The DBA and Ph.D. are different degrees, intended for different types of students.
The Executive DBA is the more business-applicable degree, designed for experienced professionals who want to influence the future of business as consultants and professors, while continuing to work full time. The Ph.D. in Business Administration is a full-time, research-oriented program designed to prepare graduates for academic teaching and research careers.
The two programs each have a unique research focus, as well. The table below compares the two programs.
Doctorate in Business Administration at UNC Charlotte |
Ph.D. in Business Administration in Full-time Programs |
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|---|---|---|
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Program Length & Structure |
3 years, with five Charlotte residencies per semester for the first two years |
4-7 years, full-time, year-round |
|
Profile |
Experienced professionals who want to open doors into consulting and teaching, by examining relevant business problems |
Individuals who want to prepare themselves for a research career in academia |
|
Previous Work Experience |
At least 5 years of professional experience |
No business experience required, most often only academic requirements |
|
Previous Education |
Should have an MBA or relevant master’s |
A bachelor’s is sufficient, but a master's is often required |
|
Curricular Emphasis |
Core courses cover multiple business disciplines, business theory and research methodology. Program concludes with a dissertation. |
Core courses cover one business discipline, business theory and research methodology. Program concludes with a dissertation. |
|
Degree Awarded |
Doctor of Business Administration |
Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration |