Skip to Content
  • Canvas
  • HiveConnect
  • Baker Mail
  • My Baker
Baker College
  • (855) 487-7888
  • Apply
  • Visit
  • Request Info
Apply Visit Get Started
  • Programs and Degrees
    • Bachelor’s
      • Bachelor Degrees
      • Areas of study
        • Health Science
          • Health Science Bachelor’s
            • Healthcare Administration
            • See All Health Science Degrees
        • Business
          • Business bachelor’s
            • Accounting
            • Business Administration
            • Finance
            • Human Resource Management
            • Supply Chain Management
            • Management
            • Marketing
            • See All Business Degrees
        • IT & Engineering
          • IT & Engineering Bachelor’s
            • Computer Science (Computer Programming)
            • Computer Science (Data Analytics)
            • Game Software Development
            • Information Systems (Information Assurance)
            • Information Systems (Project Management)
            • Information Systems (Web Development)
            • Information Technology and Cybersecurity
            • See All IT & Engineering Degrees
        • Nursing
          • Nursing Bachelor’s
            • Nursing Traditional
            • Accelerated Nursing
            • Nursing (Post-Licensure)
            • See All Nursing Degrees
        • Social Science
          • Social Science bachelor’s
            • Criminal Justice (Criminal Justice Studies)
            • Criminal Justice (Law Enforcement)
            • Human Services
            • Psychology
            • See All Social Science Degrees
        • Liberal Arts & Sciences
          • Liberal Arts and Sciences bachelor’s
            • General Science
            • General Studies
            • See All Liberal Arts and Sciences Degrees
        • Education
          • Education bachelor’s
            • Early Childhood Education
            • See All Education Degrees
        • See Full Program List
        • See Minors List
    • Master’s
      • Master Degrees
      • Areas of Study
        • Business
          • Business Master’s
            • Accounting
            • Business Administration
            • Business Intelligence
            • Finance
            • Healthcare Management
            • Human Resource Management
            • Information Systems
            • Leadership Studies
            • See All Business Degrees
        • IT & Engineering
          • It & Engineering MASTER’S
            • Information Systems (MS)
            • See All IT & Engineering Degrees
        • Nursing
          • Nursing MASTER’S
            • Nursing Administration
            • Nursing Education
            • See All Nursing Degrees
        • Occupational Therapy
          • Occupational Therapy MASTER’S
            • Occupational Therapy (MSOT)
            • See All Occupational Therapy Degrees
        • Social Science
          • Social Science MASTER’S
            • Industrial/Organizational Psychology
            • See All Social Science Degrees
        • See Full Program List
    • Doctoral
      • Doctoral Degrees
      • Areas of Study
        • Business
          • Business doctorates
            • Business Administration (DBA)
            • Business Administration – ABD
            • See All Business Degrees
        • See Full Program List
    • Associate
      • Associate Degrees
      • Areas of Study
        • Health Science
          • HEALTH SCIENCE ASSOCIATE
            • Cardiac Sonography
            • Diagnostic Sonography
            • Health Information Technology
            • Occupational Therapy Assistant
            • Physical Therapist Assistant
            • Radiologic Technology
            • Surgical Technology
            • Veterinary Technology
            • See All Health Science Degrees
        • IT & Engineering
          • It & Engineering Associate
            • Mechatronics
            • See All IT & Engineering Degrees
        • Social Science
          • Social Science Associate
            • Criminal Justice (Criminal Justice Studies)
            • Criminal Justice (Law Enforcement)
            • See All Social Science Degrees
        • Liberal Arts and Sciences
          • Liberal Arts and Sciences Associate
            • General Studies
            • See All Liberal Arts and Sciences Degrees
        • Education
          • Education Associate
            • Early Childhood Education
            • See All Education Degrees
      • Affiliated Programs
        • Culinary
          • Culinary Associate
            • Baking and Pastry
            • Culinary Arts
            • Food and Beverage Management
            • See All Culinary Degrees
        • Auto Diesel
          • Auto Diesel Associate
            • Automotive Services Technology
            • Diesel Service Technology
            • See All Auto Diesel Degrees
        • See Full Program List
    • Certificates
      • Certificates
      • Areas of Study
        • Health Science
          • Health Science Certificates
            • Medical Assistant
            • See All Health Science Degrees
      • Affiliated Programs
        • Auto Diesel
          • Auto Diesel Certificates
            • Automotive Services Technology
            • Diesel Service Technology
            • Welding
            • See All Auto Diesel Degrees
        • See Full Program List
    • Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning
      • Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning
      • AREAS OF STUDY
        • Cannabis
          • Cannabis Courses and Certificates
            • Your Cannabis Career Starts Here
        • Full List of Programs
  • Admissions
    • Admissions
    • STUDENTS
      • Transfer
      • Graduate
      • Adult
      • Active Duty Military
      • Veteran
      • Returning
      • High School
      • International
    • OVERVIEW
      • Applying to Baker
      • Undergraduate Application Process & Requirements
      • Graduate Application Process & Requirements
    • Special Programs
      • Health Science Direct Admissions
      • RunningStart
      • View Admissions Department Home
  • Tuition & Aid
    • Tuition & Aid
    • PAYING FOR SCHOOL
      • Tuition
      • Net Price Calculator
    • Ways to Save
      • BeFree Tuition Guarantee
      • College Credit for Work and Life Experience
      • Financial Aid
      • Grants
      • Scholarships
      • See Tuition & Aid
  • Student Life & Services
    • Student life & Services
    • Student Services
      • Student Success and Engagement
      • Dean of Students
      • CARE Team
      • OneStop
      • Academic Resource Center
      • Learning Support Services
      • Disability Services
      • Bookstore
    • Life on Campus
      • Student Life
      • Esports
      • Housing
      • Campus Safety
  • News and Events
    • News and Events
    • At Baker College
      • Newsroom
      • Blog
      • Events
  • About Baker College
    • About Baker College
    • Explore
      • Office of the President
      • Accreditation
      • History
      • Nonprofit
      • The Baker College Bees
      • Careers at Baker College
      • Modern Workplace@BC
      • Alumni
      • Get to Know Us
  • Tools & Resources
    • Tools
    • Academic Resources
      • Academic Calendar (Old)
      • Catalog
      • Full Course List
      • Student Handbook
    • Job Readiness Resources
      • Career Services
      • Transcripts
      • Handshake Hiring Program
      • See All Tools & Resources
  • Campuses
    • Campuses
    • Michigan Campuses
      • Cadillac
      • Muskegon
      • Owosso
      • Jackson
      • Royal Oak
      • Campus Maps
      • See All Learning Options
    • Online Campuses
      • Baker Online
      • Online Live
    • Affiliated Institutions
      • Culinary Institute of Michigan
      • Auto / Diesel Institute
  • Current Students
    • Canvas
    • HiveConnect
    • Baker Mail
    • My Baker
Doctorate of Business Administration

