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Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program is designed to prepare advanced business leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, strategists, consultants, and global professionals who can lead organizations through innovation, digital transformation, sustainable growth, and strategic leadership in a rapidly evolving global economy.
PURPOSE
The Doctor of Business Administration program is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in business administration, strategic management, and leadership, all within a framework grounded in Christian values. This program prepares students to take on leadership roles in organizations, drive business innovation, and contribute to the development of ethical and sustainable business practices. Especially, this program emphasizes the integration of Christian principles with the application of theory to real-world business challenges, equipping students with the expertise needed to make informed decisions, lead complex organizations, and contribute to the advancement of business practices globally.
Philosophy
The Doctor of Business Administration program is grounded in an innovation-driven, leadership-centered, and globally engaged philosophy of business education. The program emphasizes strategic thinking, ethical leadership, interdisciplinary problem-solving, digital transformation, sustainability, entrepreneurial innovation, and practical application of advanced business knowledge. The program seeks to cultivate visionary leaders capable of integrating research, technology, and global business strategies for organizational excellence and societal impact.
Emphases Competencies
The Doctor of Business Administration program develops advanced competencies in Strategic Leadership and Executive Management, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation, Global Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Sustainability and Crisis Management, Aviation Systems and Strategic Operations, Global Maestro Human Management, Real Estate Investment and Auction Management, Health Care Management, Organizational Change and Innovation, International Business Strategy, Data Analytics and Business Intelligence, Financial and Resource Management, and Applied Business Research. Strategic Business Leadership and Market Innovation
OBJECTIVES
Upon completing this degree, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of business theories, strategic management practices, and organizational leadership necessary to lead effectively in dynamic, technology-driven, and globally competitive business environments.
- Apply executive leadership, innovation management, digital transformation strategies, and data-driven decision-making skills to solve complex organizational challenges, improve operational performance, and promote sustainable growth.
- Conduct applied business research utilizing analytical, quantitative, and qualitative methodologies to generate strategic insights, support organizational decision-making, and contribute to professional business practice and industry advancement.
- Demonstrate ethical leadership, global business competence, and cross-cultural management skills by integrating social responsibility, sustainability, and international perspectives into organizational strategy and professional practice.
- Integrate interdisciplinary business competencies in entrepreneurship, financial management, organizational innovation, crisis management, and emerging technologies to develop transformative solutions for evolving global markets and industries.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Applicants seeking admission to a doctoral degree program must submit the following:
- Completed Application for Admission
- $100.00 non-refundable application fee
- A brief autobiographical statement
- Official Transcript Verifying Completion of an Appropriate Master’s Degree
- Minimum GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 Scale (or equivalent)
- Minimum of Three Years of Significant Professional Experience Following the Master’s Degree
- Doctoral Application Essay
- Recommendation from a Professor, Employer, or Professional Leader
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae
- Two Recent Photographs for Student dentification
The University reserves the right to request interviews, additional documents, writing samples, portfolios, or other materials when deemed necessary for admission consideration.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
- Complete the prescribed doctoral program within five academic years. A maximum of seven years may be granted upon approval of the Academic Dean.
- Successfully complete all required coursework and program requirements.
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.
- Earn no grade below “B” in doctoral-level coursework. A grade of “C” constitutes unsuccessful completion of the course.
- Successfully pass all required qualifying examinations.
- Successfully complete the dissertation, doctoral project, or equivalent culminating research requirement.
- Successfully complete the oral defense of the dissertation or doctoral project.
- Complete all practicum, internship, residency, or professional engagement requirements, where applicable.
- Satisfy all financial obligations to the University.
- Receive approval for graduation from the appropriate faculty and academic administration.
- Complete GE 500 Worldview unless waived through approved biblical or theological coursework.
- Complete Service Leadership Engagement Program (SLEP)
- Successfully complete the required Capstone Graduation Program and On-Campus Residency Requirement.
The University reserves the right to establish additional graduation requirements for specific academic programs as approved by the faculty and administration. The program integrates business theory, applied research, executive leadership, technology innovation, global entrepreneurship, crisis management, and industry specialization to develop transformational leaders equipped for the future of business and society.
