Salary of DBA Graduates in 2025 (India vs International)
By upGrad
Updated on Aug 29, 2025 | 11 min read | 901.43K+ views
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In 2025, the salary of a Doctor of Business Administration varies significantly between India and abroad. In India, a professional can earn up to approx. INR 60L after a DBA degree if applied for C-suite roles, while internationally, it can reach up to $300,000.
This blog covers the DBA degree salary in India across various job profiles, key differences between PhD vs DBA salary, DBA salary abroad and a lot more. So, let's get in!
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What Is the Salary of DBA Graduates by Job Role in India in 2025?
A DBA degree helps professionals learn advanced business and leadership skills, preparing them for roles ranging from Management Analyst to top C-suite positions. Although a DBA degree salary isn’t fixed because it depends on various factors like job role, experience, and industry.
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- Executive DBA from the Swiss School of Business and Management
- DBA from Edgewood University
- Dual DBA & MBA from Edgewood University
Below is the table providing salary after the DBA degree across the various job profile
Job Role |
Average Salary (INR) |
Notes |
| Management Analyst | ₹8-18 Lakh | Mid-career strategic roles in corporations |
| Business Consultant | ₹3-28 Lakh | Advises companies on growth and strategy |
| Senior Manager / Director | ₹28-1 Crore | Leadership roles with high responsibility |
| C-Suite Executive (CEO, CFO, COO) | up to ₹1 Crore | Top-level management roles leveraging DBA expertise |
| University Professor / Research Head | ₹4-36 Lakh | Academic and research-oriented positions |
Source: Glassdoor, Ambition box
What Is the Entry-Level vs Experienced Salary of DBA Professionals in India?
The Doctor of Business Administration salary in India varies widely depending on experience, role, and industry. While a DBA degree salary starts modestly for entry-level roles, it increases significantly as professionals move into senior and executive positions.
Experience Level |
Average Salary (INR) |
Typical Roles |
Entry-Level (0-3 yrs) |
₹10-17 Lakh | Management Analyst, Consultant |
Mid-Level (4-8 yrs) |
₹18-28 Lakh | Senior Manager, Strategic Consultant |
Experienced (8+ yrs) |
₹28-60 Lakh | Director, C-Suite Executive, Academic Head |
Source: Glassdoor
How Do DBA Salaries in India Differ by Cities, Industry, and Work Experience?
The salary of a DBA professional in India depends on many factors, including the city, industry and experience of the individual. Knowing this can help DBA graduates choose the right career and feel more confident when talking about salary during job offers.
How Does DBA Degree Salary Vary by City in India?
The average salary for a Doctor of Business Administration differs across India’s major cities:
Typical Roles |
Avg Salary in Mumbai (₹ LPA) |
Avg Salary in Bangalore (₹ LPA) |
Avg Salary in Pune (₹ LPA) |
| Management Consultant | ₹10-45 | ₹12-43 | ₹9-50 |
| Senior Business Analyst | ₹6-25 | ₹6-28 | ₹6-27 |
| Corporate Strategy Manager | ₹12-42 | ₹14.3-52 | ₹7.2-31 |
| IT / Tech Product Manager | ₹7.2-40 | ₹12-49 | ₹11-46.3 |
Source: Ambition Box
These figures highlight that location plays a crucial role in determining DBA salary in India, making city choice an important consideration for career planning.
Which Industries in India Offer the Best Salaries to DBA Graduates?
Top-paying industries for Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) graduates in India include:
- Consulting & Strategy: High-paying roles in management consulting offer ₹25-35 LPA.
- Banking & Financial Services: Senior positions provide ₹20-32 LPA.
- Information Technology & Startups: Roles in product management, analytics, and strategy pay ₹16-30 LPA.
- Healthcare & Pharma: Executive roles command ₹18-28 LPA.
How Does Work Experience Affect DBA Salary Growth in India?
