Will a Second Master’s Be Restricted? Top Day 1 CPT Doctorate Programs to Consider in 2026

by Eve Wu updated on Feb 11, 2026 03:06:34 PM

When your OPT is ending, the H-1B lottery doesn’t work out, you get laid off, or your job still feels unstable, going back to school can feel like the simplest option.

But lately, the conversation has shifted. With recent discussions around possible changes to F-1 policies, more students are asking a very practical question:

If policy direction becomes stricter, will a second master’s still be as smooth and predictable as it used to be? And if it becomes harder to justify, what are the alternatives that still make sense academically and professionally?

One path more people are seriously evaluating is a DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) - especially programs that allow eligible students to use CPT for work authorization immediately after enrolling.

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Why the second master’s is getting more scrutiny
Why more people are considering a DBA
Day 1 CPT DBA schools to compare (quick list)
Second master’s isn’t “banned”—but planning matters

Why a Second Master’s Is Getting More Scrutiny

To be clear, the discussion isn’t “students shouldn’t study.”

The concern is more specific: repeated degrees at the same level, especially when the academic progression is difficult to explain.

And this is where second master’s can become tricky: If the new program isn’t meaningfully different from the first master’s, the academic rationale can feel weak, which may make it seem like the goal is primarily to gain more time in the U.S. under student status.

That’s the heart of why so many students are suddenly paying attention. Even if nothing changes overnight, the overall signal feels different than it did a few years ago: the “story” behind your degree choice may matter more, and the margin for “this is just the easiest backup plan” may get smaller.

Important note: As of now, second master’s programs are still possible in many cases. The point is not that the door is closed—it’s that the uncertainty is higher, and a plan that relies on one assumption can feel fragile.

Why More People Are Seriously Considering a DBA

When a second master’s starts to feel harder to defend, a natural next question is: Instead of repeating a master’s… what if I move up a level?

That’s where the DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) comes in.

DBA is not a new concept. It’s a professional doctorate designed for experienced, working professionals. The focus is typically applied research—using academic tools to solve real business and leadership problems—without requiring you to step out of the workforce the way many traditional research PhD paths do.

Why DBA often feels easier to explain

From a progression standpoint, DBA has one clear advantage:

Master’s → Doctorate is a straightforward academic step-up.

It’s not “another master’s at the same level.” The purpose can sound more coherent: deeper specialization, leadership development, applied research, long-term career positioning.

In other words, when someone asks “Why are you studying again?” it’s often easier to answer when your education is clearly moving forward.

Why Day 1 CPT DBA is getting more attention

A very real challenge is that many traditional DBA programs aren’t designed for international students who need to keep working in the U.S.

That’s why some schools have built DBA structures that align with Day 1 CPT compliance, allowing working international students to:

maintain F-1 status,
continue working through CPT (as permitted by the program and DSO policies),
and pursue a doctorate that fits a professional path.

For many people, that combination feels like a more complete narrative than “Master’s #2”—especially in an environment where academic justification and continuity may be under more scrutiny.

Day 1 CPT DBA Programs: Current School Options (Quick Overview)

Below is an overview of several schools currently offering DBA programs that are commonly discussed in the Day 1 CPT context. Each program’s pacing and structure is different, so the right choice depends heavily on your work location, schedule, and tolerance for on-site frequency.

1) Westcliff University — DBA (and EdD)

Programs: DBA; also offers EdD
Length / Credits: 3–4 years, 60 credits
On-site frequency: DBA once per semester; EdD once per week
Campus location: DBA in CA/TX/FL and more; EdD only Irvine, CA
Estimated annual tuition: DBA $21,521 (incl. CPT fee); EdD $20,861 (incl. CPT fee)
Highlights: multiple concentrations, STEM option, scholarships/payment plans, “3 terms on / 1 term off”

Why it works for many working professionals

Westcliff is often viewed as a more mature CPT school with broad campus coverage and a structure that feels designed for working adults. The DBA pacing is typically more manageable for people balancing full-time work.

The “3 terms on / 1 term off” option is also a meaningful practical feature. Doctoral study is a long game, and built-in breaks can reduce burnout and make it more realistic to finish.

Who might consider the EdD instead

If your background and career direction are more education-focused—teaching, academic leadership, training, education management—EdD can be a better fit, especially since it’s structured differently.

2) Sofia University — DBA

Length / Credits: 3–4 years, 54 credits
On-site frequency: once per month
Campus location: Palo Alto, Costa Mesa (California)
Estimated annual tuition: $24,800 (incl. CPT fee)
Highlights: scholarships/payment plans, “3 terms on / 1 term off”

Why it works for people based in California

Sofia’s biggest advantage is geographic realism. If you’re working in California, being able to access campuses in Palo Alto (near Silicon Valley) or Costa Mesa (SoCal) can make the commute and schedule more livable.

The monthly on-site structure is predictable, and the “3 terms on / 1 term off” flexibility also helps for long-term pacing.

3) Ottawa University — DBA

Length / Credits: ~3 years, 56 credits
On-site frequency: twice per semester
Campus location: Kansas
Estimated annual tuition: $16,576 (incl. CPT fee)
Highlights: can apply for CPT one month early; multiple elective directions

Why it stands out

Ottawa is often chosen for two practical reasons: cost and timing.

Cost: tuition is relatively friendly compared with many DBA options.
Timing: the ability to apply for CPT one month early can be critical if your timeline is tight and you’re trying to avoid gaps between status and employment authorization.

For students in the Midwest (or anyone who prioritizes cost control), Ottawa can be a strong comparison point.

4) National Louis University — DBA

Length / Credits: 3–4 years, 60 credits
On-site frequency: once per semester
Campus location: Florida
Estimated annual tuition: $14,976 (incl. CPT fee)
Highlights: can apply for CPT one month early

Why it can be a practical fit

NLU is often discussed as a good option for people who want a Florida-based footprint. The Tampa campus location can be convenient for flights and travel, which matters a lot if you don’t live nearby but need to meet on-site requirements.

If you’re someone who travels frequently for work, or you want a program that’s structured but not overly disruptive, this can be worth comparing.

Conclusion: Second Master’s Isn’t “Banned,” But Planning Ahead Matters

Right now, a second master’s hasn’t been officially shut down, and many people can still pursue it successfully - especially when the program change is meaningful and the academic plan is coherent.

But compared to a few years ago, the long-term certainty feels weaker.

And if the broader direction continues to emphasize academic progression and stronger justification, then relying on a second master’s as the “automatic backup plan” may become less comfortable.

That’s why more students are building two tracks at the same time:

Track A: If you need a second master’s soon, move quickly and build a strong academic rationale.
Track B: Understand doctorate-level options (like DBA) that offer clearer progression and may be easier to defend long-term.

The goal isn’t to panic. It’s to avoid being stuck with only one option.

If you want a personalized recommendation, book a free 1 to 1 consultation with us. We will look at your current status, your work schedule, and your long-term plan, then help you pick a school that fits your life, not just your spreadsheet. 👉 Book a free Day 1 CPT planning session

Topics: Day 1 CPT