GGU Online DBA Doctorate Degree
(DBA Degree Online from Golden Gate University)
Home >> Online DBA form GGU
The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from Golden Gate University (GGU) is a 3 year (36-month) online doctoral degree program designed for working professionals seeking to advance their expertise in business leadership, strategy, and research. Based in the heart of San Francisco’s financial and tech district, GGU offers a U.S. accredited online DBA doctorate program designed to meet the needs of global professionals without disrupting their careers.
- DURATION: 2 to 3 years (24 to 36 months) with Flexible timelines
- Domain: Doctorate (Get Dr.'s Title)
- Study Mode: Fully online
- Fees Range: INR 10,65,000*
- EMI Options: You’ll have access to budget-friendly payment plans
- Accreditation: WASC Accreditation, AACSB & WES
- Last date of admission: OnGoing
This information is provided for audience reference only. Please visit the https://ggu.edu/ website for the most accurate and updated details. Video Source: @UpGrad
Online DBA Eligibility
- Master’s Degree (or Equivalent)
- Bachelor’s Degree with 3+ Years of Work Experience
Online DBA Degree Salary Packages
During Online DBA Doctorate Program
Industry Mentors
- Expert Guidance: Mentors & TAs + personalized feedback
- Dedicated Support: 24/7 via email & web chat
Q&A Forum
- Q&A Forum: Peers & experts, always a click away. Get your doubts squashed in real-time!
- Expert-verified answers for quality you can trust
Expert Feedback
- Personalized feedback on assignments & projects
- Live sessions to unravel complex concepts like a pro!
Overview Doctor of Business Administration from GGU
The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from Golden Gate University (GGU), San Francisco is a 3-year online doctoral program crafted for working professionals ready to advance their business expertise, leadership impact, and strategic thinking. This is a professional doctorate degree awarded by GGU, a nonprofit university with over 120 years of academic excellence, located in the heart of one of the world’s leading innovation hubs, San Francisco. GGU’s DBA is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and designed to meet the evolving demands of executives, consultants, and academic leaders through a curriculum that blends theory, practical application, and research.
– Earn a U.S. Accredited Doctorate Degree from Golden Gate University, San Francisco
– Leadership-Focused Curriculum aligned with industry needs
– Accelerated Learning Option: Complete the program in as little as 2 years
– Expert Mentorship: Learn from senior faculty including C-suite leaders, consultants, and former government officials
– Three-Tiered Learning Outcome: Foundation courses, research methods, and a doctoral dissertation
– Live + Self-Paced Learning: Access recorded lectures, live sessions, and peer discussions anytime, anywhere
Build the Right Skills & Shape Your Future from Our Unbiased Career Counselling. Choose the right path and Get 100 % Unbiased Career Advice.
Get Expert Help & More Information
GGU Online DBA Doctorate Duration & Eligibility
Eligibility (Bachelor’s Degree with 5+ Years of Experience or Master’s Degree): To be eligible for admission into the Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) program at Golden Gate University (GGU), San Francisco, applicants must hold either a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 55% marks and five years of relevant work experience or a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in business, management, or a related field. This flexible admission pathway is designed to accommodate experienced professionals aiming to advance in executive leadership, consulting, or academic careers.
Duration (3 Years): The duration of the DBA program at Golden Gate University (GGU) is 36 months (3 years). This online DBA program is structured to support working professionals by offering a flexible learning model. GGU’s DBA curriculum emphasizes applied research, advanced management theory, and leadership in global business contexts, enabling students to generate practical, impactful insights for real-world business challenges. Managers & Leaders Are Also Looking For;
| Online DBA Doctorate Degree form SSBM | Online DBA Doctorate Degree form Rushford Business School |
| Online DBA Doctorate Degree form ESGCI |
Ranking & Approvals
AACSB Member
signifies a business school that has met the rigorous standards set by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, a global organization known for its business education accreditation.
WASC Accredited
GGU is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), which also accredits top universities such as Stanford and UC Berkeley, ensuring high educational standards.
WES Recognized
Degrees are recognized by World Education Services (WES), ensuring global recognition of qualifications and simplifying academic and career opportunities across over 100 countries.
Why is the online DBA program the top choice of Business Leaders over PhD?
Program Objective
Online DBA Doctorate – A professional online doctorate for business leaders & executives to apply research in solving real-world business challenges.
