You’ve earned the expertise.

Now turn it into influence.

Doctor of Business Administration

Designed for senior professionals who can’t pause their careers, U.S.-accredited Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from Golden Gate University offers a 100% online learning experience with dedicated research supervision from topic selection to dissertation defense, completed in 27 months.

Type

Doctorate
Enrollment Deadline

June 29, 2026
Duration

27 Months

Who Is It For

For the Corporate Leader

Senior Operating Executive

Your Profile

15–25 years into corporate leadership at Fortune 500 firms. Senior director, portfolio manager, or VP-track professional with an MBA, ready to cross from qualified to credentialed expert.

What You're After

The doctoral credential that separates strategic thinkers from everyone else in the room. A peer cohort of other senior leaders. A research agenda that solves a real problem in your industry.

How This Program Fits

10 hours a week, fully online. Deferral available anytime your work demands it. A dedicated supervisor ensures your research stays on track even when life doesn't cooperate.

After the DBA: You step into Chief or VP roles, found advisory boards, or launch independent strategy consulting, backed by both 20+ years of domain experience and a U.S. doctoral credential.

For the Global Professional

Global Mid-Career Leader

Your Profile

10–25 years of leadership experience. Engineer, PM, facilities consultant, or development specialist seeking a globally relevant, portable credential.

What You're After

A globally recognized, properly accredited credential that proves your expertise to international employers and regulators, without relocating or pausing your career.

Why This Credential Holds

Backed by WASC accreditation and recognized by World Education Services (WES), this credential offers strong global credibility, enhancing mobility and employer trust across markets.

After the DBA: You move into international consulting, multinational leadership, or board advisory, with a credential endorsed across Canada, Singapore, UAE, and your home market.

For the Professor of Practice

Specialist with a Research Agenda

Your Profile

12–20 years deep in one domain: AI, leadership, supply chain, real estate, or data analytics. You've been reading the literature for years. You have ideas that deserve to be published.

What You're After

A program that lets you research your topic, not a generic syllabus. A supervisor who understands your field. A dissertation you can publish or turn into a book.

The Freedom You Get

Your dissertation topic is yours to choose. Your supervisor works 1:1 with you from first draft to final defense. 200+ active dissertations span every major business domain, and yours will too.

After the DBA:You launch your consulting firm, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and become the definitive expert in your field, with original doctoral research as your proof of authority.

The Advantage

Executive Leadership Edge

Accelerate your path to executive leadership. Position yourself as a strategic thinker and for VP, C-suite, and board advisory roles.

Recognized Subject Matter Expertise

Whether you are in AI, strategy, marketing, data analytics, or finance, produce research that strengthens your professional credibility and thought leadership.

Consulting & Advisory Credibility

The “Dr.” credential and dissertation research position you as a trusted consultant, advisor, or professor of practice. Your organization, clients and partners will see your credential as proof of independent analytical rigor.

Thought Leadership & Business Growth

Publish your research through GGU’s peer-reviewed journal (Journal of international DBA Studies) in partnership with the European Business Institute, while also exploring opportunities to file patents and build intellectual property.

Internationally Respected Credential

The program is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission, the same accrediting body associated with Stanford University, helping your credential gain global recognition. The credential works in Canada, Singapore, UAE, Caribbean markets, and beyond.

A Global Executive Peer Network

Learn alongside senior professionals from 50+ countries, including VPs, directors, founders, and business leaders across industries. Your classroom is not just a classroom, but a global network of peers and leaders growing alongside you.

Transform your leadership

Release your doctoral dissertation as a book

Prototype and pilot your ideas with no-code platforms

Protect your ideas with solid IPs in 155 countries

Pitch your ideas to real VCs with chequebooks

Step into academia as Adjunct Faculty or Professor of Practice

Enroll in the PwC Directorship & Board Advisory Certification

Earn Valuable Credentials & Recognition

Complete all the courses successfully to obtain this prestigious recognition from Golden Gate University.

Golden Gate University Sample Diploma_2026-1

On successful completion of the program, graduates attain the coveted Dr. title and become a part of a 120+ year education heritage with all the benefits that accompany a Doctor of Business Administration from the #1 ranked university for working professionals.

A degree from a pioneering university based in the innovation capital of the world
Full alumni status from Golden Gate University
Join a 70,000+ network of NASA astronauts, mayors, C-suite leaders, and entrepreneurs

*This image is a sample degree from Golden Gate University, awarded to eligible students upon successful completion of the program. Please contact the admissions team to learn more.

