What a great forum! I can honestly say that I have been searching for exactly this type of forum for at least 2 months. In advance, I would like to thank everyone that responds to this post. Your assistance is very much appreciated. First, I took the time to search the board for all posts related to the DBA qualification. I gathered some excellent information regarding a number of programs (Grenoble appears to be a board favorite. Looks like a great program). Clearly, this board attracts a very knowledgeable set of individuals; therefore, I anticipate some excellent responses. My primary question is whether or not the DBA makes sense for me. My background: Age 30 Manager Level in Fortune 500 Company responsible for fraud investigations worldwide Currently responsible for 20 direct reports Currently enrolled in an Executive MBA program at a Big 10 US State School (loving almost every minute of it!) Previous experience in Litigation Consulting for "Big 5" as well as a regional Litigation firm Educational background - Undergraduate from a Scottish University - Economics and Business Law Diploma in Accounting Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) Certified Business Manager (CBM - Grand fathered) Currently living in the US (Since 1994) Extensive domestic and well as international travel Regular interaction with the Vice President and Senior Vice President level. For what it is worth, classified as a "high performer" The primary reason for pursuing a DBA is to delve much deeper into the issues I have encountered in my MBA studies. It is apparent to me that my MBA studies are informative; yet, they do not fully investigate the issue at hand to sufficiently satisfy my intellectual curiosity. Second, I anticipate that in the not too distant future, I will return to consulting (possibly Litigation Consulting, potentially Strategic Consulting). Third, I love learning! Somewhat cheesy, but I truly enjoy reading and learning about all aspects of business. I also really enjoy talking to "smart people". So what say you? Does a DBA make sense for me? If not, what other avenue would you recommend? Again, thanks for taking the time to post.
OK, I would say yes, but give the following recommendations. First, you probably want to continue working, so you need a part time program. Second, does your employer reimburse? This will show the limitations. You didn’t say if your company has international ties, but that is one reason I picked an European school. I don’t think it would ever hurt you to have a doctorate, most of our executives do, and especially useful for consulting. Do you want to teach? If so, do you know where? That would make a difference in the accreditation (RA vs AACSB). I have not found the accreditation to hold much more value than that (and my employer only reimburses AACSB). Check into it and good luck. Also, if you pick a dissertation topic that is something your employer is battling, they might be inclined to foot the bill. Just a suggestion. Do you mind me asking where the MBA is coming from? (Just curious) Consider your personal situation as well – I have heard one of the common reasons people are ABD is that they are having kids, moving fast to executive management, or have other commitments. There are only 2 of us in the Grenoble program that post here (I think), but interesting new lately on it, and that is way there are a few threads, but the board has a great deal of knowledge on other programs. Good luck and let us know what you decide.
Very quick response. Thank you. Here are some answers/comments to your questions: You are correct. Financially does not make any sense to study full time. I also like working (for the most part) Not really. My current tuition is $52,000 plus on campus residency. My company picks up $4,000. Based upon my classmates experience, my company has the lowest reimbursement policy. However, I did know that going in to the program, so I can't complain. My company is very international. I work for a major airline. I find many U.S. programs and the education in general, (I stress in general) is quite U.S. centric, so for that reason I too would prefer a European school. Unfortunately, none of our executives (to the best of my knowledge) have DBAs, or PhDs. I don't think I do want to teach, however, bitter experience has taught me never to rule out any option. My current thinking is no, but that could change in short order. Great suggestion! However, given the industry I work in, and the current policy, I doubt they would fund my DBA. Sure, The Ohio State University - Fisher College of Business. In my opinion, a great program. Thanks for such a quick reply! Happy holidays!
Funny you should suggest that Mike, I have also been considering a law degree. I am lucky enough to have several nationally recognized programs in my city. Ultimately, I am not sure what a DBA versus a law degree will do for my career. Regardless, it will give me options. Out of curosity, why do you suggest a law degree?