Service Leadership Engagement Program (SLEP)
The Service Leadership Engagement Program is designed to cultivate servant leadership, ethical responsibility, professional integrity, and community engagement through structured leadership service activities. Doctoral students participate in community service, organizational leadership projects, and professional engagement experiences that strengthen ethical leadership and social responsibility competencies.
COURSES
Core Courses
12 Credit Hours(Select 3 courses)
| DB 811 Advanced Strategic Management and Leadership | 4 |
| A comprehensive study of executive leadership theories, strategic decision-making, and transformational organizational leadership in complex business environments. The course examines strategic planning, competitive advantage, organizational change, and leadership effectiveness through real-world case studies and global business applications. Students develop advanced strategic thinking and executive-level leadership competencies for sustainable organizational success. | |
| DB 812 Applied Business Research and Data Analytics | 4 |
| An advanced examination of qualitative and quantitative business research methodologies, organizational analytics, and evidence-based managerial decision-making. The course emphasizes research design, statistical interpretation, predictive analytics, and the application of data-driven strategies in solving contemporary business challenges. Students develop practical research skills for executive leadership and doctoral-level scholarly investigation. | |
| DB 813 Global Business Ethics, Governance, and Innovation | 4 |
| A study of ethical leadership, corporate governance systems, global regulatory frameworks, and innovation management in international business environments. The course explores ethical decision-making, corporate social responsibility, governance structures, and innovation strategies for sustainable organizational growth. Students analyze complex ethical and governance issues affecting multinational organizations and global markets. | |
| DB 814 Innovation Strategy and Creative Leadership | 4 |
| An examination of innovation management frameworks, creative leadership theories, and strategic innovation processes within organizations. The course focuses on organizational creativity, disruptive innovation, entrepreneurial thinking, and leadership practices that foster innovation cultures. Students develop strategies for leading innovation initiatives in dynamic global markets. | |
| DB 815 Global Sustainability and Future Development | 4 |
| An exploration of sustainability principles, future global development trends, and strategic organizational adaptation in changing business environments. The course examines ESG leadership, environmental sustainability, economic resilience, and future-oriented business systems that support long-term organizational effectiveness. Students evaluate sustainable development strategies within global and cross-cultural contexts. |
Emphases Courses
16 Credit Hours(Select 4 courses)
1. AI & Digital Transformation Strategy
| DB 821 Artificial Intelligence and Business Innovation | 4 |
| A study of artificial intelligence technologies, intelligent systems, and AI-driven innovation strategies for modern organizations. The course examines automation, predictive analytics, machine learning applications, and digital business transformation processes that improve organizational efficiency and strategic competitiveness. Students analyze emerging AI trends shaping future industries and executive leadership. | |
| DB 822 Digital Transformation and Organizational Change | 4 |
| An examination of digital transformation models, organizational adaptation strategies, and technology-driven change management processes. The course explores digital disruption, innovation ecosystems, organizational restructuring, and leadership strategies required to successfully manage technological transitions. Students develop frameworks for leading digital transformation initiatives across industries. | |
| DB 823 Business Analytics and Strategic Data Systems | 4 |
| A study of business intelligence systems, strategic analytics, and organizational data management for executive decision-making. The course focuses on data visualization, predictive modeling, analytical frameworks, and performance measurement systems that support strategic business operations. Students learn to interpret complex data for organizational planning and competitive advantage. | |
| DB 824 Emerging Technology and Future Business Strategy | 4 |
| An exploration of emerging technologies, future business systems, and innovation-driven strategic leadership in global organizations. The course examines blockchain, IoT, cybersecurity, digital ecosystems, and future technology trends influencing business transformation. Students evaluate strategic opportunities and risks associated with rapidly evolving technological environments. | |
| DB 825 AI Governance and Ethical Technology Leadership | 4 |
| A study of AI governance systems, ethical technology frameworks, and responsible digital leadership in global organizations. The course examines AI ethics, regulatory compliance, digital accountability, and strategic governance practices affecting emerging technologies. Students evaluate ethical challenges and leadership responsibilities within AI-driven business environments. | |
| DB 826 Smart Organizations and Digital Ecosystems | 4 |
