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• Best Online Doctorate In Organizational Leadership

Best Online Doctorate In Organizational Leadership Of 2024

Updated: Mar 5, 2024, 3:11pm

Leadership influences the decisions, direction and culture within an organization. Leaders determine how their organizations change, evolve and succeed over time.

With a doctorate in organizational leadership, you’ll hold the highest degree available in the field. Organizational leadership studies the potential impacts of leadership and the strategies that can take an organization to new heights.

A doctorate in organizational leadership typically comes in two forms: a research-driven Ph.D. or a practice-focused Doctor of Education (Ed.D.). In this guide, we examine both types of doctoral degrees and help you choose between them. We also rank the top 10 online doctorates in organizational leadership across the country and highlight what makes each special.

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Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

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Our Methodology

We ranked 60 accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online doctorates in organizational leadership in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes and student experience. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

Data is accurate as of June 2023. Note that because online doctorates are relatively uncommon, fewer schools meet our ranking standards at the doctoral level.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Outcomes :

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability :

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Percentage of students in federal student loan deferment

Student Experience :

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility :

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

We chose the 10 best schools to display based on those receiving a curved final score of 91% or higher.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Programs

Should you enroll in a doctorate in organizational leadership online, accreditation for online doctorates in organizational leadership, how to find the right online doctorate in organizational leadership for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online doctorates in organizational leadership, indiana wesleyan university, concordia university-chicago, eastern university, indiana institute of technology, johnson university, saint edward’s university, wilmington university, franklin university, national university, city university of seattle.

Graduate Tuition

$890/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

In 1998, nearly 80 years after its founding, Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) introduced its online learning division. One of more than 160 online programs, the online Ph.D. in organizational leadership focuses on leading in a global and multicultural environment. The program concludes with a dissertation, including 12 credits of research and a presentation.

IWU’s online courses combine asynchronous and synchronous delivery and span 10 to 11 weeks, allowing students to graduate in as little as 48 months. IWU also offers a tuition guarantee that locks in tuition rates when students enter.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time, full-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Leadership and personal development, global perspectives on leadership
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for an in-person residency

$753/credit

Founded as a teacher’s seminary in 1864, Concordia University Chicago (CUC) still incorporates Christian values into its programs. For aspiring business leaders, CUC offers two online doctoral degrees in organizational leadership: a research-based online Ph.D. in organizational leadership and a more practical online Ed.D. in organizational leadership.

Both tracks include a comprehensive examination and a dissertation, but the Ed.D. program features two fewer research courses. At CUC, online students take courses in eight-week sessions and pay locked-in tuition rates.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
• Degree Credit Requirements: 61 to 67 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Promoting and leading change, follower-leader relationship
• In-Person Requirements: No

$1,115/credit

Located in Pennsylvania, Eastern University is a Christian institution with about 7,000 students. The school’s online Ph.D. in organizational leadership prepares learners to bring change to their businesses and communities. The interdisciplinary program features three specialization tracks and takes around five years to complete.

Along with asynchronous online classes, students complete three residencies per year at the St. David’s campus. This online doctorate in organizational leadership holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

• Application Fee: $75
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Leadership theory and practice, models of organizational behavior
• Concentrations Available: Business management, educational administration, nonprofit and public administration
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for three annual residencies

$928/credit

In Indiana Institute of Technology ‘s online Ph.D. in global leadership, learners have a choice of six start dates and five specializations, including organizational leadership and organizational leadership/higher administration.

Along with online research, global leadership and specialization courses, students complete a weekend residency each year, plus a dissertation and defense. They can also participate in an optional global practicum opportunity. Those with an M.B.A. can transfer up to 15 credits into the program.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 66 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Global leadership development, global talent management
• Concentrations Available: Organizational leadership, organizational leadership/higher education administration
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for an annual weekend residency

$715/credit

Located in Tennessee, Johnson University offers an online Ph.D. in leadership studies with six specialization tracks, including a specialization in organizational leadership. In this cohort-based program, you’ll learn about leading in personal, organizational and global systems. You’ll also take research and ethics courses and have the option of joining one of the annual research summits.

Online courses in this ACBSP-accredited doctorate in organizational leadership run asynchronously in seven-week sessions.

• Application Fee: N/A
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Leadership studies and theory, leadership and personal ethics

$932/credit

Founded in 1885 in Texas, the Catholic Saint Edward’s University runs eight online graduate programs, including an online Ed.D. in organizational leadership and change. In this program, students learn how to lead modern organizations and encourage innovation and transformation.

The online doctorate features seven-week, accelerated courses that blend asynchronous and synchronous delivery, plus a practice-based dissertation. Full-time learners can graduate within 39 months.

• Application Fee: $50
• Program Enrollment Options: Accelerated, part-time, full-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Socially conscious leadership, managing leadership

$696/credit (in-state)

In addition to delivering its Delaware campus programs since 1968, Wilmington University (WilmU) offers more than 130 online programs. In the online Ed.D. in organizational leadership, students learn to lead organizations through change and innovation. The program features a choice of three concentrations, plus a 120-hour consulting internship and practical dissertation project.

At WilmU, full-time students can complete a doctorate in organizational leadership in about three years.

• Application Fee: $35
• Degree Credit Requirements: 54 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Talent development and workplace learning, personal mastery and communities of practice
• Concentrations Available: Strategic leadership, workplace learning, talent development,
• In-Person Requirements: Some field experiences may be required and completed locally

$748/credit (in-state)

For more than 115 years, Franklin University has supported adult learners on its Ohio campus. The school expanded that support with its online programs, including an online Ed.D. in organizational leadership with a focus on practical and data-driven leadership.

Franklin offers multiple start dates throughout the year and allows Ed.D. students to graduate within three years. The program provides students with practical decision-making and ethical leadership skills, along with guidance and mentorship throughout the dissertation process.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 58 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Change management and organizational development, teaching in higher education

$976/credit

Founded in San Diego, California, in 1971, National University (NU) runs more than 190 programs, including 45 fully online programs. In the online Ph.D. in organizational leadership, courses cover data analysis, leadership and research. Students also complete a research dissertation and presentation.

At NU, classes start every month and run for four weeks, allowing you to complete the doctorate in less than 45 months.

• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Theoretical frameworks, strategies for conflict resolution

$785/credit

Since its founding in 1973, the City University of Seattle has developed more than 60 on-campus and online programs. In its online Ed.D. in leadership with a concentration in organizational leadership, students complete leadership, research and specialization courses, plus a comprehensive exam and dissertation.

Learners can specialize in areas like global leadership or nonprofit leadership. The City University of Seattle features start dates each quarter, plus three optional residencies at the Seattle or San Diego campuses.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 90 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Leading organizational change, ethical organizational leadership
• Concentrations Available: Specialized study options

An online doctorate in organizational leadership makes perfect sense for many students, but not everyone thrives in a virtual learning environment. But before you decide to attend online colleges , think about the following:

How do you learn best?

Online learning and on-campus programs feature the same material and award the same credentials but through different delivery formats. Online learning typically features less structure and interactivity. As a result, online students usually need better self-discipline and time management skills than on-campus students.

What are your scheduling needs?

Online organizational leadership degrees offer more flexible scheduling options than on-campus programs. Some classes run asynchronously, allowing you to study when you can while still meeting project deadlines. Other classes run synchronously with convenient evening or weekend schedules.

What’s your budget?

Online programs can help you save money on your education, particularly when it comes to travel and housing costs. The flexibility of online learning can also help you maintain a healthy work and school balance.

College accreditation comes in two major categories: institutional and programmatic. The accreditation process reviews schools and programs to provide quality assurance to prospective students and employers.

Institutional accreditation should be considered mandatory because it can impact your financial aid eligibility, transfer credits and employment opportunities. Look for a college accredited by an official accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the U.S. Department of Education.

The importance of programmatic accreditation, which validates educational quality in specific degree programs and departments, varies depending on your area of study. Programmatic accreditation is common among business programs, including doctoral programs in organizational leadership. A couple of the programs on our top-10 list hold accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

For this ranking, we evaluated 60 universities offering online doctoral degrees in organizational leadership; these degrees are common. Here’s how to narrow down your options:

Consider Your Future Goals

The right online doctorate in organizational leadership should help you meet your unique career goals. Before choosing a program, think about what you want to get from the program, such as practical field experience, mentorship or a professional network.

If you’re aiming for a research or teaching position, consider a Ph.D. in organizational leadership. If you want to advance your business career, consider a more practice-focused doctorate, such as an Ed.D. in organizational leadership.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Along with working out the scheduling and academic requirements of an online doctorate in organizational leadership, you should understand the financial investment required.

Among the programs on this list, total tuition averages approximately $54,100. Some universities offer graduate assistantships, fellowships and even fully funded Ph.D. programs to relieve some of the financial burden.

Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®), which will help you qualify for federal loans and grants. Many scholarship programs also require candidates to complete the FAFSA for eligibility.

Should I get a doctorate in organizational leadership?

If your dream career includes teaching at the postsecondary level or leading and transforming an organization, a doctorate in organizational leadership could be the best choice. Compared to a business program with an operations focus, organizational leadership focuses more on leadership strategies.

What is an Ed.D. in organizational leadership?

An Ed.D. in organizational leadership delivers practical training for career-focused students. Compared to a research-based Ph.D., an Ed.D. typically takes a shorter time to complete as well.

Is organizational leadership a real degree?

Yes, a doctorate in organizational leadership is a real degree that explores leadership theories and strategies and their effects on organizations. As an academic discipline, organizational leadership is versatile and capable of preparing students to lead in many different organizations and industries.

How long does it take to get a doctorate in organizational leadership?

The length of a doctorate in organizational leadership depends on the program and degree type. Typically, doctorates take about three to five years to complete, with Ed.D. programs falling on the shorter end of the scale and Ph.D. programs on the longer end.

How long is a Ph.D. in organizational leadership?

A Ph.D. in organizational leadership usually takes about four to five years to complete, but that depends on the amount of time you take to complete your dissertation. While part-time studies will extend your time in school, applying for transfer credits or accelerating your courses will save you time.

For nearly a decade, Doug Wintemute has specialized in helping students and professionals make sound education and career decisions. In addition to Forbes Advisor, his work has been featured on many online publications, including ZDNet, Bankrate and NurseJournal.

