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Who Should Pursue a DBA in 2025? Benefits, Career Opportunities, and Eligibility Explained

By upGrad

Updated on Aug 13, 2025 | 7 min read | 1.22K+ views

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Do you know? The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects top executive jobs to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033 

Who should pursue a DBA? The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is good for both students and working professionals who want to enhance their careers through high-level research and leadership.  

In this blog, we will explore who should exactly pursue a DBA degree, how it compares to other top degrees like MBA or PhD.  

We will also checkout the eligibility criteria and practical considerations, including options for working professionals. And by the end, you’ll get a clear idea of how a DBA is the right choice for your career goals.

If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, consider enrolling in our Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program designed for busy professionals like you, our flexible courses combine advanced research with real-world leadership skills.

Who Should Pursue a DBA? Understanding the Ideal Candidates 

This section helps you identify the right candidates for a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program. Understanding who should pursue a DBA in detailed way can easily help you to make your decision to take this advanced step for your career. 

Explore our top DBA programs and choose the one that fits your goals: 

Who should pursue a DBA degree? 

A DBA degree is perfect for those looking to combine practical business experience with advanced research skills.  

Ideal candidates include: 

  • Mid to senior-level professionals looking for top executive job roles 
  • Entrepreneurs who want to expand their businesses 
  • Academics aiming for applied business research 
  • Consultants looking to deepen their expertise and credibilit

Is a DBA suitable for working professionals? 

DBA is highly suitable for working professionals as it offers flexible learning options focusing on solving real-world business problems. Working professionals can pursue this degree without hampering their work. 

Why working professionals choose a DBA: 

  • Flexible schedules with online or hybrid classes 
  • Focus on practical, applicable research 
  • Opportunity to apply learning directly to current work 
  • Networking with experienced professionals and industry leaders 

Also Read: Doctor of Business Administration (DBA): Roles and Responsibilities

Should academics pursue a DBA or PhD? 

Many students usually get confused over whether they should pursue a DBA or a PhD. While both the degrees are doctoral degrees but their focus and outcomes are different from each other. 

Here’s the detailed comparison of the DBA and PhD programs: 

Aspect  DBA  PhD 
Focus  Applied business research  Theoretical research 
Ideal for  Professionals & business leaders  Academics & researchers 
Career outcomes  Executive roles, consulting, business innovation  University faculty, academic research 
Research approach  Practical, solution-oriented  Pure research, theory-driven 
Time to complete  Usually 3-5 years  Usually 4-7 years 

How Does a DBA Compare With Other Degrees? 

Choosing between a DBA, MBA, and PhD can be challenging. This section explains the differences so you can decide which path suits your career goals. 

DBA vs MBA — Who should choose which? 

While both the degrees are business-focused, the MBA builds broad managerial skills, and the DBA focuses on advanced research and leadership

Here are the differences between DBA and MBA programs: 

Feature 

MBA 

DBA

Focus  Management & business operations  Advanced research & leadership 
Ideal for  Early/mid-career professionals  Senior professionals & entrepreneurs 
Career outcomes  Manager, department head, consultant  C-suite roles, business strategist, thought leader 
Duration  1–2 years  3–5 years 

 

DBA vs PhD – Which is better for different career goals? 

DBA and Phd both are doctoral degrees which are the highest level of education you can get, but the DBA generally focuses on practical solutions, whereas the PhD focuses more on academic theory. 

Comparison of DBA vs PhD courses in India: 

Feature 

DBA 

PhD 

Focus  Applied business research  Theoretical research 
Ideal for  Industry professionals  Academic researchers 
Career outcomes  Executive roles, consulting  University professor, academic researcher 
Research approach  Practical, problem-solving  Theory-driven 
Top Job  CEO, Chief Strategy Officer  Professor, Research Director 
Average Salary in India  INR 45 - INR 60 LPA  INR 16L – INR 35 LPA 

Note: The salaries mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary as per the experience, employer and location. 

Sourced By: Ambition Box 

Who should pursue a DBA after an MBA? 

After completing your MBA, a DBA degree can take your expertise to the next level by developing advanced research and leadership skills. 

Here are some top reasons why pursue a DBA after an MBA: 

  • Enhance your MBA basics with deep research skills 
  • Gain credibility as an expert in your field 
  • Open doors to senior executive, consulting, and academic roles 
  • Develop innovative solutions for complex business challenges 

What Are the Benefits and Career Opportunities of a DBA? 

A Doctor of Business Administration is not just a degree it offers many advantages as well such as it provides you with skills, networks, and credibility to excel at the highest level in business and academia. 

Let’s see how it can boost your career. 

Is a DBA good for career advancement? 

DBA can significantly enhance your career by offering various job opportunities in leadership, consulting, and academic field, while enhancing your research-based decision-making skills. 