- Experience Matters: DBA salary in India grows as professionals gain more managerial and leadership experience.
- Higher Roles, Higher Pay: With experience, DBAs move into senior executive and strategic positions.
- Career Advancement: Work experience enhances opportunities for long-term career growth.
- Better Compensation: Doctor of Business Administration salary increases significantly with proven expertise.
- DBA as an Investment: Pursuing a DBA in India becomes more rewarding over time due to experience-driven salary growth.
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What Is the Salary of DBA Graduates Abroad in 2025?
The salary of DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) graduates abroad in 2025 is generally quite high. On average, DBA graduates can earn between $90,000 and $300,000 per year in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
But keep in mind that your actual pay will depend on your job role, experience, location, and the industry you work in. DBA graduates often get top management or consulting jobs, which are among the best-paying roles internationally.
Below is the table providing salary after the DBA degree in abroad across the various job profile
Role |
Average Annual Salary (USD) |
Role Description |
| CEO / CFO / COO | $206,000 – $300,000+ | Leads company operations, strategy, and overall corporate management |
| Management Consultant | $86,000 – $200,000 | Advises organizations on business improvements, strategy, and efficiency |
| University Dean / Professor | $87,000 – $263,000 | Oversees academic departments, research, and teaching programs |
| Economist | $59,000 – $164,000 | Analyzes economic trends and provides insights for policy and business decisions |
| Policy Advisor | $57,000 – $122,000 | Guides governments or organizations on strategic policies and regulatory decisions |
Source: PayScale, Glassdoor
Which Countries Offer the Highest Salaries to DBA Graduates?
DBA graduates looking to work abroad can look for opportunities in countries that offer high salaries, strong recognition of the degree, and growing industries.
The following table highlights the top countries for DBA jobs, their average salaries, key industries, and the recognition level of the DBA degree.
Country |
Average DBA Salary (USD) |
Key Industries Hiring DBA Graduates |
Recognition Level |
| United States | $90,000 - $300,000+ | Consulting, Tech, Finance, Academia | Very High |
| United Kingdom | $150,000 - $190,000 | Corporate Strategy, Education, Policy | High |
| Canada | $41,000 - $110,000 | Academia, Public Sector, Corporate | High |
| UAE | $70,000 - $250,000+ | Oil & Gas, Corporate Leadership | Medium-High |
| Germany / France | $90,000 - $250,000 | Consulting, Corporate, Academia | High |
| Africa & Southeast Asia | $40,000 - $150,000 | Consulting, Corporate Expansion | Medium |
What Is the Projected Salary Growth for DBA Professionals by 2030?
The demand for DBA professionals is growing faster in abroad than in India, especially in countries with mature corporate environments and high-value consulting markets. According to Light cast data, the global demand for doctoral-level business talent is expected to grow 12.5% over the next decade. This growth indicates strong opportunities for DBA graduates in multinational companies, finance, healthcare, and fast-growing economies.
Key Points:
- DBA graduates enjoy higher job security and stronger career growth compared to master’s or bachelor’s degree holders.
- Salaries are expected to rise steadily, reflecting the increasing value of strategic leadership and practical business expertise.
How Are AI, Digital Transformation, and Consulting Demand Shaping DBA Salaries?
Technological changes and digital transformation are driving higher demand for DBA professionals with strategic and analytical expertise.
Impact on DBA Salaries:
- AI & Digital Transformation: Companies need DBAs who can lead tech-driven business strategies, increasing salaries for skilled professionals.
- Consulting Demand: High-value consulting roles in strategy and operations are expanding globally, rewarding DBAs with competitive compensation.
- Job Security & Stability: In uncertain economic times, companies prefer highly qualified leaders like DBAs, which strengthens both career growth and salary prospects.
Do DBA Professionals Earn More Than a PhD in Business Administration?
