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Why a Doctorate in Business Administration Is Becoming More Valuable

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At the turn of the 20th century, the world was industrializing at a rapid pace. Businesses were growing larger and more complex, with more employees working in more diversified divisions spread across more geographical boundaries.

As a result, demand grew for people who had special training in managing the general operations of a business, which led to the creation and proliferation of the Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree.

More than 100 years later, MBAs have become a commodity that no longer serve organizations’ core needs.

In today’s age of data and information, knowledge has become the most valuable resource. Companies don’t necessarily need more general managers who can assess broad patterns across multiple industries—they need people with deep expertise in specific domains who can analyze data and generate unique insights that lead to better business decisions.

That’s why Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) holders are becoming increasingly valuable in the modern workplace.

DBA is a professional degree representing the highest level of qualification in management. In contrast to an MBA, it takes students on a different path toward acquiring and using business knowledge.

For an MBA, students spend two years taking a broad range of practical courses to learn about several pillars of business—such as accounting, finance, marketing, leadership, operations, strategy, and ethics—to help them become effective leaders across many industries.

By contrast, DBAs spend up to two years studying academic literature across several domains and up to two additional years designing and executing an original research project: a dissertation focused on one domain. The primary goal of a DBA is to produce scholarly individuals who have deep expertise in a field of management.

When seeking executive-level positions, DBAs’ “Dr.” titles are likely to help them stand out from their peers. DBAs can also pursue high-level positions in areas such as consulting by becoming subject-matter experts—or maintain ties with academia as full-time or adjunct professors.

DBAs’ training gives them diverse career options. The academic literature they read gives them expertise in understanding management theories that can help them analyze real-world situations and differentiate the signal from the noise. A DBA specializing in innovation can assess whether newcomers to a market pose a credible threat as a disruptive innovation to an existing company.

Students then learn advanced scientific techniques in quantitative and/or qualitative methodologies, which trains them in analyzing data to generate valid inferences that their organizations can use for decision-making purposes. Rather than relying on gut feel and graphs, DBAs can use powerful techniques such as sampling data to reduce bias, using statistical regressions to identify the strongest factors that influence an outcome, or designing an experiment to gain 100% certainty over the causal relationship between variables.

Finally, DBAs combine their business knowledge with analytical skills to design and execute original research studies, making them the world’s leading experts in particular domains.

DBAs also stand out because they represent only 2% of all people who hold higher degrees in business. In 2021, more than 250,000 students graduated with MBAs or specialist degrees in business; only 5,000 graduated with doctorates.

While a DBA may represent an attractive option that can be highly valuable to organizations today, they are not necessarily recommended for everyone.

To help you determine whether a DBA is right for you, the most important question to ask yourself centers on whether you’re satisfied with the tools and frameworks you use to analyze data and information to make important business decisions. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering where these frameworks come from—or whether there might be a better way to make decisions—consider applying to a DBA program. These programs are designed to channel deep intellectual interests and passions toward producing business knowledge that’s both theoretically novel and practically relevant.

DBA training may help you develop deeper knowledge than an MBA program will while opening doors to more ambitious careers in industry or academia. While MBA degrees are designed to meet the needs of 20th-century businesses, DBAs can help meet the needs of organizations today—and well into the future.

Learn more about how earning a DBA can help you step up your career.

Business Administration

Harvard Business School offers a two-year, full-time, STEM-designated MBA program with a general management curriculum focused on real-world practice. Becoming a student at HBS means joining a global community that propels lifelong learning and career support alongside peers, faculty, and staff who will both challenge you and cheer you on as you find and accelerate your path. Learn about joint degree programs.

Jointly administered by HBS and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, the Ph.D. in business administration grounds students in disciplinary theories and methods and trains them to apply these theories and methods in academic research on important business problems. The program has four areas of study: accounting and management, marketing, strategy, and technology and operations management. The program prepares students for a career in academia at top business schools and research institutions around the world.

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Questions about these requirements? See the contact info at the bottom of the page. 

Program of Study

The PhD degree in business administration is a jointly offered program between the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (Harvard Griffin GSAS) and Harvard Business School (HBS). The program consists of four fields: accounting and management, marketing (quantitative and consumer behavior), strategy, and technology and operations management.

Each candidate’s program of study will be developed in consultation with the faculty chair of the program and the Doctoral Programs Office at HBS. The normal program is outlined below.

Regular guidance through contact with faculty advisors is an essential component of doctoral education. Students should maintain close contact with their official advisor(s) throughout their enrollment in the program. Students are encouraged to develop informal advising relationships with several faculty members in addition to their official advisor. 

First-year advisors provide assistance during the initial stages of the program but do not necessarily advise the student throughout their studies. Students are matched with initial advisors based on their research interests. As students familiarize themselves with program faculty during coursework, research work, seminars/workshops, and other activities, they may change their official advisor(s) as their academic and research interests develop. During the early years of study, students should become acquainted with many program faculty members to identify advisors who share their research interests.

Coursework consists of a minimum of 13 doctoral-level term courses and 2 MBA term courses. Each term, students will consult with their faculty advisors to receive approval of their course selections. Areas of study may require specific courses in each of the four categories listed below:

• Discipline Courses (two courses)
• Research Methods Courses (four courses)
• Field Courses (five courses)
• Breadth Courses (two courses)
• MBA Courses (two courses)

Research Seminar and Presentation

Students are required to present in a research seminar on a yearly basis (starting in the second year). Students must also attend a weekly research seminar, ordinarily the unit (department) seminar in their area of study.

