Frequently Asked Questions
Accreditation
Is this an accredited Doctorate of Business Administration program?
Yes, this program is accredited by the Association to Advance College Schools of Business (AASCB). It is also a member of the Executive Doctorate in Business Council (EDBAC).
Pedagogy
Is this an online program?
The program is designed to be a hybrid-learning experience where a majority of your time is spent learning online. You will come to campus just three times a year (August, January, and June) for mostly 3-day in-person residencies
Are the classes delivered through live sessions or another format?
Classes are led by full-time faculty. They are both synchronous (live sessions) and asynchronous (meaning you will not “attend” class at a set time, but rather, access pre-recorded lectures and digital curriculum materials and respond through email, discussion boards, social networking, and collaborative documents at a time of convenience to you). This format allows you some flexibility, enabling you to prioritize your time between work, family, and school.
Schedule
How much time needs to be dedicated to this program per week?
Expect to spend an average of 15 to 20 hours a week on required work, which includes live sessions, readings, exercises, presentations, discussions, etc.
How often will I be required to be in the classroom? On campus?
Weekly live sessions: Expect to dedicate approximately two to three hours a week for live, online sessions.
On-campus residencies: Following the 4-day kick-off in August, year 1, you will come to campus just three times a year (August, January, and June) for 3-day in-person residencies. These residencies begin Friday evening and end Sunday evening, and include classes, guest speakers, group work, and meals.
Can I work full-time and complete this program?
Absolutely. This is an executive D.B.A. program designed for working professionals. There will be approximately 15-20 hours of work a week including live classes, readings, discussions, etc.
Is the academic calendar structured? Semesters, quarters? Are there breaks?
The program follows a semester system. However, residencies are scheduled during the summer (June and August) and the winter break (January). There are breaks between semesters and residencies, but you are expected to be working on your dissertation whenever possible.
What is the expected time frame for expected completion?
This program is designed to be completed in three years. It opens with an on-campus residency in August (year 1) and ends with a graduation ceremony in August of year 3. For a tentative schedule, click here.
Candidate Qualifications
What qualifications do I need to apply to this program?
To be considered for admission, you need to hold a master’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum of ten years of experience, with at least seven years at a managerial position.
Is the program open to international students?
Yes, the program is open to international students. Please note, all classes are taught in English.
Admissions
What are the admission requirements?
The main requirements for admission are a master’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum of ten years of experience, with at least seven years at a managerial position.
What is the application deadline?
For your application to receive full consideration, it should be submitted by July 15th of the year you are planning to start the program.
Is the admissions process rolling?
Yes, once your application is submitted, it is reviewed by a committee and the program director reaches out to you for the next step. The earlier you submit your application, the higher is your chance for a favorable outcome.
Is there a summer window for enrollment?
It may still be possible to be admitted early in the summer, however it is highly advised to apply asap to receive a full consideration. There is a limited size for each cohort and once it is finalized, the only option is to wait for the next.
Is it helpful for me to share my potential starting point for a dissertation topic in my application essay?
Yes, this is very important as the goal of the program is to leverage your experience to help you address a practical problem you are interested in. That starting point will be discussed during your interview.
Fees/Funding/Scholarships
What is the total cost of this program?
The total cost for the three-year program is $83,175 ($30,375 year one, $26,400 year two, and $26,400 year three) for those enrolling in Fall 2024 (Class of 2027 cohort). Tuition includes learning materials, and residency expenses including lodging and meals (excluding travel).
How does the total cost compare to other D.B.A. programs?
The University of Rhode Island College of Business has designed an affordable program for business leaders that is extremely competitive when compared to other offerings across the country. A tight focus on high quality research training and flexible engagement offerings allow us to offer an exceptional value without sacrificing quality or networking opportunities.
Is there an in-state tuition option?
No, everyone pays the same tuition.
Are there scholarships/funding opportunities (esp. for women, minorities, international students)?
The program is designed for working professionals who fund their training. The cost is very competitive and there are no scholarships available right now.
Contact Information
Can I have an appointment with someone to discuss feasibility?
For general information you can reach out to Elizabeth Stusse (liz_stusse@uri.edu)
For the application platform and required materials you can reach out to
Shi Li Shen (slshen@uri.edu)
For academic questions you can reach out to
Georges Tsafack K. (gtsafack@uri.edu), Program Director
Christy Ashley (christyashley@uri.edu)