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Earning A Doctor Of Business Administration: What To Know Before You Enroll

Updated: Feb 16, 2023, 7:08am

Successful business executives are defined by their ability to solve pressing, real-world issues with accurate data and precise strategy. If you’re a business professional looking to enhance your career, a doctor of business administration (DBA) can offer a robust intellectual framework for navigating industry trends and organizational management.

Geared toward business leaders of the future, a DBA is a terminal business administration degree that offers immersive training in business analytics and applied research methods. The following guide outlines the details of doctoral programs in business administration and potential career pathways for graduates.

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What Does a Doctor of Business Administration Entail?

A DBA is a doctoral degree catered to business professionals with management experience and a master’s degree. DBA programs are research-oriented and train students to use critical, analytical methods to explore questions and develop solutions in their respective organizations and the field at large.

Some DBA programs are offered exclusively online. Others require in-person attendance through recurring weekend residencies. Most programs begin in the fall, but you should check in with your prospective school to see if it offers rolling admissions and enrollment. DBA degrees tend to be flexible and accommodate the schedules of students with full-time jobs.

Is a DBA the Same as a Ph.D. in Business Administration?

A DBA is different from a Ph.D. in business administration, and many institutions offer both degrees.

Both of these degrees require students to produce original research. DBA programs usually run part time and bolster working professionals’ methodological skills and problem-solving capacities.

A Ph.D. in business administration is a full-time, research-intensive degree geared toward students seeking academic careers—often in teaching or scholarship—or non-academic roles that require expertise in research techniques.

Doctorate of Business Administration Admission Requirements

The admissions process for a DBA program is relatively standard, though precise requirements may vary among programs. To qualify for a DBA or Ph.D. program, prospective students should hold a master’s degree and prepare to submit the following:

• Application fee
• Transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Additional essay prompt(s)

Applicants may have to complete admissions interviews, as well. Note that standardized tests like the GMAT or GRE are more commonly required for Ph.D. programs than DBA programs.

Courses in a Doctor of Business Administration Program

Most DBA programs entail about 60 credits, covering core class requirements, research methods credits and development classes for a research project. Depending on the program’s instruction format, classes can be offered in person or online via asynchronous or synchronous modalities.

A Ph.D. also requires about 60 credits beyond the master’s level. Ph.D. students must typically declare a concentration in an area such as accounting, finance, organizational behavior or international business. This focus area determines a Ph.D. student’s course trajectory. Given the interactive and collaborative nature of this research degree, Ph.D. students should expect to complete a residency as part of their program.

Note that in addition to credit requirements, DBA and Ph.D. programs typically require dissertations and comprehensive exam(s) in students’ selected topics. Most students complete DBA requirements in three years. The Ph.D. option takes about five years to complete. That said, completion times vary considerably among doctoral programs.

Core courses in a business administration doctoral program might include the following.

Financial Reporting

A course in financial reporting may cover the basics of financial accounting and forecasting. Students learn to use accounting analytics tools and discuss the value and perceived impact of reporting for a business.

Accounting and Multinational Enterprises

This course explores international accounting through a multinational, cultural lens. Studying content related to foreign transactions, taxation and financial statements, students review an array of accounting standards in an increasingly globalized world.

Sociology of Corporate Culture

This course explores sociological research on family dynamics, societal customs and contemporary consumerism patterns in the marketplace. Coursework covers ethnography and other social scientific methods to inspect an organization’s hierarchies, networks and cultural norms.

Managing, Organizing and Negotiating for Value

Negotiation is a central topic in this course. Relying on both theory and practical tactics, students come to understand the value of negotiation in individual, multiparty and even international scenarios.

Careers for a Doctorate of Business Administration

Your career options depend in part on which type of doctorate you pursue. DBA graduates are generally equipped for leadership and executive-level positions. For Ph.D. graduates, roles in academia are common, as are non-academic jobs that require specialized research training.

The following roles may suit candidates with a doctorate in business administration.

Management Analyst

Median Annual Salary: $95,290 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): +10% Job Description: Management analysts review organizational workflows and make recommendations to streamline business operations. These professionals advise managers by discussing business solutions that drive greater profits and various ways to cut costs.

Market Research Analyst

Median Annual Salary: $68,230 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): +13% Job Description : Market research analysts assess and review current market trends to predict the potential profits of various products. These professionals collect and analyze data, including quantitative measures of demographics and qualitative consumer feedback, via interviews and focus groups.

Median Annual Salary: $80,840 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): +8% Job Description: Professors design coursework for college and university students. They typically focus on a particular subject matter, industry or discipline, such as economics or marketing. Professors may also have industry experience outside academia that informs their teaching. Learn more with our guide on how to become a professor .

Median Annual Salary: $113,940 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): +6% Job Description: Relying on data and macro-level market trends, economists analyze issues related to supplies, goods and services. Economists specialize in quantitative analysis and may collect their own data. They can also rely on secondary data to study large-scale market patterns. Research partnerships with external organizations, government agencies and think tanks are common in this role.

Chief Executives

Median Annual Salary: $189,520 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): -8% Job Description: Executive-level positions entail developing big-picture policies that help businesses remain profitable. C-level leaders in larger organizations are often involved in strategy and goal-setting. In smaller organizations, executives may also contribute to the hiring process and day-to-day logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Business Administration (FAQs)

Is a doctor of business administration the same as a ph.d..

No. A doctor of business administration (DBA) is a degree tailored to the needs of full-time business executives. A Ph.D. program is designed for individuals seeking careers as researchers and professors in academia.

Is a DBA better than an MBA?

Not necessarily. A DBA is a top-level business degree that builds on MBA degree coursework and applied experiences in the workplace. DBA programs are usually intended to be the next step for MBA students.

Can I earn a DBA without an MBA?

Yes. Most doctorate programs require a master’s degree but not necessarily an MBA. Students with an MBA, however, are prepared for the training and expertise that comes at the doctorate level.

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Ian (he/him) is a contributing writer and a communications professional. He holds a master’s degree in sociology, and currently, he a is a doctoral candidate completing his dissertation.

• January 28, 2022
• Education Advice

Doctorate In Business Administration Salary

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Earning the title of doctor is only one of the many benefits associated with a Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) degree. Upon earning this degree, you will attain the highest level of education in the business administration field . However, the path towards a DBA is not an easy one. According to official data from the U.S. Census Bureau , only about 2% of adults attained a doctorate in 2020, and an even smaller percentage of that are people who have a DBA. So, this makes doctorates quite rare and valuable.

If you are intrigued about pursuing a doctorate in business administration but are unsure of whether it is worth committing your time and energy to it, let’s have a look at some of the most important aspects you should have in mind while making your decision. Throughout this article, we will go through some of the many benefits of DBAs, such as job prospects, the doctorate in business administration salary, and career options you would have.

DBA Job Outlook

Doctorate degrees are of the highest level of academic achievement, and as such, are accompanied by scholarly respect and an improvement in one’s employment prospects.

Business administration is a stable career option, as the projected job outlook for business and financial operations occupations is estimated to grow about 8% throughout the decade . However, this percentage can vary depending on what position within the business administration field you decide to pursue. Of course, with a DBA, you will have a higher level of education than most candidates, so this gives you an extra edge in the job market.

DBA Degree Median Salary

Aside from the increased employability, the doctorate in business administration salary is another benefit of pursuing such a degree. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , in 2021, doctoral degree holders earned a median weekly salary of $1,885, much higher than the average for master degree holders who earned $1,545 or bachelor with $1,305.

What Can You Do with a Doctorate in Business Administration?

When you pursue a doctorate of business administration degree, you are not following only one path that will lead you to a specific career. Instead, the degree opens doors to a variety of jobs, and each one has a high average salary for doctor of business administration. From positions related to management to ones in education, economics, and marketing research, continue reading as we go through the top careers, their job prospects, and the DBA degree median salary for each one.

As an economist, you would be responsible for helping create economic and financial forecasts and models for the company. Some of your primary duties would be to analyze large amounts of data, develop economic policies, conduct market research, and to create financial reports for the company’s executives. Following this path can one day lead you to the position of chief business officer or even senior economist.

Job prospects and salary

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projected that the employment of economists would grow faster than the average for all occupations. The growth rate for this position in the job market is 13%, resulting in about 1,600 job openings each year over the decade.

You will not be dealing with money only on the job. As an economist, you can expect to earn around $108,911 per year . At the beginning of your career, salaries can be lower as you make about $64,373 per year, but with time and hard work, the salary can rise all the way to $184,265 per year.

Management analyst

After obtaining your DBA, you could use your knowledge and skills as a management analyst. In this position, you would be responsible for planning and leading operations that assist the company’s management in ensuring employees work efficiently. Furthermore, some of your daily tasks include collecting and organizing information related to issues that arise within the company, finding solutions to those issues, conducting organizational studies on employees, and examining financial data. You would also have to observe the staff and communicate effectively with them to ensure the implemented policies, systems, and procedures function successfully.

Management analysts continue to be high in demand as their employment is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations at around 14% from 2020 to 2030 . This growth rate will result in 99,400 openings for management analysts each year, and each one will be paid, on average, around $81,541 annually .

Earning a DBA means that you have expert-level knowledge in the business administration field and are eligible to work as a professor teaching, guiding, and training students who also want to pursue this specialization. While working as a professor, your duties include designing curriculum plans for your classes, providing tutoring and academic counseling to students, assessing the students, and keeping records of their work.

The world can always use having skilled people who are willing to share their knowledge with others. That is why the job outlook for the professor occupation is around 12% . This percentage is higher than the average of all other professions.

If that was not enough reason to convince you of how excellent this profession is, let us have a look at a professor’s DBA degree salary. In the United States, professors make around $113,111 per year , although, with experience in certain schools, you can earn up to $221,883 per year.

Market research analyst

Another career you should consider is that of a market research analyst. In this position, you would be responsible for observing customer preferences and gathering statistical data to help clients with their decision-making process about various products and their fees. The majority of market research analysts also have to deal with other duties related to analyzing data and trends, as well as utilizing different strategies and techniques so that they surpass their competition.

One of the fastest-growing jobs in this list with a projected 22% growth rate is the market research analyst position. There will be around 96,000 openings for such roles each year throughout this decade, as the profession continues to grow much faster than most other occupations.

In the United States, the national average salary for a Market Research Analyst is estimated to be $60,280 per year . Reports show that the salary can range from $40,580 per year to $89,545 per year.

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C-level executive

You can also pursue the position of C-level executive and work as an employee at the top of the company’s administration team. With this career choice, you will be the one who helps make key decisions within the company. The responsibilities of a Chief-level executive are mostly related to strategies and management, as they have to deal with strategic planning by collaborating with other c-level executives, collecting valuable information by conducting research and generating reports- which are later on used for decision-making.

Top executive jobs that help run facilities are still in demand as the position of a c-level executive is projected to grow 8% from 2020 to 2030, resulting in about 247,100 openings each year.

Other reports show that the average annual salary for c-level executives is $59,255. The exact salary depends on the establishment where you work and the experience you have gathered, as it can range from $34,530 per year to $101,683 per year.

Department chair

With a DBM, you will also be eligible for the position of a department chair, which the dean assigns to manage an academic department by examining all operations related to it and its connection to the whole facility. As a department chair, you will be functioning as the link between your department’s staff and the institution. You would oversee the hiring process, help resolve conflicts, and supervise the team’s work to ensure it is in accordance with the general administrative goals set by the executive board.

The role of the department chair is evaluated to have a job prospect in the same percentage as the average for all other occupations. So, the estimated growth of department chair positions throughout this decade is 8%. In addition to this percentage, expect to be paid around $88,080 per year to deal with a department chair’s responsibilities.

As one of the key members of an institution of higher learning’s executive leadership team, the position of Dean is tasked with providing administrative and academic guidance for their schools. When working in this position, you will serve as an advocate of the college or university’s mission and goals and are responsible for informing students about the admission and campus of the institution, as well as supporting the students and their social programs.

The post of a dean is one of the many postsecondary education administration positions expected to keep a stable growth rate of 8% throughout the decade. Pair that with an average salary of $99,266 per year with the possibility of it reaching $183,251 per year, and you have got yourself a lucrative and bright career ahead of you.

Last but certainly not least, working as a chancellor means you would be the head of a higher education institution. You would supervise, lead, and mentor the staff and students so that you all work together to help the institute achieve its intended goals. Other customary tasks deal with formulating educational plans and programs, managing the administration board, plan various programs related to academic functions within the institution.

The career path of a chancellor is steady, as reports by the Burau of Labor Institution state that the average growth rate for positions related to postsecondary education administration is around 8% , which is as fast as the average for other career options.

Another steady aspect of this job is the salary, with an estimated median salary of $87,186 which can go up to $154,238 over the years—working as a chancellor is a safe choice for your future.

All in all, pursuing a doctorate in any field and committing so much of your time to the program is a tough decision to make. But, if you are certain you want to become an expert in business administration, secure important positions, and enjoy a lucrative career, then go for a DBA and place the title of “Dr.” before your name.

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Best Doctorates in Business Administration: Top PhD Programs, Career Paths, and Salaries

Many professionals are looking for ways to stand out amongst their peers and secure employment in today’s competitive job market. One strategy to make yourself a highly attractive candidate to employers is to advance your education. This article discusses the best PhDs in Business Administration so you can land one of the best business administration jobs.

You’ll discover the ten best programs in the United States to earn a PhD in Business Administration, including online programs accessible anywhere in the world. You’ll also learn about some of the best business administration jobs, their salaries, and job outlooks. Finally, you’ll learn the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about what it’s like to get a business administration PhD.

Find your bootcamp match

What is a phd in business administration.

A PhD in business administration is a research-based degree that trains doctoral students to contribute to the field of business education by studying and testing business theory. Students in doctorate business administration programs conduct research and use theory to solve problems in the business world. A PhD degree is a terminal degree, meaning it is the highest achievable degree in the field of study. It is typically awarded to a university professor who conducts research that contributes to an institution’s academic resources.

How to Get Into a Business Administration PhD Program: Admission Requirements

The most important requirements for acceptance into a business administration PhD program is usually a Master’s of Business Administration (MBA),or in some cases an undergraduate degree. Professional experience is also sometimes required, depending on the institution. Some programs may have additional admission requirements such as proof of English proficiency for international students.

Doctoral degree in business administration programs require proof of excellence in preceding levels of education. For instance, a minimum 3.0 GPA is necessary for admission to most programs. You’ll also need to provide relevant documentation including transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose.

PhD in Business Administration Admission Requirements

• Graduate Application for Admission
• Official transcripts from previous institutions
• GMAT or GRE Scores
• Official proof of degree(s) from previous institution(s)
• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of recommendation
• TOEFL or IELTS scores for international students

Business Administration PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Business Administration?

It is very hard to get into a PhD program in business administration because most institutions only admit at most 5 candidates per year. These limited slots are dependent on funding and make programs very competitive.

