The PhD in Management and DBA programs will both require you to take advanced business courses and spend time on in-depth study. However, there’s a difference in how you earn each degree. For the PhD in Management, you will typically complete a dissertation in which you conduct scholarly and original research with the goal of bringing new information to light and making an original contribution to the field of business management. For the DBA, you will typically complete a doctoral study in which you conduct scholarly and original research focused on developing a practical solution to a business problem.

At Walden, you can choose from an array of program specializations—in addition to a Self-Designed option—to tailor your studies to your experience and interests. These specializations include Organizational Design and Innovation, Information Systems Management, 21st Century Finance, Leadership and Organizational Strategy, and Human Resource Management. The Self-Designed option gives you the opportunity to create your own PhD in Management specialization so that you can align your program with your personal and professional goals.

Virtually all PhD programs—regardless of the focus area—require students to complete and submit a dissertation. At Walden University, the dissertation requirement serves as the culmination of a student’s PhD in Management studies. While a formidable challenge, this undertaking gives each student the opportunity to apply everything they have learned throughout the program into a research paper that’s tailored to their interests and can make a lasting impact in the field.

Academic residencies, skills labs, and pre-practica are face-to-face or virtual learning experiences that align with your online coursework to enhance your skill development, scholarship, and professional practice. Required for most PhD programs, residencies also provide students with the opportunity to collaborate and network with other students, staff, and faculty members. Academic residencies may be held virtually or in person. Walden’s PhD in Management program requires that students complete four residences prior to graduation.

In recent years, online education has become increasingly commonplace as more and more universities put their courses online. When deciding where to earn your PhD in Management degree online, be sure to choose an accredited institution. While earning a PhD may increase your salary and boost your employability, it can also increase your opportunities to influence and gain the respect of those in your organization and the field at large. As a doctoral degree holder, you’ll be in possession of specialized knowledge that others may seek out, offering you the chance to make a greater impact on society.

When it comes to finding the best online academic institution, reputation is key. Walden University has been leading adult learning and developing distance education programs for more than 50 years. Walden has built an online culture and ecosystem from the ground up, continuously refining the experience to meet student needs. Now more than ever, working professionals need online access to an accredited university that enables them to achieve their goals. At Walden, students and graduates can benefit from a variety of support services as they work to earn their degree, advance their career, and effect positive social change.