Golden Gate University’s Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program is proud to celebrate 50 years of academic excellence and professional impact. For half a century, the DBA program has empowered senior business leaders, consultants, and educators to advance their careers. With a curriculum focused on business theory, research methods, and global issues, our graduates have become thought leaders, contributing innovative solutions to contemporary strategic challenges.

As we commemorate this milestone, we honor the achievements of our alumni and reaffirm our commitment to producing graduates who not only excel in their fields but also champion ethical practices and global awareness. Here’s to 50 years of knowledge, growth, and transformation in the business world!

Your Degree Is Recognized Globally

Golden Gate University holds the same accreditation as Stanford, UC Berkeley, and USC. Your DBA is a U.S. degree recognized across Canada, Singapore, UAE, the Caribbean, and beyond. Here's what that means in each region:

U.S. Regional Accreditation

WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges). The same accreditor as Stanford, UC Berkeley, and USC. WASC accreditation is the highest standard for academic rigor, faculty credentials, and student outcomes in the U.S. Your GGU DBA carries this full institutional endorsement.

WES International Evaluation

World Education Services (WES) recognized. Your degree can be formally evaluated by WES for international employers and regulators worldwide. This is the standard credential verification pathway used by governments, professional licensing bodies, and multinational employers across Canada, Singapore, the UAE, and beyond.

AACSB Membership

Golden Gate University is an AACSB member institution. AACSB membership reflects GGU's commitment to continuous quality improvement in business education—the same standard used by the world's leading business schools.

Employer Endorsement

GGU alumni hold senior roles at Fortune 500 firms, multinational consulting practices, and global financial institutions. WASC accreditation is the credential employers in Canada, Singapore, the UAE, and the Caribbean are familiar with and accept.

Region-wise Credential Endorsement

Canada (Ontario, Alberta, BC)

WASC is recognized by provincial regulators and major employers. WES evaluation available for formal credential matching with Canadian institutions and licensing bodies.

Singapore

Leading public universities in Singapore accept WES equivalency for further academic progression. Recognized by local employers and professional bodies.

UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi)

WASC recognized by the UAE Ministry of Education. GGU provides a direct candidate attestation letter for Ministry filing. Professional licensing boards accept WASC credentials.

Caribbean (Jamaica, Trinidad, Barbados, etc.)

Regional university associations endorse WASC accreditation. WASC-accredited credentials are respected by employers and professional bodies across the region.

India & South Asia

WES recognition accepted. WASC is internationally respected. Professional bodies may require individual attestation depending on the licensing field.

WES Recognized DBA from Golden Gate University

The GGU Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is officially recognized by World Education Services (WES). This distinction affirms the program’s credibility and positions it as a gateway to global career opportunities.

Whether it is about excelling in your current job or seeking overseas opportunities, GGU DBA shall catapult you to higher orbits across continents.
Go beyond your job - Consult for businesses | Author books | Be a guest lecturer | Speak at conferences - Anywhere across the globe!

Research That Moves Industries Forward

Your expertise. Your research. Your impact.

Build research that connects directly to your industry, business goals, and leadership ambitions. Explore 200+ topics our learners are researching across five critical business domains.

Leadership & Organizational Behavior

Active student research — 42 dissertations

Collaborative Leadership in VUCA Corporate Environments
AI-Augmented Adaptive Leadership for Technological Change
Inclusive Leadership & Workforce Retention in Global Teams

Graduates architect how organizations think, change, and retain talent, moving from managing people to designing culture at scale.

AI, Technology & Digital Transformation

Active student research — 48 dissertations

Generative AI Adoption & SME Business Performance
Responsible AI Frameworks for Healthcare & Risk Functions
LLM Chatbots & Retrieval-Augmented Generation Implementation

Graduates become AI strategists, architecting machine learning ROI, managing algorithmic risk, and advising C-suite on human-AI collaboration.

Finance, Investment & FinTech

Active student research — 28 dissertations

SOX Compliance & Financial Reporting Quality
Blockchain-Based KYC & FinTech Identity Solutions
Startup Financing, Crowdlending & Capital Markets

Graduates become financial strategists, moving from analysis to boardroom-ready business cases that unlock capital and drive growth.

Supply Chain, Operations & Sustainability

Active student research — 32 dissertations

6G, IoE & Blockchain in Supply Chain Dynamics
Supply Chain Resilience in Manufacturing & Geopolitical Disruption
Circular Economy & Textile Industry Transformation

Graduates become supply chain strategists, integrating resilience, sustainability, and technology to reduce risk, cost, and carbon simultaneously.

