Online PhD in Business Administration | National University

Online PhD in Business Administration | National University
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Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration (PhD-BA)
100% online PhD-BA
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40 months to your PhD-BA
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Program Overview
Degree Requirements
Career Outlook
Learning Outcomes
Admissions
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Programs
Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration
Program Overview
Degree Requirements
Career Outlook
Learning Outcomes
Admissions
Why National University?
Accelerate Your Career With NU
FAQs
Take the first step in your National University Journey
Request Info
Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration
Degree:
Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration (PhD-BA) Degree
Application:
$0 application fee. No essays/exams.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Business (PhD-BA) program is a research-based program designed to prepare leaders for positions in the private and public sectors by enhancing knowledge and competencies appropriate to a leadership role in business, administration, and technology management. Upon completion of the PhD program, students are expected to have a broad knowledge in fields of business and technology management and an understanding of at least one specialized area of study.
A Ph.D. requires
original ideas
about a specialized topic, as well as a high degree of
methodological/scientific rigor
(Nelson, & Coorough, 1994). As is traditional in higher education, a Ph.D. is only awarded for a piece of work that will actually make a difference to the theoretical context of the field
the Ph.D. dissertation is a new contribution to the body of knowledge
Enhance and Advance the Global Economy
The PhD-BA at National University is a research-based program designed to prepare you for positions in the private and public sectors by enhancing knowledge and competencies appropriate to a leadership role in business, administration, and technology management.
You can tailor your NU online PhD-BA to match your interests with one of these 10 specializations:
Advanced Accounting
Financial Management
Global Business Management
Health Services Specialization
Homeland Security: Leadership & Policy (HS)
Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Information Technology
Organizational Leadership
Project Management
Strategic Marketing
Degree Requirements
Admission to the Doctorate programs requires a master’s degree from an accredited institution.
The University may accept a maximum of 12 semester credit hours in transfer toward the doctoral degree for graduate coursework completed at an accredited college or university with a grade of “B” or better.
The PhD degree programs in business have the following graduation requirements:
A minimum of 48 credit hours of graduate instruction must be completed through the University
Grade Point Average of 3.0 (letter grade of “B”) or higher
Satisfactory completion of the PhD-BA Pre-Candidacy Prospectus
University Approval of Dissertation Manuscript and Oral Defense completed
Submission of the approved final dissertation manuscript to the University Registrar, including the original unbound dissertation manuscript and an electronic copy
Official documents on file for basis of admission: a conferred master’s degree from an accredited academic institution
Official transcripts on file for all transfer credit hours accepted by the University
All financial obligations must be met before the student will be issued their complimentary diploma
Course Details
Credit Hours:
60
Courses:
20
Estimated Time to Complete:
40 Months
The Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration (PhD-BA) program requires the completion of 60 credits. Each foundational course runs for 8 weeks, while dissertation courses have a minimum duration of 12 weeks.
The PhD program requires a minimum of 60 credits. Additional credit hours may be allowed as needed to complete the dissertation research. If granted, additional courses will be added to the student degree program in alignment with the SAP and Academic Maximum Time to Completion policies. Students who do not complete their program in accordance with these policies may be dismissed.
Courses taken to satisfy the fundamental requirements may not be counted toward completion of required specializations courses or electives.
Students who complete at least 15 credit hours in a single area of specialization at NU (not counting foundational courses) may elect to have the specialization recorded on their transcript and diploma. Students may also opt for a General Business specialization, electing 15 credit hours of cross-discipline courses. Elective courses must be appropriate to the student’s degree program.
The PhD in Business requires a minimum of five core courses, five specialization courses, two statistical courses, five research courses, and one doctoral elective course. Upon completion of these course requirements, students advance to the doctoral sequence of courses. A minimum of four dissertation research courses must be completed in order to complete the program.
Required Foundational Courses must be taken first and in sequence. Evaluation track students will take SKS-7001 after BUS-7101 and before BUS-7110. Following the completion of Foundational, Specialization, Research, and Doctoral Elective courses must be taken in sequence as described.