Field Exam and Paper

Students are required to pass a field exam in their area of study by the end of their second year and submit a publishable quality research paper by the beginning of their third year. Both the exam and paper are evaluated by a committee of three or more faculty members.

Teaching 

Students are required to complete a teaching engagement of one full academic term that includes in front-of-class teaching experience and teaching preparation time. 

Dissertation Proposal 

By the end of their third year, all students are required to obtain approval of their dissertation proposal by a three-member committee. In addition, students must have a confirmed dissertation chair.

Dissertation

Students are required to write a dissertation, which typically takes the form of three publishable papers, to the satisfaction of their dissertation committee. The dissertation defense is oral.

The defense must demonstrate effective analysis and evaluation of relevant data contributing significantly to the understanding and resolution of management problems. A level of professional scholarly competence should be evident during the collection, analysis and reporting of data, and in the presentation of findings.

The construction of the dissertation should be clear, concise, and orderly. It is necessary to include sufficient evidence to support the reasoning and conclusions. The length of the thesis will vary, depending on the nature of the research topic and the evidence required.

Since the principal purpose of the dissertation is to demonstrate a candidate's ability to make good use of the research methods appropriate to their problem, and to develop and handle evidence satisfactorily, the thesis should contain a statement (a) of the research procedures employed and (b) concerning the nature, reliability, and suitability of the evidence gathered.

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Harvard Business School Doctoral Programs Office [email protected] 617-495-6101

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Earning A Doctor Of Business Administration: What To Know Before You Enroll

Updated: Feb 16, 2023, 7:08am

Successful business executives are defined by their ability to solve pressing, real-world issues with accurate data and precise strategy. If you’re a business professional looking to enhance your career, a doctor of business administration (DBA) can offer a robust intellectual framework for navigating industry trends and organizational management.

Geared toward business leaders of the future, a DBA is a terminal business administration degree that offers immersive training in business analytics and applied research methods. The following guide outlines the details of doctoral programs in business administration and potential career pathways for graduates.

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What Does a Doctor of Business Administration Entail?

A DBA is a doctoral degree catered to business professionals with management experience and a master’s degree. DBA programs are research-oriented and train students to use critical, analytical methods to explore questions and develop solutions in their respective organizations and the field at large.

Some DBA programs are offered exclusively online. Others require in-person attendance through recurring weekend residencies. Most programs begin in the fall, but you should check in with your prospective school to see if it offers rolling admissions and enrollment. DBA degrees tend to be flexible and accommodate the schedules of students with full-time jobs.

Is a DBA the Same as a Ph.D. in Business Administration?

A DBA is different from a Ph.D. in business administration, and many institutions offer both degrees.

Both of these degrees require students to produce original research. DBA programs usually run part time and bolster working professionals’ methodological skills and problem-solving capacities.

A Ph.D. in business administration is a full-time, research-intensive degree geared toward students seeking academic careers—often in teaching or scholarship—or non-academic roles that require expertise in research techniques.

Doctorate of Business Administration Admission Requirements

The admissions process for a DBA program is relatively standard, though precise requirements may vary among programs. To qualify for a DBA or Ph.D. program, prospective students should hold a master’s degree and prepare to submit the following:

• Application fee
• Transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Additional essay prompt(s)

Applicants may have to complete admissions interviews, as well. Note that standardized tests like the GMAT or GRE are more commonly required for Ph.D. programs than DBA programs.

Courses in a Doctor of Business Administration Program

Most DBA programs entail about 60 credits, covering core class requirements, research methods credits and development classes for a research project. Depending on the program’s instruction format, classes can be offered in person or online via asynchronous or synchronous modalities.

A Ph.D. also requires about 60 credits beyond the master’s level. Ph.D. students must typically declare a concentration in an area such as accounting, finance, organizational behavior or international business. This focus area determines a Ph.D. student’s course trajectory. Given the interactive and collaborative nature of this research degree, Ph.D. students should expect to complete a residency as part of their program.

Note that in addition to credit requirements, DBA and Ph.D. programs typically require dissertations and comprehensive exam(s) in students’ selected topics. Most students complete DBA requirements in three years. The Ph.D. option takes about five years to complete. That said, completion times vary considerably among doctoral programs.

Core courses in a business administration doctoral program might include the following.

Financial Reporting

A course in financial reporting may cover the basics of financial accounting and forecasting. Students learn to use accounting analytics tools and discuss the value and perceived impact of reporting for a business.

Accounting and Multinational Enterprises

This course explores international accounting through a multinational, cultural lens. Studying content related to foreign transactions, taxation and financial statements, students review an array of accounting standards in an increasingly globalized world.

Sociology of Corporate Culture

This course explores sociological research on family dynamics, societal customs and contemporary consumerism patterns in the marketplace. Coursework covers ethnography and other social scientific methods to inspect an organization’s hierarchies, networks and cultural norms.

Managing, Organizing and Negotiating for Value

Negotiation is a central topic in this course. Relying on both theory and practical tactics, students come to understand the value of negotiation in individual, multiparty and even international scenarios.

Careers for a Doctorate of Business Administration

Your career options depend in part on which type of doctorate you pursue. DBA graduates are generally equipped for leadership and executive-level positions. For Ph.D. graduates, roles in academia are common, as are non-academic jobs that require specialized research training.

The following roles may suit candidates with a doctorate in business administration.

Management Analyst

Median Annual Salary: $95,290 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): +10% Job Description: Management analysts review organizational workflows and make recommendations to streamline business operations. These professionals advise managers by discussing business solutions that drive greater profits and various ways to cut costs.