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National and Northcentral have merged, and this program is now offered by NU.  Learn more .

Our online PhD in Organizational Leadership program allows you to examine leadership in a multitude of dimensions. Upon completion of the program, you will have gained the knowledge to evaluate major theories and contribute to the body of knowledge in the field of organizational leadership. Fully accredited by Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), a leading accreditation association for business education, this program is aligned with best practices that contribute to continuous improvement of business education.

A challenging, fulfilling, in-depth study of leadership

NU’s Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Leadership program offers a uniquely flexible and individualized approach to your education. With a class size of one, you’ll get valuable one-to-one interaction with our all-doctoral faculty. Plus, there are no entrance exam requirements, saving you time and money.

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.

*The Ph.D. OL program is accredited by ACBSP; however, the Health Services, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and Information Technology specializations are not.

As a leading accreditation association for business education, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) “develops, promotes, and recognizes best practices that contribute to continuous improvement of business education.” The Association emphasizes the importance of “learning how to learn,” balancing teaching and research activities to enhance the quality of classroom instruction and contribute to student learning. To learn more about the ACBSP, visit their website.

Course Details

Course listing, course name.

This course is the first step in transitioning from knowledge consumer to knowledge producer. Scholar-practitioners will learn to use business theory, advance scholarly inquiry, aid business practices, and form realistic program completion goals. Preparation will be done in the context of an examination of modern trends in business theory.

In this course, students have the opportunity to gain foundational knowledge in 15 different areas important to business and management including accounting, finance, law, ethics, marketing, global business, information systems, research, leadership, strategic management, operations management, human resources, organizational behavior, and micro and macroeconomics. This course serves as a foundation for success in future courses. 

Capacity building, an integral aspect of organizational leadership, involves investing in the right people for the right roles, and implementing the necessary systems to optimize their success. In this course, students will learn theories and best practices having to do with leadership’s role in building and maintaining organizational capacity.

The Theory and Practice of Organizational Leadership course focuses on theories of leadership as they apply to organizational success. In this course, students will learn about various theoretical and applied leadership theories and practices. Students will also identify theories and practices appropriate for their own use in their own organizations.

In this course, students gain a deep understanding of the complexity of organizational ethics and ethical leadership through critical analysis and research regarding ethical principles. Students will research and evaluate consequences of unethical leadership, and how to build and maintain a culture of ethics. Students will assess ethics as they pertain to the globalization of organizations.

Communication is never more important than during times of change. Leaders play an integral role in leading organizational change by helping others understand the need and purpose of change through effective communication. In this course, you will examine leadership theories which underpin communication strategies and practices to successfully manage organizational change.

Coaches and consultants (internal and external) have become an important part of organizational reality. In this course, students will examine coaching and consulting theories and application.  Students will also explore their skills in adapting their styles to particular organizational contexts, through both effective communication and astute analyses and recommendations.

Leadership strategies are often unique to a specific organizational sector (corporate, governmental, nonprofit, etc.). In this course, you will examine cross-disciplinary leadership theories and strategies for their appropriateness to particular sectors. You will also evaluate the role of leadership in organizational development, organizational culture, and organizational change.

In this course, you will engage in the process of scholarly literature reviews and academic writing. With an emphasis on how to (a) conduct effective literature searches, specifically in preparation for the dissertation, (b) develop a plan for writing comprehensive, critical, and synthesized reviews of research literature, and (c) critically review and write about underlying theory/conceptual frameworks, you will develop a foundation for future research. The overarching goal of this course is for you to conduct an exhaustive search of the peer-reviewed research literature in your topic area and identify potential areas of inquiry for your dissertation.

In this course, you will cultivate a statistical mindset through learning and nurturing skills needed to perform and interpret univariate inferential statistics.  The course will facilitate building your statistical confidence in assessing and performing statistics. The course will cover univariate parametric and non-parametric statistical tests, interpretation of statistical output, and introduce skills needed to select statistical tests based on quantitative research questions.

In this course, you will learn advanced statistical principles and how to apply them to quantitative research in the study of organizations. You will be provided an overview of advanced statistical concepts used in empirical research, including inferential analysis. Advanced computations will be performed using commonly used statistical software. The focus involves helping you build independent scholarly skills with an emphasis on understanding multivariate data; the use, comprehension, and evaluation of sophisticated statistical concepts, and presentation of statistical results.

During this course, as a  scholar-practitioner, you will build the skills essential for designing quantitative studies; analyzing the data collected in these studies, and interpreting the results of data analyses. You will explore designs and statistical techniques to use with their envisioned dissertation research.

During this course, you will examine qualitative methods for studying human behavior including grounded theory, narrative analysis, ethnography, mixed methods, and case studies. You will explore designs and methodologies to use with your envisioned research.

The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is intended to ensure you have mastered knowledge of your discipline prior to candidacy status and demonstrated the ability to design empirical research as an investigator before moving on to the dissertation research coursework. You will demonstrate the ability to synthesize empirical, peer-reviewed research to support all assignments in this course. The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is completed only after all foundation, specialization, and research courses have been completed.

Students in this course will be required to complete Chapter 1 of their dissertation proposal including a review of literature with substantiating evidence of the problem, the research purpose and questions, the intended methodological design and approach,  and the significance of the study. A completed, committee approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Chapter 1 is required to pass this course successfully. Students who do not receive approval of Chapter 1 to minimum standards will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of Chapter 1.

Students in this course will be required to work on completing Chapters 1-3 of their dissertation proposal and receive committee approval for the Dissertation Proposal (DP) in order to pass the class. Chapter 2 consists of the literature review. Chapter 3 covers the research methodology method and design and to includes population, sample, measurement instruments, data collection and analysis, limitations, and ethical considerations. In this course, a completed, committee-approved Chapters 2 and 3 are required and, by the end of the course, a final approved dissertation proposal (against the minimum rubric standards). Students who do not receive approval of the dissertation proposal will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of these requirements.

Students in this course will be required to prepare, submit, and obtain approval of their IRB application, collect data, and submit a final study closure form to the IRB. Students still in data collection at the end of the 12-week course will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to complete data collection and file an IRB study closure form.

In this dissertation course students work on completing Chapters 4 and 5 and the final Dissertation Manuscript. Specifically, students will complete their data analysis, prepare their study results, and present their findings in an Oral Defense and a completed manuscript. A completed, Committee approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Dissertation Manuscript and successful Oral Defense are required to complete the course and graduate. Students who do not receive approval for either or both their Dissertation Manuscript or defense can take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of either or both items as needed.

The PHD-OL allows students to select courses from a broad range of electives to fit their personal and professional goals. Students must complete a minimum of 9 credit hours at the 7000 or 8000 level for the elective requirements. Students may choose from courses across the University.

Degree Requirements

The University may accept a maximum of 12 semester credit hours in transfer toward the doctoral degree for graduate coursework completed at an accredited college or university with a grade of “B” or better.

The PhD-OL degree programs have the following graduation requirements:

• A minimum of 48 credit hours of graduate instruction must be completed through the University
• Grade Point Average of 3.0 (letter grade of “B”) or higher
• Satisfactory completion of the PhD-OL Pre-Candidacy Prospectus
• University Approval of Dissertation Manuscript and Oral Defense completed
• Submission of the approved final dissertation manuscript to the University Registrar, including the original unbound dissertation manuscript and an electronic copy
• Official documents on file for basis of admission: a conferred master’s degree from an accredited academic institution
• Official transcripts on file for all transfer credit hours accepted by the University
• All financial obligations must be met before the student will be issued their complimentary diploma

Program at a Glance

Total Credit Hours:  60 Credit Hours Courses:  20 Courses Recommended Completion Time:  38 Months Next Start Date:  Every Monday Classroom Size:  One

Program Learning Outcomes

At National University, you can earn your Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Leadership online, when it’s convenient for you. And although you attend class online, you still receive the personal support and guidance you deserve thanks to our one-to-one learning model. We also have no residency requirements, no GRE/GMAT requirements, and no group projects. This offers the flexibility you need to fit higher education into your busy schedule.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of National University’s PhD in Organizational Leadership program, you’ll be able to:

• Evaluate theories of organizational leadership for their academic and practical value
• Assess an organization’s potential for positive change
• Contribute to the body of knowledge in the field of organizational leadership
• Formulate strategies  to solve contemporary organizational issues

Career Potential

Leadership professionals with specialized knowledge and skills are in demand and can pursue a broad range of career opportunities. According to Emsi labor market analytics and economic data* some of the top occupations in the filed include:

• General and operations managers
• Human resources managers
• Directors of diversity and inclusion
• Computer and IT managers
• Management analysts and consultants
• Financial and marketing managers
• Educational administrators
• Business transformation specialists

Emsi also confirms some of the top employers for professionals who have earned this degree include Amazon, Boeing, and many others across a wide variety of industries including:

• Management /Business Consulting (Guidehouse, Accenture, Deloitte)
• Finance (Wells Fargo, Citigroup)
• Healthcare (Anthem, Highmark Health, Humana)
• Biotech/Pharma (Pfizer, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
• IT/Computer (Microsoft)

Organizational Leadership at the master’s or PhD education level often leads to director-level positions responsible for senior management and organizational oversight responsibilities. There are also a variety of niched career fields that offer excellent opportunities for graduates with academic backgrounds in:

• Organizational change
• Leadership studies
• Strategic planning
• Project management

*SOURCE: Emsi Labor Analyst- Report. Emsi research company homepage at  https://www.economicmodeling.com/company/  (Report viewed: 4/18/2022). DISCLAIMER: The data provided is for Informational purposes only. Emsi data and analysis utilizes government sources to provide insights on industries, demographics, employers, in-demand skills, and more to align academic programs with labor market opportunities. Cited projections may not reflect local or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth. Current and prospective students should use this data with other available economic data to inform their educational decisions.

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Dissertation Completion Pathway (DCP) is a 100% online pathway helping students “All But Dissertation” finish their doctoral degree.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Organizational Leadership is a research-based degree that prepares students for leadership roles in various organizations. The program provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in leadership, organizational behavior, change management, and other topics. It typically requires students to complete coursework, research, and a dissertation on a topic related to organizational leadership. Graduates are prepared for leadership positions in a variety of fields and can pursue careers in business, government, or non-profit organizations.

