This Online DBA Students Before Profits Award features the top 30 nonprofit colleges with remote DBA programs. The list includes schools that feature either fully online or hybrid DBA programs. It also includes online PhD in Business Administration or Executive DBA programs. The SBP Award was created to promote nonprofit universities that put students before profits and education before the bottom line.
See also: 50 BEST NONPROFIT COLLEGES FOR A DOCTORATE ONLINE
Featured Programs
What Is a DBA?
The online Doctor of Business Administration is a terminal degree. This means it is the highest achievable degree in the field of business. Most doctor of business administration degree programs focus on the theory and practice of business. And they are typically designed for individuals pursuing high-level positions in business or those transitioning to academic careers. Those seeking academic careers should bear in mind that some employers prefer candidates whose education is accredited at the program level. For DBA schools, this means accreditation by at least one of the following:
IACBE: International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education
AACSB: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Accreditation through IACBE or AACSB is not a requirement of having an excellent Doctor of Business Adminstration Program, However, many of the schools on our list have programs accredited by one of these organizations.
You may also like: TOP FASTEST ONLINE EXECUTIVE MBA: STUDENTS BEFORE PROFITS
What’s the Difference Between a Ph.D. in Business and a DBA?
We have included both online Ph.D. and DBA programs in this ranking. However, there are a few differences between these degrees. DBA programs focus primarily on applying theory to real-world practice. This application-based approach is the most flexible in terms of career choices. And it equips students for many excellent roles outside of academia and scholarly research. The Ph.D. can also serve graduates beyond positions in educational leadership. However, these Ph.D. programs focus mainly on preparing students for academic or research-based careers.
Online DBA Methodology
Tuition varies widely among colleges offering Ph.D. in Business Administration degrees. However, the ranking methodology for this review is simple. The tuition fees listed in this article are based on in-state graduate tuition per academic year. Note that the costs for out-of-state or online students may differ. All figures come from NCES College Navigator.
The schools are ordered from highest to lowest scores. All of the programs have been accredited by nationally recognized accreditation boards. And each college has been verified as a non-profit institution.
See also: TOP 10 HIGHEST PAYING BUSINESS DEGREES
BEST ONLINE AND HYBRID DBA PROGRAMS
| School | Tuition | Score |
| UNIVERSITY OF THE CUMBERLANDS | $4,282 | 100 |
| KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY | $5,238 | 99.75 |
| LIBERTY UNIVERSITY | $7,847 | 99.50 |
| UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA | $8,226 | 99.25 |
| UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN—WHITEWATER | $8,270 | 99.00 |
| UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA | $8,350 | 98.75 |
| WILMINGTON UNIVERSITY | $9,000 | 98.50 |
| UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND | $9,072 | 98.25 |
| CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY–CHICAGO | $9,090 | 98.00 |
| INDIANA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY | $10,026 | 97.75 |
| UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA | $10,770 | 97.50 |
| BELLEVUE UNIVERSITY | $10,980 | 97.25 |
| CITY UNIVERSITY OF SEATTLE | $11,812 | 97.00 |
| BAKER COLLEGE | $12,510 | 96.75 |
| HAMPTON UNIVERSITY | $13,099 | 96.50 |
| CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY | $13,590 | 96.25 |
| JACKSONVILLE UNIVERSITY | $13,889 | 96.00 |
| GEORGE FOX UNIVERSITY | $14,158 | 95.75 |
| ATHABASCA UNIVERSITY | $14,478 | 95.50 |
| JOHNSON & WALES UNIVERSITY | $14,706 | 95.25 |
| SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY | $15,218 | 95.00 |
| FRANKLIN UNIVERSITY | $16,080 | 94.75 |
| CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY | $17,190 | 94.50 |
| FELICIAN UNIVERSITY | $19,440 | 94.25 |
| GOLDEN GATE UNIVERSITY | $19,620 | 94.00 |
| FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY | $22,338 | 93.75 |
| ROLLINS COLLEGE | $26,190 | 93.50 |
| KEISER UNIVERSITY | $29,632 | 93.25 |
| UNIVERSITY OF DALLAS | $33,750 | 93.00 |
| SACRED HEART UNIVERSITY | $34,509 | 92.75 |
Best DBA Programs
#1. University of the Cumberlands
Online Doctor of Business Administration
The University of the Cumberlands is a private non-profit college in Williamsburg, Kentucky. Founded in 1888, it is a military-friendly school with over 19,000 students. It has been ranked as the top university in the south for social mobility by U.S. News & World Report.
The school offers an excellent online DBA program that takes 66 credit hours to finish. Courses follow an eight-week bi-term format. And each course is three semester credit hours. Some of the courses include:
- Advanced Managerial Accounting
- Strategic Marketing: Research and Practice
- Corporate Finance: Fiscal Management in a Global Climate
- Comparative Economics
- Managerial Ethics and Social Responsibility
- Strategic Thinking, Decision-Making, and Innovation
- Inferential Statistics
- Advanced Statistical Applications
- Professional Writing and Proposal Development
- Advanced Research Methods
Students in this Doctor of Business Administration Program must also select a content specialty area. In their specialty, they must complete at least 24 credit hours. The disciplines to choose from include:
- Accounting
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Healthcare Administration
- Marketing
- Project Management
- Strategic Management
This IACBE-accredited Doctor of Business Adminstration Program is offered through the school’s Hutton School of Business. University of the Cumberlands is the least expensive of all the business administration doctoral programs on our list.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $4,282
Online DBA Score: 100
See also: BEST PHD IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS ONLINE: STUDENTS BEFORE PROFITS
#2. KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY
Online PhD in Business Administration
Kennesaw State University offers an innovative online Ph.D. in Business Administration. This is one of the most affordable business administration programs on our list. This Ph.D. business program is one of the country’s first non-traditional research-focused doctoral programs. And it makes the most advanced level of education accessible to working professionals. Some of the courses include:
Kennesaw State University is a leader in innovative teaching and learning. The school offers more than 150 to almost 40,000 students. It is comprised of 13 colleges across two campuses in Atlanta, Georgia. KSU is the third largest university in Georgia. It’s also one of the nation’s top 50 largest public universities. In addition, it is classified as a doctoral research institution and is a member of the State University System of Georgia.