Market Research Analyst

Median Annual Salary: $68,230 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): +13% Job Description : Market research analysts assess and review current market trends to predict the potential profits of various products. These professionals collect and analyze data, including quantitative measures of demographics and qualitative consumer feedback, via interviews and focus groups.

Median Annual Salary: $80,840 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): +8% Job Description: Professors design coursework for college and university students. They typically focus on a particular subject matter, industry or discipline, such as economics or marketing. Professors may also have industry experience outside academia that informs their teaching. Learn more with our guide on how to become a professor .

Median Annual Salary: $113,940 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): +6% Job Description: Relying on data and macro-level market trends, economists analyze issues related to supplies, goods and services. Economists specialize in quantitative analysis and may collect their own data. They can also rely on secondary data to study large-scale market patterns. Research partnerships with external organizations, government agencies and think tanks are common in this role.

Chief Executives

Median Annual Salary: $189,520 Projected Growth Rate (2022–2032): -8% Job Description: Executive-level positions entail developing big-picture policies that help businesses remain profitable. C-level leaders in larger organizations are often involved in strategy and goal-setting. In smaller organizations, executives may also contribute to the hiring process and day-to-day logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Business Administration (FAQs)

Is a doctor of business administration the same as a ph.d..

No. A doctor of business administration (DBA) is a degree tailored to the needs of full-time business executives. A Ph.D. program is designed for individuals seeking careers as researchers and professors in academia.

Is a DBA better than an MBA?

Not necessarily. A DBA is a top-level business degree that builds on MBA degree coursework and applied experiences in the workplace. DBA programs are usually intended to be the next step for MBA students.

Can I earn a DBA without an MBA?

Yes. Most doctorate programs require a master’s degree but not necessarily an MBA. Students with an MBA, however, are prepared for the training and expertise that comes at the doctorate level.

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Ian (he/him) is a contributing writer and a communications professional. He holds a master’s degree in sociology, and currently, he a is a doctoral candidate completing his dissertation.

Harvard University DBA in General Business Administration and Management

How much does a doctorate in business administration from harvard cost, harvard graduate tuition and fees.

Does Harvard Offer an Online DBA in Business Administration?

Harvard doctorate student diversity for business administration, male-to-female ratio.

Women made up around 61.5% of the business administration students who took home a doctor’s degree in 2019-2020. This is higher than the nationwide number of 42.4%.

Racial-Ethnic Diversity

Racial-ethnic minority graduates* made up 15.4% of the business administration doctor’s degrees at Harvard in 2019-2020. This is lower than the nationwide number of 31%.

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DBA vs PhD: Which is the Best for Your Career?

Are you a business enthusiast who desires to advance your knowledge and expertise in the field of business administration? Well, pursuing higher education can be your game-changer. However, you may be stuck in a DBA vs PhD in business administration dilemma. Choosing between DBA and PhD in business administration is a daunting task that requires thorough research and analysis. In this blog post, we will highlight the core differences between the two programs to help you in your decision-making process.

DBA vs PhD 101

Although the DBA degree is becoming more common worldwide, it remains relatively unknown and unfamiliar in the United States. Additionally, there are far fewer DBA programs and graduates compared to business PhD programs. It’s worth noting that this wasn’t always true if we look at the past.

The PhD degree in business has been offered in the US since the early 1920s. The DBA degree, on the other hand, originated at Harvard Business School in 1953 and became the foremost business doctorate by 1960. Other American universities subsequently embraced the DBA, and by the early 1990s, it has become extensively adopted worldwide.

Although the DBA degree became initially popular, it was eventually replaced by the PhD in business at many institutions to prevent confusion and take advantage of the PhD’s more scholarly connotation. However, in more recent times, there has been a reversal of this trend and many respected research institutions are now offering both degrees in their business school.

DBA vs PhD: Common Threads

When comparing two degrees, it’s helpful to start by looking at the similarities. Both the doctoral degree and the business degree are terminal degrees in business, meaning that they represent the highest academic achievement in the field. They are both at a doctoral level.

Furthermore, top-tier research institutions offer both degree programs with a strong emphasis on research, providing an in-depth understanding of advanced research concepts and practices. This equips graduates with the ability to apply scientific research methods toward advanced business knowledge acquisition.

Both programs require a dissertation project or similar, near the end of the course. They also develop scientific communication skills relevant to business research for wider audiences. In the US, both degrees are recognized as equal by major research bodies, like the National Science Foundation and the US Department of Education , and similar recognition can be found around the world.

DBA vs PhD: The Curriculum

The DBA program focuses on the practical application of business theory. The courses in the DBA program incorporate real-life case studies, research-based practices, and process-oriented approaches to problem-solving.

The research focus in a DBA degree program is on applied research rather than theoretical. The goal of the applied researcher is to use academic theory to address and solve advanced business problems through scientific inquiry. The focus is on applying existing theory rather than creating new theory.

Generally, to begin this type of research, one identifies a specific business problem based on their personal business domain and experience. Next, the creation of a theoretical model of the problem facilitates a scientific investigation into its causes and potential solutions. These business problems are typically seen as pertinent and current by both scholars and practitioners.

On the other hand, the PhD in Business Administration program emphasizes research-based knowledge and skills required to become effective scholars in the field of business administration. The curriculum includes theoretical concepts, research methodologies, and statistical techniques for conducting empirical research.