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Course Sequence
20 Courses
3 Credits
This course serves as an introduction to the PhD–BA and as the foundation for further doctoral-level study in business. The PhD–BA degree is designed to encourage you to become a scholar-practitioner, using business theory to inform further scholarly inquiry and positively impact business practices. You will examine requirements for the degree—including each milestone and deliverable—and will develop a plan for achieving your academic and research goals. This preparation will be done in the context of an examination of modern trends in business theory and in beginning the transition from being consumers of knowledge to being producers of knowledge.
3 Credits
Students will analyze and apply knowledge in 12 business areas necessary to address a wide variety of business-related situations. The focus of the course is demonstrating core proficiencies in the following business areas: Marketing, Business Finance, Accounting, Management, Legal Environment of Business, Economics, Business Ethics, Global Dimensions of Business, Information Systems, Quantitative Techniques and Statistics, Leadership, and Business Applications. The intent is not to introduce these core business concepts, but rather to verify a graduate-level threshold competency within each. The course includes a comprehensive case study that will allow students to demonstrate their competency within all 12 professional component areas.
3 Credits
It is important for scholar-practitioners to understand both the internal and external influences on business—the business environment. In this course, students will examine theories related to those environmental factors including business ethics, international business, and marketing. Internal environmental factors include management and organizational behavior.
3 Credits
The allied fields of economics, accounting, and finance are key areas where a highly knowledgeable leader can greatly contribute to the success of a business. Financial professionals secure and manage the money needed to run a business; economists determine how markets will react in certain situations; and accountants provide analysis and accountability to the entire process. In this course, scholar-practitioners will work towards information fluency in theories related to these critical knowledge areas.
3 Credits
Good plans aligned against clear strategic goals can help business leaders achieve those goals. This course is an overview of the theories involved in strategic planning to aid business. Students will explore the difference between strategic thinking and strategic planning, how to choose a strategy that is right for each business, and how to design a strategic plan. This course will investigate how to analyze customers and the competition and ask key questions that help design the most effective strategic plan for each business.
Specialization Course 1
Specialization Course 2
Specialization Course 3
Specialization Course 4
Specialization Course 5
Doctoral Level Elective #1
3 Credits
In this course, you will engage in the process of scholarly literature reviews and academic writing. With an emphasis on how to (a) conduct effective literature searches, specifically in preparation for the dissertation, (b) develop a plan for writing comprehensive, critical, and synthesized reviews of research literature, and (c) critically review and write about underlying theory/conceptual frameworks, you will develop a foundation for future research. The overarching goal of this course is for you to conduct an exhaustive search of the peer-reviewed research literature in your topic area and identify potential areas of inquiry for your dissertation.
3 Credits
In this course, you will cultivate a statistical mindset through learning and nurturing skills needed to perform and interpret univariate inferential statistics. The course will facilitate building your statistical confidence in assessing and performing statistics. The course will cover univariate parametric and non-parametric statistical tests, interpretation of statistical output, and introduce skills needed to select statistical tests based on quantitative research questions.
3 Credits
In this course, you will learn advanced statistical principles and how to apply them to quantitative research in the study of organizations. You will be provided an overview of advanced statistical concepts used in empirical research, including inferential analysis. Advanced computations will be performed using commonly used statistical software. The focus involves helping you build independent scholarly skills with an emphasis on understanding multivariate data; the use, comprehension, and evaluation of sophisticated statistical concepts, and presentation of statistical results.
3 Credits
During this course, as a scholar-practitioner, you will build the skills essential for designing quantitative studies; analyzing the data collected in these studies, and interpreting the results of data analyses. You will explore designs and statistical techniques to use with their envisioned dissertation research.
3 Credits
During this course, you will examine qualitative methods for studying human behavior including grounded theory, narrative analysis, ethnography, mixed methods, and case studies. You will explore designs and methodologies to use with your envisioned research.
