Frequently Asked Questions

Thank you for your interest in the Coles DBA program. The best way to learn about our program is to attend an information session. We will begin recruiting for our second class in June of 2009. Please contact us at colesdba@kennesaw.edu to let us know of your interest, and we will notify you of the next scheduled information sessions. There is no charge to attend an information session, and you will learn more about the program including class schedules, curriculum, costs, and application process. You will also learn how a doctoral program is different from other degree programs you have attended, and you will be able to meet many of our faculty, as well as other potential students. Listed below are responses to some frequently asked questions:

How is the program structured?

The program structure covers three years as follows:

Year 1: three 5-day residencies and seven weekend sessions

Year 2: two 5-day residencies and eight weekend sessions

Year 3: two or three 5-day residencies and eight weekend sessions

In addition to dissertation research, the third year includes a Career Transition Strategies course. These residencies, which are Wednesday through Sunday, and weekend sessions are conducted at our campus in Kennesaw, Georgia. The residencies are augmented by “on-line” course work and significant virtual collaboration and mentoring with your mentor and our doctoral faculty.

Can you participate in the program even if you live far away from campus?

Yes. We will have students who will travel from a distance to attend, and the format of five-day residencies and weekend sessions accommodates the schedules of busy professionals. The program tuition does not include transportation or living expenses to attend classes.

Will the format be similar to an EMBA (Executive MBA) or traditional MBA?

No. The Coles DBA experience is quite different from the EMBA or MBA. Much of your effort will be in developing your own research skills and pursuing research problems of interest to you under the supervision and mentorship of doctoral faculty. While the program is cohort based, working in teams will be less a part of the learning experience than in an EMBA or MBA program. Instead, you will work in cohorts in the foundation and methods classes and then in smaller groups in the concentration areas. You will prepare individual papers in each course. Finally, you will conduct your dissertation research in supervised independent studies.

Despite the focus on developing your own research agenda, though, we do anticipate that you would develop strong relationships among students and with faculty mentors for the purpose of sharing ideas and providing and receiving feedback on your work. These "support groups" are essential to successful completion of the program and certainly will make the program more enjoyable.

What is the cost to begin the application process?

The initial application fee is $100 and it is non-refundable. There is an additional non-refundable $100 fee for applicants selected to attend a research workshop. Workshops are scheduled periodically.

Will classes be taped for downloads in the event individuals must travel for business reasons and not able to make a class?

No. Classes will not be taped. Given the nature and rigor of this program, missing classes is not recommended.

Will there be a choice of classes to enroll in each semester or will there be a preset curriculum to follow?

There is a mix of preset courses and electives. The first two years include both foundation and methods courses. Students will also begin working within a concentration area and may take courses in accounting, finance, management, or marketing. As you move through the second and third years, though, the program becomes much more self-directed through independent studies and working with faculty mentors and a dissertation supervisor and committee.

Would the fact that I do not have an MBA eliminate me from the program?

Not in all cases. Students admitted to the DBA program should typically have a master’s degree, preferably in business or a related topic. Applications are also encouraged from applicants with a master’s degree in a non-business discipline, but additional preparation and/or coursework may be required. Prior to admission, the DBA selection committee will carefully review your academic and professional record to determine any additional coursework that maybe required.

The web specifies a $24,000/year tuition cost. What additional costs should I plan/budget for?

These costs will vary based on your particular situation. Additional costs might include

• A computer to aid in your participation in the on-line and virtual components of the program and to support your research
• Regular access to the Internet
• Transportation costs to and from Kennesaw State to attend residencies or meet with faculty
• Accommodations in the Kennesaw area if you are not from the Atlanta region
• Books and other materials not provided by the program
• An acceptance deposit if you are accepted