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Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Degree Online

Unlock leadership excellence and global business insights with upGrad’s online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program, designed for today’s ambitious professionals. Equivalent to a PhD, a DBA degree equips working professionals with enhanced leadership and research skills, offering unprecedented flexibility and networking opportunities.

  • 100% Online Mode of Learning through Digital Platforms
  • Accredited Doctoral Degrees
  • Optional On-Campus Immersions
  • Wide Specializations to Choose Your Domain
  • Designed for Canada-Based Professionals
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Upskill with Our Top Natch Programs

Doctor of Business Administration

Online MBA to DBA Pathway from Golden Gate University
Golden Gate University

WASC-Accredited DBA

MBA to DBA Pathway
  • Doctorate
  • 40 Months
  • Ranked #1 for Working Professionals
Online Doctor of Business Administration from Golden Gate University
Golden Gate University

WASC-Accredited DBA

Doctor of Business Administration
  • Doctorate
  • 36 Months
  • Scholarships available for 5000 students
Online Doctor of Business Administration in Emerging Technologies  with Concentration in Generative AI     from Golden Gate University
Golden Gate University

WASC-Accredited DBA

Doctor of Business Administration in Emerging Technologies with Concentration in Generative AI
  • Doctorate
  • 36 Months
  • Specialize in Generative AI
Online Doctorate in Business Administration from Edgewood University
Edgewood University

Complete in just 24 months

Doctorate in Business Administration
  • Doctorate
  • 24 Months
  • 100% Online
Online Dual Degree MBA and DBA from Edgewood University
Edgewood University

Earn the reputed Dr Title

Dual Degree MBA and DBA
  • Doctorate
  • 30 Months
  • 100% Online
Online Doctorate of Business Administration from ESGCI
ESGCI

Optional Immersion in Paris

Doctorate of Business Administration
  • Doctorate
  • 36 Months
  • French National Accreditation
Online Doctor of Business Administration from Rushford Business School
Rushford Business School

Live Lectures from University Faculty

Doctor of Business Administration
  • Doctorate
  • 36 Months
  • Member of AACSB and ACBSP and IACBE

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Canada: Key Highlights

1. DBA Degree Programs in Canada - A Quick Overview

A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a doctoral program specially crafted for working professionals. The degree offers in-depth expertise in business concept development, while not being strictly designed to produce non-research index-based academic outcomes, as with typical academic PhD programs. 

DBA is valuable for professionals looking to become thought leaders or aiming for executive titles through focused specializations like digital leadership, analytics, and emerging technologies. To enroll in a DBA program, applicants typically require a master's degree and 5-10 years of work experience. Some of the desired outcomes of DBA programs include the development of strategic skills, high-level roles, and organizational changes.  

Why Is It the Right Time to Pursue a DBA in Canada?

By pursuing a DBA program in Canada, professionals can blend academic rigor with career advancement and economic opportunities. This makes DBA an attractive option for seasoned professionals aiming to elevate their careers. 

The Public Sector, Healthcare, Technology, Management, Consulting, and Finance are the key sectors where business administration doctorates are highly sought-after, mainly because of their problem-solving and strategic thinking skills. A DBA degree holder can apply advanced business acumen to make data-driven decisions and solve critical business challenges. 

Consider the following significant reasons for pursuing a DBA in Canada:

  • Strong Economy and Business Hub: Canada has a stable and diverse economy spread across different cities and business hubs, which allows DBA graduates to engage in varied industries and multinational corporations.
  • High Income Possibilities: DBA graduates in Canada earn competitive compensation. For instance, executive-level DBA professionals in Canada can earn a hike in salary after completing their program compared to their pre-DBA salary.
  • Quality Education and Global Recognition: Canadian universities offering DBA programs are well-regarded around the world and accredited by esteemed bodies, such as AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA. These institutions set a high bar for academic quality to ensure that their graduates are ready to be leaders.
  • Flexible Learning Options: Many Canadian DBA programs offer part-time, blended, or online learning opportunities for individuals who wish to continue their careers while pursuing a DBA. Thus, candidates can continue to learn without pausing their careers in the process.

Who Should Apply for a DBA Program in Canada?

A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) course is an ideal degree for professionals who want to combine doctoral research with leadership development. A DBA program is all about solving real business problems through advanced research and leadership skills. 

