Course Catalog

4 Unit(s)

The course facilitates the student's development of writing and research skills that meet the doctoral program's writing style standards. This style consists of direct, economical, precise expository prose, written to the standard of a publishable doctoral dissertation and professional publication. This course uses a combination of recorded lecture videos, graded writing/editing assessments, and online class activities to develop the writing skills necessary to undertake doctoral level writing and ethical research. These require a high level of proficiency, as well as the ability to analyze, integrate, and synthesize the written work of others.

4 Unit(s)

Topics include survey design; experimental design; statistical analysis of survey and experimental data; multivariate statistical analysis including analysis of variance, multiple regression, the general linear model, factor analysis, and other methods; time series analysis; and other topics. Students will learn how to interpret the statistical results contained in scholarly papers and articles. Students will learn how to apply these methods using statistical software through hands-on analysis of research data sets.

4 Unit(s)

Examines contemporary approaches to qualitative analysis in business. Students will learn about and practice using such qualitative research techniques as open-ended interviewing, focus groups and the case study approach. Other topics include the use of qualitative research software, the philosophic foundations of knowledge and the effective display of data.

4 Unit(s)

The course teaches students how to think like a statistician, a crucial skill for making data-based decisions and understanding advanced AI models. It covers probability theory, descriptive and inferential statistics, programming concepts, and algorithm development using Python. Students will gain hands-on experience in data pre-processing, and designing, evaluating and implementing predictive models. The course covers widely used statistical modeling techniques such as Linear Regression, Na®ve Bayes Classifier, and Logistic Regression. By the end of the course, students will be able to identify and apply appropriate techniques, perform analyses, and present their findings professionally.

4 Unit(s)

This course introduces advanced research and ethical techniques to doctoral level writing and action research. It will include both quantitative analysis such as survey design; experimental design; statistical analysis of survey and experimental data, regression and time series analysis, and qualitative analysis such as qualitative research techniques as open-ended interviewing, focus groups and the case study approach and combine this with student's development of writing and research skills that meet the doctoral program's writing style standards.

4 Unit(s)

The Doctoral Seminar in Applied AI Innovation is an advanced interdisciplinary course designed for doctoral-level students seeking to push the boundaries of AI innovation. This course will provide an immersive and research-oriented experience, enabling students to explore cutting-edge AI techniques and methodologies to drive innovation across diverse domains. We will cover AI Fundamentals and Innovation Landscape, Ethical AI and Practical Implementation and Applied Innovation and Capstone Project Specific emphasis will be given to AI based innovation, patenting and product development.

View Course Sections: Spring 2024

0 Unit(s)

The qualifying examination is taken by all students after completing the three foundation course. Students demonstrate knowledge of the concepts, theories, and research covered in these courses as well as an ability to apply this body of thought towards new problems or new situations. The exam is designed to assess students' knowledge of research methods for business scholarship, and ability to examine a business situation or topic, apply appropriate research methodologies, and design an appropriate and sound research approach that could create valid new knowledge about the topic. The exam is designed to assess a student's ability to integrate and synthesize research concepts and to apply appropriate research methods to specific research questions. This integrative examination will test student mastery of research methods and skills for doctoral-level scholarship. Graded on a credit/no credit basis.

4 Unit(s)

Examines financial processes as they relate to corporate financial decision making and the types of near-term and long-term financial decisions which must be made by managers. Topics include capital structure, credit policies, financial operation, capital budgeting and transaction financing.

4 Unit(s)

Explores contemporary financial theories and investigates their applications, particularly in the field of corporate finance and risk management. Topics include portfolio theory, asset pricing models, option theory, agency theory and corporate governance, and behavioral economics. The latest developments and research work in financial risk management are also discussed.

4 Unit(s)

This course focuses on the Financial Management of firms that operate in a global business environment. Students will examine the theory and empirical research in International corporate Finance and International Investments. Topics in this course will include international financial markets, foreign exchange derivative markets, risk management, and portfolio management in the global marketplace.

4 Unit(s)

This executive-level course is designed for C-Suite leaders within the digital leadership domain, aiming to enhance their personal influence and executive presence in a rapidly evolving business landscape. Participants will explore advanced strategies and practical tools to develop a commanding presence, effective communication skills, and the ability to inspire and lead with authenticity and confidence. Through a blend of theory, interactive sessions, and real-world applications, leaders will be empowered to elevate their influence and impact within their organizations and beyond.

