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Doctor of Business Administration
Emphasis in AI and Digital Transformation Strategy:General
The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program is designed to prepare advanced business leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, strategists, consultants, and global professionals who can lead organizations through innovation, digital transformation, sustainable growth, and strategic leadership in a rapidly evolving global economy.
PURPOSE
The Doctor of Business Administration program is grounded in an innovation-driven, leadership-centered, and globally engaged philosophy of business education. The program emphasizes strategic thinking, ethical leadership, interdisciplinary problem-solving, digital transformation, sustainability, entrepreneurial innovation, and practical application of advanced business knowledge. The program seeks to cultivate visionary leaders capable of integrating research, technology, and global business strategies for organizational excellence and societal impact.
Philosophy
The Doctor of Business Administration program is grounded in an innovation-driven, leadership-centered, and globally engaged philosophy of business education. The program emphasizes strategic thinking, ethical leadership, interdisciplinary problem-solving, digital transformation, sustainability, entrepreneurial innovation, and practical application of advanced business knowledge. The program seeks to cultivate visionary leaders capable of integrating research, technology, and global business strategies for organizational excellence and societal impact.
Emphases Competencies
The Doctor of Business Administration program develops advanced competencies in Strategic Leadership and Executive Management, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation, Global Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Sustainability and Crisis Management, Aviation Systems and Strategic Operations, Global Maestro Human Management, Real Estate Investment and Auction Management, Health Care Management, Organizational Change and Innovation, International Business Strategy, Data Analytics and Business Intelligence, Financial and Resource Management, and Applied Business Research. Strategic Business Leadership and Market Innovation
OBJECTIVES
Upon completing this degree, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of business theories, strategic management practices, and organizational leadership necessary to lead effectively in dynamic, technology-driven, and globally competitive business environments.
- Apply executive leadership, innovation management, digital transformation strategies, and data-driven decision-making skills to solve complex organizational challenges, improve operational performance, and promote sustainable growth.
- Conduct applied business research utilizing analytical, quantitative, and qualitative methodologies to generate strategic insights, support organizational decision-making, and contribute to professional business practice and industry advancement.
- Demonstrate ethical leadership, global business competence, and cross-cultural management skills by integrating social responsibility, sustainability, and international perspectives into organizational strategy and professional practice.
- Integrate interdisciplinary business competencies in entrepreneurship, financial management, organizational innovation, crisis management, and emerging technologies to develop transformative solutions for evolving global markets and industries.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Applicants seeking admission to a doctoral degree program must submit the following:
- Completed Application for Admission
- $100.00 non-refundable application fee
- A brief autobiographical statement
- Official Transcript Verifying Completion of an Appropriate Master’s Degree
- Minimum GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 Scale (or equivalent)
- Minimum of Three Years of Significant Professional Experience Following the Master’s Degree
- Doctoral Application Essay
- Recommendation from a Professor, Employer, or Professional Leader
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae
- Two Recent Photographs for Student dentification
The University reserves the right to request interviews, additional documents, writing samples, portfolios, or other materials when deemed necessary for admission consideration.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
- Complete the prescribed doctoral program within five academic years. A maximum of seven years may be granted upon approval of the Academic Dean.
- Successfully complete all required coursework and program requirements.
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.
- Earn no grade below “B” in doctoral-level coursework. A grade of “C” constitutes unsuccessful completion of the course.
- Successfully pass all required qualifying examinations.
- Successfully complete the dissertation, doctoral project, or equivalent culminating research requirement.
- Successfully complete the oral defense of the dissertation or doctoral project.
- Complete all practicum, internship, residency, or professional engagement requirements, where applicable.
- Satisfy all financial obligations to the University.
- Receive approval for graduation from the appropriate faculty and academic administration.
- Complete GE 500 Worldview unless waived through approved biblical or theological coursework.
- Complete Service Leadership Engagement Program (SLEP)
- Successfully complete the required Capstone Graduation Program and On-Campus Residency Requirement.
The University reserves the right to establish additional graduation requirements for specific academic programs as approved by the faculty and administration. The program integrates business theory, applied research, executive leadership, technology innovation, global entrepreneurship, crisis management, and industry specialization to develop transformational leaders equipped for the future of business and society.