3 Credits
The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is intended to ensure students have mastered knowledge of their discipline prior to candidacy status and demonstrated the ability to design empirical research as an investigator before moving on to the dissertation research coursework. Students will demonstrate the ability to synthesize empirical, peer-reviewed research to support all assignments in this course. The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is completed only after all foundation, specialization, and research courses have been completed.
3 Credits
In this course, students will complete Chapters 1 and 2 of their Dissertation Proposal. Chapter 1 includes a brief review of the literature with substantiating evidence of the problem, the research purpose and questions, the intended methodological design and approach, and the significance of the study, while Chapter 2 consists of the literature review, including the theoretical/conceptual framework. Completed and committee-approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 are required to pass this course successfully.
3 Credits
In this course, students will complete Chapter 3 and their Dissertation Proposal (DP). Chapter 3 includes the research methodology and design, population, sample, measurement instruments, data collection and analysis, limitations, and ethical considerations. Students will then assemble their Dissertation Proposal including all appendices necessary. A completed, committee-approved Chapter 3 and a final approved Dissertation Proposal (against the minimum rubric standards) are required by the end of the course.
3 Credits
In this course, students will prepare, submit, and obtain approval of their IRB application. After obtaining IRB approval, students will collect data and submit a data collection verification form when data collection is complete. Students will begin synthesizing collected data and analyzing results. IRB study approval and a completed data collection verification form are required by the end of the course.
3 Credits
In this course, students will complete Chapters 4 and 5, followed by their Dissertation Manuscript. Chapter 4 includes presenting study results aligned to the research design and research questions and/or hypotheses. Chapter 5 includes study implications, recommendations, and conclusions. Students will then compile and present findings in the completed Dissertation Manuscript and in an Oral Defense. A completed, committee-approved Chapter 5, Dissertation Manuscript, and successful Oral Defense (against the minimum rubric standards) are required to complete the course and graduate.
Specializations
Project Management
This specialization explores principles, concepts, tools, and techniques to improve project performance and organizational effectiveness. Students examine all aspects of managing and overseeing business projects, including cost estimates, budget management, cost control, risk assessment, bid negotiation and contracts, and performance reporting critical to the success of any enterprise. The specialization focuses on management, leadership, and team building in the project/program environment. Students will examine strategies relating to managing multiple projects as well as the concepts of earned value project management.
Specialization Courses
– 15 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.
Organizational Leadership
This specialization serves to enhance the understanding and practice of organizational leadership using an interdisciplinary approach between business and education theory and research. This specialization has broad appeal among practicing professionals (middle and upper management, and military personnel) with a background in business administration, human resources, nonprofit administration, and related fields, whose professional goal may be organizational consulting or a generalist leadership position in corporate, government, not-for-profit, educational or community organizations.
Specialization Courses
– 15 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.
Industrial/Organizational Psychology
This specialization explores the application of industrial and organizational psychology and management theory to the understanding of people in work environment. In this interdisciplinary specialization, students complete courses in the School of Business and the School of Psychology in order to develop competencies in theory, research, and applications of psychology related to human behavior in organizations. Students conduct advanced research related to the application of organizational and psychological theory to human resource management.
Specialization Courses
– 15 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.
Homeland Security: Leadership and Policy
This specialization prepares senior leaders of public administration, law enforcement, public safety, and emergency medical care and disaster preparedness agencies for executive leadership positions in the field of homeland security. This specialization focuses on rigorous research exploring advanced concepts and methods, and applying theory and emerging concepts through innovative approaches to complex problems. Students may choose from a variety of courses in terrorism, strategy, intelligence, emergency management, and critical infrastructure security issues.
Specialization Courses
– 15 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.
Health Services
This specialization develops essential perspectives and skills for health service industry management issues. The specialization prepares students for problem identification and resolution, analysis and intervention as administrative issues, and recognition of the constraints and limitations to intervention and change in delivery systems. Students in this specialization will focus on the foundations of health services management, including an overview of the United States healthcare delivery system, financial management and economics, human resource management, quality management, and law, ethics, and policy.