The length of a PhD program in Organizational Leadership can vary depending on your course load and personal circumstances. This program will take around 45 months (just under 4 years) to complete. Students also complete a dissertation in their chosen field.

If you’re looking to level up your career and become a top-tier leader, a doctorate in Organizational Leadership is the perfect choice. This program will equip you with all the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in leadership roles across a diverse range of industries. With a doctorate in Organizational Leadership, you’ll be ready to take on any challenge and make a real impact in the world. Graduates can work as top-level executives, management consultants, HR directors, and organizational development specialists, and more. This degree can also open up opportunities for those interested in teaching and research in academia.

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Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Programs 2024

Are you ready to discover your college program?

An online Ph.D. in organizational leadership develops mentorship, change management, and cultural leadership skills through rigorous academic research and coursework. While a master’s in organizational leadership prepares students for leadership roles by teaching career-specific skills, a Ph.D. is more research-oriented and theory-focused, often best for executives, policymakers, or academic professionals.

Students typically pursue organizational leadership doctoral degrees to move beyond traditional leadership roles into changemaker positions, like management consultants, human resources (HR) directors, or program administrators. The degree can also lead to professional opportunities across sectors, such as federal and state governments and financial services.

Continue exploring this page to learn more about an online Ph.D. in organizational leadership, its potential outcomes, and some degree options. Our methodology found all available options for online organizational leadership doctorates, but we ultimately highlighted those with a graduation rate of over 40%.

Featured Organizational Leadership Doctorate Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Programs

Anderson university.

• Campus + Online
• In-State $27,480
• Out-of-state $27,480
• Retention Rate 85%
• Acceptance Rate 46%
• Students Enrolled 4,111
• Institution Type Private
• Percent Online Enrollment 61%
• Accreditation Yes

Concordia University-Chicago

• In-State $33,310
• Out-of-state $33,310
• Retention Rate 57%
• Acceptance Rate 88%
• Students Enrolled 6,086
• Percent Online Enrollment 84%

Johnson University

• In-State $17,384
• Out-of-state $17,384
• Retention Rate 68%
• Acceptance Rate 81%
• Students Enrolled 942
• Percent Online Enrollment 46%

National University

• In-State $13,320
• Out-of-state $13,320
• Retention Rate 64%
• Acceptance Rate 55%
• Students Enrolled 17,972
• Percent Online Enrollment 80%

Southeastern University

• In-State $27,320
• Out-of-state $27,320
• Retention Rate 75%
• Acceptance Rate 50%
• Students Enrolled 9,966
• Percent Online Enrollment 45%

Tiffin University

• In-State $27,780
• Out-of-state $27,780
• Retention Rate 65%
• Acceptance Rate 74%
• Students Enrolled 2,934
• Percent Online Enrollment 59%

University of the Cumberlands

• In-State $9,875
• Out-of-state $9,875
• Retention Rate 67%
• Acceptance Rate 85%
• Students Enrolled 19,272
• Percent Online Enrollment 95%

Vanderbilt University

• In-State $54,840
• Out-of-state $54,840
• Retention Rate 97%
• Acceptance Rate 7%
• Students Enrolled 13,796
• Percent Online Enrollment 11%

Take the next step toward your future with online learning.

Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.

Top 25 Online PhD Programs in Leadership

Best for those interested in research, academia, or high-level leadership positions, an online Ph.D. in leadership is the highest level of education. Most full-time learners complete the degree in four years, but many online Ph.D. in leadership programs offer flexible plans of study, letting students complete courses at their own pace.

“A doctorate in leadership teaches students to examine problems from new perspectives, compare different views on topics, and find innovative solutions.”

A doctorate in leadership teaches students to examine problems from new perspectives, compare different views on topics, and find innovative solutions. These programs also emphasize research, and graduates become masters of critical thinking, writing, and analysis. Some schools also offer specializations in fields like business, health sciences, and information systems.

Graduates of online Ph.D. in leadership programs often find leadership roles within their current fields. Individuals with professional experience benefit most from a doctorate in leadership.

Featured Online Programs

What can you do with an online ph.d. in leadership.

A Ph.D. in leadership prepares professionals for specialized positions, typically within their current fields or organizations. However, specific career outcomes vary depending on the program. For example, one program might offer a specialization for business leaders, and another may focus on human resources.

Regardless of specialization, most online Ph.D. in leadership programs focus on similar subject matter. Most cover ethics, team-building, research strategies, and organizational dynamics. By the end of the Ph.D. program, graduates become expert leaders, ready to take on demanding leadership roles at the highest levels.

Those who complete a Ph.D. sometimes find careers in academia as postsecondary educators. As professors, individuals teach leadership courses, though some might teach positions related to their bachelor’s or master’s degree. Others stay within academia but choose not to teach, instead finding administrative positions at colleges and universities. While specific career paths and job titles vary, graduates of an online Ph.D. program in leadership may work as:

• Career and technical education teachers
• Compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialists
• Human resources managers
• Human resources specialists
• Instructional coordinators
• Labor relations specialists
• Postsecondary education administrators
• School and career counselors
• Training and development specialists

Question	Answer
Can I do a Ph.D. after an MBA?	Yes, some business professionals earn their Ph.D. in leadership after completing an MBA and earning more professional experience.
Do you need a master’s degree before pursuing a doctorate in leadership?	No, many colleges and universities accept Ph.D. applicants who hold only bachelor’s degrees from accredited institutions. However, schools usually prefer applicants with a master’s degree.
Is a doctorate in leadership a Ph.D. or an Ed.D.?	A doctorate in leadership is a Ph.D., while an Ed.D. stands for doctor of education. While the two are similar, they can lead to different careers.
How long does a doctorate in leadership take to earn?	Specific program length varies depending on school and study format, but most programs take 3-5 years to complete.

Recommended Online DBA Programs

Top 10 online ph.d. programs in leadership.

Rank	School
1	Grand Canyon University
2	Gwynedd Mercy University
3	Colorado State University
4	Indiana Wesleyan University
5	Walden University
6	Xavier University
7	Saint Thomas University
8	Capella University
9	Creighton University
10	Saint Leo University

Career and Salary Outlook for Leadership

Because a Ph.D. in leadership attracts students from all types of backgrounds, specific career outcomes and salary expectations vary greatly. Most schools specialize their Ph.D. in leadership programs in particular career trajectories, so degree-seekers should consider their prospective career paths when choosing where to study. Graduates often go on to work in business, human resources, academia, administration, and organizational leadership. Popular career outcomes include:

• Top Executives: Top executives hold different titles, including CEO, general manager, and president. These professionals plan and execute strategies to help an organization, government, or university meet its long-term goals. These professionals oversee budgets, appoint or hire employees, and consult other leaders within the organization.
• Human Resources Managers: These professionals run some or all of an organization’s administrative aspects. They hire new staff, conduct interviews, and serve as an intermediary between leadership and employees. Human resources managers can also hold specialized roles, including labor relations director, recruiting manager, or payroll manager.
• Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists: While some individuals work as compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialists, many end up specializing in one of the three areas. These professionals assess how an organization handles these three areas, then analyzes data to determine better or more efficient ways to manage each area. This position requires excellent communication with other organizational leaders.
• Postsecondary Education Administrators: These administrators work at colleges or universities, often for the admissions department, the registrar’s office, student affairs, or in leadership. Their daily tasks vary by institution and field. The size and scope of tasks also depend on the school’s size. Postsecondary education administrators at small schools tend to take on more responsibilities.

Career	Median Annual Salary	Projected Growth Rate (2019-2029)
	$104,690	4%
	$116,720	6%
	$64,560	8%
	$95,410	4%

Source: BLS

Accreditation for Online Doctorates in Leadership

Prospective students can determine an online degree’s quality by looking for accreditation. Accreditation verifies that a school or program meets the rigorous academic standards set by an accrediting organization. All accrediting institutions must be approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation , the U.S. Department of Education , or both.

The best schools secure regional accreditation. Ph.D. programs should also secure programmatic accreditation when available. For example, students interested in a Ph.D. in leadership with a business focus might look for accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs .

Online programs can earn specific accreditation to verify their academic excellence. When researching online Ph.D. in leadership programs, look for accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission .

Courses in an Online Ph.D. Program in Leadership

An online Ph.D. in leadership requires the most advanced courses in leadership and related fields. Students usually learn about different leadership and strategic theories, many of which come from recent publications by industry experts. Curricula also focus on research as students must complete a dissertation or final project to earn their Ph.D.

Specialized Ph.D. in leadership programs blend leadership with different fields. For example, a leadership doctoral degree with an emphasis in business administration might include courses on finance or accounting. Organizational leadership programs may favor courses in human resources. While specific course requirements vary by school, programs might include the following courses.

Emerging Theories of Leadership

Professionals must apply an array of leadership tactics for different scenarios. This course explores some new theories that could apply to different types of organizations. Students analyze these theories and determine how they apply to different leadership styles. The theories also serve to help develop learners’ leadership skills.

Research Process and Theory

Ph.D. in leadership students spend years completing their dissertation. To begin the process, programs usually teach introductory research courses. This course examines the beginning of the research process, then introduces different research theories used in academic and professional settings. This course helps students prepare to start their dissertation.

Management Philosophy and Practice

Along with different leadership theories, students learn to develop a unique leadership philosophy based on their professional experience and studies. Learners discover different leadership philosophies and see how they apply to unique situations. Students then compare different philosophies to determine the best methods for various leadership roles, including management, mentorship, and organizational leadership.

Ethics and Leadership

No matter what industry a Ph.D. in leadership graduates works in, ethics remain critical. This course examines the values and ethics of organizations and how leadership styles align with these values. Students also learn to determine the difference between ethical and unethical leadership and how the two may vary depending on the role or environment.

Quantitative Research Techniques

Often split into two courses, this course introduces the organization, analysis, and summarization of quantitative data. The course uses statistics, and sometimes statistical software, to help students perform their analysis. Another course critical to research, quantitative research techniques helps doctoral students with their dissertation.

Financial Aid for Graduate Students

Graduate students, including Ph.D. in leadership students, must find a way to cover some, or all, of their education costs. Many students still hold student loan debt from their undergraduate degree, so financing a graduate degree can seem difficult.

Fortunately, graduate students can complete the FAFSA to discern their eligibility for government-funded financial aid. Students can also apply for grants and scholarships to reduce or cover tuition costs. Student loans can cover any remaining costs.

