Executive Doctorate of Business Administration (E.D.B.A.)

Built for working professionals ready to lead, teach and innovate.

The Executive Doctorate of Business Administration (E.D.B.A.) at the College of Charleston is designed for senior professionals seeking to bridge academic research and business practice. This rigorous program equips students with advanced research methodologies and a strong theoretical foundation to address complex, real-world business challenges. 

Apply to the E.D.B.A. Program

Program Overview

The Doctorate of Business Administration strengthens strategic decision-making, problem-solving, and leadership capabilities.

Students will receive training in both quantitative and qualitative research methods, ensuring they can analyze complex business issues from multiple perspectives.

  • Three-year program spanning nine terms, including summers
  • 55 credit hours
  • Dissertation — including mandatory proposal and defense — demonstrating the student’s ability to apply rigorous research to practical business problems

Why Earn Your DBA at the College of Charleston?

The Executive Doctorate in Business Administration at the College of Charleston is South Carolina’s first program of its kind—designed for experienced professionals looking to advance their careers, transition to consulting, or teach in higher education. 

Key Benefits

  • Premier Location: Learn in one of the country’s top destinations—Charleston, SC. 
  • Flexible Format: Hybrid delivery with one on-campus weekend per term. 
  • All-Inclusive Tuition: $85,500 covers tuition, materials, parking, meals, and more. 
  • Professional Cohort Model: Build lasting connections with peers and business leaders. 
  • Real-World Focus: Curriculum blends academic rigor with practical application. 
  • No Business Degree Required: Open to professionals from all industries. 

Careers & Outcomes

DBA graduates advance into or continue in executive leadership positions, academia, consulting, or non-profits organizations.
 
For those in industry, a DBA can elevate individuals into the C-Suite or senior level leadership. The credential leverages expertise in strategy and informed decision-making. Advanced skills in research methodologies can build upon improved business performance and innovation.

An interest in education and research can position graduates to pursue roles in academia, serving as higher education faculty or administrators. Unlike a traditional Ph.D., DBA graduates frequently teach in professional programs where they can offer practical insights alongside their area of academic expertise. 

The DBA credential also establishes graduates as industry thought leaders and an endorsement to serve in a consulting capacity. With significant years of experience in industry and a degree that shows strength in strategic decision making, graduates can serve as high-level consultants using their research expertise to provide data-drive solutions and recommend best practices across industries.

Apply to the E.D.B.A.. Program

Applying to the Executive Doctorate of Business Administration program is your first step toward developing skills to advancing your skills in leadership, research and consulting.
  • Dates & Deadlines

    Application Deadline

    Fall: December 1, priority; February 1, Regular

  • Application Process

    To apply, begin by creating an account and selecting the School of Business Graduate Application. Choose the Executive Doctorate of Business Administration (EDBA) from the program list. You may complete your application in multiple sessions. Here’s what you’ll need to submit: 

    1. Transcript(s) 
      A master’s degree from an accredited institution is required for admission. Unofficial transcripts may be uploaded for initial review.* 
    2. Resume or CV 
      Include a current resume detailing your professional experience, especially roles with increasing responsibility and leadership. 
    3. Statement of Purpose 
      This written statement should highlight your professional background, reasons for pursuing the EDBA, and how the program aligns with your career goals. 
    4. Letters of Recommendation 
      Submit three letters of recommendation from academic or professional contacts who can speak to your leadership, work ethic, and potential for doctoral-level study. 
    5. Interview 
      Selected applicants may be invited to participate in an interview as part of the evaluation process. 

    We recommend submitting all application materials well in advance of the deadline to ensure timely processing and review. 

    *Official transcripts will be required upon admission. Standardized test scores (e.g., GMAT/GRE) are not required for this program. 

    Begin Your Application
  • E.D.B.A. Admissions Criteria

    • Master’s degree (MBA preferred)
    • Minimum 10 years of work experience (managerial experience preferred)
    • Resume, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation
    • No GMAT required