- Introduction to Research
- Research Methods and Basic Data Analysis
- Analysis of Variance Designs
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Regression Analysis
- Doctoral Directed Study
- Advanced Business Research Analysis
- Human Resources
The program is structured so that students should be able to finish in three years. The program’s first two years involve coursework undertaken with a cohort group. Then, during subsequent years of the program, students enroll in dissertation work. They complete research and writing of an original thesis and defend that work in their final semester of study. Students can also pursue concentration options with this Doctor of Business Adminstration program. These include Accounting, Information Systems, Management, or Marketing.
One advantage of this affordable online DBA program is that participants can continue their full-time jobs while pursuing the degree. This is due to the intense once-a-month residency structure of the program. Students also have up to five years to complete the program. This is one of the cheapest online DBA programs on our list.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $5,238
Online DBA Score: 99.75
#3. LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
Online Doctor of Business Administration
Liberty University is a liberal arts institution comprised of schools and colleges. The University offers over 700 programs from the certificate to the doctoral level. Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, it was founded in 1971 by the Reverend Jerry Falwell. Liberty is committed to fostering a Christian scholarly environment that nurtures the mind and spirit. When including online enrollment, Liberty University serves over 100,000 students. It is the nation’s largest private nonprofit university. And it is also the largest Christian university in the world.
Liberty University offers a Doctor of Business Administration online. It provides advanced training in the field. And it focuses on professional management, human resources, marketing, and other business-related topics. This online nonprofit DBA is full of specialized courses. All are designed to provide the skills and knowledge needed to pursue high-level business careers. It features online instruction with three one-week intensives on Liberty’s campus in Lynchburg. Students must choose from 17 available concentrations. These include:
- Accounting
- Executive Coaching
- Finance
- Healthcare Management
- Human Resources
- Information Systems
- International Business
- Leadership
- Marketing
- Nonprofit Leadership and Management
- Project Management
- Real Estate Management
- Six Sigma
- Strategic Management
- Strategic Media and Digital Content
- Supply Chain Management and Logistics
- Tourism Management
Sixty total credits are required for the completion of this affordable online DBA program. The program is accredited by ACBSP. And it is one of only three percent of business schools worldwide to earn the designation. Students at Liberty have access to a wide range of online resources. These include a library, writing center, supplemental instruction, and more.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $7,847
Online DBA Score: 99.50
#4. UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA
Online Doctor of Business Administration
The University of South Alabama is a public research university in Mobile, Alabama. This school aims to be a learning environment that nurtures hands-on learning and high-level research. The programs at USA empower students and faculty to become leaders in their fields of expertise. USA offers over 90 programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. There are ten colleges at the University, and it enrolls over 16,000 students.
The Mitchell College of Business offers a Doctor of Business Administration program. It includes an optional Management Concentration. The program is designed for high-level business people. However, it is also suitable for aspiring academic faculty. Students will focus on developing a comprehensive understanding of Business Administration. Classes meet the first or last weekend of each month from Thursday evenings through Sunday afternoons. Attendance is required. Because of this, the program does not have as much built-in flexibility as many others on our list. However, because it does have limited residency requirements, we’ve included it in our ranking. A minimum of 42 credits are needed for completion of the Doctor of Business Administration program. Some of the courses in the DBA may include:
- Research and Teaching Concepts
- Organizational Behavior
- Organizational Theory and Change
- Multivariate Analysis
- Advanced Statistics and Applied Research
- Research Designs and Methods
- Structural Equation Modeling
- Business Strategy
- Project Management
- Corporate Social Responsibility
- Financial Management
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $8,226
Online DBA Score: 99.25
#5. UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN—WHITEWATER
Online Doctor of Business Administration
The University of Wisconsin in Whitewater is a public university connected to the UW System. The University was founded in 1868 and now has 47 undergraduate majors and 13 graduate programs. UW has a student body of over 12,000.
UW Whitewater’s Doctor of Business Administration online is a professional doctoral business administration degree. It’s one of the top accredited online DBA programs we’ve found. The program gives students a deep understanding of specialized areas of business. And it’s highly personalized. Students will study and conduct original research in an area of interest to them. The online DBA is a 60-credit program following a cohort mode. There are on-campus classes one weekend each month over two years. Students complete dissertation work following these two years of coursework.
Between in-person classes, students participate through an online learning platform. There, they interact with faculty and fellow students. Assignments and other learning activities are submitted through the online platform. And the curriculum is geared toward the most current knowledge in the field of business. As a result, graduates will be equipped as leaders whether working in business or academic settings. Students in this program are shown the latest tools and techniques for solving real business problems. Some of the courses include:
- Contemporary Business Issues
- Measurement and Research Design in Business
- Applied Regression Analysis
- Applied Multivariate Methods
- Scientific Inquiry in Business
- Contemporary Research Methods and Dissertation Design
- Micro Issues in Business
- Macro Issues in Business
- Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Global Issues in Business
- Human Resources
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $8,270
Online DBA Score: 99.00
Related: IS A MASTER’S IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION RIGHT FOR ME?