Graduate students can also use fellowships to help cover costs while earning professional experience. While each fellowship sets different requirements, learners typically secure a fellowship when they conduct research or pursue a degree, including a Ph.D. in leadership.

Scholarships for Students in Leadership

When looking to pay for a Ph.D. in leadership, degree-seekers should research different types of scholarships. While some scholarships apply to all students, organizations sometimes reserve scholarships for a specific type of student, such as a doctoral leadership learner. See below for some scholarships for Ph.D. in leadership students.

Fairview Courageous Leader Scholarship Who Can Apply : Current Fairview employees looking to advance their careers and find leadership positions can apply for this award. Applicants must demonstrate excellent leadership ability and pursue a leadership-based program. Amount :Varies

Citizens Bank Scholarship Who Can Apply : Anyone pursuing a graduate degree can apply. Citizens Bank awards $2,500 each month, and one winner each year receives $15,000. Amount : $2,500-$15,000

Against the Grain Groundbreaker Leadership Scholarship Who Can Apply : Students of Asian and Pacific Islander descent can apply for this leadership scholarship. Applicants must submit a video showcasing their creativity and leadership. Amount :$1,500

Point Foundation National LGBTQ Scholarship Who Can Apply : “Out” individuals who identify as members of the LGBTQ community can apply for this scholarship. The Point Foundation selects winners based on leadership qualities, academic achievement, and financial need. Amount :Varies

Omicron Delta Kappa Scholarships Who Can Apply : Members of Omicron Delta Kappa, the national leadership honor society, who want to earn a graduate degree qualify for this scholarship. Omicron Delta Kappa selects more than 30 winners each year. Amount :$1,000-$2,500

Top 25 Online Ph.D. Programs in Leadership

Beyond studying at an accredited institution, learners want to enroll in the best online Ph.D. programs in leadership. We compared every school with an online Ph.D. in leadership, paying close attention to affordability, quality, online format, and reputation. Read on for the top 25 online Ph.D. programs in leadership.

1. Grand Canyon University

The Arizona Southern Baptist Convention founded Grand Canyon University in 1949 to ensure that locals would have a faith-based institution that specifically catered to baptists. They did not move to their current Phoenix, Arizona campus until 1951. In 2017 The magazine Town and Country ranked Grand Canyon University among their top 10 Best College Campus issue, citing their top-notch facilities, including their state of the art aquatics center with a hot tub. The Higher Learning Commission holds their regional accreditation. They offer over 200 degree programs including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. Many classes and academic programs can be achieved online at Grand Canyon.

The  Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Development at Grand Canyon University  is an online or evening on-campus doctorate program in leadership. Students are expected to pour themselves into the research and practice of creating soluble and sustainable organizations that can transform our communities. Leadership is a science and students will learn the formulas. Graduates of the program will know how to facilitate global and diverse workforces, engage in ethical dilemmas and stewardship, enforce corporate responsibility among other many other skills. The entire program is 60 credit hours in length, and each class should take eight weeks to complete.

Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership: Behavioral Health Cost: $ $$$$

2. Gwynedd Mercy University

Gwynedd Mercy University was established in 1948 by the Sisters of Mercy of Merion, near Philadelphia. Catholicism was the tradition that guided their founding and remains an essential aspect of their identity. They were a Junior College initially, but in 1963 they began offering bachelor’s degrees along with associate’s. They were also an all women’s school until 1973 when they offered admittance to male students. Their primary campus is just 15 minutes from Philadelphia and sits on 160 acres of land in Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania. Their programming features over 30 undergraduate majors and over ten graduate programs. Faculty and students at Gwynedd Mercy University value small classes and personal attention, with a student to faculty ratio of 11:1.

The Executive EdD Program: Doctorate in Education Leadership at Gwynedd-Mercy College in an online format. Some who enroll may choose to take the program on an accelerated timeline. This program is 54 credit hours in length and students can finish it in under three years. Students will learn how to facilitate and administer programming at Educational Policy Organizations, Government and nonprofit organizations that support education, U.S. and International Schools, Colleges and Universities, and School Districts. The curriculum has a research focus, with policy analysis threads, as well as executive functions infused into the coursework. Each student will specialize in Pre-K Leadership, Leadership in Special Education, or Leadership in Higher Education.

Degree & Specialization: Executive EdD Program: Doctorate in Education Leadership Cost: $$$ $$

3. Colorado State University

In 1870 Colorado Territory governor Edward M. McCook began plans to establish Colorado State University. Many people refer to the Fort Collins campus simply as CSU. It is currently a land grant institution and the original campus in the Colorado State University System. When they first opened their doors, they were called the Colorado Agricultural College, and they then changed their name to Colorado State College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts. Their campus is in the town of Fort Collins, Colorado, just one hour north of Denver. Their current student enrollment is close to 34,000 students. The US News and World Report ranks CSU regularly; they were ranked 121 among Public and Private National Universities.

The online Ph.D. program in Education and Human Resources Studies from Colorado State  offers an option to specialize in Higher Education Leadership. This program was designed to teach students to be innovative and effective leaders in colleges and universities. Students will find the best research practices to build on their skills and knowledge and relate them to higher education environments. Students will study diversity and inclusion as they apply to higher education. The program is 90 credit hours in length and can be completed in 5 years time. Students can choose to engage with this terminal degree program in an online format that utilizes a variety of media formats. They dive into the curriculum using video, audio, texts (such as blog posts and textbooks), as well as discussion forums.

Degree & Specialization: Online DBA Higher Education Leadership Cost: $$ $$$

4. Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University was established in 1920 under the original name Marion Normal College, and it then became known as the Marion Normal Institute. In 1928 they took on their current name Indiana Wesleyan University. At the foundation of the institution is the Wesleyan Church Denomination, as they are a Christian liberal arts university. Not only are they the largest private postsecondary school in the state of Indiana, but they are also the also the biggest Council for Christian Colleges and Universities member. Their campus has won awards for its new construction, and it sits on 345 acres of land in Marion, Indiana.

For a  Ph.D. program in Organizational Leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University,  the flexibility that comes from a hybrid format of delivery, will challenge and grow the leadership skills within anyone. Many of the classes are offered online, but some require face-to-face attendance in Indiana. Students can synchronously connect to the weekly classes online. The entire program can be completed in 40 months time. The cohort model is utilized in this rigorous program, enabling students to access peer support and collaboration. In addition to the onsite classes students will participate in the September, April and January terms, attendance is required for a summer institute in July that is one week long. Catholic teachings are infused into the coursework.

Degree & Specialization: Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Cost: $ $$$$

5. Walden University

Walden University was established in 1970 as a school that would serve adult learners who are in pursuit of doctoral degrees. Because their primary constituency is adults, many of whom are professionals, their programming is entirely online. Over 57,000 students have enrolled at Walden annually from 150 countries around the world. Their mission is infused with principles of social justice and engagement with the liberal arts. Since 1990 they have been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and in 2013 it was reaffirmed. This accreditation grants students access to federal financial aid, as well as individual state financial aid upon unique circumstances.

Walden University offers a Ph.D. in Management with a Specialization in Leadership and Organizational Change. The program was designed for optimal flexibility and is administered online, except for four residencies that total 16 days that students have to be on campus. The entire course of study is made up of 86 credit hours, 43 of which can be transferred in from another college or university. The core courses make up 20 credits, as do the specialty courses. Students are given eight years to completed the program but can work within a timeline that is effective for them. The entire course of study will culminate in a dissertation.

Degree & Specialization: Leadership and Organizational Change: Ph.D. in Management Cost: $$ $$$

6. Xavier University

Xavier University was established in 1831. They are a private Jesuit Catholic institution. They are the fourth oldest Jesuit postsecondary and sixth oldest Catholic university in the nation. The primary focus of Xavier is offering a liberal arts undergraduate education; however, they also offer exemplary graduate and postgraduate opportunities. Their campus sits on 190 acres of land in the North Avondale neighborhood of downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. The campus features an active chapel that supports a parish community that is not necessarily connected to the university, but that students have easy access to. There are a total of nearly 7,000 students enrolled at Xavier each year.

The Leadership Studies and Doctoral program (EdD) from Xavier University  was created to build leadership capacity among working professionals in many community and organizational contexts. The program is delivered in a hybrid format. Many classes are offered on campus, however many classes have a remote learning component that enables students to study with more flexibility. Students can partake in assignments off campus and work either in collaborative groups or individually. There is a course management system that students can access to facilitate assignment submissions and communication. The school’s Jesuit Catholic foundation is infused in the learning and promotes organizational change and social justice.

Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education Interdisciplinary Leadership Cost: $ $$$$

7. Saint Thomas University

Saint Thomas University, also known as STU, was established in 1961. They are a private university, founded on the principles of Catholicism. Their course offerings include over 25 undergraduate disciplines and 27 graduate programs, and one law program that is considered a professional degree. They also have five doctoral degree programs. Saint Thomas has extensive online learning opportunities through ST Online, and their campus is a treat to step foot on, as it is adjacent to beautiful Miami Beaches. The campus sits on 150 acres of land in Miami, Florida in the Wynwood Art District. They have offered extensive study abroad programming dating back to 1946, with a program in Havana, Cuba.

The Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation that is delivered online at St. Thomas University  is offered through their STU Online programming. One of the assets of this program is that it is exclusively tailored to the unique needs and interests of each student. Integrated dissertation work begins in the first year of the program, ensuring that students have a clear focus, support, and vision for their work. The dissertation is defended entirely online, as is their coursework. The entire program can be completed in as little as 36 months and is made up of 60 credit hours. Students will learn a myriad of leadership skills that apply to agencies and organizations, such as responding to the needs of diverse organizations as they evolve and change.

Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Leadership Cost: $ $$$$

8. Capella University

Capella University was established in 1993 with the vision of providing distance learning opportunities to adult and non-traditional learners. Their headquarters is located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, though the majority of their programming is delivered online. They cater to a diverse range of students, as more than half of their student body identifies as an ethnic minority. They offer 142 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as 25 certificate programs. Their online courses are extensive with over 1,600 unique options. Annually they have about 36,000 students enrolled in their programs. They are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Some of their other programs hold specific accreditations.