| An exploration of smart organizational systems, digital ecosystems, and technology-enabled business transformation strategies. The course focuses on connected enterprises, intelligent operations, platform economies, and digital integration models that enhance organizational competitiveness. Students analyze future-ready digital business systems and innovation leadership practices. |
2. Global Entrepreneurship & Innovation, and Strategic Leadership
| DB 831 Global Entrepreneurship and Venture Development | 4 |
| A study of entrepreneurship, venture creation, startup ecosystems, and global business development strategies. The course examines opportunity recognition, business model innovation, entrepreneurial leadership, and venture sustainability within international markets. Students develop entrepreneurial competencies necessary for launching and managing innovative business ventures. | |
| DB 832 Innovation Strategy and Organizational Transformation | 4 |
| An examination of innovation leadership, organizational creativity, and strategic innovation systems in competitive business environments. The course focuses on creative problem-solving, innovation implementation, and leadership approaches that stimulate organizational growth and transformation. Students explore strategies for fostering innovation-driven organizational cultures. | |
| DB 833 Global Market Strategy and Competitive Leadership | 4 |
| A study of international market entry strategies, global business expansion models, and cross-cultural management practices. The course examines globalization, international trade systems, strategic partnerships, and market positioning strategies in multinational business operations. Students analyze global business challenges and develop international growth strategies. | |
| DB 834 Investment, Venture Capital, and Business Growth | 4 |
| An exploration of investment management, venture capital systems, startup financing, and organizational growth strategies. The course examines capital acquisition, investment analysis, financial sustainability, and strategic growth planning for entrepreneurial ventures. Students evaluate funding models and investment strategies that support long-term business expansion. | |
| DB 835 Digital Enterprise and Future Business Innovation | 4 |
| A study of digital entrepreneurship, startup innovation systems, and technology-driven enterprise development in global markets. The course explores digital business models, innovation ecosystems, startup scalability, and entrepreneurial leadership strategies for future-focused organizations. Students analyze emerging trends shaping digital enterprise growth. | |
| DB 836 Executive Leadership and Strategic Growth | 4 |
| An examination of entrepreneurial leadership principles, strategic organizational growth, and innovation-driven business expansion. The course focuses on executive decision-making, business scalability, leadership agility, and strategic transformation within entrepreneurial organizations. Students develop leadership competencies for sustainable venture growth and organizational innovation. |
3. Global Sustainability, ESG, and Resilient Leadership
| DB 841 Sustainable Business Strategy and ESG Leadership | 4 |
| A study of sustainability frameworks, ESG principles, and responsible organizational leadership in global business environments. The course examines environmental stewardship, ethical governance, social responsibility, and sustainable business practices that contribute to long-term organizational value. Students develop sustainability-driven leadership strategies for future-focused organizations. | |
| DB 842 Crisis Leadership and Organizational Resilience | 4 |
| An examination of crisis management systems, organizational resilience frameworks, and executive leadership strategies during emergencies and disruptions. The course explores crisis communication, decision-making under uncertainty, disaster response, and organizational recovery planning. Students develop leadership competencies for managing complex organizational crises effectively. | |
| DB 843 Climate Risk, Energy Transition, and Future Sustainability | 4 |
| A study of climate risk management, renewable energy systems, carbon reduction strategies, and future sustainability. The course examines operational risk, financial risk, security threats, and emergency preparedness strategies essential for organizational stability and resilience. Students learn to design comprehensive risk management and recovery frameworks. | |
| DB 844 Sustainable Innovation and Circular Economy Leadership | 4 |
| An examination of circular economy systems, sustainable innovation, green technologies, ESG transformation. and future enterprise leadership. The course examines global sustainability initiatives, environmental policy trends, and long-term development strategies affecting organizational leadership. Students analyze future-oriented solutions for sustainable business growth. | |
| DB 845 Strategic Crisis Communication and Stakeholder Engagement | 4 |
| A study of crisis communication systems, public trust management, organizational reputation, recovery leadership strategies, and stakeholder management during organizational emergencies. The course examines media relations, public communication, organizational reputation management, and post-crisis recovery planning. Students develop executive communication competencies for crisis response and organizational stabilization. | |
| DB 846 Global Risk Management and Business Continuity | 4 |
| An exploration of global security systems, organizational continuity planning, and strategic resilience management within complex business environments. The course focuses on geopolitical risk, cyber threats, operational security, and continuity leadership strategies that support organizational sustainability. Students evaluate integrated approaches to long-term organizational protection and resilience. |
