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Business Administration Doctorate, D.B.A.

John Chambers College of Business and Economics

Marco Schaaf, a Business Administration major poses a question to Dr. John Howard, Director of NIOSH during the School of Public Health's Dean's Colloquium in the Health Sciences Center

The Doctorate of Business Administration degree, offered by the WVU John Chambers College of Business and Economics, is carefully constructed to provide you with a foundation in research, an in-depth exposure to academic literature, and a supportive environment through faculty guidance and mentorship.

Cost:

$1,509 / Cost per credit hour *

Courses and Credits:

13 Courses / 53 Credits

Duration:

Three years

Dates:

Next Start: July, 2025 Admission Term: Summer

Learning Format:

Online courses

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Program Overview

Build a Career Utilizing Advanced Business Research Skills

Our Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) program, with concentrations in accounting, economics, management, and marketing, targets experienced business professionals creating pathways for you to consider academia, consulting and advanced professional positions. The DBA is carefully constructed to provide students with a foundation in research, an in-depth exposure to business literature, and a supportive environment through faculty guidance and mentorship. 

Experienced Cohort Bridging Academia and Industry

Given the experience level of the students entering the program, this will create graduates who can easily help bridge the gap between academia and the industry. You will benefit from the experience and expertise faculty members but will learn a great deal from their peers through professional networking and collaboration.

Curriculum

The DBA curriculum is typically completed over three years. Core classes cover statistics, research methods and business pedagogy, along with research and dissertation work. Students can specialize in areas of emphasis such as Accounting, Economics, Management or Marketing, each offering specialized courses and mentorship from research-active faculty. When you graduate, you will be well-prepared for careers in academia, consulting, government, or industry, with advanced knowledge and research skills in their chosen field.

DBA Core Classes
  • BADM 700 Statistics Bootcamp
  • BADM 701 Research Methods 1 – Introduction to Regression
  • BADM 702 Research Methods 2 – Cross Section Data Analysis
  • BADM 703 Research Methods 3 – Experimental Methods
  • BADM 704 Research Methods 4 – Causal Inference
  • BADM 705 Research Methods 5 – Non Cross Section Data Analysis
  • BADM 706 Ethics, Diversity, and Inclusion for Business
  • BADM 707 Business Pedagogy
  • BADM 797 Research/Dissertation
Please note: There are only two areas of emphasis available for the 2025-25 academic year. Accounting and Economics. Marketing and Management areas are full for this year.

Accounting Area of Emphasis
In the Accounting emphasis, students gain a deep understanding of accounting areas such as financial reporting, analytics, forensic accounting, systems, managerial accounting, taxation and auditing, enabling them to make informed financial decisions and manage risks effectively. You will receive one-on-one mentorship from our research-active faculty who are thought-leaders in their fields. Graduates will be well-equipped with accounting research knowledge and skills to take on new challenges of an academic or research career.

Accounting Area of Emphasis Course List
  • BADM 710 Introduction to Accounting Research
  • BADM 711 Behavioral Accounting Research
Choose a Track
  • Applied Professional Research Track
    • BADM 713 Introduction to Applied Professional Accounting
    • BADM 714 Advanced Professional Accounting Research
  • Academic Research Intensive Track
    • BADM 715 Accounting Academic Research Intensive
    • BADM 716 Advanced Academic Accounting Research

Economics Area of Emphasis
The Economics area of emphasis focuses on training students to conduct applied microeconomic research using the theories and methods most applicable to public policy. The focus on public finance, public choice, regional economics and labor will prepare students to conduct hiqh-quality research applicable to jobs in academia, consulting, government or think tanks.

Economics Area of Emphasis Course List
  • BADM 721 Public Finance
  • BADM 722 Labor Economics
  • BADM 723 Public Choice
  • BADM 724 Regional Economics

Management Area of Emphasis

The management emphasis is comprised of two primary streams of research: 1) organizational behavior and human resource management and 2) strategy and entrepreneurship. Students in the management AOE explore employee performance and the factors that influence behavior in the workplace, leadership strategies and approaches for motivating employees, and strategic management processes including alliances, competitive dynamics, and technology and innovation.

Students in the management emphasis will receive one-on-one mentorship from a scholarly academic, research-active mentor. This provides students with the support needed to develop novel research ideas and independent research skills. Upon completion of the program students will be prepared to assume executive leadership roles as well as adjunct teaching roles at colleges and universities.

