The DBA is a three-year, professional program emphasizing the practical application of research to current business challenges, students are expected to complete the program concurrently while maintaining their roles as enterprise leaders and executives. This provides students the opportunity to tailor their program research to appropriately address immediate organizational needs. The program will prepare students for; an expanded role in their organization, a transition to a different firm or industry, a career as a private consultant, or university-level instruction.
Program Highlights
- A 3-year fully online program, accredited through the Higher Learning Commission.
- Six 8-week terms per year, with start dates available for each.
- Tuition is $799 per credit hour – no hidden fees!
- Tuition includes ALL course material and a laptop.
- Transfer credit accepted.
- Students can choose between a live 3-day residency or an 8-week seminar, both fully online.
- Dedicated and experienced faculty to guide students through the dissertation process.
- Small class sizes assure great support throughout the program.
- All active students receive a membership to free virtual healthcare through HealthiestYou.
Specializations
Applying to the DBA program
Admission Criteria
Required:
- A conferred master’s degree from an accredited university
- A grade point average (GPA) of 3.0, or higher, on a four-point scale in all graduate coursework
- Three years, or more, of industry experience in the selected field of study
- Official masters transcript(s)
- Program admission application
- Program admission essay*
- Current resume/cv
- Two letters of reference
Preferred:
- A conferred MBA or master’s degree in the field of business from an accredited university
- A grade point average (GPA) of 3.5, or higher, on a four-point scale in all graduate coursework
- Five years, or more, of executive-level (Director, VP, C-Suite, etc.) experience in selected field of study
- Official masters transcript(s)
- Program admission application
- Program admission essay*
- Current resume/cv
- Two letters of reference
*Program admission essay is an opportunity to demonstrate to the committee why you wish to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of the Southwest and showcase graduate-level writing abilities for their consideration. The essay should be 1,000-1,500 words explaining what you hope to achieve by pursuing a doctoral degree, the personal strengths that will help you succeed in a doctoral program, and describe how obtaining a DBA will help you institute a positive social change within your chosen field or industry.