4. Aviation Systems & Strategic Leadership
| DB 851 Aviation Systems and Global Operations | |
| A study of aviation systems, global aviation operations, and strategic management within international aviation industries. The course examines airline operations, airport systems, aviation logistics, and global aviation infrastructure influencing operational efficiency and organizational leadership. Students explore strategic management practices in modern aviation environments. | |
| DB 852 Aviation Safety and Security Leadership | 4 |
| An examination of aviation safety systems, aviation security management, and regulatory compliance in domestic and international aviation sectors. The course focuses on risk reduction, accident prevention, crisis response, and leadership strategies that enhance aviation safety performance. Students develop competencies in aviation safety leadership and security administration. | |
| DB 853 Airport and Airline Strategic Management | 4 |
| A study of airport operations, airline administration, and strategic aviation leadership in competitive global markets. The course explores aviation policy, financial management, operational planning, and customer service systems within airport and airline organizations. Students evaluate management strategies for sustainable aviation growth and operational excellence. | |
| DB 854 Future Aviation Technology and Innovation | 4 |
| An exploration of emerging aviation technologies, smart transportation systems, and innovation trends shaping the future of global aviation. The course examines unmanned aerial systems, AI-based aviation systems, advanced mobility technologies, and future transportation infrastructure. Students analyze technological innovation and strategic leadership opportunities within evolving aviation industries. | |
| DB 855 Aviation Crisis and Emergency Management | 4 |
| A study of aviation emergency systems, crisis response strategies, and operational recovery management within aviation organizations. The course examines aviation disasters, emergency coordination, safety protocols, and executive leadership practices that support operational continuity. Students develop competencies for managing complex aviation emergencies and crisis situations. | |
| DB 856 Global Aviation Policy and Regulatory Leadership | 4 |
| An exploration of international aviation regulations, aviation policy systems, and global leadership challenges affecting modern aviation industries. The course focuses on ICAO standards, regulatory compliance, international aviation governance, and strategic policy leadership. Students analyze global regulatory frameworks and aviation leadership strategies within international markets. |
5. Global Maestro Human Management
| DB 861 Global Maestro Leadership and Human Development | 4 |
| A study of transformational leadership development, human-centered organizational management, and executive leadership effectiveness in global environments. The course examines emotional intelligence, leadership psychology, organizational behavior, and strategic human development systems. Students develop advanced leadership competencies for international organizational settings. | |
| DB 862 Organizational Communication and Global Influence | 4 |
| An examination of organizational communication strategies, executive influence systems, and leadership interaction within global organizations. The course explores communication dynamics, negotiation strategies, intercultural leadership, and influence management in diverse organizational environments. Students strengthen leadership communication skills for international management and executive leadership. | |
| DB 863 Talent Development and Executive Coaching | 4 |
| A study of talent management systems, executive coaching models, and leadership mentoring strategies in organizational settings. The course focuses on leadership assessment, employee development, performance coaching, and succession planning for sustainable organizational growth. Students learn practical coaching methodologies for executive and organizational development. | |
| DB 864 Global Organizational Excellence and Innovation | 4 |
| An exploration of organizational excellence models, innovation systems, and strategic leadership practices that improve global organizational performance. The course examines quality management, organizational transformation, operational effectiveness, and innovation-driven leadership systems. Students develop strategic frameworks for achieving organizational excellence in international environments. | |
| DB 865 Human Capital Strategy and Leadership Psychology | 4 |
| A study of human capital development strategies, leadership psychology, and workforce performance systems within global organizations. The course examines motivation theory, leadership behavior, organizational culture, and psychological frameworks influencing executive leadership effectiveness. Students develop strategic approaches for enhancing organizational human performance. | |
| DB 866 Cross-Cultural Leadership and Global Team Management | 4 |
| An examination of cross-cultural leadership systems, global workforce management, and international organizational collaboration strategies. The course explores cultural intelligence, global communication, team leadership, and organizational adaptability in multinational environments. Students strengthen competencies for leading culturally diverse organizations and global teams. |
6. Real Estate Investment Management and Auction
