Get a doctorate in business administration online from globally ranked universities, start the journey via College Vidya
If you have been thinking of enhancing your leadership, strategic thinking, and research skills, vital in today's fast-paced and globalised economy, then an online Doctor in Business Administration (DBA) programme is for you. But what is DBA? Is it like a regular doctoral degree? Is it the same as a PhD degree? We will attempt to answer all of these questions as well as give you a sneak peek at some of the best online DBA programmes you can check out via College Vidya.
Before we do that, let's begin with the basics. Research, as the world knows it, hasn't soared as expected in India, and even a PhD – despite all the hype – rarely guarantees career success. The journey is often long, draining, and frustrating. From unhelpful, ego-driven guides to sky-high fees and personal errands disguised as "tasks', the system feels rigged. Funding is scarce, timelines stretch endlessly, and desperation leads many to plagiarism. With originality side-lined and degrees sometimes sold, India's research landscape needs more than ambition - it needs reform. For young scholars, it's a reality check wrapped in academic robes. That's where a programme like DBA comes in, especially in the business domain.
Research isn't just for scientists in labs - it's vital across humanities, commerce, and every industry. If you're passionate about original thinking and dream of leading in business, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) lets you dive deep into real-world problems while boosting your career with impactful, high-level insights that truly matter.
Unlike a traditional PhD, a DBA is industry-focused, designed to wrap up in 3 or 4 years, and opens doors to top roles in MNCs. With rising demand for expert consultants and leaders, the DBA offers real-world relevance, faster results, and better career prospects, which are perfect for ambitious professionals ready to make an impact.
But what about doing this course online? An online DBA gives you the freedom to study from anywhere while balancing work and life with ease. It equips you with advanced business skills and fast tracks your way into leadership roles. You also get the chance to innovate and create real solutions for industry challenges. Unlike traditional PhDs, it avoids lengthy approvals and complex procedures. With strong infrastructural support and relevant content, online DBA programmes are designed to be smooth, efficient and free from unnecessary bureaucratic barriers.
For mid-career professionals or those with 7 to 10 years of experience, an online DBA offers the chance to refine leadership skills, drive strategic decisions, and gain advanced research capabilities. It's ideal for mid-career professionals aiming to transition into senior management or academia.
Now that we have seen the various aspects of DBA including online versions and compared it with the traditional PhD process, let's try and understand how senior leadership can benefit from opting for online DBA. A DBA shapes future thought leaders by combining real world insight with deep academic learning. It helps experienced professionals level up their strategic game and step confidently into powerful leadership roles. If you dream of influencing big decisions and driving real change in business, the DBA is your launchpad.
To reiterate, the doctorate advantage is real when you choose to do an online DBA course. We have put together a list of colleges that offer the best DBA courses for your perusal. Do check them out here.
Doctor of Business Administration, Golden Gate University, San Francisco, USA
Programme:The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) at GGU is ideal for senior professionals, consultants, and academics aiming to deepen their expertise. The programme focuses on business theory, research methods, and the link between business, society, and global issues. You'll dive into a dissertation based on real-world challenges that matter to you. It's all about meaningful impact, ethical leadership, and contributing to your field. If you're ready to take business knowledge to the next level, this DBA is for you.
Duration:36 months
Key features:Golden Gate University's DBA programme stands out with WASC accreditation, placing it alongside top institutions like Stanford and UCLA. You'll attend live, interactive classes supported by expert faculty, teaching assistants, and a global peer network. The curriculum is designed to combine academic theory with practical, industry-relevant knowledge, preparing you to address real-world business problems with confidence.
With access to GGU's 70,000+ strong alumni network—including C-suite executives, entrepreneurs, and even NASA astronauts—you'll gain global insights and valuable connections. Plus, hybrid learning and generous scholarships can reduce your tuition fees by up to 70%, all while earning a prestigious U.S. degree.
Curriculum
GGU DBA Programme – Curriculum Overview
Core Research Modules
Accounting and Finance
Leadership & Strategy
Business Analytics
Marketing
Dissertation
Why choose Golden Gate?Choose Golden Gate University for its WASC accreditation, over 120 years of academic excellence, and real-world focused faculty. Ranked #1 in the U.S. for working professionals and in the top 10% globally for employability, GGU blends respected credentials with practical learning - making it an outstanding choice for ambitious professionals aiming to lead and grow in today's business world.
Fee structure:
Course Fee (Without Immersion)INR 10,65,000 (No taxes applicable)
Course Fee (With Immersion)INR 12,15,000 (No taxes applicable)
Learn more:https://d1aeya7jd2fyco.cloudfront.net/upload_file/dba-from-golden-gate-university-brochure.pdf
Executive Doctor of Business Administration from SSBM Geneva
Programme: The Executive DBA's a top-level business degree backed by Swiss-quality education, global credentials, brilliant faculty and solid alumni. It opens loads of career paths and helps you ace your thesis.
