7 Best Online Ph.D. In Business Programs 2025

In today's business world, earning a Ph.D. in Business can be a game-changer. This advanced degree not only provides deep knowledge of business theory and practice but also equips individuals with critical thinking and research skills.

Choosing the right online Ph.D. program in Business for 2024 involves considering factors like accreditation, curriculum, faculty expertise, and flexibility to suit working professionals.

With the help of this guide, Prospective students will find it easier to select their ideal program.

List of Online PhD In Business Programs for 2024

This list showcases the seven available online Phd. In Business Programs for 2024, highlighting the key features and strengths of each program.

1. Liberty University

Liberty University offers an online Ph.D. in Business Administration, accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

This program consists of 60 credit hours and can be completed in three years of full-time study. For full-time students, the tuition cost is $565 per credit hour, while part-time students pay $615 per credit hour.

It allows students to tailor their learning experience with specializations in entrepreneurship, executive coaching, and supply chain and logistics.

2. National University

National University offers an online Ph.D. in Business Administration program that can be completed in just 40 months.

This program consists of 60 credit hours divided into 20 courses, focusing on business development. Students can choose from specializations like financial management, project management, and organizational leadership.

The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), although some specializations are still undergoing the accreditation process. The tuition rate is $1,283 per credit hour.

3. Hampton University

Hampton University presents an online Ph.D. in Business Administration program that covers key areas in business like finance, marketing, and accounting.

This program is made of 61 credit hours, divided into 16-week courses, and can be completed in about three and a half years when enrolling full-time.

The tuition cost is $695 per credit hour. Prospective students should be aware of the potential residency requirements needed to complete the program.

4. University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands offers an online Ph.D. in Business program, focusing on research, teaching, and leadership skills.

The program, totaling 66 credit hours, includes core courses, professional research courses, and strategic focus courses. The cost per credit hour is set at $549, excluding additional fees.

Graduates are well-prepared for high level careers such as advertising managers, chief executives, or management analysts.

5. University of North Carolina at Greensboro

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro provides an online Ph.D. in Business Administration, ideal for those with a master's degree in business or a related field.

Designed to be completed in five years, the program comprises 54 credit hours. In-state students pay an annual tuition of $6,412, while out-of-state students are charged $20,542.

Students can tailor their degree with specializations based on their career aspirations in areas like organizational behavior, strategy, or international business.

6. Capella University

Capella University offers an online Ph.D. in Business for individuals holding a master's degree in business or a related field.

The program offers seven specializations, including general business management, accounting, and information technology management, allowing students to personalize their degrees based on their personal and career goals.

For example, the general business management specialization requires 90 credit hours, with the option to transfer up to 12 credits from previous coursework. The cost per credit hour for this program is $985.

7. Trident University International

Trident University International provides an online Ph.D. in Business Administration designed to develop students' business leadership skills.

The program requires 56 credit hours, with an option to transfer up to 28 credits from prior coursework. Students can choose from various specializations, such as finance, leadership, and marketing.

The tuition is set at $990 per credit hour, but active military members benefit from a reduced rate of $800 per credit hour.

What is the Difference Between a Ph.D. in Business and a Doctorate in Business?

The main difference between a Ph.D. in Business and a Doctorate in Business, like a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), lies in their focus.

A Ph.D. in Business is research-oriented, ideal for those aiming for a career in academia or research, with a strong emphasis on developing new theories and knowledge.

On the other hand, a DBA is more practice-oriented, targeting professionals who want to apply advanced business theories to solve real-world business challenges, often leading to leadership roles in the corporate world.

What Careers Can I Pursue with a PhD in Business?

A Ph.D. in Business opens doors to a variety of high-level careers, mainly in academia, research, and the corporate world.

You can become a university professor, engage in teaching and scholarly research, or take on administrative roles in academic institutions.

In the corporate sector, you might hold senior management positions like CEO or CFO, or work as a business analyst or consultant, offering expertise to improve organizational strategies and operations.

Additionally, a Ph.D. in Business can equip you for entrepreneurship, leading your own business ventures, or for key positions in non-profit organizations.

How Long Does it Take to Get an Online PhD in Business?

Completing an online Ph.D. in Business typically takes between three to six years, but the average is around four to five years.

This time frame can vary depending on several factors, including whether you study full-time or part-time, the specific structure and credit requirements of the program, and how long you take to finish your doctoral thesis.

Some programs might also allow credit transfers from previous graduate studies, which can shorten the overall duration.

Start Your Online Ph.D. in Business Program Now

Pursuing an online Ph.D. in Business is a significant but rewarding decision for those looking to reach the top of academic and professional achievement in the business field.

This career not only increases one's understanding of complex business concepts but also opens up diverse career opportunities, ranging from academia and research to high-level corporate roles.

This advanced degree is more than just an academic achievement; it's a transformational experience that equips individuals with the skills and knowledge to make impactful contributions in the dynamic world of business.