20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

portrait of Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D. portrait of ASO Rankings Team
by

Updated April 4, 2023

check mark Edited by
check mark Reviewed by

Our Integrity Network

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.

Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:

  • Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
  • Provide specific, corrective feedback.
  • Identify critical information that writers may have missed.

Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.

Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.
Considering an online doctoral program in business? Learn about the top-ranked programs and whether a DBA or Ph.D. is right for you.

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Credit: d3sign | Moment | Getty Images

Management jobs pay the highest salaries of any career path. And a graduate degree in business can help you qualify for these coveted leadership roles.

While an MBA can get your foot in the door, a doctorate in business is the highest degree you can earn in business school. With a Ph.D. or DBA degree, you'll gain specialized knowledge and skills while preparing for your career in business.

Why Get an Online Ph.D. in Business or DBA Degree?

  • You'll have tons of business careers to choose from, from accounting to advertising.
  • An online Ph.D. in business can raise your salary potential and help you stand out from other job candidates.
  • You'll be more prepared to advance into executive roles.
  • You can attend a top business program without having to relocate.
  • Some online business doctorate programs offer discounted tuition to distance learners.
  • You can attend classes and complete coursework on your own schedule.

Did You Know?


  • Business is one of the most popular graduate degrees — nearly a quarter of all master's degrees awarded in 2020 were in business.
  • Compared to those with a master's degree, the median salary for those with a doctorate is around $17,000 higher per year.
  • Professionals with a doctorate report the lowest unemployment rate for any education level.

Get More Options With Our Featured Business Programs

Why Accreditation Matters for Online Business Doctorate Programs

Accreditation matters when you're choosing an online doctoral program in business.

Accredited universities meet high standards for academic excellence. To earn accreditation, schools must undergo a rigorous review of their student learning outcomes, instructor qualifications, and teaching materials.

A school's accreditation status can affect your financial aid, educational quality, and career prospects. Many employers and professional certifications require candidates to have a degree from an accredited institution.

When researching online business doctorate programs, check for accreditation.

In addition to institutional accreditation, reputable business schools should hold programmatic accreditation. Here are the major accrediting agencies for graduate business programs:

DBA vs. Ph.D: How Do They Differ?
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Ph.D. in Business
  • Emphasizes applied knowledge and practical skills
  • Programs typically take 3-5 years
  • Requires a dissertation or applied project as a culminating experience
  • Graduates can pursue leadership roles in business
  • Emphasizes business theory and research
  • Programs typically take 4-6 years
  • Requires a research-based dissertation as a culminating experience
  • Graduates can pursue academic and research jobs

Top Online Business Ph.D. and DBA Programs

Read About Our Methodology Here

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

Baker College

  • Owosso, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $750

Credits to Graduate: 60

Baker's online DBA program prepares you for leadership roles and to become a business consultant or analyst. The curriculum includes 33 credits of core courses in subjects like leadership theory and ethics, organizational theory and behavior, enterprise governance of IT, and quantitative research.

The online program emphasizes interdisciplinary theoretical knowledge, research techniques and designs. To apply, you'll need to have a 2.5 GPA or higher and submit an application, a resume, and an admissions essay.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,960
Out-of-state
$9,960
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,510
Out-of-state
$12,510
Retention Rate
61%
Admission Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
6,028
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
69% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

California Baptist University

  • Riverside, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $800

Credits to Graduate: 56

CBU Online's DBA program emphasizes innovation and sustainability and trains you to lead public, private, and nonprofit organizations. The cohort-based curriculum consists of eight-week online courses.

Coursework includes foundations of organization and management, economic theory, strategic marketing, and human resources management. To apply, you must have a bachelor's degree and send official transcripts. You may be asked for additional documents for GPA verification.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$33,930
Out-of-state
$33,930
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,410
Out-of-state
$13,410
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
11,317
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
83% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

City University of Seattle

  • Seattle, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $770

Credits to Graduate: 91

CityU's ACBSP-accredited DBA emphasizes organization interventional thinking, agile business practices, critical thinking, and leadership. You can choose between online and on-campus formats. In the online format, you'll have one live, hour-long, interactive session every other week. 

You can also choose your own specialization. The curriculum includes organizational development theories and trends, financial decision-making, and industry analysis and market innovation.

To get accepted, you must have a master's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,658
Out-of-state
$13,658
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,812
Out-of-state
$11,812
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,052
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
83% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

Concordia University-Chicago

  • River Forest, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $960

Credits to Graduate: 60

Accredited by ACBSP, CUC's online DBA emphasizes innovation, ingenuity, and entrepreneurship, with a foundation in research and theory. The 100% online curriculum offers two specializations: innovation in healthcare management and strategic leadership and innovation.

The curriculum covers social responsibility and ethical decision-making, doctoral research design for business, strategic thought leadership, and innovative best practices in healthcare management.

