Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration: Your Path to Leadership and Innovation

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Are you ready to tackle the complex challenges of the modern global economy and elevate your career to the highest levels of leadership? A Doctor Of Philosophy In Business Administration (PhD-BA) from National University offers a rigorous, research-focused pathway to achieve your professional aspirations. Designed for ambitious individuals seeking to become scholar-practitioners, this 100% online program empowers you to develop advanced research skills and contribute meaningfully to the field of business administration.

This doctoral degree program is meticulously crafted to equip you with the strategic thinking and analytical prowess necessary for senior leadership roles in both the private and public sectors. As a PhD candidate, you will embark on a journey of intellectual discovery, culminating in a dissertation that explores a subject deeply rooted in your expertise and professional experience. National University’s online PhD in Business Administration is not just an academic pursuit; it’s a transformative experience designed to refine your knowledge, expose you to cutting-edge technologies, and provide invaluable mentorship from experienced faculty.

Elevate Your Impact on the Global Business Landscape

The PhD-BA program at National University is fundamentally research-based, aiming to cultivate leaders who can drive innovation and strategic change across business, administration, and technology management. By enhancing your knowledge base and refining critical competencies, this program prepares you to confidently assume leadership roles and address the most pressing issues facing today’s organizations.

To ensure your doctoral studies align perfectly with your career goals, NU offers ten specialized areas within the online PhD-BA program:

• Advanced Accounting: Delve into the complexities of financial reporting, auditing, and forensic accounting.
• Financial Management: Master the principles of investment strategy, financial analysis, and risk management in a global context.
• Global Business Management: Develop expertise in international business strategy, cross-cultural management, and global market entry.
• Health Services Specialization: Focus on the unique challenges and opportunities within the healthcare industry, including healthcare policy and administration.
• Homeland Security: Leadership & Policy (HS): Explore critical aspects of security management, emergency preparedness, and policy development in the homeland security sector.
• Industrial/Organizational Psychology: Apply psychological principles to enhance workplace productivity, employee well-being, and organizational effectiveness.
• Information Technology: Lead technological innovation and strategic IT management within organizations in the digital age.
• Organizational Leadership: Cultivate advanced leadership skills and strategies for navigating complex organizational dynamics and driving change.
• Project Management: Become an expert in project planning, execution, and control, mastering the tools and techniques for successful project outcomes.
• Strategic Marketing: Develop advanced marketing strategies, understand consumer behavior, and lead in the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing.

Program Structure and Coursework

The Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration program at National University is structured to provide a comprehensive and rigorous learning experience.

• Total Credit Hours: 60
• Number of Courses: 20
• Estimated Completion Time: 40 Months

The program’s 60 credit hours are divided into foundational courses, specialization courses, research and statistical training, and dissertation work. Foundational courses are delivered in 8-week blocks, while dissertation courses extend over a minimum of 12 weeks to allow for in-depth research and writing.

The curriculum requires a minimum of 60 credits, with the possibility of additional credits to fully support dissertation research. Any additional coursework will be carefully aligned with the university’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) and Maximum Time to Completion policies to ensure student success.

Foundational courses provide a bedrock of knowledge and are distinct from specialization and elective courses. Students pursuing a specialization must complete at least 15 credit hours in their chosen area at NU (excluding foundational courses). Alternatively, students may opt for a General Business specialization by selecting 15 credit hours of relevant cross-disciplinary courses. All electives must be directly relevant to the student’s degree objectives.

The PhD-BA program mandates a minimum of five core courses, five specialization courses, two statistics courses, five research-focused courses, and one doctoral elective. Upon completing these coursework requirements, students advance to the dissertation phase, which includes a minimum of four dissertation research courses.

The foundational courses must be taken first and in a prescribed sequence. For students on the evaluation track, SKS-7001 is taken after BUS-7101 and before BUS-7110. Specialization, research, and doctoral elective courses are also sequenced to build progressively upon prior learning.