Here are the professionals who stand to gain the most from pursuing a DBA degree online:

  1. Academicians: Academicians can use practical knowledge on real business situations to enhance and advance in the professional ladder. 
  2. Senior Managers: These professionals can advance their careers to reach executive and board roles by acquiring a DBA degree.
  3. Entrepreneurs: Entrepreneurs can generate systems that can be applied to grow a business.
  4. Functional Head Roles: Professionals can resolve company-level leadership issues as marketing, HR, operations, and other functional heads.
  5. Individuals Willing for a Career Transition: Professionals can move to consulting or education seamlessly and with credible recognition.
  6. Mid-career professional: Professionals in the middle of their careers can acquire globally recognized credentials to open new and competitive ways to pace career growth with a DBA degree.

DBA Eligibility & Admission Criteria

In Canada, the eligibility and admission criteria for online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programs vary by institution. However, most programs look for a combination of standard requirements as mentioned below:

Eligibility 

Details 

Master’s Degree

Candidate must have an MBA degree or a related master’s program.

Academic Record

Must have consistently high scores in academics.

Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letter of Recommendation (LOR)

They must present a well-crafted SOP and a few LORs from academic or professional references.

English Proficiency

Non-English speakers must have the required IELTS or TOEFL scores.

Research Proposal

Candidates must have a clear doctoral research plan.

Work Experience

Candidates are required to present employment verification to showcase work experience.

Interview

They must successfully clear rounds of interviews.

 

Skill Sets Required for Success in the DBA Field

Success in the DBA field demands more than knowledge; it requires a potent mix of skills that drive innovation and leadership. Take a look at today’s most in-demand skills for DBA professionals:

  • Critical Thinking: Demonstrate skills in data analysis, strategy evaluation, and insight into international business dynamics.
  • Research Methods: Understand the research tools and methods to support strategic decision-making.
  • Strategic Planning: Conduct market research to develop strategies for long-term business expansion and growth.
  • Business Intelligence & Data Science: Know how to leverage AI and data science to generate insights to guide your business.
  • Leadership Capabilities: Learn the ways to lead businesses through digital transformation.
  • Communication: Translate advanced business concepts across diverse business contexts.
  • Collaboration: Engage with experts and build networks to develop ways to address problems.
  • Problem Solving: Use your research and experiences to help solve business problems.
  • Decision Making: Make informed and data-driven decisions towards an organizational goal and growth.
  • Innovation: Implement innovative ideas and practices that enhance programs and practices.



Working professionals looking to earn a DBA degree in Canada often face a trade-off between career progress and studies. To remove this trade-off, enrolling in a 100% online and globally recognized doctorate in business education is the best resort for professionals.  

Best online DBA for working professionals in Canada comes with some exclusive features:

  • Fully Online (100% online) Program with Smart Learning Tools:
  • Connect to a Global Network:
  • Curriculum Reflects Today's Industry Needs:
  • Flexible and Affordable Program
  • Live Learning from Industry Professionals:
  • Personalized Career Support: 
  • Help Tackle Real Business Challenges: 
  • Designed for Canadian professionals.

Overview of DBA Curriculum and Course Structure

The curriculum of the Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) program in Canada aims to strike a balance for professionals and experienced learners completing advanced learning pathways. Working professionals can complete their studies while obtaining practical knowledge and work experience.

The structure of a typical DBA program may vary by institution; however, the following is a commonly followed curriculum:

Course structure 

What it comprises

Foundation

  • Doctoral writing and Research methods
  • Qualitative Research and Analysis  
  • Quantitative Research and Analysis

Final Dissertation

  • Solve real-world business challenges relevant to your industry

Concentration (Choose Any)

  • Finance
  • Business and Data Analytics
  • Marketing
  • Leadership and Strategy
  • General 

Concentration - Finance 

  • Corporate Finance
  • Finance Theory and Application  
  • International Finance

Concentration - Marketing 

  • Marketing Management
  • Consumer Behavior 
  •  Digital Marketing and New Media 

Concentration - Leadership and Strategy

  • Leadership Theory, Research, and Application
  • Strategic Leadership
  • Leading Complex Change 

Concentration - Business and Data Analytics

  • Managing Data as an Asset
  • Operations Performance Management 
  • Application of AI in solving business problems  

Concentration - General

  • Choose a total of 3 courses from any of the five concentrations


Core Topics Covered in the Online DBA Courses

Core Topics 

Details 

Business Intelligence & Data Analytics

Acquire skills in effectively using data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to generate actionable business information.

Strategic Management

Gain insight into how to devise and actualize strategies that lead to long-term success for the organization.

Corporate Governance & Ethics

Investigate frameworks and systems of ethical decision-making, compliance, and sustainable business practices.

  

Marketing Strategy

Review how to develop customer-focused strategies and align with market transitions and business strategies.