The PhD program primarily emphasizes theoretical research with a focus on developing new theories and refining existing ones related to business and human behavior. This makes it a social science that aims to enhance our comprehension of human behavior and the impact of numerous factors on business-related matters.

As a requirement, the PhD candidate is to gain expertise and knowledge related to their chosen field of concentration, which can be one of the following: management, finance, marketing, information systems, and accounting.

Applicant Profiles

The PhD degree program’s goal is to train graduates for an academic career, with a focus on conducting theoretical research, teaching at colleges and universities, and enhancing their expertise and reputation as academic scholars on an international level.

Publishing relevant research contributions in academic journals and books is a key activity throughout the career of PhD graduates. Although some may become senior researchers in the government and corporate sectors, most PhD graduates stay in academia.

A DBA graduate has various career options. Usually, a DBA graduate is a talented and accomplished business professional, so many of them choose to work within their organizations and aspire to become influential decision-makers in their workplace and industry.

Sometimes, individuals who have completed a degree in DBA utilize the knowledge they acquired to become a consultant for different companies and industries that align with their expertise and background. Alternatively, some use their degree as a stepping stone to pursue a career in academia, such as being a guest lecturer, adjunct faculty, or tenured faculty member at a college or university. Academic institutions and students highly value the knowledge that successful practitioners bring to the research arena and classroom.

Campus-Based Vs. Online program

A traditional PhD program develops an individual as a scholar. It is uncommon for PhD programs to allow part-time enrollment and to take place completely online. Typically, students must complete for a limited number of spots and do not work outside the program. Some programs offer a stipend and waive tuition fees, but the student must focus solely on becoming a scholar and pursuing a research career in academia. The main objective takes priority over everything else. Based on the description above, achieving the highest business degree using this method is only possible for individuals who fully dedicate themselves to their training and career, sidelining all other life pursuits.

The DBA degree is for those who have the potential to succeed at a doctoral level, but are unable to pursue the extensive training and knowledge required for it due to commitments towards their career and family. The degree provides a chance for such individuals to engage in scholarly activities and accomplish their desired goals.

Flexibility

The DBA program delivery is flexible and accommodates your work and family commitments. You won’t need to spend all your time solely focused on scholarly pursuits. DBA degrees are typically delivered as blended programs, with hybrid elements of both online and on-campus classes. This allows students to benefit from the flexibility of online learning while also having the opportunity to develop relationships with faculty members and their peers through in-person instruction.

In addition, many DBA programs offer a variety of learning activities such as workshops, field trips, and industry visits that enable students to gain valuable professional experience. The mode of delivery for DBA degrees allows students to engage in research projects and scholarly activities while still being able to maintain their professional commitments. This makes them ideal for those who are looking for a degree program that offers an effective balance between academic learning and practical experience.

Time to Completion

The completion time for a DBA program is generally shorter than the PhD in Business Administration program. The average time for completing a DBA program is three years, while the average completion time for a PhD in Business Administration is six to 10 years.

The shorter completion time in the DBA program is due to the program’s focus on practical-oriented courses that aim at solving specific business problems relevant to the current world of business.

Dissertation Requirements

Dissertation requirements significantly differ between the DBA and PhD programs. DBA students are required to write a dissertation rooted in practical business problems that they aim to solve. The purpose of a DBA dissertation is to contribute to the current knowledge of business practices and bring relevant and innovative solutions to the industry. On the other hand, a Ph.D. dissertation requires original research that aims to contribute new theoretical knowledge to the field of Business Administration.

One important difference between the two degrees is the cost of education. PhD programs are usually fellowship-funded , which means the university covers the tuition fees and pays a stipend to the student. In exchange, the student works as a research or teaching assistant while pursuing their studies.

The DBA program works differently. Students pay for the costs of obtaining the degree, but they have the flexibility to manage their work and family obligations while studying. Both types of degrees are eligible for additional financial aid, and many students in either program use this financial support.

PhD vs DBA: Our Conclusion

In conclusion, having a full understanding of the DBA vs PhD in Business Administration dilemma will undoubtedly play an instrumental role in your decision-making process. If you have any further questions or need assistance picking the program that best aligns with your future career aspirations, seeking out professional support could be just what you need. Ultimately, both of these programs present great opportunities to enrich your knowledge and further develop your leadership and management skills.

If you’re ready for the next step, we invite you to explore our PhD Application Services . Here, you’ll discover our suite of enrollment resources to help maximize your chances of gaining acceptance into the program of your dreams. Remember – there are no limits when it comes to achieving whatever goals you set for yourself! So take that big leap today and never look back! Got questions? Sign up for a consultation , or send us your draft for an estimate. It’s FREE!

With a Master’s from McGill University and a Ph.D. from New York University, Dr. Philippe Barr is the founder of The Admit Lab . As a tenure-track professor, Dr. Barr spent a decade teaching and serving on several graduate admission committees at UNC-Chapel Hill before turning to full-time consulting. With more than seven years of experience as a graduate school admissions consultant, Dr. Barr has stewarded the candidate journey across multiple master’s and Ph.D. programs and helped hundreds of students get admitted to top-tier graduate programs all over the world .

Follow me on YouTube for tips and tricks on navigating the grad school application process and weekly live Q&A sessions!