Capella University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Business Management with a specialty in Leadership , through their ABCSP accredited school of Business and Technology. This program is delivered in a hybrid format with classes primarily offered online, except for three on-campus residencies through the course of the program. This unique program requires 11 core courses and five specialization courses. Students will be required to participate in comprehensive exams and also be required to write a dissertation. Much of the coursework emphasized critical thinking, reflection, and statistical thinking. The structure of the program is based on a quarter system, enabling students to participate in 1-3 courses per 10 week quarter.

Degree & Specialization: Ph.D. Leadership Cost: $$ $$$

9. Creighton University

Creighton University was established in 1878 by the Society of Jesus. They are among 28 other Catholic schools that are members of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. Creighton is fully accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. Their campus sits on 140 acres of land in Omaha, Nebraska, just outside of the downtown district of business. There are ten distinct colleges and schools that makeup Creighton overall programming. Nearly 8,400 students have enrolled annually in their many courses of study, including online learners. The majority of their student body has participated in extensive volunteer service.

The Doctorate Program in Education with a focus on Interdisciplinary Leadership through Creighton University . Students will engage in the science behind management, group dynamics, and facilitation. The program was constructed with Jesuit ideology at its core, which includes faith, human dignity, and justice. Many graduates of the program have gone on to achieve excellence in career paths such as school administrators, chief executives, educators, leaders in marketing and sales, as well as faith leaders. This program can be achieved entirely online or with a hybrid model that enables students to have face-to-face interaction. Each student will produce a research-driven dissertation.

Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Interdisciplinary Leadership Cost: $$ $$$

10. Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University was initially established in 1889 and then re-established in 1959. They have always had an association with the Holy Name Monastery, which is a Benedictine Convent, as well as the Benedictine Monastery Saint Leo Abbey. The University and the Abbey were named after Pope Leo the great. Saint Leo is among the five largest Catholic schools in the nation. They have also made a name for themselves as one of the first universities in the country to offer distance learning opportunities, beginning in the Vietnam War Era when they were committed to educating service members. Their campus is situated among a rural landscape in Saint Leo, Florida.

The  Doctor of Education (EdD) in School Leadership at Saint Leo  is delivered through the College of Education and Social Services. It is an online program geared toward students who are interested in moving beyond their current career and are interested in a leadership role in education and professional practice. There is an on-campus residency requirement that meets in July. Students are required to attend each of these to reamin in good standing in the program. Graduates will be qualified to seek careers as organizational leaders in K-12 schools. The program employs the cohort model, ensuring that students have a collaborative experience with their peers, which is especially important in a distance learning model.

Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education School Leadership Cost: $$ $$$

11. Colorado Technical University

Colorado Technical University was established in 1965 with the sole purpose of educating military personnel and their families to be equipped to pursue vocational and technical careers. The majority of classes at Colorado Technical University are delivered online, though about 8 percent of their classes take place on their campus in Colorado Springs, Colorado. They also have a learning site in Aurora, adjacent to Denver. The institution is accredited regionally by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. They offer a variety of programs that grant bachelor’s degrees as well as master’s and doctoral programs. Most of the coursework focuses on the fields of management, technology, and business.

Colorado Technical University offers a Doctor of Management Program in Executive Leadership that is delivered primarily online with the infusion of in-person residencies. Students will have the opportunity to engage in the deepest level of research that responds to the methodologies of management and research. Students will also have access to a vast array of electives that support their personal and career goals including global leadership, non-profit leadership, and project management. Many students find this program when they are investing in adding core leadership skills to their already existing professions, including consulting. The program is designed with flexibility in mind, and there are multiple start dates per year that make it easy to matriculate. Each student will write a culminating dissertation and participate in an in-person symposium.

Degree & Specialization: Online Ph.D. In Management-Executive Leadership Cost: $ $$$$

12. Northeastern University

Northeastern University was founded in Boston in 1898 as a private university. They were initially established by the name Evening Institute for Younger Men and facilitated programming at the YMCA at Huntington Avenue. It was not until 1948 that they amicably cut ties with the YMCA. Soon after they began offering admittance to women students and became the private school that they are today. Their campus sits on 73 acres of land in outside of the city. They also have some satellite campuses throughout the region. They have been granted the classification of conducting the highest level of research by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. They have over 25,000 students enrolled each year.

Northeastern University offers a Doctor of Education program with a concentration on Situated Leadership. This specialization focuses on the reflections that students have faced challenges that arise in educational leadership positions. This course of study is motivated by theory and research as they are applied to complex problem-solving. Students will learn how to use practical research in their daily work practice. The majority of the program is offered online; however, students are required to attend a residency. The entire program can be completed in 3 to 4 years of consistent study. Students will choose a discipline from organizational leadership, higher education, or teaching and learning leadership.

Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education -Leadership Cost: $ $$$$

13. Indiana Tech

Indiana Tech is officially called Indiana Institute of Technology, but most frequently referred to Indiana Tech. It was established in 1930 with the name Indiana Technical College and was designed to be a two year school granting technical degrees and career-oriented programming. It was not until 1948 that they were rechartered and became a non-profit university that grants Ph.D. educations. Indiana Tech is comprised of five distinct colleges with a wide array of course offerings among them. Their College of Professional Studies is extensive in reach and provides online and accelerated degree programs. Their primary campus is situated on 42 acres of land in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Total student enrollment is close to 10,000 students.

The Ph.D. Program in Global Leadership from Indiana Tech provides students with an opportunity to engage more deeply in leadership practices to advance their careers opportunities. Students will learn how to conduct innovative research that is cross-cultural in reach while examining the duality between organizational leadership and culture. The program was built to support working professionals from diverse backgrounds, and as a result, it is delivered online with plenty of spaciousness for flexibility. Students in the program will have the opportunity to contribute to the field by conducting original qualitative and quantitative research and developing theories accordingly that will support the field of global leadership.

Degree & Specialization: Ph.D. in Global Leadership Cost: $$ $$$

14. Liberty University

Liberty University was established in 1971 as a Christian research college. It was founded by the well known evangelical leader Jerry Falwell. Their original name was Lynchburg Baptist College. The vision and mission of the school centers liberty as a Christian Academic Community, and their investment in the academic and spiritual development of all of their students. They are one of the most prominent Christian schools in the world with over 90,000 students enrolled in online programming, and more than 15,000 on their 7,000-acre campus situated in Lynchburg, Virginia. Liberty University offers more than 550 academic programs through Liberty online.

Liberty University offers an online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree program that has a leadership focus. Students will have the option of infusing intensives into the online program. The entire course of study is 60 credit hours and can be completed in 3.5 years. Students can transfer up to 15 credit hours. The sequence of study emphasizes leadership in a business context, marketing, professional management, and human resources. Students will be able to choose a specialty that will be in service to their personal and professional goals. The featured classes include Organizational Design and Structure, Leadership Theory, Organizational Design and Structure, and Leading Organizational Change.

Degree & Specialization: Online DBA in Leadership Cost: $$ $$$

15. University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands was established in 1889 as a private university with an affiliation to the Kentucky Baptist Convention, which is connected to the Southern Baptist Convention. Their original name was the Williamsburg Institute. In 1931 they were granted their first accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Their offerings include more than 45 courses of study, with many additional minor options. Their campus is situated in Williamsburg, Kentucky. Their total enrollment is 7,000 students. The school’s motto is A Life More Abundant, and Cumberland tries to stay true to its motto by positioning students to excel in their life paths.

The  online Ph.D. program in Leadership from the University of the Cumberlands is designed to support students to advance into a variety of leadership positions in various organizations and educational institutions. Embedded into the curriculum is coursework that focuses on the politics of decision making in an educational context, program planning, as well as assessment and reflection strategies. Students have the option of taking additional coursework to qualify for the Kentucky Rank 1 certification. Students will gain skills in ethical leadership in both community and professional settings. Each student will choose a specialty area to work on improving their knowledge base and create applicable discourse.

Degree & Specialization: Online PhD in Leadership Cost: $$$ $$

16. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California is often called USC. They were established in 1880, making them the oldest private educational research institution in the state of California. When the school first opened their doors tuition cost fifteen dollars, and students had to ask the president for permission if they wanted to step foot off of campus. They now have close to 20,000 students enrolled in their undergraduate programming, and nearly 27,000 students enrolled in their graduate and professional programming. Their urban school sits on 299 acres of land in what is known as University Park Los Angeles, California.

The University of Southern California offers an online EdD in Organizational Change and Leadership that is designed for professional students who are interested in learning how to create change on large and small scales. Some possible students may include those who are seeking leadership positions in private firms, government and non-profit organizations, and those interested in leadership opportunities at colleges and universities. Though the coursework is delivered online, it is supplemented with real-world experiences. Immersion weekends are helping on campus annually. Students will learn how to be effective supervisors and to motivate groups. The entire program culminates with a dissertation and longitudinal reflective self-assessment.

Degree & Specialization: EdD in Organizational Change and Leadership Cost: $$ $$$

17. City University of Seattle

The City University of Seattle is most frequently referred to as CityU. It was established in 1973 as a private college. It was designed with programmatic flexibility to support working adult learners. Their primary campus is situated in Seattle, Washington, though they have additional locations around the world, as well as an extensive online campus. They enroll over 50,000 students per year in a wide variety of Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral Programs. In 2018 The US News and World Report’s ranking for Best Online Programs featured CityU among them. They are part of the national university system.

The City University of Seattle’s  Doctor of Education degree program in Leadership  is delivered entirely online. The entire course of study is made up of 90 credit hours. This program is continuously being updated to impress upon students the current skills necessary for leadership in today’s challenging world. This course of study is flexible, ensuring that students can continue working while enrolled. There are three concentrations students can choose from including Higher Education Leadership, Organizational Leadership, and Specialized Study which can consist of Entrepreneurship, Adult Education and Online Learning, Inspired Teacher Leadership, Strategic Innovation and Decision Making, and Nonprofit and Global Leadership.

Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Leadership Cost: $$ $$$

18. Drexel University

Drexel University was established in 1891 with the original name Drexel Institute of Art, Science, and Industry. Anthony J. Drexel was a philanthropist who and financier from Philadelphia who brought the dream of this university into a reality. Their primary campus is situated in the University City neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania just two stops on the elevated subway line from Center City. They have over 70 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. Drexel enrolls over 26,000 students per year. They have been offering comprehensive online programming since 1996, and offer a variety of degrees entirely online.