#6. UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA
Online DBA Program
The University of South Florida is a public research university located in Tampa. USF is a member of the State University System of Florida. And it is classified by the Carnegie Foundation as an R1 top-tier research university. Founded in 1956, USF serves over 50,000 students. It comprises 14 colleges offering over 180 programs on campus and online.
The school offers an excellent online Doctor of Business Administration program. It is administered through the Muma College of Business. And it provides graduates with the skills needed to conduct rigorous application-oriented research. In addition, students will learn to solve real-world problems in business. The program utilizes a hybrid model of online and face-to-face instruction. And the curriculum is designed to build on previous business acumen. Some of the courses include:
- Research Skills
- Informing Science
- Applied Linear Statistics
- Creativity & Innovation
- Business Analytics
- Organizational Climate
Students in this program have the flexibility to focus more intensely on personal areas of interest. The program requires five face-to-face weekends (Friday/Saturday). These residency intensives take place each semester. A minimum of 72 credits are needed for the completion of the program.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition:$8,350
Online DBA Score: 98.75
#7. WILMINGTON UNIVERSITY
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration
Wilmington University is a private, nonprofit university. The school offers a range of excellent programs from the undergraduate to doctoral levels. The university was founded in 1968 and now enrolls a diverse student body of over 18,000. Wilmington is committed to providing accessible education for non-traditional adult students. So they offer flexible programs that can accommodate busy work schedules. For example, WU’s Fusion programs utilize a hybrid model. This format combines online learning with classroom meetings. And it brings students a variety of programs that can be completed at an accelerated pace.
The online Doctor of Business Administration program is offered by the school’s College of Business. It is designed to enhance the competencies of its candidates. Students will learn to make significant management and leadership contributions within any organization. The DBA online degree provides students with the knowledge and skills to work in business settings. But graduates will also be qualified to provide business instruction in university classrooms.
The online DBA is designed to be completed through a part-time schedule. This format accommodates working professionals already in business and education. A minimum of 54 credits are required for completion of the business administration degree. Some of the courses include:
- Experiential Learning: Leadership Issues
- Ethics in Business and Management
- Business Intelligence
- Managing Innovation and Change
- Managerial Finance and Accounting
- Organizational Strategy and Policy
- Executive Decision-Making
- Global Management Models
- Advanced Organizational Behavior
- Advanced Marketing
- Disciplined Inquiry
- Statistics for Research
- Research Design
- International Business
- Project Management
- Financial Management
- Business Development
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $9,000
Online DBA Score: 98.50
#8. UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND
Online Doctor of Management
The University of Maryland is one of the largest distance-learning colleges in the world. The school serves over 90,000 students worldwide. They offer traditional on-campus programs, hybrid programs, and fully online programs. There are degrees available across all subjects. And students can earn everything from certificates to doctoral degrees. The main campus is in Adelphi. But the online programs are offered through the University of Maryland Global Campus.
The online Doctor of Management at UM is a scholar-practitioner-based doctorate program. It is designed for full-time, experienced, working professionals. This hybrid doctoral program utilizes online seminars and onsite residencies. Residency requirements consist of one (two-day) intensive per semester. The program emphasizes practical application, applied research, and knowledge to solve real-world issues. Students are prepared with vital business knowledge and skills such as:
- Theory and Strategic Thinking in Management Issues
- Organizational Leadership and Change
- Analysis of Various Methods of Research
- Innovation and Sustainability Within a Global Business Environment
A minimum of 48 credits is required to complete the business administration online degree. Highly motivated students can complete the program in about three years. That includes the dissertation. However, the time to complete the program will depend on your circumstances. There are nine courses, and students must take them in order. Additionally, students can only complete one course per term. You are given seven years to complete the entire program. Students follow a cohort model, so they work through the program with a group of fellow students.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $9,072
Online DBA Score: 98.25
#9. CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY–CHICAGO
Online DBA Program
Concordia University is based in River Forest, Illinois. This private Lutheran university offers more than 100 degrees. It began as a teaching seminary in Milwaukee. And it is now the oldest school within the Concordia system. It is known as one of the nation’s most affordable private Christian universities. The school has developed an extensive list of online programs. And today, many of Concordia’s degrees are available remotely.
The school offers a terrific online Doctor of Business Administration program. This program is designed to provide the highest level of business education. As a result, it gives gifted leaders an advanced professional development opportunity. A unique aspect of the business administration degree is that students will begin working on their dissertation during the first semester. This allows them to hone their original research over the entire course of the program.
The DBA program requires 60 credits for completion. It takes about three years. In addition, students take nine credits in one of two specializations. Some of the courses include:
- Foundations of the Doctoral Experience
- The Global Leader: Social Responsibility and Ethical Decision Making
- Global Concepts in Strategic Marketing
- Strategy Formulation, Deployment, and Innovation: A Global Perspective
- Business Analytics and Financial Decision Making
- Global Business Operations
- Research Design
- Quantitative Research and Advanced Statistics
- Qualitative Research
- Strategic Leadership Thought
- Disruptive Innovation Execution
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $9,090
Online DBA Score: 98.00
#10. INDIANA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Global Leadership
Indiana Tech is a private, not-for-profit university. The school was founded in 1930 in Fort Wayne and has a strong career-oriented focus. And it specializes in a wide range of degree programs. The college is dedicated to its mission to provide learners with professional education. Programs are designed to prepare students for leadership in the global 21st century. And a primary goal at Indiana Tech is to motivate students toward a life of significance and worth. Indiana Tech enrolls over 9,600 students.