PhD – A traditional PhD focused on generating new knowledge through theoretical research and scholarly work.
Key Areas & Research Type
Online DBA Doctorate – Practice & Applied research, directly addressing real-world business issues.
PhD – Theoretical research, focusing on conceptual frameworks, models, and methodologies.
Career Opportunity
Online DBA Doctorate – C-suite roles (CEO, CFO, COO, etc.), Senior business consultant, Corporate strategist, Business school instructor, Policymaker & industry expert
PhD – University professor, Academic researcher, Think tank analyst, Policy consultant, Business school faculty & author
Duration
Online DBA Doctorate – 3-5 years (usually part-time to accommodate working professionals.
PhD – 5-8 years (typically full-time due to research and teaching responsibilities).
Program Mode
Online DBA Doctorate – Highly flexible (online, hybrid, or in-person options)
PhD – Mostly in-person, with a few universities offering hybrid or online PhD options.
Dissertation Type
Online DBA Doctorate – Dissertation Type – Applied research project, focusing on solving a real business problem with practical implications.
PhD – Theoretical dissertation, contributing new academic knowledge to the field.
GGU Online DBA Course Fees structure
Golden Gate University (GGU), San Francisco, offers a prestigious and accredited online Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) program designed for working professionals worldwide. Known for its commitment to accessibility and academic excellence, GGU delivers its online DBA program through a flexible and cost-effective structure. The program offers scholarships of up to 70%, significantly reducing tuition costs and making it a competitive option for candidates seeking a high-quality U.S. doctoral degree. With its flexible payment plans and substantial financial aid opportunities, GGU ensures that professionals from diverse geographic and career backgrounds can pursue advanced academic and leadership development without financial barriers. (Students Also Ask | Online DBA Fees Structure & Duration)
|
Course Fee (Without Immersion) |
Course Fee (With Immersion) |
|
– Starting at – INR 25,500/month – Totally – INR 10,65,000* (No taxes applicable) – No-cost EMI available |
– Starting at – INR 29,250/month – Totally- INR 12,15,000* (No taxes applicable) – 12 months no cost EMI available for each installment |
Top Online DBA Institutions Fees Comparison
| Top Universities | Online DBA Course Fees (Without Immersion) |
| ESGCI, Paris (ACBSP and IACBE Member) | Totally INR 8,14,000*/- (36 Months) |
| Swiss School of Business and Management (ACBSP, CHEA, BAC accredited) | Totally INR 7,50,000*/- (36 Months) |
| Edgewood College (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) & Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)) | Totally INR 8,75,000*/- (24 Months) |
| Golden Gate University (AACSB, WASC, WES) | Totally INR 10,65,000*/- (36 Months) |
| Rushford Business School (EduQua Certified, ACBSP, and BGA Member) | Totally INR 8,12,500*/- (36 Months) |
Earn the Prestigious DBA Degree from GGU
GGU’s vast global network of over 70,000 alumni, including entrepreneurs, C-suite executives, and public sector leaders. With concentrations available in areas like Finance, Leadership, Business Analytics, and Marketing, the GGU DBA empowers you to align your academic journey with your career goals.
Sample Degree of GGU DBA Program
Career Outcomes a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree can significantly enhance your career prospects, teaching you with the knowledge and credentials to take on senior roles across diverse industries. Below are several promising career options available to DBA graduates.
Expected Yearly Salary Range (INDIA)
– Chief Executive Officer (CEO): INR 9L to INR 41.7L
– Chief Financial Officer (CFO): INR 20L to INR 75L
– Chief Operating Officer (COO): INR 19.5L to INR 59L
– Management Consultant: INR 16.1L to INR 29L
– Human Resources Director: INR 12L to INR 50L
Expected Yearly Salary Range (USA)
– Chief Executive Officer (CEO): USD 310k to USD 579k
– Chief Financial Officer (CFO): USD 248k to USD 453k
– Chief Operating Officer (COO): USD 240k to USD 448k
– Management Consultant: USD 95k to USD 2L
– Human Resources Director: USD 127k to USD 231k
GGU Online DBA Curriculum/Syllabus
Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) program at GGU is structured to teach professionals with advanced research capabilities and strategic leadership insight. The core curriculum integrates foundational business theory, qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, and a concentration area of the student’s choice—such as Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, or Leadership. With a strong emphasis on applied learning and scholarly rigor, the GGU DBA program empowers students to address complex business challenges and drive meaningful impact within their industries.