For admission, you'll need a master's degree with a 3.0 cumulative GPA. You must also submit official transcripts, a resume, a writing sample, and letters of recommendation.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,660
Out-of-state
$32,660
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,090
Out-of-state
$9,090
Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
6,491
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
87% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

Felician University

  • Lodi, NJ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,030

Credits to Graduate: 61

Felician's online DBA emphasizes mentorship and cutting-edge research. The self-paced online curriculum includes courses on statistical and quantitative analysis, historical and contemporary management theory, applied marketing theory, and applied decision theory.

You'll have the chance to engage in transformative research efforts designed to contribute to professional knowledge and practice. To apply, you need an MBA and must submit a resume, official transcripts, and a personal statement.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,550
Out-of-state
$32,550
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,080
Out-of-state
$19,080
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
2,556
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

Franklin University

  • Columbus, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $750

Credits to Graduate: 58

Franklin's 100% online DBA offers eight focus areas, including accounting, IT, public administration, marketing, human resources management, and healthcare management.

The curriculum includes courses like statistics; quantitative research; organizational leadership; and strategic thinking, decision-making, and innovation.

To apply, you'll need an accredited master's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. You must have at least 30 hours of graduate coursework in a business-related field or three years of relevant work experience.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,552
Out-of-state
$9,552
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,080
Out-of-state
$16,080
Retention Rate
9%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,926
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

Gardner-Webb University

  • Boiling Springs, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $930

Credits to Graduate: 60

Gardner-Webb's online DBA program prepares you to lead strategic initiatives, build a healthy work culture, and effect change in your community. You can choose from among five concentrations: accounting, finance, international business, management, and marketing.

Courses include foundations for ethical reasoning in business, advanced business statistics, marketing theory, and a doctoral dissertation.

To get in, you'll need an MBA or other master's degree in a business-related field with a minimum 3.0 GPA. You must also submit a resume, a statement of interest, and two letters of recommendation.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,220
Out-of-state
$31,220
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,000
Out-of-state
$9,000
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
3,536
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
74% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

Johnson & Wales University-Online

  • Providence, RI
  • 4 years
  • Online

Avg. Cost per Credit: $990

Credits to Graduate: 54

JWU's online DBA equips you with the skills you'll need to ​​conceptualize, investigate, and solve complex business problems. The cohort-based asynchronous program focuses primarily on organizational development.

Coursework includes organizational and strategy design, research design, organizational behavior, quantitative methods, contemporary leadership issues, and a dissertation.

To apply, you'll need to submit official undergraduate and graduate transcripts, a resume, essays, and letters of recommendation. You'll also need to participate in a video conference interview.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,365
Out-of-state
$13,365
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,148
Out-of-state
$14,148
Retention Rate
50%
Admission Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
2,152
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $980

Credits to Graduate: 60

Keiser's online ACBSP-accredited DBA combines theory and applied research so you can make a meaningful impact on business administration or academia. The program offers three specializations in global business, global marketing, and management.

You'll take classes in subjects like financial theory and policy, marketing management, and micro and macro organizational behavior.

To apply, you must have a relevant master's degree from an accredited institution. If you have a GPA below 3.0, you'll need to take prerequisite courses before starting the program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$19,808
Out-of-state
$19,808
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,162
Out-of-state
$27,162
Retention Rate
60%
Admission Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
20,330
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $600

Credits to Graduate: 60

Accredited by ACBSP, Liberty's online DBA emphasizes mentorship and training for the highest level of the corporate world. The program offers 17 specializations, including nonprofit leadership, strategic management, international business, and executive coaching.

Coursework varies by specialization but typically includes current topics in business administration, strategic allocation of financial resources, and applied research.

For admission to Liberty's DBA, you'll need at least 30 graduate-level business credits and a master's degree in business or a business-related field. The DBA information systems specialization has additional requirements for admission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

Lincoln Memorial University

  • Harrogate, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: ACBSP

Avg. Cost per Credit: $730

Credits to Graduate: 60

Program Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,040
Out-of-state
$23,040
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,705
Out-of-state
$20,705
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
4,885
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

Saint Leo University

  • Saint Leo, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: ACBSP

Avg. Cost per Credit: $970

Credits to Graduate: 57

Program Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,990
Out-of-state
$23,990
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,568
Out-of-state
$14,568
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
9,832
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

St. Thomas University

  • Miami Gardens, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,030

Credits to Graduate: 90

Program Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,800
Out-of-state
$31,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,400
Out-of-state
$14,400
Retention Rate
49%
Admission Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
5,601
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
36% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

University of Maryland Global Campus

  • Adelphi, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online

Programmatic Accreditation: IACBE

Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,090

Credits to Graduate: 48

Program Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,200
Out-of-state
$11,976
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,640
Out-of-state
$11,862
Retention Rate
55%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
58,526
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

  • Greensboro, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $350

Out of State | $1,130

Credits to Graduate: 54

Program Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,422
Out-of-state
$19,581
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,219
Out-of-state
$18,937
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
19,764
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

University of West Alabama

  • Livingston, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $630

Credits to Graduate: 60-66

Program Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,100
Out-of-state
$18,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,678
Out-of-state
$13,356
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
5,734
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
82% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

