Online Doctorate in International Business

Students can earn two types of international business doctorates, depending on the desired application in the professional world. A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) with a concentration in international business is typically the best option for individuals who plan to employ their knowledge and skills in corporate leadership positions. A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in international business degree, on the other hand, is preferred for students seeking positions as researchers or university educators.

Students in an international business doctoral program generally choose to specialize in a particular area such as finance, human resources, supply chain management or international marketing. In most programs, students take certain core courses in these concentrated topics before moving on to advanced work in their area of specialization. Nearly all programs also require students to take courses in research method and analysis.

Some schools offer online doctoral degrees in international business, allowing students to structure their degree plan around preexisting responsibilities. Some online programs can be completed entirely through distance study, while others require students to attend one or more periods of on-campus residency during their tenure.

Three main components make up DBA or Ph.D. degree programs in international business. Students must first complete required coursework, then pass comprehensive exams in the field. Some programs ask students to sit for just one exam, covering the core academic competencies of the discipline. Others require separate exams for core competencies, research methodology and the area of specialization.

Once coursework and examinations are complete, students move on to the dissertation stage. Dissertations are supervised by faculty advisors and must be defended in front of a panel or committee of faculty members.

Most international business doctoral programs require candidates to hold a master's degree in international business or a related field. Students who are able to transfer a significant amount of courses from their master's degree may only need about two years to complete the Ph.D. Students who don't have a relevant degree may require four or more years.

In addition, students are typically required to submit Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores when applying. Test requirements tend to vary by school.

For more details about online international business doctorate programs, browse the school listings below to request more information or to arrange to speak to an admission counselor at any schools of interest.