The ESGCI DBA degree is a professional doctorate degree (school degree) issued by the school (ESGCI) which is nationally recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education. The global Doctor of Business Administration from ESGCI is a 36-month course that offers you two interim certificates along with a directorship and board advisory certification from PwC India.

Accredited by the French National Directory of Professional Certifications (RNCP) and holding the esteemed QUALIOPI certification, ESGCI delivers unparalleled academic credibility.

During the three years of pursuing this online Doctor of Business Administration from ESGCI, you will engage in advanced research and practical business applications, perfect for experienced professionals looking to upskill.

Did you know? With this DBA, you get a complimentary 1 Month of Microsoft Copilot Pro – where you'll get free access to Microsoft’s AI-powered tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Copilot Chat, and more) to boost productivity, generate insights, and apply learning instantly. Exclusively available via upGrad.

1. See a Real Salary Jump

A DBA from ESGCI can seriously level up your earning potential. Roles like Strategy Director, VP of Ops, or even Management Consultant often come with paychecks ranging from $120K to well over $200K globally.

• In India, senior execs typically earn between ₹10 L to ₹50 L
• In the U.S., you're looking at USD 90K - USD 300K (₹76 L to ₹2.5 Cr), depending on the industry and company.

2. Accelerate Your Career Growth

Most learners move into senior leadership roles within a year of completing the program. The ESGCI brand from Paris gives your profile a strong global edge.

3. Learn Skills That Set You Apart

Build real expertise in strategic thinking, AI-led decision making, and high-level business problem solving. You’ll also get comfortable using digital tools like NVIVO, Google Forms/Survey Monkey, which top companies rely on today.

4. Get Future-Ready

Executive roles needing strategic minds are growing fast, up 6% by 2033 (U.S. BLS). With a DBA from ESGCI, you're not just keeping up—you’re staying ahead.

Your dream DBA is AI-powered now

• Accelerate Your DBA Journey: Use Microsoft Copilot to streamline your research process, from topic selection to data analysis, within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, reducing research time significantly.
• AI Mastery for Research: Gain practical skills to integrate AI ethically, enhancing efficiency and uncovering deeper insights, empowering your research journey.
• Precision Topic Selection: Receive expert guidance and AI assistance to pinpoint, refine, and validate your research topic, unlocking your potential.
• Exclusive Copilot Pro Access: Experience 3 months of Microsoft's AI tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneDrive, Copilot Chat) for free, giving you a head start.
• Elevate Your Research: Master AI tools early to focus on advanced analysis and make significant scholarly contributions, fast-tracking your doctorate.

Disclaimer: This value-added offering is being provided solely by upGrad, and the University does not have any role/involvement in it.

The ESGCI online DBA program is purpose-built for experienced professionals who aim to merge research with real-world business applications. While a PhD focuses on academic theory, the DBA prepares you to lead change in the workplace using data, strategy, and leadership tools.

With global recognition, flexible online learning, and a curriculum that emphasizes strategic leadership, the DBA from ESGCI stands apart as a transformative program for today’s leaders.

Comparison: ESGCI DBA (via upGrad) vs. Traditional PhD Programs

Choosing ESGCI for online studies ensures you are joining an institution with a legacy of academic excellence and globally recognized credentials.

1. Prestigious Legacy and Membership

• Established in 1986: ESGCI has a proven track record spanning over four decades, offering quality education that stands the test of time.
• RNCP Recognition: ESGCI’s programs are registered under the French National Directory of Professional Certifications (RNCP), awarding qualifications at levels 6 (Bac+3) and 7 (Bac+5), which are recognized by the French State.
• ACBSP Member: As a member of the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), ESGCI adheres to global standards of excellence in business education.

2. Quality Assurance and Global Networking

ESGCI is certified under QUALIOPI, demonstrating its commitment to high-quality training and excellence in educational delivery. Besides, the university is a part of the Galileo Global Education. This means that you will have access to the Galileo network of 91 campuses spread across 13 countries.

By choosing ESGCI, you align with an institution renowned for its academic rigor, global accreditation, and commitment to shaping future business leaders.

Earning a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree opens doors to a variety of advanced career opportunities, enabling you to apply your expertise across multiple sectors.

Here are some potential career paths for DBA graduates.

Expected Yearly Salary Range

India:

• Chief Executive Officer (CEO): INR 9L to INR 42L
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO): INR 20L to INR 75L
• Chief Operating Officer (COO): INR 23L to INR 92L
• Management Consultant: INR 20L to INR 30L
• Human Resources Director: INR 15L to INR 50L

USA:

• Chief Executive Officer (CEO): USD 1L to USD 3L (approx. INR 85.60 Lakhs to INR 2.57 Crores per year)
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO): USD 2L to USD 3L (approx. INR 1.71 Crores to INR 2.57 Crores per year)
• Chief Operating Officer (COO): USD 1L to USD 2L (approx. INR 85.60 Lakhs to INR 1.71 Crores per year)
• Management Consultant: USD 85k to USD 153k (approx. INR 72.76 Lakhs to INR 1.31 Crores per year)
• Human Resources Director: USD 69k to USD 168k (approx. INR 59.06 Lakhs to INR 1.44 Crores per year)

 Note: INR values are approximate and based on an exchange rate of 1 USD = ₹85.60. Actual salaries may vary depending on location, company, experience, and industry trends.