Healthcare, Life Sciences & Wellness

Active student research — 16 dissertations

Healthcare Accreditation, Compliance & Strategic Management
Predictive Modeling for Clinical Decision-Making
AI Ethics in Mental Health & Patient Outcomes

Graduates become healthcare strategists, navigating regulation, technology, and patient outcomes to lead hospital systems and digital health startups.

Entrepreneurship, SMEs & Startups

Active student research — 26 dissertations

Women Entrepreneurs & SME Growth Strategies
Corporate Incubators & Deep-Tech Scaling
Venture Capital, Ethics & Founder Psychology

Graduates become venture strategists, founders, angels, or board members equipped to validate markets, structure funding, and scale with confidence.

Marketing, Consumer Behavior & Sales

Active student research — 36 dissertations

Cross-Cultural Consumer Psychology & Brand Strategy
AI Digital Marketing & Subscription Service Models
Emerging Market Entry & Revenue Growth Strategy

Graduates become customer strategists, unlocking consumer psychology across cultures and channels to architect revenue growth and market entry.

Real Estate, Infrastructure & Urban Development

Active student research — 14 dissertations

Post-COVID Real Estate Financial Strategy & Valuation
Smart City Economics & Urban Sustainability
Property Rights, Regulation & Market Growth

Graduates become real estate strategists, experts in navigating regulatory, financial, and sustainability complexity in property and infrastructure markets.

Program Structure

100% online learning designed for working professionals, with self-paced study, live sessions, and recorded class access.

Complete your DBA in as few as 27 months, with a standard completion timeline of 36 months.

Phase 1 — Foundation

6 months

Build your doctoral research foundation. Core seminars in business research methods, organizational leadership, and strategic management. Live sessions on weekends (all sessions recorded). Self-paced assignments fit around your working week.

Phase 2 — Concentration

6 months

Deep dive into your chosen specialization: Finance, Business & Data Analytics, Marketing, Leadership & Strategy, or General. You begin working with your dissertation supervisor to narrow your research question.

Phase 3 — Research & Dissertation

12–24 months

Your supervisor works with you 1:1 from topic selection through to thesis completion—helping you design your research, navigate methodology, and prepare for your final defense. Choose your format: doctoral thesis, published book, or applied business research report.

10 hours per week, fully online

No mandatory in-person attendance. All sessions recorded; watch on your schedule.

Deferral available anytime.

If your work or life situation changes, you can defer and re-enter the program at any point during your enrollment.

Dedicated dissertation supervisor

From the moment you select your topic to your final defense, one supervisor is assigned to your journey, ensuring you always know the next step.

Specialized concentrations

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

Flexible Learning Journey.

Some candidates complete in 24 months; the program accommodates up to 27 to 36 months. You set the pace.

Network with your peers in San Francisco (Optional)

You may choose to join a 5-day on-campus experience in San Francisco around Month 18 for intensive workshops, research guidance, and networking with peers and faculty.

Curriculum

This program requires completion of 12 units in the foundation courses, 12 units in the concentration courses and 32 units in dissertation, for a total of 56 units.

2-3 Years Completion Time

1:1 Thesis Supervision

56 Units

27 Months

This course develops advanced academic writing and research skills aligned with doctoral-level standards. Emphasis is placed on clear, concise, and precise scholarly writing suitable for dissertation development and professional publication. Through recorded lectures, structured writing assessments, and interactive online activities, students strengthen their ability to conduct ethical research and critically analyze, integrate, and synthesize scholarly literature.

This course introduces advanced research design and statistical analysis methods, including survey and experimental design, multivariate analysis, regression, factor analysis, and time series techniques. Students develop skills to interpret statistical findings in scholarly literature and apply analytical methods using statistical software through hands-on analysis of research datasets.

This course examines contemporary qualitative research methods in business, including open-ended interviewing, focus groups, and case study analysis. Students explore the philosophical foundations of qualitative inquiry, learn to use qualitative research software, and develop skills for effective analysis and presentation of qualitative data.

Complete 12 units from one of the following concentrations:

Finance
Business & Data Analytics
Marketing
Leadership & Strategy
General

This course guides students in developing a doctoral dissertation proposal that contributes original knowledge to their field. Students formulate a research topic, conduct a preliminary literature review, and outline the study context, significance, data sources, and proposed methodology. The course is graded on a credit/no credit basis.

This course supports students in completing and defending their doctoral dissertation proposal under faculty mentorship. Students develop and present the first three dissertation chapters, including the introduction, literature review, and research design and methodology. Emphasis is placed on establishing research significance, aligning with existing scholarship, and presenting a rigorous and testable research plan. The course is graded on a credit/no credit basis.