Indiana Tech offers a Global Leadership Ph.D. online business administration degree program. It aims to build socially conscious, culturally sensitive leaders. Students in the program will examine systems of organization in complex business environments. And they will learn about the interaction between global business leaders and citizens. The business administration online degree program prepares students for leadership positions in the private and public sectors. Plus, it will also prepare them for academic careers in higher education.
A few of the exciting courses in the program may include:
- International Organizational Behavior & Culture
- Strategic Branding & Public Relations
- Multinational Management
- Managing Innovation & the Learning Organization
- International Strategy & Decision Making
- Managing Financial Performance & Accountability
- International Business
- Business Development
- Organizational Leadership
- Technology Management
- Educational Leadership
Some weekend residencies are required besides the online coursework. Residency periods take place once a semester. They require students’ intensive participation Friday through Sunday afternoon. A minimum of 60 credits are required to complete this online Ph.D. in business.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $10,026
Online DBA Score: 97.75
See Also: TOP PODCASTS FOR BUSINESS STUDENTS
#11. UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
Online DBA Program
The University of Florida is a major research institution in Gainesville. UF is the oldest public university in the state of Florida. And with over 50,000 students enrolled, it is among the largest public universities nationwide. There are 16 different colleges set on the main campus. In addition to its traditional programs, students can choose from a wide selection of online degree programs. They include everything from the undergraduate level through the doctoral level.
The Warrington College of Business at UF offers an online Doctor of Business Administration program. It is provided as a possible track within the Ph.D. business administration degree program. The online DBA program is designed to integrate business practice with theory. And to use skills to best address current problems that are faced within businesses. The program emphasizes applied theory and research toward innovative solutions to real-world problems.
Students in this program follow a rigorous curriculum. The program is designed to build competence in applied research. This involves developing skills in analysis and methodology. Graduates will be equipped for high-level positions in numerous sectors. These include educational leadership, private business, and consulting. The DBA Program encompasses 60 credit hours and takes approximately three years to complete. This business administration online program is a professional, non-resident program with limited campus visits.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $10,770
Online DBA Score: 97.50
#12. BELLEVUE UNIVERSITY
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Human Capital Management
Bellevue University was founded in 1966 and is headquartered in Bellevue, Nebraska. Bellevue enrolls over 10,000 students and is one of the largest colleges in the state. The University is recognized for its dedication to preparing students for lifelong success. And it offers both affordable and accessible education. In addition, the school relentlessly pursues its mission to provide education for working adults. And it does so through an expansive array of online and flexible distance degree programs.
The school’s online Ph.D. in Human Capital Management teaches the latest knowledge and practice in organizations. The program equips graduates with the tools to provide effective design in development programs. Doctoral students learn to weigh the effectiveness of investments. And they will see how to communicate with key leaders in business organizations. There are four distinct learning modules for the curriculum. And some of the courses include:
- Strategic Management of Human-Derived Sources of Capital
- Human Capital Development and Productivity
- Economics of Human Capital Valuation Issues
- Leadership Theory
- Human Learning and Decision Making
- Technology, Social Learning, and Innovation
- Research in Organizations
- Human Capital Modeling and Research
- Leading and Aligning Human Capital
- Performance Management
- Advance Analysis and Presentation Methods
The program is one of the best fully online DBA programs on our list. However, it does require two intensive residencies on Bellevue’s campus. This program is an excellent choice for working professionals pursuing a business administration doctoral degree. A minimum of 66 credits is required to graduate from the program.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $10,980
Online DBA Score: 97.25
#13. CITY UNIVERSITY OF SEATTLE
Online DBA Program
City University of Seattle is a private, nonprofit institution founded in 1973. This school was explicitly created to provide higher education for working adults. Based in Seattle, CityU has 27 campuses worldwide and enrolls over 7,600 students. The University is dedicated to changing lives for good. And it offers high-quality, relevant education to anyone who desires to learn.
The school offers a Doctor of Business Administration designed for busy professionals. In this program, students will develop advanced business skills in several key areas. These include business practice, organization, intervention, leadership, and critical thinking. Students will also work on a self-defined area of business of interest to them. This is a unique aspect of this online program. The DBA at CityU allows students to customize the degree to fit their personal and professional goals. Coursework is delivered online through the school’s interactive teaching platform. And it includes one hour of lecture and live discussion per week. Doctoral students may transfer up to four graduate-level courses into this program. It requires 91 quarter credits for completion. The DBA degree program is available entirely online and includes courses like:
- Organizational Development Theories and Trends
- Financial Decision Making
- Organizational Identity and Culture
- Technology Implementation and Change Management
- Industry Analysis and Market Innovation
- Business Process Analysis and Strategic Management
CityU has many excellent resources available for online students. For example, they offer academic and career services, a counseling center, and other services. Students are also encouraged to get involved in student clubs and activities.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Tuition: $11,812
Online DBA Score: 97.00
#14. BAKER COLLEGE
Online DBA
Baker College is Michigan’s largest private nonprofit college. It has 13 locations statewide and an online campus. It’s an older college established in 1911 in Flint Township. Baker aims to impart job-specific training to its students. But the school also emphasizes broad academic development. Baker offers a wide variety of academic programs. These programs are designed to help students prepare for careers in demand in the coming years.
