Doctor of Business Administration for Teaching: Can a DBA Help You Become Faculty?

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a professional doctorate designed to bridge academic research and practical business leadership. Many professionals pursuing a DBA ask: Does a DBA qualify for teaching positions? Well the simple answer is yes, but there are nuances as it depends on factors like the institution, program type, and country of employment. 

For those exploring DBA for faculty positions, understanding that pursuing this doctorate degree can offer a distinct advantage in applied teaching environments is crucial. A DBA degree prepares graduates to lead business programs, design case studies, and contribute to academic research with practical relevance. 

This blog will further explore how a DBA qualifies you for faculty roles, by looking at career opportunities in higher education, advantages, challenges and future trends in academic hiring. So, read along for deeper insights into how teaching with a DBA degree might unfold! 

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Can You Teach at a University with a DBA? 

A Doctor of Business Administration can open pathways into university teaching, though the opportunities vary depending on the institution and role. For prospective DBA candidates who aim to teach, it is important to understand how this qualification is perceived in academia. 

When it comes to the scope of a DBA, universities are increasingly open to graduates for faculty positions, particularly where applied business expertise adds value to academic programs. For example, DBA degree teaching opportunities are more common in professional programs and business schools that prioritize applied learning. 

Key factors to know: 

• DBA credentials offer a unique advantage for teaching applied business courses. 
• Universities value faculty who bring industry insights into academic settings. 
• DBA holders are increasingly sought for executive education, MBA teaching, and leadership programs. 

Can a DBA Qualify for Tenure-Track Positions? 

While tenure-track roles often favor PhDs due to their research-intensive focus, a DBA can still qualify, especially if: 

• The candidate has published applied research in reputable journals 
• The institution values industry-based scholarship 
• The candidate has a strong portfolio of case studies and teaching experience 

Some universities, particularly business schools, are now recognizing DBA holders as eligible for tenure-track roles if they meet certain research and teaching criteria. 

DBA vs PhD for Teaching Careers 

Both DBA and PhD are doctorate degrees, and graduates with these qualifications often find employment in teaching. So, what is the difference between a DBA and PhD? Let’s answer this further  

Here’s how the two compare: 

DBA candidates thinking of this career can align their decision with career aspirations: if the goal is real-world academic teaching, a DBA can be a powerful pathway. 

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Academic Career Pathways with a DBA 

A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) offers a strong pathway for those who want to combine academic teaching with professional expertise. For individuals aiming to teach at universities, business schools, or professional education programs, a DBA provides credibility and applied skills that are highly valued in modern academia. 

When it comes to career paths for DBA graduates, academia is one of the most rewarding choices. Beyond teaching, there are also multiple career opportunities after DBA in executive education, curriculum design, and applied research roles. 

Here’s a breakdown of the most common academic career pathways for DBA graduates. 

Business Schools, Community Colleges, and Executive Programs 

DBA holders have a wide array of opportunities in various academic settings: 

• Business Schools: Many DBA graduates secure faculty positions at business schools, teaching MBA or executive programs. These roles often allow them to integrate applied research and industry case studies into the curriculum. 
• Community Colleges: Some DBA holders contribute to business and management programs at community colleges, focusing on foundational courses and applied learning projects. 
• Executive Education Programs: Executive education programs actively seek DBA-qualified faculty. These programs are designed for mid to senior-level executives and prioritize applied knowledge over theoretical research. 

Key benefits of these pathways include: 

• Access to diverse teaching formats (lectures, workshops, seminars). 
• Direct engagement with experienced professionals as students. 
• Opportunities to design and lead innovative courses. 

International Recognition of DBA for Teaching Roles 

DBA qualifications are increasingly recognized globally, but acceptance depends on geography and institutional policy. Many countries view the DBA as a professional doctorate designed for senior executives who want to contribute to academia without solely focusing on traditional research. 

Here’s a snapshot of DBA teaching roles across regions: 

Note: Requirements vary. In some regions, DBA holders may need additional teaching qualifications, while in others, a DBA is sufficient for faculty roles. It is essential for prospective DBA students to research the requirements in their target region. 

What Jobs Can You Get with a Doctor of Business Administration? 

A DBA opens up multiple academic and professional roles, making it a versatile qualification. For those interested in teaching, typical jobs after DBA include: 

• Adjunct Professor or Lecturer: Part-time teaching positions allowing DBA holders to teach while continuing professional work. 
• Full-Time Faculty Member: Teaching roles in universities or business schools that value applied research. 
• Program Director or Curriculum Designer: Creating and leading academic programs that integrate business practice and research. 
• Executive Education Instructor: Teaching short-term programs designed for senior executives. 

Beyond traditional faculty roles, a DBA can also lead to opportunities such as: 

• Corporate training leader 
• Academic consultant for higher education programs 
• Curriculum developer for online learning platforms 

Hence, A DBA program provides flexibility. Graduates can work in academia, professional training, consulting, or a hybrid role that blends both teaching and industry leadership. 