Yes. DBA professionals generally earn more than PhD graduates in Business Administration, especially in corporate and consulting roles. While a PhD in Business Administration is research-focused and prepares graduates for academic and analytical careers, a DBA equips professionals with practical business and leadership skills that are highly valued in the corporate world.
Salary Comparison Table (India & Abroad):
Degree |
Average Salary in India (₹ LPA) |
Average Salary Abroad (USD) |
Typical Roles |
| DBA | 18-30 | 90,000-150,000 | Strategy Manager, Consultant, Corporate Leader |
| PhD in Business Administration | 12-22 | 70,000-120,000 | Researcher, University Professor, Analyst |
Read: DBA vs PhD in Business Administration
Which Degree Offers Better ROI - DBA or PhD?
ROI depends on salary potential, career advancement, and career goals. A DBA degree salary often justifies the investment faster than a PhD if your goal is corporate leadership.
ROI Comparison Table:
Factor |
DBA |
PhD |
| Average Cost | ₹15-30 L | ₹10-25 L |
| Time to Complete | 3-5 years | 4-6 years |
| Average Starting Salary | ₹18 L | ₹12 L |
| Career Flexibility | High (Corporate & Consultancy) | Moderate (Research & Academia) |
| Long-Term Growth | High | Moderate |
How Can upGrad Help You Earn a DBA Degree?
As you’ve seen throughout this blog, DBA graduates enjoy high demand and rewarding career opportunities both in India and abroad. If you are looking for a cost-effective and globally recognized DBA degree, upGrad provides the perfect solution. Through upGrad, you can pursue an online DBA from top foreign universities while staying in India, allowing you to enhance your skills and credentials without relocating.
Career and Salary Benefits:
- Completing a DBA through upGrad gives you access to high-paying DBA jobs in India across industries like consulting, finance, and corporate leadership.
- The degree also prepares you for international opportunities, where DBA salaries are significantly higher, especially in countries like the USA, UK, and Canada.
- With global recognition, your career trajectory accelerates, enabling faster promotions and leadership roles.
Popular upGrad DBA Programs:
- DBA from Rushford Business School
- DBA from Golden Gate University
- Doctor of Business Administration from ESGCI
You can schedule a 1:1 consultation with upGrad experts to explore the best program tailored to your career goals and maximize both your DBA salary in India and abroad
References:
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/management-analyst-salary-SRCH_KO0,18.htm
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/business-consultant-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/senior-director-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/chief-executive-officer-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/professor-and-head-of-department-salary
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/management-analyst-salary-SRCH_KO0,18.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/consultant-salary-SRCH_KO0,10.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/senior-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,14.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/strategy-consultant-salary-SRCH_KO0,19.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/director-salary-SRCH_KO0,8.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/c-suite-executive-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/management-consultant-salary/mumbai-location
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/senior-business-analyst-salary/mumbai-location
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/corporate-strategy-manager-salary/mumbai-location?page=4
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/banking-executive-salary/mumbai-location
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/technical-product-manager-salary/mumbai-location
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/professor-salary-SRCH_KO0,9.htm
https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Chief_Executive_Officer_(CEO)/Salary
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/us-management-consultant-salary-SRCH_IL.0,2_IN1_KO3,24.htm
https://lsmt.org.uk/blog/doctorate-of-business-administration-salary-an-overview
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the average salary of a DBA graduate in India in 2025?
A DBA graduate in India can expect a starting dba salary in India of around ₹8–40 LPA. With experience and leadership roles, salaries can go over ₹60 LPA. Industries like consulting, banking, and IT usually offer the highest pay.
2. What is the average salary of a DBA graduate abroad in 2025?
Abroad, dba salaries range from $90,000 to $150,000 annually. Top executive positions or specialized consulting roles can pay significantly more, especially in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
3. Does specialization impact the salary after a DBA in India?
Yes. Specializing in areas like finance, consulting, or technology can increase your business administration salary in India. It also opens doors to high-level positions and faster career growth.