Drexel University offers an online Doctorate program in Educational Leadership and Management (EDD) that is built for leaders who are interested in engaging innovative approaches to facilitating complex organizations during times of unrest. Students will research evidence-based theories that challenge antiquated leadership strategies and instead bring organizations to the forefront of contemporary collaborative discourse. The program can be engaged on a full time or part time basis, depending on if the students will be working full time while studying. Students can complete the coursework in 3-5 years. Participants will come through the program using the cohort model that enables peer support and collaboration.

Degree & Specialization: Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Management Cost: $$ $$$

19. Piedmont International University

Piedmont International University was established in 1945 as a private graduate school and bible college. They were initially called Piedmont Bible Institute and changed its name to reflect institutional growth. Their campus is situated in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, not far from the brand new minor league baseball stadium. In 2016, the Center for Online Education ranked them number 3 among the category of Best Online Colleges in North America. They are accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools. They are also a member of the American Association of Christian Colleges and Seminaries. They are currently working to obtain accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Piedmont International University’s  Ph.D. Program in Leadership that is delivered entirely online, except for a one-week residency. This program features flexibility, enabling students to participate while they continue working. The coursework supports students to integrate their life experience with their research while studying change management and effective leadership. This program is known for its affordability and its return on the investment. It can be completed in as little as three years time. The entire course of study is comprised of 60 credit hours. There are three concentrations that students can choose including Educational Administration, Ministry Administration, and Organizational Management.

Degree & Specialization: Leadership Doctor of Philosophy Cost: $ $$$$

20. Regent University

Regent University was established in 1977 as a private Christian Research school. It was founded as Christian Broadcasting Network University by evangelical leader Pat Robertson. In 1990 they took on their current name. Their campus sits on 70 acres of land in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The architecture is notable for its Neo-Georgian aesthetic. They used to have a satellite location in Alexandria, Virginia, but as of 2008, it is no longer operational. Regent offers many programs on campus as well as online that lead to associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The US News and World Report ranked Regent number 11 for Best Undergraduate Program in the nation.

Regent University offers a  Ph .D. in Organizational Leadership in Individualized Studies . They were the first university to offer an online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership in 1995. The program is offered online with a short residency component. This course of study has a Christian worldview at its foundation and based on the best research practices. Students will have the opportunity to customize their course of study to reflect their personal and professional career goals. There will be many opportunities for students to make an impact on the field of organizational leadership through research and applied theory. The School of Business & Leadership, the Regent school that operates this program, is ACBSP accredited.

Degree & Specialization: Ph.D. Organizational Leadership Cost: $ $$$$

21. Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University was established in 1873 and was named after its initial benefactor Cornelius Vanderbilt who was a rail and shipping magnate. His goal of funding the institution was to help heal those who were impacted by the Civil War. The campus is situated on 330 acres of land in Nashville, Tennessee. Their total enrollment is close to 12,600 students per year. The student body represents all of the 50 United States and more than 100 countries from around the world. They are one of the founding members of the Southeastern Conference and have been unique as a private school within the conference. Vanderbilt has many notable alumni including 26 former and current members of Congress.

Through their Department of Leadership, Policy, and Organizations Vanderbilt University offers a Doctor of Education program in Leadership and Learning in Organizations . This program encourages students to synthesize theory and practice as they work through this comprehensive program with support from leaders that are based throughout the country. Students will learn the fundamentals that lead to organizational change. The entire course of study can be completed in 36 months. The program is cohort-based, ensuring that students have many opportunities to access peer support and collaboration. The program is 54 credit hours in length and can be completed within 3 or 4 years of consistent study.

Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Leadership and Learning in Organizations Cost: $ $$$$

22. Johnson University

Johnson University was established in 1893, and their original name was The School of the Evangelists. They changed their name in 1909 to Johnson Bible College. In 2011 they took on their current name. Their campus sits on 175 acres of land in Kimberton Heights, Tennessee, just minutes from Knoxville. They also have an extensive online campus that offers many options for adult and nontraditional students who require flexibility to access education. Their offerings include Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degree programs. They hold regional and national accreditations from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Association of Biblical Higher Education.

Johnson University’s Online Ph.D. Program in Leadership Studies and Organizational Leadership  will take four years to complete. The first year includes 18 credit hours dedicated to the Leadership Core Curriculum. The second year consists of the Ethics and research curricula that accounts for 15 credit hours. Year three is made up of elective credit hours as with a deepening of research coursework, and the final year is primarily research based. Johnson is known for its affordable tuition and innovative learning opportunities. Students will be able to engage in faith-based leadership as well as gain the skills to work in a variety of organizations in leadership roles.

Degree & Specialization: Online PhD in Leadership Studies-Organizational Leadership Cost: $ $$$$

23. Pepperdine University

Pepperdine University was established in 1937 as a research institution connected to the Church of Christ. Their history began amidst the great depression and became a Christian liberal arts hub of education. Their campus is situated on 830 acres of land with views of the Pacific Ocean in unincorporated Los Angeles, California. It is just minutes from Malibu. Many have called their campus one of the most beautiful in the country. The US News and World Report has ranked them number 46 among National Universities. Most courses are taught at the main campus, though they have six additional graduate campuses and an international presence.

Pepperdine University’s online Doctor of Education in Leadership  is offered by theGraduate School of Education and Psychology. The program is delivered in a blended format 60 percent in person and 40 percent online. The face-to-face meetings generally occur two weekends each term either in Irvine or West Los Angeles. This research-oriented program will help students formulate their own best practices in leadership based on qualitative and quantitative research and application. All applicants must have achieved a master’s degree, with a GPA of 3.0 to be considered for the program. On average students complete the program in 3.5-4 years time.

Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership Cost: $ $$$$

24. Trident University

Trident University was established in 1998 as a private university, with coursework delivered exclusively online. They offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs geared specifically for students who require flexibility to engage fully in their education, which includes adult and professional learners. Their headquarters are located in Cypress, California. They are a research-based institution regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. They have just over 6,000 students enrolled in programming and over 30,000 alumni. Their enrollment is often near 75 percent military members and veterans. They offer five doctoral degrees, eight masters, and eight bachelors degree programs, as well as one associate’s program.

The Ph.D. program in Educational Leadership from Trident University is delivered 100 percent online, with no required travel or residencies. Students will learn the skills to conduct high levels of research, engage in leadership roles in teaching, and learn advanced consulting skills. Students will also learn how to develop subject matter expertise. The program embeds many opportunities for students to collaborate with faculty members, including in support of culminating dissertation and research. One thing that Trident graduates can count on is career development support and resources. They have an active Career Services Center that walks students through the process of job applications, self-assessment, and transitioning into a diverse range of career paths following graduation.

Degree & Specialization: Ph.D. in Educational Leadership Degree Cost: $ $$$$

25. University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill was established in 1798 as a result of a charter by the North Carolina General Assembly. Under the United State’s Constitution, they were the first public college or university ever chartered. They are the only school that granted higher education degrees in the eighteenth century. Their campus is situated on 729 acres of land in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and their total enrollment is close to 30,000 students. The downtown Chapel Hill location makes it easy for students to experience a college town vibe. They are considered a public Ivy School, meaning they provide the quality of education found at an Ivy League school with the price tag of a public education.

The  Executive Doctoral Program in Health Leadership at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , that is administered in the hybrid format. The majority of the coursework is delivered online; however, some campus visits are required. The program was built to meet the needs of those who are already working as healthcare professionals, abroad or in the United States, who hold the desire and ambition to play a leadership role. The minimum amount of credit hours required is 45, and the program should take three years to complete. Generall, there are around 1600 students enrolled in the program at any given time.

Degree & Specialization: Executive Doctoral Program in Health Leadership Cost: $$ $$$

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Best Online Doctorate in Leadership Programs 2025

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Get a personalized list of degree programs that fit your needs.

Created on December 28, 2021 Updated: August 29, 2024

Earning an online doctorate in leadership prepares you for a rewarding career in organizational leadership roles. Whether you are trying to level up your career, or start one, a career in organizational leadership spans a variety of sectors and work settings.

Organizational leaders are responsible for strategy development and talent management. They ensure the organization meets short-term tasks and long-term objectives. Leadership professionals work alongside upper business management. They develop the leadership strategies needed to meet defined business goals. Good leadership makes or breaks a company, an organization, or a business venture.

So are you ready to tap your leadership potential? Keep reading for the best online doctorate in leadership programs!

Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Online Leadership Doctorates

For our rankings of online programs, we consider core questions:

• Is the program accredited?
• Is the program truly online?
• Is the program fully online?
• Is the program flexible?

From those basic requirements, we consider two other factors:

• Affordability

We measure reputation according to our own unique College Consensus method.

• Washington Monthly
• Wall Street Journal
• Grad Reports
• U.S. News Reviews

When we combine all these factors, you get a ranking of the best online leadership doctorate programs in the US.

Rank	School	Cost	Score
1.		$28,844	85
2.		$4,260	N/A
3.		$7,740	N/A
4.		$9,132	58.6
5.		$12,150	N/A
6.		$32,290	69.8
7.		$9,900	N/A
8.		$16,128	N/A
9.		$16,600	N/A
10.		$36,234	61.1

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC

The University of North Carolina’s online Organizational Learning and Leadership Doctor of Education program comes from one of the best education schools in the US. The online EdD offers a flexible and collaborative environment for students.

• Fully Online
• Flexible Format
• No GRE Required to apply
• 36 months to completion

This human-centered program prepares education-industry leaders to empower their people for success.

What the Experts Say

UNC earns a score of 85 from College Consensus.

What Students Say

U.S. News student reviews show 98% satisfaction.

What the Data Says

UNC remains quite affordable for in-state students, according to NCES data.

Program Website

University of the Cumberlands Williamsburg, KY

The University of the Cumberlands offers an online PhD in Leadership Studies. This leadership doctorate is designed for educators, but with a stronger emphasis on research than an EdD degree. The program focuses on empathetic leadership, as well as program planning, assessment, and design.

• 100% online
• Flexible scheduling
• 14 possible specializations

Students can also transfer 30 hours from the Kentucky Rank 1 certification Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) program to the PhD.

Cumberlands is regionally accredited by SACSCOC.

Students are satisfied with Cumberlands, giving a 92% favorable rating on U.S. News.

100% of Cumberland students receive some form of financial aid.

