The doctorate for leaders navigating the AI economy

Doctor of Business Administration in Emerging Technologies with a concentration in Generative & Agentic AI

A doctorate built for leaders who want to strengthen their influence, broaden their strategic perspective, and drive transformation in the age of AI.

● No prior tech or AI experience needed
● Degree reads "Golden Gate University, San Francisco", no "online" label

Type

Doctorate
Enrollment Deadline

Aug 19, 2026
Duration

27 Months

Download Syllabus

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GGU--DBA-NEW-1-1

From Business Expertise to AI Leadership

This program builds AI fluency for business leaders, helping you confidently evaluate technologies and lead AI-driven change across your organization.

Professionals from finance, healthcare, communications, oil & gas, and many other industries have successfully made this transition into leaders who know how to harness AI for business impact.

The Advantage

The "Dr." title

Immediate credibility in boardrooms, investor meetings, and academic contexts. Clients and partners see the doctorate as proof of independent analytical rigor.

AI strategy

Understand generative AI, LLMs, and emerging technologies as decision tools so you can lead the teams that build them and evaluate the business case for deploying them.

A global peer cohort

Study alongside senior professionals from 50+ countries: VPs, directors, and founders. Meet your peers in the two optional networking events in Singapore and San Francisco, where learners find business partners, investors, and board advisors.

Three dissertation paths

Research thesis, published book, or a defended business plan. You choose the format that fits your goals: academic, entrepreneurial, or executive.

Built for working professionals

7-8 hours per week, including a 5-hour live session on weekends. All sessions are recorded for added flexibility. Most learners fit this around a full-time role and personal commitments.

Internationally respected credential

The program is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission, helping your credential gain global recognition. The credential is accepted in Canada, Singapore, UAE, Caribbean markets, and beyond.

This Program Is For

FOR THE CAREER TRANSITION LEADER

Senior executive in a non-tech field

YOUR PROFILE

10+ years of experience in industries such as finance, oil & gas, healthcare, communications, or professional services. You've built a successful career and leadership track record but recognize that emerging technologies and AI are beginning to reshape your industry faster than ever before.

What You're After

You want to understand how AI will impact business models, decision-making, operations, and competitive advantage, so you can confidently lead through change rather than react to it.

How This Program Fits

The program approaches emerging technologies from a business and leadership perspective. You'll develop the ability to evaluate, govern, and leverage AI while pursuing doctoral-level research grounded in real business challenges.

After the DBA: You combine deep industry experience with doctoral-level expertise and a stronger understanding of emerging technologies, positioning yourself for senior leadership, advisory, and transformation-focused roles.

FOR THE CREDENTIAL SEEKER

MBA-holder pursuing the next tier

Your Profile

You've already earned a master's degree and established yourself professionally. Now you're looking for the next level of academic and professional distinction, one that reflects your experience, expertise, and leadership ambitions.

What You're After

A respected doctoral credential that strengthens your credibility and opens doors to board appointments, consulting opportunities, teaching pathways, and greater professional recognition. At the same time, you want meaningful expertise in AI strategy and emerging technologies.

HOW THIS PROGRAM FITS

The DBA combines the prestige of a U.S. doctorate with practical knowledge of the technologies shaping the future of business. You graduate with both the credential and the capability to contribute at a higher strategic level.

After the DBA: You earn the "Dr." title, strengthen your professional authority, and build the expertise needed to lead business transformation.

FOR THE ENTREPRENEUR & LIFELONG LEARNER

Builder, operator, and future-focused thinker

Your Profile

You may be running a business, building a venture, exploring new opportunities, or simply pursuing growth for its own sake. You're intellectually curious, ambitious, and committed to staying ahead of the curve. Learning is not a requirement for you; it's a choice.

What You're After

Access to new ideas, global perspectives, and meaningful conversations with accomplished professionals. You value the opportunity to explore emerging technologies, build thought leadership, develop intellectual property, and turn or implement your learnings into your business ideas.

HOW THIS PROGRAM FITS

Beyond the classroom, you'll engage with a global peer network, explore research aligned to your interests, and gain exposure to opportunities around innovation, publishing, entrepreneurship, and business creation.

After the DBA: Whether you launch a new venture, develop original intellectual property, expand your consulting practice, or simply deepen your expertise, you'll leave with a credential and body of work that reflects your expertise.

FOR THE LIFELONG ACHIEVER

The self-actualizing professional

Your Profile

An accomplished professional with 15–25+ years of experience. You've built a successful career, earned the respect of your peers, and achieved many of the goals you once set for yourself. You're not pursuing a doctorate because you need it. You're pursuing it because you're not finished growing.

What You're After

Intellectual challenges, meaningful conversations, and the opportunity to learn alongside accomplished professionals from around the world. You want to deepen your understanding of the forces shaping the future of business while expanding your influence across organizations, industries, and society.

WHY THIS JOURNEY MATTERS

It's an opportunity to explore new ideas, challenge your assumptions, engage with doctoral-level research, and develop perspectives that extend beyond your day-to-day role.

