5 credits

Students are provided with a foundation for academic and professional success at Walden University and with the requirements for successful participation in the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree program. They begin by exploring the process of becoming doctoral-level students who pursue individual academic research while engaging in the supportive learning community that Walden offers. Topics covered in this course include communities of care; data analytics; hybrid work; social determinants of health; and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Students engage in discussion and analyze scholarly literature related to course topics, their personal and professional experiences, and areas of academic interest from a scholar-practitioner approach and from the viewpoint of a global change agent. The focus of the course assignments is on the practical application of APA-compliant scholarly writing and critical-thinking skills and the promotion of professional business practice and academic excellence. Through their assignments, students become familiar with the Walden University landscape where support resources and tools are offered. In addition, they focus on their personal and professional development.