If you're currently working in a managerial position or as an executive and you'd like to broaden your horizons, you should definitely consider getting a DBA degree. You'll learn an advanced set of skills that will let you access senior roles and have a greater say in the direction of the companies you're working with. You could also get your credentials while keeping your current position by getting your degree online. Let's take a look at a few reasons why all executives should consider getting an online DBA degree.
Outstanding Networking Opportunities
One of the things people don't realise about online DBA programs is the networking opportunities they offer. While you may not have the same level of face-to-face interaction you'd have with a traditional program, you will have the chance to rub shoulders with people from very different fields and coming from all over the globe.
Online DBAs attract a lot of international students, and you might have the chance to get exposed to problems you never knew existed and emerging markets. This is also a great place to meet people who started their own ventures and have experiences to share. Never underestimate the power of diversity and what you could get from following courses with people with such diverse experiences and backgrounds.
Extremely Convenient
Another benefit of getting an online DBA is that it's extremely convenient. You could choose to go with a program that will allow you to follow classes on a set schedule or go for asynchronous learning.
Asynchronous classes allow you to watch courses when it’s most convenient for you. This means that you could get up early and watch course material right before going to work or fulfilling parental obligations. Or you could take classes at the end of the day.
You could also make things easier for you by going for a part-time program. It might take you a little bit more time to get your credentials, but you won’t be putting as much stress on yourself and will be able to apply the new things you learn in your current position. This alone could allow you to advance before you even get your credentials.
Less Expensive
You can't expect to pay much less for tuition on your online DBA, but you'll save in so many ways. First, you won't have to pay for all the campus-related fees other students have to pay for. You won't need to spend as much on study material or transportation either. Being able to follow classes from home will also prevent you from having to eat out all the time.
Your Credentials will be Highly Respected
You should also know that your credentials will be as highly regarded as anyone else's as long as you get your degree from a prestigious school. What will matter the most with your DBA is not how you got it, but where you go it from. This is why you need to look at how the school’s business faculty is ranked before you make a choice.
The overall program's overall reputation is what will make the biggest difference, so don't worry too much about what people will think about you getting your degree online. There is no way for them to know how you got your degree and you'll get the same level of education as any other graduate.
If we were to make a recommendation, we would suggest you check out Aston University and its online DBA programme. They have one of the highest-ranking business faculties in the UK and your credentials will be recognised instantly, so take a closer look at what their program has to offer and how well their graduates are doing.
It Will Ignite Your Passion for the Field
One of the things that separates doctors of business administration from MBAs is how much more knowledge of the inner workings of business they have. They understand how to compile and analyse business data much better and are much better at making predictive models. They will always have a significant advantage, not only as executives but as entrepreneurs as well.
This is why DBAs are so valued in business and finance. They have a very unique set of skills that allow them to stand out on boards or as consultants. They may also be asked to work as researchers. DBAs make such an impact on their companies, and you will feel much more valued than you are currently as an administrator.
Opens Many Career Opportunities
Another thing that makes being a DBA so great is the wide variety of fields you'll have the chance to work in. You'll be able to work in education, business, or healthcare. Some DBAs end up working as policymakers or holding public office.
You might be asked to work on government boards and perform research that could affect the future of the country. You might even be called by people from other countries trying to shape their fiscal policies. If you are craving variety and are ready to take on new challenges, going with a DBA could be a good option.
Better Salaries
Last, but not least, having a DBA will almost guarantee that you get paid in the six figures. Your resume will also allow you to step in front of the line for many positions. Getting a job as an investment banker, for instance, will be much easier with a DBA since you’ll be competing with MBAs. You could also qualify for advanced roles like director of analytics and earn as much as £190,000 per year. Getting a DBA is a great choice if you want to make sure that you’ll always have a job and get paid handsomely for what you do.
These are all reasons why getting an online DBA makes so much sense for an executive. Consider the option if you haven’t already and take a look at a few programs to see what they have to offer.