Specialization Courses
– 15 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.
Financial Management
This specialization concentrates on research and development analyses used to manage and allocate financial resources and develop effective strategic planning for projection and ROI issues. Students will analyze financial and non-financial organizations — private, public, and corporate. The specialization focuses on international financial issues, quality concepts in financial management, and accounting for profit/nonprofit organizations.
Advanced Accounting
This specialization provides students with application of a broad accounting perspective and research based accounting knowledge, enabling the exploration of relationships among business activities, economic outcomes, business performance, and forensic analysis. Students will be able to meet the demand for advanced analysis of management and organization of business transactions and statements related to the assets, liabilities, and operating results of business enterprises, nonprofit organizations, and higher education instruction.
Global Business Management
This specialization covers the essential elements required to understand and manage global organizations. Individuals interested in global management positions in industry, higher education, government and public entities, and business consulting would benefit from this program. The specialization provides students with comprehensive education and training in interdisciplinary global management subjects of leadership, government, diplomacy, economics, finance, marketing, and organizational effectiveness. Students study global business theory, decision-making, and problem-solving techniques related to global strategic planning.
Specialization Courses
– 15 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.
Information Technology
Technology can be intimidating — yet beneficial — for many organizations. It is important for leaders to know how to take advantage of new technologies and ideas or be trapped in stagnation. The Information Technology Specialization helps prepare professionals to be champions of positive change through new ideas and new technologies.
Specialization Courses
– 15 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.
Strategic Marketing
The Strategic Marketing Specialization at the doctoral level delivers a next-generation approach to strategic marketing, transcending traditional marketing management, and research methodology. This tertiary level specialization delivers benchmark training in the three pillars of global change leadership, marketing science, and innovation in marketing economics. Following the execution of strategic coursework, students will focus on real-world global product strategy, advanced digital marketing across the entire scope of the product life cycle. The specialization provides strategies for a sound, systematic, ethical, and legal approach to contemporary and emergent marketing practices. At the conclusion, students will be well prepared to lead the marketing workforce of tomorrow.
Specialization Courses
– 15 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.
Career Outlook
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Here are some careers this degree could prepare you for:
Please select the state you will work in to view job data in your area
Top Jobs in this field
Median Salary
Job Openings
Chief Executives
$174,218
avg. salary (USA)
23,770
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Determine and formulate policies and provide overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body. Plan, direct, or coordinate operational activities at the highest level of management with the help of subordinate executives and staff managers.
Median Salary:
$174,218
annual
+262%
above US average
Job Openings:
23,770
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$57,584
Medium
$174,218
High
$471,233
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Finance
Accounting
Project Management
Marketing
Public Administration
Auditing
Financial Statements
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
Capital One
Lumen Technologies
State of Washington
YMCA
City of New York
KPMG
New York City
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
General and Operations Managers
$102,567
avg. salary (USA)
310,717
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of public or private sector organizations, overseeing multiple departments or locations. Duties and responsibilities include formulating policies, managing daily operations, and planning the use of materials and human resources, but are too diverse and general in nature to be classified in any one functional area of management or administration, such as personnel, purchasing, or administrative services. Usually manage through subordinate supervisors. Excludes First-Line Supervisors.
Median Salary:
$102,567
annual
+113%
above US average
Job Openings:
310,717
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$47,129
Medium
$102,567
High
$246,142
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Operations Management
Marketing
Finance
Project Management
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Continuous Improvement Process
Process Improvement
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
CVS Health
AutoZone
Enterprise Mobility
Amazon
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Domino's Pizza
Lumen Technologies
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Sales Managers
$136,962
avg. salary (USA)
48,643
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Plan, direct, or coordinate the actual distribution or movement of a product or service to the customer. Coordinate sales distribution by establishing sales territories, quotas, and goals and establish training programs for sales representatives. Analyze sales statistics gathered by staff to determine sales potential and inventory requirements and monitor the preferences of customers.
