PhD under 15k after grad level credits transfer and flexible CBE?

[Docu]

I already have an MBA from a regionally accredited school and some ENEB certificates evaluated as grad level credits. I also have the MAOL.

Now I’m looking to move on to a doctorate. I want a PhD mainly for professional credibility, not for teaching or academic work. I do consulting in healthcare and run a few business and legal-related projects.

I’ve been considering a few options:
• DHA and PhD
• PhD and DBA
• DHA and DBA

My main goal is to strengthen my credentials for credibility with investors and clients. Employers and investors in my field usually like seeing a PhD, DBA, or DHA background. I know some people here may not like “fast” or low-cost options, but I’m just looking for something realistic and legitimate.

Ideally, I want something that can be finished in about a year, especially if transfer credits are accepted. I have a lot of graduate credits in business and healthcare, so if I could transfer those and focus mainly on the dissertation or oral defense, that would be ideal. I don’t mind completing a dissertation or oral defense, which I know is usually mandatory for PhDs except for a few doctorates like the DHA.

I’ve been accepted to OKSTATE for spring and also got an offer from VUL. Kairos looks solid but would take around four years at $600 per term, which is longer than I’d like. Williamswood said they could accept up to 50% transfer credit and quoted around $20k total if everything transfers, which seems reasonable.

I’m also curious if anyone knows of a PhD under $15k that is flexible, maybe competency-based, or can be completed faster. I’ve looked at UK top-up programs that take a Level 8 qualification to top up the last two years of a DBA at UClan. That seems like the fastest route I’ve seen so far.

If anyone has suggestions, I would really appreciate it. Thanks!