Overview
Reach Your Pinnacle
“Nashville has become a highly cosmopolitan region with worldwide name recognition for its economic vitality and career and business opportunities.” –Entrepreneur magazine
Looking to elevate your business skills and take your career to the next level? Desire to teach, consult or maximize your influence in a corporate or academic setting? Benefit from our team of experienced faculty members in Nashville, one of the most financially thriving cities in the United States.
Here’s how Trevecca’s new fully online Doctor of Business Administration degree can help you reach your peak as a professional:
- Customized coursework
Choose from these three tracks of study based on your career goals.
Higher Education – Designed for those interested in teaching business or serving as a college administrator.
Consulting and Coaching – Structured to equip graduates to serve as internal or external executive consultants and coaches.
Enterprise Leading and Managing – Focused on developing enterprise-level leaders who work in complex and/or entrepreneurial settings. - Innovative instruction
Benefit from our faculty’s breadth of industry experience. Gain understanding of the global environment’s impact on business decisions and strategies. Utilize the latest in technological innovation to strengthen training methods and communication initiatives. Learn how research techniques can solve some of your company’s most pressing concerns. Discover how to create a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship within your organization. - Integrative approach
Deepen your ability to navigate professional complexities with an ethical and values-based perspective. Establish a foundation of how to flourish with integrity while facing the evolving challenges and opportunities within your professional setting.
What you can expect:
- Accessibility. The 32-month program is 100 percent online with no GMAT required. Additionally, the degree is available to students who hold various types of graduate degrees in addition to those with MBAs. All courses have 19 students or less.
- Relevancy. Coursework will connect the latest business trends and philosophies with practical leadership skills and competencies. Students will interpret business intelligence through data analytics to solve organizational problems, improve inefficiencies and provide real-time alternatives.
- Results. Students can choose to complete an applied doctoral project as part of their coursework where they tackle issues relating to entrepreneurial management, executive coaching, higher education leadership and more. Research a topic that pertains to your passions and career. Focus on problems that need solving within your profession and finish the program with a degree and practical solutions in hand. Or, complete a traditional dissertation, building on theoretical knowledge in a desired area of study—the more typical path for those pursuing a career in academia. Either option will provide the training and resources needed to progress in upper management or other executive opportunities.
Faculty
General Resources
News
Core Classes
Introduction to Doctoral Business Studies
BUS 8000
Students will develop the skills needed to understand and engage in doctoral-level critical thinking, research, analytics, analysis and application. Specific focus will include writing effectively at the doctoral-level using APA, and analyzing data effectively using Excel. Students will also work on example cases that represent best practices in applied doctoral research and solutions.
Course Hours: 4
Current Topics in Management and Leadership
BUS 8010
This course will review current principles and best practices in management and leadership. Analysis of these trends will be reviewed in the literature and selected case studies. Students will reflect on their own management and leadership patterns.
Course Hours: 4
Current Topics in Business Strategy
BUS 8020
Students will review strategic management foundations as well as current strategic principles and practices. Students will review cases related to strategy development and execution.
Course Hours: 4
Current Topics in Accounting and Finance
BUS 8030
This course is designed to facilitate comprehension of financial transactions and reports for effective applications to managerial decision-making and strategic formulation. Current topics from accounting and finance that drive value creation in both tactical and strategic initiatives will be explored. Topics will include corporate governance, cost management, profitability analysis, forecasting financial statements, credit evaluation and market-based valuation.
Course Hours: 4
Current Topics in Marketing
BUS 8040
This doctoral-level marketing course is designed to focus on contemporary marketing issues faced by a firm’s top management. Analysis of these problems will focus on accepted theory and best practices of leading-edge companies in pursuit of a sustainable competitive advantage.
Course Hours: 4
Introduction to Applied Business Research Design
BUS 8050
This course explores various common research designs and examines the qualities of reliable and valid measures. In addition, students will understand the essentials of internal, external and construct validity.
Course Hours: 4
Applied Business Research Principles and Practices
BUS 8200
Student will review project-based, qualitative and blended research methodologies including both theoretical foundations and with cases demonstrating applied principles and practices. Research writing will be developed.
Course Hours: 4
Introduction to Applied Business Research Analytics
BUS 8210
This course is designed to equip students with the statistical tools needed to analyze the data from a variety of different research designs that an organization might use to assess operational issues. In addition, students will develop the skills necessary to interpret and present findings.