University of the Cumberlands

  • Williamsburg, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online

Programmatic Accreditation: IACBE

Avg. Cost per Credit: $500

Credits to Graduate: 66

Program Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,875
Out-of-state
$9,875
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,282
Out-of-state
$4,282
Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
19,110
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
99% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

University of the Incarnate Word

  • San Antonio, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: ACBSP

Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,130

Credits to Graduate: 45

Program Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,020
Out-of-state
$31,020
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,000
Out-of-state
$18,000
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
7,917
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

University of the Southwest

  • Hobbs, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online

Programmatic Accreditation: IACBE

Avg. Cost per Credit: $800

Credits to Graduate: 60

Program Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,000
Out-of-state
$16,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,500
Out-of-state
$22,500
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
904
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

20 Best Online Ph.D. in Business and DBA Programs

Wilmington University

  • New Castle, DE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: IACBE

Avg. Cost per Credit: $680

Credits to Graduate: 54

Program Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,430
Out-of-state
$11,430
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,784
Out-of-state
$8,784
Retention Rate
50%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
14,769
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
84% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Doctoral Program in Business?

  • General application
  • Official transcripts from all colleges attended (undergraduate and graduate)
  • Test scores, usually from the GMAT or GRE
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Resume
  • Statement(s) of purpose

How Much Does an Online Ph.D. in Business Cost?


Most online Ph.D. in business programs take 4-6 years to complete, costing you anywhere from $50,000-$170,000 in total tuition and fees.

Online DBA programs take roughly 3-6 years, depending on your school and whether you're full time or part time. This means that a DBA can cost anywhere from $37,000-$170,000.

The main factors that affect how much you'll spend on your online business Ph.D. or DBA degree are:

  • The length of your program
  • Whether you enroll in a private or public school
  • How much financial aid you qualify for
  • Whether your program is fully funded (many doctoral programs are!)
  • Whether you opt for a DBA or Ph.D.

Make sure to submit the FAFSA to see if you're eligible for federal grants and loans. Colleges and universities also use the FAFSA to award institutional aid.

In addition, check whether your employer offers tuition reimbursement.

Remember that when earning your DBA or Ph.D. in business online, you may need to budget for things like technology fees and a laptop.


Online Ph.D. in Business Specializations to Choose From

  • Accounting
  • Business Administration
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • Hospitality and Tourism
  • Management
  • Management Information Systems
  • Marketing
  • Operations

How Much Money Can You Earn With an Online Business Doctorate?

With a doctorate in business, you can qualify for high-paying management and executive roles. Many of these positions report median salaries in the six figures.

As the following table shows, the earning potential with a business doctorate varies depending on the field and title. Some of these positions do not require a business doctorate, but having one may make you a more attractive candidate. Experience and location can also affect salaries.

10 Popular Jobs for Business Doctorate-Holders
Job Median Annual Salary (May 2021) Job Growth Rate (2021-2031)
Chief Executives $179,520 -7%
Human Resources Managers $126,230 7%
Training and Development Managers $120,130 7%
Economists $105,630 6%
Top Executives $98,980 6%
General and Operations Managers $97,970 7%
Project Management Specialists $94,500 7%
Management Analysts $93,000 11%
Postsecondary Teachers $79,640 12%
Logisticians $77,030 28%

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Busines Doctorate Programs

What can you do with an online Ph.D. in business?

An online Ph.D. in business can lead to opportunities in academia and research. For example, you could become a business professor.

While an online business Ph.D. emphasizes theoretical and research skills, a doctor of business administration, or DBA, focuses on applied business for those seeking leadership roles in business.

How many years does it take to get an online Ph.D. in business?

Earning your Ph.D. in business online typically takes 4-6 years, depending on the program and your enrollment status. For example, part-time students generally require more time.

In comparison, most DBA programs take 3-5 years.

Are business Ph.D.s in demand?

A doctorate in business prepares you primarily to become a business professor. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, college professors are in demand, with a projected 12% growth rate from 2021-2031.

What's more, business professors tend to earn high salaries.

Is a DBA better than a Ph.D. in business?

A DBA and a Ph.D. in business are both doctorates, but because the two degrees serve different purposes, neither is necessarily better than the other.

As a practice-focused degree, a DBA can help you get leadership roles in business. A Ph.D., in contrast, emphasizes research and typically leads to academic jobs, such as business professor.

Before applying to DBA or Ph.D. programs in business, consider your career goals to find the right fit for you.

Is a DBA worth it?

A DBA can pay off. As a practitioner's degree in business, a DBA emphasizes applied skills and can help you advance into executive roles or gain the knowledge and skills to launch your own business.

DBAs also showcase your expertise for roles in consulting, administration, and academia.


All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the ASO Rankings Team.


Next Steps

Resources and Tools for Business School Students
Online MBA Degree Guide
Women's Guide to Business School

Popular Resources

Whether you’re looking to earn your online degree or you’re a parent looking for answers, you can find all of your questions covered here. Explore these resources to help you make informed decisions and prepare for whatever is thrown your way.

See All Posts

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Shape your future with an online degree

Connect with a community of peers, and find a program that will allow you to continue your education in a fast and flexible way.