Are you a senior-level decision-maker seeking to amplify your impact and leadership capabilities? The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program at Robinson College of Business, Georgia State University, offers a transformative journey for experienced professionals like you. This rigorous, part-time doctoral program is meticulously designed to be completed in just three years, empowering you to master applied research methodologies and business theories to tackle real-world challenges.
The cohort-based structure of our DBA program fosters a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment. You will not only deepen your understanding of leadership and decision-making in today’s dynamic global landscape but also cultivate new perspectives to drive organizational change. Our mission is to equip you with the expertise to bridge the gap between academic insights and practical business solutions.
A Unique Program Structure for Executive Professionals
The Georgia State DBA program distinguishes itself with a thoughtfully crafted two-part structure, optimized for busy executives:
- Dissertation Development (Semesters 1-3): The initial phase focuses on building a robust foundation for your dissertation research. Through intensive coursework, you will gain proficiency in both qualitative and quantitative research methods. A unique group research project provides hands-on experience in the complete research lifecycle, from problem identification to potential publication, ensuring you are well-prepared for independent scholarly work.
- Dissertation Focus (Semesters 4-6): Building upon the acquired theoretical and practical knowledge, the latter part of the program is dedicated to the development and defense of your individual dissertation. You will work closely with a dedicated advisor and dissertation committee, receiving personalized guidance throughout your dissertation journey.
View the curriculum and course descriptions
DBA: A Distinct Path from the Ph.D.
While both a Doctorate In Business Administration (DBA) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) are terminal degrees, they cater to distinct career aspirations and learning objectives. The DBA is specifically tailored for professionals aiming to refine business practices, cultivate innovative perspectives through applied research, and enhance career flexibility, potentially including pathways into academia. In contrast, the Ph.D. is typically pursued by individuals seeking full-time, research-intensive careers within academic institutions.
Furthermore, the research orientation differs significantly. DBA candidates concentrate on applied research, employing research methodologies and business theories to address tangible, real-world business issues within their dissertations. Ph.D. research, conversely, is often theory-driven and delves into broader, discipline-specific academic inquiries.
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