Patrick ConnallyEngagement Director| TeradataPhiladelphia, Pa, United States
Seeking to engage with those who are considering, or who have obtained, a PhD / DBA in project management. Would love to learn more about the process, and paths once the degree is obtained.
I'm considering a DBA. If I were to start this year, I would be stuck deciding between Project Management and Strategy/Innovation.
As things are, it will probably be a few years before I pursue a DBA, and by then there could be new specializations that are more relevant to my career objectives.
I see getting a DBA as part of a progression toward publishing and consulting. I've considered becoming an adjunct, as well, in addition to my full time job. I don't see consulting or teaching happening until my youngest is closer to moving out. I lost enough time with my family getting to where I am now.
Another factor about getting a PhD/DBA that I am curious about is the impact of getting it from a big name school. Getting a DBA plays into a potential career path, but does getting it from a big name school provide a good ROI?
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1 reply by Jim Sass, BusD.
Jan 25, 2018 11:47 AM
Jim Sass, BusD.
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Aaron -- If you want to teach, go with the better school. As for a field of study, the "Strategy & Innovation" focus will net you a better job and make you a better sell for a teaching position. Good luck!
I must admit I am not considering either graduate degrees. Aaron's post does pose an intriguing queston. I look forward to the discussion. Saving Changes...
Olatunbosun DahunsiQuality Manager| Pacific Bolt Manufacturing LtdAbbotsford, British Columbia, Canada
I am considering pursuing DM in Project Management from Colorado Technical University. Saving Changes...
I would consider a DBA after I complete my current second masters degree, but not a PhD, as there is a possibility of being booted out and landing the MPhil which is a superfluous masters degree in my view. I mean what does one do with the MPhil? At least with the DBA there is a guaranteed path to completion (unless someone just throws in the towel) and it's more aligned with business professionals. Saving Changes...
I am currently doing my DBA at the University of South Alabama, while working full time as a project manager for ArcelorMittal. The DBA is structured very well and tailored specifically for people working full time. I would always recommend doing it, it is very enriching, even though it is a lot of work! However, my DBA is in Management and my research is on project management, not sure if there is a specific doctorate in project management. Saving Changes...
Patrick ConnallyEngagement Director| TeradataPhiladelphia, Pa, United States
Thanks for the responses everyone. I can tell everyone I haven't found a lot of PhD Project Management programs, but I did find one at Drexel University. THey do full, and part time, but I don't think virtual is on the table. I'm also considering a PhD in Organizational Leadership or Organizational Development. I think those degrees give a wider breadth an options for consulting and academia vs. Project Management. I would still like to study and incorporate Project Management into study, but that's all TBD.
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2 replies by Anh Lucci and Dione Carroll
Jan 03, 2018 9:16 AM
Anh Lucci
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Hi Patrick, not sure if you have contacted Drexel University for their PHD in PM program or not. I have, and they told me it's an online program. Hope this helps!
Oct 04, 2018 9:37 AM
Dione Carroll
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Looking forward to finding out more about their program as well!
Saving Changes...
John FarlikProgram & Project Management| SPX FLOWWaxhaw, Nc, United States
I earned my DBA from Capella University in May of 2016 with an emphasis in project management. There has been much discussion about an ROI and career progression. Here are some facts to consider.
- I used the GI Bill to fund my DBA. Therefore my investment into the program is MUCH lower than others would be - I am now an adjunct instructor for two universities. I teach MBA courses in operations/project and human resources management - You can expect about $2500 gross per 8-10 week course. It is a great way to supplement your income, and make some great connections - More importantly is the depth of knowledge and Doctoral level thinking that you are exposed to throughout the program. It makes me a better PM because of the dissertation process. You learn how to shape/scope a business problem, root it in the current literature, propose and defend a methodology, present findings & finally propose solutions. It's like a project in a lot of ways. - I was also able to network with others pursuing their DBAs in multiple disciplines which served to enhance my experience and increase my knowledge.
