How Much Does a DBA Degree Cost - Online vs On-Campus

Wondering about DBA degree cost? As per data from US News, online DBA programs are generally cheaper compared to on-campus DBA programs. For example, an online Doctorate in Business Administration degree at Westcliff University costs around $46,800, while the in-person or hybrid option is $49,500. 

Because DBA programs are designed for working professionals, many universities offer them online, allowing students to complete coursework around their professional schedules. 

In this blog, we’ll provide a detailed DBA program cost comparison and guide you on budgeting for both online and on-campus DBA programs in 2025. 

Advance your career with a flexible online DBA Program! Check out upGrad’s online Doctor of Business Administration programs to earn your degree at your own pace, check tuition fees, and find the most affordable DBA options.

How Do Online DBA Programs Compare to On-Campus Programs in Cost? 

If you’re thinking about a DBA degree, one of the biggest questions is cost. Online DBA programs are usually cheaper and more flexible, while on-campus DBA programs can cost more because of housing and other campus expenses. 

In this section, we’ll break down the DBA degree cost, compare DBA fees, and help you see which option works best for your schedule and budget. 

But before going ahead lets look at upGrad popular Online DBA programs in collaboration with top universities  

• Executive Doctor of Business Administration from SSBM 
• Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) from ESGCI, Paris    
• Doctor of Business Administration from Rushford Business School, Switzerland    

How much does an Online DBA Program Cost? 

Online DBA programs are designed for working professionals. You can study from home and complete your degree without pausing your career. 

To back up this point, we’ve looked at popular online DBA programs and their tuition fees. Here’s a snapshot of universities offering online DBA courses and the associated costs: 

Example Online DBA Costs (2025)

Source: Forbes 

Why online programs are cheaper:

• No commuting or relocation costs 
• Flexible schedule fits around work 
• Some programs offer short optional immersions 

Also Read: DBA Degree Eligibility in Top Universities

How Much does an On-Campus DBA Program Cost Compared to Online? 

On-campus DBA programs generally have higher tuition and additional expenses like accommodation, travel, and campus fees, while online programs save on these costs and offer more flexibility for working professionals. 

Example of On-Campus DBA Programs (2025) 

Note:  

• All costs mentioned in USD are converted to INR at an approximate exchange rate of $1 = ₹87.53. Actual rates may vary depending on daily market fluctuations and your payment method. 
• All fee details mentioned above are sourced from the respective university’s official website. However, fees and policies are subject to change. For the most accurate and updated information, we recommend visiting the official university website directly. 

Additional Costs to Consider: 

• Accommodation & Living Expenses: On-campus students may need to pay for housing, meals, and utilities, which can add thousands of dollars annually. 
• Travel Costs: Commuting or attending campus residencies can significantly increase overall DBA degree cost. 
• Books & Materials: Program-specific textbooks, software, and research resources can add extra fees. 
• Campus Fees: Some universities charge technology, library, or activity fees. 
• Optional Immersions & Workshops: Executive DBA programs may have short-term on-campus immersions or global residencies with separate costs. 

These factors make on-campus DBA programs more expensive than online DBA programs, even if the tuition appears comparable. Online programs save money and time while providing flexibility for working professionals. 

Are Online DBA programs Cheaper than On-Campus Programs? 

Yes, online DBA programs are generally more affordable than on-campus programs. While tuition fees can sometimes appear similar, the overall cost of pursuing a DBA online is usually lower due to several factors: 

• No relocation or commuting costs: You can study from home without paying for flights, transportation, or temporary housing. 
• Reduced living expenses: Online students don’t need to pay for campus housing, meals, or utilities, which can add thousands of dollars per year. 
• Flexible schedules: Online DBA programs are designed for working professionals, allowing you to continue earning while studying. 
• Optional immersions only: Some programs have short on-campus sessions, but these are limited and cost less than full-time residencies. 

Read: Comparison between On-Campus DBA and Online DBA  

What Is the Total Cost of a DBA Program, Including Living and Other Expenses?

When evaluating a DBA degree cost, tuition is just one part of the picture. The total cost includes living, travel, materials, and other expenses. Here’s a breakdown for online DBA programs versus on-campus DBA programs: 

On-Campus DBA Programs:

• Tuition & Fees: Often higher than online programs due to campus facilities. 
• Accommodation & Meals: Can add approx. $10,000–$25,000 per year  
• (INR 10L – 20L) depending on location. 
• Travel & Commuting: Regular campus visits or residencies increase costs. 
• Books & Materials: Program-specific resources may cost $1,000+ per year (INR 90k). 
• Campus Fees: Technology, library, or activity fees are usually extra. 

Online DBA Programs:

• Tuition & Fees: Generally lower, making them more affordable DBA programs. 
• Accommodation & Travel: Minimal or non-study from home. 
• Books & Materials: Often included digitally or available at reduced cost. 
• Optional Residencies: Short workshops may have small additional fees.

Doctor of Business Administration Program Cost Comparison: 

Note: The DBA degree costs mentioned for both online and on-campus programs have been compiled from our research on the respective universities and their official information.  

How Can You Find DBA Programs That Fit Your Budget? 

Finding a DBA program that fits your budget is simpler when you know what to look for. Online DBA programs and on-campus DBA programs can differ a lot in DBA degree cost and additional expenses, so keeping an eye on the details really helps. 

• Compare tuition fees: Look at total program cost, per year or per credit, to spot affordable DBA programs. 
• Factor in extra costs: On-campus programs add housing, travel, and campus fees. Online programs may have short residencies or materials. 
• Check scholarships & financial aid: Many schools offer support, and some employers cover tuition. 
• Consider flexible formats: Online or part-time programs save time and money without pausing your career. 
• Choose based on your preference: Ultimately, it depends on whether you want the flexibility of an online DBA or the campus experience of an on-campus DBA. 

How Can You Manage or Offset DBA Costs? 

Paying for a DBA degree doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you choose online DBA programs or on-campus DBA programs, there are smart ways to manage costs: 

• Scholarships & Grants: Many universities offer merit-based or need-based aid to reduce tuition fees. 
• Employer Support: Ask if your organization reimburses part of your tuition for professional growth. 
• Flexible Payments: Installment plans make managing DBA tuition fees easier. 
• Online Options: Studying online saves on travel, housing, and other extra costs. 
• Loans & Tax Benefits: Explore education loans or tax deductions available in your country. 
• Total Cost Matters: Consider living expenses, books, and residencies-not just tuition-when comparing programs. 

Curious If a DBA Worth the Investment? Then check out this blog and gain insights on  the full ROI and career benefits of a Doctor of Business Administration.

Conclusion

A DBA is more than just a degree, it represents a pathway to leadership roles, consulting opportunities, and advanced career growth. Comparing online DBA programs and on-campus DBA programs highlights differences in DBA degree cost, DBA tuition fees, and overall expenses.

Based on our research and DBA program cost comparison, online programs offer flexibility and lower costs, while on-campus programs provide hands-on experience and strong networking opportunities. Considering affordable DBA programs carefully can help align your investment with your long-term career goals and professional growth. 

If you need expert assistance in choosing the right Doctor of Business Administration program, then you can book a free counseling session with upGrad. We would be happy to help you figure out your options.

Discover our top Doctor of Business Administration programs and take the next step toward advancing your leadership and research expertise!

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