Course Sequence Breakdown (20 Courses Total):

• Foundational Courses (5 Courses):

  • BUS-7101: Foundations for Doctoral Study in Business Administration (3 Credits): This introductory course sets the stage for your doctoral journey. You will explore the scholar-practitioner model, degree requirements, and develop a personalized academic and research plan. It emphasizes the shift from knowledge consumption to knowledge creation within the context of contemporary business trends.
  • BUS-7105: Core Business Proficiencies (3 Credits): This course validates your graduate-level competency across twelve essential business areas, including marketing, finance, accounting, management, business law, economics, ethics, global business, information systems, quantitative methods, leadership, and business applications. You will apply your knowledge through a comprehensive case study.
  • BUS-7110: The Business Environment (3 Credits): Examine the internal and external factors shaping the business landscape. Topics include business ethics, international business, marketing, management, and organizational behavior theories, providing a holistic understanding of the business ecosystem.
  • BUS-7115: Economics, Accounting, and Finance for Business Leaders (3 Credits): Gain fluency in the interconnected theories of economics, accounting, and finance. This course focuses on how financial professionals, economists, and accountants contribute to business success through strategic financial management and market analysis.
  • BUS-7120: Strategic Planning and Decision Making (3 Credits): Master the theories and practices of strategic planning. You will learn to differentiate between strategic thinking and planning, select appropriate strategies, and design effective strategic plans by analyzing customer needs and competitive landscapes.

• Specialization Courses (5 Courses): Tailored to your chosen specialization area (e.g., Project Management, Organizational Leadership, etc.).

• Doctoral Level Elective (1 Course): Allows for further exploration of a relevant topic of your choice.

• Research Courses (7 Courses):

  • RES-7201: Scholarly Literature and Academic Writing (3 Credits): Develop essential skills in conducting literature reviews and academic writing, focusing on effective literature searches, critical analysis, and synthesis of research. This course prepares you for dissertation research by identifying potential areas of inquiry.
  • QNT-7301: Univariate Inferential Statistics (3 Credits): Cultivate a statistical mindset and master univariate inferential statistics. Build confidence in performing and interpreting statistical tests, selecting appropriate tests based on quantitative research questions, and analyzing statistical outputs.
  • QNT-7305: Multivariate Inferential Statistics (3 Credits): Learn advanced statistical principles applicable to organizational research. Gain an overview of multivariate data analysis, inferential analysis, and use statistical software to perform complex computations. Develop independent scholarly skills in understanding and presenting sophisticated statistical concepts.
  • RES-7210: Quantitative Research Design and Analysis (3 Credits): Acquire skills in designing quantitative research studies, analyzing collected data, and interpreting results. Explore research designs and statistical techniques relevant to your dissertation research.
  • RES-7215: Qualitative and Mixed Methods Research Design (3 Credits): Examine qualitative research methodologies, including grounded theory, narrative analysis, ethnography, mixed methods, and case studies. Explore designs and methodologies applicable to your research interests.
  • RES-7301: Pre-Candidacy Prospectus (3 Credits): Demonstrate mastery of your discipline and research design abilities by synthesizing empirical research. Successful completion of the Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is required before advancing to dissertation coursework.
  • RES-7310: Dissertation Chapter 1 (3 Credits): Begin your dissertation by completing Chapter 1, including a literature review, problem statement, research purpose and questions, methodology, and study significance. Committee approval of Chapter 1 is required to pass the course.
  • RES-7315: Dissertation Proposal (Chapters 1-3) (3 Credits): Complete and gain committee approval for Chapters 1-3 of your dissertation proposal, encompassing the literature review (Chapter 2) and methodology (Chapter 3). Successful proposal defense is required to pass the course.
  • RES-7320: Dissertation Research (IRB, Data Collection) (3 Credits): Prepare and submit your IRB application, collect data, and submit a study closure form. Progress in data collection is expected during this course.
  • RES-7325: Dissertation Research and Defense (Chapters 4-5) (3 Credits): Complete Chapters 4 and 5 of your dissertation, including data analysis, results, and findings. Successfully defend your dissertation orally and submit the final manuscript for committee approval to graduate.

Specializations in Detail

National University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration offers a diverse array of specializations, allowing you to focus your doctoral studies on your specific area of interest and career aspirations. Each specialization comprises 15 credit hours of focused coursework, delivered in 8-week courses, and is designed to provide in-depth knowledge and skills within that domain.