GGU Online DBA Course Curriculum
In GGU’s online DBA doctorate program, you’ll build deep knowledge in business theory, critical analysis, and applied research methods while tackling strategic challenges relevant to today’s dynamic business environment. Once you enrolled in a DBA doctoral degree, you will engage with world-class faculty—many of whom are active industry leaders and benefit from personalized mentorship, live interactive sessions, and peer collaboration across borders.
You will also achieve a high-impact education from a university with over 120 years of legacy, recognized by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and ranked as the #1 university for working professionals in the U.S., all while studying flexibly, at your pace, from anywhere in the world.
What will you learn?
Doctoral Writing and Research Methods
|
DBA 800: Foundation |
Topics Covered |
|
Doctoral Writing and Research Methods |
|
Quantitative Research Methods
|
DBA 801: Foundation |
Topics Covered |
|
Quantitative Research Methods |
|
Qualitative Research Methods
|
DBA 802: Foundation |
Topics Covered |
|
Qualitative Research Methods |
|
Corporate Finance
|
DBA 820: Concentration |
Topics Covered |
|
Corporate Finance |
|
Financial Theory and Applications
|
DBA 821: Concentration |
Topics Covered |
|
Financial Theory and Applications |
|
International Finance
|
DBA 822: Concentration |
Topics Covered |
|
International Finance |
|
Data as an Asset
|
DBA 850: Concentration |
Topics Covered |
|
Data as an Asset |
|
Operational Performance Management
|
DBA 851: Concentration |
Topics Covered |
|
Operational Performance Management |
|
Application of AI in Solving Business Problems
|
DBA 852: Concentration |
Topics Covered |
|
Application of AI in Solving Business Problems |
|
Marketing Management
|
DBA 870: Concentration |
Topics Covered |
|
Marketing Management |
|
Consumer Behavior
|
DBA 871: Concentration |
Topics Covered |
|
Consumer Behavior |
|
Digital Marketing and New Media
|
DBA 872: Concentration |
Topics Covered |
|
Digital Marketing and New Media |
|
Leadership Theory, Research, and Application
|
DBA 880: Concentration |
Topics Covered |
|
Leadership Theory, Research, and Application |
|
Leadership Complex Change
|
DBA 881: Concentration |
Topics Covered |
|
Leadership Complex Change |
|
Strategic Leadership
|
DBA 882: Concentration |
Topics Covered |
|
Strategic Leadership |
|
Transform Your Leadership Career with This Online DBA from Golden Gate University
Optional San Francisco Campus Immersion
No GMAT/GRE - Your Experience Matters Most
Customize Your DBA Degree with 5 Specialized Concentrations
Earn a Doctorate from a Premier US University
Receive Personalized 1:1 Research Mentorship
AACSB, WASC & WES Reconized
GGU Online DBA Specialization/Area of Interest
Choose from In-Demand specializations such as Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, Leadership, or design your own focus area to align with your professional goals. The Golden Gate University (GGU) Online Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) program offers a rigorous academic framework combined with real-world relevance. Whether you’re aiming to accelerate your executive career, transition into academia, or become a thought leader in your field, GGU provides the flexibility and expertise to help you realize your ambitions with confidence and credibility.
– Corporate Finance
– Financial Theory and Applications
– International Finance
– Data as an Asset
– Marketing Management
– Consumer Behavior
– Operational Performance Management
– Application of AI in Solving Business Problems
– Digital Marketing and New Media
– Leadership Theory, Research, and Application
– Leadership Complex Change
– Strategic Leadership
GGU Online DBA Degree Admission Process (How to Apply?)
To apply for the Golden Gate University (GGU) Online Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) program, candidates must possess either a Master’s Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree with a minimum of 55% marks and 5 years of relevant work experience. The application process is fully online and includes submitting academic transcripts, a professional resume, and a statement of purpose. Managers & Leaders Are Also Looking For;
| PhD for Working Professionals | Part Time PhD Programs |
GGU Online DBA Course Curriculum
The last date to apply for the GGU Online Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) program is expected to be 31st July, 2025. Admissions are currently open for the year 2025. To apply for the GGU Online DBA program, follow the steps below:
How To Apply?
Check Eligibility
The eligibility of GGU Online DBA course should be a Master’s Degree (or equivalent) or a Bachelor’s Degree with 3+ years of relevant work experience.