Business Administration (DBA-ABD)

  • Academics
  • Graduate Studies
  • College of Business
  • Business Administration (DBA-ABD)

Online DBA – All But Dissertation (ABD) Program

Many doctoral students do not graduate after starting their programs. Withdrawal often occurs in the transition from coursework to the dissertation phase. Are you stuck in a doctoral program? Do you want to earn your doctoral degree? The All But Dissertation (ABD) option of the online DBA program at Baker College is tailored for experienced professionals who have previously undertaken doctoral studies and are seeking to complete their degrees efficiently. This option offers two tracks: the Dissertation Track and the Capstone Project Track. Both tracks are designed to facilitate the completion of the doctorate in 1.5 years by earning 25 semester credits, ensuring you are well-prepared to make impactful contributions in your field.

Is the DBA – All But Dissertation (ABD) Program Right For You?

  • Do you have at least 27 semester credits completed (including courses in statistics and research methodologies) in a doctoral program at a regionally accredited institution within the last seven years?
  • Do you want to become a thought leader or innovator in your field, whether in corporate, nonprofit, government, manufacturing, healthcare, education, energy, consulting, finance, technology, retail, or other sectors?
  • Do you aspire to step into senior-level positions such as CEO, CIO, vice president, or president? 
  • Are you ready to elevate your own business by effectively overcoming key challenges and unlocking new growth opportunities? 
  • Would you like to share your knowledge and inspire the next generation by teaching at the college level? 
  • Do you want to achieve personal milestones and become a role model for your children, grandchildren, and the community, recognizing that this is just as important as your professional development?

If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, then the DBA – All But Dissertation (ABD)  program at Baker College is the perfect opportunity for you to achieve your professional goals and make a lasting impact in the business world.

