DBA Spec. in General Management from Golden Gate Univ.

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from Golden Gate University, San Francisco is a globally recognized doctoral program designed for working professionals seeking to advance to top leadership positions. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission, this program offers a scholar-practitioner approach focused on solving real-world business challenges while developing advanced research capabilities. With five specialized concentrations to choose from and personalized 1:1 research mentorship, students gain the expertise to drive transformation through actionable research and strategic leadership. The program provides the flexibility of online learning with an optional San Francisco campus immersion, making it ideal for balancing career advancement with academic achievement.

Instructors:

Mickey P. McGee

Anthony deLeon

English

Not specified

Course Start Date:
15th May'2025
Applications Deadline:
15th May'2025
Duration:
36 Months

₹ 10,65,000

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Overview

Earn a globally recognized Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree from Golden Gate University (GGU), San Francisco - a prestigious US institution with over 120 years of educational excellence. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission, this program represents the highest academic credential in business education, designed specifically for working professionals seeking to advance to senior leadership positions. The 36-month online curriculum combines advanced theoretical knowledge with practical applications across five specialized concentrations: Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, Leadership and Strategy, and General Management. Students benefit from personalized 1:1 research mentorship, access to cutting-edge research tools, and the option of a San Francisco campus immersion experience. Upon graduation, you'll join a distinguished global alumni network of 70,000+ professionals while earning the coveted "Dr." title that elevates your authority and influence in the business world.

Why Business Administration (DBA / DBM)?

The Golden Gate University DBA program offers several compelling advantages that set it apart from other doctoral options: Prestigious US Accreditation: Earn a doctorate from a WASC-accredited American university with 120+ years of legacy, also recognized by AACSB International and WES for global credential recognition. Flexible Learning for Working Professionals: Complete your doctorate in as little as 3 years with a schedule designed for busy executives, allowing you to maintain your career while earning your degree. Specialized Concentration Options: Customize your doctoral education with focused tracks in Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, Leadership and Strategy, or General Management to align with your career goals. Silicon Valley Business Connection: Benefit from GGU's proximity to Silicon Valley and San Francisco's innovation ecosystem, with faculty who bring both academic credentials and industry experience. Career Advancement Potential: Join the ranks of GGU alumni who hold C-suite positions across the globe, commanding substantially higher salaries (CEO salaries in India range from INR 9L to 41.7L; in the US from $310K to $579K). Optional Campus Immersion: Enhance your experience with an optional San Francisco campus visit, connecting with faculty and fellow doctoral candidates in one of the world's leading business innovation hubs.

What does this course have to offer?

Key Highlights

120+ Years of Legacy
70,000+ Alumni Network
Earn a Doctorate from a Premier US University
Customize Your DBA Degree with 5 Specialized Concentrations
Receive Personalized 1:1 Research Mentorship
Optional San Francisco Campus Immersion
No GMAT/GRE - Your Experience Matters Most

Who is this programme for?

C-suite executives seeking academic credentials
Senior managers aspiring to leadership roles
Business consultants aiming to enhance expertise
Professionals with 5+ years of experience
Industry experts seeking to become thought leaders
Entrepreneurs looking to strengthen business knowledge
Mid-career professionals targeting higher pay and recognition

Minimum Eligibility

Bachelor's degree with minimum 55% marks and 5 years of work experience, or Master's degree with at least 55% marks (no experience required)

Who is the programme for?

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program from Golden Gate University follows a structured admissions process designed to identify candidates with strong academic backgrounds and significant professional experience. Eligibility requirements include a Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 55% marks and 5 years of full-time work experience after graduation. Alternatively, candidates with Bachelor's scores below 55% must have either a Master's degree with at least 55% marks (no experience required) or a two-year Post Graduate Diploma equivalent to a Master's with verification from a recognized body (no experience required). The application process consists of three straightforward steps: submitting an application through the GGU portal, receiving an offer letter if shortlisted, and reserving your program spot by paying a block amount of INR 44,999. The academic structure of the program is built around foundations in doctoral writing and research methods, specialized concentration courses in your chosen field, and the dissertation phase where you'll develop original research addressing real-world business challenges.

Important Dates

Selection process

How to apply?

