For many education-driven professionals, a PhD is always a possible path. For business professionals, the Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) degree is no different.
Qualified leaders are in high demand in today’s rapidly evolving, highly competitive business world. Earning a DBA prepares you to excel in these business roles from the moment you step into the classroom.
You may be wondering, “What else can I do with a Doctorate in Business Administration degree besides teach?”. The answer is a lot. A DBA degree increases business credibility, expands career opportunities, and prepares you for promotions.
Increase Your Business Credibility
The DBA degree is the highest business degree a professional can earn other than a Ph.D.
The reason people tend to choose the DBA program over a Ph.D. program is that a practice doctorate (which is what a DBA falls under) aligns most with their career goals versus a research doctorate.
A DBA program teaches the theory of business and applies it to solve real-world business problems. Professionals will increase their expertise, especially with the unique dissertation experience a DBA program provides.
For example, Concordia University Chicago’s online DBA program has a mandatory dissertation for students to complete; however, you’ll be provided with support in the form of:
- Faculty mentor assigned based on expertise and interests
- Quality step-by-step preparation
Completing a thesis and original research requires more intense independent study in a DBA program compared to an MBA program, which can further illustrate your value to future employers or stakeholders.
Expand Your Career Opportunities
Earning your DBA degree will increase your marketability in a sea of master’s degrees, and that’s not the only perk.
Professionals who earn a DBA degree can choose to start their own business, pursue leadership roles in business or pursue leadership roles in health care organizations. You’ll build your network with peers, professors, and professional staff throughout your time in the program.
Networking can make all the difference when it comes to expanding career opportunities post-graduation.
Here are some examples of where DBA graduates can expect to find employment:
- Leading nonprofits and government agencies
- Heading large departments within an organization
- Consulting with companies on innovation and strategic leadership
- Managing healthcare facilities such as hospitals, physician clinics, and community centers
Along with an increase in career options, earning a DBA degree can mean a higher salary and promotions for you.
Better Potential for Promotions And Increased Salary
Earning a DBA degree will prepare you for various high-level management positions. Some examples include:
- Consultant
- Project Manager
- Business Analyst
- Financial Manager
- CEO, CFO, COO, Executive VP
You can use your gained knowledge and expertise in business to pursue promotions within your current company or move to a different career altogether.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2020 data on pay for differing education levels, earning a doctorate degree provides professionals with the highest possible pay. The median usual weekly earnings for doctorate degree holders is $1,885 compared to the median usual weekly earnings of master’s degree holders of $1,545.
No matter which decision you make, you’ll be fully prepared to take on upper management positions thanks to the experience of a DBA program.
Pursue a DBA Degree at Concordia University Chicago
Concordia University Chicago’s fully online Doctorate of Business Administration program is perfect for professionals who want to achieve expertise in the latest theory, research and real-life business strategies.
Our DBA program two offers specializations:
Because our program is completed entirely online, you’ll have the freedom and flexibility to earn your DBA within your timeframe. Students can typically earn their DBA in three years.
Learn theory and business best practices from top Concordia University Chicago professors who are current in their field. Visit our overview page today to learn more about our online DBA program.