Duration: 36 months
Key features: The EDBA programme offers an in-depth academic structure, covering Research Methodology in two parts, followed by Research Proposal and Thesis Writing, delivered through concept papers and literature reviews for a well-structured and comprehensive learning experience.
Why choose SSBM, Geneva? The EDBA programme at SSBM Geneva offers a well-rounded learning experience through a structured curriculum and an engaging immersion programme. Students benefit from expert-led sessions on leadership, interact with esteemed faculty to explore the scope of the EDBA, and attend discussions with on-campus students and alumni. Peer-to-peer networking and SME-led group activities enhance collaboration and insight-sharing. To round off the experience, the programme includes a visit to a nearby city, adding a cultural and social dimension to the academic journey.
Fee structure: INR 7,50,000 (without immersion) and INR 10,50,000 (with immersion) (information sourced from official web site)
Learn: https://d1aeya7jd2fyco.cloudfront.net/upload_file/SSBMDBAbrochure.pdf
Doctor of Business Administration from Paris Graduate School of Management (ESGCI)
Programme:
This EDBA programme features a 6-month foundation phase, live sessions with ESGCI faculty, and personalised 1:1 thesis supervision. With 180 ECTS credits (a standard used across the European Union and other participating countries for comparing study workload and academic achievements) and global accreditations including IACBE, ACBSP, QUALIOPI, and recognition from the French Ministry of Higher Education, it ensures strong academic value. A comprehensive curriculum taught by expert faculty offers a well-rounded and internationally recognised DBA experience.
Duration:36 months
Key features:
The EDBA programme is structured into a Foundation Phase and a Dissertation Phase, offering 180 ECTS credits. Key areas covered include research methods, topic formulation, literature review, data collection, and both quantitative and qualitative techniques. Students benefit from live sessions, defence preparation workshops, doubt resolution support, and dedicated dissertation mentorship throughout the thesis journey.
Why choose ESGCI, Paris?
Paris Graduate School of Management (ESGCI) is a well-known business school with a strong international focus. Recognised by the French Ministry of Higher Education, it hosts students from over 65 nationalities, with 20% being international learners.
Fee structure: ₹8,14,000 (full fee)
Learn:
https://d1aeya7jd2fyco.cloudfront.net/upload_file/doctor-of-business-administration-from-esgci-brochure.pdf
Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) from European Global
Programme:
The DBA from European Global, an A Level 8 qualification on the Maltese Qualifications Framework (MQF) and the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) requires original research or innovative knowledge application. It enhances professionals' analytical, research, and publishing skills, advancing their careers. Scholars can specialise in fields like marketing, finance, technology, HR, healthcare, and more, contributing to professional and academic growth.
Key features:
The EU Global DBA is a flexible, internationally recognised Level 8 doctorate combining academic research with practical business application. It includes 180 ECTS credits, live residencies, and 1:1 thesis supervision.
The curriculum covers leadership, research methods, literature review, and a 60,000-word dissertation. Specialisations include marketing, finance, HR, and more. Designed for experienced professionals, it supports monthly intakes and offers global networking through EU Global alumni status.
Why choose European Global?
Opting for this institute ensures access to distinguished faculty, a comprehensive curriculum, and a programme designed to enhance research and leadership skills. The DBA programme offers flexibility, global recognition, and practical application, preparing students for advanced roles in today's dynamic business environment.
Fee structure: ₹8,35,000 (full fee)
Learn:
https://d1aeya7jd2fyco.cloudfront.net/upload_file/EU_Global_DBA_Brochure.pdf
Doctorate of Business Administration from Rushford Business School
Programme:
The Rushford DBA programme emphasises applied research, enabling executives and managers to implement learning in real-time within their organisations. It focusses on enhancing expertise in business and management, with coursework that improves research, writing, presentation, critical thinking, and change management skills for practical, strategic application.
Duration:36 months
Key features:
The Rushford Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a 180 ECTS doctoral programme tailored for professionals. It equips students with advanced research and analytical skills to tackle complex business challenges. Offering two pathways - Coursework and Research - the programme allows students to select the path that aligns with their prior experience and career goals.
The core curriculum focusses on developing essential skills in research methodologies, business communication, data analysis, critical thinking, and change management. Students are trained to apply qualitative and quantitative research methods, communicate effectively, and analyse data. The programme concludes with a thesis, enabling students to make original contributions to their fields and prepare for leadership roles in various business sectors.
Why choose Rushford Business School?