4 Unit(s)

This doctoral-level course is designed to equip participants with the skills to harness emotional intelligence, adaptability, and resilience in leading dynamic, high-performing teams. It prepares leaders to navigate organizational transformations and crises with confidence, thereby fostering an organizational culture of success. Furthermore, the course offers a deep dive into leadership theories and principles essential to the success of a digital leader, encouraging participants to critically evaluate and apply these concepts in real-world contexts. This comprehensive curriculum is tailored for those seeking to excel in leadership roles within digitally evolving landscapes, emphasizing the development of strategic leadership capabilities.

4 Unit(s)

This course offers participants an in-depth exploration of cutting-edge technologies, including Blockchain, AI/ML, Cybersecurity, Internet, IoT, and Cloud Computing, along with other contemporary and emerging technologies. Students will acquire the skills to harness these technologies for spearheading innovation and securing efficient operations within their organizations. The curriculum is designed to equip learners with a comprehensive understanding of how these advanced technologies can be applied strategically to drive organizational growth and transformation.

4 Unit(s)

This comprehensive course is designed to equip leaders with the insights and tools necessary to implement innovation strategies in organizations by fostering a culture of innovation within their organizations. Covering strategic innovation planning, frameworks for innovation, cultivating an innovation-friendly culture, customer-centric innovation strategies, managing and financing innovation, and leading high-impact innovation teams, participants will learn and enhance their knowledge of the tools, frameworks and culture needed to innovate in the digital age and approaches on how to implement and sustain innovation effectively, to ensure their organizations stay competitive and agile in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

4 Unit(s)

This course equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of modern decision-making processes through a data-driven lens. Participants will explore the importance of evidence-driven decision making, analytical techniques for distilling insights from data, integrating storytelling for impactful data communication, strategies for debiasing decision-making, and building a culture of objective decision making. Designed for leaders and decision-makers, this course bridges the gap between data science and strategic decision-making, ensuring participants can leverage data-backed insights for competitive advantage and organizational growth.

4 Unit(s)

This course is tailored for students who are keen on critically assessing, enhancing and transforming their organization's digital framework. It concentrates on the correct domain selection for the digital transformation, alignment of stakeholder objectives, meticulous selection of technology and talent, and the application of methodologies to maintain and elevate the organization's competitive stance in the market. Central to the curriculum is the encouragement for students to develop a flexible digital strategy that adapts to changing technologies and market dynamics. With a strong emphasis on research-driven analysis, the course guides students through the evaluation of various digital transformation frameworks, enabling them to make informed, strategic decisions. This program is pivotal for students committed to propelling their organizations towards digital excellence.

4 Unit(s)

For a successful digital transformation, organizations require an understanding not only of the capabilities of new technologies, but also of customers' evolving requirements, and the overall direction of the business. This course will provide key elements of digital transformation such as Process Transformation, Business Model Transformation, Domain Transformation, Cultural / Organization Transformation etc., that are essential for business. This course will enable students to understand the value of digital transformation through application of these key elements to one or more domains.

4 Unit(s)

"The Fourth Industrial Revolution is creating demand for millions of new jobs, with vast new opportunities for fulfilling people's potential and aspirations. However, in order to turn these opportunities into reality, new sources of data and innovative approaches to understand emerging jobs and skills, as well as to empower effective and coordinated large-scale action are urgently needed across the globe." World Economic Forum Report - January 2020. The course provides a high-level overview of digital technologies as applied to different perspectives around the future of work, workplace and workforce taking on the lens of business, policy, and workforce development. Embedded in the approach is the assumption that tackling these complex workplace and workforce issues will require new competencies for executives, including the ability to collaborate with and understand the needs of workforce, policy leaders, and technology.

4 Unit(s)

Data's single version of "truth" is often missing in companies. It is almost fated that different versions of information about a company exist causing major inefficacies throughout departments. By applying Master Data Management, you will explore a set of processes, used through a collaboration of business and IT professionals, to centrally manage and evaluate, identify, store, share and distribute data or information within a firm. These technology-enabled set of processes will be analyzed by industry and companies to gain knowledge in establishing uniformity, accuracy, stewardship, and accountability of the organization's shared data elements.

