Washington State's Best Online Doctor of Business Administration Programs
Getting an online DBA in Washington is a great career move for anyone looking to be a business executive or leader. Continue reading to learn more.
In the early 2000s, a master’s in business administration (MBA) set someone on the fast track to high-level roles. Now, MBAs are common, and the Harvard Business Review reports that the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is the new degree required for the C-suite.
While a DBA is an excellent opportunity to showcase your skills, it can be hard to commute to and from campus, especially in states with growing populations like Washington. That’s where online DBAs come in. Continue reading to learn about getting an online Doctor of Business Administration in Washington, plus career options after graduating.
Online DBA Programs in Washington: School Spotlights
Wondering what makes an online Doctor of Business Administration in Washington stand out? The answer will be different for everyone since the right program components vary from individual to individual. That said, some programs stand out in terms of curriculum, affordability, and flexibility, including the three below.
City University of Seattle
City University of Seattle offers an online DBA in Washington. This ACBSP-accredited program covers topics like financial decision making, business process analysis, industry analysis, and technology implementation. Students select from seven areas of focus: technology, operations, strategy, DEI, innovation, ethics, or leadership. No matter what concentration a student chooses, all DBA components can be completed online.
Students are also required to complete a dissertation under faculty supervision. This can be done online or in a hybrid format, depending on a student’s preference.
While this program is appropriate for business professionals, it’s also designed for STEM leaders who want to grow their business acumen, and the application requirements differ depending on your educational and work background. Most students complete the program within three years, even if they work full-time while getting their degree.
Franklin University
Liberty University’s online Doctor of Business Administration program is 100% remote and is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The online DBA program consists of 60 credit hours divided into 8-week courses. Motivated students could graduate in as little as three years, and the tuition is competitively priced at $595/credit hour for full-time study and $650/credit hour for part-time study. Military members may be eligible for tuition as low as $300 per hour! Some previous MBA coursework may be eligible for credit through the program’s generous transfer policy.
This DBA program offers 17 specializations, including strategic management, international business, finance, and accounting. DBA students can supplement their coursework with online resources and help from full-time research assistants available through the school’s library.
Marymount University
Marymount University offers a 100% online DBA that can be completed in Washington state. The program focuses on business intelligence, making it a good fit for those who want to explore the intersection of business and technology. Courses cover topics like making data-driven decisions, effective business strategies, and leading in a changing business climate. The program also features ample space for electives, allowing students to customize the DBA to their professional interests.
Alongside coursework, students also complete a dissertation. This multi-year project includes original research and must be defended in front of a committee of Marymount faculty. Like other course components, the dissertation can be completed virtually. Combined, the coursework and dissertation take about three years to complete. However, students may need more time to complete the program if attending part-time.
DBA or PhD in Business: Which Degree Do You Need?
Wondering what the difference is between a DBA and a PhD in business? The chart below dives into the specifics, including the purpose and length of each and funding options.
| DBA | PhD in Business | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To understand how to apply different business principles to real-world situations | To advance the scholarship and research around best business practices |
| Student Type | Mid-career professionals | Early- to mid-career professionals |
| Career Goals | Take on a leadership role within the private sector | Work in academia as a researcher, professor, or both |
| Funding | Usually self-funded or reimbursed by an employer | Can be funded through fellowships, scholarships, and teaching assistant positions |
| Prerequisites | A master’s degree in a related field and business experience | A master’s degree in a related field |
| Length | 3-4 years | 5-6 Years |
| Capstone | Major project or portfolio | Dissertation |
Specializations in Washington State Online DBA Programs
Business is a far-reaching industry. To become a true expert, you may want to specialize in a particular area of business, like marketing or finance. Below, we’ve outlined five DBA specializations that correlate to in-demand occupations in Washington.
Healthcare management
There’s a significant need for healthcare managers in Washington, and DBA candidates who specialize in how healthcare and business intersect are well-positioned to meet this demand. Courses in this specialization often focus on ensuring a healthcare organization is profitable and balancing profit with providing excellent patient care.
Marketing
Marketing managers and public relations managers are both greatly needed in Washington state. Specializing in marketing is a great way to stand out when applying for managerial roles in these fields. DBA candidates specializing in marketing will dive into advanced marketing principles and leadership skills specific to this industry.
Finance
Financial managers and executives are another fast-growing sector in Washington state. Plus, these individuals command top salaries. A finance specialization can cover complex topics and theories around finance, such as how to ensure a company is profitable and balancing human capital and other expenses, as well as the leadership skills required to run a finance department.
Leadership
Another fast-growing career path in some counties of Washington state is that of chief executive. These individuals lead the company and often have a DBA on top of years of business experience. To set yourself apart when applying for C-suite roles, consider a specialization in business leadership. This concentration focuses entirely on different leadership principles and styles.
Human Relations
Those passionate about training, education, and professional development may want to specialize in human relations. This concentration focuses on how to motivate teams and help employees carve their professional paths. DBA graduates with this concentration often work as vice presidents of human resources or in other HR leadership roles.