After the DBA: You join a global community of doctoral graduates, expand your influence, and gain the satisfaction of achieving one of the highest levels of educational attainment.

Transform Your Leadership

Release your doctoral dissertation as a book

Prototype and pilot your ideas with no-code platforms

Protect your ideas with solid IPs in 155 countries

Pitch your ideas to real VCs with chequebooks

Step into academia as Adjunct Faculty or Professor of Practice

Enroll in the PwC Directorship & Board Advisory Certification

The Questions You're Asking, Answered.

"I'm not a tech person. Will I be completely lost?"

No, the program starts from zero and assumes no technical background.

Foundation courses introduce emerging technologies from a business perspective. You will never be asked to write code. What you learn is how to evaluate, deploy, and lead with these tools, not build them.

"How much time does this actually require each week?"

Around 7-8 hours per week, including a 2–3 hour live Saturday session. All live sessions are recorded, so you can catch up if you miss one.

The program is designed for working professionals balancing demanding careers and family commitments. You'll also have a dedicated program coordinator to help you stay on track and flag upcoming deadlines.

If you'd like a candid perspective, we can connect you with current learners who can share what the workload looks like week to week.

"Will this degree be recognized in my country?"

Yes, the degree is WES-recognized and valid in 120+ countries. GGU holds WASC accreditation, the same body that accredits UC Berkeley and Stanford.

Earn Valuable Credentials & Recognition

Complete all the courses successfully to obtain this prestigious recognition from Golden Gate University.

Screenshot 2026-05-13 at 11.21.21 AM

Get the coveted degree of Doctor of Business Administration in Emerging Technologies with Concentration in Generative and Agentic AI and a "Doctor" title.

Become a leading expert in Generative and Agentic AI
Get the same degree* that's awarded on campus to learners
Get global exposure through immersion trips and interactions with world-class faculty, industry experts, and entrepreneurs

*This image is a sample degree from Golden Gate University, awarded to eligible students upon successful completion of the program. Please contact the admissions team to learn more.

Program Structure

100% online learning designed for working professionals, with self-paced study, live sessions, and recorded class access.

Complete your DBA in 27 months.

Concentration

10 Months

The coursework covers machine learning, deep learning, and generative and agentic AI as strategic instruments, and addresses applied project execution alongside the governance, fairness, and regulatory dimensions of responsible AI.

Foundational Research

6 Months

Candidates establish the scholarly foundation required for doctoral-level work, developing competence in research design, ethics, and qualitative methodology while gaining a strategic grounding in emerging digital technologies. This phase also initiates the dissertation, practice-based book, or business plan development process.

Dissertation Phase

11-20 Months

Your supervisor works with you 1:1 from topic selection through to thesis completion, helping you design your research, navigate methodology, and prepare for your final defense. Choose your format: doctoral thesis, published book, or applied business research report.

7-8 hours per week, fully online

No mandatory in-person attendance. All sessions recorded; watch on your schedule.

Deferral available anytime

If your work or life situation changes, you can defer and re-enter the program at any point during your enrollment.

Dedicated dissertation supervisor

From the moment you select your topic to your final defense, one supervisor is assigned to your journey, ensuring you always know the next step.

Specialized concentrations

• Finance
• Business & Data Analytics
• Marketing
• Leadership & Strategy
• General

Flexible learning journey

Some candidates complete in 24 months; the program accommodates up to 27 to 36 months. You set the pace.

Network with your peers in San Francisco (Optional)

You may choose to join a 5-day on-campus experience in San Francisco around Month 18 for intensive workshops, research guidance, and networking with peers and faculty.

Curriculum

The DBA in Emerging Technologies requires completion of 12 units in the foundation courses, 20 units in the concentration courses, and 28 units in dissertation, for a total of 60 units. This DBA program assumes no prior tech or AI experience and will enable you to build mastery of technology, business, and research skills from the ground up.

*The course sequence outlined is for indicative purposes only. The final and actual sequence will be communicated to students during the Orientation/Welcome Webinar.

60 Units

6 1-on-1 Thesis Review Sessions

400+ Hours of Live Sessions

2 Global Immersions

Topics

Foundations of Machine Learning and AI
Deep Learning and its Variants
Generative and Agentic AI
AI Project Design and Execution
Responsible AI

Topics

Dissertation, Practice-Based Book and Business Plan Development
Doctoral Research Methods and Analysis
Emerging Digital Technologies

Topics

Dissertation Topic Proposal
Dissertation Proposal Defense
Dissertation Completion and Approval by Committee

Download Brochure

Concentration

Learn decision modelling, machine learning and its application, data visualization and story-telling. Understand supervised learning, unsupervised learning and learning theory (bias/variance tradeoffs).

Learn advanced techniques in Al and ML to deal with images, text using auto encoders, CNNs, RNNs, Seq2Seq models Transformers and other state of the art techniques.

