The average program fee of an online DBA for learners in Singapore is estimated in the range of SGD 18,100 – SGD 28,000 (approximately). The costs may vary for different universities and also from one program to another. These figures are indicative only and used for reference purposes. Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a high-level credential designed for aspiring business professionals.
The degree helps these professionals gain advanced business expertise to upskill and unlock lucrative career opportunities after DBA. Moreover, the advantage of an online DBA is that you can pursue the degree from any top international university right from the comfort of your home in Singapore!
This blog takes a deeper dive into the online DBA program for Singapore-based learners, including the exact online DBA cost and other expenses involved beyond tuition fees.
Online DBA Cost for Singapore-Based Learners Explained
An online DBA is generally more affordable for aspiring applicants compared to the conventional on-campus programs. This is generally because the program saves costs otherwise incurred on infrastructure, transport, and other maintenance expenses in on-campus DBA courses.
The table below shares the average DBA cost of online programs offered by some top global universities to help you make an informed choice:
| DBA Program | Average Cost of the Program (Approx) |
| DBA by Golden Gate University (GGU) | SGD 84,400 (up to 54% scholarship available) |
| MBA to DBA Pathway by GGU | SGD 28,000 (scholarship of up to 80% included in the on-campus tuition fee) |
| Dual Degree MBA and DBA by Edgewood University | SGD 22,100 (up to 45% scholarship on the on-campus tuition fee) |
| DBA by ESGCI | SGD 14,000 (flexible payment options) |
| DBA by Rushford Business School | SGD 13,400 |
Source: upGrad
Additional Costs Beyond Tuition
The DBA course fees generally include some add-on expenses likely to be incurred by the students, over and above the stipulated tuition fee. These expenses vary from one student to another, depending on individual lifestyle preferences and choices.
- Evaluation and administrative fees: The expenses incurred by students on exams taken, requests for academic transcripts, graduation fee, and attending seminars and workshops come under additional costs for DBA.
- Resources for digital learning: Some other expenses may not be covered under the tuition fee, such as membership in e-libraries, downloading digital course material, availing high-speed Internet access, and purchasing software tools for additional learning.
Also read: Affordable Excellence: Exploring Cost-Effective Online DBA Programs
Currency Exchange and International Payment Factors
The current currency exchange rate and charges for international payment can affect the overall cost of pursuing an online DBA for learners in Singapore.
- Fees on international payment gateways and bank charges may affect the final amount to be paid for the online DBA program.
- Fluctuations in currency exchange rates may also affect the total cost of the program if it is paid in a foreign currency.
Also Read: Salary Expectations After Completing a DBA in Singapore
Duration and its Impact on Total Cost
The total length of the program also affects the tuition fee and other living costs for students in Singapore. Shorter online DBA programs may be relatively costlier than longer courses.
- The average duration of an online DBA is around 3-5 years. Longer programs may increase the cost of studying and other learning resources.
- An extended course duration may delay career progression and higher earning potential. This leads to an opportunity cost compared to faster course completion.
Scholarships, Funding, and Employer Sponsorships
The offer of scholarships by several institutions offering online DBA programs also significantly lowers the cost of studying.
- Scholarships and funding are granted on the total tuition fee of the online DBA program based on academic merit.
- Sponsorship by employers may also be beneficial in paying a part or all of your tuition fees. Most companies sponsor online DBA courses for employees if they align with the achievement of overall business goals.
Key Factors Influencing Online DBA Cost
The overall cost of a DBA degree online relies on a lot of factors, such as the program duration, reputation of the university offering it, its accreditation, degree recognition globally, type of institution (public or private), and more.
- Course duration: The longer the duration of the online MBA program, the higher its cost. Moreover, optional immersion experiences that are a part of some courses tend to increase the price further.
- University accreditation: The overall reputation of the institution offering the online DBA program and the accreditation it has from professional bodies such as EQUIS, AACSB, or ACBSP increases the program cost.
- Academic and career support: Some institutions offering online DBA courses provide learners with a range of academic and career support services during and after course completion. These include one-on-one mentorship, virtual laboratories, plagiarism check tools, interactive platforms, etc. These also add to the total cost of the program.
Also read: Exploring Accredited Online DBA Programs in Singapore
Advancing Your Career with Online DBA Programs through upGrad
An online DBA program is more affordable than a conventional on-campus course. The exact cost of the program, however, may vary from one institution to another, depending on various factors, as discussed above. Yet, the program is a more cost-effective option for Singapore learners. Some of the best affordable online DBA programs by top global universities are available on the upGrad Singapore platform:
- Doctor of Business Administration in Emerging Technologies with Concentration in Generative AI by Golden Gate University
- Dual Degree MBA and DBA by Edgewood University
- Doctor of Business Administration by Rushford Business School
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FAQs on Cost of Online DBA Programs in Singapore
Ans: The exact fees may vary from one institution to another. However, the average cost of an online DBA course may range between SGD 13,400 and SGD 84,400.
Source: upGrad
Ans: It is generally advisable to account for hidden costs between a few hundred and 1,000 SGD in online DBA programs. These costs may include optional fees for live classes and counseling, mandatory exam fees, and charges for technology such as the Internet and software.
Ans: Yes, online DBA courses are generally cheaper than on-campus programs, as they eliminate the additional costs of commuting, accommodation, and infrastructure.
Ans: Yes, it is possible to pay the online DBA fees in installments at your convenience. Many universities offer flexible payment plans.
Ans: Yes, several online DBA programs are available with scholarship options to enable learners to finance their upskilling journey with ease.