To get into a PhD program, a student should have a high GPA, high scores in standardized tests, a lot of research experience, a business background, and a compelling statement of purpose expressing intent to conduct research that will be beneficial to the university.

How to Get Into the Best Universities

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Best PhDs in Business Administration: In Brief

Best Universities for Business Administration PhDs: Where to Get a PhD in Business Administration

If you’re wondering where to get a PhD in business administration, we have compiled an in-depth list of possibilities. The following list of the best universities for business administration PhDs are known for their high standard of academic excellence as well as their accomplished faculty members and cutting-edge resources. Let’s dive in.

Founded in 1885, Arizona State is a public research institution with one of the largest enrollments in the country. The Graduate College offers over 400 degree options in business, engineering, and technology, among other fields. The world-renowned W.P Carey Business School offers a doctoral business program with many areas of specialization.

PhD in Business Administration 

Arizona State University’s PhD in Business Administration with a concentration in management  is designed to give scholars the tools to assume diverse roles at leading research institutions. There is an emphasis on developing research and teaching skills. It is a two-part program, with a 12 credit hour foundational requirement and a minimum 30 credit hour advanced requirement.

PhD in Business Administration Overview

• Program Length: 5 years
• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 5% to 10%
• Tuition and Fees: $32,632/year (in-state); $44,456/year (out-state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Fellowships, awards, employment, work-study, grants, and scholarships
• 3.0-4.00 grade point average in the last 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours of undergraduate coursework 
• Graduate admission application
• Non-refundable application fee
• Official transcripts 
• TOEFL or IELTS scores for non-native English speakers 
• GMAT or GRE scores
• Official degree certificate for some countries 

Drexel University is a private research institution. A large urban university, it currently has over 24,000 students in more than 70 undergraduate and more than 120 postgraduate programs. LeBow College of Business offers two PhDs: business and economics.

Doctorate in Business Administration

Drexel’s Doctorate in Business Administration offers senior managers training in scientific methodology that will prepare them to tackle complex industry challenges and academic careers. It makes use of Drexel’s 120 years of experiential learning to provide a solid foundation in applied research and analysis. Students are required to complete a minimum of 60 credits within a period of two and a half years (10 consecutive quarters) for the DBA degree. 

Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) Overview

• Program Length: 2.5 years
• Acceptance Rate: N/A
• Tuition and Fees: $2,000/credit hour
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Assistantships, Fellowships, Awards 

Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) Admission Requirements

• Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for undergraduate coursework and minimum GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale for graduate-level coursework
• Official transcripts
• Standardized Tests Score GMAT/GRE 
• TOEFL or IELTS scores for non-native English speakers
• Statement of purpose 
• Letters of recommendation 

Duke University is a highly competitive private research institution. It’s ranked among the top universities in the world with an acceptance rate of 5.7 percent and offers one of the best PhDs in Business Administration. Duke’s current enrollment is approximately 17,000 students with around 10,000 postgraduates. 

PhD Program in Business Administration

Duke’s PhD in Business Administration offered by the Fuqua School of Business prepares students for academic careers at leading educational institutions and business careers that require advanced analytical and research skills. 

The program offers various concentration areas including accounting, marketing management, and decision sciences. To graduate, you must complete a minimum of 79 credits or 65 credits for joint degree students. 

PhD Program in Business Administration Overview

• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 2% to 8%
• Tuition and Fees: $17,755/year, typically covered by the university
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Stipends, assistantships, tuition coverage, fee coverage, coverage of health insurance premiums, and fully funded training program appointments.

PhD Program in Business Administration Admission Requirements

• 3 letters of recommendation
• Competitive GMAT or GRE scores 
• TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo test scores for non-native English speakers
• Undergraduate GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Statement of purpose

Fordham University is a private Jesuit institution with campuses in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Westchester. It is made up of four undergraduate and six postgraduate colleges with over 15,300 students. The Gabelli School of Business offers a flagship two-year business program in leadership and management for aspiring business leaders.

PhD in Business

Fordham’s doctoral business degree is a full-time study program that prepares students for careers in academia. It offers various fields of study including finance, management, information technology, marketing, and business law. Upon admission, you’ll select one of two interdisciplinary curriculum tracks: capital markets or strategy and decision-making.

PhD in Business Overview

• Tuition and Fees: Funding decisions are part of the admissions process
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Tuition remission, stipends, and healthcare

PhD in Business Admission Requirements

• Master’s in a relevant field such as economics, mathematics, finance, etc 
• Minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale 
• Minimum GMAT score of 700 or minimum GRE scores of 160 for both verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning and minimum score of 5 in analytical writing 
• Minimum TOEFL Score of 105 or minimum IELTS Score of 7.5 for non-native English speakers
• Application fee of $75

George Washington University is the largest post-secondary institution in the District of Columbia. There are currently over 11,000 undergraduate and 15,500 postgraduate students in attendance, with over 70 areas of study. Its postgraduate programs span political studies, arts, law, education, business, health, and engineering. 

Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration

This program prepares candidates for successful careers as scholars at top research institutions or for careers as contributors to the business community. There is a two-year pre-candidacy stage during which students complete coursework and a comprehensive examination, and one year long a dissertation defense stage. Students must complete 45 credits, 39 in the first two years and six in the final year.

Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration Overview

• Program Length: 3 years
• Tuition and Fees: $1,885/credit hour
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Tuition waivers, graduate stipends or fellowships

Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration Admission Requirements

• Master’s degree in a related field is preferred
• Minimum TOEFL score of 100, minimum IELTS score of 7.0, or minimum Duolingo score of 110 for non-native English speakers
• Application fee of $80

Harvard University is the oldest university in the US and a member of the prestigious Ivy League. It currently enrolls around 20,000 students, with approximately 6,000 undergraduates and 14,000 postgraduates. The Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Science offers a variety of graduate programs in a wide range of fields from health and sciences to engineering and computer science. 

PhD in Business Administration

The PhD in Business Administration is offered jointly by the Harvard Business School and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. The program has five areas of study: Marketing, Management, Strategy, Accounting and Technology, and Operations management. The coursework consists of a minimum of 13 doctoral-level semester courses and two MBA semester courses.

• Acceptance Rate: 4%
• Tuition and Fees: $52,546 full tuition
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Grants, stipends, fellowships, teaching fellowships, traineeships, research assistantships, and research funding
• Exemplary GMAT or GRE scores
• Minimum TOEFL score of 100 or minimum IELTS score of 7.5 for non-native English speakers
• Optional writing sample 
• Application fee of $105

Oregon State University is a large public university with over 32,000 students enrolled in over 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The Oregon State Graduate School offers numerous programs for graduate students in disciplines such as agriculture, business, and education. The College of Business offers a business administration PhD designed to prepare students for high-level careers in business.

The College of Business offers a PhD in Business Administration with opportunities for collaborative research. You learn how to conduct research in management and marketing as well as in strategy and entrepreneurship. Students are required to complete at least 18 credits of courses in research methods and statistics, 32 in supporting programs, and 24 in strategy, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

• Program Length: 5.7 years
• Acceptance Rate: Between approximately 13% and 17%
• Tuition and Fees: $498/credit hour (in state); $1,046/credit hour (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Scholarships and fellowships
• Master’s degree
• Minimum GPA of a B average on most recent degree
• Minimum GMAT score of 600 or equivalent GRE score. GMAT preferred. 
• Minimum TOEFL score of 91 with subscores of at least 22 on each section or minimum  IELTS score of 7 for non-native English speakers
• Application fee of $75 domestic students or $85 for international students
• Personal statement 
• Resume 

Syracuse University is a competitive private school located in a mid-size city in New York State. Current enrollment is at over 21,000 students across 13 colleges. There are over 244 professional development programs with around 4,000 masters and 100 doctoral students.

The Whitman School of Management’s PhD in Business Administration is focused on developing teaching and research skills. Candidates learn the foundations of marketing, economics, logistics, information technology, and operations management and complete their degree by writing a dissertation. To graduate, students have to complete 72 credits, 42 in coursework, six in research, 24 earned through work on a dissertation. 

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• Program Length: 5-6 years
• Tuition and Fees: $1,802/credit hour
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Tuition waiver for up to 24 credits, stipends, health insurance, research grants, and travel funding 

PhD in Business Administration Admission Requirement

• Personal statement
• Minimum TOEFL score of 100
• Master’s degree preferred 

UMGC is a public university that focuses on online education across all programs and courses. It’s one of the largest distance-learning institutions in the world with an enrollment of over 90,000 online students. It has over 120 undergraduate and postgraduate programs including business administration and management. UMGC was recognized by CEO Magazine as one of the best schools to get a Doctorate of Business Administration in 2022.

Doctor of Business Administration

UMGC’s PhD in Business Administration is designed for executive-level business professionals looking to achieve their career goals. The educational experience emphasizes organizational leadership and strategic thinking that can be applied in the business world. 

Students are required to complete at least 48 credits including three prerequisite course credits, 36 core course credits, and 12 dissertation credits. Students must attain at least a B grade in each course to advance to the next course.

Doctor of Business Administration Overview

• Program Length: Average 4 years, maximum 7 years
• Tuition and Fees: $1,087/credit
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Tuition assistance, scholarships, grants, federal financial aid, and military benefits

Doctor of Business Administration Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Personal Statement
• 2 letters of recommendation
• Minimum TOEFL score of 79, minimum IELTS score of 6.5, or minimum EIKEN grade of Pre-1 for non-native English speakers

University of Washington is one of the flagship public institutions in Washington state. A member of the prestigious Association of American Universities, it is particularly known for its engineering, medical and scientific research. It enrolls around 50,000 students,12,000 of them in graduate degree programs. 

PhD Program in Business Administration. 

The Foster School of Business offers a doctorate degree designed to empower scholars to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the business field. Prospective students with professional experience who are interested in academic careers will find this program particularly useful. The program is offered on a full-time basis with seven areas of specialization: information systems, finance, and management, marketing. 

• Program Length: Average 4 to 5 years
• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 3%
• Tuition and Fees: N/A
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Tuition waivers, teaching and research assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships
• Undergraduate and master's degrees
• Application fee
• 3 letters of recommendations

Can You Get a PhD in Business Administration Online?

Yes, you can get a PhD in Business Administration online by attending a high-quality institution that offers online graduate degrees. The best institutions with online business administration degrees include Drexel University, University of Maryland Global Campus, Liberty University, Florida National University, and Temple University. These institutions have the right resources to offer online doctorate degree programs that rival in-person programs.

Best Online PhD Programs in Business Administration

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Business Administration?

It usually takes between two and a half and seven years to complete a PhD in Business Administration, depending on the student and the program. Many of the best PhDs in Business Administration require five years of study, the first three years spent on coursework, and the last two dedicated to writing a dissertation.

However, PhDs can be completed in as little as two and a half years, as is the case at Drexel University. It’s really up to you how much time you want to dedicate to earning this advanced degree and how long it takes you to comprehend the advanced coursework.

Is a PhD in Business Administration Hard?

Yes, a PhD in business administration is hard. Because PhDs are designed to prepare students for careers in academia, courses are structured to teach research skills to scholars who then apply these skills when they choose a field of study.

Upon selection of this specialization, students focus on a topic of research that they write a dissertation on. PhD programs not only have rigorous courses, but they require intensive research and defense of this research.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Business Administration?

On average, it costs $12,171 per year to get a PhD in Business Administration at a public university and $25,776 per year at a private university, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The best institutions offering a PhDs in Business Administration typically have costs between approximately $1,000 and $1,500 per credit hour.

Online degrees are often less expensive than on-campus or even low-residency programs. Whatever route you choose for your business administration PhD, there are various financial aid avenues that can help offset the cost of earning a PhD in Business Administration.

How to Pay for a PhD in Business Administration: PhD Funding Options

PhD funding options that students can use to pay for a PhD in Business Administration include tuition waivers, tuition assistance, teaching assistantships, research fellowships, rates and discounts, scholarships, grants, federal financial aid, and military and veterans benefits as well as interest-free monthly payment plans.

If the financial burden of education is prohibitive, you can always seek support from endowment funds available at many institutions. For instance, Harvard, Duke, Drexel, and Syracuse often fund high-achieving students pursuing PhDs.

Best Online Master’s Degrees

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What Is the Difference Between a Business Administration Master’s Degree and PhD?

The difference between a business administration master’s degree and PhD lies in program design and purpose. A master’s degree program provides training for students who want to pursue a successful career as a business leader. PhD programs teach research skills that empower students to study real-world challenges and develop scientific solutions in academic careers.

Therefore, while master’s programs focus on cultivating leadership skills helpful for securing executive positions, PhDs offer research experience necessary for success in academia. Masters programs are also generally shorter than PhD programs. Masters usually require two to three years of study while PhDs take around three to five years to complete, potentially even longer.

Both degrees have minimum credit requirements for graduation, but a Master in Business Administration culminates in a thesis, while a PhD in Business Administration culminates in a dissertation. PhDs programs are also typically somewhat more rigorous as this is the terminal degree in the field.

Master’s vs PhD in Business Administration Job Outlook

The Master’s in Business Administration job outlook is good. There are many potential high-paying and interesting jobs you can get with this degree such as computer and information systems manager, medical and health services manager, and human resources manager. Professions such as management analyst and accountant also require MBAs.

The PhD in Business Administration job outlook is also great. If you want to be an executive, economist, or analyst a PhD can help you achieve your goal. Also, because of the emphasis on research and education, PhD holders are equally prepared to become post-secondary education administrators, training and development managers, and professors.

Difference in Salary for Business Administration Master’s vs PhD

The average salary of a professional with a Master’s in Business Administration is $92,000, while the average salary of a business administration PhD holder is $101,000, according to PayScale. This difference in salary can be attributed to the types of careers graduates of these different degrees are qualified for. A PhD holder is likely to have better job prospects than a master’s degree holder.

Nevertheless, the salary difference is not huge. Many companies consider candidates with master’s degrees for top executive positions in business. Research-based academic institutions prefer to hire PhD holders to spearhead research projects.

Related Business Administration Degrees

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Why You Should Get a PhD in Business Administration

You should get a PhD in business administration because it gives you the opportunity to explore your passion for business at the highest level. With a PhD, you can delve into specific areas of research in business that benefit the field at large and even potentially your own organization.

You will gain the skills and expertise to approach business with a practical mindset rather than a theoretical one. A business management PhD gives you a competitive edge when applying for executive-level corporate leadership positions because it shows you are committed to the advancement of the field.