Which Track Should I Choose?

You will have the flexibility to choose between completing a dissertation in the Dissertation Track or developing a capstone project in the Capstone Project Track.

DBA – Dissertation Track

The Dissertation Track culminates in a research-based dissertation that addresses a real-world problem faced by today’s business leaders. Students will engage in independent research using sound research methodologies, supported by faculty mentorship, to develop original knowledge that contributes both theoretically and practically to the field of business.

DBA – Capstone Project Track

The Capstone Project Track culminates in a substantial capstone project that addresses a significant business challenge and provides actionable recommendations to overcome it. Students will develop skills to solve complex real-world business problems using robust research methodologies. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to choose a concentration by taking or transferring MBA courses, allowing for a tailored educational experience that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application.

Accredited Schools Online logo

Top Online Business Ph.D. and DBA Programs

Ph.D.s.me logo

#2 Best Online DBA Programs

Circular logo reading "Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Programs: Intelligent Approved, 2024" with a book and torch in middle.

#13 Best Online DBA Programs by www.intelligent.com

At a glance
52

Credit Hours
(27 credits transferred and 25 credits earned at Baker)

1.5

Years

DBA-ABD Dissertation Track Curriculum
DBA-ABD Capstone Project Track Curriculum

Learn Your Way

Doctorate of Business Administration ABD classes are taught exclusively through Baker Online.

Learn More
Email Print
  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on Twitter
  • Share on Linkedin

Why Should I Choose the DBA - All But Dissertation (ABD) Program at Baker College?

By choosing the DBA - All But Dissertation (ABD) program at Baker College, you are investing in a transformative educational experience that empowers you to achieve your professional goals while making a meaningful impact in your field.

  • 1.5-Year Completion: Complete the DBA - All But Dissertation (ABD) Program program in just 1.5 years or less. The well-designed program ensures that you will progress steadily toward your degree.
  • Fully Online Flexibility: Our DBA - All But Dissertation (ABD) program is 100% online, providing you with the flexibility to balance your work, personal life, and academic pursuits seamlessly. This format allows you to learn at your own pace while managing your other commitments.
  • Structured Dissertation/Capstone Project: The dissertation or capstone project is thoughtfully divided into manageable segments, accompanied by realistic timelines. This design helps you stay organized and motivated, making the research process more approachable and less overwhelming.
  • Exceptional Faculty Mentors: Students will benefit from the guidance of exceptional faculty mentors who hold doctoral degrees and bring extensive industry and research experience to the table. Whether you choose the Dissertation Track or the Capstone Project Track, these dedicated mentors will provide personalized support and insights throughout your DBA journey, enhancing your learning experience and equipping you with the knowledge and skills needed to achieve your professional goals.
  • Comprehensive Support System: Experience a robust support network designed to empower your academic journey, featuring a dedicated program director, knowledgeable academic advisors, and access to extensive library and writing services. This comprehensive support system ensures that you have the essential resources and guidance needed to thrive and excel in your studies, paving the way for your success in the DBA program.
  • Standardized Templates for Success: Our program provides standardized templates to streamline your research and analysis process. This helps you organize your ideas and focus on developing your insights, ultimately enhancing the quality of your work.

ABD Doctorate Curriculum

Our online DBA - All But Dissertation (ABD) program is a 1.5-year program consisting of 27 credit hours (including courses in statistics and research methodologies) transferred from your previous institution and 25 credit hours taken at Baker College. Students who choose the dissertation track will complete their dissertations in a series of courses. Students who choose the capstone project track will have the opportunity to choose a concentration with 3 MBA courses and complete their projects in another series of courses. 

DBA-ABD Dissertation Track Curriculum
DBA-ABD Capstone Project Track Curriculum

Sample Courses

Prospectus Development

Description
This course will initiate the dissertation or capstone project research journey for students. They will engage in a comprehensive process to develop their dissertation or capstone project prospectus. This includes identifying a significant research problem, articulating the research purpose, and formulating relevant research questions and/or hypotheses. Students will also review literature related to their area of inquiry, select appropriate research methodologies, and highlight the significance of their work. By the end of this course, students will have a well-structured prospectus that lays the groundwork for their dissertation or capstone project.

