Excelsior University’s first doctoral program opens to enrollment

Excelsior's Doctor of Business Administration program expands opportunities for experienced business leaders and lifelong learners.
smiling man outside an office building

ALBANY, N.Y. – Excelsior University’s first doctoral degree program is now accepting applications, marking a historic milestone in the institution’s 55-year history. The new Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program expands Excelsior’s academic offerings and provides experienced professionals with a pathway to the highest level of business education. Excelsior’s academic offerings and provides experienced professionals with a pathway to the highest level of business education. 

Designed for working professionals, the DBA combines flexible online coursework with two brief, impactful in-person residencies. Hosted in Excelsior’s home cities of Albany, New York, and St. Petersburg, Florida, these immersive experiences ensure valuable face-to-face networking, mentoring, and research support opportunities. The program equips students with advanced knowledge of business theories, research methods, and evidence-based practices, preparing them to become leaders in their fields. Learners can choose from DBA concentrations in Cybersecurity Operations, Data Analytics, Enterprise Risk Management, Finance and Accounting, Healthcare Management, Organizational Leadership, and Strategic Sustainability. 

Founded in 1971 with a mission to expand access to education, Excelsior has helped more than 200,000 students earn associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. The introduction of the DBA program represents the next step in Excelsior’s continued evolution.  

“Opening Excelsior’s first doctoral degree to enrollment is a landmark moment for Excelsior University and the learners we serve,” said Excelsior University Provost and Chief Academic Officer Chris Cassirer. “Students can now pursue a complete educational journey at Excelsior, from certificates through a doctoral degree in business. The DBA reflects Excelsior’s commitment to lifelong learning and professional advancement, and it is only the first of several doctoral offerings we envision for the future.”  

“The DBA builds on Excelsior’s longstanding commitment to providing practical, career-focused education for working professionals,” said Brian Allen, dean of Excelsior University’s School of Business. “By combining the flexibility of online learning with meaningful in-person collaboration and mentorship, the program prepares experienced professionals to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact in their workplaces and industries.”  

Eligible applicants must hold a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, have a minimum of five years of professional experience, and have experience managing people and/or projects.  

Applications are open now for the inaugural cohort of the DBA program, with courses beginning on Jan. 4, 2027. Interested students can complete an application and learn more at excelsior.edu.  

Media Contact Excelsior University:
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446
  

ABOUT EXCELSIOR UNIVERSITY 
Excelsior University is an accredited, not-for-profit online institution focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. Excelsior contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, Excelsior meets students where they are — academically and geographically — removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity.   

Excelsior is a not-for-profit university with a main campus in Albany, New York, and an educational site in St. Petersburg, Florida. Excelsior University’s academic programs are registered by the New York State Education Department, with additional licensing for Florida-based programs. 

Licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, Florida Department of Education (License No. 12928). Additional information regarding this institution may be obtained by contacting the Commission at 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, toll-free number: (888)-224-6684.