Liberty University Lynchburg, VA

Liberty University offers a fully online Doctor of Strategic Leadership program. As a Christian college, Liberty’s leadership doctorate focuses on servant leadership and biblical principals. Leadership grads can apply their learning to a variety of businesses and organizations, from churches and Christian schools to business and entrepreneurship.

• No set login times
• Finish faster than on-campus

Liberty also accepts as much as 50% transfer from a related graduate degree.

Liberty University is widely considered a military-friendly school.

Liberty has a 70 Student Consensus score, but scores on Unigo and Niche are much higher.

99% of applicants are admitted to Liberty.

Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College Baton Rouge, LA

Louisiana State University’s online Leadership Studies doctorate is designed for educators who want to move into leadership positions. This fully online program offers flexible scheduling, with multiple start dates throughout the year and accelerated coursework.

• Fully online
• Flexible format
• Dedicated coach support

Students have the chance to assist faculty on research projects for publication and conference presentations.

LSU is one of the leading research universities in the South.

Students have awarded LSU a Student Consensus score of 75.5.

Louisiana State admits 74% of applicants.

Thomas Edison State University Trenton, NJ

Thomas Edison State University’s Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Organizational Leadership can be completed entirely online. Students also get one-to-one online mentoring included. Thomas Edison State University’s Doctorate of Leadership online program requires 48 credits, of which six may be transferred, if eligible.

• One-on-one mentoring
• Cohort-based

TESU’s online doctorate in organizational leadership includes courses in Empirical Entrepreneurship, Law, Ethics, & Global Society, and Organizational Consulting, to name a few.

TESU’s open admissions policy gives students from all backgrounds a chance to shine.

TESU has a Student Consensus score of 83, with a perfect 100 from U.S. News.

TESU graduates have a 0% student loan default rate.

Degree Website

University of Arizona Tucson, AZ

The University of Arizona Forbes School of Business & Technology offers a PhD in Organizational Development and Leadership. Arizona’s doctorate ranks among the most innovative online PhD leadership programs in the marketplace. Students learn to apply human performance technology to evaluate their solutions to organizational problems.

• Flexible scheduling – one course at a time
• Transfer up to 30 credits toward 62
• 6 specialization courses

Note there are several in-residence workshops required, and students must maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA. Core classes include leading organizational change and human resources business strategy.

University of Arizona has solid recommendations from publishers.

With a Student Consensus score of 81.8, graduates are very satisfied with UA.

University of Arizona admits 87% of applicants.

Johnson University Knoxville, TN

Johnson University offers an interdisciplinary, fully online PhD in Leadership Studies. Johnson University’s Doctorate of Leadership online program offers concentrations in the Philosophy of Leadership, Educational Leadership, Missional Leadership, Organizational Leadership, Ministry Leadership, and Theology of Leadership.

• 6 concentrations
• Scholarships available

As a Christian college, Johnson University’s doctorate is especially focused on ethics and service.

Johnson earns a score of 88 from U.S. News among regional universities.

Students at Unigo rate Johnson U a 95.7.

96% of students receive some form of financial aid.

Regent University Virginia Beach, VA

Regent University has offered the Doctorate of Leadership online since 1995. Regent University’s Doctor of Philosophy degree program offers degree candidates academic concentrations in organizational leadership, ecclesial leadership and human resource development

• Mentorship available
• No GMAT/GRE requirement

Feature online courses for Regent’s Ph.D. leadership program include advanced analysis, exegetical research methods, group behavior, and contemporary perspectives in organizational management theory.

Regent has been regularly ranked as a top regional college by U.S. News.

Students on Unigo give Regent an 83 review.

91% of Regent students receive grants or scholarships.

University of Charleston Charleston, WV

The Doctor of Executive Leadership program at the University of Charleston offers something different. Where other leadership programs are designed for those who want to be leaders, Charleston’s doctorate focuses on preparing mid- and high-level leaders for executive positions.

• Requires annual one-week residency
• All-online coursework
• Interdisciplinary

Charleston’s program focuses on integrating theory and practice for quality leadership.

University of Charleston is recognized by U.S. News as one of the best regional universities.

Charleston is rated over 80% by students on Unigo and Grad Reports.

100% of students at University of Charleston receive financial aid.

Drexel University Philadelphia, PA

Drexel University’s EdD in Educational Leadership & Management prepares educators to be leaders in the field. With no residency requirements, students can earn their degree entirely online. Part-time students can complete the EdD in as little as 3 years.

• 10 possible concentrations
• Mentoring and Coaching program for all first-year students

Drexel’s cohort model allows students to build their network and connect for future success.

Drexel has a Consensus score of 48.4.

Students are largely satisfied with Drexel: 73.8 Student Consensus score.

99% of Drexel students receive grants or scholarships.

Online Doctorate in Leadership Programs

The curriculum for online PhD programs in leadership varies from school to school. Sometimes, the curriculum varies from student to student, depending on your personal interests and strengths. Candidates hone the skills required to lead organizational systems as a leadership professional. Most online programs also include an experiential component like an externship or fellowship.

A terminal business leadership degree program will include certain leadership coursework. They allow students to focus on an area of interest related to this leadership degree. These areas is apply to the student’s career objectives.

Doctoral students may submit a dissertation that focuses on a relevant leadership knowledge and concepts. A dissertation includes original research. It is a formal presentation of the degree candidate’s findings.

Most online PhD programs in Leadership take somewhere from three to five years. This depends on the degree candidate’s time commitment. Concentrations may include –

• Organizational Design
• Educational Law and Finance
• Strategic Management of Nonprofit Organizations
• Collaborative Leadership and Partnership
• Leadership Theories and Practice

Take the time you need before deciding on the leadership program you wish to attend because the selected program largely depends on your education and career objectives.

Is a Doctorate in Leadership Worth It?

Students should consider the time, effort, and expense of a doctorate in organizational leadership. Your analysis should center on their interests, experience, and future goals.

Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership programs are for professionals looking to advance careers. A secondary goal is to grow.

Professional leaders tend to have similar qualities – especially an entrepreneurial mindset. They also own a mentality and approach that inspires and leads to innovation. An online doctorate in leadership helps you hone your skills and knowledge to a high level of expertise. And that expertise can be useful across a wide range of industries.

Earning a doctorate in organizational leadership online degree opens up job opportunities in many sectors.

• Organizational Design & Work Flow – explores the aspects of procedural workflow to create strategic advantages.
• Nonprofit Strategic Management – explores viable strategic practices to track, sustain, and improve organizational learning, growth, and efficiency.
• Higher Education in Law & Finance – explores contemporary legal and financial issues in coursework for schools. This includes the primary, secondary and postsecondary levels. Classes include many topics and stress critical thinking. Students study forecasting and corporate financial analysis that affect positive organizational change.
• The Theory & Practice of Leadership  – explores the qualities that define an effective leader. This is independent of the organization or sector. Doctoral students conduct research and test leadership practices against the theory.
• Collaborative Leadership Across Organizational Settings – explores managerial/collaborative techniques and philosophical theories. These components best manage partnerships and other ownership entities. Degree candidates study the theories of organizational stewardship. They work as a team member – but from a leadership perspective.

Why Should I Get My Leadership Doctorate Online?

Many students and other working professionals have their sights set on a high-level leadership career. If you’re a busy professional who wants to climb the ladder, consider a quality online doctorate in organizational leadership program.

Doctoral programs in organizational leadership have flexible formats. They meet the needs of working professionals. Many business schools offer online PhD programs in Leadership with a low-residency intensive. Others may be available completely online, depending on the doctoral specialty selected.

Doctoral leadership degrees are versatile as well. A wide variety of industries and organizations consider a doctorate in leadership in high demand. Leadership degrees create entrepreneurs who have a competitive advantage. They have an opportunity to affect change with a company, agency, or organization.

A leadership doctorate earned online prepares professionals to affect organizational culture. It offers you the motivational techniques and managerial strategies to lead change. An organizational leader helps to solve organizational challenges amid changing market demands.

They distribute company resources and manage available talent. This degree offers expertise in organizational leadership theory and advanced research in change management.

Graduates with a Ph.D. in organizational leadership can pursue in-demand roles. They can become training and development managers. There are also other leadership roles, discussed below.

What Can I Do with a Leadership Doctoral Degree?

Graduates holding a Doctorate in Leadership online degree find rewarding upper-level management careers. These roles span economic sectors and industries. Students decide the direction and focus of their doctoral work. This can lead to these careers like:

Organization Management

An online PhD program in Leadership builds graduates’ managerial skills. Organizational managers lead many different types of businesses and public, nonprofit or private organizations. Organizational management leaders are adept and influencing teams and employees. They improve operations and the efficiency of the company’s resources. Leadership professionals are experts in implementing change in a change-resistant organization or person.

Human Resource Management

Organizational leadership online programs feature coursework dealing with human resource tasks. Human resource leaders have the skills to manage employee recruitment and development. They deal with development and other tasks keeping the workforce productive and satisfied.

Training & Leadership Development

Organizational leaders are expert motivators. They have excellent skills in empowering others to reach for company objectives. These leaders also specialize in the education of adult learners. They work as lecturers, motivational speakers, educators, or instructional designers. Leadership professionals may work as consultants for different firms. They can lead a department within a corporation.

Higher Education Administration

An Online PhD in Education Leadership program prepares graduates for the future. They work in careers in postsecondary and other higher education institutions. Doctoral degree holders work in the development, strategic planning & implementation of advanced degree programs. They could hold an administrative role, such as a provost, dean, or director. These education doctoral degrees prepare grads for professorship positions and higher education leadership. They may teach classes in strategic leadership, basic adult ed, or ESL.

How Much Can I Make with a Doctorate in Leadership?

A Doctorate in Leadership online degree program offers professionals many career directions. They work across industries. Salaries and compensation packages for leadership professionals at the doctorate level vary. The following represents a cross-section of careers for leadership doctoral degree holders.

Position	Average Salary
Chief Executive Officer	$258,900
Compensation & Benefits Manager	$136,380
Human Resources Manager	$136,350
Training & Development Manager	$125,040
Top Executives	$103,840
Administrative Services Manager	$104,900
Postsecondary Business Professor/Teacher	$113,240
Management Analysts/Consultants	$99,410
Operations Research Analyst	$83,640
Corporate Trainer & Development Specialist	$64,340

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10 Best Online Ed­u­ca­tion­al Leadership Ed.D.