Course Hours: 4
Applied Doctoral Project Proposal / Dissertation Proposal Development
BUS 8220
In this course, students will pull together all they have learned related to applied business research principles and practices and develop the research framework and proposal for the applied doctoral project or dissertation that they will complete for this program.
Course Hours: 4
DBA Applied Doctoral Project
Part 1 – Problem Solution and Design
BUS 8300
Students will finalize the design of their applied doctoral project to the point of being ready for execution.
Part 2 – Project Execution and Analysis
BUS 8310
Students will execute their applied doctoral project and analyze the results of their project.
Part 3 – Project Report and Completion
BUS 8320
Student will complete their applied doctoral project finalizing their report for approval and graduation.
Course Hours: 4
DBA Dissertation
Dissertation 1 – Proposal Completion
BUS 8350
Students will finalize their dissertation proposal details and be ready for execution.
Dissertation 2 – Data Collection and Analysis
BUS 8360
Students will collect data and perform planned analysis.
Dissertation 3 – Dissertation Completion
BUS 8370
Students will complete their dissertation reporting and meet all requirements for graduation.
Course Hours: 4
Higher Education Track
Higher Education Leadership and Administration
BUS 8100
Student will review the foundations of higher education leadership and assessment, considering several case studies that demonstrate current principles and practices for those in higher education leadership today.
Teaching in Higher Education: Principles and Practices
BUS 8110
Teaching at the collegiate and graduate levels has a rich heritage and well-developed current practices. These patterns will be studied and exemplified in class and selected case studies.
Teaching Practicum
BUS 8120
Students will be assigned to a Trevecca course where they will partner with a Trevecca faculty member in the instruction of an online course. Additional work will be assigned in reflecting on the teaching observed and areas of continued development for the student.
Enterprise Leadership & Management Track
Leading at the Enterprise Level
BUS 8130
Leading at the enterprise level requires a broad array of insights and skills. Cases studies will be engaged to better understand these skills and the different ways in which leadership can be expressed.
Managing Complex Operations
BUS 8140
Students will review the foundations of operations management and the principles and practices found in managing at this level including such topics as lean, Six Sigma, process improvement and supporting technologies.
Entrepreneurial Management
BUS 8150
Students will learn how to approach innovation within an organization like an entrepreneur, including how to create a culture of creativity, use small teams to drive innovation throughout the organization, quickly evaluate new ideas and teach others within the organization to think and act like entrepreneurs.
Consulting & Coaching Track
Current Principles and Practices in Consulting
BUS 8160
Consulting is designed to help organizations with innovation and improved effectiveness. Students will study cases that demonstrate best practices in consulting. They will also learn real-world practices they can use for internal and external consulting.
Current Principles and Practices in Executive Coaching
BUS 8170
Students will engage current principles and practices in executive coaching. Focus will be on empowering leaders in professional development as well as moving the enterprises they lead forward. Students will apply learned principles in applied practice both inside and outside the classroom.
Consulting and/or Coaching Practicum
BUS 8180
Students will design and implement a consulting and/or coaching engagement with a leader and/or organization. Students will report on outcomes pursued as well as demonstrated progress.
Healthcare Administration (HCA) Track
The Culturally Competent Healthcare Leader
This course examines various models and strategies executive leaders may use to promote the delivery of culturally competent care and establish a culturally competent environment in healthcare organizations and healthcare systems. Students will conduct a self-assessment of their cultural competency. Through application of theoretical and conceptual frameworks, case scenarios, and interpretation of self-assessment scores, students will learn how to promote cultural intelligence throughout healthcare organizations and healthcare systems.
Change Management and Negotiation Strategies
This course will help students learn strategic methods of change management and how to effectively lead change in healthcare organizations. Students will examine change models, challenges leaders encounter while leading change, and negotiation tactics to overcome barriers to change. Through the application of theoretical and conceptual schema, case scenarios, and other related material, students will identify their negotiation style and learn how to influence change to promote organizational development and achieve desirable outcomes for all stakeholders of health organizations.
Quality Systems Management and Regulatory Affairs
In this course, students will examine the purpose and role of regulatory requirements in healthcare organizations. Students will also learn the significance of quality management systems and how such tools assist healthcare executives in establishing quality control measures and evidence-based practices in yielding optimal healthcare and services. Through case scenarios, collaborative group work, application and synthesis of continuous quality improvement concepts, principles, and models, students will learn how to develop evidence-based management processes and influence enhanced clinical outcomes and operational efficiency.