Reasons for Getting a PhD in Business Administration

• Better Job Opportunities. Most jobs in business and management require a degree in business or a related field. Therefore, most people entering the job market today have at least a bachelor’s degree . Master’s degrees are also becoming more common. A PhD sets you apart from other job candidates and improves your career prospects.
• Higher Salaries. According to PayScale, a business administration PhD holder on average earns $9,000 more than a master’s degree holder. Most jobs attainable with a PhD offer higher salaries than those attainable with a master’s degree. If you want to earn more, try pursuing a PhD with a specialization like business management.
• Achieve a rewarding career. You might be interested in an area like business ethics, corporate social responsibility, or nonprofit management. If so, pursuing a PhD in Business and specializing in an area you’re passionate about can lead to a more fulfilling career.
• Hone your skills. A PhD in Business Administration will teach you strategies for leading people in the business world. You’ll gain special skills by tackling research projects and will be empowered to make an impact as a business leader.

Getting a PhD in Business Administration: Business Administration PhD Coursework

Getting a PhD in business administration prepares students to solve complex business challenges. So, it’s no surprise that most of the courses required deal with strategy and research. Core business administration PhD coursework covers research methods in management, strategic management, organizational behavior, business leadership, and data analytics in practice.

Research Methods in Managementment

This core course is the backbone of a business administration PhD because it lays the foundation for effective research. It involves the review and evaluation of the performance of management research strategies. It trains students to interpret both qualitative and quantitative research methods and apply business research tools when advising organizations.

Strategic Management

Strategic management teaches the analysis and implementation of strategy. Students develop strategic and systemic problem-solving skills that will help them excel as strategic leaders at top businesses and organizations. This course prepares anyone who takes it for corporate success in both the public and private sectors.

Organizational Behavior

Organizational behavior is the study of people and groups in organizations, and the role of organizations in shaping the social and economic life of a society. Subtopics you’ll learn about in this course include power and influence, leadership, organizational identity, and negotiation. Essentially, this course helps students understand how to interact with people so they can make businesses operate effectively.

Business Leadership

Business leadership is the ability to manage a company so that it achieves its goals. Being a strong leader requires decisive action when necessary, as well as the ability to inspire others to perform at their highest capacity.

Business leadership as taught in a business administration PhD context prepares students to take charge of business operations, steer employees to work efficiently, and enable organizations to meet their business goals.

Data Analytics in Practice

This course involves the review and refinement of the quantitative methods necessary for effective leadership. Doctoral candidates explore data mining and forecasting and predictive models that enable evidence-based decision-making for senior-level professionals. This course enables business professionals to give recommendations for strengthening business intelligence.

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How to Get a PhD in Business Administration: Doctoral Program Requirements

Doctoral program requirements to get a PhD in Business Administration include advancement to candidacy, coursework completion, research requirements, examination excellence, and completion of a dissertation. In addition, unless it’s an online program, scholars might be required to fulfill normal residency. Let’s find out more.

Admission to a business administration PhD program does not guarantee a degree. You must prove to your department that you qualify to work on a dissertation. Most departments require you to pass a preliminary exam before attaining candidacy. This exam is typically conducted at the end of the first or second year of study. 

Doctoral students have to attain a minimum number of credits to graduate with a PhD in Business Administration. Those with master's degrees often have fewer classes than those with Bachelor’s degrees. Also, since PhD candidates often pursue careers in academia, they might be required to teach undergraduate classes.

PhD students start working on research projects with professors within their first two years of study. This educational stage develops research skills that are important during the next educational stage, which focuses on original research and writing. Before candidates start working on their dissertation, a committee of professors must vet their proposal.

Most research-based institutions require PhD students to work closely with university faculty and other students. This cohort model allows for the full benefit of the educational and professional opportunities available through the university. Scholars should attend classes regularly to gain experience with equipment and material, and to network with their colleagues. 

Dissertation defense is usually the final step in the process of getting a PhD. Doctoral students must submit a completed dissertation to a special committee for review. Only if the committee approves the dissertation does the candidate receive their PhD in Business Administration. 

Potential Careers With a Business Administration Degree

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PhD in Business Administration Salary and Job Outlook

PhD in Business Administration salary and job outlook is very good because holders of this PhD are eligible for important jobs with lucrative salaries. For instance, C-level executive jobs pay around $100,000 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. For those who want to pursue careers in academia, salaries of DBA holders are significantly above average.

The job outlook for business administration doctorate holders is above average, which suggests an increase in job opportunities over the course of the next decade. For instance, jobs for information system managers, one of the highest-paid roles for someone with a PhD in Business Administration, will increase by eleven percent. Jobs for top business executives will grow by eight percent over the next 10 years, according to the BLS.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Business Administration?

With one of the best PhDs in Business Administration, you can pursue a career in academia as a professor of business at a leading research university. Alternatively, you can pursue a career in the private sector. If you have a passion for finding solutions to real-world business challenges, you can become an analyst.

The skills acquired through the pursuit of a PhD are applicable in every industry and discipline. So, the job opportunities you can pursue are limitless. Considering your added specialized skills and experience, you will be equipped to successfully manage most businesses. If you choose to start a business, you’ll have the know-how to ensure it thrives. The job market is your oyster.

Best Jobs with a PhD in Business Administration

• C-Level executive
• Research analyst
• Business consultant
• Entrepreneur

What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Business Administration?

The average PhD in Business Administration salary is $101,000 per year according to PayScale . On the upper end, information systems managers with PhDs earn around $160,000 per year, while on the lower end, university professors take home around $80,000 per year. The salary of a business administration PhD holder also depends on many other factors including industry, company, experience, and more.

Highest-Paying Business Administration Jobs for PhD Grads

Best Business Administration Jobs with a Doctorate

The best business administration jobs with a doctorate include information systems manager, financial manager, human resources director, business economist, and top executive. All these jobs guarantee a lucrative professional career. These positions also offer an array of challenges and opportunities to learn, ensuring you’ll never be bored at your job.

An information system manager, also known as an IT manager, is the person responsible for the effective operation and security of all computer systems, hardware, and software used by a business. IT managers analyze an entity’s computer needs, recommend upgrades, install and maintain hardware, and ensure the security of a business’ data.

• Salary with a Business Administration PhD: $159,010
• Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 482,000
• Highest-Paying States: New York, California, and New Jersey

Financial managers ensure the financial health of a business or an organization. Primarily, they create financial reports, manage investments, and develop plans for a business to achieve its long-term financial goals. Other duties include monitoring financial details to ensure compliance with legal requirements, supervising staff, and analyzing market trends to find expansion opportunities. 

• Salary with a Business Administration PhD: $131,710
• Job Outlook: 17% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 681,700
• Highest-Paying States: New York, Delaware, and New Jersey

A human resource director is a senior HR professional responsible for executive decisions pertaining to policies, strategies, and practices. Primarily, they direct administrative functions in a business or organization. Other duties include acting as the link between management and employees and overseeing recruitment. 

• Salary with a Business Administration PhD: $126,230
• Job Outlook: 9% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 161,700
• Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, and District of Columbia

Business economists provide analysis for businesses, organizations, and governments to make optimal financial decisions. They collect and analyze data and evaluate economic issues to stay informed. Their other responsibilities include presenting research data, recommending solutions to economic problems, and writing articles for journals and publications.

• Salary with a Business Administration PhD: $105,630
• Job Outlook: 13% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 18,600
• Highest-Paying States: New York, District of Columbia, and California

Top executives are also known as C-level executives. They are responsible for making major decisions that impact the growth and success of a business or organization. They include the CEO (Chief Executive Office), CFO (Chief Financial Officer), COO (Chief Operating Office), and CIO (Chief Information Officer). Top executives execute departmental goals, procedures, and policies and oversee an organization’s activities and negotiate contracts. 

• Salary with a Business Administration PhD: $98,980 
• Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 2,704,400
• Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Hawaii, and Washington

Is a PhD in Business Administration Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Business Administration is worth it. It can make a significant improvement in your salary potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, PhD professionals across all industries make on average $110,160 annually while master’s graduates earn $76,800 and bachelor’s graduates make $78,020. This means a PhD can add $32,000 to your salary annually.

Secondly, a PhD in Business Administration gives you the opportunity to pursue more than just a career. As a PhD program graduate, you will become instrumental in finding solutions to business problems. Because of this advanced skill, you will be able to pursue a fulfilling career and take advantage of any opportunities that come your way.

Additional Reading About Business Administration

[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/business-administration/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/best-schools-for-business-administration/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/best-online-business-administration-bachelors-degrees/

PhD in Business Administration FAQ

No, a Doctor of Business Administration is not the same as a PhD, but they are only slightly different. A Doctor of Business Administration is more focused on theory, and is aimed toward teaching skills most relevant in practice of business. A PhD is a more research-oriented program. There are slight differences between a doctorate degree vs a PhD .

A PhD is best for you if your goal is to pursue a career in higher education or as a research expert in business. On the other hand, a DBA is appropriate for those who want to focus on business and organizational challenges that require research to find solutions. Either way, both doctoral degrees improve your chances in the job market.

Yes, a master’s degree is not an admission requirement for most PhD programs in the United States. However, you cannot be admitted immediately after obtaining a bachelor’s degree. You’ll need a few years of professional experience and a compelling explanation of your reason for pursuing a PhD. Keep in mind that certain institutions do only admit students with master’s degrees.

Yes, you can do a PhD while working. Most PhD programs are designed for working professionals. Depending on the program there are different options, such as part-time or full-time and online, hybrid, or on-campus. If you wish to maintain your current job while advancing your education, you can definitely find a plan that fits your schedule or consider an online degree.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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Salary Outlook for PhD in Business Degree Grads

Created by Henry Steele

By Henry Steele - May 16, 2018

Earning a Ph.D. in Business Administration will provide you with the knowledge and skills for an academic career in business administration, as well as scholarly business administration research at the collegiate level. You also will develop advanced business management knowledge that can be applied to the private sector. A Ph.D. in business administration focuses primarily on developing new theories of business management, public administration, consulting, economics and related fields.

Sponsored School(s)

If you are going to earn a doctorate in business administration, it will take a lot of time and effort. It is a full time commitment that will take at least four to five years. So it makes sense to research what your potential salary could be with this degree. This article details the following factors that may affect your salary with a Ph.D. in business administration:

• Whether you work in the public or private sector
• How many years of work experience
• Geographic location

Whether You Work in the Public or Private Sector

Generally, obtaining a master’s or doctoral degree will result in a higher salary. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports earning a master’s degree can give you an average $12,000 pay raise over a bachelor’s degree. In some cases, earning a Ph.D. will result in a premium over a master’s degree.

For example, some surveys indicate earning a master’s degree in business will net you an average lifetime pay of $3.2 million, while earning a doctorate will increase that to $3.5 million. Earning a master’s in education will net you $2.2 million in earnings over your career, and a Ph.D. in the same field will net you $2.8 million.

So we can say generally that getting a doctorate will result in a higher salary. But a major factor in how much of a salary increase you will see is whether you are working in the public or private sector.

Many professionals with a Ph.D. in business administration work in the public or educational sector, but some do work in the private sector. Below is salary information from BLS that shows the wage premium earned for a variety of business related positions in the private sector with a graduate degree over a bachelor’s degree:

• Financial manager: $78,000/$110,000
• Market research analyst: $65,000/$90,000
• Distribution manager: $62,000/$90,000
• Marketing and sales manager: $80,000/$110,000

For education administrators, we see that you can earn $23,000 more with a master’s degree over a bachelor’s degree. BLS does not provide data about Ph.D. vs master’s salaries, but we can assume there is an increase in salary by earning the higher degree.

Also, later in this article we highlight salaries by job title, and this indicates that a professional with a Ph.D. in business administration will generally earn a higher salary by working in the private sector.

Ph.D. in Business Administration Work Experience

As in all career fields, the number of years of work experience you have will influence your salary. For example, if you become a professor with your Ph.D., Payscale.com reports the median salary across the US is $87,500. But this will vary depending upon your level of experience:

• Professors with less than five years of experience earn $60,000 per year
• Professors with five to 10 years of work experience earn $71,000 per year
• Professors with 10 to 20 years of work experience earn $86,000 per year
• Professors with more than 20 years of experience earn $99,000 per year.

On the other hand, some professionals with a Ph.D. in business administration go the private business route and become CEOs. Payscale.com reports the median salary for CEOs is $164,800. This also will vary with experience:

• Less than five years experience: $120,000
• Five to 10 years of experience: $154,000
• 10 to 20 years of experience: $193,000
• More than 20 years of experience: $229,000

Ph.D. in Business Administration Geographic Location

If you are a professor in a business college with your Ph.D., you will earn a higher salary in some parts of the country than others. The national average wage for this position is $87,300, but your salary can be higher or lower depending upon if you live in these cities:

• San Francisco: +49%
• Boston: +32%
• Los Angeles: +21%
• Indianapolis: +19%
• Philadelphia: +16%
• Seattle: +15%
• Chicago: 0%
• Baltimore: -6%
• Dallas: -8%
• Houston: -11%

For general salary for Ph.D. in business administration for all job titles, these are typical salaries for some cities across the US, according to Payscale.com:

• Wilmington DE: $156,300
• Los Angeles CA: $150,500
• Louisville KY: $94,750
• Chicago IL: $120,700
• New York City: $120,000

Ph.D. in Business Administration Job Title

The last major influence on what your salary could be with a Ph.D. in business administration is job title. Depending upon whether you get a job in academia or in a private company, your salary can vary widely.

Below is a sampling of the job titles and salaries that people with this degree have; this data was pulled from Payscale.com:

• Professor, Postsecondary and Higher Education: $116,435
• Chief Information Officer: $92,717
• Regional Vice President of Operations: $159,700
• Six Sigma Black Belt Project Manager: $83,600
• Director of Analytics: $113,576
• Healthcare Administrator: $131,800
• Adjunct Professor: $59,500
• Assistant Professor: $84,100
• Associate Professor: $97,000
• Senior Risk Manager: $139,000
• Director of Operations: $81,212
• IT Manager: $153,000
• Management Consultant: $75,800

On a related note, your salary with this degree also will be influenced by any specialty you choose. Many popular Ph.D. in business programs offer specialties that may pay more than others, such as accounting, finance, information systems, general management, operations management and entrepreneurship.

The information above provides some insights about what your salary could be with a Ph.D. in business administration. There are many career directions you can go in that will definitely affect your salary. Once you have determined exactly what you want to do with the degree, you can get a better idea of the salary potential.

• Should I Get a Master’s Degree? (2015). Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2015/article/should-i-get-a-masters-degree.htm
• Ph.D. in Business Areas of Specialization. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://foster.uw.edu/academics/degree-programs/phd-program/major-areas-of-specialization/

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Highest Paying Doctorate Degrees [2024 Guide]

We’ve identified the 25 highest paying doctorate degrees. Compare salaries and job prospects.

Completing a PhD may open up doors in terms of career advancement. Plus, it may not take as long as you think to complete if you enroll in the shortest doctoral programs .

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

The following list contains the highest paying doctorate degrees along with career outlook and job growth statistics.

25 Highest Paying Doctorate Degrees

All career statistics and salary data are provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics .

Click on the area of study you’re interested in to jump to that section.