This course enables students to complete an original doctoral dissertation that contributes to knowledge in their field. Following proposal approval, students conduct independent research under faculty supervision, develop analysis and conclusions, and produce a final dissertation meeting academic and APA scholarly standards. The course is graded on a credit/no credit basis.

Specializations

Select a specialization that aligns with your interests and career goals.

Topics

Corporate Finance
Financial Theory and Applications
International Finance

Topics

Managing Data as an Asset
Operations Performance Management
Application of AI in Solving Business Problems

Topics

Marketing Management
Consumer Behavior
Digital Marketing and New Media

Topics

Leadership Theory, Research and Application
Strategic Leadership
Leading Complex Change

Choose a total of 3 courses from any of the 4 concentrations

One Doctorate. Three Ways to Defend It.

Your dissertation should match how you think and what you want to build next. GGU now lets you choose your final research output, from a traditional thesis to a practitioner book or a doctoral-level business plan with a working prototype.

Track A: Academic

Doctoral Thesis

The classical scholarly route: original empirical research with a full literature review, methodology, and defense before a faculty committee.

Format: 60,000–80,000-word dissertation

Best for: Future faculty, peer-reviewed publications, and university appointments

Outcome: Defendable thesis and a journal-ready manuscript

Track B: Published Author

Practitioner-Focused Book

Submit your doctoral work in the form of a Practitioner-Focused Book (PFB), designed to translate research into actionable insights for practitioners and industry leaders.

Format: Manuscript

Best for: Consultants, CXOs, keynote speakers, thought leaders

Outcome: Published book + Dr. credential + speaking platform

Track C: Business Leader

Doctoral Business Plan

Research becomes a venture. Pair rigorous market analysis with a working prototype or finalized product and defend it as your doctoral contribution.

Format: Research-backed business plan + functional prototype/MVP

Best for: Founders, intrapreneurs, product leaders, VC-track operators

Outcome: Investor-grade business plan + shipped product + Dr. title

Hear from our learners

Get hands-on and rigorous mentorship from acclaimed industry practitioners.

Nandini Jha

Senior Data Scientist @mamaearth

“I enrolled in upGrad's MBA program in with high hopes for advancing my careers”

Nandini Jha

Senior Data Scientist @mamaearth

“I enrolled in upGrad's MBA program in with high hopes for advancing my careers”

Nandini Jha

Senior Data Scientist @mamaearth

“I enrolled in upGrad's MBA program in with high hopes for advancing my careers”

Published works by GGU's DBA community

Our learners publishing at the forefront of AI, business, and digital transformation.

The Rise of AI Agents - Co-Editor, McFarland (2026)

Dr. Smrite Goudhaman

Designation: Adjunct Professor & DBA Mentor | Pre-Sales Solutions Manager, Datamatics Region: India

The World Remade by Artificial Intelligence

Dr. Ratheesh Venugopal

Designation: Director (Principal), Data Center Regional ITPM – EMEA, Microsoft

The World Remade by Artificial Intelligence: Perspectives on Applications, Impacts and Ethics (Advances in Public Planning)

Dr. Thi Thanh Tam Dang

Designation: CEO & Founder, Rubie Marble

AI-Augmented Learning Pathways - Journal, JIDS (2025)

Dr. Albert Lee

Designation: Business Management Consultant

AI-Driven Smart Factories: Transforming Manufacturing Through Intelligence and Automation - Journal, JIDS

Dr. Musarrat Hussain

Designation: Founder, Hackaback Technologies

The World Remade by Artificial Intelligence

Dr. Daniel Tan

Designation: Associate Lecturer, Singapore Institute of Management

The Impact of Corporate Governance on Financial Performance: An Analysis of Small-Cap Companies Listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange

Dr. Patrick Wong

Designation: Non-Executive Director, Huscoke Holdings Ltd

Advances using AI - The Next Wave

Dr. Vanamali Somanchi

Designation: Adjunct Lecturer, TEG International College

The World Remade by Artificial Intelligence

Dr. Sonny Panesar

Designation: Executive Director at UBS

Impact of Mentor’s Adaptive Leadership Style on Mentees’ Overall Performance in Indian Academia Operating in a Hybrid Mode: An ADKAR Model Perspective with Artificial Intelligence Integration

Dr. Deepak Kumar Mitra

Designation: Head Sales and Marketing Head Sales and Marketing, Praneetha EcoCables

The Leadership Compass: Principles for Leading Self, Teams, and Communities

Dr. Guo Qiang Tan

Designation: Professor of Practice, GGU

The effects of communication, empathy, encouragement, growth, and rewards on employee performance: A structural equation modeling approach.