Doctoral Specialization Seminar I (Dissertation Track Only)

Description
In this initial doctoral seminar, you will complete Chapter I of your dissertation proposal - Introduction and Statement of Problem. Specifically, you will investigate a topic of your choice within your selected field of study. Chapter I includes a definition of the research problem, identification of the research questions, a description of the purpose of the study, and an explanation about its significance. A brief summary of the literature review as well as a description of the research methodology, identification of relevant terminology, and limitations will be included. The seminar will include the development of a bibliography of major theorists or theories in the field of study.

DBA Capstone Project I (Capstone Project Track Only)

Description
The DBA Capstone Project course series offers students a structured framework for addressing real-world business challenges through applied research. Students will establish a solid foundation for their project by defining a business-related problem, articulating the research purpose, developing research questions, and conducting a literature review to identify supporting theories and evidence. They will then develop a robust research methodology. Following this, students will collect and analyze relevant data. Finally, students will draw actionable insights from their research to propose solutions to the identified business problems. This capstone project experience provides students with an excellent opportunity to develop critical research skills and empowers them to make meaningful contributions to the field of business.

DBA - ABD Admission Requirements

To apply to the Dissertation Track or the Capstone Project Track of the Doctor of Business Administration - All But Dissertation (DBA - ABD) option, you simply need to submit an official transcript verifying that you have completed a minimum of 27 semester credits or equivalent (including courses in statistics and research methodologies) in a doctoral program at a regionally accredited institution within the last seven years, along with a resume detailing your educational and professional experience. You may also submit a writing sample from your previous doctoral work.

All But Dissertation Program Outcomes

Our quality-focused, market-driven, and rigorous DBA - ABD curricula will establish and enhance core business knowledge and the ability to anticipate and react to societal changes, as well as provide students with technological proficiency, the ability to make ethical decisions, and the communication skills that embody the professional acumen graduates need to make positive contributions to their chosen fields.

View Outcomes & Performances

Accreditation

External peer review is the primary means of assuring and improving the quality of higher education institutions and programs in the United States. This recognition is accomplished through program accreditation, approval or certification.

The College of Business at Baker College has received specialized accreditation for its business programs through the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) located at 11960 Quivira Road in Overland Park, Kansas, USA. For a list of accredited programs please view our IACBE member status page.

International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) logo - Member with Accredited Programs

This page was last revised on March 26, 2025.
  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on Twitter
  • Share on Linkedin
Email Print

On Campus Unavailable

Core courses for this degree program are not offered on campus.

For those interested, a selection of general education and prerequisite courses are available on campus each semester.

View campus locations

Available on Baker Online

Courses for this degree program are available through Baker Online.

100% online, this format offers flexible scheduling with 8-week semesters

Baker Online

Unavailable on Online Live

Core courses for this degree program are not offered through Online Live.

For those interested, a selection of general education and prerequisite courses are available through Online Live each semester.

Online Live
We're Here to Help
Ready to take the next step?

Contact us today to speak with a
Baker admissions expert.

By clicking Submit, I give Baker College my consent to use automated technology to call, text, and email me regarding educational services, using the contact information above, including my wireless number. This consent is not required to receive educational services.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 

Admissions

  • Apply
  • Online
  • Undergraduate Admissions
  • Graduate Admissions
  • Tuition & Aid
  • International Students
  • Transfer Students
  • Military Friendly
  • Running Start

About Baker

  • Schedule a Visit
  • Get to Know Us
  • Mission and Core Values
  • Accreditation
  • Newsroom
  • Events
  • Blog
  • Careers

Tools & Resources

  • Request Info
  • My Baker
  • Baker Mail
  • Bookstore
  • Academic Resource Center
  • Canvas

Contact Us

1020 S Washington St, Owosso, MI 48867

Phone: (800) 964-4299

(855)487-7888

Facebook YouTube Twitter Instagram LinkedIn
  • Disclosure of Consumer Information
  • Policies And Procedures
  • Privacy Policy
  • Title IX Policy
  • Annual Security Report
  • ASR Health Benefits: MRF (TiC Rule)
Baker College
Baker College

Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. An equal opportunity affirmative action institution. An approved institution of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) and the Midwestern Higher Education Compact (MHEC).

Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning courses may or may not be eligible for college credit, and these courses are not eligible for financial aid or Baker College scholarships. Baker College’s Higher Learning Commission accreditation does not encompass Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning courses.

If you encounter an accessibility issue using this page, please let us know.

© 2025 All rights reserved. Baker College