3 Unit(s)

Data's single version of "truth" is often missing in companies. It is almost fated that different versions of information about a company exist causing major inefficacies throughout departments. By applying Master Data Management, you will explore a set of processes, used through a collaboration of business and IT professionals, to centrally manage and evaluate, identify, store, share and distribute data or information within a firm. These technology-enabled set of processes will be analyzed by industry and companies to gain knowledge in establishing uniformity, accuracy, stewardship, and accountability of the organization's shared data elements. For Global DBA program.

4 Unit(s)

Operational Performance Management is a dynamic subset of Business Analytics that has yet to be consistently mastered by many successful firms due to an ever-changing business environment. For this reason, Operational Performance Management is a growing field which needs to be fully explored and developed. Both strategic and practical implications related to Operational Performance Management will be discussed infusing decision-making in organizations by top management. Frameworks currently offered in this field will be explored but new ones will be developed as part of this course. Strategy mapping, balanced scorecards, and Key Performance Indicators will be used to holistically analyze and drive a firm to success. Drawing on various sources and analyzing key BIG DATA needed to advance a company's strategic vision will be explored. Practitioners, who seek competitive advantages through enhancing organizational performance, will grow their expertise in this course through analyzing, mapping, and driving organizations towards their vision and strategic goals.

4 Unit(s)

Provides the basic knowledge needed to implement Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, data analytics, and tools to improve business efficiency, risk mitigation, and fraud detection. The student will gain a strong footing to cope with the changes that are to come with the ever-growing reliance on computer technology, the evolution of the Internet of Things, and the resulting explosion of data. To utilize the benefits of AI, students will examine how various businesses are leveraging various tools of AI and emerging data analytics technologies to gain insights and improve efficiency, predict risk, and design methods for its mitigation. The students will learn through case studies, the design and implementation of a new class of AI-based business processes as overlays to current business process implementations. After the completion of the course, the student will be able to apply various emerging AI technologies to provide various business solutions.

4 Unit(s)

This course provides a broad introduction to Statistics and Probability in Decision Modeling, machine learning and its types and Data Visualization arts. It covers supervised learning, unsupervised learning, learning theory (bias/variance tradeoffs). The course will also discuss about different applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). It covers the storytelling ability using Data Visualization. This course will also discuss about building machine learning applications with statistics and Visualization for finding better insights.

View Course Sections: Fall 2023

4 Unit(s)

This course will introduce students to advanced techniques in AI and ML to deal with images, text using auto encoders, CNNs, RNNs, GANs, Seq2Seq models, transformers and other state of the art techniques.

View Course Sections: Spring 2024

4 Unit(s)

In this course students will understand the paradigm shift from training a model in-house vs. using pre-trained models on public data, how to distinguish between the two and how to decide where to focus their attention based on their business requirements. This course can contain some hands-on building components and playing with existing tools. Conceptual understanding of Large Language Models (LLMs,) such as GPT and others, image generators followed by other techniques such as LangChain, AgentGPT and enterprise-variants of GPT like tools. Additionally any latest models will be included. A research proposal will be part of the final outcome.

4 Unit(s)

In this course students will understand the paradigm shift from training a model in-house vs. using pre-trained models on public data, how to distinguish between the two and how to decide where to focus their attention based on their business requirements. This course can contain some hands-on building components and playing with existing tools. Conceptual understanding of Large Language Models (LLMs,) such as GPT and others, image generators.

View Course Sections: Spring 2024

4 Unit(s)

These are important business topics like ethics, explainability that make AI either an opportunity or threat. The course will deal with the ethical and social concerns surrounding AI, and how to develop and use AI systems in a way that is fair, transparent, accountable, and beneficial to society. Also this will deal with the future of work, workforce and workplace and how AI should be used responsibly. A research component will be part of this course.

4 Unit(s)

Covers the full range of the principles, theories, and practice of the management of the marketing function. Students will learn the theories of the field including both key seminal literature and current published research. Students will explore problem-solving techniques for practical application through cases and modeling techniques, and will study current developments in marketing from both academic and practitioner perspectives.

3 Unit(s)

Covers the full range of the principles, theories, and practice of the management of the marketing function. Students will learn the theories of the field including both key seminal literature and current published research. Students will explore problem-solving techniques for practical application through cases and modeling techniques, and will study current developments in marketing from both academic and practitioner perspectives. For Global DBA program.