Submit Application
Once you eligible for the program then you need to complete and submit your application to apply for the Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) program offered by GGU.
Receive Offer Letter
Upon submitting the application, you will receive an offer letter if you are shortlisted.
Reserve Your Seat
Reserve your program spot by paying the block amount of INR 44,999/- and start your course.
Why Choose GGU Online DBA Doctorate Degree
1) Globally Respected U.S. Institution: Golden Gate University (GGU) is a nonprofit university founded in 1901 and located in San Francisco, the global hub of innovation and business. Ranked #1 for working professionals by Washington Monthly, GGU is known for combining academic rigor with real-world relevance….
READ MORE
2)U.S. Accreditation and Academic Recognition: The DBA program is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)—the same body that accredits institutions like Stanford and UC Berkeley. GGU is consistently ranked among the Top 10% of U.S. colleges by CollegeFactual.
3) Designed for Busy Professionals: With a flexible 36-month online format, the GGU DBA is built for working professionals. The program lets you study at your own pace through a blend of recorded lectures, live sessions, and interactive tools, so you can grow academically without stepping away from your career.
4)Distinguished Faculty and 1:1 Mentorship: Learn from renowned faculty and industry leaders, including former senior government officials, corporate executives, and top researchers. Receive personalized thesis supervision and continuous academic support throughout your journey.
5)Career-Driven Curriculum + Immersion Experience: The program delivers real-world business skills, covering leadership, analytics, and strategy. You’ll also get access to on-campus immersion opportunities in San Francisco, along with global networking and career support from GGU’s 70,000+ alumni network.
Worldwide Faculty Credentials
Dr. Francisco Oliva
Doctorate | Industry Expert | Already Received A Doctoral Degree | June 2022
👉Title: The Role of Talent Management on Internal Succession Planning for Higher Education People Managers: An Interpretative Phenomenological Study The Role of Talent Management on Internal Succession Planning for Higher Education People Managers: An Interpret 👉Nature of thesis research: Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Dr. Hahn N. Chou
Doctorate | Industry Expert | Already Received A Doctoral Degree | October 2022
👉Title: Investigating conflicting perspectives at a software multinational concerning its efforts to produce culturally and linguistically appropriate web content for its customers around the globe. 👉Nature of thesis research: Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
READ MORE
Dr. Hahn N. Chou
Doctorate | Industry Expert | Already Received A Doctoral Degree | August 2020
👉Title: How does an individual's culture trigger barriers of communication in a diverse environment? The case of a European Enforcement Network; An Action Research Inquiry. 👉Nature of thesis research: Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Dr. Hahn N. Chou
Doctorate | Industry Expert | Already Received A Doctoral Degree | November 2021
👉Title: Exploring the issues behind centralised chronic medicine distribution and dispensing (CCMDD) program failure to provide access to chronic medicines in eThekwini, South Africa👉Nature of thesis research: Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Worldwide Faculty & Fellows
DBA Student Research Guide: Dissertations
Article Source & Latest Global Trends in Doctoral Education!
Stay ahead in your academic journey by exploring cutting-edge insights and research on how doctoral education is evolving worldwide. From the rise of professional doctorates to flexible learning formats and global collaboration, discover the key trends shaping the future of advanced education—sourced from reputable academic and industry publications….
READ MORE
1) Financial Express. What’s a DBA, and do you need to do it? (Reference 1)
2) GGU Official (Reference 2)
3) GGU + UpGrad Brochure (Reference 3)
Disclaimer: DoctoratePath does not itself award academic credits. All credits are granted, recognized, or transferred solely at the discretion of the university or institution offering the degree or diploma. We recommend that learners carefully evaluate the program’s alignment with their academic, professional, and career goals before enrolling. Unless explicitly stated, DoctoratePath does not guarantee credit recognition or equivalency. Outcomes may vary depending on individual experience, qualifications, and job search efforts. The data and statistics presented are based on historical information and may vary across individuals. Past outcomes are not indicative of future results, and personal performance depends on several factors including effort, background, and market conditions.
Programs delivered in collaboration with foreign universities are accredited in their respective countries. However, they may not be recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) in India. Learners are advised to review the recognition status based on their intended use of the qualification.
Are you ready to take the next step in your career ?
FAQs About GGU Online DBA Doctorate Degree
What is the duration of the GGU DBA program?
The duration of GGU DBA program is designed to be completed in 36 months (3 years), offering a flexible schedule to accommodate working professionals.