| DB 871 Real Estate Investment and Asset Management | 4 |
| A study of real estate investment strategies, asset portfolio management, and property valuation systems in domestic and international markets. The course examines investment analysis, real estate finance, portfolio diversification, and strategic asset management for long-term financial growth. Students evaluate investment opportunities and risk management strategies in real estate markets. | |
| DB 872 Property Development and Market Analysis | 4 |
| An examination of property development processes, market analysis methodologies, and strategic planning within real estate industries. The course focuses on land development, feasibility studies, market forecasting, and investment evaluation in commercial and residential real estate sectors. Students develop analytical competencies for successful property development projects. | |
| DB 873 Auction Theory and Real Estate Transactions | 4 |
| A study of auction systems, negotiation strategies, and transactional management in real estate industries. The course examines auction theory, bidding systems, legal procedures, and strategic negotiation practices related to property transactions. Students develop practical knowledge of real estate transaction management and auction-based investment systems. | |
| DB 874 Global Real Estate Strategy and Finance | 4 |
| An exploration of international real estate systems, global investment strategies, and financial management within real estate industries. The course examines cross-border investment, global property markets, financing structures, and international development strategies affecting real estate organizations. Students evaluate global trends and financial opportunities in real estate investment. | |
| DB 875 Commercial Real Estate and Urban Development | 4 |
| A study of commercial real estate systems, urban development planning, and strategic investment management in metropolitan environments. The course examines urban economics, commercial property development, infrastructure investment, and city growth strategies influencing real estate markets. Students analyze sustainable urban development and commercial investment opportunities. | |
| DB 876 Global Property Investment and Wealth Strategy | 4 |
| An exploration of global property investment systems, wealth management strategies, and international real estate portfolio development. The course focuses on investment diversification, international financing, tax considerations, and long-term asset growth strategies within global real estate markets. Students evaluate wealth-building opportunities and strategic investment frameworks. |
7. Health Care Management
| DB 881 Health Care Leadership and Administration | 4 |
| A study of leadership principles, administrative systems, and organizational management practices within health care institutions. The course examines health care leadership models, organizational structure, human resource management, and operational effectiveness in hospitals and medical organizations. Students develop executive competencies for health care administration and organizational leadership. | |
| DB 882 Health Care Policy and Strategic Planning | 4 |
| An examination of health care systems, policy development, and strategic planning processes within public and private health care organizations. The course focuses on policy analysis, regulatory systems, health care reform, and organizational strategy affecting health care delivery and management. Students evaluate policy frameworks and strategic solutions for health care leadership. | |
| DB 883 Health Care Operations and Quality Management | 4 |
| A study of operational systems, quality assurance practices, and organizational performance improvement in health care settings. The course examines patient care systems, operational efficiency, accreditation standards, and quality management strategies that improve organizational effectiveness. Students develop leadership skills for managing health care operations and performance systems. | |
| DB 884 Innovation and Technology in Health Care Systems | 4 |
| An exploration of digital health technologies, innovation systems, and emerging medical technologies transforming health care organizations. The course examines telemedicine, electronic health systems, AI applications in medicine, and technology-driven patient care strategies. Students analyze future trends and innovation opportunities in health care leadership and administration. | |
| DB 885 Global Public Health and Health Care Leadership | 4 |
| A study of global public health systems, international health care leadership, and strategic management practices affecting population health. The course examines health disparities, global health policy, crisis response systems, and leadership strategies within international health care environments. Students evaluate global health challenges and organizational leadership solutions. | |
| DB 886 Health Care Innovation, Ethics, and Future Systems | 4 |
| An exploration of innovation leadership, ethical decision-making, and future-oriented health care systems within evolving medical environments. The course focuses on AI in health care, biotechnology innovation, ethical governance, and strategic transformation in modern medical organizations. Students analyze emerging trends and future leadership opportunities in health care industries. |
Practicum / Internship Courses
8 Credit Hours
(Students may select either Option A or Option B)
Option A: Practicum / Internship Track
8 Credit Hours
(Each course carries 1 credit hour. Students complete a total of 8 courses.)