4 Unit(s)

This doctoral seminar is an introduction to the study of consumer behavior. Students will gain an understanding of judgment, choice, and decision-making processes including attitude theory and persuasion. Classic papers that represent foundational ideas in the field as well as papers about more recent findings and controversies will be examined.

4 Unit(s)

The dramatic growth in digital platforms has transformed marketing. Via extensive review of the research literature, this course examines a variety of topics in the field including online advertising, electronic word-of-mouth, social media, the impact of mobile platforms, and evolving consumer behavior.

4 Unit(s)

The need for strong organizational leadership has never been greater. Adaptive and nimble leadership is required to succeed in our rapidly changing global marketplace. Yet, the field of leadership is vast with no real consensus on what it takes to be an exemplary leader. Through a review of current and past literature and recent empirical research, students will compare and contrast several leadership theories. Students will choose an in-depth focus on a leadership area of interest and will also be required to apply one leadership theory in their business life. Students will leave the course with an overview of leadership studies, knowledge of important scholarly and practitioner work, and practice applying a theory in the business world.

3 Unit(s)

Covers the history and evolution of leadership theories and practice, from classical times to the present, with an emphasis and focus on business leadership. Through class discussions, reading and in-depth research proposal and presentation, students will compare and contrast different approaches to leadership, review current literature and recent empirical research, and analyze practical applications. Students will choose an in-depth focus on one of many specialized areas including neuroscience and leadership, women and leadership, global leadership, competency-based leadership, leadership and power, complexity and leadership, managing change and innovation, emotional intelligence, strengths-based leadership, leadership and culture, or conflict resolution. Students may also choose to focus on the fields of coaching, executive development or strategic management. Students will leave the course with an overview of leadership studies, knowledge of important scholarly and practitioner works, and the skills to apply what they have learned in the business world. For Global DBA program.

View Course Sections: Fall 2023

4 Unit(s)

This course provides students with a framework to evaluate current theories and research related to leading complex change. Students are introduced to cutting edge theories and leadership practices that will allow them to analyze the environmental, organizational, leadership, and individual factors necessary to successfully lead change in a VUCA world. Students will apply what they are learning to a present-day business challenge and will create a well-researched point of view about how to lead change in a complex world.

4 Unit(s)

Strategic leaders create a compelling organizational future vision, mission, and values, ensure that a critical mass is aligned and that the organizational culture and systems support that mission and vision. Students will learn about classic and current strategic leadership approaches and empirical research. They will engage in strategic thinking, analyze elements of a strategy, apply what they are learning in the real world, and evaluate and write an in-depth paper about a specific complex business leadership challenge. Students will leave this course with a set of critical skills and a framework to become an effective strategic leader in today's environment.

8 Unit(s)

This course provides the student the opportunity to complete a doctoral dissertation research topic which contributes to the body of knowledge in one's field. The dissertation topic proposal includes the topic, the context in which it will be examined, why the topic is interesting and/or important (e.g., expected contribution to knowledge), and the literature review (with a list of references). The literature review should be extensive enough for the committee to be confident that your initial investigation is adequate, and that the topic is both new and worthwhile. The topic proposal concludes with a brief description of the data to be used and expected methodology. Typically, the topic proposal is 10-20 pages long but students may submit a longer document. Graded on a credit/no credit basis.

6 Unit(s)

This course provides the student the opportunity to complete a doctoral dissertation research topic which contributes to the body of knowledge in one's field. The dissertation topic proposal includes the topic, the context in which it will be examined, why the topic is interesting and/or important (e.g., expected contribution to knowledge), and the literature review (with a list of references). The literature review should be extensive enough for the committee to be confident that your initial investigation is adequate, and that the topic is both new and worthwhile. The topic proposal concludes with a brief description of the data to be used and expected methodology. Typically, the topic proposal is 10-20 pages long but students may submit a longer document. Graded on a credit/no credit basis. For Global DBA program.

8 Unit(s)

This course provides the student the opportunity to complete and present a doctoral dissertation research proposal defense. Students work with a mentor/dissertation chair to present the first three chapters of their dissertation: the introduction, literature review and research design and methodology. The introduction gives the reader a clear expectation of what is to follow and establishes the context for the research as well as its significance. The literature review provides a "deep dive" into relevant literature and scholarly works so that the reader can see continuity between the dissertation and prior research in the field of focus. The research design and methodology describe how the research question(s) will be examined and answered. The proposal must identify testable hypotheses and specify how they will be tested and analyzed, include solid drafts of expected surveys, interview guides, and/or focus group discussion questions. The dissertation proposal defense presents evidence which is factually and logically valid, and which is ordered in an appropriate analytic structure. Graded on a credit/no credit basis.