Aerospace Engineering

Chemical engineering, pharmacology, business administration, cybersecurity, electrical engineering, data science, biochemistry, information security assurance, biomedical engineering, information technology and computer science, occupational therapy, criminal justice, engineering, organic chemistry.

While all of these industries are growing, some provide better job prospects than others.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $208,000
• Job Growth: 4%

One of the more specialized high paying doctorate programs is in immunology. Immunology is the study of disease prevention and immunity. Due to the specialized nature of the study here, jobs are typically well paid and much more specific.

A person who has studied immunology may be expected to work in research or academia but is also likely to land high-paying roles within the medical industry and at hospitals. The demand for this area of expertise is also rising faster than the average job growth, meaning there should be plenty of opportunities for graduates.

A PhD in immunology is a lot of hard work and is, therefore, suited to someone who already has considerable experience working in the medical industry. Those with an academic background in medicine should consider applying for an immunology program.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $129,850
• Job Growth: 7%

Of the three main sciences, physics can be the one that is the most fruitful for taking a doctorate. People who take a PhD in physics are likely to land themselves a position as either a researcher or a professor.

There are also several other high paying positions that are possible for someone who takes this career path, including more specialized roles or becoming lead physicists and consultants.

Physics is also one of the job markets that is predicted to see a considerable amount of growth for the next 10 years. Pursuing a physics doctorate can be perfect for someone who already has experience in physics or someone who already has either a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the subject combined with some practical experience.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $118,610
• Job Growth: 3%

Aerospace engineering is a field that would likely attract those who already have a background in either science or engineering. It is one of the fastest growing industries in the world, and demand for jobs is expected to increase as the years roll by. So the length it takes to get a PhD should be taken into consideration so you can quickly enter this field during its booming growth.

The doctorate focuses on the engineering of various different types of spacecraft and can be incredibly demanding. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the salary potential for this field is as high as $171,220.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $110,860

Math may not be the glamorous subject to study at doctorate level, but it can open up a wide range of potentially lucrative career options.

Math can allow students to work in various sectors of the economy and business, and they may also work in research or as a math lecturer or professor at a top university.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $109,760
• Job Growth: 5%

Taking a doctorate in management can be a logical step in the career of someone who has a history of working in business, project management, or the economy as well as several other sectors.

Earning this doctorate can open up chief executive roles within companies and roles like chief operations officer and supply chain management. It may also lead to regional and national management roles.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $108,540

Another engineering-based field that presents doctorate students with some big money career options is chemical engineering. The field combines a number of different disciplines, including all of the sciences, math, and statistics, as well as engineering.

It is a complex doctorate to take, but the rewards may be worth the effort, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics showing salaries up to $168,960 available in this field.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $108,350
• Job Growth: 14%

One of the most popular PhDs to take is in economics. Economics is a social science that studies and theories about the production and consumption of goods and the effect that this has on society and the economy.

Taking a PhD in economics may open up a lot of doors. Working in the financial sector is usually lucrative, and a doctorate in economics can help give you an edge over competitors in what is a notoriously feisty industry. Top earners can make around $198,230 per year.

Economics analysis is a skill that is highly sought after, especially in the medical, legal, and education sectors.

While on the face of it, some people may believe that studying economics leaves you consigned to an office for the majority of your working life, the reality is that it can open up a lot of doors in a lot of different sectors. It may also provide you with a lot of travel opportunities and chances to meet new people.

A doctorate in economics may be perfect for someone who already has some experience in the field or for someone who has studied economics, math, finance, or business to a higher level and wants to take the next step in their academic and professional career.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $107,270
• Job Growth: 6%

Pharmacology is big business these days, and taking a doctorate in the subject may lead to some lucrative opportunities. It is expected that someone who wants to study pharmacology will have a background in the subject with a master’s degree being heavily preferred.

There are a lot of pre-requisites for getting onto a pharmacology doctorate program, but the Bureau of Labor Statistics is showing salaries going as high as $164,980.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $103,650

Getting a doctorate in business administration can open up a lot of doors. Students who end up taking their doctorate in business administration often end up working as leading and chief executives as well as entrepreneurs and financial advisors.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salaries for someone with a doctorate in this field can be as high as $208,000. It can be ideal for someone who has a background in business or economics who wants to take the next step in their career.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $103,590
• Job Growth: 31%

As the world of IT continues to grow, so does the demand for more and more cybersecurity. The field is one of the fastest-growing in the world, and getting a doctorate in the subject may land you a range of different high paying jobs.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, roles like IT managers can offer doctorates a salary of up to $208,000. This sector is also constantly growing, and as such, the demand and the salaries should continue to grow as time passes.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $100,830

When it comes to job demand, electrical engineering is one of the safest career paths to go down. Electrical engineering has a huge impact on our day-to-day lives.

Most of our day-to-day electrical appliances exist as a result of electrical engineering, and taking a doctorate in the field may open the door to some pretty lucrative research and project management positions. It is advised that someone who takes a PhD in electrical engineering already have practical experience in the field.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $98,490

A doctorate in education can open up a lot of different career options in that sector. A lot of doctors of education end up working in either research or in top positions at schools as principals and superintendents.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for someone working in education administration with a doctorate is around the $199,400 mark. A number of doctor of education programs do not require a dissertation .

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $98,230

Data is quickly becoming the most valuable commodity on the planet, and as such, the demand for data specialists and researchers is growing at an impressive rate.

Data science doctorates offer a gateway into these positions, and they usually come with some pretty high salaries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, salary for a data scientist can go as high as $165,230, and with this field ever-expanding, the demand for these positions should continue to increase.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $94,270

Biochemists study the chemical and physical makeup of living organisms. Due to the specialized nature of the subject, research positions in this sector typically pay incredibly well.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, biochemist doctorates can start out at around $67,710 but can increase up to $169,860 or more. This doctorate may suit someone with a background in chemistry or some other science discipline.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $92,870

Information assurance is a new discipline that has been created as a result of the times we live in. Information assurance is effectively another type of cybersecurity that is designed to protect people’s data from third parties and other potentially dangerous sources.

A background in any sort of computer or data-related field can be ideal for getting onto an information assurance course. Due to the increasing demand for data protection, jobs in this sector can be particularly lucrative, and the demand for these jobs is expected to increase as time rolls on.

The demand for experts in this industry is very high and is only predicted to grow over the next decade.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $92,620

Biomedical engineering is becoming an incredibly popular field of research. It is an ever-growing and developing industry, and as such, the demand for expertise in the area is on the rise.

Getting a PhD in biomedical engineering is likely to secure you a lucrative research job for a university or a job in a hospital or the medical industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, an average salary in this field for a senior position ranges from $127,980 to $169,860.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $92,270
• Job Growth: 35%

Statistics is one of the most versatile doctorates available today. Statistics are used in a wide range of different sectors, including finance, research, business, health care, government, and many others.

A doctorate in statistics can be ideal for someone who has a background in math or business. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top salary for someone working in statistics can be as high as $150,840.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $91,250
• Job Growth: 11%

The world of IT is constantly growing, and as it does, the demand for experts grows with it. Getting a doctorate in information technology and computer science can be an incredibly lucrative career move, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics showing top earners taking home as high as $208,00.

The jobs that can be accessed, such as chief technology officers or research roles within the industry, tend to be incredibly well-paid. This doctorate attracts people who have backgrounds in IT-related fields, such as computer science or computer programming.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $86,280
• Job Growth: 16%

For someone who already has experience working in occupational therapy, earning a doctorate in the field can be a huge benefit. Not only can it open the door for them to move up in the industry, but it can also expand their knowledge of the subject area.

It can provide them with theory-based research while also working on their leadership and management skills. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, occupational therapists holding a doctorate degree may reach a salary as high as $122,670.

The job growth for this doctorate is also incredibly high, which means it may be an excellent career path to enter in terms of job security.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $86,110

The number of career options that are available to someone who has a doctorate in criminal justice is typically vast. Working as a criminologist, a criminal justice researcher, or a federal law agency admin can earn graduates a lot of money.

This course of study is best suited for someone who already has real-world experience working in the criminal justice or law sector.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $83,160

Engineering jobs are almost always in demand, and while there are a lot of high paying jobs available for those who have an undergraduate or master’s degree, taking a doctorate in the field can really help you advance your career.

An engineering degree is already one of the highest paying associate degrees , highest paying bachelor degrees , as well as one of the highest paying masters degrees , but the doctorate can be perfect for someone who already has experience working in engineering and wants to take that next step in their career.

A director of engineering job title and other project management positions may offer some very high salaries, about $208,000 or more, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $82,180

With the stigma around mental health finally disappearing, the demand for jobs in psychology is on the rise. While a normal degree or masters in psychology may allow you to get jobs as a psychiatrist or a psychologist, higher-paying positions can become available following a doctorate.

It may also open up roles in research and as a university lecturer in the subject. The doctorate is suited to someone who already has their masters in psychology or who has a significant amount of experience working in the field.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $80,790
• Job Growth: 9%

Getting a degree in philosophy can potentially lead to a surprisingly lucrative career in research or working as a lecturer. The doctorate is suited for someone who wants to work in research and who has a background in philosophy or religious studies.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salaries in this field are around $80,790 per year working in a research role, and up to $180,360 for college professors.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $79,300

Organic chemistry, perhaps more than any of the other sciences, can open up a lot of different career options for doctorates. As well as research and academic positions, someone who studies organic chemistry may be able to land a job in a number of different areas, including geology, the pharmaceutical industry, and engineering.

Organic chemistry is a notoriously difficult subject to study, though, so it is vital that you have a solid background in chemistry and some work experience before attempting to join the program. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salaries can go as high as $139,650 in this field.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $69,000
• Job Growth: 2%

A doctorate in English can open a range of different academic doors for potential students. A PhD in English may be perfect for someone who already has an academic background in the subject and can also be perfect for qualified teachers and writers looking to take the next step in their career.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a doctorate in English may qualify you for a potential career in a lecturing position with salaries as high as $180,360, as well as positions within the publishing industry.

What Are the Different Types of Doctorate Degrees?

There are six common types of terminal degrees.

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) – Traditionally reserved for those who want to remain in the world of academia, Ph.D. degrees focus on maximizing your ability to impart this advanced knowledge to incoming students. Outside of teaching, Ph.D. candidates also focus on pushing the limits of research and theoretical study within their chosen fields.
• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) – The DBA experience is all about turning your terminal research in the areas of finance, marketing, accounting, and other related fields into applicable real-world skills. DBA graduates traditionally work in the corporate sector as executive officers and other ranking members of various managerial teams.
• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) – PsyD students aim to provide clinical services within a wide range of settings, including group, familial, medical, scholastic, and even corporate environments. Earning this degree can give you the power to serve as a practicing clinician or specialized counselor.
• Doctor of Education (EdD) – Capturing an EdD degree is the first step toward a leadership role within the corporate and administrative side of the education field. Working as a principal, district supervisor, or even regional superintendent all fit into the professional path of this degree.
• Doctor of Social Work (DSW) – If you’re interested in educating others on the best practices and leading theories of modern social work and community interaction, then a DSW program could be your option. Holders of this degree research and educate others in the social work field via hands-on training in the classroom and the office, as well as provide answers and guidance in unique or exceptional social issue cases.
• Doctor of Public Health (DPH) – Like most of the other degrees in this review, earning a DPH is all about the desire to lead others in a chosen workplace environment. In this case, that means maintaining residency as an administrator or public health coordinator at a hospital or a similar clinical setting.

The type of doctorate degree you will want to earn depends on your career goals and primarily whether you want to teach the subject or continue working in your field.

Campus or Online: Which One Is Right for You?

It’s no big secret that whichever doctorate route you choose, you will most likely be rewarded for your hard work and research via ample compensation. However, you can make this process a little easier on yourself by focusing on a path – either online or on-campus – that suits your unique needs and daily requirements.

While the appeal of the traditional college experience is the major selling point for the on-campus approach, working on your degree from home is a flexible alternative that can shape and mold itself to your current personal and professional schedule by allowing you to work on your research and coursework at your own pace.

Adding in that these doctorate programs often waive Graduate Record Examination (GRE) minimum scores based on your GPA, as well as reduce or completely remove residency requirements, is further proof that this approach is at least worth your consideration as you plan out your academic future.

Questions Related to Earning a Doctorate

Here are our answers to a few more questions you might have.

How Much Do PhD Graduates Earn?

PhD Graduates make on average close to $100,000, with some job positions paying nearer the $70,000 mark and others going well about $208,000 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

There may be some who question whether it is worth taking the time to invest in a PhD. Doctorate programs require a lot of time and effort, but studies suggest that PhD students typically earn more and find it easier to attract higher-paying jobs than those with just an undergraduate or a master’s degree.

What Are the Highest Paying Degrees?

A lot of degrees can lead to well-paying jobs. The more specialized a degree is in a certain field, the higher the chances are that it will be well paying. These degrees currently tend to be those in the engineering sector, as these are the ones that offer the most in-demand jobs.

What Is the Highest Paying PhD Degrees?

Once again, this one will depend on how specialized your PhD is and how in-demand that expertise is at a given time. Engineering PhDs tend to be evergreen, while there is an increasing demand for those with PhDs and knowledge in computer science and other IT related subjects.

PhDs usually provide those who have them with a lot of the highest paying jobs opportunities.

Are There Any Degrees Higher than a PhD?

No, there are no higher degrees than a PhD.

A PhD, also regularly referred to as just a doctorate, is as high as you can go academically. It is a specialized research doctorate that demonstrates a high level of expertise in a field. Most people who obtain their PhD tend to stay on at universities as either a member of a research team or as a lecturer.

Do you need a masters to get a PhD ? While many PhD programs require you to earn a masters first, it is possible to earn your PhD without having earned a masters. These are the direct entry bachelor’s to PhD programs offered by some universities.

Getting Your Doctorate Degree

It is important that you take the time to do your research into what doctorate will help your career the most. Once you have done this, you can begin to find the right university and program for you and begin the next step in your academic and professional career.

Now that you understand your career prospects and doctorate opportunities, it’s time to lay out the blueprint for a successful future.

Outside of conducting research on each of the areas that interest you, feel free to use the search tool below to find accredited universities that offer online doctoral programs in your chosen field.

When paired up with the rest of what you’ve learned here, there’s nothing that can stop you from finding the right school – and program of study – to fit your personal and professional goals moving forward.

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Phd in management: requirements, salary, jobs, & career growth, what is phd in management.

A PhD in Management is a doctoral degree program that focuses on advanced management research and study. It is usually intended for people who want to work in academia or research, or for those who want to be leaders in business, consulting, or other management-related disciplines.

Organizational behavior, strategy, human resources, marketing, operations, entrepreneurship, and leadership are common topics covered in the PhD in Management program.

PhD in Management students often complete tough coursework, advanced research, and original dissertation work.

How much money do people make with a PhD in Management?