• Project Management Specialization: This specialization focuses on enhancing project performance and organizational effectiveness through the study of project management principles, tools, and techniques. You will learn to manage project costs, budgets, risks, negotiations, and performance reporting, essential for success in any enterprise. The curriculum emphasizes leadership and team building within project environments, strategies for managing multiple projects, and earned value project management concepts. Learn More

• Organizational Leadership Specialization: This specialization combines business and education theory to enhance your understanding and practice of organizational leadership. It is ideal for professionals in management, human resources, and related fields seeking leadership roles in corporate, government, non-profit, or educational organizations, or consulting careers. Learn More

• Industrial/Organizational Psychology Specialization: Explore the intersection of psychology and business, applying industrial and organizational psychology principles to understand human behavior in the workplace. This interdisciplinary specialization combines courses from the Schools of Business and Psychology to develop expertise in theory, research, and applications related to human behavior in organizations and human resource management. Learn More

• Homeland Security: Leadership and Policy Specialization: Designed for senior leaders in public administration, law enforcement, and emergency services, this specialization prepares you for executive leadership in homeland security. The focus is on advanced research, exploring concepts in terrorism, strategy, intelligence, emergency management, and critical infrastructure security. Learn More

• Health Services Specialization: This specialization develops critical perspectives and skills for managing issues within the health services industry. You will learn to identify and resolve administrative challenges, analyze delivery systems, and understand the constraints and opportunities for intervention and change in healthcare. The curriculum covers healthcare delivery systems, financial management, human resources, quality management, and health law and ethics. Learn More

• Financial Management Specialization: Focus on advanced financial analysis and strategic planning for resource allocation and ROI optimization. You will analyze financial and non-financial organizations across sectors, with a focus on international finance, quality management in finance, and accounting principles for diverse organizational types. Learn More

• Advanced Accounting Specialization: This specialization provides an in-depth understanding of accounting principles and research-based accounting knowledge. You will explore the relationships between business activities, economic outcomes, and performance analysis, preparing you for advanced roles in financial analysis, management accounting, and forensic accounting in various sectors, including non-profit and higher education. Learn More

• Global Business Management Specialization: Gain essential knowledge for understanding and managing global organizations. Ideal for individuals seeking global management roles in industry, education, government, or consulting, this specialization provides comprehensive training in global leadership, economics, finance, marketing, and organizational effectiveness, with a focus on global strategic planning and decision-making. Learn More

• Information Technology Specialization: This specialization prepares leaders to leverage technology for organizational advancement. You will learn to champion innovation and manage technological change effectively, understanding how to strategically implement new technologies and ideas to drive progress. Learn More

• Strategic Marketing Specialization: This specialization offers a next-generation approach to strategic marketing, exceeding traditional marketing management and research methodologies. You will receive benchmark training in global change leadership, marketing science, and marketing economics, focusing on global product strategy and advanced digital marketing across the product lifecycle. The specialization emphasizes ethical and legal approaches to contemporary and emergent marketing practices, preparing you to lead the future of marketing. Learn More

Career Paths with a PhD in Business Administration

A Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration opens doors to a wide array of high-level career opportunities. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in academia, research institutions, consulting firms, and senior management positions across diverse industries.

Data Source: Career outcome data is provided by Lightcast, a leading labor market analytics firm. Lightcast data is derived from real-time job postings, public datasets, and government sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). While data is robust and reflects general market trends, individual outcomes may vary. For detailed methodology, refer to Lightcast’s Data Overview.

Here are some potential career paths you can pursue with a PhD-BA:

• Chief Executives

  • Median Salary (USA): $174,293 annually (+262% above US average)
  • Job Openings (USA): 22,915 past year
  • Role Overview: Chief Executives formulate policies and provide overall direction for organizations, public or private. They plan, direct, and coordinate operational activities with the support of executive teams.
  • Salary Range: $62,290 (Low) – $174,293 (Medium) – $449,076 (High)
  • Top Desired Skills: Finance, Project Management, Marketing, Accounting, Auditing, Public Administration, Financial Management
  • Top Hiring Companies: Dollar General, Jack’s Family Restaurants, Chevron, Sonic Drive-In, Apple, 24 Hour Fitness, United States Department of Veterans Affairs