Median Salary:
$136,962
annual
+184%
above US average
Job Openings:
48,643
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$66,017
Medium
$136,962
High
$298,582
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Marketing
Sales Management
Business Development
Selling Techniques
Customer Relationship Management
Sales Prospecting
Sales Strategy
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
AutoZone
Ross Stores
Hilton
US Foods
Wolters Kluwer
Fisher Investments
Fujifilm
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Administrative Services Managers
$108,251
avg. salary (USA)
23,090
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Plan, direct, or coordinate one or more administrative services of an organization, such as records and information management, mail distribution, and other office support services.
Median Salary:
$108,251
annual
+125%
above US average
Job Openings:
23,090
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$64,629
Medium
$108,251
High
$200,151
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Office Management
Accounting
Billing
Accounts Receivable
Collections
Finance
Administrative Support
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
Aramark
Brookdale Senior Living
Cintas
City of New York
Genesis HealthCare
Cushman & Wakefield
Genesis Administrative Services
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Facilities Managers
$104,158
avg. salary (USA)
13,204
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Plan, direct, or coordinate operations and functionalities of facilities and buildings. May include surrounding grounds or multiple facilities of an organization's campus.
Median Salary:
$104,158
annual
+116%
above US average
Job Openings:
13,204
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$62,166
Medium
$104,158
High
$173,956
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Facility Management
HVAC
Project Management
Construction
Plumbing
Facility Repair And Maintenance
Preventive Maintenance
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
CBRE
JLL
Cardinal Health
Cushman & Wakefield
Uline
Sodexo
Compass Group
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Industrial Production Managers
$119,343
avg. salary (USA)
18,185
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Plan, direct, or coordinate the work activities and resources necessary for manufacturing products in accordance with cost, quality, and quantity specifications.
Median Salary:
$119,343
annual
+148%
above US average
Job Openings:
18,185
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$72,894
Medium
$119,343
High
$197,450
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Continuous Improvement Process
Lean Manufacturing
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Process Improvement
Supply Chain
Manufacturing Operations
Production Management
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
GE Aerospace
Boeing
Pond & Company
Accenture
Lilly
Sumitomo Pharma
Merck & Co.
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Transportation and Storage Managers
$100,722
avg. salary (USA)
19,490
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Plan, direct, or coordinate transportation, storage, or distribution activities in accordance with organizational policies and applicable government laws or regulations. Includes logistics managers.
Median Salary:
$100,722
annual
+109%
above US average
Job Openings:
19,490
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$60,238
Medium
$100,722
High
$180,153
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Warehousing
Supply Chain
Inventory Management
Continuous Improvement Process
Warehouse Operations
Operations Management
Process Improvement
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
Walmart
Amazon
US Foods
Domino's Pizza
ArcBest
Cardinal Health
Tesla
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Compensation and Benefits Managers
$140,371
avg. salary (USA)
1,461
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Plan, direct, or coordinate compensation and benefits activities of an organization.
Median Salary:
$140,371
annual
+192%
above US average
Job Openings:
1,461
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$81,601
Medium
$140,371
High
$289,021
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Finance
Project Management
Auditing
Marketing
Human Resources Information System (HRIS)
Billing
Benefits Enrollment Processes
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
CVS Health
Marsh McLennan
KPMG
Willis Towers Watson
Elevance Health
Domino's Pizza
Sedgwick
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Human Resources Managers
$139,155
avg. salary (USA)
18,444
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Plan, direct, or coordinate human resources activities and staff of an organization.
Median Salary:
$139,155
annual
+189%
above US average
Job Openings:
18,444
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$82,953
Medium
$139,155
High
$297,937
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Employee Relations
Performance Management
Human Resources Information System (HRIS)
Employee Engagement
Talent Management
Labor Law
Workforce Planning
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
General Motors
Amazon
Hilton
PricewaterhouseCoopers
Cengage Learning
Lumen Technologies
CVS Health
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Management Analysts
$101,247
avg. salary (USA)
101,114
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Conduct organizational studies and evaluations, design systems and procedures, conduct work simplification and measurement studies, and prepare operations and procedures manuals to assist management in operating more efficiently and effectively. Includes program analysts and management consultants.
