DBA in Finance

Program Overview

The Rushford DBA in Finance is a 180 ECTS doctoral program designed to equip business professionals with advanced knowledge, research skills, and analytical abilities. The program offers two pathways: Coursework-based, emphasizing coursework completion, and Research-based, focusing on independent research culminating in a dissertation. Graduates are prepared for high-level roles in academia, industry, and other professional settings, contributing to organizational growth and sustainability.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Rushford DBA in Finance is a 180 ECTS credits doctoral program designed to equip business students, managers, practitioners, and leaders with high-level knowledge, research, and analytical skills. The program emphasizes the application of theory to real-world business challenges and prepares graduates to solve complex business problems and contribute to organizational growth and sustainability.

Objectives:

• Enhance research skills for critical analysis and problem-solving
• Develop strong command over business communication skills
• Build proficiency in data collection, interpretation, and reporting
• Foster engagement in academic and professional research activities
• Prepare graduates for high-level roles in academia, industry, and other professional settings

Program Description:

The DBA in Finance program is available in two pathways: Coursework-based and Research-based. Both pathways provide a solid foundation in business and finance theory and practices, but the Research-based pathway requires a significant focus on independent research culminating in a doctoral dissertation. The Coursework-based pathway emphasizes coursework completion and covers topics such as managerial skills, accounting, strategic management, business management, and specialization tracks tailored to individual interests. The Research-based pathway focuses on research and includes coursework in research design, business statistics, qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, and a written dissertation proposal.

Outline:

Coursework-based Pathway:

• Business Management Track: Includes courses on business management, managerial skills, leadership, managerial economics, international business environment, accounting for financial reporting, and strategic management.
• Specialization Track: Allows students to choose six courses from a variety of specializations to deepen their knowledge in specific areas of interest.
• Research Track: Covers introduction to academic research, literature review, research design, business statistics, designing qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, and a written proposal defense.

Research-based Pathway:

• Specialization Track: Includes three subject specialization courses tailored to the student's research interests.
• Research Track: Similar to the Coursework-based pathway, covering research design, business statistics, research methodologies, and a written dissertation proposal.
• Doctoral Dissertation: Students undertake an independent research project and submit a written dissertation for evaluation and defense.

Assessment:

The program's assessment methods include:

• Coursework assignments and examinations
• Written research proposals and dissertations
• Presentations and defenses of research findings
• Participation in class discussions and research seminars
• Peer evaluations and feedback

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program combines online lectures, discussions, case studies, and simulations to provide a flexible and engaging learning experience. Students also participate in research workshops and individual mentorship with faculty advisors.

Faculty:

The faculty comprises experienced academics and industry professionals with expertise in finance, business management, and research methods.

Unique Approaches:

The program features a focus on applied research, allowing students to immediately apply their learning to real-world business situations. The program also provides opportunities for students to present their research at conferences and publish in academic journals.

Careers:

Graduates of the DBA in Finance program are prepared for various high-level roles, including:

• Senior management positions in finance, investment, and banking
• Corporate finance and consulting roles
• Academia and research institutions
• Government and non-profit organizations
• Entrepreneurship and business ownership