Program Overview
The University of North Alabama’s Executive Doctor of Business Administration program is designed for experienced professionals seeking to expand their leadership influence, address complex organizational challenges, and contribute meaningful insights to the business world. Through advanced study, applied research, and executive-level learning experiences, participants strengthen their ability to lead strategic initiatives and drive organizational success.
The program is offered through the Sanders College of Business and Technology, which holds AACSB International accreditation—an honor earned by fewer than six percent of business schools worldwide. Combined with UNA’s institutional accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the EDBA provides a high-quality academic experience grounded in excellence, innovation, and professional relevance.
Why Choose This Program?
- Apply research to real-world business challenges while advancing your professional expertise
- Learn within an AACSB-accredited business school recognized for academic excellence
- Expand your leadership influence through executive-level study and scholarly inquiry
Curriculum & Coursework
EDBA students engage with advanced business concepts, organizational leadership, strategic decision-making, and applied research methodologies. Advanced coursework is designed to help experienced professionals bridge theory and practice while generating insights that create value within their organizations and industries.
Sample Courses:
- DBA 701 Organizational Theory and Leadership
- DBA 710 Applied Business Research Methods
- DBA 720 Strategic Decision Making
- DBA 799 Dissertation Research
Career Paths & Outcomes
The Executive Doctor of Business Administration prepares experienced professionals and students to lead organizations, influence industry practices, and contribute to the advancement of business knowledge. Graduates are positioned to make a lasting impact through executive leadership, consulting, research, and organizational innovation.
Common Career Paths:
- Chief Executive Officer
- Executive Director
- Senior Business Consultant
- Organizational Strategist
- Corporate Executive
- Higher Education Administrator
- Business Researcher
- Entrepreneur
Student Experience
At UNA, EDBA students join a community of accomplished professionals committed to leadership, innovation, and lifelong learning. Through applied research, faculty mentorship, peer collaboration, and engagement with business and community partners, participants broaden their perspectives while strengthening their ability to lead in complex organizational environments.
Opportunities include:
- Faculty mentorship and dissertation guidance
- Applied research focused on real-world business challenges
- Collaboration with experienced professionals across industries
- Community outreach and business engagement initiatives
- Professional networking and leadership development opportunities
- Executive-level peer learning experiences
Meet the Faculty
Ms. Megan Alexander
EDBA Coordinator
malexander7@una.edu
Dr. Doug Barrett
Interim Dean, SCOBT
jdbarrett@una.edu
Dr. Jana Beaver
Associate Dean, SCOBT
jbeaver@una.edu
Dr. Nikki Bishop
Senior Academic Advisor
tmathews1@una.edu
Ms. Amanda Chadwell
Career Development Manager
achadwell@una.edu
Mr. Cody Crisp
Associate Director, Advising Services
ccrisp@una.edu
Ms. Karly Harper
Academic Support Specialist
kharper2@una.edu
Ms. Carrie Hibbett
Instructional Designer
chibbett@una.edu
Ms. Christie Nichols
Administrative Manager, Coordinator of Adult Learners
cnichols1@una.edu
Ms. Madison Prince
Coordinator, Experiential Learning & Social Media
mprince3@una.edu
Ms. Raysha Rhea
Associate Director, Marketing and Events
rldobbins@una.edu
Ms. Jennifer Tittle
Associate Director, Fiscal Operations
jrtittle@una.edu
Ms. Ning Wang
Director, SCOBT Operations
nwang@una.edu
[UNA: PLEASE CONFIRM THE ABOVE INFORMATION]