Build a strong foundation in Generative AI (GenAI) and Agentic AI by understanding how pre-trained models are transformed into enterprise-ready AI applications. Explore key concepts such as transformers, embeddings, fine-tuning, retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), multimodal AI, evaluation techniques, and AI Harnessing to create scalable, reliable, and intelligent AI systems.

Shift from in-house model training to using pre-trained models on public data. Distinguish between the two and make business-focused decisions. The course includes hands-on activities and covers Large Language Models (LLMs) and image generators.

Covers critical business aspects of Al, including ethics and explainability. It addresses ethical and social concerns, promoting fair and accountable Al usage. It also explores the future of work and the responsible use of Al, including a research component.

Download Brochure

Your Degree Is Recognized Globally

U.S. Regional Accreditation

WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges). WASC accreditation is the highest standard for academic rigor, faculty credentials, and student outcomes in the U.S. Your GGU DBA carries this full institutional endorsement.

WES International Evaluation

World Education Services (WES) recognized. Your degree can be formally evaluated by WES for international employers and regulators worldwide. This is the standard credential verification pathway used by governments, professional licensing bodies, and multinational employers across Canada, Singapore, the UAE, and beyond.

AACSB Membership

Golden Gate University is an AACSB member institution. AACSB membership reflects GGU's commitment to continuous quality improvement in business education—the same standard used by the world's leading business schools.

Employer Endorsement

GGU alumni hold senior roles at Fortune 500 firms, multinational consulting practices, and global financial institutions. WASC accreditation is the credential employers in Canada, Singapore, the UAE, and the Caribbean are familiar with and accept.

Region-wise Credential Endorsement

Canada (Ontario, Alberta, BC)

WASC is recognized by provincial regulators and major employers. WES evaluation available for formal credential matching with Canadian institutions and licensing bodies.

Singapore

Leading public universities in Singapore accept WES equivalency for further academic progression. Recognized by local employers and professional bodies.

UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi)

WASC recognized by the UAE Ministry of Education. GGU provides a direct candidate attestation letter for Ministry filing. Professional licensing boards accept WASC credentials.

Caribbean (Jamaica, Trinidad, Barbados, etc.)

Regional university associations endorse WASC accreditation. WASC-accredited credentials are respected by employers and professional bodies across the region.

India & South Asia

WES recognition accepted. WASC is internationally respected. Professional bodies may require individual attestation depending on the licensing field.

WES Recognized DBA from Golden Gate University

The GGU Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is officially recognized by World Education Services (WES). This distinction affirms the program’s credibility and positions it as a gateway to global career opportunities.

Whether it is about excelling in your current job or seeking overseas opportunities, GGU DBA shall catapult you to higher orbits across continents.
Go beyond your job - Consult for businesses | Author books | Be a guest lecturer | Speak at conferences - Anywhere across the globe!

Hear from our learners

Get hands-on and rigorous mentorship from acclaimed industry practitioners.

Nandini Jha

Senior Data Scientist @mamaearth

“I enrolled in upGrad's MBA program in with high hopes for advancing my careers”

Nandini Jha

Senior Data Scientist @mamaearth

“I enrolled in upGrad's MBA program in with high hopes for advancing my careers”

Nandini Jha

Senior Data Scientist @mamaearth

“I enrolled in upGrad's MBA program in with high hopes for advancing my careers”

Published works by GGU's DBA community

Our learners publishing at the forefront of AI, business, and digital transformation.

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The Rise of AI Agents - Co-Editor, McFarland (2026)

Dr. Smrite Goudhaman

Designation: Adjunct Professor & DBA Mentor | Pre-Sales Solutions Manager, Datamatics Region: India

Explores how agentic AI systems are transforming decision-making, governance, and human-AI collaboration globally.

Read More

The World Remade by Artificial Intelligence

Dr. Ratheesh Venugopal

Designation: Director (Principal), Data Center Regional ITPM – EMEA, Microsoft

The World Remade by Artificial Intelligence - Book Chapter, McFarland Examines the strategic role of edge data centers in managing decentralized AI workloads across modern digital infrastructure.

Read More

The World Remade by Artificial Intelligence: Perspectives on Applications, Impacts and Ethics (Advances in Public Planning)

Dr. Thi Thanh Tam Dang

Designation: CEO & Founder, Rubie Marble

The World Remade by Artificial Intelligence - Book Chapter, McFarland (2025) Explores how AI-based Feng Shui applications can be adapted for real estate enterprises in Vietnam, blending cultural insight with emerging technology.

Read More

AI-Augmented Learning Pathways - Journal, JIDS (2025)

Dr. Albert Lee

Designation: Business Management Consultant

AI-Augmented Learning Pathways - Journal, JIDS (2025), investigates the ethical and organisational implications of AI-augmented learning for engineering professionals navigating digital transformation in Singapore.

Read More

5-May-22-2026-06-01-34-9214-AM

AI-Driven Smart Factories: Transforming Manufacturing Through Intelligence and Automation - Journal, JIDS

Dr. Musarrat Hussain

Designation: Founder, Hackaback Technologies

Examines how AI adoption in manufacturing drives transformation while uncovering the complex challenges that come with it, a balance that remains critically underexplored.