Throughout the DBA program at ESGCI, you'll gain a well-rounded set of advanced skills to excel in leadership and strategic roles.

• Advanced Research Methodologies: Master both qualitative and quantitative research techniques to analyze complex business challenges and formulate effective solutions.
• Strategic Leadership: Enhance your ability to lead teams and organizations, driving change and promoting innovation.
• Global Business Acumen: Gain insights into international markets and cross-cultural management, preparing you to operate effectively in a globalized economy.
• Ethical and Responsible Decision-Making: Address ethical concerns in leadership and ensure accountability in performance and operations.
• Data-Driven Analysis: Learn to interpret and utilize data for informed decision-making, employing contemporary analytical tools and frameworks.
• Innovative Problem-Solving: Develop the ability to think critically and creatively, and handle business issues with innovative and research-driven strategies.

These competencies will empower you to excel in senior leadership roles, drive organizational success, and contribute meaningfully to the business community.

What Tools Will You Learn?

As part of the online Doctor of Business Administration degree from ESGCI, you’ll master tools that empower you to conduct advanced research, enhance your leadership skills, and drive impactful decision-making.

• CliftonStrengths™ Assessment: Discover and refine your unique leadership traits with this globally recognized tool, designed to help you harness your strengths for effective team and organizational management.
• Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis Software: Use specialized tools to collect, interpret, and present data, enabling robust research and evidence-based decision-making.
• Strategic Business Frameworks: Learn how to apply advanced business models and frameworks that solve real-world challenges and promote innovation.

Each tool has been carefully integrated into the program to ensure you graduate equipped with hands-on expertise and the confidence to lead in dynamic global environments.

The ESGCI Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program is designed to cater to the needs of ambitious professionals who seek world-class education without compromising on their careers.

Here’s why the online format makes it the ideal choice.

1. Comprehensive and Recognized Credits System

Earn 180 European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) credits, a widely recognized standard across Europe and beyond. This ensures that your degree has a high academic value and can be utilized for opportunities globally.

2. International Immersion Experience in Paris

Participate in an optional 5-day immersion in Paris, gaining exposure to international business practices while networking with global peers and esteemed faculty.

3. Flexibility and Accessibility Through 100% Online Learning

This program allows you to complete your doctorate while working full-time so that you can benefit from focused and self-paced learning.

4. Competitive Financial Offerings

At a total cost of INR 8,14,000, the program is competitively priced and offers flexible payment plans starting at just INR 19,475 per month.

5. Enhanced Learning Outcomes

• Top-Tier Academic Resources: ESGCI provides access to modern tools like the CliftonStrengths™ Assessment to help refine your leadership strengths.
• Research-Focused Curriculum: Engage in comprehensive research that addresses real-world business challenges, preparing you for leadership roles.

6. A Cohort of Leaders from Top Companies

• Seasoned Professionals: Collaborate with peers, boasting over 12 years of professional experience, bringing a wealth of real-world knowledge to the classroom.
• Cross-Industry Collaboration: Engage with leaders from 10+ industries, expanding your professional network across diverse fields.

The online education market, which is currently growing at a CAGR of 8.56%, is expected to jump from USD 185.20 billion in 2024 to USD 279.30 billion in 2029. But why such a major shift toward online learning, you ask? Here are the numerous advantages of pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) through upGrad that have fueled online education like a wildfire.

1. Flexibility and Convenience

• Self-Paced Learning: DBA online courses from ESGCI, in association with upGrad, allow you to study at your own pace, accommodating your professional and personal commitments. This flexibility is crucial for working professionals aiming to advance their education without compromising their careers.
• Elimination of Commute: Studying online removes the need for commuting, saves time, and reduces the stress associated with travel cost. This convenience enables you to allocate more time to your studies and personal life.

2. Accessibility

Online education provides access to programs worldwide, allowing you to enroll in prestigious institutions without geographical constraints. In fact, as per Statista, there will be 1,121 million users of the online education market by 2029. This accessibility broadens your educational opportunities and exposes you to diverse perspectives.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

• Reduced Expenses: Online learning often reduces costs related to transportation, housing, and campus facilities. Additionally, the ESGCI DBA cost online is far less than similar on-campus courses. Many studies have shown that offline education is approximately 66% more expensive than online education.
• Financial Flexibility: upGrad provides flexible payment plans for online learners, making advanced education more affordable.

4. Enhanced Learning Experience

• Interactive Technologies: Utilizing multimedia tools, online learning can enhance engagement and improve knowledge retention. Studies suggest online learning increases retention to 25%-60%, compared to 8%-10% in traditional settings.
• Immediate Application: The ability to apply learned concepts directly to your current job can reinforce learning and demonstrate immediate value to your employer.

5. Career Advancement

• Skill Enhancement: The DBA online courses from ESGCI focus on developing critical skills such as strategic thinking, leadership, and research proficiency, which are highly valued in the business world.
• Employer Recognition: Employers increasingly recognize the credibility of online degrees, especially from accredited international institutions, acknowledging the discipline required to complete such programs.