Rushford Business School offers a globally recognised DBA programme with prestigious accreditations, including IACBE and ACBSP. Students gain valuable exposure through a 5-day Paris immersion and benefit from 1:1 mentorship. The experienced faculty, coupled with a vast network of 300+ hiring partners, ensures significant career advancement opportunities.
Fee structure: ₹7,10, 000 (full fee)
Learn:
https://d1aeya7jd2fyco.cloudfront.net/upload_file/DBA-Rushford-Brochure.pdf
Doctorate in Business Administration from EIMT
Programme:
EIMT's three-year online Doctorate in Business Administration is designed for professionals looking to advance their business knowledge through original research. With flexible batches, expert supervision, and a supportive alumni network, the programme focuses on leadership, strategy, and innovation to tackle modern business challenges effectively.
Duration:3 years (36 months)
Key features:
Programme Highlights
Three-year online DBA programme designed for working professionals.
Practical, project-based learning approach to build real-world skills.
Developed in consultation with leading industry figures and experts.
Earn the same prestigious degree awarded to on-campus students.
World-class pedagogy crafted by top academicians and industry professionals.
Post-study work opportunities to boost your global career prospects.
Curriculum
Developing Research Capability
Advanced Research Design and Methodologies
Strategic Human Resource Management
Strategic Financial Management
Strategic Marketing
Managing Strategic Change
Project Development, Planning, and Management
Developing Strategic Management and Leadership Potential
Supply Chain and Operations Management
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Globalisation and Corporate Governance
Research and Dissertation (final year focus)
Fee structure: ₹5,50,000
Learn:
https://d1aeya7jd2fyco.cloudfront.net/upload_file/EIMT_Online_DBA_Brochure.pdf
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
Towards Net Zero: Rethinking business for a sustainable future
Two thousand and seventy! Every business in India is focused on this year. As India Inc. navigates the complexities of daily operations, aligning with this long-term goal of reaching Net Zero has become central to its strategy and operations. Five decades may seem a long way away but a reset in business operations, some of which are decades old, needs to be executed. Sustainability is emerging as a central theme for businesses, not just as a regulatory or reputational necessity but also as a moral imperative. With India committed to achieving net zero by 2070, companies bear the onus of mitigating harmful emissions that impact public health. Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it has emerged as a crucial theme that transcends regulatory compliance and reputational concerns, evolving into a moral imperative. With India's commitment to achieving net zero by 2070, the responsibility now rests on companies to mitigate harmful emissions and protect the environment for future generations. Sustainability-focused regulatory legislations, such as Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR), are compelling companies to measure their environmental impact and take definite actions to minimise it. ET Spotlight SUSTAINABILITY METRICS At the heart of sustainable businesses could be assessing operations at each step. Measuring the carbon footprint, for example, could help in developing a strategy to cut down its emissions. A company's carbon footprint is the amount of greenhouse gas emissions it generates while creating its products or services. Once companies identify the greenhouse gas sources, it could be the early steps in cutting down carbon footprint. Areas for improvement, setting reduction targets, and tracking progress could follow. Live Events Heavy industries, such as steel, cement, and chemicals, account for over 70 percent of industrial emissions. Transitioning to renewable energy sources can significantly reduce carbon footprint. The roadmap for India's hard-to-abate sectors offers a clear plan that calls for consistent and collaborative efforts from industry players. ET Spotlight While businesses focus on measuring and tracking their sustainability initiatives, they can educate and engage with their employees to drive home the importance of sustainable practices. They can develop and opt for green policies and use technology to reduce their carbon footprint. Aligning with regulatory requirements ensures businesses stay ahead of compliance while contributing to India's broader sustainability goals. The convergence of competitiveness and decarbonisation paves the way for a sustainable future for everyone. ENERGY EFFICIENT TOMORROW Sustainable business operations can contribute in a big way to cutting down emissions, with a 'more electric, more digital approach' driving energy transition with demand-side optimisation at its core. Reducing consumption, minimising waste, and optimising efficiency could be critical. Improving energy efficiency can account for over 40 percent of the greenhouse gas emissions reductions needed to meet global climate goals by 2040, according to the International Energy Agency. As India aims for 500GW of non-fossil energy by 2030, demand-side management is essential for grid stability and renewable integration. ET Spotlight By optimising energy consumption, reducing inefficiencies, and enabling prosumers, India can drive nearly 50 percent of total carbon dioxide reductions. Electrification and digitalisation accelerate decarbonisation—energy efficiency alone can cut emissions by 25 percent, while electrifying industrial processes and adopting green hydrogen can further reduce carbon footprints. Sustainability-focused regulatory frameworks such as Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) compel companies to rigorously measure their environmental impact and take concrete actions to minimize it. This shift in accountability will not only enhance corporate reputation but also drive innovation and create competitive advantages in an increasingly eco-conscious market. Aligning daily operations with the long-term goal of reaching Net Zero has transitioned from a mere priority to a central tenet of corporate strategy. While 2070 may seem far off, the need for a comprehensive reset in business operations—many of which are entrenched in decades-old practices—is urgent and immediate. Digitalisation, electrification, and automation could be the way ahead.