• General and Operations Managers

  • Median Salary (USA): $100,934 annually (+110% above US average)
  • Job Openings (USA): 373,566 past year
  • Role Overview: General and Operations Managers oversee the operations of organizations, managing multiple departments or locations. Responsibilities include policy formulation, daily operations management, and resource planning.
  • Salary Range: $46,104 (Low) – $100,934 (Medium) – $231,855 (High)
  • Top Desired Skills: Operations Management, Marketing, Merchandising, Inventory Management, Profit & Loss (P&L) Management, Project Management, Finance
  • Top Hiring Companies: AutoZone, CVS Health, Buckle, Menards, Walmart, Enterprise Mobility, Enterprise Rent-A-Car

• Sales Managers

  • Median Salary (USA): $134,000 annually (+178% above US average)
  • Job Openings (USA): 55,729 past year
  • Role Overview: Sales Managers direct the distribution of products or services, establish sales territories and goals, implement training programs, analyze sales statistics, and monitor customer preferences.
  • Salary Range: $62,965 (Low) – $134,000 (Medium) – $265,837 (High)
  • Top Desired Skills: Marketing, Sales Management, Selling Techniques, Business Development, Sales Prospecting, Customer Relationship Management, Sales Strategy
  • Top Hiring Companies: AutoZone, Marriott International, Hilton, US Foods Holding, Wolters Kluwer, Carter’s, Amazon

• Administrative Services Managers

  • Median Salary (USA): $106,282 annually (+121% above US average)
  • Job Openings (USA): 24,933 past year
  • Role Overview: Administrative Services Managers plan, direct, and coordinate support services within organizations, such as records management, office support, and mail distribution.
  • Salary Range: $62,305 (Low) – $106,282 (Medium) – $188,965 (High)
  • Top Desired Skills: Office Management, Accounting, Billing, Accounts Receivable, Finance, Accounts Payable, Administrative Support
  • Top Hiring Companies: CBRE, Brookdale Senior Living, Genesis HealthCare, Ryder, Morgan Stanley, Life Care Centers of America, United Surgical Partners International

• Facilities Managers

  • Median Salary (USA): $102,131 annually (+112% above US average)
  • Job Openings (USA): 13,301 past year
  • Role Overview: Facilities Managers coordinate the operations and functionalities of buildings and grounds, including maintenance and infrastructure management.
  • Salary Range: $60,664 (Low) – $102,131 (Medium) – $168,904 (High)
  • Top Desired Skills: Facility Management, HVAC, Construction, Project Management, Plumbing, Facility Repair And Maintenance, Renovation
  • Top Hiring Companies: CBRE, JLL, Cushman & Wakefield, Life Time, Sodexo, DaVita, Compass Group

• Industrial Production Managers

  • Median Salary (USA): $115,620 annually (+140% above US average)
  • Job Openings (USA): 20,323 past year
  • Role Overview: Industrial Production Managers plan, direct, and coordinate manufacturing activities to meet cost, quality, and quantity specifications.
  • Salary Range: $70,661 (Low) – $115,620 (Medium) – $191,892 (High)
  • Top Desired Skills: Continuous Improvement Process, Lean Manufacturing, Project Management, Production Management, Process Improvement, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), Manufacturing Processes
  • Top Hiring Companies: Accenture, Entergy, International Paper, Amazon, Pizza Hut, Claire’s, GE Aerospace

• Transportation and Storage Managers

  • Median Salary (USA): $97,938 annually (+103% above US average)
  • Job Openings (USA): 22,627 past year
  • Role Overview: Transportation and Storage Managers coordinate transportation, storage, and distribution activities in compliance with regulations and organizational policies, often including logistics management.
  • Salary Range: $57,703 (Low) – $97,938 (Medium) – $175,184 (High)
  • Top Desired Skills: Warehousing, Forklift Truck, Inventory Management, Warehouse Operations, Supply Chain, Project Management, Continuous Improvement Process
  • Top Hiring Companies: Lowe’s, Amazon, Restaurant Depot, Target, US Foods Holding, Menards, Ryder