Baker’s Doctor of Business Administration program is for MBA graduates. It provides a path to gain more advanced knowledge and skills. The program will strongly improve participants’ business practices. However, it is reserved for only the most motivated business practitioners who can set new standards for best practices. Baker is looking for students who will contribute solutions to current business problems. The DBA online program builds expertise through coursework, research, and intensive residencies. A minimum of 90 quarter credits are required for completion of the DBA degree program. Some of the courses include:
- Doctoral Writing and Literature Review
- Leading 21st Century Organizations
- Quality and Lean Management
- Corporate and Personal Ethics
- Managing in a World-Wide Context
- Global Financial Economy
- Introduction to Research Methods and Designs
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $12,510
Online DBA Score: 96.75
#15. HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration
Hampton University is a private, nonprofit university located in Hampton, Virginia. It is a progressive institution that provides a wide variety of academic degree programs at all levels. Hampton is one of the top historically black universities in the world. And the school features a tight-knit community of learners and scholars from across the nation and the world. Today the university enrolls over 5,000 students.
The Ph.D. in Business Administration online is designed for professionals who want to advance their careers in business. It provides students with skills to become high-level business consultants or academic faculty. Additionally, it is ideal for those already working in administrative positions. The program provides the skills needed for students to advance to leadership positions in the business world. The coursework is primarily online. But, students will need to attend two residencies on campus. These residencies take place over four weeks in July and August. And they happen during the first and second years of the program.
Sixty-one credits are needed for completion. However, as many as 81 credits may be required, depending on how long a student’s dissertation takes. In general, it takes about three and a half years to graduate. The Hampton University School of Business is accredited by IACBE. Some of the courses in the online Ph.D. business program include:
- Organizational Behavior
- Advanced Computer Applications
- Advanced Topics in Research
- Managerial Economics
- Teaching Methodology
- Organization Theory and Practice
- Behavioral Research Methods
- Empirical Research Methods
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $13,099
Online DBA Score: 96.50
Related: TOP 25 ONLINE MASTER’S INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS PROGRAMS
#16. CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY
Online DBA Program
California Baptist University is a private Christian university headquartered in Riverside, California. The school offers bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate programs. And students can complete a range of these programs entirely online. CBU aspires to provide students with a deep understanding of and engagement with their purpose. This is accomplished by providing a Christocentric education. So the school has an integrated approach to spiritual and social development.
The online Doctor of Business Administration at CBU is designed to develop innovative leaders. It’s for students who seek to maximize impact in public, private, and non-profit organizations. This 50-credit online DBA has been created for working professionals. It can be completed in three years, including dissertation work. The DBA program is primarily online, but students are required to visit campus for intensive residencies. These include a four-day orientation and a dissertation defense in Riverside, California. A minimum of 50 credits are needed for the completion of the degree. Some of the courses include:
- Foundations of Organization and Management
- Ethics in Organizations and Management
- Financial Analysis for Decision Making
- Applying Economic Theory to Business
- International Business in Global Markets
- Strategic Marketing
- Topics in Human Resource Management
- Research Design
- Data Analysis and Interpretation
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Tuition: $13,590
Online DBA Score: 96.25
#17. JACKSONVILLE UNIVERSITY
Online Doctor of Business Administration
Jacksonville University is a private nonprofit university located in Jacksonville, Florida. Founded in 1934, JU enrolls over 3,700 students and offers over 70 programs at varying levels. U.S. News & World Report has named it an “America’s Best College” in the south for over ten consecutive years. One of the school’s missions is to empower students for life-long growth as global citizens.
The Davis College of Business at JU offers a Doctor of Business Administration program. This DBA is a rigorous academic program. Candidates use analytics and research methodology to solve current business challenges. It is geared toward students who aspire to work in academic or high-level business environments. And it is attractive to students with a wide range of professional goals and interests in the business world.
This online business administration doctorate degree boasts a research-intensive curriculum. Some of the courses in the program include:
- Advanced Statistics and Applications
- Entrepreneurial Behavior in Organizations
- Methodology Behavioral Models
- Archival Research Methods
- Research Applied to Organizational Problems
- Advanced Managerial Accounting
- Marketing with a Global Mindset
- Applied Econometrics
- Corporate Mergers, Acquisitions, and Valuations
- Quantitative Methods Executive Decision Making
- Technical and Analytical Innovation
- Applied Archival Research in Business
- Strategic Leadership
- Human Resources
This is a hybrid program. Classes meet once a month, all day Friday and Saturday. Learning takes place both on campus and via online platforms. This format facilitates exchanges between faculty and peers. Students can earn the online DBA in a minimum of three years with the completion of 60 credits. The first two years are dedicated to completing the required coursework, and the final year is dedicated to dissertation work.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $13,889
Online DBA Score: 96.00
#18. GEORGE FOX UNIVERSITY
Online DBA Program
George Fox University is an evangelical Quaker university located in Newberg, Oregon. However, the school has other campuses in the state in Portland, Salem, and Redmond. Established in 1885, the university now enrolls over 3,500 students. And it offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. In addition, GFU participates in the Richter Scholars program. This program sponsors 15-25 students a year to conduct an original research project.
