As the nature of work continues to change, online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree programs are becoming more popular among working professionals who wish to stay put to their roles while advancing their education. With global inflation at its all-time highest, work and family commitments can make traveling for learning difficult. Working professionals therefore seek to find the most affordable online DBA programs to continue their academic pursuits.
When considering enrolling in an online DBA, it is essential to find a program that is affordable, flexible, and exceeds expectations for the rigor of the instruction that is provided. With the business market becoming more competitive, pursuing a DBA can help professionals set themselves apart in the market and open the door for higher-salary positions. Finding an online program that can meet personal and professional commitments is difficult enough, but adding an affordable price point is essential for making this a good return on investment.
Many prospective students who are taking advantage of these programs are busy professionals seeking management knowledge that will advance their careers while maintaining their work-life balance. Join us as we take a closer look at the top 10 most affordable online DBA programs in the United States. Select the school that best fits your needs and consider further inquiries about their DBA programs and financial opportunities.
Importance of Choosing an Affordable Online DBA Program
The cost of higher education has been rising for years, and while some students are fortunate enough to self-fund their professional and academic futures without taking out student loans or scholarships, many face staggering debt. Attending a program with high tuition and an excellent reputation may give one’s career a larger boost, but it could mean decades of loans for traditional students or a much higher interest rate.
The choice of an affordable online DBA program may have a lasting effect on a student’s future finances. Choosing an affordable online DBA program can render the pursuit of a doctorate more attainable for a diverse array of individuals, irrespective of their financial situation. It also has the potential to lessen the financial burden on students, which can free them to concentrate on their studies and career objectives without the added pressure of overwhelming debt.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Online DBA Program
Pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree is a significant decision and one that should be carefully considered. Tuition cost is an important factor that goes into selecting an online DBA program. However, this is not the only aspect that should go into a student’s decision-making process. Other factors that should be considered include:
- Accreditation
- Faculty qualifications and resources
- Curriculum and specializations
Prospective DBA students should look for a regionally accredited online program. Accreditation ensures quality. Faculty qualifications matter. Research is important, but teaching skills are also needed. Many DBAs work as adjunct instructors or assistant professors. Online DBA programs should have faculty with real-world experience. Check the faculty page on the school website.
The curriculum should cover a wide range of subjects, including ethics and international relationships. Foundational courses provide an overview of business. Electives offer a deeper look at different subject areas. Consider the number and availability of specializations offered. Aim for a wide offering that caters to at least 30% of the student population.
Top 10 Most Affordable Online DBA Programs
Top 10 Most Affordable Online DBA ProgramsThe United States is home to some of the most prestigious business schools in the world. This makes it difficult to choose a particular university for the Doctor of Business Administration program in the USA as most of these schools are regionally accredited and have all that is required for their graduates to excel in all works of life.
However, to help you find a high-quality yet affordable program, we have developed this list of the most affordable online DBA programs in the USA.
- California Intercontinental University
- Columbia Southern University
- Franklin University
- Baker College
- University of Phoenix
- Florida International University
- Concordia University Chicago
- Saint Leo University
- Johnson & Wales University
- University of Maryland
All 10 of the online Doctor of Business Administration degrees included here are properly accredited schools within the United States and offer one or more tracks or concentrations as well. These programs offer several starts each year.
#1. California Intercontinental University
Program Details:
- Duration: 2.5 Years
- Tuition Per Credit: $528
- Total Cost Per Course Including E-Books: $1,779
- Total Costs: $36,675
- Required Credits to Graduate:60
- Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
The California Intercontinental University Doctorate of Business Administration Online program is designed to equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge for both professional growth and new career prospects in the business field. Through this program, individuals will not only cultivate advanced decision-making abilities but also enhance their research and writing skills, which are vital for assuming high-level roles in academic and business settings.
California Intercontinental University holds accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The DBA program requires the completion of 60 semester credits, including 30 credits of Business Core courses, 15 credits of Specialization Elective courses, a Comprehensive Competency Assessment, and 15 credits of Dissertation courses. The Online Business Doctorate program encourages executives, college or university professors, and consultants to utilize their professional backgrounds to explore, design, and manage large systems within the complex organizations of an increasingly diverse and multi-sector economy.
#2. Columbia Southern University
Program Details:
- Duration: 2.5 Years
- Tuition Per Credit: $545
- Total Costs: $33,245(Tuition Only)
- Required Credits to Graduate:61
- Maximum Transfer Credits: 40
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Another competitive online DBA program comes from Columbia Southern University. The university provides distance education that allows students to study from anywhere at times that work for them. The flexibility of CSU’s format is great for students who wish to further their education while still working.
The Doctor of Business Administration program at Columbia Southern University focuses on providing industry professionals with essential critical thinking and strategic planning skills for various organizational settings. The program emphasizes decision-making, leadership, and data analysis, as well as effective problem-solving methods.
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be well-prepared to offer practical recommendations, drive innovation, and contribute new knowledge to their chosen industry segment. Additionally, students have the opportunity to develop investigative skills and conduct data analysis, preparing them to contribute new knowledge to a specific sector of the industry.
#3. Franklin University
Program Details:
- Duration: 3 Years
- Tuition Per Credit: $748
- Required Credits to Graduate:60
- Maximum Transfer Credits: 55%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
This non-profit university is known for its cost-effective DBA programs, offering an online Doctor of Business Administration for $748 per credit. Qualified students can also apply for a Doctoral Grant and Loan. The online DBA program at Franklin University focuses on practical business solutions and integrates this philosophy into its curriculum. Students often use their own businesses for project-based assignments.