Read More

The World Remade by Artificial Intelligence

Dr. Daniel Tan

Designation: Associate Lecturer, Singapore Institute of Management

The World Remade by Artificial Intelligence - Book Chapter, Navigating the Algorithmic Frontier: AI in Financial Planning explores how Artificial Intelligence is reshaping financial planning, decision-making, and advisory systems in modern finance.

Read More

The Impact of Corporate Governance on Financial Performance: An Analysis of Small-Cap Companies Listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange

Dr. Patrick Wong

Designation: Non-Executive Director, Huscoke Holdings Ltd

Explores industry-focused research and strategic insights contributing to business innovation and digital transformation.

Read More

5-May-22-2026-06-01-34-9214-AM

Advances using AI - The Next Wave

Dr. Vanamali Somanchi

Designation: Adjunct Lecturer, TEG International College

Advances Using AI - The Next Wave - Book Chapter, The Invisible Revolution explores the latest advancements in Artificial Intelligence and their impact across industries, blending real-world applications, ethical considerations, and future-forward insights shaping everyday life and technology.

Read More

The World Remade by Artificial Intelligence

Dr. Sonny Panesar

Designation: Executive Director at UBS

The World Remade by Artificial Intelligence - Book Chapter, The Transformative Power of Generative AI in Banking Explores how Generative AI is reshaping the banking sector through smarter automation, enhanced customer experiences, improved decision-making, and the future of financial services.

Read More

Impact of Mentor’s Adaptive Leadership Style on Mentees’ Overall Performance in Indian Academia Operating in a Hybrid Mode: An ADKAR Model Perspective with Artificial Intelligence Integration

Dr. Deepak Kumar Mitra

Designation: Head Sales and Marketing Head Sales and Marketing, Praneetha EcoCables

Research Publication - GGU DBA Scholar explores business and technology-focused research contributing to innovation, leadership, and digital transformation.

Read More

11-May-22-2026-06-05-30-4804-AM

The Leadership Compass: Principles for Leading Self, Teams, and Communities

Dr. Guo Qiang Tan

Designation: Professor of Practice, GGU

Research Publication - GGU DBA Scholar, explores strategic and technology-led business insights shaping innovation and organisational transformation.

Read More

7-May-22-2026-06-05-47-9605-AM

The effects of communication, empathy, encouragement, growth, and rewards on employee performance: A structural equation modeling approach.

Dr. Px Perez

Designation: Assistant Operations Manager / Project Manager, CPG Facilities Management Pte Ltd (CPG FM)

Research Publication - GGU DBA Scholar explores contemporary business and leadership research contributing to digital innovation and industry transformation.

Read More

6-May-22-2026-06-06-05-5133-AM

Bridging the Gap: A Comprehensive 10-Step Approach to Future-Ready Competency Development

Dr. Prasad Tarapure

Designation: Program Manager | Smart Factory, Saint-Gobain INDEC4.0

Research Publication - GGU DBA Scholar Explores business transformation, leadership, and technology-driven innovation through applied research and strategic insights.

Read More

The Rise of AI Agents

Dr. Jody Salas

Designation: Associate Director, Accenture

The Rise of AI Agents - Explores the rise of AI agents and their growing influence across technology, business, governance, and society through perspectives from scholars, practitioners, and creators worldwide.

Read More

Transparent pricing, no surprises on the call

Fees and payment

USD 926 / month after merit scholarship

Pay-as-You-Progress

USD 926 / month

27 equal monthly installments · no interest

Tuition Fees

USD 25,000

One-time · up to 10% fee waiver

The list price is USD 65,800. After merit scholarship, two options exist. You pay nothing until your offer letter is issued by the university.

Disclaimer: Adjustments might apply due to exchange rate changes.

TUITION FEE
Program Tuition
$768 USD/month after merit scholarship
Pay as You Progress
$768/month
30 equal monthly installments • no interest
Upfront Payment
$20,727
One-time • up to 10% additional fee waiver
Most candidates receive a merit scholarship on the $65,800 program fee — you'll know your exact amount before you commit. Less than one year's tuition at a traditional MBA, for a terminal doctoral degree.

Whom will you learn from?

11

Instructors

Dr. Dakshinamurthy V Kolluru

Professor

Ph.D. from the Carnegie Mellon University, USA. A globally recognized AI, and ML educator who started his career as a Scientist at DMRL, Dr. Murthy holds several patents, has consulted with dozens of fortune 50 companies and trained the CEOs of some of the world’s largest firms.

Dr. Sridhar Pappu

Professor

Ph.D. from University of Texas at El Paso, USA. He has about 25 years of experience post-Ph.D. in hi-tech and IT industries in USA and India, Defense Research labs, Academia, and as an entrepreneur in the field of AI education. His areas of expertise include Machine Learning, Statistics and Probability for Data Science, and Data Visualization.

