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DBA Program Designs

In choosing a DBA program, it is important to ensure that the design of the program matches your objectives. Nearly all programs have a research methods component near the start, and a dissertation/project requirement at the end. With respect to coursework, there are four basic design philosophies that we commonly see:

1. Doctorate by publication: Very little course work, with a degree being awarded almost entirely based on the dissertation. Popular in Europe, not in the United States.
2. Disciplinary: Resembles a traditional PhD with substantial coursework focusing on a single function
3. Multi-Disciplinary: Resembles an MBA in structure, with survey courses on the research in each business function
4. Interdisciplinary: Course work focuses on topics that cross the business functions, such as analytics, innovation, creativity, strategy, systems theory and sustainability.

Key features of our program

• Multi-disciplinary course offerings include both research methods and areas of strategic focus for the 91tvӰԺ Muma College of Business
• Publication courses provide students with structured opportunities to publish different types of research
• Topics for "issues courses" later in the program are selected by students from a list of course proposals
• Students may propose issues courses and even design and co-teach them under faculty direction
• Dissertation requirements are rigorous but also flexible; may be fulfilled with a traditional thesis, book, major research project, or with a portfolio of research-driven activities
• Tuition of $30,000 per year for three years includes:
  • Meals, required books, and course materials.
  • A $6,000 budget for approved student research and travel expenses
  • A $2,000 budget during the final year for research expenses, such as transcription and editing
• For additional financial aid info, visit: /financial-aid.  As well, you may view the Specialized Graduate Programs Cost of Attendance to estimate the costs associated with your attendance.