Financial Planning & Analysis

Explore how to manage budgets, forecast trends, and improve decision-making related to finances 

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Investigate how to uncover opportunities, develop new business models, and ignite growth.

Leadership Development

Develop the leadership skills that enable you to lead change in a team environment and foster innovation.

Business Research Methods

Develop skills in research methods and data analysis tools to inform evidence-based decision-making.

 

DBA Specializations and Elective Options

DBA Specialization

Focus Area

International Business

  • Global Strategies
  • International Business Policy
  • International Marketing
  • International Finance
  • Emerging Market Multinationals
  • Open Innovation and its Impact on Business and Society

Healthcare Management 

  • Global Population Health
  • Globalisation and Healthcare
  • Digitisation in Healthcare (e-health)
  • Econometrics for Healthcare (Data Envelopment Analysis)
  • Big Data and Machine Learning in Health Economics
  • Financial Management and Decision-making in Healthcare

Finance 

  • Investments
  • International Banking
  • Securities Analysis
  • Personal Financial Planning
  • Private Equity and VC
  • Fintech

Human Resource Management 

  • Leadership Management
  • Negotiation & Bargaining
  • Change Management
  • Managing people
  • Business Ethics
  • Talent Management

Marketing 

  • Marketing Strategy
  • Global Branding Strategies
  • Role of A Salesperson
  • Pricing
  • Marketing Research
  • Consumer Behaviour

Supply Chain Management

  • Fundamentals of Logistics and Supply Chain
  • International Logistics
  • Risk analysis and assessment
  • Distribution and freight logistics
  • Supply Chain Modelling and Design
  • Procurement Management

Data Science

  • Foundations Python
  • Business forecasting and projections
  • Business Analytics
  • Business Predictive Analysis
  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • Mathematics for Machine Learning

Big Data 

  • Foundations Python
  • Business forecasting and projections
  • Business Analytics
  • Business Predictive Analysis
  • Big Data Foundation
  • Applications of Big Data

Sustainability

  • Government and Environmental Policy
  • Economic Analysis of the Energy Sector
  • Business Continuity and Risk Management
  • Energy and Sustainable Business
  • Enterprise and Circular Economy
  • Sustainability Entrepreneurship and Innovation

 

Hands-On Projects and Practical Experience

Practical experience turns learning into expertise, giving you a competitive edge in the DBA field. 

  • Applied Research: Solve real business problems with proven research methods.
  • Real-World Projects: Work on challenges businesses face today.
  • Experiential Learning: Apply knowledge to practical business situations.
  • Problem Solving: Create solutions for complex organizational issues.
  • Industry Relevance: Learn through real, industry-focused challenges.

Fee, Duration, and Flexibility of the Online DBA Courses

  • Doctor of Business Administration Fee: An online DBA program in Canada can be pursued at an affordable tuition fee ranging between CAD 13,400 and CAD 89,400.
  • Duration: 24 Months to 36 Months
  • Flexibility: 100% online with complete flexibility.
  • Fully Online Program with Smart Learning Tools:

Learn at your own pace using our intuitive, AI-Powered platform that fits in with your goals. 

  • Connect to a Global Network:

Build a long-lasting bond with classmates and professionals from all over the world.

  • Curriculum Reflects Today's Industry Needs:

Learn skills and knowledge you can apply to real business problems.

  • Flexible and Affordable Program:

Study on your own time and don't go broke doing it.

  • Live Learning from Industry Professionals:

Gain hands-on experience and insights from the leaders of today who are shaping the business world.

  • Personalized Career Support: 

Get mentorship, coaching, and one-on-one support to help you achieve your career goals.

  • Help Tackle Real Business Challenges: 

Utilize your learning through the practical case studies and real-world challenges.

  • Designed for Canadian professionals:

To meet the needs of Canada’s unique business environment and the opportunities that exist.

Canada-based professionals seeking to enroll in flexible online DBA programs can explore several well-known DBA universities offering the program digitally.  Each of these institutions features a flexible and accessible DBA program for working professionals in Canada. Each program has its own set of distinctive features to meet different educational and professional objectives, along with varied learning preferences

University

Mode

Duration

Accreditation

Key Highlights

Golden Gate University

100% Online

36 Months

WASC-Accredited

Design your own concentration by selecting any four available courses.