Salaries for PhD in Management holders might range from moderate to high, based on various characteristics.

Individuals with a PhD in Management, for example, who work as professors or researchers in universities or other educational institutions may earn a starting salary ranging from $60,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on the rank and location of the institution.

Individuals with a PhD in Management who work in consulting firms, businesses, or other organizations in leadership or strategic capacities may also earn competitive incomes in the private sector.

Salaries for PhD holders in management in the private sector can vary greatly based on the industry, the organization’s size and location, and the individual’s level of expertise and responsibilities.

What is expected job growth with PhD in Management?

Individuals with a PhD in managerial should expect excellent work prospects due to their advanced education and managerial competence.

Management offers a wide range of professional prospects in academia, research, consulting, executive leadership, and other areas.

In academia, for example, qualified professors and researchers with doctoral degrees, particularly PhDs in Management, are in high demand in universities and educational institutions worldwide.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of postsecondary teachers, including professors, is expected to expand 9% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the national average.

However, job opportunities in academia may differ depending on discipline, institution, and locality. Individuals with a PhD in Management may find possibilities in consulting firms, enterprises, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and other organizations in a variety of industries in the private sector.

Management consultants, directors, executives, and strategy planners are examples of such positions. 

What can you do with a PhD in Management?

A PhD in Management can lead to a variety of careers in academia, research, consulting, executive leadership, and other areas. Individuals with a PhD in Management may pursue the following professional paths:

1. Academia: Many people with a PhD in Management go on to work as professors or researchers in universities or other educational institutions. They can teach management classes, do research, write scholarly publications, and mentor students. Academic positions include professor, associate professor, assistant professor, lecturer, and researcher, among others.

2. Research and Think Tanks: PhD in Management graduates can work in research institutions, think tanks, or policy organizations, conducting research on a variety of management topics, analyzing data, and providing insights to inform decision-making in fields such as business, economics, public policy, or social sciences.

3. Consulting:   PhD in consulting Management holders might work in management consulting businesses, delivering corporations with specialized advise and solutions to challenging business problems. They could be management consultants, strategy consultants, or subject-matter specialists in areas like organizational behavior, human resources, or operations.

4. Executive Leadership: Individuals with a PhD in Management may also pursue executive leadership positions in firms, non-profit organizations, or government agencies. They may serve as CEOs, COOs, CSOs, or in other top-level management positions, giving strategic direction, monitoring operations, and making crucial choices for their firms.

5. Entrepreneurship: Some PhD in Management graduates may decide to start their own enterprises or become entrepreneurs, using their management expertise and research abilities to launch and manage successful ventures in a variety of industries.

6. Specialized Fields: PhD holders may find chances in specialized domains such as healthcare management, sports management, sustainability and environmental management, or technology management, among others, due to their competence in certain areas of management.

7. Other possibilities: Depending on their research focus, abilities, and interests, PhD in Management holders may find possibilities in other disciplines such as government agencies, non-profit organizations, international organizations, and more.

What are the requirements for a PhD in Management?

The specific requirements for obtaining a PhD in Management can vary depending on the institution and program, but generally, the following are common requirements:

1. Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree: Applicants to most PhD programs in Management must have a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Although it is not usually required, certain schools may accept applicants with a Master’s degree in a related discipline.

2. Academic Transcripts: Applicants are usually expected to present certified transcripts of their undergraduate and graduate education, which demonstrate their academic performance and achievement.

3. Statement of Purpose: Applicants are typically expected to provide a personal statement or statement of purpose detailing their research interests, academic ambitions, and reason for pursuing a PhD in Management.

4. Standardized Test Scores: Applicants to many PhD programs may be required to submit scores from standardized tests such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or other related assessments.

5. Letters of Recommendation: Applicants to PhD programs in Management are frequently required to provide letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources who may speak to the applicant’s academic talents, research potential, and eligibility for a PhD program.

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How long does it take to get a phd in management.

The time it takes to complete a PhD in Management can vary based on various factors, including the program structure, the student’s dedication and development, and the institution’s or country’s special criteria.

A PhD in Management, on the other hand, may take 4-6 years to finish on average. A PhD program in Management typically consists of coursework, research, and a dissertation.

The classroom component varies according to the program and the student’s experience, but it often covers management theories, research methodologies, and specific fields of management. The duration of the curriculum varies, but it typically takes 1-2 years to finish.

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Do you need a masters in management to get a phd in management.

In general, a Master’s degree in Management or a related discipline is not usually required to pursue a PhD in Management.

PhD programs in Management normally require a bachelor’s degree as the minimum educational requirement, while other schools may admit students with a bachelor’s degree immediately into their PhD programs.

What are the Best PhD in Management Degree programs?

1. harvard business school (united states) 2. stanford graduate school of business (united states) 3. wharton school of the university of pennsylvania (united states) 4. sloan school of management at mit (united states) 5. kellogg school of management at northwestern university (united states) 6. london business school (united kingdom) 7. insead (france and singapore) 8. haas school of business at uc berkeley (united states) 9. ross school of business at the university of michigan (united states) 10. judge business school at the university of cambridge (united kingdom), leave a comment cancel reply.

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PhD Salaries and Lifetime Earnings

PhDs employed across job sectors show impressive earning potential:

“…[T]here is strong evidence that advanced education levels continue to be associated with higher salaries. A study by the Georgetown Center on Education and the Workforce showed that across the fields examined, individuals with a graduate degree earned an average of 38.3% more than those with a bachelor’s degree in the same field. The expected lifetime earnings for someone without a high school degree is $973,000; with a high school diploma, $1.3 million; with a bachelor’s degree, $2.3 million; with a master’s degree, $2.7 million; and with a doctoral degree (excluding professional degrees), $3.3 million. Other data indicate that the overall unemployment rate for individuals who hold graduate degrees is far lower than for those who hold just an undergraduate degree.” - Pathways Through Graduate School and Into Careers , Council of Graduate Schools (CGS) and Educational Testing Service (ETS), pg. 3.

Average salaries by educational level and degree (data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2009-2011, courtesy of the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce):

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports higher earnings and lower unemployment rates for doctoral degree holders in comparison to those with master’s and bachelor’s degrees:

According to national studies, more education translates not only to higher earnings, but also higher levels of job success and job satisfaction:

“Educational attainment – the number of years a person spends in school – strongly predicts adult earnings, and also predicts health and civic engagement. Moreover, individuals with higher levels of education appear to gain more knowledge and skills on the job than do those with lower levels of education and they are able, to some extent, to transfer what they learn across occupations.” - Education for Life and Work (2012), National Research Council of the National Academies, pg. 66.

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PhD in Management Program

A phd in management: where business research and education intersect.

Become an industry thought leader while preparing tomorrow’s business leaders.

Our fully funded PhD in Management is designed for ambitious students and professionals interested in a career in university teaching and research.

This residential program, based at the Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management in Ithaca, NY, combines Ivy League rigor and real-world relevance to prepare you for successful careers in academia.

Why Get a PhD in Management?

With a strong focus on management science and applied research, this doctoral degree is ideal for someone looking to teach at the university level and contribute to the greater body of industry knowledge. Pursuing a PhD in Management is also an ideal next step for executives and senior managers who want to make a transition to academia or enhance their research skills for a successful consulting career.

Fully Funded, Highly Flexible: What Makes Cornell’s Management PhD Different?

As you explore PhD programs’ degree requirements, faculty engagement, and campus experience, Cornell stands alone.

In Cornell’s highly flexible program, you’ll choose a specific area of study and build your own dissertation committee. Our program faculty are genuinely interested and invested in your intellectual development. In this small and highly selective program, you will get to know the faculty and your peers well.

The SC Johnson Graduate School of Management is home to leading research centers and a high-impact academic journal; these open you up to unique learning and mentorship opportunities.

Business Simulation Lab

The Debra Paget and Jeffrey Berg Business Simulation Lab facilitates in-person and online behavioral research related to decision-making and problem-solving.

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Our Three-Pronged Approach to a PhD in Management

The Johnson School’s doctoral degree in management combines the best of theory and practice, building on a three-pronged foundation:

Hands-on Experience

Develop your research and analytical skills. You’ll work with classmates to examine existing literature and theories for class deliverables, which will often include your own original research.

Customizable Curriculum

Design your own academic pathway. You’ll choose one of six primary areas of study and create your own dissertation committee.

University-Wide Coursework

Draw on the expertise from across Cornell. You’ll get to select graduate-level courses from schools and colleges devoted to law , hospitality , engineering , labor relations , and other fields.

At a Glance: Cornell’s Fully Funded PhD in Management

The fully residential, fully funded PhD in Management program includes a tuition waiver and a stipend for living expenses. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

Degree Awarded

PhD in Management

Program Location

Ithaca, NY, with options in New York City

Program Format

Foundational coursework, original research, and six potential areas of study

Hear from Our Community

“PhD is a marathon, not a sprint, and collaborating with great people is paramount. At Cornell, I’ve found a place where amazing people come together, supporting my research and personal growth. Choosing Cornell means joining a community that knows how important it is to work with exceptional people to excel in the program.” – Elina Hur PhD ’23

Customize Your Path: Our Areas of Study

When you apply to the Johnson School’s PhD in Management, you will select a primary area of study. Choosing a concentration allows you to gain specialized skills and knowledge while growing a portfolio of original research.

Examine the role of accounting information in firms and financial markets. PhD-level research at Cornell explores topics such as how firms report information to investors, how accounting information is used to manage firms, and the nature of auditing.

Strategy & Business Economics

Use modern tools and methodologies to gain a better understanding of the world. PhD students in this area explore many aspects of economics including industrial, behavioral, labor, and organizational.

Dive deep into the financial structure and issues of organizations. Your research might look at how conflicts of interest affect corporate policy, how investor psychology affects asset pricing, or how to detect price bubbles.

Learn how theories from operations research, economics, psychology, and sociology intersect to inform corporate and consumer decisions. Your PhD studies will explore both quantitative and behavioral perspectives of marketing.

Management & Organizations

Prepare for a research-focused career in academia or industry. This versatile concentration develops skilled, innovative, analytical researchers through a broad curriculum and close faculty collaboration.

Operations, Technology, & Information Management

Develop the technical skills and behavioral analysis knowledge you need to address high-impact managerial decisions. This focus area also offers an option to complete coursework at Cornell Tech in New York City.

Idea Generation to Publication: A Career in Teaching and Research

The majority of our PhD in Management students pursue careers in academia. After graduation, many land tenure-track teaching positions at top-tier business schools and continue to advance knowledge through original research. Johnson School PhD students often field multiple offers and see starting salaries range from $150,000 to $250,000.

Finding Your Place at Cornell: Meet Our Current PhDs

Students from around the United States and across the globe arrive at the Johnson School to earn their PhD in Management—and their diverse research interests, educational backgrounds, and professional experiences make for a vibrant, enriching learning environment.

MEET CURRENT PHD STUDENTS

Research and Placements: Making an Impact in the Management Field

After earning the PhD in Management, our alumni go on to teach and inspire future leaders at top-tier institutions. Not only do they teach and conduct research alongside some of the most brilliant minds in business, but they also advance the field through publishing in leading journals and presenting their work at industry conferences.

Recent PhD in Management Placements

• Piyush Anand, PhD ’21, assistant professor of marketing, Jones Graduate School of Business, Rice University
• Guarav Kankanhalli, PhD ’20, assistant professor, Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business, University of Pittsburgh
• Eunjee Kim, PhD ’21, assistant professor, Mays Business School, Texas A&M University
• Sarah Lim, PhD ’21, assistant professor, Gies College of Business, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• Xuege Lu, PhD ’22, assistant professor, Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota
• Subrina Shen, PhD ’21, assistant professor, McCombs School of Business, University of Texas at Austin

Recent Research Publications

• “ Do Real Estate Values Boost Corporate Borrowing? Evidence from Contract-Level Data ” in the Journal of Financial Economics (2022) — Gaurav Kankanhalli, PhD ’20, with Murillo Campello, Robert A. Connolly, and Eva Steiner
• “ Converging Tides Lift All Boats: Consensus in Evaluation Criteria Boosts Investments in Firms in Nascent Technology Sectors ” in Organization Science (2021) — Xirong (Subrina) Shen, PhD ’21, with Huisi (Jessica) Li, PhD ’20, and Pamela S. Tolbert 
• “ Initial and Longer-Term Change in Unit-Level Turnover Following Leader Succession: Contingent Effects of Outgoing and Incoming Leader Characteristics ” in Organization Science (2020)— Huisi (Jessica) Li, PhD ’20, with John Hausknecht and Lisa Dragoni

“ Does Regulatory Jurisdiction Affect the Quality of Investment-Adviser Regulation? ” in American Economic Review (2019) — Alan Kwan, PhD ’17, with Ben Charoenwong and Tarik Umar

Our Faculty: Accomplished Researchers, Dedicated Teachers

When you join the PhD in Management program at the Johnson School, you’ll be part of a learning community comprising more than 100 accomplished academics and thought leaders. 

Not only will you take courses with renowned professors from across the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business, but you also will have the opportunity to build your own faculty committee—a group that will become instrumental as you select your dissertation topic and embark on your original research.

Faculty Spotlight: Learn from Leading Thought Leaders

Throughout the PhD program—from foundational coursework to your dissertation—you’ll work closely with dedicated teacher-scholars like these:

Kristina Rennekamp

Dr. Rennekamp’s research focuses on financial accounting from a behavioral perspective. She’s widely published, with work appearing in leading academic journals such as The Accounting Review , Contemporary Accounting Research , and The Journal of Financial Reporting .

Karan Girotra

Dr. Girotra studies the digital transformation of companies, whether it’s looking at emerging tools and practices or exploring new business models. He’s frequently interviewed in an array of mainstream business media outlets, including Bloomberg BusinessWeek , Fortune , and Forbes .

Kaitlin Woolley

Dr. Woolley studies the psychological processes behind consumer motivation. She’s an award-winning educator and researcher with work published in academic journals and national media outlets including the Journal of Consumer Research , Journal of Marketing Research , and The Wall Street Journal .

EXPLORE JOHNSON SCHOOL FACULTY

What You’ll Learn: Curriculum Overview

As you pursue your PhD in business management, you’ll begin with a set of foundation courses and progress into advanced coursework in your area of interest. Through it all, your faculty committee will help make sure you’re on the right track.

Foundational Management Coursework

Early in your doctoral program, you will complete foundational coursework in management and other fields. Many of these will focus on the research process and prepare you for your dissertation.

Advanced Coursework in Your Concentration Area

As you progress in the PhD in Management program, you’ll take electives and advanced courses that align with your research area of interest; these classes can be in the Johnson School and across Cornell.

Your Dissertation: Creating Original Research

During the final part of the program, you begin work on your dissertation—the culmination of your original research. You choose the topic of research in conjunction with your committee.

VIEW PROGRAM SPECIFICS

Beyond Business: Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration and Dialogue

Tap into the experience and expertise of faculty members from across Cornell University.