Dr. Jay Gonzalez

Professor

PhD in Political Science from the University of Utah, USA. Prof Jay is the co-author/co-editor of books in the intersections of emerging technologies, public policy, and business including Cybersecurity (with Dr. Roger Kemp) and The World Remade by Artificial Intelligence (with Dr. Shalini Gopalkrishnan). He helped develop and code several World Bank Socio-Economic and Time Series (STARS) datasets and was former Dean of Heald College’s School of Business and Technology. Prof Jay is a former ham radio technician (call sign: DZB241A) and has built transistor radios and two-element quad antennas.

Dr. Mick McGee

Professor

Doctor of Public Administration from Golden Gate University, USA. Dr. McGee is the Associate Dean of GGU Worldwide and DBA Program Director. A multi-awarded professor, published author, and in-demand speaker, he brings extensive experience as an academic leader and organizational development expert, specializing in public administration, strategic management, and leadership development. Dr. McGee was former Vice President for Organizational Development at HSBC Bank, and Command and Staff Officer with the U.S. Army (1972-1992).

Dr. Sumitra Padmanabhan

Professor of Practice

PhD in Electronics and Communication, Nirma University and MS in Data Science from LJMU, UK. Dr. Sumitra Padmannabhan has more than 26 years of experience and is an Associate Professor at Atlas SkillTech University.

Dr. Venkatesh Sunkad

Professor of Practice

Director, DBA. Served as a Military Officer for 24 years and has been in the teaching industry with GGU for 22 years now.

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Dr. Sreerama Murthy

Professor

Ph.D. in Computer Science from Johns Hopkins University, USA. He is an experienced data scientist; a globally respected mentor in AI, machine learning, big data & automation; and a successful serial entrepreneur.

Dr. Anand Jayaraman

Professor

Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh, USA. Dr. Anand is an experienced Quant Trader and Portfolio Manager who has 12 years’ experience in BFSI and 6 years of teaching experience in prominent US universities like Pennsylvania State University and Duke University.

Dr. Sunil Kumar Vuppala-1

Dr. Sunil Kumar Vuppala

Professor of Practice

Dr. Sunil Kumar Vuppala, Ph.D. from IIIT Bangalore, is an expert in AI, ML, and IoT with 20 years of experience, 40+ patents (20+ in AI/ML), and 30+ publications.

Dr. L. Srinivasa Varadharajan

Professor of Practice

Ph.D. in physics from the University of Missouri – Rolla, USA. Dr. Rajan is a highly accomplished researcher with over 20 years of experience spanning both academic and hospital settings. His areas of expertise include the early diagnosis of visual disorders, telemedicine at scale, and the development of affordable vision tests. He has contributed to over 25 publications and conference presentations and has authored two books on Python and its applications in physics.

Instructors (3)

Dr. Shonraj Ganeshrao Ballae

Professor of Practice

Holds a PhD in Computational Vision Science from the University of Melbourne, Australia, an MPhil in Vision Science from BITS Pilani, India, and a BS in Optometry from BITS Pilani, India. With research focused on AI for Healthcare, has contributed extensively to the intersection of artificial intelligence, computational vision, and healthcare innovation. Author of 30+ research publications, with expertise spanning vision science, medical AI, and advanced computational techniques.

A showcase of milestones, leadership, and growth from our alumni.

GGU DBA: Graduate Stories

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Dr. Richard R. Khan, DBA, MBA, PMP, CPMAI

AI & Technology Leader | Scholar-Practitioner in AI Strategy & Governance

Celebrating the completion of his DBA journey at Golden Gate University, Dr. Richard Khan reflected on the collective achievement of his cohort and the relationships built throughout the program. His work continues to focus on responsible AI, governance, and real-world technology leadership.

Kevin Shepherdson, SkillsFuture Fellow, FIP, CIPP/A/E, CIPM

CEO, Straits Interactive Pte Ltd

Kevin Shepherdson completed his DBA in Generative AI after an intensive 2.5-year journey. His research focused on AI ethical breaches and governance, reinforcing his commitment to helping organizations understand and implement responsible AI practices.

Tulay Guneysel, BMgt, ALM, DBA Candidate, CFE

Educator and Consultant

Tulay Guneysel celebrated an important milestone in her doctoral journey at Golden Gate University. Her work focuses on AI governance, financial reporting, and audit innovation, combining academic research with professional practice.

VIKASH CHANDRA

Director, BPL-FTA Energies Pvt Ltd

Vikash Chandra marked the culmination of his DBA journey at Golden Gate University with a commencement ceremony in San Francisco. Reflecting on years of research, case studies, and academic rigor, he described the experience as both demanding and deeply fulfilling.

Winarni Saftarya Gultom, S.P., M.M., CPM (Asia)

Lecturer

For Winarni Saftarya Gultom, earning a DBA at Golden Gate University represented years of discipline, resilience, and balancing leadership, family, and academic responsibilities. Her journey strengthened her strategic thinking and reinforced her belief in education as a tool for transformation.