• Compensation and Benefits Managers

  • Median Salary (USA): $136,386 annually (+183% above US average)
  • Job Openings (USA): 1,491 past year
  • Role Overview: Compensation and Benefits Managers plan, direct, and coordinate compensation and benefits programs within an organization.
  • Salary Range: $76,565 (Low) – $136,386 (Medium) – $229,965 (High)
  • Top Desired Skills: Finance, Project Management, Auditing, Marketing, Accounting, Human Resources Information System (HRIS), Billing
  • Top Hiring Companies: Amazon, Johnson & Johnson, Elevance Health, Sanofi, Tiktok, Hub International, Hobby Lobby Stores

• Human Resources Managers

  • Median Salary (USA): $135,074 annually (+181% above US average)
  • Job Openings (USA): 21,271 past year
  • Role Overview: Human Resources Managers plan, direct, and coordinate human resources activities and staff within an organization.
  • Salary Range: $79,829 (Low) – $135,074 (Medium) – $260,541 (High)
  • Top Desired Skills: Employee Relations, Performance Management, Human Resources Information System (HRIS), Talent Management, Project Management, Human Resource Management, Employee Engagement
  • Top Hiring Companies: Amazon, Lumen Technologies, Deloitte, Marriott International, GAF Materials Corporation, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company

• Cost Estimators

  • Median Salary (USA): $74,595 annually (+55% above US average)
  • Job Openings (USA): 22,413 past year
  • Role Overview: Cost Estimators prepare cost estimates for products, services, or construction projects to aid in pricing and bidding decisions.
  • Salary Range: $44,156 (Low) – $74,595 (Medium) – $126,641 (High)
  • Top Desired Skills: Construction, Project Management, Subcontracting, Construction Management, Construction Estimating, Cost Estimation, Quantity Take-Offs
  • Top Hiring Companies: Black & Veatch, Gerber Collision & Glass, Crash Champions, CDM Smith, Boyd Group Services, Turner & Townsend, Kiewit Corporation

• Human Resources Specialists

  • Median Salary (USA): $67,652 annually (+40% above US average)
  • Job Openings (USA): 103,328 past year
  • Role Overview: Human Resources Specialists recruit, screen, interview, and place employees within organizations, performing various HR-related tasks.
  • Salary Range: $42,479 (Low) – $67,652 (Medium) – $124,185 (High)
  • Top Desired Skills: Human Resources Information System (HRIS), Applicant Tracking Systems, Employee Relations, Auditing, Recruitment Strategies, Talent Acquisition, Talent Management
  • Top Hiring Companies: Deloitte, Target, Lumen Technologies, Ryder, General Motors, Amazon, US Xpress

• Logisticians

  • Median Salary (USA): $79,109 annually (+64% above US average)
  • Job Openings (USA): 29,717 past year
  • Role Overview: Logisticians analyze and coordinate an organization’s logistical functions, managing the lifecycle of products from acquisition to disposal.
  • Salary Range: $47,588 (Low) – $79,109 (Medium) – $129,345 (High)
  • Top Desired Skills: Supply Chain, Logistics, Purchasing, Warehousing, Inventory Management, Procurement, Supply Chain Management
  • Top Hiring Companies: Fastenal, Lowe’s, Amazon, Accenture, Northrop Grumman, Walmart, Lockheed Martin

• Project Management Specialists

  • Median Salary (USA): $98,263 annually (+104% above US average)
  • Job Openings (USA): 94,949 past year
  • Role Overview: Project Management Specialists coordinate project schedules, budgets, staffing, and procurement, often leading technical staff and serving as client contacts.
  • Salary Range: $56,897 (Low) – $98,263 (Medium) – $164,988 (High)
  • Top Desired Skills: Project Management, Construction, Subcontracting, Construction Management, Project Schedules, Project Planning, Change Orders
  • Top Hiring Companies: Lumen Technologies, CBRE, Deloitte, CDM Smith, Black & Veatch, Accenture, GovCIO