Bottom line: I'd do it again--but I did get about 4 hours of sleep a night for 3 1/2 year straight :)
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3 replies by Hong Li, Kevin Drake, and RAVI KUMAR BOLISETTY
Oct 25, 2017 8:52 PM
Hong Li
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You are a college prof. I would like your advise from you. what could I done to move up my career.
Apr 01, 2018 12:11 PM
Kevin Drake
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Thanks John, a lot of details.
Mar 06, 2026 1:44 PM
RAVI KUMAR BOLISETTY
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Hell John Farlik Greetings from Doha. I exploring for DBA in project management ( Oil & Gas projects) from Liberty University. It seems that i can transfer my Stanford LEAD credits and PMP cert. credits. Any idea on this 100% online university. Thanks in advance. with warm regards Ravi K Bolisetty
Thanks for the great input John. I am doing a second masters at the moment and just enrolled in a third which I will complete at the end of 2018. Any DBA of PhD aspirations for me will have to wait until 2019. I have been getting 4-5 hours sleep since I was in my teems. That's what insomnia does for you. It might help with the study load ;-)
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1 reply by John Farlik
Oct 26, 2017 9:23 AM
John Farlik
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Best of luck on your future goals Sante Vergini. Sounds like you are already on a successful path!
I am newly graduated from MBA degree 2017. I want to be a Project Management/management position , but it requires many years of experience. thinking about certificates and look for a new job as I am desperate, looking for a better income to cover educational loan. Anybody has any suggestion/recommendation for me. please reply...
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1 reply by Sante Delle-Vergini, PhD
Oct 25, 2017 10:56 PM
Sante Delle-Vergini, PhD
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Project management doesn't require many years of experience, it only requires your passion and interest, and a project to work on. Of course there are many skill levels for project managers, but we all have to start somewhere. You already have a great start with the MBA. You would understand management, leadership, budgets, communication and stakeholder engagement, so crucial in project management. If you have no PM experience before, then try and get yourself onto any project you can within whatever job role you have or will have. You could be a project team member, or a resource on a project, either way exposure to projects will give you the experience you need.
I earned my DBA from Capella University in May of 2016 with an emphasis in project management. There has been much discussion about an ROI and career progression. Here are some facts to consider.
- I used the GI Bill to fund my DBA. Therefore my investment into the program is MUCH lower than others would be - I am now an adjunct instructor for two universities. I teach MBA courses in operations/project and human resources management - You can expect about $2500 gross per 8-10 week course. It is a great way to supplement your income, and make some great connections - More importantly is the depth of knowledge and Doctoral level thinking that you are exposed to throughout the program. It makes me a better PM because of the dissertation process. You learn how to shape/scope a business problem, root it in the current literature, propose and defend a methodology, present findings & finally propose solutions. It's like a project in a lot of ways. - I was also able to network with others pursuing their DBAs in multiple disciplines which served to enhance my experience and increase my knowledge.
Bottom line: I'd do it again--but I did get about 4 hours of sleep a night for 3 1/2 year straight :)
You are a college prof. I would like your advise from you. what could I done to move up my career.
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1 reply by John Farlik
Oct 26, 2017 9:22 AM
John Farlik
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Hong Li,
Good question. Here are a couple ideas for your to consider.
1. Above all else, try to help people and deliver value. I have tried to "move up" by thinking of myself & it never works. When I truly give up & just try to help others I end up in a better place. That place may not be a new position or more money right away, but when I look back on my professional life there has always been that correlation.
2. If you aren't certified with a CAPM, PMP or ACP yet I would start a roadmap down that road. Those that say these certifications don't matter probably don't have one. The knowledge you gain, the people you meet and the job boards you can apply to all exponentially increase.
3. Network with local PMI chapters, business partners and associates. The best way to network in my experience is to see how you can help others in their businesses. Showing value to someone is the best way for them to recognize that the "future you" is greater than the "current you".
4. Be different, but be yourself. We all have to find out how to leverage our unique gifts to make a difference & be heard above the noise of the world. You'll know what it is for you when you find it. Sometimes I find it, lose it, then find it again. Be open to new ideas and take what works for you, discard the rest.
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