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Coordinated JD/PhD Program

Harvard Law School and the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

The Coordinated JD/PhD Program is designed for students interested in completing interdisciplinary work at Harvard University and is founded on the belief that students’ legal studies and their arts and sciences graduate studies can be mutually enriched through this pursuit. Students completing the coordinated program receive a JD from Harvard Law School (HLS) and a PhD from the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences  (Harvard Griffin GSAS). It is expected that these students will be strong candidates for teaching posts at law schools and in arts and sciences programs, as well as for other positions in law and academia. Prospective students interested in the coordinated program may reach out to  HLS J.D. Admissions  and the  Harvard Griffin GSAS Office of Admissions  to learn more. Current and admitted students interested in the coordinated program are encouraged to contact  April Pettit , in the Office of Academic Affairs at HLS for questions about the JD program, or  Dan Volchok , Assistant Dean of Student Success at Harvard Griffin GSAS for questions about the PhD programs.

Prospective students must separately apply to and be admitted to both HLS and a Harvard Griffin GSAS PhD program in order to participate in the coordinated JD/PhD program.

• Students enrolled in HLS, but not yet admitted to Harvard Griffin GSAS, must apply to Harvard Griffin GSAS no later than the 2L year, meeting the Harvard Griffin GSAS application deadline for matriculation the following year.
• Students enrolled in Harvard Griffin GSAS, but not yet admitted to HLS, should apply to HLS no later than the G3 year, meeting the HLS application deadline for matriculation the following year.
• Please see below for details about participation in the coordinated program for Harvard Griffin GSAS students who apply and are admitted to HLS after the G3 year.

Once admitted to both schools, students must submit a proposed Plan of Study to the coordinated program no later than October 1 of the academic year following admission to both schools. Students should submit the Plan of Study to April Pettit in the Office of Academic Affairs at HLS.

Please note: Harvard Griffin GSAS students who apply to and are admitted to HLS after the G3 year at Harvard Griffin GSAS must then separately apply to the coordinated program. The application to the coordinated program should include (1) a statement detailing the way in which the student plans to integrate his or her legal studies with his or her graduate studies including how work done at HLS will inform the dissertation work and vice versa; and (2) a letter of support from the primary Harvard Griffin GSAS advisor; and (3) the Plan of Study.

The JD/PhD committee will review the applications to determine admission to the coordinated program.

Students will be registered in only one School during any given semester/term. Pursuant to ABA rules, students must  complete all requirements for the JD degree within seven years of the date they first enroll in HLS ; they may graduate from HLS before completing the PhD. Students must have satisfactorily completed at least 16 half courses in their Harvard Griffin GSAS department to receive the PhD. Students in the coordinated program will have two primary faculty advisors, one at HLS and one at Harvard Griffin GSAS, who will jointly advise students.

Students will be expected to complete the first-year program, three upper-level fall or spring semesters, and two winter terms at HLS, for a total of five fall and spring semesters and three winter terms. In lieu of the sixth HLS semester generally required of JD students, students in the coordinated program may take a semester at Harvard Griffin GSAS, completing courses or dissertation work pre-approved by HLS, and equivalent to at least 10 HLS credits. This Harvard Griffin GSAS semester may be taken only after a student has matriculated at HLS and completed their entire first year of study there. Students and their faculty advisors will determine the most appropriate sequencing for each student’s course of study, keeping in mind the HLS course, credit, and residency requirements for this program.

Course and Credit Requirements

First-year program.

The first year at HLS consists of (1) Civil Procedure, Constitutional Law, Contracts, Criminal Law, Legislation and Regulation, Property, and Torts; (2) First-year Legal Research and Writing; (3) January Experiential Term; and (4) a spring upper-level elective at HLS of a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 4 classroom credits.

Upper-Level Years

Credit and residency requirements.

Students must earn no fewer than 52 credits beyond the first year, including 36 HLS classroom credits. Classroom credits include those connected to courses, seminars and reading groups, but not writing or clinical credits. The 36 required classroom credits also include the required minimum of two credits to satisfy the Professional Responsibility Requirement and credits from the required winter terms (provided that the course chosen offers classroom credits). Of the remaining 16 required HLS credits, a maximum of ten are earned through courses or tutorials taken in Harvard Griffin GSAS and/or for dissertation writing (see below). Note that students must have their advisor’s approval before engaging in a semester of Harvard Griffin GSAS dissertation writing that is expected to count toward the HLS credit requirements . The remaining six required HLS credits may be earned in classroom, writing or clinical courses.

While at HLS, students must be enrolled in a minimum of ten total credits each semester in HLS or Harvard Griffin GSAS, with no fewer than eight of these being HLS classroom credits toward the requirement of 36 HLS classroom credits.

Winter Term Requirement

Students also must enroll in the HLS winter term two times during their upper-level years in the program. Each of the winter terms must follow a fall term enrollment or precede a spring term enrollment at HLS. Students may register for a course of two or three credits. JD/PhD students will be permitted to spend one of the winter terms in the HLS Winter Writing Program, provided they are engaged in written work for HLS credit according to the rules of that program.

Written Work Requirement

JD/PhD students must complete the JD Written Work Requirement. Students are permitted to satisfy the requirement with a portion of their dissertation, provided this work meets HLS standards for written work. However, any portion of the dissertation counted toward the JD Written Work Requirement cannot also be used as part of the 10 HLS-equivalent credits earned during a student’s Harvard Griffin GSAS semester. Further information about the J.D. Written Work Requirement and the Winter Term Writing Program is available from the HLS Registrar’s Office .

Pro Bono Requirement

JD/PhD students must complete the  HLS Pro Bono Requirement  of 50 hours of public service.

Residency Requirement

A minimum of two years of full-time study in residence is required for all PhD programs in the Harvard Griffin GSAS. During the period of registration at HLS, coordinated JD/PhD students will have “study-at-another-Harvard-school” status in Harvard Griffin GSAS.