• Management Analysts

  • Median Salary (USA): $99,189 annually (+106% above US average)
  • Job Openings (USA): 115,428 past year
  • Role Overview: Management Analysts conduct organizational studies, design systems and procedures, and prepare manuals to improve organizational efficiency and effectiveness, including program and management consulting roles.
  • Salary Range: $50,708 (Low) – $99,189 (Medium) – $224,297 (High)
  • Top Desired Skills: Project Management, Data Analysis, Business Process, Business Requirements, Finance, SQL (Programming Language), Process Improvement
  • Top Hiring Companies: Wells Fargo, Elevance Health, Accenture, Deloitte, Lincoln Financial Group, Prime Therapeutics, USAA

Program Snapshot

Key Program Highlights:

• 16 Specializations: Choose from a wide array of professionally relevant specializations.*
• Credit Hours: At least 60 Credit Hours
• Courses: 20 Courses
• Recommended Completion: 38 Months
• Start Dates: Every Monday
• Classroom Size: One (Online, Personalized Learning)

*Note: While the PhD-BA program is ACBSP accredited, specific specializations like Applied Computer Science, Computer and Information Security, Healthcare Administration, Industrial Organizational Psychology, Management of Engineering and Technology, and Management Information Systems are not individually accredited by ACBSP.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon graduation with a Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration from National University, you will be able to:

• Develop Business Knowledge: Synthesize current business theories to create advanced business knowledge.
• Defend Business Theories: Articulate and defend complex business theories, applications, and perspectives to diverse audiences effectively.
• Evaluate Business Practices: Critically evaluate business practices for their positive societal impact and ethical implications.
• Analyze Global Business Environment: Assess the intricate relationship between global environmental factors and strategic business decisions.
• Formulate Research-Based Solutions: Develop and propose innovative solutions to complex problems identified through rigorous business research.

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Admission Information

National University welcomes transfer students and strives to make the admission process straightforward.

Learn more about transferring to NU.

Our dedicated admissions team is available year-round to guide you through every step, ensuring you find the right program to meet your career objectives. We have streamlined the application process to enable you to enroll and begin classes as soon as the next month, depending on your chosen program and location.

For comprehensive details on undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, as well as information for transfer students, please visit our admissions page. You can also explore tuition rates and financial aid options to make your doctoral education accessible.

Contact our admissions team at (855) 355-6288 or request information online to connect with an advisor. Ready to take the next step? APPLY NOW to start your application today.

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Scholarships and Financial Aid Opportunities

National University is committed to providing affordable and accessible higher education. We offer various scholarship opportunities and financial aid programs to help eligible students reduce the financial burden of pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration.

Explore Scholarship Options

Learn about the NU Key Grant – Discover if you qualify for needs-based scholarships and unlock your educational potential.

Accreditation Details

Alt text: WASC Senior College and University Commission accreditation logo, signifying National University’s commitment to academic excellence and quality education.
National University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), ensuring high standards in education.

ACBSP Accreditation Logo
*The Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). However, certain specializations (Applied Computer Science, Computer and Information Security, Healthcare Administration, Industrial Organizational Psychology, Management of Engineering and Technology, and Management Information Systems) within the PhD-BA program do not hold separate ACBSP accreditation. ACBSP is a leading specialized accreditation body that promotes excellence and continuous improvement in business education. Visit their website to learn more.

Why Choose National University for Your PhD-BA?

Alt text: Francisco R., a 2016 alumnus of National University, shares his positive experience, emphasizing the practical application of his business education to his career.

Founded in San Diego in 1971, National University is a veteran-founded nonprofit institution dedicated to providing accessible and achievable higher education for adult learners. With over 240,000 alumni worldwide, NU is a respected leader in online education, serving students across the U.S. and globally.

Francisco R., Class of 2016: “National University has significantly impacted my career. The immediate applicability of classroom learning to my business was invaluable.”

Unique Advantages of a National University Degree:

• Free Tutoring: Access personalized tutoring sessions at no cost to enhance your learning and academic performance.
• 100% Online Flexibility: Balance your doctoral studies with your professional and personal life through our flexible online learning platform.
• 24/7 Student Support: Receive assistance whenever you need it with our comprehensive round-the-clock support services.
• Military-Friendly Institution: We are deeply committed to serving the military community, offering specialized resources and support for veterans and their families. Military and Veteran Admissions.
• Extensive Mentoring Network: Benefit from individual career guidance, alumni networking, professional development, and tailored career support services.
• Seamless Transfer Process: NU simplifies degree completion for transfer students. Learn more about transferring to NU.