How Much an Online DBA in Washington State Costs
Earning a DBA is a serious financial commitment. Fortunately, there may be affordable programs out there, and financial aid can lower the costs.
While tuition is high for online DBA programs, online students save on transportation costs and have an easier time balancing work and school, leading to fewer lost shifts and paychecks. Budgeting for your DBA can also ease financial stress. You could, for example, ensure there’s money set aside when the tuition bills arrive. Before we dive into other financial aid options, let’s dive into the costs for three DBAs in Washington.
| School | Program | No. of Credits | Est. Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| City University of Seattle | Doctor of Business Administration | 91 | $72,345 |
| Marymount University | Doctor of Business Administration | 36 | $48,240 |
| Franklin University | Doctor of Business Administration | 60 | $44,880 |
Financial Aid for Washington DBA Majors
The upfront cost of a DBA is expensive, but there are financial aid opportunities that can reduce how much you pay for a DBA. These opportunities include scholarships, fellowships, grants, and student loans. There are even scholarships tailored for DBA candidates, which often have less competition than general ones. Plus, DBA-specific scholarships may come with opportunities to attend networking events, conduct research in the field, or participate in other organized activities that can bolster your career.
On top of degree-specific opportunities, you may also want to consider financial aid options specifically for Washington residents. Like DBA-specific scholarships, these have less competition and may be easier to win. The Washington state government, for example, provides multiple financial aid programs, including need-based and merit-based opportunities.
Washington State DBA Graduates’ Career and Salary Outlook
What exactly can you do with a DBA? We’re glad you asked. The DBA is a flexible degree that allows graduates to seamlessly transition into leadership positions across business sectors. There are some business roles with higher demand and growth rates in Washington, including the three careers outlined below.
| Career | Median Pay (2023) | 90th Percentile Pay (2023) | Job Outlook (2023-33) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chief Executives | $206,680 | $239,200 | 6% |
| Financial Managers | $156,100 | $239,200 | 17% |
| Public Relations and Fundraising Managers | $130,480 | $212,730 | 7% |
Chief Executives
Chief executives are the heads of companies, either as CEOs or in leadership roles specific to one area of business, such as marketing or finance. Typically, chief executives have a DBA alongside an impressive resume. If interested in this role, it may behoove you to take extra courses in leadership or specialize in business leadership. Unlike the other two featured roles, this job isn’t in demand across the entire state. Still, the number is growing in Spokane and the southwest and south-central areas of Washington.
Financial Managers
Financial managers combine experience in finance with an MBA or DBA, with the DBA distinction making someone a more attractive candidate. Leaders in finance are in demand across the state of Washington, and they have a healthy earning potential. The abilities to manage a team, understand how a business’ finances work, and how the financial department can integrate with other business departments are all invaluable in this role.
Public Relations and Fundraising Managers
While a DBA isn’t required for all public relations roles, many companies like to hire public relations managers and executives who have education in business alongside years of experience. Plus, the public relations and fundraising field is growing quickly across Washington state, especially at the managerial level. As a public relations or fundraising manager, you can help a business or nonprofit maintain its image, develop a good relationship with the media, and raise funds for philanthropic causes. It’s a great career path for those who want to use their business acumen to improve their community.
FAQs About Online DBA Programs in Washington
Are online DBA programs more affordable than in-person programs?
The tuition cost of online DBAs varies greatly. Some are more affordable than in-person programs, while others are around the same price. Where the online DBA stands out is in its ability to mitigate other costs, mainly student fees and transportation costs. Online students may also be able to maintain their full-time employment, which can help lower the need for loans.
How long does it take to earn a Washington State DBA online?
Earning a DBA in Washington State usually takes about three to four years. There are some programs nationwide that can be completed in one year, but these programs may be harder to find in Washington.
Is a dissertation required for an online DBA in Washington?
Most DBA programs require a dissertation. However, because a DBA focuses on how to apply business practices to companies and not how to conduct original research, many programs have a capstone project instead. If finding a no-dissertation DBA in Washington state is important, ask admissions representatives about graduation requirements before applying.
Useful Resources Students in Online DBA Programs in Washington
- Association of Washington Businesses
Entrepreneurial students may want to join the state’s business association. This group regularly puts on networking events, educational seminars, and more for business owners in Washington. - Business Impact NW
Those who are passionate about the impact businesses can have on the Pacific Northwest should consider joining this organization. The group even offers free business coaching and seminars. - Seattle Society for Marketing Professional Services
Those who work and/or study marketing in the Seattle area may want to consider joining this group. The society hosts networking events and seminars to help professionals develop leadership skills. - Washington State Healthcare Leaders Association
If you are interested in the business side of healthcare, consider joining this group in Washington state. - Washington Workforce Development Council
DBA candidates who want professional development resources should consider exploring the events and seminars hosted by the state’s workforce development councils. These councils are divided up by region, and many events are in-person.