| DB 891 Doctoral Business Practicum I | 1 |
| An introductory doctoral practicum designed to provide supervised professional experience in business leadership, organizational operations, and applied management practices. Students engage in practical observation, leadership participation, and reflective analysis within professional organizational settings. | |
| DB 892 Doctoral Business Practicum II | 1 |
| A continuation of supervised doctoral practicum experiences emphasizing advanced organizational engagement, leadership application, and strategic business problem-solving. Students demonstrate increasing professional competency through applied executive-level responsibilities. | |
| DB 893 Applied Organizational Leadership Practicum | 1 |
| An applied practicum focused on leadership development, organizational effectiveness, and executive communication within complex organizational environments. Students examine practical leadership strategies and organizational behavior through supervised field engagement. | |
| DB 894 Advanced Business Strategy Field Experience | 1 |
| A field-based experiential course designed to strengthen strategic management competencies through direct exposure to executive planning, competitive analysis, organizational innovation, and strategic implementation practices within business organizations. | |
| DB 895 Management Internship I | 1 |
| A supervised management internship providing practical experience in business administration, operational management, and organizational leadership. Students apply doctoral-level knowledge to real-world business and institutional environments. | |
| DB 896 Management Internship II | 1 |
| An advanced internship emphasizing executive leadership, organizational development, strategic decision-making, and professional management practices in global and multicultural business settings. | |
| DB 897 Global Business Leadership Practicum | 1 |
| An experiential practicum examining global leadership competencies, international business communication, cross-cultural management, and global organizational strategy. Students develop leadership skills for international business environments. | |
| DB 898 Doctoral Applied Business Consulting Project | 1 |
| A doctoral-level consulting practicum in which students analyze organizational challenges, develop strategic recommendations, and present evidence-based business solutions for institutional or corporate clients through supervised consulting projects. |
Option B: Independent Research / Study Track
8 Credit Hours
(Students may select independent scholarly research in place of the practicum track.)
Free Electives
8 Credit Hours
Dissertation
9 Credit Hours
| RS 805 Dissertation Research Seminar | 3 |
| This course provides doctoral students with comprehensive guidance in the development, design, and completion of dissertation research. Students will explore advanced research methodologies, academic writing standards, literature review strategies, data collection and analysis procedures, and ethical considerations in scholarly research. Emphasis is placed on developing a well-structured dissertation proposal, conducting independent research, and preparing scholarly work suitable for doctoral-level academic and professional contribution. The seminar also supports students through the stages of dissertation planning, organization, presentation, and final defense preparation. | |
| RS 807 Dissertation | 6 |
| A minimum of 100 pages is required for dissertations. The title of the dissertation and the subject matter to be covered must be presented to the selected Chairman of the Student's Dissertation Committee for approval prior to beginning the research project. |
Capstone
3 Credit Hours
| CP 890 Capstone | 3 |
| The Capstone course is designed as a final semester summative course for students to exhibit how their educational experience may positively influence their career. Details will be described in the Capstone syllabus. The Capstone will have three sections: 1) a research project agreed upon with their academic advisors prior to the final semester 2) a comprehensive examination 3) participation in the graduation seminars. |