Median Salary:
$101,247
annual
+110%
above US average
Job Openings:
101,114
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$53,191
Medium
$101,247
High
$221,887
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Project Management
Business Process
Business Requirements
Data Analysis
Workflow Management
Business Analysis
SQL (Programming Language)
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
Wells Fargo
Cardinal Health
CVS Health
Accenture
Prime Therapeutics
PNC
JPMorgan Chase
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Project Management Specialists
$100,498
avg. salary (USA)
78,283
job openings (past yr.)
past year
Analyze and coordinate the schedule, timeline, procurement, staffing, and budget of a product or service on a per project basis. Lead and guide the work of technical staff. May serve as a point of contact for the client or customer.
Median Salary:
$100,498
annual
+109%
above US average
Job Openings:
78,283
past year
Salary Range:
Low
$59,286
Medium
$100,498
High
$168,033
ALl of USA
Most Desired Skills
Project Management
Construction
Construction Management
Subcontracting
Project Schedules
Change Orders
Project Documentation
ALl of USA
Top Companies Hiring
CVS Health
Entergy
Lumen Technologies
CBRE
Jacobs Solutions
Stantec
AECOM
Data Source:
The career outcomes data presented is sourced from
Lightcast
, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their
Data Overview
Program Learning Outcomes
As a graduate of National University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration (PhD-BA) program, you’ll be able to:
Develop
business knowledge based on a synthesis of current theory
Defend
theories, applications, and perspectives related to business to diverse audiences
Evaluate
business practices that positively impact society
Evaluate
the relationship between the global environment and business decisions
Formulate
solutions to problems identified in extant business research
Admissions
Transfer Students Welcome
More about transferring to NU.
Enrolling in a university is a big decision. That’s why our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and help you find the right program for you and your career goals.
To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.
Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.
To speak with our admissions team, call
(855) 355-6288
or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply start your application today.
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Scholarships and Financial Aid
National University is dedicated to making higher education affordable, as well as accessible. Through NU scholarship offerings, eligible students are able to reduce the financial burden of college, start classes sooner, and finish their programs faster while focusing on achieving their goals.
Helping You Save Money
1:1 assistance for navigating the financial aid process, generous transfer credit policy, needs-based tuition reduction grant, and $77+ million in scholarships.
National University Key Grant
Do you qualify for a needs-based scholarship? Learn more about the NU Key Grant Scholarship and other scholarship opportunities to unlock the door to your dreams!
Accreditations
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.
*The Ph.D. BA program is accredited by ACBSP; however, the Applied Computer Science, Computer and Information Security, Healthcare Administration, Industrial Organizational Psychology, Management of Engineering and Technology, and Management Information Systems, specializations are not.
As a leading accreditation association for business education, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) “develops, promotes, and recognizes best practices that contribute to continuous improvement of business education.” The Association emphasizes the importance of “learning how to learn,” balancing teaching and research activities to enhance the quality of classroom instruction and contribute to student learning. To learn more about the ACBSP, visit their website.
Why National University?
We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners.
Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 250,000 alumni worldwide.
“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”
Francisco R.,
Class of 2016
What makes a degree
with National University unique?
Free Tutoring Sessions
Access personalized tutoring sessions at no cost — empowering your learning.
Online
Flexibility meets quality education with our online learning option.
24/7 Support
Get assistance anytime, anywhere with our round-the-clock support services.
Military Friendly
Committed to serving those who serve — diverse resources and support for veterans and family.
Military and Veteran Admissions.
Mentoring Network
Individual student and alumni career guidance, professional development opportunities, and customized career support.
Transfer Students Welcome
NU makes it easy to get your degree, even if you started it with another university.
