A Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) is a prestigious program designed for senior professionals aiming to make significant contributions to business knowledge. One of the most crucial elements of a DBA is selecting a dissertation topic that is relevant, practical, and impactful.

In 2025, business landscapes will continue evolving, driven by digital transformation, sustainability, and leadership innovations. This blog highlights the top 10 research topics for a DBA dissertation that align with current trends and future business needs.

1. Digital Transformation and Business Model Innovation

The rise of digital technologies has revolutionized traditional business models. Research on how organizations adapt to digital transformation and innovate their business models can provide critical insights into sustaining competitiveness. Key aspects include:

  • Integration of AI, blockchain, and IoT in business operations.
     
  • Challenges of digital transformation in traditional industries.
     
  • The role of leadership in driving digital adoption.
     

2. Sustainable Business Practices and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Sustainability has become a priority for businesses, as consumers and investors demand responsible practices. Potential dissertation topics include:

  • Impact of CSR on brand reputation and customer loyalty.
     
  • Measuring the financial benefits of sustainable business models.
     
  • Strategies for achieving net-zero carbon emissions in large enterprises.
     

3. Leadership Strategies in Remote and Hybrid Work Environments

Remote and hybrid work models are reshaping organizational structures and management practices. Investigating leadership strategies in these settings is essential. Possible angles include:

  • The impact of remote work on employee engagement and productivity.
     
  • Leadership challenges in virtual teams and their solutions.
     
  • The effectiveness of hybrid work models in fostering innovation.
     

4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Strategic Decision-Making

AI is transforming business decision-making, from predictive analytics to automation. Research in this area can focus on:

  • AI-driven decision-making processes and their accuracy.
     
  • Ethical implications of AI in corporate governance.
     
  • AI’s role in risk assessment and crisis management.
     

5. Global Business Politics and Regulatory Challenges

As businesses expand internationally, they face complex regulatory environments and political uncertainties. Dissertation topics can include:

  • Strategies for managing regulatory risks in multinational corporations.
     
  • The impact of geopolitical events on global supply chains.
     
  • Ethical decision-making in international business transactions.
     

6. Enhancing Business Accountability and Ethical Practices

With growing scrutiny of corporate ethics, organizations must ensure transparency and accountability. Key research areas are:

  • The role of corporate governance in fraud prevention.
     
  • Impact of ethical leadership on organizational performance.
     
  • Strategies for fostering a culture of accountability in enterprises.
     

7. Financial Technologies (FinTech) and the Future of Banking

The rapid rise of FinTech is challenging traditional banking institutions. A DBA dissertation can explore:

  • How FinTech is reshaping consumer banking behaviors.
     
  • The impact of cryptocurrency on global financial markets.
     
  • Challenges and opportunities in the regulation of digital financial services.
     

8. Change Management Strategies in Multinational Corporations

Change management is critical for organizations facing mergers, acquisitions, or cultural shifts. Research topics include:

  • Leadership strategies for successful change implementation.
     
  • Cultural challenges in global change management.
     
  • The role of technology in facilitating organizational change.
     

9. Cultural Diversity and Its Impact on Team Performance

With workplaces becoming more diverse, understanding how cultural differences influence teamwork is crucial. Dissertation topics can include:

  • The effect of diversity on team creativity and innovation.
     
  • Strategies for managing cross-cultural teams effectively.
     
  • Overcoming communication barriers in diverse work environments.
     

10. Consumer Behavior in the Digital Age

E-commerce and digital marketing continue to transform consumer behavior. DBA students can research:

  • The influence of social media on purchasing decisions.
     
  • Personalization and its impact on online customer loyalty.
     
  • The future of digital marketplaces and evolving consumer trends.
     

To End With

Selecting a dissertation topic is a crucial step in a Doctorate in Business Administration journey. The topics listed above address contemporary business challenges and provide valuable insights into the future of corporate strategies. By focusing on these cutting-edge research areas, DBA students can contribute meaningful knowledge to the evolving business world while positioning themselves as thought leaders in their respective fields.


Written By : Christina B.