For senior-level decision-makers seeking to amplify their impact and expertise, the Doctor Of Business Administration (DBA) represents a powerful, practice-focused doctoral degree. Designed for experienced professionals, a DBA program like the one offered at Robinson College of Business at Georgia State University provides a rigorous, part-time path to mastering applied research and advancing your career. This cohort-based, three-year program is structured to transform accomplished executives into thought leaders capable of tackling complex business challenges.
A Unique DBA Program Structure
The Robinson DBA program’s design is uniquely tailored for busy executives. The curriculum is strategically divided into two key phases to ensure timely graduation within three years.
Dissertation Development (Semesters 1-3)
The initial phase focuses on building a robust foundation in applied research methodologies. Students delve into both qualitative and quantitative research techniques. A cornerstone of this phase is a collaborative group research project, offering hands-on experience in the entire research lifecycle, from problem identification to potential publication. This practical approach ensures graduates are not just theorists but skilled practitioners of business research.
Dissertation Focus (Semesters 4-6)
Building upon the foundational knowledge, the latter semesters are dedicated to individual dissertation work. Students work closely with faculty advisors and a dissertation committee to conduct in-depth research on real-world business problems, culminating in the development and defense of their doctoral dissertation. This intensive process fosters deep expertise and thought leadership in a chosen area of business administration.
DBA vs. Ph.D.: Understanding the Distinction
While both the Doctor of Business Administration and the Ph.D. are terminal degrees, they cater to distinct career paths and research orientations. A DBA is specifically designed for professionals aiming to refine business practices and develop strategic perspectives through applied research. DBA graduates often seek to enhance their current roles, pivot to new executive positions, or even transition into academia with a practice-based focus. In contrast, the Ph.D. is typically geared towards full-time academic research careers, emphasizing theory-driven inquiry.
The research undertaken in a Doctor of Business Administration is inherently applied, addressing contemporary business challenges and seeking practical solutions. Dissertations focus on real-world issues, leveraging research methods and business theory to drive tangible improvements. Ph.D. research, conversely, is generally more theoretical, exploring broad, discipline-specific questions to advance academic knowledge.
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