Structure of Academic Work

Students will ordinarily be enrolled for at least four years (8 terms) in Harvard Griffin GSAS. They must complete at least 16 half courses to receive their PhD. Students may cross-register for a limited number of Harvard Griffin GSAS courses during their upper-level terms at HLS. Depending on the Harvard Griffin GSAS department, these courses may count toward the PhD. However, JD/PhD students may count a maximum of 10 credits from Harvard Griffin GSAS coursework or dissertation writing toward the JD. Therefore, students planning to spend a semester enrolled at Harvard Griffin GSAS taking courses or writing the dissertation for which they will earn 10 HLS credits may not also count cross-registered Harvard Griffin GSAS courses toward the JD.

General Examinations

In most departments, once having completed the required coursework, students must pass a general examination or other preliminary or qualifying examinations before undertaking independent research on a dissertation. Normally, when the nature of the field and previous preparation permit, students should pass these examinations by the end of the second year of full-time academic residence.

PhD Dissertation

The student’s dissertation prospectus must be approved by the department. A student who wishes to present as a dissertation a published article, series of articles, book or other document, or a manuscript that has been accepted for publication, must have the approval of the department concerned. In no case, however, may a dissertation be presented that has already been submitted toward another degree, either at Harvard or elsewhere. The Dissertation Acceptance Certificate must be signed by at least three readers approved by the student’s department, two of whom must be members of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS). FAS emeriti (including research professors) and faculty members from other schools at Harvard who hold appointments on GSAS degree committees are authorized to sign the Dissertation Acceptance Certificates as FAS members. GSAS strongly recommends that the chair of the dissertation committee be a member of FAS. The third reader may be a member of the HLS faculty.

Requirement of Satisfactory Status

Continuous registration, a satisfactory grade record, and evidence that satisfactory progress is being made toward the degree are required of all candidates for graduate degrees offered by FAS. All students in Harvard Griffin GSAS must be making satisfactory progress in order to be eligible for any type of financial aid and teaching. The following five provisions are the general definition of satisfactory progress during registration in Harvard Griffin GSAS:

• During the first two years of graduate study any student who has completed expected requirements is considered to be making satisfactory progress.
• In each of the first two years, a student must have achieved the minimum grade-point average required by the faculty, a B average. (see Harvard Griffin GSAS Policies: Grade and Examination Requirements ).
• By the end of the third year, a student must have passed general examinations or the departmental equivalent.
• By the end of the fourth year, a student must have obtained approval of a dissertation prospectus or its departmental equivalent.
• By the end of the fifth year and each subsequent year during which a student is allowed to register, they must have produced at least one acceptable chapter of the dissertation.

For more information about satisfactory progress, please see Harvard Griffin GSAS Policies .

Other Requirements

Ordinarily, programs will have a language requirement and an expectation of teaching. Students should consult with their Harvard Griffin GSAS departments for more information about these requirements.

There are a number of possible academic schedules for students pursuing both degrees. Three sequences are outlined below, but students may propose alternative sequences. In considering their courses of study, students should be aware that their financial aid packages might be affected at the school in which they defer enrollment.

Year 1: HLS Year 2: Harvard Griffin GSAS Year 3: Harvard Griffin GSAS Year 4: HLS Year 5: 1st term, HLS Year 5: 2nd term, Harvard Griffin GSAS (earning the equivalent of 10 HLS credits in dissertation work) Following year(s): Harvard Griffin GSAS until completion of dissertation

Year 1: Harvard Griffin GSAS Year 2: Harvard Griffin GSAS Year 3: HLS Year 4: Harvard Griffin GSAS Year 5: HLS Year 6: 1st term, HLS Year 6: 2nd term, Harvard Griffin GSAS (earning the equivalent of 10 HLS credits in dissertation work) Following year(s): Harvard Griffin GSAS until completion of dissertation

Year 1: HLS Year 2: HLS Year 3: Harvard Griffin GSAS Year 4: Harvard Griffin GSAS Year 5: 1st term, HLS Year 5: 2nd term, Harvard Griffin GSAS (earning the equivalent of 10 HLS credits in dissertation work) Following year(s): Harvard Griffin GSAS until completion of dissertation

Updated Plans of Study

By October 1 each year, current JD/PhD students should submit an updated Plan of Study to April Pettit, in the HLS Office of Academic Affairs.

Other Academic Information

Faculty advising.

Students in the program will have primary faculty advisors at both HLS and at Harvard Griffin GSAS. If possible, HLS faculty advisors should be selected before the completion of the 2L year. The HLS faculty advisor must sign off on any dissertation writing a student expects to use for JD credit. In some Harvard Griffin GSAS departments, the director of graduate studies serves as the faculty advisor during the first two years of study. Faculty advisors will supervise students’ academic work, advise students on their courses of study and on specific classes appropriate for their PhD work, and approve the courses of study for their students on an annual basis. If appropriate, the HLS advisor will be the third reader on the student’s dissertation committee, with at least two readers required to be members of FAS.

Leaving the JD/PhD Program

If a student fails to make adequate progress toward the PhD, the student’s faculty advisors will be permitted to withdraw the student from the program. In such cases, in order to receive the JD degree, a student will still need to meet the graduation and credit requirements for the JD degree.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Harvard law school.

Students must pay five semesters of full tuition. Students will be eligible for HLS financial aid for all semesters during which they pay tuition to HLS. For more information on Financial Aid, visit the Student Financial Services Financial Aid webpage .

Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

The minimum financial requirement for the PhD is at least four terms of full tuition followed by two years of reduced tuition and a facilities fee unless the degree is completed in less than four years. The financial aid awarded upon admission to the PhD program is available during those terms in which the student is enrolled in Harvard Griffin GSAS. Students should refer to their notice of financial support provided by their department upon admission to Harvard Griffin GSAS. Students should consult with their GSAS departments for more information.

Administrative Information

The HLS Registrar’s Office, the FAS Registrar’s Office, the GSAS Assistant Dean of Student Success, the HLS Associate Director of Academic Affairs, and the appropriate financial aid officers, will coordinate on students’ registration status and updated plans of study.

Housing and Student Life

GSAS and HLS will work together to ensure that the student services offered by both Schools are available to JD/PhD students during all their years in the Coordinated Program, including career and counseling offices, financial aid offices, student centers, and alumni offices. Students in the coordinated program will have email accounts at both schools throughout the program. Disability services and visa requirements will be coordinated on a case-by-case basis by the HLS Dean of Students and Registrar and by the Harvard Griffin GSAS Assistant Dean for Student Success. Students may apply for housing through either School for the years in which they are enrolled for at least one semester/term at both Schools. In all other years, students must apply for housing to the School in which they are enrolled.

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DBA vs. PhD: What’s the Difference?

You’ve tackled your undergraduate business degree, and now you’re feeling ready to take your business education one step further. You might be wondering, “Where do I even begin?” If this sounds like you, you’ve come to the right place. When it comes to upper-level business degrees, there are a wide variety of options. Two popular options are the Doctor of Business Administration, or DBA, and the Doctor of Philosophy, or PhD. Both options can be an excellent fit for students who are eager to dive even deeper into the world of academia. In this article, you’ll get a better understanding of the difference between the two degrees and gain some insight as to which degree program is the best fit for you.

What Is a DBA?

A Doctor of Business Administration, or DBA degree, is considered a “terminal degree.” This designation simply means that the degree is the highest level of education one can receive in the business world. These degrees are centered around business education with a major emphasis on management. DBA programs often entail a research component that focuses on real-life business problems. Throughout their studies, DBA students learn to apply various theories in solving real issues faced by today’s businesses. This degree is primarily geared toward individuals who currently hold a master’s degree in business or another closely related subject.

What Is a PhD?

PhD programs are another excellent choice for those wishing to further their education. This is also considered a “terminal degree,” and it is the highest-level research degree that one can obtain. These programs involve rigorous research and extensive study. While you’re likely interested in a PhD degree in the business field, nearly any subject can provide this research-based degree, from science, to humanities, to everything in between. While DBA programs are typically intended for students who hold a master’s degree, PhD programs welcome students after completing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related discipline. They are the ideal choice for anyone who might be interested in carrying out research or teaching in an academic institution.

Coursework and Duration: Comparing the Curriculum

While both DBA programs and PhD programs give students a deep understanding of the theories that drive the world around us, they do so in different ways. In a Doctorate of Business Administration program, you’ll focus exclusively on business and management from a practical lens. Application of theory is a major focus, and coursework often provides students with opportunities to put their knowledge into practice by solving real-world business problems. Alternatively, PhD programs are offered in just about any subject one can imagine. They take a more theoretical approach with their curricula, teaching students to understand the “why” and “how” behind both business problems and their solutions.

The typical timeline of these graduate programs differs as well. Since DBA programs are intended for people who already have both a master’s degree and significant work experience, they tend to take less time to complete. Many DBA programs are offered on a part-time schedule, and students can expect to complete their Doctorate of Business Administration in about two to four years. While PhD programs don’t always require as much experience prior to enrolling, they tend to require more time to complete. These research-intense programs usually follow a full-time course schedule with an average completion time that ranges from three to five years.

Practical Experience vs. Thesis Research

The major difference between a DBA education and a PhD education can be summed up as practical vs. theoretical. Students entering into a DBA program typically come with a master’s degree in hand and multiple years of relevant work experience under their belt. As such, DBA programs are designed to expand upon their students’ wealth of prior knowledge and experience. These programs teach students to understand relevant theories and principles of business management, but more importantly, they teach students to apply those theories and principles. DBA programs equip students to bring their education and experience to the table when solving real-world problems.

While DBA students focus on using existing knowledge to solve problems, students in PhD programs work to add new knowledge to the business world. Instead of researching the application of existing theories and principles, PhD students are expected to work on original research, unearthing and exploring new ideas. Thus, PhD programs take a much more theoretical approach rather than a practical one. To put their newly gained insights on display, PhD candidates are usually required to complete a dissertation. Through these lengthy research projects, students demonstrate their knowledge, expand upon their ideas, and showcase their experience.

Career Outcomes of a DBA vs. a PhD in Business Administration

Following completion of their degree, DBA and PhD graduates typically take two different paths when it comes to employment. Much like an MBA, a Doctor of Business Administration prepares students for jobs in both the private and public sector. DBA candidates often go on to work in senior management roles or consulting. Some even choose to open their own businesses. Their practical, hands-on approach ensures that DBA programs leave their graduates well-equipped for these roles.

On the other hand, PhD candidates typically stick to the world of academia following their graduation. They often find work with universities as professors and can even go on to be program directors. Some graduates may also opt to continue expanding upon their research while they teach, sharing their research methods with the next generation of PhD students.