Management is a broad science. Business leaders serve in a variety of roles in industries of all kinds: healthcare, consumer goods, agriculture, biotechnology, media, and consulting to name just a few. At Cornell, you can enrich your education and expand your research opportunities by taking courses and finding mentors beyond the college of business.

Explore fields like computer science, psychology, sociology, communication, engineering, and data science—and then connect the dots back to your management research.

Interact with peers and professors from other disciplines by participating in student organizations and special interest groups or by attending public lectures, workshops, and networking events.

Admissions Overview: How to Apply to the Management PhD Program

The ideal candidate for the Johnson School’s doctorate degree in management will have a strong record of academic excellence, a solid understanding of the research process, and an entrepreneurial approach to problem-solving. An MBA or master’s degree is not a requirement for admission. 

Our admissions page offers more details about program prerequisites, selection criteria, requirements, deadline information, and a checklist of materials you need to submit with your application.

Connect With Cornell Admissions

The Johnson School admissions team is available to answer your questions about the program and the application process. Stop in or reach out by phone or email today.

253-D Sage Hall Johnson Graduate School of Management Cornell University Ithaca, NY 14853-6201

Phone: 607-255-5340 Email: Graduate Research Programs Office

The Cornell Campus: Where You Will Learn, Grow, and Thrive

Learn, grow, and thrive on one of the most beautiful college campuses in the United States. As a PhD student, you’ll spend a lot of time in Sage Hall, a Gothic-style building dating back to 1875. You’ll find more high-tech learning spaces just off campus at the Breazzano Family Center for Business Education. You’ll also have access to the innovative campus of Cornell Tech in New York City—particularly relevant to students focused on technology and information management. 

Attending Cornell also means you’ll call Ithaca, NY, home for about five years. Our eclectic downtown is full of eateries, shops, activities, and all of the amenities you’d need for everyday life. When you’re not in class or studying, you can explore all that the Finger Lakes region has to offer.

PhD in Management FAQ: What You Need to Know

Before you apply to a research-focused graduate program, you’re likely to want to do some deep research of your own. For instance, how does a fully funded PhD in Management work? What’s the typical completion time?

We have a robust Frequently Asked Questions section to help you learn more about our program, the admissions process, and dissertation requirements. For our international applicants, you’ll also find specific details about earning your PhD in Management.

May I speak to someone about my interest in the program and visit?

You are welcome to reach out to any professor with whom you see a good research fit. Our website also has a wealth of information about the program.

Is an interview part of the process?

We offer interviews only to a few applicants after their first screening.

May I talk to a professor or advisor?

You are welcome to contact any professor with whom you see a research match. Faculty are more likely to respond to specific research queries.

I have questions; may I write to this program email address?

Yes. Our response time will vary. We are not able to answer detailed questions that are better assessed by faculty during the application process.

May I schedule a campus tour?

Admissions does not offer campus tours for PhD program applicants. However, you may arrange an appointment with a faculty member.

Fraud alert – beware of third-party post-doc scams.

Cornell University recently has been made aware of fraudulent activity targeting overseas students and researchers, including at least one third party website falsely stating that it is offering a postdoctoral or visiting scholar program in association with Cornell. These scams, which may seek to obtain money and/or personal details from interested applicants, are fraudulent. 

Cornell wishes to warn the public about these fraudulent activities being perpetrated purportedly in the name of Cornell, and/or its officials. Please be advised that: 

• Cornell does not, nor has it, worked in collaboration with third-party companies or organizations to offer postdoctoral or research certificate programs.
• Third parties do not collect tuition or fees on behalf of Cornell.
• Cornell does not work with or endorse such organizations including, but not limited to, Shanghai Lufei Education Technology Co., Ltd. (Chinese name: 上海璐斐教育科技有限公司) and Shenzhen Guoyan Era Education Technology Co., Ltd. (Chinese name: 深圳市国研时代教育科技有限公司).

Cornell’s postdoctoral positions are listed on the Academic Career Opportunities website and postdoctoral fellowship programs are available for viewing. If you suspect a third party of falsely advertising a Cornell program, please notify [email protected]. Victims of such scams may also report them to their local law enforcement authorities for appropriate action.

Start the Application Process Today

Ready to apply to our highly selective, fully funded PhD in Management? We look forward to learning more about you and your research goals. Start the application process today at the Cornell Graduate Admissions website. [You’ll first need to register for an account or log in to an existing one.]

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12 Career Paths You Can Pursue With a Doctorate in Business Administration

If you are considering earning your DBA online to increase your career possibilities and salary potential, a good starting point is to do a deep dive into the jobs you can get with an advanced business administration degree. 

Online DBA degree programs can enhance the careers of many professionals by equipping them with marketable, high-level skills like data-driven decision making, business intelligence, and ethical leadership. 85% of surveyed professional doctorate graduates say that their degree facilitated a promotion or career change. Additionally, 97% of DBA graduates report receiving a full-time job offer within six months of graduation.

Post-graduate education in business administration can equip you for greater success in your field. Consider 12 of the jobs that a business administration program can prepare graduates to fill. 

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Business Consultant

Business consultants — also called management consultants or management analysts — work with corporations and organizations to achieve their specific goals. A consultant may be retained in order to work on a specific company project, such as a reorganization or expansion. Consultants will request and review data and information about the organization then make recommendations for best practices based on what they observe. 

The consultant’s job is often split into two parts that work together: reviewing past information and presenting future plans. Therefore, consultants need to be skilled both in data analysis and in effective communication, so that they can empower their clients to make informed, clear decisions. Graduates of doctorate in business administration degree programs will especially excel at these dual responsibilities.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that management analyst roles will grow by 14% between 2020–2030 , which is faster than the average rate for all occupations. They list a median annual salary of $87,660, however, that is based on bachelor and master’s level management analyst roles as well. The highest 10% of earners in these roles earned over $156,840 per year. 

C-Suite Executive

Professionals who hold a doctorate-level degree in business administration and have many years of relevant experience in their field are equipped to enter c-level roles such as chief executive officer, chief administrative officer, or chief operations officer. These professionals are typically responsible for oversight of many major aspects of a company, including employee teams, budgeting, and projects. 

Executive leadership roles such as c-suite positions are increasingly technical as the marketplace shifts toward higher prioritization of data and metrics. In fact, artificial intelligence, data science, and machine learning technologies are the top three technical skills that are in-demand for C-suite executives. Business administration degrees that emphasize business intelligence are a perfect fit.

The BLS projects 8% growth rate in top executive roles between 2020 and 2030. They list a median annual wage for chief executives of $185,950. 

Economists study data, trends, and economic issues in order to understand various aspects of resource production and distribution. They may conduct surveys, perform statistical analysis, and use various technological tools and software programs to evaluate economic trends. 

Professionals in the economics field will find that a doctorate of business administration enhances their capacity to make interpretations and forecast trends in the marketplace. Their degree program will also strengthen their leadership skills, further empowering them to share their forecasts and predictions with key stakeholders of businesses, organizations, government agencies, or even individuals in order to assist them in making economic decisions.

The BLS lists a median annual wage of $108,350 for economists . However, this estimate includes economists with master’s degrees. Economists with doctoral degrees may have a higher earning potential that is closer to the top 10% of economist’s salaries listed by the BLS, which is higher than $198,230.

Professors who hold a doctorate of business administration are likely to teach classes in a college or university’s business school, and to cover topics like business practices, management skills, or ethical leadership. The day-to-day work of a professor may include meeting with a student to discuss a paper or exam grade, making lesson plans, and conducting a survey that will inform an upcoming scholarly article. 

The BLS projects a 12% growth rate for postsecondary teachers between 2020 and 2030. The median annual wage for these professionals was $80,560 in May 2020. The top 10% earned more than $179,540.

Organizational Development Manager

Organizational development managers determine what types of training and development could help the organization and its employees reach their goals. An organizational development manager may work with both teams and individuals in order to make development plans. Professionals with experience as human resources generalists or training managers who graduate from a doctorate of business administration degree program will find themselves well-suited for roles in organizational development management.

Organizational development managers are responsible for selecting training opportunities that align with the company’s objectives, creating and managing staff development budgets, and evaluating training programs and those who lead them. 

The BLS projects that roles for training and development managers will grow 11% between 2020–2030 , which is faster than the average for all occupations. These professionals earned a median salary of $115,460 in May 2020, with the top 10% of earners receiving over $200,210.

Director of Human Resources

A director of human resources (HR director) may work in any number of business fields. The HR director develops and implements policies, plans and coordinates activities, and oversees various components of organizational staffing. This professional will be responsible for recruitment, hiring, and training of staff members, delivery of performance evaluations, and, when necessary, disciplinary issues including termination. 

HR directors, who typically have years of experience in human resources or a requisite role, often work closely with senior leaders to ensure that the company culture is aligned with the organization’s goals and objectives. They are also involved in various dynamics of company procedures such as compensation, benefits, leave, and occupational health and safety. 

The BLS does not project a growth rate or list an average salary for Directors of Human Resources. However, they project a growth rate of 9% between 2020–2030 for human resources managers, which may shed some light on the subject. According to Built In , the average base salary for an HR director is $140,493 with an average of 432,770 in additional cash compensation, totaling $173,713.

Government Program Manager

Across all branches of the military and dozens of government agencies, skilled leaders with experience and education in workforce planning and leadership are needed to manage people and programs. A program manager in the federal government, for example, may work for the Environmental Protection Agency to develop training programs and conduct strategic planning. A program manager who works for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission may advise commission leaders, oversee nation-wide programs, and direct policy development.

At the local level, program managers may work for a city or state. They might, for example, be responsible for designing and implementing programs that lead a city’s decarbonization efforts. A program manager in such a position may collaborate with other leaders to create a plan for increasing their area’s use of green energy.

At the federal level, many program manager jobs are ranked as GS-15 according to the General Schedule Pay Scale. That means a salary range of $110,460 - $143,598 per year. As far as the state and local level, Payscale lists the average government program manager salary as $91,657 .

Nonprofit Executive Director

Nonprofit executive directors are the primary leaders of charitable organizations. They are responsible for overseeing programs that align with the organization’s mission and industry best practices. Oftentimes, their roles entail fundraising, strategic planning, and advising the board of directors. Nonprofit directors may have worked in the field for decades, or they may be transitioning from a public or private role into the philanthropic sector. Skills like leadership, strategic planning, and financial management may transition well to a nonprofit executive director role when combined with a doctorate of business administration degree.

The ability to understand the needs of the population the organization serves both through data and relationships are invaluable for such a leader — and makes a doctorate in business administration a great asset. These leaders need to be able to put together and activate staff teams who can accomplish great things with limited resources.

Salaries for nonprofit executive directors tend to vary based on the size of the organization and its budgets. The BLS does not track nonprofit executive director salaries or job projections specifically, but they do state that the average mean salary for top executives in social advocacy organizations was $164,010 as of May 2020 .

Strategic Planner

Strategic planners work to innovate and implement projects, systems, and strategies that improve a company or organizations. They may create and present various plans, or stages of plans, that project years into the company’s future — and outline the steps to take along the way. Graduates of doctorate of business administration degree programs who also have experience in management and analysis are strong candidates for strategic planner roles.

Strategic planners need to have a varied skill set that includes the ability to analyze data, design plans and strategies that address weaknesses, and communicate concepts with key stakeholders.

While it is not an exact match, the management analyst projections and salary listed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics are useful for understanding the possible range for strategic planners. The BLS lists an average median salary of $87,660 for management analysts in May 2020 and a projected job growth rate of 14% from 2020–2030.

Market Research Analyst

Market research analysts monitor and forecast marketplace trends. They work in most fields of industry studying and projecting sales and marketing trends so that the companies they work for can make strategic, data-driven decisions about the products and services they offer. Marketing assistants and account representatives will be strong candidates for a market research analyst career path when they combine their professional experience with a doctorate of business administration degree.

These professionals explore everything from consumer demographics to product demand in order to provide research-based recommendations for marketing, advertising, and sales efforts. They employ statistics, visualizations like charts and graphs, and research methods such as polls, surveys, and focus groups to inform their recommendations. 

The BLS lists an average median salary of $65,810 for market research analysts with 10% of senior market research analyst professionals earning over $127,410. Market research analyst job positions are projected to grow by 22% from 2020–2030.

Project Manager

For graduates of a business administration degree program who enjoy empowering others to learn, grow, and work together effectively, the role of project manager is a great profession to consider. 

A project manager may work as a consultant or work at a company full time to oversee various company projects. Professionals in these positions are often responsible for setting project goals and milestones, collaborating with teams to ensure progress, and assessing projects at various stages. They oversee the timeline and budget, allocate resources, and update key stakeholders.

The BLS lists an annual median salary of $77,420 for project management specialists and business operations specialists, with the top 10% earning $135,220 or more. The BLS expects 9% job growth for management occupations between 2020–2030. 

Logistician

Logisticians analyze data, current events, and company performance to coordinate their company’s supply chain . They typically manage the full life cycle of a product, allocate needed materials, and work with suppliers and customers to create positive outcomes for all involved. The skills developed in a doctorate of business administration degree program can enhance and build upon the abilities of logisticians.

Logisticians may design strategies to improve efficiencies, perform troubleshooting tasks, and work to reduce costs for their company. While most logisticians work in manufacturing, they also find employment in the government, professional services, private corporations, and more. 

The BLS projects a 30% growth rate between 2020–2030 for logisticians , which is much faster than the rate for all occupations. They list a median annual wage of $76,270 for this position, with the highest percent earning more than $122,580. 

Accelerate Your Career with an online Doctorate of Business Administration from Marymount University 

The marketplace needs data-savvy leaders. Through the online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Business Intelligence program at Marymount University Online you can prepare for high-level business management.

Our 100% online DBA program takes less than three years and focuses on applied research that directly correlates to the real-world. Prepare to lead with a DBA in Business Intelligence .

Salary Statistics

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BBA FULL-TIME PROFILES

Bba salary survey 2022-2023.

Full-Time Statistics by Major

*Canfield Business Honors Program (CBHP) students are allowed to have a double major in business: one in CBHP and one in another business discipline. Those CBHP students who double major have been counted in the percentage (%) of reports by major for their non-CBHP major. **Data points not meeting the minimum requirement of three are indicated by an N/A designation to protect student confidentiality ***no offers reported

Full-Time Statistics by Geographical Region

*The percentage (%) of reports for Austin, Dallas, Houston, and Other Texas (each) is a percentage of the overall Texas reports. **Given the limited data points, salary data not reported to protect student confidentiality.

Full-Time Statistics by Industry

*All students reporting job acceptances and salary details **Data points not meeting the minimum requirement of three are indicated by an N/A designation to protect student confidentiality *** Financial Services includes Asset / Investment Management, Commercial Banking, Insurance, Investment Banking / Brokerage / Wealth Management, Multiple Financial Services, and Private Equity/Venture Capital

BBA INTERN PROFILES

Internship statistics by major.