Program Details
Total Credit Hours
60
Program Length
Approximately 32 months, depending on previously completed coursework
Mode
Online
Track Options
Students should identify vocational interests and goals and then chart their course of study in one of four tracks—
- Higher Education – Designed for those interested in teaching business or serving as a college administrator.
- Consulting and Coaching – Structured to equip graduates to serve as internal or external executive consultants and coaches.
- Enterprise Leading and Managing – Focused on developing enterprise-level leaders who work in complex and/or entrepreneurial settings.
- Healthcare Administration – Created to prepare graduates for leadership and service in healthcare organizations at the middle and senior management levels.
Applied Doctoral Project or Dissertation Option
In addition to completing coursework that coincides with the selected degree track, students will have the choice of completing a traditional dissertation or an Applied Doctoral Project.
Applied Doctoral Project
An Applied Doctoral Project (ADP) is designed for working practitioners who want to use more sophisticated methodology and data to address real-world problems and issues. For example:
- Why are we experiencing employee turnover and how can we reduce it?
- What strategies are most successful in improving cash flows?
- What social media practices are most likely to help in increasing sales?
- How can we improve processes and reduce costs?
NOTE: ADPs include these chapters:
- Introduction
- Literature Review
- Problem or Opportunity
- Solutions or Recommendations
Dissertation
A classic dissertation is a pathway to new knowledge and is the more typical choice of academic faculty and leaders. Here are some examples of topics explored:
- Do diverse teams help to reduce sexual discrimination?
- Do stores in larger populations centers generate higher per store sales?
- Which college majors have the lowest and highest retention at Christian colleges?
NOTE: Dissertations include these chapters:
- Introduction
- Literature Review
- Methodology
- Findings and Recommendations
Locations/Modes
Online
We understand life is busy and you may not have time to attend class on campus. That's why we offer our programs 100 percent online. Whether you are a working adult, a stay-at-home parent, or simply live outside of Nashville, we make it easy to earn your degree while focusing on one class at a time, any time—24/7. Classes are taught online through our learning management system, Blackboard. Additionally, books and materials are delivered to your front door. And when we say the degree is entirely online, we mean it. With the way our program is structured, you never have to step foot on campus--not even once!
With our online degree programs, you can expect the same level of quality and rigor that Trevecca has provided students since 1901. Our online students also benefit from a cohort model, where students begin and complete their degree alongside a group of other online classmates working toward similar goals.
Outcomes / Careers
Trevecca’s online Doctor in Business Administration (DBA) degree program is designed for experienced professionals who want to take their education to the next level. The curriculum offers instruction on the latest business theories and methods paired with practical applications for the workplace.
Professionals who’ve obtained a DBA are uniquely prepared to run major corporations, international companies or teach business at a prestigious school. They are strong candidates for careers in research organizations, firms, banks or other enterprises.
Executives who earn a DBA are well-positioned for roles such as these:
- Operations Manager
- Chief Financial Officer
- Senior Managerial Consultant
- Director of Human Resources Management
- Chief Executive Officer
- Dean of Business
- Senior Manager
- Business Faculty
- Executive Coach
Admissions
Getting Started
- Complete the online application (it's free!).
Need help applying? Read the step-by-step instructions here! - Fill out FAFSA to be considered for financial aid
- Request official transcripts from your previous graduate institution
Admissions Requirements
- Have earned a master's degree from an institution accredited by a CHEA-recognized regional accrediting agency or the Association for Biblical Higher Education. Students who do not meet these degree requirements may be conditionally accepted in accordance with the Conditional Admission Policy
- A 3.4 cumulative GPA for all prior graduate coursework
- Official transcript sent directly from graduate institution to Trevecca
- Submit résumé or curriculum vitae
- Complete interview with the program director
- Provide photocopy of government-issued identification (e.g., driver's license, state ID, military ID, passport). This requirement ensures that Trevecca complies with the U.S. Department of Education expectations for student verification.
Degree Requirements
- A graduate degree is required for all applicants seeking admittance into the program.
- 60 semester credits are required for graduation
- For students entering the program without an undergraduate or graduate degree in a business area but with a master’s degree in a non-business area of study, 5 credits of prerequisites are required. These prerequisites (two 6-week MBA courses) can be taken at Trevecca. Prerequisites must be completed before the start of the first DBA course.
These prerequisites include—
- BUS 6000 (2 credits) Introduction to Graduate Business Studies
- BUS 6015 (3 credits) Accounting and Finance for Managers
Additional Information
- Applicants outside of the United States are required to submit a TOEFL score of 550 or above to considered for admission.