George Fox has a hybrid Doctor of Business Administration program. It is designed for those dedicated to pursuing business knowledge with an integrated Christian value system. The program equips students in various business disciplines, with a unique focus on Christian faith and ethics. The curriculum consists of core advanced business coursework, including:
- Faith and Spirituality in Business
- Leading in Organizations
- Foundations of Marketing
- Conceptual Foundations of Economics
- Conceptual Foundations of Finance
- International Business
- Business Analytics: Analytic Thinking and Decisions
Students will engage in researched-focused studies that accompany a dissertation. And they will also have a supervised practicum teaching in an academic setting or consulting in a corporate environment. In addition, they choose an accounting, management, or marketing concentration for in-depth study. The program follows a cohort model for all core classes. A minimum of 56 credits are required for graduation. And it takes around four years, including the dissertation.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Tuition: $14,158
Score: 95.75
#19. ATHABASCA UNIVERSITY
Online DBA Program
Athabasca University is an Open University committed to removing barriers to higher education. Athabasca was founded in 1970 and specializes in distance education. The school is headquartered in Athabasca, Alberta. And it is the first Canadian post-secondary institution to be regionally accredited by a US accrediting body. Athabasca enrolls over 40,700 students.
The school offers an online Doctorate in Business Administration degree program. It was created to provide easier access to doctoral studies in the discipline. It is for motivated business professionals already working in the field. The online DBA emphasizes research in practical business and management issues. And students pursue applied research to build knowledge of management practices. It is designed for anyone interested in contributing to positive change in their industry.
This program is a research-focused doctoral degree. As a result, it prepares graduates for the highest level of business or academic careers. A minimum of 54 credits are required to complete the program.
Athabasca students can complete the DBA program in four to five years. However, they may have up to seven years to finish. Some of the resources available to online students include:
- Accessibility Services
- Program and Course Advising
- Financial Aid and Awards
- Tutoring and Learning Support
- Exam Services Support
- Mental Health and Wellness
- Technical Support
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Tuition: $14,478
Online DBA Score: 95.50
#20. JOHNSON & WALES UNIVERSITY
Online DBA Program
Johnson & Wales University is a private, nonprofit college enrolling over 15,000 students. Founded in 1914, the school offers a range of programs across four campus locations. Disciplines include arts and sciences, education, business, healthcare, design, and more. Johnson & Wales is somewhat unique in its educational approach. The school integrates the arts and sciences with business and industry. And they provide career-ready education for those entering the workforce.
The online Doctor of Business Administration program at Johnson and Wales takes about three years to complete. It is designed to prepare business professionals for high-level roles. Students learn to confront the challenges of business through a lens of ethical decision-making. And they focus on critical thought and creativity, guiding them to practical solutions. In addition, students utilize best practice knowledge. This ultimately teaches them business practices with an eye for sustainability and growth. The 54-credit program is available entirely online and follows a cohort model. Students can expect courses like:
- Organizational Strategy and Design
- Research Design
- Organizational Behavior
- Innovation and Change
- Contemporary Leadership Issues
- Business Analytics and Intelligence
- Advanced Strategies in Organization Development
- Problems and Methods in Marketing Management
- Executive Decision-Making
- Organizational Interventions – Disruption and Change
- Leading and Managing Large-Scale Transformation
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Tuition: $14,706
Online DBA Score: 95.25
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#21. SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY
Online DBA Program
Saint Leo University is a Roman Catholic liberal arts college in Saint Leo, Florida. It was founded in 1889 by a group of Benedictine monks. And it is the oldest Catholic college in Florida. The university only enrolls about 3,000 students at its main campus. However, worldwide, there are around 16,0000 students. Many of those students are in the military. The university operates dozens of military base education centers. And they have 17 continuing education centers in 7 states. Plus, they run a global online campus.
The online Doctor of Business Administration program is offered through the Tapia School of Business. Tapia is considered one of the top business schools in the country. This is an advanced degree program geared toward training aspiring leaders. It focuses on critical thinking, research, and theory to advance the field of business. The program prepares graduates for teaching, academic administration, or business consulting careers. It is outcomes-driven and highly flexible. This ensures that the program can accommodate the needs of highly mobile business professionals. The courses are mainly online. However, there are some required campus visits. A minimum of 57 credits are needed for the completion of the degree. Some of the courses include:
- Doctoral Success Lab: Resources, Processes, and Support
- A History of Applied Management Theory
- Global Leadership and Ethics
- Organizational Behavior and Social Responsibility
- Global Perspectives in Human Resource
- Analytics For Decision Making
- Strategic Management in Global Organizations
- Management Learning Seminar
- Management Teaching Practicum
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $15,218
Online DBA Score: 95.00
#22. FRANKLIN UNIVERSITY
Online Doctor of Business Administration
Franklin University is one of the largest private universities in Ohio. The school has been in operation for more than 115 years. Franklin is dedicated to its mission of making a college degree possible for all people. The school thrives on providing high-quality education “for the real world” to working adults.
The online Doctor of Business Administration program at Franklin is an applied doctorate. This practical degree involves both subject mastery and field application. Students will research and communicate complex issues to solve organization-wide issues. Students in this program refine their technical, research, leadership, and communication skills. The program consists of 58 credits. This includes a 16-credit research core, 17 major credits, and 12 credits of elective coursework. Plus, ten credits of dissertation work are required. All coursework for this program is completed online. Some of the courses may include:
- Development of Management Theory Practice
- Organizational Behavior, Culture & Effectiveness
- Organizational Leadership
- Organizational Systems Perspective Theory & Application
- Strategic Thinking, Decision-Making, and Innovation
- Organizational Performance Analysis
- Ethics & Social Responsibility
- Change Management & Organizational Development
- Human Resources
In addition to the regular DBA coursework, students can choose one of nine focus areas. These include:
- Accounting Focus
- Education Focus
- Health Informatics Focus
- Healthcare Management Focus
- Human Resource Management Focus
- Instructional Design Leadership Focus
- Methodology Focus
- Information Technology Focus
- Marketing Focus
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: North Central Association of Schools and Colleges
Tuition: $16,080
Online DBA Score: 94.75
#23. CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY
Online Doctor of Business Administration
Founded in 1878, Creighton University is a small Jesuit university located in Omaha, Nebraska. With just over 7,000 students, this school provides close personal attention to its students. Class sizes are small, and there is a low student-to-faculty ratio. This provides a deep and customizable educational experience. Creighton comprises nine colleges and schools and offers a variety of online programs.