*Canfield Business Honors Program (CBHP) students are allowed to have a double major in business: one in CBHP and one in another business discipline. Those CBHP students who double major have been counted in the percentage (%) of reports by major for their non-CBHP major **Data points not meeting the minimum requirement of three are indicated by an N/A designation to protect student confidentiality ***Students typically declare a major in their second year

Internship Statistics by Geographical Region

* The percentage (%) of reports for Austin, Dallas, Houston, and Other Texas (each) is a percentage of the overall Texas reports. **Data points not meeting the minimum requirement of three are indicated by an N/A designation to protect student confidentiality

Internship Statistics by Industry

*All students reporting job acceptance and salary details **Data points not meeting the minimum requirement of three are indicated by an N/A designation to protect student confidentiality ***Financial Services includes Asset / Investment Management, Commercial Banking, Insurance, Investment Banking / Brokerage / Wealth Management, Multiple Financial Services, and Private Equity/Venture Capital

MPA PROFILES

Mpa employment statistics.

MPA Class of 2023 Average Salary

*44% reported signing bonuses

MPA Geographic Distribution of Employment

MS PROGRAMS PROFILES

Msba salary outcomes.

MSF Salary Outcomes

MSITM Salary Outcomes

MSM Salary Outcomes

MBA PROFILES

Full-time statistics overall.

Full-Time Statistics by Function

** Data points not meeting the minimum CSEA data requirements (minimum of three) are indicated by an N/A designation

***Other industries include media and entertainment, non-profit & social enterprises

Full-Time Statistics by Region

View a printable version of the Full-Time program's Class of 2022 Salary Statistics

MBA INTERN PROFILES

Internship statistics overall.

Internship Statistics by Function

***Other industries include human resources, governmental affairs, law, business intelligence, marketing analytics, business/corporate development, other

Intern Statistics by Industry

**Other industries include legal and sports

Intern Statistics by Region

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Ph.D.s That Pay: The 15 Highest Paying Doctoral Degrees

Phd program rankings.

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• Doctorate in Public Policy/Administration
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• ALL Ph.D. Degree Program Rankings

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• Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
• Aerospace Engineering
• Behavioral Health (D.B.H.)
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• Chemistry (D.Chem.)
• Clinical Nutrition (D.C.N.)
• Speech-Language Pathology (CScD)
• Criminology (D.Crim.)
• Economics (DEc)
• Health Science (D.H.S./D.H.Sci)
• Library Science (D.L.S.)
• Molecular Biology (Phd Mol Biol)
• Occupational Safety and Health (D.O.S.H.)
• Physics (Ph.D. Physics)
• ALL PhD Career Guides

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What are the highest paying doctoral degrees ? Despite stories of candidates being “overqualified” for job openings, or potential employers passing over applicants with “useless” degrees, Ph.D. holders have the lowest average unemployment rate of any level of educational attainment.

Generally speaking, gaining more years of higher education is almost always good for your earnings potential!

Short of professional degrees (which include Doctors of Medicine and Juris Doctors, or lawyers), Ph.D.’s also earn the most over their lifetime when compared to other degree types. Take a look at the highest-paying doctoral degrees!

Additional Resources: America’s Most Popular PhD Degrees

The Highest Paying Doctoral Degrees

Now that we’ve covered the important factors that affect Ph.D. earnings (including industry and location of employment), let’s take a look at what specific highest-paying doctoral degrees are available on a national level.

We’ve looked at over 50 of the most common doctoral degree programs in terms of early career earnings, mid-career salaries, and “maximum” earnings. While there are obviously outliers with Ph.D. programs in many of these fields, “maximum” career earnings were taken by noting the earnings of the top 10% of earners with the degree in question, or the average salary for degree holders with the degree in a single city, whichever is greater.

Below we’ve ranked the highest paying doctoral degrees by their “maximum” salaries.

Ph.D. in Statistics

Statisticians utilize statistical analysis to aid in decision-making and product development in a wide range of industries. Commonly employed in business, health care, government roles, think tanks, technology, and non-profits, statisticians are in high demand among organizations that intake enough data to require statistical analysis.

Most statistician jobs require a master’s degree, so obtaining a doctoral degree in statistics helps statisticians to stand out even more in this sought-after profession. It’s noteworthy that doctorate degrees in statistics have one of the highest starting salaries of doctorate degrees surveyed. Their “maximum” salary, however, is slightly lower than the remaining professions in our ranking.

• Average Early Career Salary: $58,310
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $67,230
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $78,760

SEE : DOCTOR OF STATISTICS (PH.D. STAT.) SALARY AND INFORMATION

Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering

As populations age and health care becomes more reliant on big data and technology, Biomedical Engineering stands to play a more and more central role in healthcare solutions.

In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that Biomedical Engineering roles are expected to increase by more than 5% in the next seven years. Presently a doctoral degree in Biomedical Engineering stands as the primary way to become involved with research in biomedical research.

Often paired with an M.D., some medical device makers who also practice as medical doctors make substantially more than the maximum salary listed below. Just looking at the Ph.D. in the subject, however, the most common job description includes designing, studying, or improving biomedical devices.

Common locations of employment for biomedical engineering include hospitals, consulting firms, research groups, university settings, and manufacturing companies. It’s worth noting that while early-career average earnings are on the lower end of our list, by mid-career, Ph.D.’s in biomedical research are farther into the pack.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $62,647
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $70,619
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $88,164

SEE: DOCTOR OF BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING (BME PH.D.) SALARY AND INFORMATION

Ph . d. in im munology.

Immunologists are medical researchers (and for those with M.D.s, practicing physicians) who focus on disease immunity. For those holding Ph.D.s in Immunology, common work settings include teaching in universities, research in universities or hospitals, policy-related roles, or research in public and private labs.

While dual M.D.s and Ph.D.s are often required to pursue research on your own as an immunologist, just one of these two degrees focused on immunology is required to obtain a position in public and private research settings.

Since 2004, there has been a widespread shortage of immunologists across the nation. This has led to 10%+ additional vacancies in job openings each year over the last decade. This has been reflected in the rising income of immunologists.

When looking at early, mid, and maximum salaries for immunologists, it’s of note that those holding both Ph.D.s and M.D.s stand to make substantially more than those with “just” a Ph.D. in the discipline.

• Average Early Career Salary: $248,453
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $276,843
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $368,422

SEE: DOCTOR OF IMMUNOLOGY SALARY AND INFORMATION

Ph.d. in pharmacology.

Pharmaceuticals are big business, and pharmaceutical researchers are on both the front line with patients in need and scientific endeavors expanding the field. Those who pursue Ph.D. in pharmacology (a distinct degree from a Pharm.D.) are expected to have a master’s degree in related material.

Doctor of Pharmacy degrees, on the other hand, are shorter programs requiring 60-90 credit hours of prerequisites at the undergraduate level.

Pharm.D. programs prepare students for being pharmacists, while Ph.D.’s in pharmacology prepare students for research and instruction roles. While entry-level earnings are lower for Ph.D.s than Pharm.D’s, Ph.D.s can earn significantly more in research roles by their mid and late-career.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $112,065
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $118,979
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $133,394

SEE: BEST ONLINE SCHOOLS FOR DOCTOR OF PHARMACY (PHARM.D.)

Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering

Electrical engineers are some of the most versatile engineering types, finding employment in aviation, consumer goods, technology, transportation, logistics, and a wide range of other industries. While most forms of electrical engineering already provide a steady and well-compensated gig for life, Ph.D.s in electrical engineering are highly sought after.

While a Ph.D. in electrical engineering may still do some engineering work (some will work exclusively on topics they have specialized in) many hold advanced degrees in engineering instead of supervising teams.

For roles like chief technology officer, head of product, staff research engineer, project expert, and director of research and development, having a doctorate degree in electrical engineering may help candidates to stand out in extremely competitive fields. Additionally, moving up the corporate ladder that far increases pay far beyond that of “run-of-the-mill” engineers.

For the top 10% of earners holding a Ph.D. in electrical engineering, over $78,000 in compensation is the norm, often ranging much higher depending on the role performed.

• Average Early Career Salary: $73,027
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $77,006
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $88,708

SEE: DOCTOR OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING (D.E.E.) SALARY AND INFORMATION

Ph.d. in clinical psychology.

Ph.D.s in clinical psychology have a wide range of career paths to choose from. For those looking to practice clinical psychology, a 1-year externship program is often required, where students obtain experience working with patients. Ph.D.s will also often specialize in one area. Common areas include health psychology, child psychology, and neuropsychology.

Additionally, Ph.D.s in clinical psychology may elect to work in case management roles, as supervisors in treatment centers, in hospital settings, in education, in corporations, or in research settings.

This wide range of occupational settings creates quite a disparity between early-career earnings and the earnings of the upper 10th percentile of clinical psychologists, as one can see below. With this range of roles one can pursue with a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, however, comes great freedom.

This versatile degree can help those in need, advance the study of the human mind, enhance corporate efficiency, or help in the education of the next generation of psychologists.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $46,400
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $79,800
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $138,600

SEE: DOCTOR OF CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY (CLINPSYD) SALARY AND INFORMATION

Ph.d. in aerospace engineering.

Ph.D.s in Aerospace Engineering is one of the few sub-discipline degrees among doctoral engineering choices. While there are many Ph.D.s that may help you advance in aerospace engineering fields (physics, other engineering degrees, natural sciences, and so forth), aerospace engineering Ph.D.s often spend additional time diving into research on one subsystem of aerospace technologies.

For example, sensors, payload analysis, failure analysis, and so forth. With that said, a Ph.D. in any engineering discipline often provides a framework through which recipients can address any engineering problem.

And — even if not initially — many Ph.D.s in aerospace engineering find themselves working in other engineering fields, running their own companies, or moving into management. As one may expect, aerospace can be quite a lucrative field and includes employers such as NASA, defense contractors, branches of the military, airlines, vehicle manufacturers, telecommunications companies, and research opportunities at universities.

• Average Early Career Salary: $67,093
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $74,236
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $84,112

SEE: Doctor of Aerospace Engineering (Ph.D. AE) Career Guide: Salary and Degree Info

Ph.d. in engineering.

Ph.D.s in engineering are research-based degrees that focus on engineering at a theoretical level and prepare the recipient for either a role as a researcher or university instructor or industry work.

A similar doctorate of engineering degree is also a research degree (unique among professional degrees) and is similar in many ways to Ph.D. in engineering save for a higher focus on industry applications.

Ph.D.’s in engineering are some of the most versatile engineering degrees at the doctoral level. However, they may require time for the recipient to gather domain-specific knowledge (say, engineering related to wind tunnels, power plants, or aircraft).

This is evidenced by the growth in salary from entry-level through the highest 10% of earners in which engineering Ph.D.’s can nearly double their salary.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $69,140
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $121,830
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $174,530

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Chemical engineering is a multidisciplinary field utilizing physics, chemistry, economics, engineering, and math to resolve problems related to producing, using, transforming, and transporting chemicals.

Chemical engineers are routinely involved with all manner of consumer and business-facing production environments, from creating new materials for diapers to hazard assessments to large manufacturing plants.

Almost any consumer product produced on a large scale likely had a chemical engineer involved with some portion of manufacturing. So one can imagine the demand for chemical engineers is high. In fact, around 8% more chemical engineering manufacturing jobs are expected to be open in the next seven years.

For those with Ph.D.s in the discipline, employment opportunities also exist in research, academia, consulting roles, and entrepreneurship.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $75,633
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $83,381
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $99,727

SEE: Doctor of Chemical Engineering (PhD CE) Career Guide: Salary and Info

Ph.d. in physics.

Physics is the study of matter and the behavior of matter through space and time. When many think of physicists, they think of the cosmos. But many of the hardest engineering problems are also related to physics.

Those with Ph.D.s in physics will likely have specialized in one or more subject matter areas including optics, the physics of sound, atomic physics, nuclear physics, and gravitational physics, among many others. This often leads to important research roles in private industry or university settings.

From cars to spacecraft to telescopes, physicists have played integral roles in advancing products. With that said, even if Ph.D.s in physics have previously specialized in one area of science, physics helps to prepare scientists with the ability to think about a wide range of problems.

For this reason, many Ph.D.s in physics may find themselves in demand in a wide variety of industries throughout their career. And many talented physicists will find themselves well compensated.

• Average Early Career Salary: $65,995
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $71,659
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $114,248

SEE: Doctor of Physics (Ph.D. Physics) Career Guide: Salary and Info

Ph.d. in organic chemistry.

Chemistry is the study of the structure, properties, and reactions between compounds and materials. Organic chemistry utilizes the same research methods to focus on organic matter.

The good news is that this collection of compounds and materials (those that contain carbon) comprise a majority of known chemicals. Furthermore, all living matter is the study of organic chemistry. This means that applications for analysis through organic chemistry are veritable and limitless.

From pharmaceuticals to natural resources and geology to chemical engineering, the results of organic chemistry are all around us. Unfortunately (or fortunately if this is not the case for you), organic chemistry is known by many as one of the “hardest” subjects taught in higher education. For those who can excel in the subject matter, a wide range of career opportunities and compensations are available.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $59,968
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $67,470
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $84,061

Ph.D. in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Biochemistry is the scientific study of chemical processes related to or within living organisms. Molecular biology is an approach to studying biological mechanisms from a molecular level.

Together these fields of study offer a uniquely fine-grained way of studying living systems. While Ph.D.s in biochemistry and molecular biology are highly specialized, they find employment in a surprisingly wide range of settings.

From state crime labs to pharmaceutical development projects, biochemists and molecular biologists are often some of the most crucial specialists for ascertaining what goes on in our body at a molecular and chemical level.

Additionally, Ph.D. programs in these disciplines may, of course, find employment in research and instruction in university settings.

With this wide range of employment settings, there is also a wide range of compensation for biochemists. For the top 10% of earners, however, the field can be quite lucrative, making it our 4th highest-paying doctoral degree for 2022 and 2023.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $67,506
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $73,701
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $82,048

SEE:  Doctor of Molecular Biology (PhD Mol Biol) Career Guide: Salary and Info

Ph.d. in computer science.

Computer science is the study of the theory of computation as well as the design of computational systems. Computer science as a field of study has nearly as many sub-disciplines are there are forms of computing technology.

Though many Ph.D. recipients in the field will have specialized in a handful of technologies or theoretical components related to computing, computer science is also an approach to problem-solving that lends itself to the solving of many engineering situations.

While many with computer science degrees will find themselves in roles such as software developers early in their career, gaining a doctoral degree in the discipline can help workers quickly advance to positions such as systems architect, researcher, or development positions in subdisciplines of computer science.

Particularly highly compensated subdisciplines within computer science include information assurance, machine learning, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, virtualization, and many others.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $117,667
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $130,949
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $149,109

SEE: Best Online Doctor of Computer Science Degree Programs

Ph.d. in economics.