The program also offers a broad business and governance background with specialty areas in healthcare, HR, supply chain, and accounting. Alumni appreciate the weighting of the degree and discounts offered through the Doctoral Grant and Loan programs. Reviewers also highlight the quality of the coursework, providing a deeper working knowledge in chosen areas of influence and leadership. The program’s real-world practice further enhances working knowledge.
#4. Baker College
Program Details:
- Duration: 3.5 Years
- Tuition Per Credit: $750
- Required Credits to Graduate:60
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Baker College offers an affordable online DBA program that provides students with a high-quality education. The institution is known for its reasonable tuition rates and outstanding curriculum. The program offers flexible online courses designed for working professionals. Through this online doctorate program, students acquire the education and skills necessary to address corporate issues at the highest levels.
The online completion of the DBA program enables students to improve their ability to work independently and in-depth, progressing from set content in the first year to supervised scholarly activities in the second year, and concluding with independent research focused on their areas of interest in the third year. Students can choose from six areas of specialization or create their own specialized fields of study.
By combining DBA classes with independent study, students develop a comprehensive understanding of business theories and techniques and gain practical experience by applying these principles in real business settings.
#5. University of Phoenix
Program Details:
- Duration: Varies by specific program requirements
- Tuition Per Credit: $810
- Total Costs: $2,635
- Required Credits to Graduate:54
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
The University Of Phoenix Online Doctor Of Business Administration program is arguably the cheapest online DBA program in the US. With a total tuition of $2,635, working professionals can earn an online doctorate in business administration in areas like accounting, finance, management, organizational leadership, and more. The University of Phoenix has the largest variety of online degree programs of all the institutions on our list.
The online DBA program is designed to foster creative thinking and develop essential leadership skills among students. The program consists of 8-week courses where students acquire hands-on experience in applying the Scholar Practitioner Leader Model, shaping their leadership personas, and carrying out influential research.
#6. Florida International University
Program Details:
- Duration: 3 Years
- Tuition Per Credit: $900
- Total Costs: $74,174.96
- Required Credits to Graduate:75
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Florida International University, located in Miami, boasts one of the ten most affordable online doctorates in business administration. Here, you will find a comprehensive program with a well-rounded and dynamic curriculum. FIU’s Chapman Graduate School of Business is in the top 15% of business schools worldwide to hold accreditation. The DBA program at FIU offers students a comprehensive approach to business, informed and directed by their choice of concentration.
The curriculum is constantly updated to guarantee the most pertinent topics in business to provide students with a broad understanding of global business, best practices for organizations, and the skills needed for publishing research. The DBA program targets experienced professionals pursuing a doctoral degree while also working. It focuses on developing practical research skills for leadership positions, providing graduates with the preparation for high-level executive careers.
#7. Concordia University Chicago
Program Details:
- Duration: 3 Years
- Tuition Per Credit: $963
- Required Credits to Graduate:60
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Concordia University Chicago’s accredited College of Business offers some of the most affordable online DBA programs in the USA. At just over 40,590 USD, including tuition, books, and supplies, this part-time study pathway is accessible to many ambitious professionals. CUC is recognized nationwide for delivering superior quality education with the needs of future industry leaders in mind.
The 3-year business specifications and dissertation sequence deliver all the insight and hands-on experience students need to navigate complex, real-world challenges. PhD-level faculty use their teaching experience and business expertise to guide learners through accelerated coursework, earning a specialization in Innovation in Health Care Management and Strategic Leadership and Innovation. The curriculum calls for 60 total credit hours delivered over nine semesters, which must be concluded in sequence for a total of 8 weeks each.
#8. Saint Leo University
Program Details:
- Duration: 3 – 4 Years
- Tuition Per Credit: $965
- Required Credits to Graduate:57
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Saint Leo University is committed to the highest monthly value for low-cost DBA programs with a flexible online curriculum. The tuition is budget-friendly and worth the investment since the education is of high quality, flexible, and convenient to balance work and family. Students enjoy smaller classes with personalized attention from their professors.
The online DBA program at Saint Leo University is an advanced degree that equips graduates with the necessary skills for research, critical analysis, and practical application in their business fields. This program builds on the university’s experience in offering flexible graduate programs that prioritize student needs, emphasize real-world application, and focus on achieving results.
#9. Johnson & Wales University
Program Details:
- Duration: 3 Years
- Tuition Per Credit: $993
- Required Credits to Graduate:54
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
The Doctor of Business Administration degree offered by Johnson & Wales University online is tailored to cater to various industries such as business, healthcare, government, the military, higher education, or nonprofits. Through this program, students will ethically tackle business challenges, develop critical and creative thinking skills, and master the art of transforming business practices to enhance organizational optimization, growth, and sustainability. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to take on roles as executive-level organizational leaders, industry innovators, consultants, and policymakers.
#10. University of Maryland
Program Details:
- Duration: 3 Years
- Tuition Per Credit: $1,087
- Required Credits to Graduate:48
- Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
Crafted with input from employers, industry experts, and scholars, the University of Maryland DBA curriculum focuses on advanced management theory, strategic thinking, organizational leadership, and the latest developments and research in the global business environment. The program is designed to offer opportunities for lifelong learning, a strong support network, and sustained success through real-world scenario analysis and a closely connected group format.
Keep an eye on the big picture when comparing affordable online DBA programs. It is essential to evaluate more than just the tuition when choosing an online doctor of business program. Think about whether a program is accredited, how experienced the faculty members appear to be, and whether the curriculum focuses on your career goals.
The cost of getting a degree in business administration is rising, so students should be looking for the most affordable programs to make a wise investment in their futures. This list is a great place to start because it profiles some of the most reputable colleges offering affordable online DBA degrees.
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