Your First Year in the DBA: What to Expect

Starting a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program is a significant commitment—and understanding what the first year truly looks like can make all the difference. In this session, you’ll hear us walk through the structure, pace, and academic expectations of Year One.

We’ll cover core coursework, residency and cohort experience, research preparation, time management strategies, and how students can balance the program alongside full-time professional responsibilities. You’ll also gain insight into the support resources available to DBA students and how the first year sets the foundation for dissertation work.

Whether you’re actively considering applying or have recently been admitted, this session is designed to provide clarity, transparency, and practical insight into what lies ahead in your first year in the Simon DBA program.