Dr. Jonathan Liew

AI, B2G, BD, ET, PP Practitioner

Dr. Jonathan Liew completed his DBA in Emerging Technologies with a concentration in Generative AI in under two years. As one of the earliest graduates of the program, his journey reflected a commitment to aligning academic research with the rapidly evolving AI industry.

Dr. Smrite Goudhaman

AI Governance | Human-Centred AI | Global Professor

After 15+ years in digital transformation and industry leadership, Dr. Smrite Goudhaman pursued a DBA that allowed her to balance career, family, and research. Her doctoral work explored AI-powered learning models in hospitality, now implemented at scale within industry operations.

Dr. Gus Lazopoulos, DBA, MBA, BTech

Co-Founder & CEO, Peresia Technologies Inc

Dr. Gus Lazopoulos completed his DBA with research focused on startup financing challenges and their impact on economic growth and job creation. His work contributes to broader conversations around entrepreneurship, funding ecosystems, and business sustainability.

Guo Qiang TAN

Multidisciplinary Scholar-Practitioner

Guo Qiang TAN’s DBA dissertation explored the impact of transformational leadership on employee performance within SMEs in Singapore. His doctoral journey focused on generating practical leadership insights that help organizations build stronger and more resilient teams.

Dr. Sagar Phuria

Healthcare Strategist | Clinical & Operational Management Leader

Dr. Sagar Phuria’s doctoral research on multigenerational leadership in healthcare has been selected for presentation at the NABH Patient Safety Conference 2025. His work explores how age-diverse leadership teams can improve patient safety and operational performance in hospitals.

Dr. Manisha Gudka

Family Business & Family Office Advisor

Dr. Manisha Gudka completed her doctorate with research focused on entrepreneurship and social psychology within Indian family businesses. Her journey reflects decades of experience across governance, strategy, and family business advisory.

Dr. Sandeep Arora

Business Leader | Startup Investor | Certified Independent Director

Dr. Sandeep Arora’s DBA research examined how organisational structures evolve as SMEs scale within the Indian IT sector. His work introduced a maturity assessment framework designed to help companies identify structural gaps and scale more effectively.

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Dr. Rajan K.

Independent Advisor | Enterprise Architecture & Digital Transformation Strategist

Dr. Rajan K.’s doctoral research explored how blockchain, IoE, and future 6G technologies may shape resilient digital supply chains. His work contributes to emerging conversations around future-ready enterprise systems and digital transformation.

Dr. Hubert Tse

Founder, Porcelain Gin Distillery

For Dr. Hubert Tse, completing a DBA at Golden Gate University became a deeply transformative experience that sparked an unexpected passion for research. His journey highlighted perseverance, intellectual curiosity, and continuous learning.

Dr. Tachanun Rattanasiriwilai

Founder & CEO, Brixly Data & Technology

Dr. Tachanun Rattanasiriwilai celebrated the successful completion of his DBA dissertation journey after months of balancing academic rigor with business leadership responsibilities. His milestone reflects a strong commitment to lifelong learning and innovation.

Tung Quang Nguyen

Commercial Director – Hanoi Lead, NielsenIQ Vietnam

Tung Quang Nguyen completed his DBA in Leadership and Strategy after nearly four years of balancing professional and academic commitments. His dissertation explored leadership styles and salesperson performance within commercial banks in Vietnam.

Jeanette Lee

CEO, Envipure Group | Doctoral Researcher

Jeanette Lee’s doctoral journey began with a desire to strengthen her financial and leadership understanding. Through years of research, data analysis, and dissertation work, she discovered a deeper respect for academic rigor and lifelong learning.

Dr. Eric Orji

Healthcare Professional | DBA Graduate

Dr. Eric Orji celebrated his DBA commencement at Golden Gate University as a meaningful milestone marking the beginning of a new chapter in business consultancy, leadership, analytics, and emerging technologies.

Peta Ho

Assistant Vice President – Training & Development, GEG

Peta Ho described walking the stage at Golden Gate University’s commencement ceremony as a transformative milestone in her DBA journey. While completing her dissertation, she reflected on the global connections and academic growth the experience brought.

Josh Lau, DBA(GenAI), MBA(Oxford), AIGP

Faculty | Fullstack Developer | Change Maker

Josh Lau reflected on the broader social impact of education while celebrating Golden Gate University’s 125th anniversary commencement. His DBA journey in Generative AI reinforced the importance of accessible adult education and purpose-driven leadership.

Jiejing Chen (JJ)

AI Transformation | Venture Building | Education

Jiejing Chen reflected on the emotional significance of celebrating commencement alongside fellow doctoral peers at Golden Gate University. Her journey highlighted gratitude, perseverance, and the global community built through the program.

Cheryl Cheng

Women-in-Tech Strategist | Founder, The Second Edit

Cheryl Cheng marked a personal milestone by walking across the stage as “Dr. Cheryl Cheng,” reflecting on resilience, growth, and overcoming self-doubt throughout her doctoral journey.

