How Do I Get a Doctor of Management Degree?

A doctor of management degree is typically suited for business professionals seeking to advance or start an executive level career. In some areas, a master's degree in a business-related discipline may need to be completed prior to starting a doctorate program. Acceptance into a university or college that offers advanced education in business management will typically involve submitting standardized test scores, recommendation letters, transcripts, and essay statements. Completing the degree can take from two to three years, depending upon the number of courses needed and whether the candidate's research project is accepted by the school's board.

Someone with an interest in managing organizations might choose to pursue a doctor of management degree in order to obtain positions that involve a high level of responsibility. Before a doctoral degree is obtained, that individual will typically already possess a master's in business administration (MBA), project management, or another similar discipline. Experience working in the corporate environment, typically in an entry or mid-level management position, is an additional asset that someone might acquire prior to pursing a doctorate degree.

Gaining entrance into a doctor of management degree program may require some level of competitiveness and evidence of a person's academic strengths. Most advanced level educational programs require two to three letters of recommendation from former teachers, professors, supervisors, or co-workers. Proof of a master's degree and an adequate grade point average will usually need to be submitted with the application, along with standardized test scores. Essays on why the candidate wishes to pursue a doctorate level education and what skills and experiences he can bring to the program demonstrate the candidate's uniqueness and ability to communicate.

Some universities offer various concentrations for doctor of management degrees. A few of these include project management and organizational change. It can be helpful to research the options that are available at each university and match a potential concentration with individual interests, skills and aspirations. The decision to either complete a full-time or flexible part-time program can also be important, as some individuals may need to continue working while studying in order to maintain their lifestyles.

Traditional and online doctor of management degrees are available in a number of geographic areas. The completion of the degree usually involves taking several core courses related to business management, research writing and development. An extensive focus on research methods, leadership projects, and thesis development is a part of any doctor of management program. In the majority of cases, students will need to design sophisticated research proposals and come up with recommendations to improve or advance existing business practices and theories.