Online DBA Program Ranks Third Nationally as First Graduating Cohort Nears
The University of La Verne’s innovative Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program has achieved national recognition, ranking third in Forbes Advisor’s list of the Best Online DBA Degrees of 2024. This prestigious honor arrives ahead of the first cohort’s graduation this spring, marking a significant milestone for a program that only began a few years ago.
Led by Program Director Zhen Zhang, the three-year hybrid program combines online and on-campus instruction, making it accessible to working professionals seeking to advance their careers in upper management, consulting, research, or academia. The DBA curriculum integrates applied research with practical skills, designed to foster critical thinking, holistic problem-solving, and interdisciplinary knowledge. The program prepares students to address real-world challenges, create solutions for complex business issues, and drive organizational growth and sustainability.
“This is a tremendous recognition for our program, especially so early on,” said College of Business Dean Emmeline de Pillis. “We’re excited to see how our graduates will impact their fields as they step into the next phase of their careers.”
The DBA program offers two distinct tracks — a bilingual English/Mandarin cohort, offered in partnership with THH Zhidao Education for senior executives in China, and a domestic track, which recently gained F-1 visa eligibility to welcome international students. Both tracks maintain the same curriculum, though the bilingual track is taught in English and Mandarin to accommodate professionals in China.
Students also have the opportunity to gain practical hands-on experience through co-authored research and faculty mentorship. After finishing the initial two years, students may also become eligible for a Master of Arts in Business Administration degree, enhancing career prospects.
Prospective students are encouraged to apply on a rolling basis. For more information, visit business.laverne.edu/dba.