Sudarshana Bhattacharya

Senior Director Analyst, Gartner | Doctoral Candidate, Generative AI

Sudarshana Bhattacharya celebrated a key milestone in her doctoral journey focused on emerging technologies and wildfire risk. Her work bridges AI research with real-world environmental impact and risk management.

Anand Jayaraman

Digital & AI Transformation Leader

Anand Jayaraman celebrated Golden Gate University Commencement 2026 as a reflection of perseverance, continuous learning, and purposeful leadership. His journey highlights the intersection of digital transformation, AI, and executive leadership.

Dr. Prasad A Modali

Chairman’s Office – Reliance Industries

Dr. Prasad A Modali completed his DBA journey while balancing decades of professional leadership experience. His reflections focused on lifelong learning, resilience, and the pursuit of deeper academic and strategic thinking.

Michael Wentworth

Managing Director, Apprenticeships Are Us Limited

Michael Wentworth’s doctoral research explored ethical leadership and corporate governance within the Australian not-for-profit sector. His work reinforced the importance of values-driven leadership and sustainable organisational impact.

Phi Song Thi Nguyen

DBA Candidate, Golden Gate University

Phi Song Thi Nguyen reflected on the inspiration and sense of accomplishment experienced during commencement celebrations at Golden Gate University, while continuing forward in the next phase of the doctoral journey.

Dr. Jeffrey Gardiner

Vice President of Cyber Data Risk & Resilience

Dr. Jeffrey Gardiner completed his DBA with research focused on the convergence of cybersecurity and risk management. His journey was marked by extraordinary resilience, overcoming major personal health challenges while pursuing doctoral research.

Adam Guerguis

AI Strategy Consultant

Adam Guerguis described earning his DBA as the most humbling experience of his life, shaped by years of research, revisions, and persistence. His reflections highlighted the realities of academic rigor in the age of AI.

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Sonny Zulu

CEO & Managing Director, Standard Chartered Bank Zambia

Sonny Zulu reflected on carrying Zambia’s representation during Golden Gate University’s commencement ceremony with pride and responsibility. His doctoral milestone symbolised resilience, leadership, and purpose-driven growth.

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Daniel Ola Joseph

Governance, Risk & Ethical AI | Financial Crime Risk Mitigation | Operational & Cyber Risk

Daniel Ola Joseph completed his doctorate with research exploring how AI can strengthen risk management within financial institutions. Built through conversations with 52 banking, cybersecurity, and AI professionals, his work focused on the practical realities of financial crime, operational risk, and responsible AI governance in today’s evolving risk landscape.

Dr. Naveen Gothe

AI Engineering | Machine Learning | Business Analytics

Dr. Naveen Gothe completed his doctoral degree following years of research, innovation, and collaboration in AI and data science. His journey reflected a commitment to advancing emerging technologies through both academic and industry contributions.

How to Apply?

There are 4 simple steps in the admission process which are detailed below:

Minimum Eligibility 4 (1)

Eligibility

Valid Bachelor’s degree with minimum 10 years of experience. Candidates with less than 10 years of experience but with exceptional profiles and outstanding leadership background may also apply.

Complete the Application

Fill in details of your education, work experience and submit your Statement of Purpose (SOP)

01

Application Review

Admission panel reviews the SOP and candidate profile to assess fitment

02

Receive the Offer Letter

Shortlisted candidates are sent the offer letter

03

Reserve your Seat

Pay a block amount to reserve your seat, and the remaining as per your payment plan

04

In-person networking sessions (Optional)

The two immersive programs facilitate student engagement with industry stalwarts in prominent global innovation centers, fostering experiential learning and expansive networking opportunities.

Proposal Defense

Singapore

Final Dissertation

San Francisco

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the minimum eligibility for this program?

Valid Bachelor’s degree with minimum 10 years of experience. Candidates with less than 10 years of experience but with exceptional profiles and outstanding leadership background may also apply.

2. What is the admission process?

The admissions process is completely online. The following are the key steps in the application process:

Step 1: Complete Application
Fill in details of your education, work-experience and submit your Statement of Purpose

Step 2: Application Review
Admission panel reviews the SOP and candidate profile to assess fitment

Step 3: Receive the Offer Letter
Shortlisted candidates are sent the Offer Letter

Step 4: Reserve Your Seat
Pay a block amount to reserve your seat, pay the balance amount subsequently

3. What kind of certification will I get after completion of this program?

Post successful completion of this program, you will be awarded a Doctor of Business Administration in Emerging Technologies with a concentration in Generative & Agentic AI degree from Golden Gate University.

4. Where can I find more information about the program?

Please visit: https://catalog.ggu.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=13&poid=1763&hl=Emerging&returnto=search

5. What are the career opportunities available after completing the program?

Earning a DBA from GGU can lead to career opportunities in corporate leadership, academia, consulting, entrepreneurship, research, the public sector, and more.