Convinced to go for a DBA program? Take the next step and see How You Can Choose the Best Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) Program in 2025 

Factors That Influence DBA Faculty Careers 

Not all Doctor of Business Administration graduates automatically step into academic teaching roles. Several factors influence whether a Doctor of Business Administration can secure teaching positions and what kind of roles they can access. 

Understanding these factors helps prospective DBA candidates plan their career path more strategically and align their doctoral journey with their teaching ambitions. 

Accreditation and University Requirements 

One of the most critical factors is how institutions recognize DBA qualifications. Requirements vary by: 

• Institution Type: Research-focused universities may prefer PhDs for tenure-track roles, while professional business schools value DBAs for their applied expertise. 
• Regional Academic Standards: Countries have different norms for faculty eligibility. For example: 
• USA: Many business schools accept DBAs for adjunct or non-tenure faculty positions, but tenure-track roles often require additional publications. 
• UK & Europe: DBA is increasingly accepted in professional teaching roles, though research requirements vary. 
• Program Accreditation: Some accredited programs require faculty to hold PhDs, while others welcome DBA holders, especially if they have industry and research experience. 

For DBA candidates, researching these requirements before enrolling in a program is essential. This helps avoid surprises when applying for teaching roles. 

Publication and Research Expectations 

Research output is another key factor influencing DBA teaching careers. Even though a DBA focuses on applied research, universities still expect evidence of scholarly contributions if candidates want to enter faculty positions. 

This can include: 

• Peer-reviewed journal articles 
• Published case studies 
• Conference presentations 
• Applied research projects with measurable impact 

A DBA graduate who builds a strong portfolio of applied research increases their eligibility for higher-level teaching positions and tenure-track roles. 

Industry Experience vs Academic Research 

One of the strongest advantages of a DBA is the ability to combine industry experience with research expertise. The role of work experience in DBA success is especially clear during admission and later in academic careers. On the other hand, In contrast, a strong research record enhances eligibility for a multitude of faculty roles.  

However, the balance between these elements matters: 

• Industry experience gives credibility in applied teaching, particularly in executive education and professional programs. 
• Academic research strengthens candidacy for tenure-track and senior faculty positions. 

Institutions vary in how they weigh these factors. Business schools offering executive programs often prioritize industry experience, while research-intensive universities place more emphasis on publications and theoretical contributions. 

Networking and Professional Engagement 

Networking is a hidden yet crucial factor for DBA graduates aiming for academic careers. Many teaching opportunities, especially visiting faculty or program design roles, come through professional networks rather than open job postings. 

Ways to build academic and industry networks include: 

• Attending business education conferences 
• Presenting research findings at industry forums 
• Collaborating with academic institutions during research projects 
• Joining professional associations in business administration 

For DBA graduates, securing faculty roles is about aligning academic credentials with institutional needs. Understanding accreditation standards, building a strong research portfolio, leveraging industry experience, and cultivating networks are essential steps for success in DBA for teaching positions. 

Want to know what is the earning potential after a Doctor of Business Administration? Read: Doctor of Business Administration Salary in India [For Various Job Roles] 

Advantages of Choosing a DBA for Academic Teaching 

A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) offers unique advantages for those looking to pursue teaching careers in business and management education. Unlike a traditional PhD, a DBA is designed for professionals who want to combine academic knowledge with industry experience.  

Considering the ROI of a DBA program in terms of real-world learning, program flexibility, career opportunities, and professional growth can help candidates make an informed decision before committing to this advanced degree. 

Let’s look at the various advantages of a DBA degree for academic teaching:   

Real-World Expertise in Classroom Learning 

One of the biggest advantages of a Doctor of Business Administration is the ability to bring practical experience into academic teaching: 

• DBA holders can incorporate industry case studies, applied research, and business problem-solving into their courses. 
• Students benefit from lessons grounded in current business practices, not just theory. 
• Faculty can design executive programs and workshops that directly address real-world challenges. 

This makes people with a DBA qualification particularly valuable in business schools and executive education programs where applied learning is a priority. 

Flexibility in Academia and Industry 

A DBA opens doors to academic teaching while keeping professional opportunities open. Graduates often find roles that allow them to: 

• Teach part-time while continuing consulting work. 
• Lead executive education programs. 
• Work in industry while contributing to academic programs. 

This flexibility allows DBA holders to maintain strong industry connections something that enhances their credibility and makes their teaching more relevant. 

Unique Value of Practice-Oriented Scholarship 

Unlike a traditional PhD, the DBA focuses on applied research. This brings unique value to higher education: 

• Faculty with DBAs can develop courses based on current industry challenges. 
• They can design programs that address evolving business needs. 
• They add diversity to academic research by incorporating real-world insights. 

This makes DBA-qualified faculty particularly attractive to professional-focused institutions and programs that want to deliver practical learning outcomes. 

Career Advancement with Doctor of Business Administration 

Teaching with a DBA can open paths beyond the classroom: 

• Program leadership and curriculum development. 
• Research collaborations between universities and corporations. 
• Executive education design and delivery. 
• Consultancy roles in academia. 

For aspiring academics, this means a DBA can act as a bridge between teaching, research, and industry, creating a broader range of career possibilities. 