Creighton University has an online Doctor of Business Administration degree program. It is designed for students seeking tenure track positions at colleges and universities. This is a research-based doctoral-level degree. But as a DBA, it features a more applied and professional focus. Those seeking an analytical, research approach to business may also benefit from this degree. Students learn about innovative teaching methods. And they will be prepared to perform at the highest level of business instruction.
The three-year, cohort-styled DBA online is designed for students who require a lot of flexibility. You can continue to work full-time while pursuing this degree. Most coursework is delivered entirely online. However, students will be required to attend eight one-week intensive residencies. These take place during the program’s first two years. Some of the courses in this business administration program include:
- Applied Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management Research
- Marketing Research
- Applied Economics Research
- Applied Strategy Research
- Applied Information Systems Research
- Survey of Business Pedagogy
- General Linearized Models
- Applied Research Design and Methods
- Design and Method Replication
- Ignatian History, Values, and Charisms
- Ignatian Pedagogy
- Catholic Social Thought
- Business Ethics
- Ethics & Research Business Strategy
- Advanced Statistics & Mathematical Modeling
- Global Financial Markets & Institutions
- Econometric Methods
- Econometric Analysis of Panel Data
- Advanced Corporate Finance
- Advanced Financial Risk Management
- Advanced Research in Corporate Finance
- Advanced Asset Pricing
- Research Methods & Dissertation Design
- Human Resources
- Global Supply Chain Management
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $17,190
Online DBA Score: 94.50
#24. FELICIAN UNIVERSITY
DBA Online
Felician University is a private Roman Catholic college in New Jersey. It was founded as a Normal School for teacher preparation in 1923 by the Felician Sisters. Felician University offers a wide range of degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Online degree programs are a recent addition to the school’s offerings. Felician College enrolls over 2,100 students.
Felician offers a great online Doctor of Business Administration program. It is designed to enhance business theory and practice. And it prepares students to take on higher positions within their careers or transition into academia. The business administration program format is online with a brief residency requirement. And is self-paced, so students can take as little or as much time as needed to complete assignments. As a result, there are no semester deadlines. However, a minimum of 61 credits are required to complete the business administration program. Some of the courses include:
- Historical Perspectives in Management
- Contemporary Management Theory
- Historical Perspectives in Marketing
- Contemporary Marketing Theory
- Historical Perspectives of Decision Theory
- Online Communication of Business Knowledge
- Field Demonstration in Business
- Independent Study in Business
Students in this program receive personalized mentorship. And they can take advantage of the school’s innovation lab and other resources. A unique aspect of this program is that students conduct pioneering research of their choice.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $19,440
Online DBA Score: 94.25
#25. GOLDEN GATE UNIVERSITY
Online Doctor of Business Administration Program
Golden Gate University is a nonprofit university established in 1901. The school provides education in Accounting, Law, Business, and related areas. Located in San Francisco, the university has additional teaching sites in Seattle and Silicon Valley. In addition to evening and weekend classes, most courses and degrees are offered entirely online. GGU is California’s fourth oldest private university. The school enrolls over 5,000 students.
Golden Gate University has an online Doctor of Business Administration program. It is designed to equip business leaders to advance as innovators in the field. Graduates will gain the skills and knowledge to evaluate, design, and execute business. This online DBA emphasizes the application of business theory to the solution of real business problems. Graduates will have a solid foundation to move into the highest-level careers in business. Students in this business administration program will take foundational courses in research. In addition, they will need to choose from one of six specializations, including:
- Finance
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- Leadership
- Business Analytics
- Marketing
- General
Students will be required to complete an original dissertation. It must contribute new knowledge to the issues of their particular field. Students can pursue this accredited program part-time. And it is entirely online through the school’s eLearning platform. A minimum of 60 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Tuition: $19,620
Online DBA Score: 94.00
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#26. FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Online Doctor of Business Administration
Florida Institute of Technology is a private doctoral-research university. The school is well-known for its science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programs. FIU is Located in Melbourne, Florida, and enrolls over 5,000 students. This school is dedicated to high-quality education for a culturally diverse student population. In addition, there’s a strong focus at Florida Tech on workforce preparation and service in local communities.
The school offers an excellent Doctor of Business Administration online program. This program prepares students with advanced skills and knowledge for leading organizations. It is a professional degree that requires students to have at least five years of management experience. Yet, it equips them with higher leadership skills in a range of business settings. Students in the online DBA program apply theory plus advanced research skills to write an original dissertation. A minimum of 42 credits are required for completion of the degree. The program follows a cohort model. Students meet together on campus once per semester. However, the rest of the coursework is all done online. Some of the coursework for this business administration program includes:
- Issues in Strategic Management
- Organizational Behavior, Ethics, and Leadership in Business Management
- Advanced Study of Human Resources in Modern Business Enterprises
- Advanced Marketing Management
- Advanced Study in International Business
- Introduction to Doctoral Writing and Business Research Methods
- Advanced Study in Financial Business Analysis
The school claims this DBA program is ideal for fearless, relentless learners who strive for more than success. This three-year program is for those who already have an MBA or related master’s degree. Admission is highly contemplative and is limited to 15 to 20 students per class.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $22,338
Online DBA Score: 93.75
#27. ROLLINS COLLEGE
Online Executive Doctorate in Business Administration
Rollins College is a private nonprofit college in Orlando, Florida. Rollins was founded in 1885 and was the first college in the state. The school enrolls over 3,100 students. And it aspires to educate them for engaged citizenship and meaningful lives of service and career success.