Accelerate Your Career Trajectory with NU:

At National University, you will join a supportive community of faculty, staff, students, and alumni dedicated to your success. Our extensive alumni network of 240,000 professionals provides invaluable connections to help you advance in your career.

Alt text: Happy graduates in caps and gowns celebrate their achievement, representing the successful culmination of their Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration journey at National University.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Career Opportunities are Available with a PhD in Business Administration?

A PhD-BA from National University prepares you for diverse career paths, including academia, research, and consulting. You could become a university professor, conduct research for organizations or government agencies, or work as a business consultant. A doctorate can also significantly enhance your earning potential and job security.

Is a PhD in Business Administration Right for Me?

The decision to pursue a PhD-BA depends on your individual career aspirations. If you aim for a career in university teaching or research, a PhD is highly beneficial. While it demands a significant commitment, the advanced knowledge and skills gained can greatly enhance your career journey. Carefully consider your goals and circumstances to determine if a PhD aligns with your path.

What is the Difference Between a DBA and a PhD in Business Administration?

The primary distinction lies in their focus. A PhD-BA is typically geared towards academic research and teaching, emphasizing theoretical contributions to the field. A DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) focuses on applying research to solve real-world business problems and is often more practitioner-oriented. PhD programs usually require a dissertation, while DBAs may involve a capstone project or applied research project.

What are the Admission Requirements for the PhD-BA Program?

Admission to the Doctorate programs at National University requires a master’s degree from an accredited institution. A maximum of 12 semester credit hours of relevant graduate coursework with a grade of “B” or better may be transferred from another accredited university.

What are the Graduation Requirements for the PhD-BA Degree?

• Minimum 48 credit hours of graduate instruction completed at NU.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 (B grade).
• Successful completion of the PhD-BA Pre-Candidacy Prospectus.
• University approval of Dissertation Manuscript and successful Oral Defense.
• Submission of the final dissertation manuscript (unbound original and electronic copy) to the University Registrar.
• Official master’s degree conferral documents from an accredited institution on file.
• Official transcripts for all accepted transfer credits on file.
• All financial obligations must be settled before diploma and transcript issuance.

What Types of Job Titles Can I Pursue with a PhD-BA?

Graduates may pursue roles such as:

• Administrative Services Managers/Directors
• Business Teacher/Professor
• Chief Executives
• General and Operations Managers/Directors
• Industrial Production Managers/Directors
• Loss Prevention Managers/Directors
• Market Research Analysts
• Operations Research Managers/Directors
• Postsecondary Management Analysts
• Regulatory Affairs Managers/Directors
• Sales Managers/Directors
• Security Managers/Directors
• Social and Community Service Managers/Directors
• Storage and Distribution Managers/Directors
• Supply Chain Managers/Directors
• Transportation Managers/Directors

*Note: Some positions may require additional experience, training, or licensing beyond degree completion. It is the student’s responsibility to verify and meet all licensure requirements for their intended state or region. Career data is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee specific employment or salary outcomes.

What is the Dissertation Process Like at National University?

National University provides robust faculty support throughout the dissertation process. The dissertation is a scholarly research document making an original contribution to business administration. The process includes topic selection, literature review, methodology planning, research execution, writing, and oral defense. Continuous enrollment in dissertation courses is required to ensure steady progress, and students are assessed for progress by their Dissertation Committee. Additional course enrollments may be necessary if more time is needed.

More About ACBSP Accreditation

Visit the ACBSP Website to learn more about the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and its commitment to enhancing business education through best practices and continuous improvement.

Program Disclosure

Please note that successful completion of a National University degree does not guarantee automatic licensure, employment, or certification. Professional organizations and businesses may have specific requirements for certification and licensure. Students are responsible for verifying these requirements and ensuring program qualifications meet their state or country’s standards before enrolling. Program availability may vary by state. Criminal history disclosures and background checks may be required for certain professions and licenses. National University cannot guarantee employment or specific salary outcomes upon graduation. Prospective students are advised to research job market requirements and trends related to their career goals.

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