What are the eligibility requirements of GGU DBA programs?
The eligibility of GGU’s online DBA course eligibility are, applicants must have either: A Master’s degree, or A Bachelor’s degree with minimum 50% marks & at least 5 years of relevant professional work experience.
Is the GGU DBA program accredited?
Yes. GGU is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), the same body that accredits institutions like Stanford and UC Berkeley.
What is the structure of the GGU DBA curriculum?
The curriculum of GGU’s DBA programs includes: Foundational courses, Training in qualitative and quantitative research methods, A dissertation based on original applied research & A chosen specialization such as Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, Leadership & Strategy, or a general track.
Can I pursue this GGU DBA online program while working full-time?
Absolutely. GGU online DBA program is tailored for working professionals and offers maximum flexibility with online classes, asynchronous learning, and optional in-person immersion experiences.
What are the available specializations in GGU's DBA program?
GGU’s DBA program’s specialization are: Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, Leadership & Strategy and General Management.
How much does the program cost of Golden Gate University's online DBA program?
The fee for the DBA program at GGU varies based on the current offerings and available payment plans. Flexible EMI options and No-Cost EMI are also available. For the latest fee structure are total INR 10,65,000* (No taxes applicable).
Is financial aid or scholarship available?
Yes. GGU offers scholarships through a $100 million fund, with up to 70% tuition reduction available for eligible students.
Is there an option to attend on-campus sessions for GGU DBA program?
Yes. GGU offers optional immersion programs in San Francisco twice annually, where students can network with peers, faculty, and industry leaders.
What kind of dissertation is required for GGU's DBA program?
Students are expected to produce an original applied research dissertation on a topic of strategic importance to their professional field. The dissertation demonstrates the student’s ability to integrate theory and practice to solve real-world business challenges.
Is this the same degree awarded to on-campus students?
Yes. Students in the online DBA program receive the same U.S. degree as those who attend GGU on campus in San Francisco.
What are the total credit requirements for GGU DBA program?
The GGU DBA program comprises 56 credits, including: 12 foundation credits, 12 concentration credits, Research methodology courses & Dissertation work (32 credits).
How flexible is the GGU DBA program format?
GGU DBA program is designed for maximum flexibility with asynchronous content, live sessions, and optional immersion. This allows students to manage their academic commitments alongside full-time work.
What is the language of instruction for GGU DBA course?
The entire GGU DBA degree course is delivered in English.
What kind of peer network will I join?
You will join a global community of professionals from over 48 countries, along with access to GGU’s 70,000+ alumni network, which includes CEOs, entrepreneurs, legal experts, and public leaders.
Are there on-campus requirements for GGU DBA degree course?
No, the program is entirely online. However, students can choose to attend optional immersion sessions on the San Francisco campus.
Is GGU DBA program suitable for international students?
Yes. The online delivery and global accessibility make it ideal for international students. Digital learning and scholarship options support accessibility worldwide.
Is a DBA equal to a PhD?
A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and a PhD in Business are both terminal degrees. However, a DBA is more practice-oriented, designed for senior professionals seeking to apply research directly to business challenges. A PhD is more theory-focused, often leading to academic or research-intensive careers.
What is Golden Gate University ranked for DBA?
GGU has been ranked #1 in the U.S. for working professionals by Washington Monthly and is consistently listed among the Top 10% of U.S. universities by College Factual (2022). It is also recognized for having one of the best online DBA programs due to its flexibility and industry relevance.
Is a DBA degree from Golden Gate University valid in India?
Yes. The DBA degree from GGU is awarded by a regionally accredited U.S. university (WASC), making it globally recognized and valid in India. It is well-suited for professionals aiming for leadership roles or academic positions in India and abroad.
What are student reviews of the Golden Gate University DBA program?
Students commend the GGU DBA for its flexibility, practical focus, expert faculty, and international peer network. The program is especially praised for balancing rigor and real-world application, making it ideal for working professionals.
Does the GGU DBA cover Generative AI?
Yes. As part of the Business Analytics and Emerging Technologies concentration, the curriculum includes topics related to Artificial Intelligence, including Generative AI applications in solving business problems.
What does the Golden Gate University DBA in Emerging Technologies include?
The Emerging Technologies focus within the DBA explores innovations like AI, data science, digital transformation, and technology-led business models, preparing students to lead change in tech-driven industries.