- A limited number of students may be admitted conditionally outside of the normal admission requirements based on an extensive amount of professional experience.
Questions?
We’re here to help every step of the way.
Email us at sgcsadmissions@trevecca.edu or call us at 844-TNU-GRAD.
Info Session
Interested in learning more?
Join us for a virtual information session held on February 15, 2022 where you can hear from professors and students about the Doctor of Business Administration.
Financial Aid & Costs
Worried about the future? We’ve got you covered!
At Trevecca, we understand we’re in unprecedented times. We believe you should be free to follow your dreams without fear. If you’re unable to complete a course due to COVID-19, we’ll refund the course cost to you. Full details can be found here.
How much will it cost?
| Tuition | Credit Hours | Program Duration | Tuition Costs |
| $699/credit hour | 60 | 32 months | $41,940 |
*$50 fee assessed per course. Books are not included.
How am I going to pay for it?
- Federal loans are available to all eligible students who complete a FAFSA
- Employer tuition reimbursement opportunities
- Monthly payments through Trevecca make fulfilling tuition requirements more manageable
- Military benefits such as Yellow Ribbon and GI Bills are accepted by Trevecca University
How do I qualify?
- Fill out your FAFSA. Based on your income, you will know how much federal financial aid you are eligible to receive
- Talk to your employer about tuition reimbursement opportunities
- For military benefits, contact the Academic Records Office at 1.615.248.1268
Related Programs
Doctor of Education in Leadership and Professional Practice
Not sure if the Doctor of Business Administration is right for you? Consider Trevecca’s Leadership and Professional Practice doctoral degree as another alternative to elevate your career. Our Ed.D. program is designed for aspiring leaders who want to advance their careers through garnering a wider breadth of skills and expertise in exceptional leadership. Our comprehensive program appeals to professionals across various fields including:
- Business
- Healthcare
- Non-profit management
- Ministry
- Education
FAQs
I already earned my MBA. What's the advantage of receiving a DBA?
How feasible is it for me to continue in my current career while earning this degree?
What’s the financial incentive to obtaining a DBA?
What are the technology requirements for this program?
Overview
Reach Your Pinnacle
“Nashville has become a highly cosmopolitan region with worldwide name recognition for its economic vitality and career and business opportunities.” –Entrepreneur magazine
Looking to elevate your business skills and take your career to the next level? Desire to teach, consult or maximize your influence in a corporate or academic setting? Benefit from our team of experienced faculty members in Nashville, one of the most financially thriving cities in the United States.
Here’s how Trevecca’s fully online Doctor of Business Administration degree can help you reach your peak as a professional:
Customized coursework
Choose from these four tracks of study based on your career goals.
- Higher Education – Designed for those interested in teaching business or serving as a college administrator.
- Consulting and Coaching – Structured to equip graduates to serve as internal or external executive consultants and coaches.
- Enterprise Leading and Managing – Focused on developing enterprise-level leaders who work in complex and/or entrepreneurial settings.
- Health Care Administration – Created to prepare graduates for leadership and service in healthcare organizations at the middle and senior management levels.
Innovative instruction
Benefit from our faculty’s breadth of industry experience. Gain an understanding of the global environment’s impact on business decisions and strategies. Utilize the latest in technological innovation to strengthen training methods and communication initiatives. Learn how research techniques can solve some of your company’s most pressing concerns. Discover how to create a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship within your organization.
Integrative approach
Deepen your ability to navigate professional complexities with an ethical and values-based perspective. Establish a foundation of how to flourish with integrity while facing the evolving challenges and opportunities within your professional setting.
What you can expect:
- Accessibility. The 32-month program is 100 percent online with no GMAT required. Additionally, the degree is available to students who hold various types of graduate degrees in addition to those with MBAs. All courses have 19 students or less.
- Relevancy. Coursework will connect the latest business trends and philosophies with practical leadership skills and competencies. Students will interpret business intelligence through data analytics to solve organizational problems, improve inefficiencies and provide real-time alternatives.
- Results. Students can choose to complete an applied doctoral project as part of their coursework where they tackle issues relating to entrepreneurial management, executive coaching, higher education leadership and more. Research a topic that pertains to your passions and career. Focus on problems that need solving within your profession and finish the program with a degree and practical solutions in hand. Or, complete a traditional dissertation, building on theoretical knowledge in a desired area of study—the more typical path for those pursuing a career in academia. Either option will provide the training and resources needed to progress in upper management or other executive opportunities.