Are you planning to step into executive leadership or top management roles and wondering how to make the ascent? For middle to senior-level professionals seeking corporate leadership, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program provides the ideal blend of advanced research, practical experience, and strategic business planning skills.
A DBA program is the highest degree in Business Administration and is equivalent to a PhD in the subject. You can complete this online degree, designed for experienced leaders looking to drive businesses, in 36 months or less. This blog explores some of the top online DBA programs ideal for senior professionals in Singapore.
Best Online DBA Programs Tailored for Leadership in Singapore
For senior professionals seeking to advance into strategic and executive roles, online DBA programs provide the ideal blend of academic depth and leadership development. These programs are designed to accommodate busy schedules while delivering high-impact learning to address today’s business challenges. Here are some of the best online DBA programs to explore:
| Program | University/Institution | Duration of the Program | Program Benefits |
| Doctor of Business Administration – Golden Gate University | Golden Gate University | 36 months | – Optional on-campus immersion in San Francisco, USA. – Live & interactive sessions. – Dissertation workshops. – Design your concentration by selecting any four available courses, or choose from an existing concentration. |
| DBA in Emerging Technologies with a concentration in Generative AI, Golden Gate University | Golden Gate University | 36 months | – Up-to-date modules integrated with Generative AI. – 24×7 student support. – Scholarships available. |
| Doctor in Business Administration – Edgewood College | Edgewood College | 24 months | – Accelerated 24-month program journey. – Personalise your DBA. – Choose any one concentration. – 1:1 thesis supervision. – 24×7 student support available. |
| Dual Degree MBA and DBA – Edgewood College | Edgewood College | 30 months | – Doctorate in the domain of your choice. – Personalise your Dual Degree. – Choose any one concentration. – No standardised testing required. |
| Doctor of Business Administration – ESGCI | ESGCI | 36 months | – 24×7 student support – 1:1 Thesis supervision – Optional on-campus immersion. – Dissertation workshops. |
| Doctor of Business Administration – Rushford Business School | Rushford Business School | Up to 36 months | – Offers a balance of curriculum and research. – Dedicated Student Support available. – Dissertation workshops. |
Also Read: Choosing the Right DBA Format in Singapore: Full-Time, Part-Time, or Online?
What to Consider When Choosing an Online DBA Program
Before choosing the right DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) program, it’s essential to take a step back and evaluate your personal and professional circumstances and commitments. Considering the right questions can help you align your DBA aspirations with your career goals.
Flexibility to work while pursuing your DBA.
If you plan to continue with your work commitments together with your studies, a DBA program gives you the flexibility to do so. These formats are designed for professionals who want to apply what they learn directly to their current roles.
Your long-term career goals
Your future aspirations should heavily influence your decision. If you aim to pursue a DBA to strengthen leadership skills and step into executive or strategic roles, an online DBA offers practical and focused learning while continuing your job.
Accreditation
Pursuing a DBA from an accredited institution is crucial, as you are investing time, money, and effort in advancing your career. Accreditation makes your degree globally recognised and valued by employers.
Faculty & Curriculum (Specialisation)
A DBA curriculum designed to meet the needs of working professionals seeking career advancement must strike a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical, research-driven applicability. Moreover, the role of experienced faculty members and mentors is equally critical.
By weighing some key crucial factors as per your career goals, you can choose an online DBA program to fit into your current job position and for long-term success.
Accelerate Your Leadership Journey with upGrad’s Online DBA
The online DBA degree programs offered through upGrad provide complete flexibility and can be completed at your own pace, allowing you to continue your career without interruption. upGrad Singapore’s DBA offerings are tailored to suit the needs of experienced professionals aspiring to lead executive positions in the corporate world. You can explore some of the popular upGrad DBA programs offered in collaboration with globally renowned universities to enrol in a suitable DBA degree.
Also Read: DBA vs. MBA: Which One Provides Better Career Growth in Singapore?
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FAQs on Online DBA Programs for Senior Management Roles in Singapore
Q: What is the difference between a PhD and a DBA?
Ans: The main difference between a PhD and a DBA degree lies in their scope of research and career orientation. The time commitment and study costs are other differences between the two degrees.
Q: Do employers in Singapore respect online DBA Programs?
Ans: Yes, online DBA programs are increasingly valued and respected by employers in Singapore, particularly those offered by accredited and well-known universities or institutions.
Q: How long does it take to complete an online DBA?
Ans: An online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program typically takes 3-5 years to complete. However, some programs offer accelerated options that may allow completion in 2 years or so.
Q: Can I pursue an online DBA while working full-time?
Ans: Yes, many online DBA programs are designed for working professionals, enabling them to pursue their doctorate while maintaining a full-time position.
Q: Do I need an MBA to apply for a DBA?
Ans: An MBA is not mandatorily required to apply for a DBA; however, a master’s in business administration is a preferred background for a doctorate in business administration.
Most DBA programs require a master’s degree, which can be an MBA or any other relevant master’s degree.