Learn more about transferring to NU
Accelerate Your Career With NU
At National University, you’re part of a family. As a student, you’ll have the support of staff, faculty members, students, and alumni who will be there with you every step of the way, cheering you on as you pursue your goals.
Our network of 250,000 alumni is a large global community that provides our graduates with the professional connections to get a leg up in your new career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Earning your PhD in Business Administration from National University can lead to a variety of careers, including jobs in academia, research, and consulting. With this degree, you could teach at a university, conduct research for an organization or government agency, or consult for a corporation or non-profit organization. Having a PhD under your belt can also lead to higher salaries and better job security.
Deciding whether to pursue a PhD in business administration depends on your career goals and personal circumstances. If you want to teach at a university or do research, a PhD can be beneficial. Adding to your knowledge bank and picking up new skills can only help your in your career journey, but earning a doctorate is a significant commitment. Consider your goals and situation before deciding if a PhD is right for you.
The main difference between a DBA and a PhD in business administration is what they focus on. A PhD program is usually focused on academic research and teaching, while a DBA program is focused on using research to solve business problems in the real world. A PhD program usually requires writing a dissertation, while a DBA program typically requires  completing a capstone or research project.
Admission to the Doctorate programs requires a master’s degree from an accredited institution.
The University may accept a maximum of 12 semester credit hours in transfer toward the doctoral degree for graduate coursework completed at an accredited college or university with a grade of “B” or better.
The PhD degree programs in business have the following graduation requirements:
A minimum of 48 credit hours of graduate instruction must be completed through NU
Grade Point Average of 3.0 (letter grade of “B”) or higher
Satisfactory completion of the PhD-BA Pre-Candidacy Prospectus
University Approval of Dissertation Manuscript and Oral Defense completed
Submission of the approved final dissertation manuscript to the University Registrar, including the original unbound dissertation manuscript and an electronic copy
Official documents on file for basis of admission: a conferred master’s degree from an accredited academic institution
Official transcripts on file for all transfer credit hours accepted by the University
All financial obligations must be met before the student will be issued their diploma and/or degree posted transcript.
Administrative Services Managers/Directors
Business Teacher
Chief Executives
General and Operations Managers/Directors
Industrial Production Managers/Directors
Loss Prevention Managers/Directors
Market Research Analysts
Operations Research Managers/Directors
Postsecondary Management Analysts
Regulatory Affairs Managers/Directors
Sales Managers/Directors
Security Managers/Directors
Social and Community Service Managers/Directors
Storage and Distribution Managers/Directors
Supply Chain Managers/Directors
Transportation Managers/Directors
*Positions may require additional experience, training, and other factors beyond successfully completing this degree program. Depending on where you reside, many positions may also require state licensure, and it is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all licensure requirements are met. We encourage you to also review program specific requirements with an NU advisor. Any data provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee that completion of any degree program will achieve the underlying occupation or commensurate salary.
Faculty assist each NU Doctoral candidate to reach this academic goal through a systematic process leading to a high-quality completed dissertation. A PhD dissertation is a scholarly documentation of research that makes an original contribution to the field of study. This process requires care in choosing a topic, documenting its importance, planning the methodology, and conducting the research. These activities lead smoothly into the writing and oral presentation of the dissertation.
A doctoral candidate must be continuously enrolled throughout the series of dissertation courses. Dissertation courses are automatically scheduled and accepted without a break in scheduling to ensure that students remain in continuous enrollment throughout the dissertation course sequence. If additional time is required to complete any of the dissertation courses, students must re-enroll and pay the tuition for that course. Continuous enrollment will only be permitted when students demonstrate progress toward completing dissertation requirements. The Dissertation Committee determines progress.
The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
As a leading accreditation association for business education, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) “develops, promotes, and recognizes best practices that contribute to continuous improvement of business education.” The Association emphasizes the importance of “learning how to learn,” balancing teaching and research activities to enhance the quality of classroom instruction and contribute to student learning. To learn more about the ACBSP,
visit their website
Program Disclosure
Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.
Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.
NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.
All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.
National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.
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