COURSES
Core Courses
12 Credit Hours(Select 3 courses)
| DBA 801 Advanced Strategic Management and Leadership (4) | |
| A comprehensive study of executive leadership theories, strategic decision-making, and transformational organizational leadership in complex business environments. The course examines strategic planning, competitive advantage, organizational change, and leadership effectiveness through real-world case studies and global business applications. Students develop advanced strategic thinking and executive-level leadership competencies for sustainable organizational success. | |
| DBA 802 Data Analytics and Strategic Decision Intelligence(4) | |
| Examines advanced data analytics techniques and decision intelligence frameworks that support executive-level strategic decision-making. Students develop skills in data visualization, predictive analytics, business performance measurement, and AI-enabled decision support to address complex organizational challenges. Emphasis is placed on translating analytical insights into effective business strategies and sustainable competitive advantage. | |
| DBA 803 Global Business Ethics, Governance, and Innovation (4) | |
| A study of ethical leadership, corporate governance systems, global regulatory frameworks, and innovation management in international business environments. The course explores ethical decision-making, corporate social responsibility, governance structures, and innovation strategies for sustainable organizational growth. Students analyze complex ethical and governance issues affecting multinational organizations and global markets. | |
| DBA 804 Innovation Strategy and Creative Leadership (4) | |
| An examination of innovation management frameworks, creative leadership theories, and strategic innovation processes within organizations. The course focuses on organizational creativity, disruptive innovation, entrepreneurial thinking, and leadership practices that foster innovation cultures. Students develop strategies for leading innovation initiatives in dynamic global markets. | |
| DBA 805 Global Sustainability and Future Development (4) | |
| An exploration of sustainability principles, future global development trends, and strategic organizational adaptation in changing business environments. The course examines ESG leadership, environmental sustainability, economic resilience, and future-oriented business systems that support long-term organizational effectiveness. Students evaluate sustainable development strategies within global and cross-cultural contexts. | |
Emphases Courses
16 Credit Hours(Select 4 courses)
AI and Digital Transformation Strategy: General
| DBA 811 Artificial Intelligence and Business Innovation (4) |
| A study of artificial intelligence technologies, intelligent systems, and AI-driven innovation strategies for modern organizations. The course examines automation, predictive analytics, machine learning applications, and digital business transformation processes that improve organizational efficiency and strategic competitiveness. Students analyze emerging AI trends shaping future industries and executive leadership. |
| DBA 812 Digital Transformation and Organizational Change (4) |
| An examination of digital transformation models, organizational adaptation strategies, and technology-driven change management processes. The course explores digital disruption, innovation ecosystems, organizational restructuring, and leadership strategies required to successfully manage technological transitions. Students develop frameworks for leading digital transformation initiatives across industries. |
| DBA 813 Business Analytics and Strategic Data Systems (4) |
| A study of business intelligence systems, strategic analytics, and organizational data management for executive decision-making. The course focuses on data visualization, predictive modeling, analytical frameworks, and performance measurement systems that support strategic business operations. Students learn to interpret complex data for organizational planning and competitive advantage. |
| DBA 814 Emerging Technology and Future Business Strategy (4) |
| An exploration of emerging technologies, future business systems, and innovation-driven strategic leadership in global organizations. The course examines blockchain, IoT, cybersecurity, digital ecosystems, and future technology trends influencing business transformation. Students evaluate strategic opportunities and risks associated with rapidly evolving technological environments. |
| DBA 815 AI Governance and Ethical Technology Leadership (4) |
| A study of AI governance systems, ethical technology frameworks, and responsible digital leadership in global organizations. The course examines AI ethics, regulatory compliance, digital accountability, and strategic governance practices affecting emerging technologies. Students evaluate ethical challenges and leadership responsibilities within AI-driven business environments. |
| DBA 816 Smart Organizations and Digital Ecosystems (4) |
| An exploration of smart organizational systems, digital ecosystems, and technology-enabled business transformation strategies. The course focuses on connected enterprises, intelligent operations, platform economies, and digital integration models that enhance organizational competitiveness. Students analyze future-ready digital business systems and innovation leadership practices. |
Free Electives
8 Credit Hours
Dissertation
9 Credit Hours
| RS 805 Dissertation Research Seminar (3) | |
| This course provides doctoral students with comprehensive guidance in the development, design, and completion of dissertation research. Students will explore advanced research methodologies, academic writing standards, literature review strategies, data collection and analysis procedures, and ethical considerations in scholarly research. Emphasis is placed on developing a well-structured dissertation proposal, conducting independent research, and preparing scholarly work suitable for doctoral-level academic and professional contribution. The seminar also supports students through the stages of dissertation planning, organization, presentation, and final defense preparation. | |
| RS 807 Dissertation (6) | |
| A minimum of 100 pages is required for dissertations. The title of the dissertation and the subject matter to be covered must be presented to the selected Chairman of the Student's Dissertation Committee for approval prior to beginning the research project. |
Capstone
3 Credit Hours
| CP 890 Capstone (3) |
| The Capstone course is designed as a final semester summative course for students to exhibit how their educational experience may positively influence their career. Details will be described in the Capstone syllabus. The Capstone will have three sections: 1) a research project agreed upon with their academic advisors prior to the final semester 2) a comprehensive examination 3) participation in the graduation seminars. |
Service leadership Engagement Program (SLEP)
The Service Leadership Engagement Program is designed to cultivate servant leadership, ethical responsibility, professional integrity, and community engagement through structured leadership service activities. Doctoral students participate in community service, organizational leadership projects, and professional engagement experiences that strengthen ethical leadership and social responsibility competencies.
Option 1 - Community Service
Complete 24 hours of approved community service, demonstrating leadership, civic engagement, and service to the community.
Option 2 - Leadership Service Seminar
Complete a 1-credit Leadership Service Seminar, which focuses on the role and responsibilities of leaders in serving communities. Students are required to attend the seminar and successfully complete a reflective report or assigned project demonstrating their understanding and application of service leadership principles.