However, as with any degree, the job you’ll find afterward depends on a number of different factors. Your prior work experience and unique strengths gained from both work and the classroom play a big part in determining where you’ll take your talents. Just like your interests and passions will likely guide your choice between DBA and PhD programs, they’ll also guide your job search. External factors do play a role as well. The current job market will decide what specific jobs are available at one time or another, and demand for your specific skill set can determine how well you fit the profile of those available jobs.

DBA or PhD: Which Is Right for You?

Deciding to further your education with a doctorate degree is a huge decision in and of itself. Having to choose between a Doctor of Business Administration and a Doctor of Philosophy might be an even more challenging decision. Each of these programs is considered a “terminal degree,” offering students the highest level of education possible in the field. They provide candidates with advanced training and preparation for high-ranking roles. Whether you opt for a DBA or a PhD program, you’ll be opening doors to a wide range of career opportunities.

To ensure that you make the right choice between the two degrees, you’ll want to take time to think about your career goals. Consider where you are now as well as what you want your career to look like in 5, 10, even 2o years. Do you hope to hold a title as a C-suite executive of a major corporation, calling the shots and leading the teams around you? Or do you hope to be in the classroom, teaching the next generation of business professionals about both new and existing theories in the business industry?

Be sure to spend some significant time weighing out these options, including any accreditation requirements. Once you feel confident in the goals you’ve set, look for programs that are in alignment with the things that are most important to you. Check out the academic career resources and coursework of each program you’re interested in. Give yourself the time and space to carefully consider each of these factors prior to making a decision.

Final Thoughts

Getting a doctorate degree can be an excellent way to take your career to the next level . No matter whether you opt for a DBA or a PhD, these terminal business degrees can make your application stand out among the rest and open doors to previously unattainable job opportunities. DBA programs are a perfect fit for people looking to grow their base of practical knowledge in the field. They prepare graduates to work in upper-level leadership roles within the business environment, solving real problems that companies face on a day-to-day basis. Alternatively, PhD programs are the ideal choice for anyone with an interest in the principles and theories that guide business decisions and outcomes. These programs equip graduates to take on roles in the world of academia, such as research and teaching.

However, before you take the jump into your DBA or PhD, be sure to take time to thoughtfully consider your decision. Use your career goals as a guide, and take the time to research your options thoroughly. Seek out advice from peers in the field, and learn from the stories of others making an impact in the business world, like one Crummer Executive MBA student who has a strong passion for both business and academia.

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Admissions & Financial Support

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Admissions & Financial Support

Interested in applying to one of our fully funded PhD Programs? Before you begin, learn more about our application requirements. Please note that applicants are only required to possess a bachelors degree. Undergraduate applicants in their senior year are welcome to apply.

Required Application Materials

• Completed online application form
• Statement of Purpose
• Personal Statement
• Transcripts for all college/university degrees and courses Self-reported transcripts are accepted for both all programs at the application stage. Applicants must upload copies of his/her transcripts to the online application system. Hard copy transcripts will only be required if admitted to a program, prior to enrollment.
• Current GRE or GMAT scores (see details below)
• TOEFL or IELTS scores (non-native English speakers see details below)
• Three letters of recommendation (at least one from an academic source). Recommendation letters must be submitted online through the online application system. Hard copy recommendation letters will not be accepted.
• $105 application fee via credit card
• Optional writing sample (no more than 10 pages)

GRE & GMAT

All applicants are required to take either the General Test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT). Submitted test scores are valid for no longer than five years. If you are applying for admission for Fall 2025, we will accept at-home versions of the GRE. You may submit scores from tests taken no earlier than January 5, 2020. There is no minimum test score requirement, and admissions committee does not have a preference in tests. It may be helpful to note that other programs may have a preference between the GRE and the GMAT, so be sure to investigate this.

We accept both valid GMAT 10th Edition scores and scores from the new GMAT Focus exams. As writing is an essential component of the PhD program, all students must submit an official writing assessment. As the GMAT Focus lacks a writing section, HBS will contact you at the interview stage about taking the separate GMAC Business Writing Assessment if you submit a GMAT Focus score.

• Institution Codes for PhD Programs
• GMAT: HRL-X8-30

A department code is not required for score submission.

International Applications

Adequate command of spoken and written English is required for admission. Applicants whose native language is other than English and who do not hold a Bachelor degree or its equivalent from an institution at which English is the language of instruction must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.

Submitted scores are valid for no longer than two years. If you are applying for admission for Fall 2025, we will accept at-home versions of the TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic. You may submit scores from tests taken no earlier than January 5, 2023. The committee prefers scores of at least 100 on the TOEFL internet-based test and at least 7.5 on the IELTS test. Applicants are strongly encouraged to choose the TOEFL internet-based test when possible.

Institution Codes for Toefl score reports PhD programs: 3451

Instructions for submitting IELTS score reports Designate Harvard University, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences as a recipient of your test results. Our address, for the record only, to identify us in the IELTS system, is 1350 Massachusetts Ave. Smith Campus Center 350, Cambridge, MA 02138. Paper test report forms will not be accepted at this address.

Accomodations for natural disasters or other extenuating circumstances

Reapplicants.

Applicants who applied last year are considered reapplicants. Those reapplying must submit a completely new application. The new application must include all required documents to be provided by the applicant - we will not re-use material previously submitted. These materials include an updated statement of purpose, transcripts, test score reports, updated letters of recommendation, the application fee, and any other supporting materials

Please note, Harvard University will accept no more than three applications from any one individual over the course of their lifetime. If your 2025 application is incomplete and you are denied admission, GSAS will not count it toward our lifetime limit of three total applications that an individual may submit due to the global pandemic.

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