your opportunity to make an original contribution to your field of study. You’ll choose a topic that interests you and work closely with faculty advisors.

The DBA program culminates in the defense of your dissertation. Earning your DBA demonstrates your mastery of business concepts and research skills to open doors to senior leadership roles. The coursework provides a balance of practical knowledge and theoretical concepts to prepare you for a career as an influential business leader or educator.

Dissertation: The Capstone of Your DBA

The dissertation is the culminating component of your DBA. This intensive research project allows you to make an original contribution to business practice. You'll work closely with a faculty advisor to select a topic that aligns with your interests and career goals.

Once you have a topic approved, you'll spend 12-18 months conducting an in-depth literature review, collecting and analyzing data, and writing your dissertation. This is an opportunity to become an expert in your chosen area of focus. The dissertation process is challenging but rewarding, as you get to apply everything you've learned throughout your DBA program.

When you've completed your dissertation, you'll defend it before a committee of faculty members. If approved, you'll have earned your Doctor of Business Administration! This major achievement will open up many new career opportunities and position you as an expert in your field.

The DBA dissertation requires significant time and dedication, but Birchwood University provides resources and support every step of the way. Their customizable program allows you to complete your DBA at your own pace so you can balance work and life responsibilities. If you're ready to take your business career to the next level, a DBA from Birchwood University could be right for you.

Additional
Information

Additional Information for MBA Program

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