Curriculum

The Doctor of Business Administration curriculum at Golden Gate University is designed to develop both advanced research capabilities and practical business expertise across several key areas. The program begins with a foundation in essential doctoral skills, including Doctoral Writing, Quantitative Research Methods, and Qualitative Research Methods. These courses develop the advanced research skills necessary to conduct and present doctoral-level research effectively. Students then select one of five concentration areas: Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, Leadership and Strategy, or General Management. The Finance concentration includes courses such as Corporate Finance, Financial Theory and Applications, and International Finance. The Marketing concentration covers Marketing Management, Consumer Behavior, and Digital Marketing and New Media. The Leadership and Strategy track explores Leadership Theory, Research, and Application, Leadership Complex Change, and Strategic Leadership. Business Analytics concentration includes Data as an Asset, Operational Performance Management, and Application of AI in Solving Business Problems. Throughout the program, students work on their dissertation, culminating in original research that addresses a significant business challenge in their field of expertise.

There are 6 semesters in this course

The DBA program from Golden Gate University is structured to provide a comprehensive business education at the doctoral level. The curriculum consists of three distinct components: Foundation Courses (DBA 800, 801, 802): These courses establish essential research skills through Doctoral Writing, Quantitative Research Methods, and Qualitative Research Methods. Topics include research problem identification, literature review, research methodologies, data collection and analysis techniques. Concentration Courses: Students select one of five specialized tracks: Finance: Courses include Corporate Finance (DBA 820), Financial Theory and Applications (DBA 821), and International Finance, covering corporate governance, risk assessment, portfolio theory, derivatives, and international markets. Marketing: Explores Marketing Management, Consumer Behavior, and Digital Marketing with topics ranging from consumer psychology to digital campaign strategies. Business Analytics: Focuses on Data as an Asset, Operational Performance Management, and AI applications for business solutions. Leadership and Strategy: Examines leadership theories, managing complex change, and strategic decision-making for organizations. General Management: Provides a broader perspective across multiple business disciplines. Dissertation Development: Throughout the program, students work on an original research project that addresses real-world business challenges, culminating in a dissertation defense that demonstrates their expertise and contribution to the field.

DBA 800: Foundation

DBA 801: Foundation

DBA 802: Foundation

DBA 820: Concentration

DBA 821: Concentration

Operational Performance Management

Programme Length

The Doctor of Business Administration program from Golden Gate University is designed to be completed in 36 months, allowing working professionals to balance their studies with career responsibilities. The program structure enables students to finish in as little as 3 years, with a flexible format that accommodates professional commitments. The curriculum is delivered through a combination of online coursework and optional on-campus experiences, with students typically following this timeline: Foundation courses in research methodology (first year), Concentration courses in the chosen specialization (second year), and Dissertation development and defense (third year). This structure ensures a comprehensive doctoral education that can be achieved within a reasonable timeframe for busy executives.

Tuition Fee

The Doctor of Business Administration program from Golden Gate University, San Francisco is priced at INR 10,65,000 (no taxes applicable) for the standard program without the immersion experience. An enhanced version including the San Francisco immersion experience is also available at a different price point. The program offers flexible payment options including an annual installment plan and 12-month no-cost EMI options for each installment. Students who choose to pay the full amount upfront receive an additional fee waiver. This investment covers academic resources, faculty instruction, research mentorship, and access to GGU's global alumni network. The return on investment is reflected in the significantly higher earning potential for DBA graduates, with CEOs in India earning INR 9L to 41.7L annually and their US counterparts commanding USD 310k (INR 2.6Cr) to USD 579k (INR 4.88Cr).

Fee Structure

Payment options

Financing options

Financial Aid

Learning Experience

The Doctor of Business Administration program from Golden Gate University offers a comprehensive online learning experience designed specifically for working professionals. The program features flexible scheduling that allows students to balance their education with career demands, enabling completion in as little as three years. Students benefit from access to extensive digital resources including research libraries, case studies, and learning tools maintained by a university with over 120 years of academic excellence. The curriculum incorporates practical application of concepts, enabling immediate implementation of learning in professional settings. Sophisticated educational technology supports collaborative projects, virtual discussions, and interactive learning experiences. The program is enhanced by personalized 1:1 research mentorship and optional networking opportunities through the San Francisco immersion experience. Graduates join a prestigious global alumni network of 70,000+ professionals, gaining lifetime access to continued professional development resources.

University Experience

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Digital Leadership from Golden Gate University (GGU), San Francisco, offers a globally recognized, WASC-accredited degree designed for senior professionals. With over 120 years of legacy, GGU combines academic rigor with practical business leadership through experienced faculty, advanced research tools, and immersive learning in global innovation hubs. Students gain access to 1:1 mentorship, a global alumni network, and flexible online learning, with optional campus immersion. The program emphasizes real-world application, industry engagement, and leadership development, making it ideal for C-suite executives and senior leaders aiming to elevate their impact.