Rollins offers a hybrid Executive Doctorate in Business Administration program. This is a blended online program with intensive residencies. The professional doctoral program is designed for business executives. And it is for those with a master’s degree in business or a related graduate-level degree. Students work closely with a faculty advisor who helps them design a focus area for their studies.
For the first two years, DBA students must meet once a month on the weekend (Friday and Saturday). There are no formal classes for the summer terms. And students spend this time on a faculty-guided research project. The last year culminates in a full year of dissertation research and writing that focuses on the student’s chosen business interests. In between on-site classes, students participate through an online education platform. An estimated 61 credits are required for completion of the program.
The online DBA program is the first AACSB-accredited degree of its kind in Florida. And it aims to train thought leaders and contribute to organizational success at a high level. It is offered through the Crummer Graduate School of Business, one of the top business schools in the country. No GMAT is required. Additionally, there are plenty of financial aid options for this program. These include scholarships, loans, and funding for veterans.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $26,190
Online DBA Score: 93.50
#28. KEISER UNIVERSITY
Online DBA
Keiser University is a non-profit school in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. It was founded as a career college focused on professional programs in business and health care. The school offers small class sizes and a hands-on learning environment. Additionally, The online format is flexible. Students take one class at a time before moving on to the next.
Keiser offers an online Doctor of Business Administration degree program. It is ACBSP-accredited. This program empowers students to make significant contributions to business and education. And this is accomplished through advanced coursework and original research. Students of the online DBA select from three specializations. These include Marketing, Global Management, and Global Business. Graduates will be prepared for high-level careers in business, government, or academia. This is a terminal degree that focuses on advanced skills in:
- Decision-making
- Leadership Lifelong Learning
- Ethics
- Effective Communication
- Sustainability
- Global Business Management
This program requires 60 credits for completion. It takes 24 to 42 months to complete. Students can transfer up to 18 credits toward the program. Keiser University Graduate School allows students to take classes 100 percent online. This ensures that working adults can achieve a solid work/life balance.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $29,632
Online DBA Score: 93.25
#29. UNIVERSITY OF DALLAS
Online DBA Program
The University of Dallas is a private Catholic institution in Irving, Texas. UD offers a wide range of degree and certificate options at every level of study. As a result, students from all walks of life are drawn to UD from across the nation and worldwide. The University of Dallas enrolls over 2,500 students globally.
The school offers an online Doctor of Business Administration program. It is a research-based DBA program that equips graduates to use applied research in business scenarios. Likewise, it also prepares them to enter careers in education. The program is designed for experienced business professionals. And it helps them to expand their skills in business innovation and administrative leadership. It requires 61 credits for completion. Some of the courses include:
- Becoming an Applied Researcher
- Strategic Perspectives
- The Engagement Factor
- Leadership and Followership
- Agile Organizations
- The Sustainable Enterprise
- Applied Marketing Research
- Emerging Technologies
- The Craft of Research and Writing
- Designing Applied Research
- Qualitative Methods for Diagnosis and Assessment
- Applied Statistical Analysis
Students in this program learn practical solutions to the problems faced within global business today. The DBA blends online learning with occasional in-class instruction. Online students are required to attend monthly weekend sessions on campus in Irving, Texas. Therefore, students should have a means of commuting to and from campus.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $33,750
Online DBA Score: 93.00
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#30. SACRED HEART UNIVERSITY
Online DBA Program
Sacred Heart University is a Roman Catholic college in Fairfield, Connecticut. The school was founded in 1963 and is now the second-largest Catholic university in New England. It is also known as the first Catholic University in the US to be led and staffed entirely by lay people. SHU enrolls over 6,000 and offers more than 80 programs on campus and online.
The online Doctor of Business Administration in Finance at Sacred Heart is an applied research program. It is designed to provide financial executives with the knowledge and skills to bring their careers to the highest level. The DBA online follows a low-residency cohort model. Students engage with their peers in experiential learning in a blended “executive program” style.
As a hybrid program, courses are offered face-to-face and online. In addition, students will attend weekend residencies during the program’s first two years. The program’s final year is dedicated to preparing an original dissertation. Weekend residencies are administered during five Friday/Saturdays each trimester. A minimum of 63 credits are required to graduate. Some of the courses in this business administration program include:
- Ethics & Research Business Strategy
- Advanced Statistics & Mathematical Modeling
- Global Financial Markets & Institutions
- Econometric Methods
- Econometric Analysis of Panel Data
- Advanced Corporate Finance
- Advanced Financial Risk Management
- Advanced Research in Corporate Finance
- Advanced Asset Pricing
- Research Methods & Dissertation Design
- Human Resources
- Global Supply Chain Management
SHU’s Jack Welch College of Business & Technology is accredited by AACSB International. It is one of fewer than five percent of elite business schools worldwide that earn this designation. Although Sacred Heart is more expensive than the others on our list, it does offer one of the best DBA programs online.
Doctor of Business Administration Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Tuition: $34,509
Online DBA Score: 92.75
See also: ONLINE PHD FINANCE PROGRAMS
This concludes the Students Before Profits award for Online Doctor of Business Administration Programs.
NPCO Staff