Choosing a DBA for academic teaching offers a unique blend of credibility, expertise, and flexibility. For those aiming at DBA for teaching positions, it not only opens doors to diverse faculty roles but also allows professionals to influence the next generation of business leaders while continuing to engage with industry. 

Challenges and Limitations of DBA in Academia 

While a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) offers strong advantages for academic careers, there are also certain challenges to be aware of. For anyone considering DBA for teaching positions, understanding these limitations will help set realistic expectations and guide career planning. 

Perception and Recognition in Academia 

One of the main challenges is that not all universities view the DBA as equivalent to a PhD for faculty roles. 

• Research-focused universities often prioritize PhD holders for tenure-track positions because of their focus on theoretical research. 
• Some institutions still view the DBA as only a “professional doctorate” rather than a traditional academic doctorate, which can limit eligibility for certain roles. 

That said, recognition is growing, especially in business schools, executive education programs, and applied research institutions that value industry-based scholarship. 

Limited Tenure-Track Opportunities 

Tenure-track roles, which offer long-term job security and career progression are often harder to secure for DBA holders compared to PhD graduates. 

Key reasons include: 

• Emphasis on theoretical research and academic publications in tenure-track hiring. 
• Preference for traditional PhD credentials in some universities. 

However, DBA graduates can enhance their chances by publishing applied research, engaging in academic collaborations, and building a strong teaching portfolio. 

Balancing Industry and Academic Roles 

A DBA is designed for professionals who want to bridge industry and academia. This dual focus can sometimes create challenges: 

• Time management: Balancing teaching responsibilities with ongoing consulting or industry work can be demanding and requires mastering time management techniques. 
• Research focus: DBA research tends to be applied, but academic roles sometimes require more theoretical contributions. 

DBA graduates need to find a balance that allows them to meet teaching expectations while maintaining their industry expertise. 

Variations in Global Recognition of Doctor of Business Administration 

Acceptance of DBA degrees differs by region and institution: 

So, while a DBA offers unique advantages for academic careers, it also comes with limitations, especially in traditional research settings. Awareness of these challenges will help candidates better prepare for DBA for teaching positions by aligning their qualifications with institutional needs and building a strong research portfolio, and strategically planning their career path. 

Explore the Top DBA Programs in the World for 2025 and find the program that fits your career goals 

Future of DBA in Academic Teaching (2025 and Beyond) 

The academic landscape is changing fast, and the role of the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in higher education is evolving with it. For those exploring DBA for teaching positions, understanding the future scope of education and emerging trends is key to planning a successful academic career. 

Here’s what lies ahead for DBA-qualified faculty and how these changes may shape teaching opportunities worldwide. 

Growing Recognition of DBA in Universities 

In 2025, more universities are recognizing the DBA as a valid qualification for academic teaching roles, especially in business schools and executive education programs. This shift is driven by: 

• Demand for applied business education: Universities want faculty who can link theory with practice. 
• Industry engagement: DBA graduates bring practical insights that benefit students. 
• Curriculum innovation: DBA holders often design courses that address emerging business challenges. 

Rise of Hybrid Teaching Roles 

The future of DBA teaching will include more hybrid roles that combine: 

• Academic responsibilities (teaching, research, curriculum design) 
• Industry roles (consulting, executive training, project leadership) 

Universities are creating flexible teaching positions that allow DBA holders to maintain industry work alongside academic teaching. This trend benefits students by providing access to real-time business insights. 

Expansion of Online and Executive Education 

DBA graduates are increasingly in demand for online programs and executive education: 

• Online MBA and professional programs require instructors who can combine research and practical business insights. 
• Executive education programs seek DBA-qualified faculty to design customized corporate training. 

With digital learning expanding, DBA holders will have more opportunities to teach in flexible, high-impact environments. 

Increasing Importance of Applied Research 

Applied research will become even more central to academic teaching roles for DBA graduates. Universities will expect DBA faculty to: 

• Publish research that addresses practical business challenges. 
• Lead industry-academia collaborations. 
• Integrate applied research into teaching content. 

To see this in action, take a look at How Doctor of Business Administration Research is Shaping the Future of AI and Business Analytics, which highlights real-world applications of DBA research. 

The future for DBA-qualified faculty is bright but evolving. Growing recognition, hybrid teaching roles, online program expansion, and a focus on applied research will shape DBA for teaching positions in the coming decade. For aspiring DBA holders, understanding these trends will help them prepare for a successful academic career that blends teaching and industry impact. 

Wrapping Up 

A Doctor of Business Administration can prepare you with specialized knowledge to enhance career prospects and personal growth. This degree helps learners master business expertise and research skills that can further qualify them for academic teaching positions.  

As businesses and industries advance, degrees such as DBA are the need of the hour to adapt to rising needs in research and business leadership. So, if you want to pursue a Doctor of Business Administration for academic teaching, make sure to pick the right program and assess how it will impact your teaching career growth in the coming years.  

Need expert assistance on choosing the right DBA program? Go ahead and book a free counseling session with upGrad. We would be happy to help you figure out your options. 

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Reference:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/top-executives.htm