If you’re considering advancing your career with a Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA), online programs offer the flexibility and accessibility that today’s professionals need. At California Intercontinental University (CIU), we offer accredited online DBA programs designed to help you achieve your goals—without pressing pause on your life or career.
At CIU, we know one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why we offer four unique DBA specializations and a flexible research approach that includes the option to complete either a traditional dissertation or a more practical Doctoral Research Project (DRP). Let’s explore your options.
Why Choose CIU’s Online DBA Programs?
Our online DBA program is designed for working professionals who want to develop advanced decision-making, leadership, and research skills. Whether you’re looking to move up in your current field or switch to a new one, this program equips you with the tools to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact.
With CIU, you’ll benefit from:
- Accredited online degree programs
- A friendly and collaborative learning environment
- Dedicated faculty and responsive student support
- Asynchronous courses to fit your busy schedule
- A choice between a Dissertation or Doctoral Research Project (DRP)
That last point is significant—many universities offer only the traditional dissertation path. At CIU, you can choose a more hands-on, practical research route through the DRP, aligning your doctorate with your career goals.
Your Four Online DBA Programs Options
At CIU, you don’t just earn a Doctorate in Business—you tailor it to your interests and industry. Here’s a breakdown of the four specializations you can choose from:
DBA in Global Business and Leadership
Ideal for professionals looking to thrive in international markets, the Global Business and Leadership program prepares you to create strategic solutions to global business challenges. You’ll dive into complex problem-solving, leadership development, and ethical global decision-making.
You’ll learn to:
- Lead with an entrepreneurial mindset on a global scale
- Solve industry problems with strategic, data-driven thinking
- Navigate international business challenges with ethical responsibility
- Develop innovative solutions for sustainable growth
DBA in Entrepreneurship and Business Management
The Entrepreneurship and Business Management specialization is perfect for business-minded innovators. Whether you’re launching a startup or leading an established company, you’ll master the skills to build, grow, and sustain successful ventures.
You’ll learn to:
- Analyze opportunities and challenges in new ventures
- Apply critical thinking to local and global business strategies
- Design strategic plans grounded in research and entrepreneurial insight
- Evaluate ethics and ROI in decision-making
DBA in Healthcare Management and Leadership
Designed for professionals in the fast-evolving healthcare industry, the Healthcare Management and Leadership program prepares you to lead with confidence and integrity. You’ll focus on leadership, ethics, and innovation in healthcare environments.
You’ll learn to:
- Address healthcare challenges with evidence-based strategies
- Lead complex healthcare teams and systems
- Apply research for continuous improvement in healthcare delivery
- Plan and manage ethically sound business practices in healthcare
DBA in Information Systems and Enterprise Resource Management
Tech-savvy leaders will thrive in the Information Systems and Enterprise Resource Management program, which blends business strategy with IT systems. It is ideal for those managing digital transformation or enterprise technologies.
You’ll learn to:
- Use data and research to drive organizational change
- Lead innovation in IT and information systems
- Evaluate ethical practices in the tech world
- Improve processes and resource management through digital tools
What You Can Expect Academically
All DBA specializations at CIU require 60 semester credits. Your coursework will include 30 credits of Business Core courses, 15 credits in your chosen specialization, a Comprehensive Competency Assessment, and 15 credits for your research component, either a Dissertation or a Doctoral Research Project (DRP)
Take the Next Step
An online DBA from CIU is more than a degree—it’s a powerful step toward becoming a thought leader in your field. With our supportive online environment, flexible learning model, and industry-relevant specializations, you’re not just studying business—you’re shaping the future of it.