Edgewood University

Optional on-campus

Immersion

24 Months

HLC-Accredited

Immersion and Networking Opportunities

Rushford University

100% Online

36 Months

Member of AACSB, ACBSP, and IACBE

Delivery architecture designed for working professionals

ESGCI

Optional on-campus

Immersion

36 Months

The French Ministry of Higher Education-Accredited

Blended Format of Delivery (Online Plus 5-Day Optional Immersion in Paris)

 

Choosing the right online DBA program in Canada can set the stage for your career success. Here’s how to find the perfect fit:

  • Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by the best global and national associations.
  • Specializations: Look for options that fit your career aspirations.
  • Faculty Expertise: Look for professors with practical expertise.
  • Flexibility: Look for options that offer flexibility, such as the ability to graduate part-time or online.
  • Career Support: Look for options to include mentorship and resources for career opportunities

While earning an online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree in Canada can be costly, scholarships and financial aid can make it more attainable and affordable. Online platforms such as upGrad offer online DBA programs that help working professionals maintain flexibility while reducing financial barriers.

Common scholarships and financial assistance for an online DBA in Canada can include:

  • Merit-Based Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships are for academic or professional excellence
  • Need-Based Aid: help for credits to those students with financial difficulty
  • Executive Scholarships: Administration or Distinguished Fellowships or Financial Aid credit for students enrolled in  closed or restricted programs for Mid-Career or Senior Executives
  • Research Grants: Fund dissertation or applied business research projects
  • Fellowships & Awards: Recognizing evidence of business leadership, innovation, or actionable contributions to business practice.

Pursuing an online DBA in Canada is the way forward for professionals seeking to enhance their career growth with sharp leadership skills and expertise to handle practical business issues.  

Here are some key benefits of pursuing this degree:

  • Career Advancement: Opens doors to executive and leadership roles.
  • Practical Learning: Focuses on solving business problems with research-based strategies.
  • Global Recognition: Earns a respected qualification from accredited Canadian institutions.
  • Flexible Study Options: Designed for working professionals with part-time and online formats.
  • Leadership Development: Builds skills to influence decision-making at senior levels.
  • Entrepreneurial Growth: Helps scale businesses with proven management practices.

What are some of the cheapest DBA programs in Canada?

Online DBA programs are affordable and easy to pursue, as you can complete these programs while continuing your job. Some of the best Doctor of Business Administration, Canada programs that can be availed in Canada are:

Can I work full-time while pursuing the DBA course in Canada?

Yes.  If you pursue an online DBA program in Canada, you can balance your studies with a full-time job.

Is an Online DBA Program Recognized in Canada?

Online DBA programs that are available from credible and reputable universities and institutions are recognized in Canada. 

What Will You Learn in This DBA Course?

DBA Canada courses enable students to apply advanced research in solving real-world business problems and inform strategic decision-making. Candidates develop leadership skills, enhance managerial expertise, and gain insights to influence business growth through DBA programs. 

How Much Does a DBA Cost in Canada?

An online DBA program in Canada can be pursued at an affordable tuition fee ranging between CAD 13,400 and CAD 89,400.

How to Apply for the DBA Program with upGrad?

To apply for the DBA program with upGrad, visit their website, choose the Canada-specific DBA course, fill out the Doctor of Business Administration online application form along with SOP and work experience, and submit. The admission panel will shortlist candidates after reviewing their CVs and other relevant details. Shortlisted candidates will receive the admission offer letter.

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Key Offerings of upGrad’s Online DBA Program

Services to Help You Achieve Your Goal

Access the various career development support services offered by upGrad to help you achieve your professional goals.

Cost Effective

  • Further your career at 1/10 of the cost to the same on-campus program

Learn and Earn

  • Get world-class credentials without leaving your job from the comfort of your home

Industry Driven

  • Learn through a curriculum created by the industry for the industry
  • Learn and get coached by accomplished practitioners from around the world.

Flexible

  • Experience world-class education on-demand through our proprietary app and website. 

Unparalleled Support

  •  24 x 7 Support augmented with chatbot
  • Get expert verified resolutions for all your doubts within hours
  • Weekly live sessions with scholar-practitioners on doubts, career & communication

Career Preparation

  • 1-1 Career Coaching
  • Career preparation modules
  • AI-powered Profile builder
  • Just-in-time mock interviews
  • Post-program career support 

Industry Mentorship

  • Receive mentorship from leaders in the domain to help you reach your desired goal

Networking

  • Get world-class credentials without your job from the comfort of your phone

Get Started with a free course

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Disclaimer

upGrad does not grant credit; credits are granted, accepted or transferred at the sole discretion of an educational institution. upGrad does not make any representations regarding the recognition or equivalence of the credits or credentials awarded, unless otherwise expressly stated. If you intend to pursue a post graduate or doctorate degree upon completion of this course or apply for employment which requires specific credits, we advise you to enquire further regarding the suitability of this degree for your academic and/or professional requirements before enrolling.