ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Doctoral Programs
Prepare for a career in research, university teaching, or executive leadership through advanced study.
Two Paths, One Research Community
Doctoral education is built on original research, close faculty mentorship, and scholarly inquiry that advances knowledge across business disciplines.
At Penn State Smeal College of Business, you'll choose between two doctoral pathways: the Ph.D., which prepares students for careers in academic research and university teaching, and the Executive Doctorate in Business Administration (D.B.A.), designed for experienced professionals who want to apply research to executive leadership.
Compare Doctoral Pathways
Traditional Ph.D.
Typical Duration: 5–7 years (full-time)
Primary Goal: Academic research and university faculty careers
Focus: Original research within a single business discipline
Capstone: Dissertation
Degree Awarded: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Executive D.B.A.
Typical Duration: 3 years (blended in-person and remote)
Primary Goal: Executive leadership, applied research, and teaching
Focus: Interdisciplinary business study centered on applying research to complex organizational challenges
Capstone: Applied research project
Degree Awarded: Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)
Doctoral Programs
Research That Shapes Business
Join a research community recognized for scholarship that advances business education and practice worldwide.
#25
Worldwide Research Performance
UT-Dallas Worldwide Business Research Rankings
Top 10
U.S. Publics, Research Published in Leading Business Journals
UT Dallas Top 100
AACSB
Distinguished Accreditation
Held by fewer than 6% of business schools worldwide
Featured Faculty Research
Dan Guide
Explores how reverse supply chain logistics improve both business performance and environmental sustainability.
Don Hambrick
Examines CEO activism and the growing role of executive leadership in public discourse.
Lisa Bolton
Investigates consumer behavior and decision-making in secondhand retail environments.
Take the Next Step
Explore admissions requirements, funding opportunities, and the application process for Smeal doctoral programs.