How a DBA helps in career growth: 

  • Builds authority and credibility in your field 
  • Strengthens leadership and strategic thinking 
  • Expands your professional network globally 
  • Positions you for higher salaries and senior roles 
  • Enhances problem-solving with research-based solutions 

What are the career opportunities after a DBA? 

 A DBA program can make you able to get into diverse, high-impact career paths in both industry and academia fields. 

Popular career paths for DBA graduates: 

Career Path 

Average Salary in India* 

CEO / C-suite Executive  INR 48L 
Senior Business Consultant  INR 20.3L 
University Professor  INR 16L 
Entrepreneur  INR 18L (Varies widely) 
Policy Advisor  INR 4.1L 

Sourced By: Ambition Box 

If you’re ready to get one of these career opportunities and earn at the top level, our Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programs are built for you. 

Is DBA worth it for executives and business leaders? 

For executives and business leaders, a DBA degree is more than just a title, it’s a tool for them to get innovative, shape strategy, and influence entire industries. 

Why executives choose a DBA: 

  • Gain research skills to solve complex business problems 
  • Strengthen thought leadership in their industry 
  • Drive organizational change with evidence-based strategies 
  • Build global business connections 
  • Make a long term career by staying ahead of trends 

What Are the Eligibility and Practical Considerations for Pursuing a DBA? 

To apply for a Doctor of Business Administration program, you first need to understand the entry requirements of this program. This section explains the eligibility criteria, flexibility, and whether you can pursue a DBA without an MBA. 

What is the eligibility criteria to pursue a DBA program? 

The DBA programs are generally designed for experienced professionals with strong academic and work backgrounds. 

Here are the general eligibility requirements you need to follow: 

  • You should have a master’s degree in business or related field such as (MBA, MSc, etc.) 
  • You need to have 3–5+ years of professional work experience 
  • You must have a strong academic record 
  • Strong research proposal or statement of purpose is needed. 
  • For International applicants - English language proficiency is a must. 

Can you get a DBA without an MBA? 

It is possible for you to pursue a DBA program without an MBA degree if you meet other academic or professional requirements. 

Alternative pathways to a DBA: 

  • Master’s degree in a related field (Economics, Management, Finance, Marketing, etc.) 
  • Significant senior-level work experience (10+ years) even without a master’s degree, in some cases 
  • Professional qualifications like CA, CFA, or CPA combined with managerial experience 

Also Read: Benefits of Doing an MBA After CA 

Are online DBA programs suitable for working professionals? 

Online or hybrid DBA programs are the best options for the working professionals who want flexibility to complete their DBA degree while continuing their work. 

Here are some reasons why professionals prefer online DBA programs: 

  • Flexible schedules to study alongside work 
  • Learn from global faculty without relocating 
  • Apply research to your current workplace in real time 
  • Network with peers worldwide 
  • Access to recorded lectures and online resources 

How can upGrad help you?  

Pursuing a DBA degree can be a life changing decision for you, so having the best support in your journey can create a big impact. 

For your help, we are here at your service! 

At upGrad, we offer top DBA programs that combines global standards, industry relevance, and personal guidance which are ideal for anyone wondering who should pursue a DBA and how to get the best from it. 

Key Features of upGrad’s DBA Programs: 

  • Global Accreditation: Our DBA programs are recognized worldwide through partnerships with top universities. 
  • Flexible Learning: Our courses are 100% online which allows you to learn at your own speed and from anywhere. 
  • Industry Integration: Our DBA programs curriculum is designed by the industry experts to offer you real-world relevance. 
  • Student Support: We offer 24/7 guidance from dedicated mentors. 
  • Networking Opportunities: Our programs let you connect with other professionals, alumni, and global business leaders for better career growth. 

Ready to take the next step? Book your free counseling session with our top experts today and get personalized guidance for your DBA journey.

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

References:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/top-executives.htm
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/chief-executive-officer-ceo-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/chief-strategy-officer-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/professor-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/research-director-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/senior-business-consultant-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/professor-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/entrepreneur-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/policy-advisor-salary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which one is better a DBA or PhD?

2. Does DBA offer a Dr. title?

3. Is DBA higher than MBA?

4. Is DBA a good career choice?

5. How much can you earn with a DBA?

6. What are the top job opportunities after a DBA?

7. Is DBA valid in India?

8. Is DBA lower than PhD?

9. What is higher than a DBA?

10. How long does it take to complete a DBA?

11. Can I do a DBA right after my bachelor’s degree?

12. Is a DBA only for people in business fields?

13. What skills will I gain from a DBA program?

14. Can a DBA help me move into teaching?

15. Will a DBA help me switch industries?

16. Is a DBA useful for entrepreneurs?

17. How is the research in a DBA program different from a PhD?

18. Can I do a DBA from an international university while living in India?

19. How much does a DBA cost in India?

20. Is it possible to work full-time while doing a DBA?

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