6 Unit(s)

This course provides the student the opportunity to complete and present a doctoral dissertation research proposal defense. Students work with a mentor/dissertation chair to present the first three chapters of their dissertation: the introduction, literature review and research design and methodology. The introduction gives the reader a clear expectation of what is to follow and establishes the context for the research as well as its significance. The literature review provides a "deep dive" into relevant literature and scholarly works so that the reader can see continuity between the dissertation and prior research in the field of focus. The research design and methodology describe how the research question(s) will be examined and answered. The proposal must identify testable hypotheses and specify how they will be tested and analyzed, include solid drafts of expected surveys, interview guides, and/or focus group discussion questions. The dissertation proposal defense presents evidence which is factually and logically valid, and which is ordered in an appropriate analytic structure. Graded on a credit/no credit basis. For Global DBA program.

1216 Unit(s)

This course provides the student the opportunity to complete a doctoral dissertation research which contributes to the body of knowledge in one's field. Upon approval of the proposal defense, the student continues to complete scholarly research on their dissertation and work with their mentor/dissertation chair to carefully consider conclusions based upon the research results and analyses and which are consistent with the introduction. The Dissertation Committee guides the student through completion of the research and the documentation in the form of a final written dissertation that meets the standards of academic quality and an original contribution to knowledge. The completed research dissertation includes a statement of the research question(s) and its significance, how the research will make an original contribution to knowledge, a robust literature review, the research design and methodology, an assessment of expected limitations, and some ideas of future research. It ends with carefully considered conclusions, based upon the research results and analyses and which are consistent with the introduction. It should be well-written, in compliance with current APA style guidelines, and present a compelling justification for its value as a worthy research focus. Graded on a credit/no credit basis. Students who are unable to complete their dissertations by the end of their first enrollment in this course may extend their dissertation phase by enrolling again for a maximum of four additional times. Students will be charged additional fees for each additional course enrollment. Each additional course enrollment will be for the period of three months. Students who are unable to complete their dissertations after one year following the end of their first enrollment in this course will become ineligible to continue in the program, will be administratively withdrawn from Golden Gate University, and will not be awarded the degree.

6 Unit(s)

This course provides the student the opportunity to complete a doctoral dissertation research which contributes to the body of knowledge in one's field. Upon approval of the proposal defense, the student continues to complete scholarly research on their dissertation and work with their mentor/dissertation chair to carefully consider conclusions based upon the research results and analyses and which are consistent with the introduction. The Dissertation Committee guides the student through completion of the research and the documentation in the form of a final written dissertation that meets the standards of academic quality and an original contribution to knowledge. The completed research dissertation includes a statement of the research question(s) and its significance, how the research will make an original contribution to knowledge, a robust literature review, the research design and methodology, an assessment of expected limitations, and some ideas of future research. It ends with carefully considered conclusions, based upon the research results and analyses and which are consistent with the introduction. It should be well-written, in compliance with current APA style guidelines, and present a compelling justification for its value as a worthy research focus. Graded on a credit/no credit basis. Students who are unable to complete their dissertations by the end of their first enrollment in this course may extend their dissertation phase by enrolling again for a maximum of four additional times. Students will be charged additional fees for each additional course enrollment. Each additional course enrollment will be for the period of three months. Students who are unable to complete their dissertations after one year following the end of their first enrollment in this course will become ineligible to continue in the program, will be administratively withdrawn from Golden Gate University, and will not be awarded the degree. For Global DBA program.

4 Unit(s)

Provides individual study of selected topics under the supervision of a faculty member. Directed study topics are based on seminars in the doctoral program. Directed study may be substituted for seminars under certain conditions, with the approval of the DBA program director.

4 Unit(s)

Provides the opportunity for you to conduct research based upon a formal proposal, approved by the DBA program director, that results in a research product. Independent Study projects are not substituted for required seminars.

012 Unit(s)

May be applied for only after completion of all required coursework and passing the Qualifying examination. See the DBA Policies and Procedures Manual for specifics.

View Course Sections: Summer 2024 , Spring 2024 , Fall 2023