The Hindu
4 days ago
- The Hindu
Call to integrate sustainability into business models
Experts have called for a greater integration of sustainability principles into modern business models at a recent symposium hosted at the Manakula Vinayagar Institute of Technology (MIT College). Inaugurating the national conference on 'Contemporary Challenges in Business and Management for Sustainable Development (CIBMSD - 2025),' organised by the Department of Management at MIT, R. Kasilingam, Head and Professor, Department of Management, Pondicherry University, stressed the importance of research-based policies and ethical leadership. He also called for collaboration between academia and industry in building a resilient, inclusive and green economy, and highlighted the urgent need to integrate sustainability into business models. He exhorted youth to explore innovative solutions that balance profitability with environmental and social responsibility. The various sessions under the broad theme, 'Sustainnovation 2.0' dwelt on the concept of 'Decent Work and Economic Growth' and industry, innovation and infrastructure, which represent the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 8 and SDG 9) set by the United Nations. M. Dhanasekaran, Chairman and Managing Director of Manakula Vinayagar Educational Group and the Chancellor of the Tindivanam Takshashila University, presided over the symposium. S. Malarkkan, Principal, outlined the objectives of the event which was designed as a learning platform for students and researchers. Narayanasamy Kesavan, Secretary, P. Baskaran, Head of the Department of Management, R. Valli, Head of the College IQAC and Head of the Department of Research and Development, and S. Vaitheeswaran, conference coordinator also participated. The event attracted more than 200 research students, teachers and students from various colleges nationwide. In all, 55 research papers were selected for presentation out of the submissions. Rafia Banu from B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent College of Science and Technology, K. Kamalakannan from SRM University and Divyadarshini from Puducherry University served as the conference chairs.
Economic Times
29-05-2025
- Economic Times
What's there in store for metal stocks? Amnish Aggarwal explains
Live Events You Might Also Like: Amnish Aggarwal on where to find value in capital market theme (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our ETMarkets WhatsApp channel , Head-Research,, discusses the metal sector rally, noting raw material gains drove profits. Volume growth is crucial for further gains. Safeguard duties offer price support. MNCs are diluting stakes in Indian ventures due to valuation differences. Commitment levels and technology dependence are key factors. Stake reductions below 51% may signal reduced interest. The impact varies by company and metal stocks have already seen a rally and if you look at the numbers, the volumes in all the metal stocks have not been that encouraging for most of the companies. The margins have been there mainly because raw material prices have been benign. So, it is not the product pricing, but it is the raw material gains which have given them incremental profits and that is very well reflected in the stock prices because the stock prices have moved up by anywhere between 20% to 30% in the past two-three incrementally, the volume growth has to pick up. Safeguard duty is responsible for giving some hopes that the prices will be sustained and the profitability will remain healthy. If the profitability remains healthy, we will not see any big cut happening in the stock prices of all the metal companies. But incrementally, from here on, the returns should be more moderate than what we have seen particularly in the last month or have to look at this on a case-to-case basis because many of these companies or MNCs today are holding stocks not because they had come in very willingly or something, but because the government regulations at that point of time permitted them to hold. Today, in many of these large MNCs, the kind of valuations which are there in India whether you look at say some of these durable companies like LG Electronics or even Hindustan Unilever or others, the market cap seems to be disproportionately higher in terms of valuations because the Indian companies trade at a significant premium to where their MNC parents are trading today at. That is prompting some of these MNC parents to dilute some holding over there and reallocate their resources elsewhere globally where they see more growth or do some buybacks and things like as far as growth is concerned, it depends upon how much commitment is there. For example, if there is some MNC parent which reduces a stake to say 15%, 20%, then they are gradually losing interest in that particular company and it also depends on the business of the company that how much that business is technologically or otherwise dependent upon the MNC parent. In many of the sectors where the companies need to get a continuous flow of technology from the parent, reduction of the stake below say a level of 51% in certain cases, I think that I would see that as some of the companies which you showed in the chart, particularly some of these MNCs which are in the capital goods sectors like your ABB Siemens and many of these names, there the stakes are anywhere between say 51% to 75%, a couple of them I think maybe GE Vernova has also cut down stake below 51, although the company is growing technically speaking, any company reducing the stake below 51% is not a very welcome signal because then you are not the majority holder of that company and in the longer term where your strategies are going to be, slightly difficult to say and that is how I would read and rest it all depends upon how much and what type of company it is, what type of technology transfer happens and how critical are the operations of the domestic entity for its parent.
