A DBA and a PhD in Business cater to different professional goals and academic interests. Both degrees support aspirations for leadership roles and are increasingly important in achieving them. But which one should you go for? Let’s examine their essential characteristics and guide you in determining the best path for your career.
This article was reviewed by Dr. Aamar Moorjani, PhD.
Why Are Advanced Degrees like a DBA and a PhD in Business Great for Leadership Roles?
Advanced degrees like PhDs and DBAs are crucial for pursuing top leadership roles. They provide specialized knowledge and skills for making informed decisions and solving complex problems. These degrees also reflect a deep commitment to the field, showcasing the ability to conduct rigorous research and think critically.
Networking is another significant benefit. Advanced degrees connect professionals with a network of peers, mentors, and industry leaders. This network facilitates collaboration, mentorship, and strategic partnerships, enhancing leaders’ ability to innovate and adapt in a dynamic industry.
Finally, the credibility and respect of advanced degrees open doors to leadership opportunities. Employers and stakeholders view PhD and DBA holders as experts with authority. This perception, combined with the demonstrated discipline and dedication, makes these degrees powerful tools for achieving advanced leadership positions.
DBA in Business: Hands-On Research
DBAs focus on practical application – they’re about solving real-world business problems with hands-on research.
In a Doctorate of Business Administration program, you’ll find yourself among seasoned professionals—CEOs, entrepreneurs, and senior managers. Learning from real-world experiences, you’ll dive into strategic management, leadership, and innovation with professors who blend academic knowledge and industry insights.
Your research isn’t just academic; it’s more of a hands-on learning experience on real problems faced by real businesses. You’ll tackle real business issues, providing solutions that can directly impact your career or organization. This original research sharpens your critical thinking and analytical skills, preparing you to lead and influence at the highest levels.
Finally, DBAs are more flexible and economical. CIU’s online programs allow working professionals to earn an advanced degree without juggling their personal and professional responsibilities.
PhD in Business: Theory and Continous Research
Meanwhile, a PhD in Business takes a different research approach, much more focused on academia and theory. Its main aim is to add to the body of preexisting knowledge.
Where a DBA is practical, a PhD is theoretical. It delves deep into the theories of commerce and management to draw fresh insights and innovative ideas into the business world. Research is less about solving a specific problem promptly and more about expanding knowledge.
PhD students often stay in academia for the long run. They continue doing research professionally and have teaching positions at universities.
And where a DBA is flexible, a PhD may demand higher commitment. A PhD typically requires you to make it your number one priority, taking the place of your job.
Choosing the Right Path for You
Choosing between a DBA and a PhD in Business depends on your career goals and research interests. A DBA is the right choice if you aim to solve real-world business problems, lead organizations, or work as a consultant. It focuses on practical, applied research and is designed for working professionals, often offering flexible, part-time schedules. Designed to be completed in 2.5 years, a DBA from CIU integrates coursework with research, allowing you to apply what you learn directly to your career.
On the other hand, if your passion lies in academia, teaching, or conducting theoretical research, a PhD is the way to go. This path is more intensive and requires a full-time commitment, usually taking 4-6 years. PhD programs emphasize deep theoretical research and significant coursework in the initial years, followed by extensive dissertation writing.
Ultimately, the DBA equips you to become a scholar-practitioner, driving innovation in the business world. At the same time, the PhD prepares you to be an academic expert, contributing to scholarly research and educating future business leaders. By considering your career objectives, research interests, and time commitment, you can make the right choice for your future.
Success Story: Michael Owens
Dr. Michael Owens exemplifies the transformative impact of a DBA in Business. After graduating from California Intercontinental University in 2011 with a Doctorate in Business Administration, Michael has had a distinguished career spanning over 25 years across startup, corporate, government, and military organizations.
As a cybersecurity executive, Michael has been at the forefront of addressing complex issues such as breach mitigation, threat intelligence sharing, and promoting diversity within the tech industry. He is the president and CEO of the U.S. Global Center of Cyber Policy, where he provides expert analysis on cybersecurity trends and policies to various levels of government.
Michael’s career includes leading roles at EY, where he directed the Global Cybersecurity, Cybercrime, and Critical Infrastructure Program, and at Cisco Systems, where he managed IT strategy engagements for government agencies. His extensive international experience spans projects in over 100 countries, and he has pioneered practices in SMB MSP and fractional CIO/CISO services.
An eight-year United States Marine Corps veteran, Michael is also involved with the US Marine Corps Cyber Auxiliary and various prestigious organizations. His educational background includes a bachelor’s degree from North Carolina A&T State University, a master’s degree from Georgia Institute of Technology, a doctorate from California Intercontinental University, and advanced certificates from the U.S. Army War College and Harvard University. He lives in Mableton, Georgia, and is a dedicated father of two.
Conclusion: DBA vs PhD in Business
DBA and PhD programs offer unique advantages for those aspiring to leadership roles in business. Your career aspirations should guide your choice—whether in industry or academia. Advanced degrees enhance your expertise and position you as a credible and capable leader in your field. For working professionals, flexible online DBA programs, such as those at CIU, provide an excellent opportunity to achieve your leadership goals without sacrificing your current career.