Word from the Directors

Dr. Mick Mcgee

Director, DBA Program

As Associate Dean and DBA Program Director at Golden Gate University, I bring over 21 years of academic and leadership experience to this transformative program. Our DBA is designed to develop scholar-practitioners who can apply rigorous research to solve complex business challenges. Through personalized mentorship and a flexible format, we've created a doctoral journey that accommodates the demands of executive life while delivering the highest academic credentials. Join us to elevate your expertise and become part of the next generation of business thought leaders.

About the University

Golden Gate University (GGU), established in 1901, is a private university located in San Francisco, California. It specializes in professional education and caters to working adults through its schools of law, business, taxation, technology, accounting, and undergraduate studies. GGU offers 4 undergraduate degrees and 18 graduate programs, including doctoral degrees. Known for its emphasis on hands-on learning and experiential education, GGU prepares students to succeed in dynamic industries such as law, finance, technology, and business management. The university fosters a culture of entrepreneurship and lifelong learning while leveraging its urban location to provide students with access to Silicon Valley and Fortune 500 companies. With over 68,000 alumni worldwide, GGU is committed to delivering affordable and accessible education.

#2285

Other Ranking globally

#627

Other Ranking in North America

#573

Other Ranking in United States

Affiliation & Recognition

BCI

WASC Senior College and University Commission

Career services

Golden Gate University offers robust career services aimed at empowering students and alumni to achieve their professional goals. The Career Center provides personalized career consulting sessions that include resume reviews, LinkedIn profile optimization, interview preparation workshops, and job search strategies. Students benefit from networking events with industry leaders, career fairs, and access to job postings through GGU Careers. The Career Center also facilitates internships across various industries such as law, taxation, accounting, business management, and technology. GGU collaborates with leading companies in the San Francisco Bay Area and Silicon Valley to connect students with impactful career opportunities. Its partnership with upGrad further extends career coaching services globally. Alumni continue to benefit from career resources even after graduation through mentorship programs and professional growth workshops. Additionally, GGU’s Helen Diller Center for Veterans of U.S. Military Service provides specialized support for veterans transitioning into civilian careers.

300+

Number of Corporate Partnerships

Top Recruiters

Course Start Date:
15th May'2025
Applications Deadline:
15th May'2025
Duration:
36 Months

₹ 10,65,000

Add to compare

Whom you will learn from?

Learn from top industry experts who bring real-world experience and deep knowledge to every lesson. The instructors are dedicated to help you achieve your goals with practical insights and hands-on guidance.

Instructors

Mickey P. McGee

Director of DBA Program and Professor of Public Administration

Dr. Mickey P. McGee, DPA, is the Director of the Doctoral Program in Business Administration and a Professor of Public Administration at Golden Gate University’s Ageno School of Business. With a background as a retired U.S. Army Officer, he brings extensive leadership experience from various global military assignments and post-military roles in public service, academia, and corporate talent management. Dr. McGee holds a BA in Political Science from UC Davis and both an MPA and DPA from GGU. He teaches in the Executive MPA and DBA programs, and his academic interests include public-private partnerships, performance management, and executive leadership development. A dedicated community advocate, he has served on multiple nonprofit boards and offers seminars in communication, conflict resolution, and disability awareness.

Anthony deLeon

Senior Adjunct Professor of Marketing

Dr. Anthony deLeon is a Senior Adjunct Professor in the Ageno School of Business at Golden Gate University, where he teaches marketing management and strategy in the MBA and executive education programs. A distinguished graduate of GGU’s Doctor of Business Administration program, his award-winning dissertation was later published in the Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science. Dr. deLeon brings over 18 years of management consulting experience, having advised more than 50 corporations on marketing strategy, product development, and IT management. As a partner at Accenture and a principal at Booz-Allen & Hamilton, he led major engagements across multiple industries and global regions. He holds an MBA from Wharton and an AB in Applied Mathematics from Harvard, graduating with top honors and memberships in Phi Beta Kappa and Beta Gamma Sigma.

Testimonials

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Faculties

These are the expert instructors who will be teaching you throughout the course. With a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience, they’re here to guide, inspire, and support you every step of the way. Get to know the people who will help you reach your learning goals and make the most of your journey.

Instructors

Mickey P. McGee

Director of DBA Program and Professor of Public Administration

Anthony deLeon

Senior Adjunct Professor of Marketing

Frequently asked questions

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about this course. We aim to provide clear and concise answers to help you better understand the course content, structure, and any other relevant information. If you have any additional questions or if your question is not listed here, please don't hesitate to reach out to our support team for further assistance.

What is the difference between a DBA and a PhD?

What are the admission requirements for the GGU DBA program?

What concentrations are available in the program?

Is the Golden Gate University DBA recognized globally?

How is the program structured?

What is the San Francisco immersion experience?

What career outcomes can I expect after completing the DBA?