6. How will I receive my Diploma/Certificate?

DIGITAL DIPLOMA & CERTIFICATE

Golden Gate University (GGU) offers certified electronic diplomas and certificates, known as CeDiploma or CeCertificate, featuring a unique 12-digit Certified Electronic Document Identifier (CeDID). Unlike traditional transcripts, graduates may share these digital diplomas an unlimited number of times due to the unique CeDID and validation services. Graduates may also print copies of their electronic diploma, to use when an official diploma or certificate is not required. Each CeDiploma and CeCertificate is highly secure, digitally signed, and encrypted, ensuring validation by employers, licensing agencies, and other entities that need to verify a graduate's authenticity.

OFFICIAL HARDCOPY DIPLOMA

The learners will also receive an Golden Gate University’s Official Hardcopy of the diploma upon graduation. This hardcopy diploma does not include a serial number because it is not an “official” academic record as aligned with standard practice in U.S. universities. The hardcopy is only meant for display.

NOTARIZED DIPLOMA

If a learner requires, a notarized diploma can also be issued to them. This hardcopy of the diploma would have a notarized letter stapled to it. These are typically necessary only for students from European Union countries to obtain the Apostille from the California Secretary of State. There is more information available at https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/request-apostille and here https://www.sos.ca.gov/notary/apostille-faqs/.

1. Will I be able to complete this program being a busy working professional?

The program is specially designed for working professionals to enable effective learning while they continue their jobs. Recorded content can be consumed on the website or mobile application on the go while the Live classes are scheduled on weekends at convenient times so you can attend them easily.

2. What kind of support does upGrad offer?

Dedicated Student Support:
1. Email: studentsupport@upgrad.com
2. For urgent queries, use the "Talk to us" option on the Learn platform.
Extensive academic support through the Discussion Forum, TA-Sessions. Just like in a university, your batchmates will help you with any academic queries. This will happen via the Discussion Forum.
Other than your peers, you also have TAs (Teaching Associates) for academic queries.

1. What are the Inclusions & Exclusions of the In-person networking sessions part in the program?

As part of the DBA in Generative & Agentic AI, you will have two Global Immersions.

The Total Program fee covers tuition, course materials, lunches on immersion days, and any opening and closing dinners. It does not include travel, accommodation and other incidentals. You are responsible for making your own travel and accommodation arrangements for the immersion programs.
Getting a visa prior to the travel shall be your responsibility which shall be done solely at your own cost. Also, please make sure you have all relevant documents available with you to undertake this travel including but not limited to passport having validity of at least 6 months and any other document that may be required as per the embassy requirements of each of the countries in which the Immersion will be held.
Any charges incurred during the visa approval process shall be borne solely by the learner. upGrad shall, in no manner, be liable for rejection of your visa application and/or any cancellation/modification of your flights, including any additional expenses incurred due to visa re-application and/or flight cancellation/modification. You will not be eligible for refund of any amount paid resulting from the occurrence of any such events.
Getting tickets prior to your Immersions shall be your responsibility which shall be done solely at your own cost.
Your dedicated programme coordinator will get in touch around 3 months before your immersion program start date to communicate information so that you have ample time to make arrangements. The approximate cost of accommodation in India is 150 USD per day, in Singapore 200 USD per day and in San Francisco 200 USD per day.

Exclusions:

Airfare and airport transfers
VISA applications and processing
Transportation to and from campus
Accommodations
Travel health and accident insurance

1. What is the refund policy for this program?

Refund Policy:

1. You can claim a refund for the amount paid towards the Program within the duration mentioned on the Offer Letter, by visiting www.upgrad.com and submitting your refund form via the "My Application" section under your profile. You can request your Admissions Counsellor to help you in applying and withdrawing for a refund by sending them an email with reasons listed. There shall be no refund applicable once the program has started. This is applicable even for those students who could not complete their payment, and could not be enrolled in the batch opted for. However, the student can avail pre-deferral as per the policy defined below for the same.

2. Student must pay the full fee within seven (7) days of payment of the deposit amount or batch start date, whichever is earlier; otherwise, the admission letter will be rescinded.

3. Request for refund as per point no. 1 of the refund policy must be sent via email in the prescribed refund request form. The refund will be processed within 30 working days of submitting the duly signed refund form, after being duly approved by the Academic Committee.

Learner Support

Phone Number

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Mail us

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*All telephone calls will be recorded for training and quality purposes.
*If we are unavailable to attend to your call, it is deemed that we have your consent to contact you in response.

By proceeding, you agree to receive communication from and on behalf of Golden Gate University and upGrad (or its affiliates) about this program and other relevant programs.

Disclaimer

upGrad does not grant credit; credits are granted, accepted or transferred at the sole discretion of an educational institution. upGrad does not make any representations regarding the recognition or equivalence of the credits or credentials awarded, unless otherwise expressly stated. If you intend to pursue a post graduate or doctorate degree upon completion of this course or apply for employment which requires specific credits, we advise you to enquire further regarding the suitability of this degree for your academic and/or professional requirements before enrolling.