Why Earn an Online Ph.D. in Applied Management and Decision Sciences?
While qualified master's degree holders fill many directors and corporate information officer positions, there is no harm in garnering a competitive edge. Moving into a top-level management position will require time and dedication. After all, such positions don't become available that often. When the opportunity does arrive, do you want to be held back by your lack of a piece of paper? The answer, for many, is a decided 'no.'
Occupational Outlook
Those possessing a degree in Applied Management and Decision Sciences are typically looking to move into upper level management positions. The amount of top executive positions is expected to grow at a rate significantly slower than the national average-only two percent between 2006 and 2016. The prestige and high pay have a tendency to attract many applicants, making experience and higher level degrees a necessity
Salary
In the world of business, it's hard to quantify just how much an executive could make. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median yearly income for chief executive officers was $145,600 in 2006; however, the numbers vary wildly and often include additional benefits not found in other positions. Executives for large companies could earn millions of dollars annually, in addition to stock options, bonuses and even housing allowances.
Required Classes
A doctorate program requires student to complete a research project and write and defend a dissertation based on the research findings. In addition, students complete a certain number of classroom hours. In a Ph.D. in Applied Management and Decision Sciences, specialization may range from accounting, finance, IS management, operational research or engineering management and therefore required courses will vary, but may include the following core classes:
- Theories of Organization Dynamics and Development
- Decision Theory and Analysis
- Models for Decision Making
- Research Methods
- Research Design
Skills Acquired
At the end of a Ph.D. program in Applied Management and Decision Sciences, a graduate will be able to analyze and implement decisions made at an organization's highest levels. These decisions are built upon fundamental skills, such as those developed in this program:
- Qualitative and quantitative skills in decision analysis
- Abilities in decision making and strategies
- Corporate finance and budgeting skills