Dr. Px Perez

Designation: Assistant Operations Manager / Project Manager, CPG Facilities Management Pte Ltd (CPG FM)

Bridging the Gap: A Comprehensive 10-Step Approach to Future-Ready Competency Development

Dr. Prasad Tarapure

Designation: Program Manager | Smart Factory, Saint-Gobain INDEC4.0

The Rise of AI Agents

Dr. Jody Salas

Designation: Associate Director, Accenture

Program Tuition

USD 520/month after merit scholarship

Most candidates receive a merit scholarship on the USD 65,800 programme fee — you'll know your exact amount before you commit. Less than one year's tuition at a traditional MBA, for a terminal doctoral degree.

Disclaimer: Adjustments might apply due to exchange rate changes. The tuition fee is subject to annual revision effective June 2026.

TUITION FEE
Program Tuition
$768 USD/month after merit scholarship
Pay as You Progress
$768/month
30 equal monthly installments • no interest
Upfront Payment
$20,727
One-time • up to 10% additional fee waiver
Most candidates receive a merit scholarship on the $65,800 program fee — you'll know your exact amount before you commit. Less than one year's tuition at a traditional MBA, for a terminal doctoral degree.

Whom will you learn from?

Instructors

Dr. Mick Mcgee

Director, DBA Program

Director, DBA. Served as a Military Officer for 24 years and has been in the teaching industry with GGU for 22 years now.

Dr. Joaquin "Jay" Gonzalez

Professor

Vice Provost for Global Affairs & Founding Dean, GGU Worldwide. Public and Urban Affairs Professor, Practitioner, and Author.

Dr. Anita Manohar

Professor

Professor, School of Business and Chair, Finance Department.

Dr. Sia Zadeh

Associate Professor

Associate Professor, School of Business, Chair, Data Analytics Department.

A showcase of milestones, leadership, and growth from our alumni.

GGU DBA: Graduate Stories

Dr. Richard R. Khan, DBA, MBA, PMP, CPMAI

AI & Technology Leader | Scholar-Practitioner in AI Strategy & Governance

Celebrating the completion of his DBA journey at Golden Gate University, Dr. Richard Khan reflected on the collective achievement of his cohort and the relationships built throughout the program. His work continues to focus on responsible AI, governance, and real-world technology leadership.

VIKASH CHANDRA

Director, BPL-FTA Energies Pvt Ltd

Vikash Chandra marked the culmination of his DBA journey at Golden Gate University with a commencement ceremony in San Francisco. Reflecting on years of research, case studies, and academic rigor, he described the experience as both demanding and deeply fulfilling.

Kevin Shepherdson, SkillsFuture Fellow, FIP, CIPP/A/E, CIPM

CEO, Straits Interactive Pte Ltd

Kevin Shepherdson completed his DBA in Generative AI after an intensive 2.5-year journey. His research focused on AI ethical breaches and governance, reinforcing his commitment to helping organizations understand and implement responsible AI practices.

Winarni Saftarya Gultom, S.P., M.M., CPM (Asia)

Lecturer

For Winarni Saftarya Gultom, earning a DBA at Golden Gate University represented years of discipline, resilience, and balancing leadership, family, and academic responsibilities. Her journey strengthened her strategic thinking and reinforced her belief in education as a tool for transformation.

Dr. Jonathan Liew

AI, B2G, BD, ET, PP Practitioner

Dr. Jonathan Liew completed his DBA in Emerging Technologies with a concentration in Generative AI in under two years. As one of the earliest graduates of the program, his journey reflected a commitment to aligning academic research with the rapidly evolving AI industry.

Dr. Smrite Goudhaman

AI Governance | Human-Centred AI | Global Professor

After 15+ years in digital transformation and industry leadership, Dr. Smrite Goudhaman pursued a DBA that allowed her to balance career, family, and research. Her doctoral work explored AI-powered learning models in hospitality, now implemented at scale within industry operations.

Dr. Gus Lazopoulos, DBA, MBA, BTech

Co-Founder & CEO, Peresia Technologies Inc

Dr. Gus Lazopoulos completed his DBA with research focused on startup financing challenges and their impact on economic growth and job creation. His work contributes to broader conversations around entrepreneurship, funding ecosystems, and business sustainability.

Guo Qiang TAN

Multidisciplinary Scholar-Practitioner

Guo Qiang TAN’s DBA dissertation explored the impact of transformational leadership on employee performance within SMEs in Singapore. His doctoral journey focused on generating practical leadership insights that help organizations build stronger and more resilient teams.

