Compare in 2 mins
India's leading Online Universities on a Single Platform within two minutes
Compare & Apply from 100+
Business Administration Universities
Get an
Online Discount of 15%
College Vidya Promise
Lowest Price Guarantee
PhD forWorking Professionals in Business Administration Program Overview
Choosing a full-time PhD or doctorate program becomes more difficult for a business professional. In response to this challenge, several universities have developed a PhD category specifically for working professionals. Practical expertise in the field of business administration is the main focus of this curriculum. This program category of "PhD for Working Professionals in Business Administration" is offered at different universities with a slight variation in the name. Also Read | What Is a Doctoral Degree?
In India, certain Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) have launched the PhD programs in business administration for working professionals in a hybrid or blended style. The special features of these flexible programs PhD for working professionals include a more practical approach than their standard counterparts and a duration of three to five years. To be a part of this program at IIMs, you need to pass a university-specific entrance exam or receive a good score on either of the CAT, GRE, GMAT, or JRF (UGC-NET) exams.
If you are keen to get a doctorate in business administration but are not confident about passing an entrance exam, you can go for the online version of this program. These online PhD in business administration are not offered in India but are available at accredited international universities. This category of online PhD is famous at foreign institutions by the name of Doctor of Business Administration or DBA.
These online DBA programs are completely valid in the global job market including India and make you add a “Dr.” title to your name just like a standard format of a PhD. Other than this, there will be a long list of benefits that you can avail by opting for an online DBA course. The number one on that list would be a direct admission process that does not require a high score on the GRE, GMAT, or any other entrance exam. Next in line is the alumni status of a foreign university that can be acquired at any age with this doctorate program. As the final outcome of this online DBA program, you will have access to some senior-level career opportunities in the global market.
Refer & Earn Rewards!
Refer someone and earn up to Rs.20,000 and more exciting coupons and vouchers
Transforming Careers Through Learning
Manan Panchal
Athul Anil
Deepak Chaudhary
Deepika Chandani
Yogesh Chauhan
FAQ's
Let's clear up some doubts
The basic difference between a regular PhD and a PhD for working professionals in business administration is the mode of delivery. The regular one is offered full-time in a campus-based mode and for working professionals, it is delivered in a blended mode.
Yes, by opting for an online PhD in business administration for working professionals, you can continue your job while studying.
No, an online DBA or Doctor of Business Administration is the same as an online PhD in business administration for working professionals except for the fact that an online DBA is offered by foreign universities only.
As observed at different foreign universities offering online PhD in business administration for working professionals or online DBA, the duration of the program is set as 3 years.
Yes, upon completion of your online PhD in business administration or online DBA program from an accredited foreign university, you will be allowed to use the prefix “Dr.” with your name.
No, an MBA or a master’s degree is preferred for an online PhD in business administration or online DBA program program but you can take it up even after graduation with a minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience.
In India, a PhD or DBA degree holder earns an annual average of INR 12-18 lakhs. This package is very much dependent on the skills of the degree holders and their prior experience in the field.
Checklist I Wish I Had Before Enrolling
College Vidya Smart Choice Checklist
A checklist to help you reach your goal!
Compare Universities
vs
Add To Compare
vs
Add To Compare
vs
Add To Compare
Get the right guidance with us
Download the app
Online & Distance MBA
Online & Distance Best University for
Online & Distance UG Courses
Online & Distance PG Courses
General
College Vidya is an independent education guidance platform designed to help learners compare, evaluate, and make informed decisions about accredited online and distance programs. We do not directly conduct academic programs. All admissions, curriculum structures, fee details, approvals, scholarships, and placement policies are managed and executed by the respective universities or institutions. We aim to keep information accurate and updated. For complete and official details, learners are encouraged to connect with experts from College Vidya. Our role is to simplify research and provide structured guidance throughout the decision-making process.
© 2026 College Vidya, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Built with Made in India