05-26-2026, 06:28 PM
(05-26-2026, 09:57 AM)wow Wrote: ABD usually means "completed all the parts of a PhD program but the dissertation," not "completed a doctorate that did not include a dissertation." I wouldn't assume being able to complete a PhD by dissertation only based on a DHCA or DBA. If your ultimate goal is a PhD, apply to a PhD program, e.g., PhD in Business at Cumberlands.
Thanks, that makes sense.
If Morgan State is not open for the cycle I need, then I may need to choose among Alvernia, University of the Cumberlands, or William Woods.
My main question is reputation and practical value. Out of those three, which would you consider the most respected or strongest option for a working professional who wants a legitimate research based doctorate for leadership, consulting, business, nonprofit, and executive positioning?
Right now, my rough thinking is:
1. University of the Cumberlands may have the most name recognition among online doctoral options.
2. William Woods may fit my background well because my prior doctoral work is in Business and Management.
3. Alvernia is regionally accredited, but I am less sure how it compares for business, leadership, or doctoral credibility.
Would you rank these differently?
I am less focused on tenure track academia and more focused on credibility, completion likelihood, professional utility, and employer perception. If Morgan is not available right now, I want to choose the strongest backup wisely.


![[-]](https://www.degreeforum.net/mybb/images/collapse.png)