Dr. Sagar Phuria

Healthcare Strategist | Clinical & Operational Management Leader

Dr. Sagar Phuria’s doctoral research on multigenerational leadership in healthcare has been selected for presentation at the NABH Patient Safety Conference 2025. His work explores how age-diverse leadership teams can improve patient safety and operational performance in hospitals.

Dr. Manisha Gudka

Family Business & Family Office Advisor

Dr. Manisha Gudka completed her doctorate with research focused on entrepreneurship and social psychology within Indian family businesses. Her journey reflects decades of experience across governance, strategy, and family business advisory.

Dr. Sandeep Arora

Business Leader | Startup Investor | Certified Independent Director

Dr. Sandeep Arora’s DBA research examined how organisational structures evolve as SMEs scale within the Indian IT sector. His work introduced a maturity assessment framework designed to help companies identify structural gaps and scale more effectively.

Dr. Rajan K.

Independent Advisor | Enterprise Architecture & Digital Transformation Strategist

Dr. Rajan K.’s doctoral research explored how blockchain, IoE, and future 6G technologies may shape resilient digital supply chains. His work contributes to emerging conversations around future-ready enterprise systems and digital transformation.

Dr. Hubert Tse

Founder, Porcelain Gin Distillery

For Dr. Hubert Tse, completing a DBA at Golden Gate University became a deeply transformative experience that sparked an unexpected passion for research. His journey highlighted perseverance, intellectual curiosity, and continuous learning.

Dr. Tachanun Rattanasiriwilai

Founder & CEO, Brixly Data & Technology

Dr. Tachanun Rattanasiriwilai celebrated the successful completion of his DBA dissertation journey after months of balancing academic rigor with business leadership responsibilities. His milestone reflects a strong commitment to lifelong learning and innovation.

Tung Quang Nguyen

Commercial Director – Hanoi Lead, NielsenIQ Vietnam

Tung Quang Nguyen completed his DBA in Leadership and Strategy after nearly four years of balancing professional and academic commitments. His dissertation explored leadership styles and salesperson performance within commercial banks in Vietnam.

Jeanette Lee

CEO, Envipure Group | Doctoral Researcher

Jeanette Lee’s doctoral journey began with a desire to strengthen her financial and leadership understanding. Through years of research, data analysis, and dissertation work, she discovered a deeper respect for academic rigor and lifelong learning.

Dr. Eric Orji

Healthcare Professional | DBA Graduate

Dr. Eric Orji celebrated his DBA commencement at Golden Gate University as a meaningful milestone marking the beginning of a new chapter in business consultancy, leadership, analytics, and emerging technologies.

Peta Ho

Assistant Vice President – Training & Development, GEG

Peta Ho described walking the stage at Golden Gate University’s commencement ceremony as a transformative milestone in her DBA journey. While completing her dissertation, she reflected on the global connections and academic growth the experience brought.

Josh Lau, DBA(GenAI), MBA(Oxford), AIGP

Faculty | Fullstack Developer | Change Maker

Josh Lau reflected on the broader social impact of education while celebrating Golden Gate University’s 125th anniversary commencement. His DBA journey in Generative AI reinforced the importance of accessible adult education and purpose-driven leadership.

Tulay Guneysel, BMgt, ALM, DBA Candidate, CFE

Educator and Consultant

Tulay Guneysel celebrated an important milestone in her doctoral journey at Golden Gate University. Her work focuses on AI governance, financial reporting, and audit innovation, combining academic research with professional practice.

Jiejing Chen (JJ)

AI Transformation | Venture Building | Education

Jiejing Chen reflected on the emotional significance of celebrating commencement alongside fellow doctoral peers at Golden Gate University. Her journey highlighted gratitude, perseverance, and the global community built through the program.

Cheryl Cheng

Women-in-Tech Strategist | Founder, The Second Edit

Cheryl Cheng marked a personal milestone by walking across the stage as “Dr. Cheryl Cheng,” reflecting on resilience, growth, and overcoming self-doubt throughout her doctoral journey.

Sudarshana Bhattacharya

Senior Director Analyst, Gartner | Doctoral Candidate, Generative AI

Sudarshana Bhattacharya celebrated a key milestone in her doctoral journey focused on emerging technologies and wildfire risk. Her work bridges AI research with real-world environmental impact and risk management.

Anand Jayaraman

Digital & AI Transformation Leader

Anand Jayaraman celebrated Golden Gate University Commencement 2026 as a reflection of perseverance, continuous learning, and purposeful leadership. His journey highlights the intersection of digital transformation, AI, and executive leadership.

