Latest News & Updates
Follow our journey as we build a world-class doctoral program. Here’s where you’ll find the latest updates, faculty insights, and opportunities to engage with the process.
- Forging the Future of Business Leadership: A Doctoral Program at the Dr. Sam Pack College of BusinessAt the Dr. Sam Pack College of Business (DSPCOB), we are proud to be a college that grows with the evolving demands of business and society. Our legacy of empowering …
What We’re Learning from Alumni & Student Surveys
Your voices are shaping our vision. Through student and alumni surveys, we’re learning what matters most in a doctoral program—and using those insights to build something exceptional.
Key Survey Findings:
What Alumni Told Us
- 84% would have considered a doctoral program at Tarleton if offered at the time
- Top motivations: career advancement, personal growth, desire to teach
- Strong interest in a hybrid/residency model
What Current Graduate Students Want
- Flexibility without compromising academic rigor
- Emphasis on applied research
- Clear pathway from master’s to doctoral study
Visualize the Data
“I’d love a program that lets me grow professionally without leaving my job.” – MBA Alumnus, Class of 2020
Join the Conversation
We’re still listening!
Want to share your perspective? Take our short feedback survey:
Take the Survey
Choosing the Right Path: DBA vs PhD vs Executive PhD (ePhD)
Not all doctoral degrees are created equal. Here’s how to decide which path best aligns with your professional goals, lifestyle, and research interests.
Doctoral Pathway Comparison Table
| Primary Focus | PhD in Business | Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) | Executive PhD (ePhD) |
| Primary Focus | Theory-driven research | Practice-oriented problem-solving | Applied research for executive decision-making |
| Ideal For | Aspiring professors, researchers | Mid-career professionals, consultants | Senior executives, business leaders |
| Format | Full-time, often residential | Part-time or hybrid | Hybrid with structured residencies |
| Capstone | Dissertation (theoretical focus) | Applied dissertation or project | Dissertation grounded in executive application |
| Duration | 4–6 years | 3–4 years | 3-4 years |
| Career Outcomes | Academic roles, research institutions | Consulting, corporate leadership, adjunct roles | Executive roles, board leadership, C-suite |
| Residency Requirement | Usually required | Varies by program | Short-term, intensive residencies |
How Tarleton’s Proposed Program Bridges the Gap
The rigor of a PhD with the flexibility of a DBA- Designed for working professionals who want research credibility without pausing their careers
- Structured residencies for immersive learning and connection
- A focus on applicable research with real-world executive impact
Tarleton’s proposed Executive PhD blends the best of both worlds:
Think: academic excellence without giving up your day job.Why We Believe in Residency Requirements
Still unsure which doctoral path fits your future?
Let us help you explore your options.
The Doctoral Program Proposal: Vision, Mission, and Details
Residency is where transformation happens. Our hybrid doctoral model is built on intentional, in-person experiences that foster deep learning, meaningful connection, and personal growth.
Residencies are not just logistical checkpoints—they’re catalysts for transformation.
While our program is primarily hybrid, the structured residency model is a foundational part of the experience. Residencies take place 2–3 times per semester and offer:
- Intensive learning: Deep dives into research methods, dissertation design, and thought leadership
Mentorship: Dedicated time with faculty mentors, dissertation chairs, and research peers
Connection: Build lasting relationships with fellow doctoral candidates from various industries
Professional development: Guest speakers, leadership seminars, and executive roundtables
“You can only go so far behind a screen. Our residency weekends are where minds meet, problems are solved, and momentum is built.”
— Dr.David Cavazos, Faculty Program Coordinator,
| Day | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Friday PM | Welcome Reception + Cohort Networking |
| Saturday | Research Workshop + Faculty Roundtables |
| Sunday | Dissertation Clinics + Guest Lectures |
Residency FAQ Accordion
Stay Updated – Be Part of the Journey
Join our growing community of future scholars, alumni, and business leaders. Stay in the loop as we shape the next chapter of doctoral education at Tarleton.
Share Your Voice
We want to hear from you!
Have a suggestion, question, or vision for this program? Share it with us.
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Milestone Timeline Snapshot
Upcoming Events & Milestones:
- Alumni Survey Results Published – May 2025
- Virtual Town Hall – June 2025
Proposal Submitted to University – Fall 2025- First Cohort Application Opens – Early 2026