Economics is the social science that is intent on studying the production, consumption, and distribution of services and goods. Economic analysis often falls into a variety of categories that a Ph.D. candidate in economics could choose to focus on.

Broadly, these segments of economic analysis include micro and macroeconomics, theoretical analysis and applied analysis, normative and positive economics, and rational and behavioral economics.

As with all social sciences, each competing school of thought offers its own insights, and many are highly sought after in many domains of industry and public life. Economic analysis is particularly sought after in fields such as education, health care, criminology, and finance, among others.

A Ph.D. in economics can, of course, also elect to work in research or academic settings depending on their skill set. While early-career earnings are quite solid for those with Ph.D.s in economics, those moving into consulting roles or finance can command much higher salaries.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $78,124
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $93,369
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $106,848

SEE:  Doctor of Economics (DEc) Career Guide: Salary and Info

Ph.d. in information assurance.

Information Assurance is a discipline just recently brought to prominence by the massive amount of data and information held in computing devices and networks. With the rise in prominence of the internet and connected devices, many corporations and public entities have been unable to keep up with cybersecurity demands.

As of 2019, over 1 million cybersecurity openings will be unfilled nationwide. Additionally, the average age of those currently working in cybersecurity is approaching 50, meaning a lack of younger talent.

Though they will still need hands-on experience at lower levels, Ph.D.s in information assurance are great candidates for being the go-to resource on cybersecurity for organizations. As such, being a Ph.D. in information assurance in many organizations could put you on a shortlist for advanced positions such as chief information security officer.

While the average early and mid-career salaries of information assurance Ph.D.s are quite strong, many C-Level information assurance roles can bring in $300,000+.

The top 10% of jobs for the highest-paying Ph.D. in Information Assurance bring in over $100,000 a year or more, making information assurance the highest-paying Ph.D. surveyed in this year’s ranking.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $86,682
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $96,249
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $106,915

SEE:  Doctor of Information Assurance (Ph.D. IA) Career Guide: Salary and Info

What is a ph.d..

First, we should clarify exactly what degrees we’re talking about. A Ph.D. is an abbreviation for Doctorate of Philosophy. Ph.D. holders obtain Doctorate of Philosophy degrees in some subjects. Though “Philosophy” is in the title, this is largely a historical artifact from when the study of philosophy encompassed most of the traditional arts and sciences.

Today, someone holding a Doctorate of Philosophy in Statistics will have mainly studied statistics and supporting disciplines within their course of study. The underlying spirit of the degree still applies, however.

“Philosophy” means “lover of wisdom,” while a doctorate is the highest degree in a university. Therefore, a doctorate of philosophy is the highest degree awarded to a “lover of wisdom” within the university system.

Typically this means that Ph.D. graduates have endeavored upon unique and substantial research in their field of choice and have attempted to advance their field of study.

While there is a range of common doctorate degrees, many are not Ph.D.s.

This usage of the term Ph.D.– though technically correct — is contrary to the common usage of the term. In ordinary conversation, Ph.D. and “Doctorate” are often used interchangeably. The main exception to this rule is that many people do distinguish between common professional degrees (including medicine and law) and more research-centered Ph.D.s.

In our investigation, we’re looking specifically at Ph.D.s, and not professional doctoral degrees. Though in many of the most lucrative Ph.D.s listed below, we do discuss the differences and similarities between Ph.D.s and professional degrees in the same subject.

Does job location matter when considering the highest-paying doctorate degrees?

In employment, location matters. In fact, along with your line of work, the location may be the single most significant determinant of compensation.

After all, the minimum wage in some cities approaches the average wage of earners in some states. The average hourly wage in America as a whole more than triples in a handful of the most populous cities.

In short, no conversation about payment of Ph.D. is complete without reference to where the said Ph.D. is working. While looking at the earnings of the entire population in locations is a good indicator of whether or not Ph.D.s may make more in an area, Ph.D.s tend to occupy a disproportionately high degree of jobs in the most lucrative fields in a region.

In a region rich with natural resource extraction, many Ph.D.’s are likely employed in geology or natural resources. In an area rich with information technology organizations, more Ph.D.s in computer science are probably employed.

This is partially accounted for by the trend of universities with large research presences in a field helping to foster entrepreneurship in a given field throughout the region. High concentrations of researchers and university funding help to create more business opportunities. In turn, this draws more talent to the universities in the region.

This is to say that average earnings within a region are at times not directly tied to Ph.D. earnings. Rather, an average salary in a region may be quite low, while opportunities for Ph.D. holders may be centered around the most well-supported industries specific to the region. With that said, many of the highest-earning cities and states in the nation are also the centers of highest compensation for Ph.D. graduates with doctoral degrees.

Does the industry matter when considering the highest-paying doctorate degrees?

The industry employing a Ph.D. holder is equally important (and often tied) to the location in which doctoral workers work when talking of compensation. While many top universities have highly regarded programs in many disciplines, many universities are known for just a handful of programs are the graduate level. This leads to geographic clusters of Ph.D.s in very different industries.

An example of the above may be seen in the following. The University of Iowa and the University of Mississippi are both well-known for their graduate programs in creative writing. A disproportionately high number of graduate degree holders in the vicinity of both universities are writers or writing instructors.

Even Ph.D.-level graduates in English literature don’t lead to as high of an income as say, chemical engineering. This industry discrepancy (among others) leads to great clusters of highest-paying doctoral degrees in California’s Bay Area, or Minnesota’s Twin Cities region (both of which are home to top-ranked chemical engineering schools).

Along with location, the industry in which a Ph.D. works is integrally tied to earning power. Below is a sampling of average earnings for the highest-paying doctoral degree by industry.

See also: Top Free (or Cheap!) Online Ph.D. Level Courses

Check this out for more information: Jobs That Require a Ph.D. or Doctorate Degree

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• How to Apply to the Online Graduate Business Programs
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Salary expectations for business graduates

Pursuing an MBA is a strategic move to boost your career and income. For perspective, while a bachelor's degree might yield median weekly earnings of $1,661 (as of 2022), those with an MBA—a widely recognized professional degree—can expect median weekly earnings of $2,080. 1 Those with a professional degree also have a lower unemployment rate than bachelor’s and high school graduates. 1

Digging deeper, the salary you earn is dependent on many things including the industry you work in, job market trends and the type of career you pursue.

In this article, we'll break down the factors that influence the MBA salary and highlight the job opportunities this degree can open up.

Factors influencing the average MBA salary

There’s great news for MBA graduates. According to a 2023 Bloomberg News survey conducted among alumni, students and employers, “the median gain in salary from students’ pre-MBA jobs to their first jobs out of business school in 2022 was $85,000.” 2

While discussing median wage average increases and MBAs, it's important to note the various elements that define MBA salaries. All of these factors are important to remember when you’re doing salary negotiations.

Influencing factors that can affect total compensation for job roles include:

• Industry-specific salaries
• Location-based pay
• Market compensation rates
• Negotiation skills
• Benefits and perks
• Job growth potential
• Economic outlook

Let’s take a closer look at a few of these factors.

Professional experience matters. As you gain more years in your field, you'll tackle real-world challenges that aren't covered in textbooks. Combining this experience with knowledge from MBA programs can make you a preferred candidate for employers.

This combination often results in higher salaries and potential performance bonuses and according to LinkedIn, “employees with extensive relevant experience demand a higher pay rate.” 3 The more specific the experience, the better the match. Knowing a company's pay structure can be an asset when negotiating your post-MBA salary.

Type of Role

Many roles, especially in sectors like the finance industry and business analytics, offer more than just a fixed salary. They might include performance bonuses, stock options or commissions.

According to Bloomberg News, the top industries for new MBA grads include:

• Financial services/accounting
• Health care/medical
• Consumer products 2

For MBA graduates, depending on the company and job role, there's an opportunity to earn a competitive base salary with added financial perks. Insights from MBA courses and programs that offer career support can guide you on which careers offer these lucrative benefits.

An advanced degree, like the MBA, often comes with increased salary expectations. Therefore, an MBA becomes an obvious choice for those looking to further their business education. MBAs from renowned and reputable business schools can give you an advantage during salary discussions.

Professional licensure or certification can also lead to higher salaries as can higher levels of education. Additionally, master's degrees in specific areas like marketing can also enhance your ability to negotiate for higher wages.

Accessing this education can be easier with the proper support. According to a research report by the Society for Human Resource Management, 56% of employers offer educational assistance benefits. 4 Educational assistance can take the form of partial or full tuition coverage, scholarships and more.

Make sure to check out the benefits offered by different organizations when you’re looking for an MBA that will help you enhance your career options.

Your MBA degree salary can go further depending on where you’re located. Although location doesn’t have as big of an impact on wages as other factors, your salary can go further based on geographic demand for a job and the average cost of living in an area.

As the Brookings Institute explains, “A worker in a metro area with a relatively low cost of living (e.g., Dallas) might think twice before accepting a slightly better-paying position in a metro area with a higher cost of living (e.g., San Francisco).” 5 You might also consider income or sales taxes, as well as public amenities like libraries, cultural centers and other attractions.

Comparing MBA and BSBA salaries: Decoding the salary landscape

When navigating the business world, one of the common crossroads that professionals often encounter is whether to stick with a bachelor’s degree in business, like a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA), or to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA).

While the allure of an MBA is undeniable, there are several facets of the decision to be evaluated.

Let’s explore how the two degrees stack up against each other, particularly in terms of salary expectations.

Average starting salary: BSBA vs. MBA comparison

In the evolving business world, many face the pivotal decision of whether to continue with their Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) or to elevate their potential by pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA).

While both offer valuable insights into the business realm, the MBA degree clearly shines in several aspects, especially when we consider salary expectations. Let's deep dive into the financial dividends of these degrees to better understand their worth—and why pursuing an MBA, post-undergrad, could make a good return on your investment.

The starting salary for a BSBA graduate is influenced by various factors including specialization, industry and location. However, when juxtaposed with the average MBA starting salary, it's evident that the latter frequently boasts a more lucrative package.

Citing data from the National Association of Colleges and Employers, in 2021, business majors with a bachelor's degree had a median starting salary of around $57,000. 6 On the other hand, the Graduate Management Admission Council reported that MBA graduates reported an average starting salary of over $115,000 in 2022. 7

It's worth noting that pursuing an MBA, especially from top-ranked MBA programs, often comes with a notable tuition fee. However, when weighing this against the potentially higher salaries, job opportunities and performance bonuses, many see the MBA as a sound investment for their future.

Job market trends and industry-specific salaries

Holding a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) paves the way for opportunities across various sectors, enabling business majors to explore a multitude of job roles. Yet, to truly stand out for high-paying roles, particularly in finance, consulting and tech sectors, an MBA degree can help propel you to the forefront. 2

It’s also important to note that with the dynamic shifts in the business landscape, there's a burgeoning demand for roles centered on business analytics, digital marketing and sustainability.

By pursuing an MBA with updated course offerings tailored to these emerging trends, you not only position yourself as a preferred candidate but also unlock potential salary brackets that rival, if not surpass, those of a traditional MBA.

The bigger picture: Benefits, perks and job growth potential

Average MBA salaries and starting salaries for BSBA graduates are good barometers, but they're merely a segment of the complete compensation panorama.

To fully evaluate potential earnings, prospective MBA students and BSBA graduates should consider the entire compensation package. This package might encompass signing bonuses, stock options and performance bonuses.

For instance, MBA hires in leading technology companies often receive generous signing bonuses and stock options. In contrast, BSBA graduates, particularly in start-ups, might value the exponential job growth potential and dynamic work environment.

In the grand scheme, while a bachelor's degree in business administration lays a robust foundation for fresh entrants into the business world, an MBA degree amplifies one's credentials, offering the potential of not just higher salaries but also a broader spectrum of job opportunities and professional growth. 8

Today, numerous firms provide further education benefits, presenting an opportunity for BSBA graduates to consider an online MBA program or a specialized master's degree, enriching their skillset without the substantial costs. 4

Looking ahead: Navigating your business career path

Embarking on your journey in the business world with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration is an excellent foundation. However, for those aiming for the zenith of professional growth and the highest average salaries, MBA degrees from renowned business schools can act as a catalyst.

This advanced degree, particularly from accredited MBA programs, amplifies your credentials and can help better position you for not only higher salaries but also for leadership roles, high-paying jobs and unparalleled job opportunities in competitive sectors. 8

To navigate your business career successfully, it's essential to stay attuned to job market trends and industry-specific salary data. Yet, above all, aligning with an academic path that resonates with your aspirations and long-term goals is paramount.

While the BSBA provides a strong base, the MBA degree remains the pinnacle for those looking to attain the highest echelons of the corporate realm.

Harness the power of an online MBA from Marquette University

The Marquette online MBA from the Marquette University Graduate School of Management goes beyond standard practices, ensuring that you’re not just career-ready, but also equipped to be a change-maker. As industries evolve, the demand for strategic, ethically-driven business leaders intensifies. 9

With a curriculum emphasizing business literacy, strategy and leadership , you become that sought-after graduate. You'll harness insights from the same distinguished faculty that graces their top-ranked on-campus programs, guaranteeing a learning experience infused with real-world relevance and academic rigor.

Several compelling reasons underpin why a Marquette online MBA stands out:

• Limitless future
• Tailored for success
• Immediate ROI
• Diverse course offerings
• Commitment to ethics
• Streamlined path

When you couple all these advantages with the possibility of accelerating your program based on your undergraduate business studies, the Marquette online MBA truly emerges as an unparalleled choice for ambitious professionals.

Ready to redefine your professional future? Dive deeper into Marquette's transformative online MBA program. Speak with an admissions outreach advisor today and pave your path to unparalleled success.

• Retrieved on October 2, 2023, from www.bls.gov/emp/chart-unemployment-earnings-education.htm
• Retrieved on October 2, 2023, from bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-03-10/mba-starting-salaries-fail-to-keep-up-with-inflation
• Retrieved on October 2, 2023, from linkedin.com/pulse/what-determines-your-pay-rate-jobs-experience-matthew-borthwick/
• Retrieved on October 2, 2023, from www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/tools-and-samples/toolkits/pages/educationalassistanceprograms.aspx
• Retrieved on October 2, 2023, from www.brookings.edu/research/where-work-pays-how-does-where-you-live-matter-for-your-earnings
• Retrieved on October 2, 2023, from www.naceweb.org/uploadedFiles/files/2022/publication/executive-summary/nace-2022-summer-salary-survey-executive-summary.pdf
• Retrieved on October 2, 2023, from mba.com/business-school-and-careers/salary-and-roi/guide-to-your-average-mba-salary
• Retrieved on October 2, 2023, from usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/articles/hot-jobs-for-mba-graduates
• Retrieved on October 2, 2023, from investopedia.com/ask/answers/040815/why-are-business-ethics-important.asp

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