Dr. Prasad A Modali

Chairman’s Office – Reliance Industries

Dr. Prasad A Modali completed his DBA journey while balancing decades of professional leadership experience. His reflections focused on lifelong learning, resilience, and the pursuit of deeper academic and strategic thinking.

Michael Wentworth

Managing Director, Apprenticeships Are Us Limited

Michael Wentworth’s doctoral research explored ethical leadership and corporate governance within the Australian not-for-profit sector. His work reinforced the importance of values-driven leadership and sustainable organisational impact.

Phi Song Thi Nguyen

DBA Candidate, Golden Gate University

Phi Song Thi Nguyen reflected on the inspiration and sense of accomplishment experienced during commencement celebrations at Golden Gate University, while continuing forward in the next phase of the doctoral journey.

Dr. Jeffrey Gardiner

Vice President of Cyber Data Risk & Resilience

Dr. Jeffrey Gardiner completed his DBA with research focused on the convergence of cybersecurity and risk management. His journey was marked by extraordinary resilience, overcoming major personal health challenges while pursuing doctoral research.

Adam Guerguis

AI Strategy Consultant

Adam Guerguis described earning his DBA as the most humbling experience of his life, shaped by years of research, revisions, and persistence. His reflections highlighted the realities of academic rigor in the age of AI.

Sonny Zulu

CEO & Managing Director, Standard Chartered Bank Zambia

Sonny Zulu reflected on carrying Zambia’s representation during Golden Gate University’s commencement ceremony with pride and responsibility. His doctoral milestone symbolised resilience, leadership, and purpose-driven growth.

Daniel Ola Joseph

Governance, Risk & Ethical AI | Financial Crime Risk Mitigation | Operational & Cyber Risk

Daniel Ola Joseph completed his doctorate with research exploring how AI can strengthen risk management within financial institutions. Built through conversations with 52 banking, cybersecurity, and AI professionals, his work focused on the practical realities of financial crime, operational risk, and responsible AI governance in today’s evolving risk landscape.

Dr. Naveen Gothe

AI Engineering | Machine Learning | Business Analytics

Dr. Naveen Gothe completed his doctoral degree following years of research, innovation, and collaboration in AI and data science. His journey reflected a commitment to advancing emerging technologies through both academic and industry contributions.

How to Apply?

There are 4 simple steps in the Admission Process which are detailed below:

Eligibility

Master's Degree (or equivalent) or Bachelor's Degree with 5+ years of work experience.

Complete the Application

Fill in details of your education, work-experience and submit your Statement of Purpose (SoP)

Application Review

Admission panel reviews the SOP and candidate profile to assess fitment

Receive the Offer Letter

Shortlisted candidates are sent the Offer Letter

Reserve your Seat

Pay a block amount to reserve your seat, pay the balance amount subsequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the minimum eligibility for this program?

Master's Degree (or equivalent) or Bachelor's Degree with 5+ years of work experience.

2. How do I become eligible for the scholarship? What is the application process?

The scholarship is rolled out based on academic and professional achievements. Once the application form is submitted with these details, the admissions committee reviews the same. If you are admitted into the program, the scholarship that you are eligible for will be mentioned on the offer letter. Please note that admission is provisional until successful verification of supporting documents and completing the payment formalities.

1. What are the career opportunities available after completing the program?

Earning a DBA from GGU can lead to career opportunities in corporate leadership, academia, consulting, entrepreneurship, research, the public sector, and more.

2. What is the admission process?

The admissions process is completely online. The following are the key steps in the application process:

Step 1: Complete Application

Fill in details of your education, work-experience and submit your Statement of Purpose

Step 2: Application Review

Admission panel reviews the SOP and candidate profile to assess fitment

Step 3: Receive the Offer Letter

Shortlisted candidates are sent the Offer Letter

Step 4: Reserve Your Seat

Pay a block amount to reserve your seat, pay the balance amount subsequently

3. What kind of certification will I get after completion of this program?

Post successful completion of this program, you will be awarded a DBA degree from Golden Gate University.

4. How will I receive my Diploma/Certificate?

DIGITAL DIPLOMA & CERTIFICATE

Golden Gate University (GGU) offers certified electronic diplomas and certificates, known as CeDiploma or CeCertificate, featuring a unique 12-digit Certified Electronic Document Identifier (CeDID). Unlike traditional transcripts, graduates may share these digital diplomas an unlimited number of times due to the unique CeDID and validation services. Graduates may also print copies of their electronic diploma, to use when an official diploma or certificate is not required. Each CeDiploma and CeCertificate is highly secure, digitally signed, and encrypted, ensuring validation by employers, licensing agencies, and other entities that need to verify a graduate's authenticity.