4. What is the ROI of a DBA degree in India?
A DBA offers a strong return on investment. The doctor in business administration salary in India is attractive enough to cover study costs within a few years while providing long-term career growth in leadership roles.
5. What is the median salary for DBA graduates in academic roles in India?
DBAs in academia earn between ₹7.2–24 LPA depending on their experience and rank, like professor or dean. While slightly lower than corporate pay, phd in business administration salary in India for academic roles remains competitive.
6. What is the salary of DBA graduates in the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia?
In these countries, dba salaries abroad ranges from $90,000 to $300,000. Corporate leadership, consulting, and high-level management positions often pay even more, making international DBA programs attractive.
7. What is the difference between DBA salaries in developing vs. developed countries
DBA in India pays less than in developed countries due to economic differences. However, salaries in India are steadily growing, while developed countries like the US and UK offer higher pay and more international recognition.
8. What factors influence DBA salaries abroad?
Location, industry, job role, and work experience are the key factors. Finance, consulting, and technology sectors abroad typically offer the highest average salary for a Doctor of Business Administration, reflecting global demand for skilled leaders.
9. How much work experience is needed to earn a good salary after a DBA?
Most high-paying jobs require 5–10 years of experience in management, consulting, or strategic leadership. Work experience directly influences your doctor in business administration and the speed of career growth.
10. Can DBA graduates work internationally for better salaries?
Yes, many choose DBA salary abroad opportunities in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. Working internationally can offer higher pay, stronger career growth, and exposure to global business practices.
11. What Is the Salary of DBA Graduates in the UK?
In the United Kingdom, DBA graduates in senior roles, especially in consulting or executive leadership, earn a median salary of around £150,000 (~USD 190K). These positions typically include high-level management, strategy, and corporate roles, with salaries increasing based on experience and responsibilities.
12. What Is the Salary of DBA Graduates in Canada?
In Canada, the median DBA salary abroad is approximately CAD 55,181 (~USD 41K). Top-tier earners, particularly in executive or consulting positions, can reach CAD 93K (~USD 70K) annually. Salaries vary by industry, experience, and location within the country.
13. What Is the Salary of DBA Graduates in Australia?
In Australia, DBA graduates can expect salaries like other developed Western countries, generally ranging from USD 90K–150K for corporate and consulting roles. Senior executive positions or specialized leadership roles often exceed this range, reflecting strong demand for strategic business professionals.
14. What role does sustainability play in DBA jobs?
Expertise in ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) strategy is becoming critical. A DBA equips professionals to design sustainable business policies with research-backed insights, enhancing leadership and doctor in business administration salary potential.
15. How do remote and distributed work models affect DBA opportunities?
DBAs can develop evidence-based management strategies for remote or hybrid teams. Organizations value DBA holders for their ability to implement effective policies and maintain performance in distributed workplaces.
16. What is the impact of micro-credentialing and lifelong learning on DBA careers
DBA holders engaging in modular learning and certifications stay competitive and increase career growth opportunities. Continuous upskilling can positively influence business administration salary in India and internationally.
17. How does a DBA support global mobility and international careers?
Because DBAs are globally recognized, they open pathways to skilled immigration, teaching abroad, and international consulting. This recognition boosts your dba salary abroad and career flexibility.
18. Who should consider pursuing a DBA?
Ideal candidates include senior managers, C-suite executives, entrepreneurs, mid-career consultants, and MBA graduates who want practical leadership skills combined with research skills for higher career growth and earning potential.
19. What is the long-term value of a DBA degree?
A DBA provides opportunities to lead global corporations, consult internationally, or teach in academia. It delivers both strong career outcomes and high earning potential, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals seeking executive-level roles.
20. How will DBA careers evolve in the next decade?
Future DBA careers will be shaped by AI, sustainability, global consulting, and remote leadership needs. Professionals with this degree can expect increasing demand, higher average salary for Doctor of Business Administration, and leadership opportunities worldwide.
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