Management Area of Emphasis Course List

  • BADM 730 Organizational Behavior
  • BADM 731 Strategy 1
  • BADM 732 Strategy 2
  • BADM 733 Leadership

Marketing Area of Emphasis
WVU’s rigorous and transformative DBA in Marketing program provides marketing professionals and academics the opportunity to pursue the pinnacle of academic achievement. Through our core marketing courses, you will deepen your knowledge about important marketing topics, such as consumer behavior, marketing strategy, B-to-B marketing, international marketing, and brand management. You will receive one-on-one mentorship from our research-active faculty who are thought-leaders in their fields. Graduates will be well-equipped with marketing knowledge and skills to take on new challenges in their career in marketing industry, consulting or academia.

Marketing Area of Emphasis Course List

  • BADM 741 Interfirm Relationships
  • BADM 742 Marketing Management
  • BADM 743 Consumer Behavior
  • BADM 744 Marketing Strategy
AACSB accreditation logo
Chambers College is Accredited by the AACSB
The Chambers College is AACSB accredited and has been for over 60 years. Only 5% of business schools globally receive this distinction.

Video: Why Pursue WVU's DBA?

Christian Schaupp, program coordinator for the Doctorate of Business Administration graduate program, explains how the DBA can help you go further in your field.

Admissions Requirements and Eligibility

Admission to the DBA is highly competitive; meeting the minimum standards for admission does not guarantee admission. A holistic admissions process considers minimum requirements as well as professional accomplishments and certifications. Success in the program requires significant commitment and time. The cohort design does not permit for students to take courses outside of the prescribed sequence. Consideration for admission is only given to those applicants that have a complete application package on file with the WVU College of Business and Economics.

To be eligible for consideration for the DBA program applicants must:

  • Have a minimum of 5 years of work experience.
  • Have a master's degree in business, communications, media management or other related field from an accredited college or university. If you do not have a master’s degree, we offer accelerated master’s to DBA options.

Admissions Process and How to Apply

Once qualified to proceed with the application to the DBA program, applicants will be required to submit additional documents, including:

  • Upload a current resume.
  • Request two letters of recommendation from employers, faculty, or professional associates.
  • Create a Statement of Purpose. 
    • Your statement of purpose should be a short, one-page essay which describes your interest in the program, why you wish to pursue the program at WVU, how the program will help you reach your career goals, and your business-related research interest (Economics or Accounting for the 2025-2026 academic year). 
    • Explain your general research interests and identify 3 DBA faculty with whom you would be interested in working.
  • Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and/or universities.
  • International applicants must meet the WVU requirement of English language proficiency. Learn more about international graduate applicant requirements.
    • All grade and/or score reports received are subject to verification.  Additional documents may be requested after initial evaluation of a student’s admission application.

Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid

The University provides a comprehensive approach to helping you finance your education. Learn more on the WVU Financial Aid Website.

Tuition and fees are usually not the only educational expenses you may have while pursuing a degree. You may have other costs such as books, supplies, and living expenses. Visit the Estimate Costs and Aid webpage to estimate and plan for other potential expenses.

Students are encouraged to:
  • File the application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the June deadline to determine eligibility for funding and scholarships.
  • Inquire with your employer about potential financial support for continuing your education.
Tuition per credit hour is listed on the page of your program of interest. Please note, tuition and fees are reviewed and subject to change at the start of each academic year.

Connect with an Admissions Coach

Ann Clayton Online Admissions Coach

(304) 293-0915 ann.clayton@mail.wvu.edu

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Careers and Employment

Doctorate of Business Administration graduates are highly sought after by employers due to their advanced knowledge, research skills, and expertise in business administration. The career outlook for DBA graduates is generally positive, with a wide range of job opportunities available in various fields.

Overall, the career outlook for DBA graduates is strong, with many opportunities for growth and advancement in various industries. The demand for highly-skilled business professionals continues to grow, making the DBA degree a valuable investment for those seeking to further their careers in the field of business administration.

Career Paths

  • Executive Leadership: DBA graduates may be well-suited for executive leadership positions such as CEO, COO, or CFO in organizations across different industries.
  • Consulting: DBA graduates may work as consultants for businesses, advising on areas such as strategy, operations, and finance.
  • Academia: DBA graduates may choose to pursue careers in academia as professors or researchers, working in business schools and universities.
  • Government and Non-profit Organizations: DBA graduates may also find opportunities in government agencies and non-profit organizations, where they can use their expertise to drive policy and social change

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Get in Touch

The WVU Online team is here for you during your online learning journey. We can help you navigate the curriculum of your program of interest, understand the application process, and keep you posted on upcoming events and deadlines.

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