OFFICIAL HARDCOPY DIPLOMA

The learners will also receive an Golden Gate University’s Official hardcopy of the diploma upon graduation. This hardcopy diploma does not include a serial number because it is not an “official” academic record as aligned with standard practice in U.S. universities. The hardcopy is only meant for display.

NOTARIZED DIPLOMA

If a learner requires, a notarized diploma can also be issued to them. This hard copy of the diploma would have a notarized letter stapled to it. These are typically necessary only for students from European Union countries to obtain the Apostille from the California Secretary of State. There is more information available at https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/request-apostille and here https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/apostille-faqs/

1. What is the refund policy for this program?

Refund Policy:

1. You can claim a refund for the amount paid towards the Program within the duration mentioned on the Offer Letter, by visiting www.upgrad.com and submitting your refund form via the "My Application" section under your profile. You can request your Admissions Counsellor to help you in applying and withdrawing for a refund by sending them an email with reasons listed. There shall be no refund applicable once the program has started. This is applicable even for those students who could not complete their payment, and could not be enrolled in the batch opted for. However, the student can avail pre-deferral as per the policy defined below for the same.

2. Student must pay the full fee within seven (7) days of payment of the deposit amount or batch start date, whichever is earlier; otherwise, the admission letter will be rescinded.

3. Request for refund as per point no. 1 of the refund policy must be sent via email in the prescribed refund request form. The refund will be processed within 30 working days of submitting the duly signed refund form, after being duly approved by the Academic Committee.

Learner Support

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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.

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You’ve earned the expertise. Now turn it into influence. Doctor of Business Administration

Doctor of Business Administration

Who Is It For

Senior Operating Executive

Your Profile

What You're After

How This Program Fits

Global Mid-Career Leader

Your Profile

What You're After

Why This Credential Holds

Specialist with a Research Agenda

Your Profile

What You're After

The Freedom You Get

Note: In addition to these three archetypes, individuals looking to solve real-world business problems and who are interested in producing impactful research output are also welcome to apply.

The Advantage

Executive Leadership Edge

Recognized Subject Matter Expertise

Consulting & Advisory Credibility

Thought Leadership & Business Growth

Internationally Respected Credential

A Global Executive Peer Network

Transform your leadership

Release your doctoral dissertation as a book

Prototype and pilot your ideas with no-code platforms

Protect your ideas with solid IPs in 155 countries

Pitch your ideas to real VCs with chequebooks

Step into academia as Adjunct Faculty or Professor of Practice

Enroll in the PwC Directorship & Board Advisory Certification

Earn Valuable Credentials & Recognition

Your Degree Is Recognized Globally

Canada (Ontario, Alberta, BC)

Singapore

UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi)

Caribbean (Jamaica, Trinidad, Barbados, etc.)

India & South Asia

WES Recognized DBA from Golden Gate University

Research That Moves Industries Forward

Your expertise. Your research. Your impact.

Leadership & Organizational Behavior

AI, Technology & Digital Transformation

Finance, Investment & FinTech

Supply Chain, Operations & Sustainability

Healthcare, Life Sciences & Wellness

Entrepreneurship, SMEs & Startups

Marketing, Consumer Behavior & Sales

Real Estate, Infrastructure & Urban Development

Choose your research topic in Month 7, after building a strong research foundation with faculty mentors and your cohort.

Program Structure

Complete your DBA in as few as 27 months, with a standard completion timeline of 36 months.

Phase 1 — Foundation

Phase 2 — Concentration

Phase 3 — Research & Dissertation

10 hours per week, fully online

Deferral available anytime.

Dedicated dissertation supervisor

Specialized concentrations

Flexible Learning Journey.

Network with your peers in San Francisco (Optional)

Curriculum

DBA 800 Doctoral Writing and Research Methods 4 Units

DBA 801 Quantitative Research and Analysis 4 Units

DBA 802 Qualitative Research and Analysis 4 Units

Concentration Course 12 Units

Complete 12 units from one of the following concentrations:

DBA 890 Dissertation Topic Proposal 8 Units

DBA 891 Dissertation Proposal Defense 8 Units

DBA 892 Dissertation Completion and Approval by Committee 12–16 Units

Specializations

Finance 12 Units

Topics

Business & Data Analytics 12 Units

Topics

Marketing 12 Units

Topics

Leadership & Strategy 12 Units

Topics

You’ve earned the expertise.

Now turn it into influence.

Doctor of Business Administration

Track A: Academic

Doctoral Thesis

Track B: Published Author

Practitioner-Focused Book

Track C: Business Leader

Doctoral Business Plan