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Doctor of Philosophy

The PhD in Leadership has been recognized as one of the top online doctorate programs in organizational leadership degree programs in 2024 by Intelligent.com . The program is designed to provide advanced capabilities for scholars and practitioners alike in an area of immense interest in contemporary society. It is well recognized that organizational success or failure is closely connected to leadership. However, there is debate about what constitutes good leadership and how much it may vary depending upon the context or domain within which it is practiced. Similarly, there are a variety of mechanisms currently being employed to identify good leaders and to assist those in leadership roles to become better leaders with varying degrees of success.

Students in the program will be exposed to advanced bodies of knowledge in the attributes essential to good leadership and in the processes likely to identify and develop it. They will also gain a mastery of leadership theories and practices applicable to an array of professional contexts. In addition, students will learn advanced research methods both qualitative and quantitative, and progress to completing a dissertation that produces original scholarship.

The program can be completed with a concentration (area of focus) or otherwise. Students can choose to specialize in an area by completing 9 credits of coursework in that area. Concentrations are available in the following areas: Ministry ; Justice ; Technology ; Politics ; Healthcare Administration ; International Relations ; Sociology ; Communications ; Business ; Public Administration . Those who are not interested in a concentration can complete the program by choosing courses from diverse areas without being limited to any one area. Students who opt for a concentration must complete their dissertation in a topic that fits within the concentration after approval by their chair. Students who choose not to do a concentration can write their dissertation in any aspect of leadership after appropriate consultation and approval by their dissertation chair.

• Synthesize, evaluate, and contextualize leadership approaches and theories
• Choose and create an original, scholarly research project culminating in a written, presented, and orally defended dissertation that advances leadership theories and contributes substantively to the body of knowledge in the student's chosen concentration
• Demonstrate a high level of comprehension of leadership theory through practical individual and organizational application
• Analyze social, political, economic, religious, and organizational events relative to the influence of leaders and leadership approaches
• Integrate scholarly research and leadership skills by putting theory into practice

Admissions Requirements

• Completed application
• Master's degree or equivalent from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.00 cumulative GPA
• Official transcripts from previously attended institutions
• No GMAT or GRE required

*For questions regarding the program or transfer credits, please contact Trudy Owens at [email protected]

© 2019-2024 Carolina University

PhD in Organizational Leadership

48 credit hours

Program Length

as few as 27 months

Accreditation

Regionally Accredited by SACSCOC

Empower Change with Your PhD in Organizational Leadership  

Columbia International University’s PhD in Organizational Leadership will foster your growth and development as an exceptional leader by honing your knowledge, skills and vision to drive meaningful change in today’s dynamic organizational landscape. CIU’s 27 month program is designed to equip you with a deep understanding of leadership theories, research methodologies and practical applications. By immersing yourself in this rigorous academic journey, you will gain the expertise needed to tackle the complex challenges faced by organizations across various industries. 

As a student in CIU’s program, you will have the opportunity to learn from distinguished faculty members who are both accomplished scholars and experienced practitioners in the field of organizational leadership. Their mentorship and guidance will enable you to develop a comprehensive skill set and a nuanced understanding of effective leadership strategies. We believe in the power of research to transform organizations and shape the future of leadership. In CIU’s PhD program, you will have the flexibility to explore your research interests and contribute to the advancement of the field. Whether your passion lies in leadership development, diversity and inclusion, organizational culture or other areas of study, you will have the resources and support necessary to pursue groundbreaking research that makes a tangible impact. 

At Columbia International University, we value diversity and foster a multicultural learning environment. You will join a vibrant community of scholars and fellow students who bring unique perspectives and experiences to the table. Through engaging discussions, collaborative projects and cross-cultural interactions, you will broaden your horizons and enhance your ability to lead effectively in diverse settings. Our program also emphasizes the importance of networking and professional connections with fellow students. These connections will not only enrich your academic experience but also open doors to potential career opportunities and collaborations. 

By pursuing a PhD in Organizational Leadership at Columbia International University, you are embarking on a transformative journey that will empower you to make a significant impact in the realm of leadership. We invite you to join our community of scholars and practitioners, where you will gain the skills, knowledge and connections necessary to excel as a leader in today’s fast-paced and evolving organizations. 

Are you ready to unlock your full leadership potential? Discover the endless possibilities that await you in Columbia International University’s PhD in Organizational Leadership program.   

Alumnus Darryl Wilkerson

Why Choose Columbia International University

Ethical Perspective : In pursuing a PhD in Organizational Leadership at CIU, you will benefit from a learning environment that integrates faith, ethics and values into the study of leadership. Our faculty and curriculum will guide you in exploring how eternal principles inform and enhance your understanding of leadership, enabling you to approach organizational challenges with integrity, compassion and a servant-leadership mindset. 

Expert Faculty : Our faculty members are not only accomplished scholars but also experienced practitioners in the field of organizational leadership. With a wealth of real-world experience, they bring a unique blend of academic rigor and practical insights to the classroom. Their mentorship, guidance and commitment to your success will help you develop the essential leadership competencies and critical thinking skills required to excel in today’s complex organizational environments. 

Rigorous Curriculum : CIU’s PhD program in Organizational Leadership features a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum that prepares you to tackle the multifaceted challenges of leadership in the 21st century. Through a blend of foundational courses and research-focused modules, you will gain a deep understanding of leadership theories, research methodologies and practical applications. Our curriculum is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to the scholarly body of organizational leadership literature and make a significant impact in your chosen field. 

Research Opportunities : As a student, you will have access to state-of-the-art resources, research centers and academic networks that facilitate in-depth exploration and scholarly inquiry. Our faculty members will provide guidance and support as you develop your own research agenda. Whether you aim to contribute to theoretical advancements or address practical challenges within organizations, CIU’s program will empower you to conduct meaningful research and generate insights that can drive positive change. 

Collaborative Learning Environment : At Columbia International University, we foster a collaborative and supportive learning environment. As a PhD student in Organizational Leadership, you will have the opportunity to engage with a diverse community of scholars and practitioners who share your passion for leadership. Through discussions and peer feedback, you will refine your ideas, broaden your perspectives and benefit from the collective wisdom of your peers. These interactions will not only enrich your academic experience but also forge lifelong connections with fellow leaders and potential research collaborators. 

Flexibility and Personalization : We understand that every student has unique interests and career aspirations. Our program offers flexibility and customization, allowing you to tailor your studies to align with your specific research interests and professional goals within the field of organizational leadership. Whether you wish to specialize in areas such as leadership development, organizational culture, change management or other domains, our faculty will work closely with you to create a program of study that suits your individual needs. 

Global Perspective : In an increasingly interconnected world, leaders must possess a global mindset. Columbia International University celebrates diversity and promotes a global perspective within the PhD program in Organizational Leadership. You will have the opportunity to engage with a diverse student body, representing various cultural backgrounds and perspectives. This exposure to different worldviews and cross-cultural interactions will enhance your intercultural competency, broaden your understanding of leadership in a global context and prepare you to navigate the complexities of leading diverse teams and organizations. 

By choosing Columbia International University for your PhD in Organizational Leadership, you will join an academic community dedicated to nurturing exceptional leaders who are grounded in faith, equipped with expertise and prepared to make a positive impact in the world of organizations. With our distinctive Christian perspective, expert faculty, rigorous curriculum, research opportunities, collaborative learning environment, flexibility and global perspective, CIU provides an ideal platform for your academic and professional growth in the field of organizational leadership.   

Overall Benefits of this Degree

Earning a PhD in Organizational Leadership from Columbia International University offers a multitude of benefits and opens diverse career opportunities. 

Advanced Leadership Expertise : The program equips you with an advanced understanding of leadership theories, research methodologies and practical applications. You will gain a deep knowledge of effective leadership strategies, organizational dynamics and change management techniques. This expertise will enhance your ability to lead with confidence, make informed decisions and drive positive change within organizations. 

Research and Consulting Opportunities : A PhD in Organizational Leadership paves the way for research and consulting careers. You can pursue academic positions as a professor, researcher or scholar, conducting cutting-edge research and contributing to the field’s knowledge base. Additionally, you can offer consulting services to organizations seeking expertise in leadership development, organizational culture or change management. These opportunities allow you to have a direct impact on organizations, contribute to the advancement of knowledge, and shape the future of leadership practice. 

Thought Leadership and Publication : With a PhD in Organizational Leadership, you have the platform and credibility to become a thought leader in the field. You can contribute to the scholarly community through publications in academic journals, books and conference presentations. Your research findings, theories and practical insights can influence the discourse surrounding leadership and make a lasting impact on the field’s development. 

Personal Growth and Fulfillment : Pursuing a PhD in Organizational Leadership is not only a professional endeavor but also a personal journey of growth and self-discovery. The program challenges you to think critically, expand your intellectual horizons and refine your leadership philosophy. It provides a platform for personal development, enhancing your communication skills, critical thinking abilities and capacity for empathy. This personal growth enriches all aspects of your life, equipping you to be a more effective leader in both professional and personal contexts. 

CIU’s PhD in Organizational Leadership offers advanced leadership expertise, diverse career opportunities, research and consulting prospects, thought leadership potential and the ability to drive organizational transformation. It is a transformative journey that prepares you to make a significant impact on organizations and society.   

What Will I Study?

Our journey into the realm of effective organizational leadership begins with an analysis of the biblical, historical, and contemporary leadership model of Steward Leadership. Steward leaders understand how to transform themselves, others and the organizations they lead. This course will provide a framework for leaders to utilize as they lead their organizations with excellence.

This course explores theories informing effective leadership including motivation, decision-making, organizational change, and organizational systems. Further, this course examines the relationship dynamics which occur in organizations between leaders and followers.

This course examines practical principles guiding effective organizational team-building. Principles for building a leadership team, evaluating team performance, avoiding common problems many teams experience, and managing group dynamics, including promoting necessary conflict are discussed.

This course examines the principles of effective board governance. These principles include discussion about the fiduciary, strategic and generative leadership roles of board members. This course will serve as a guide for organizational leaders who work with boards as well as those serving as board members. Specifically, this course will explain in detail what works and why.

This course is designed to introduce students to descriptive and inferential statistics and how these statistics are employed in conducting research studies. Emphasis in this course will be placed upon helping students gain an understanding of the basic principles of statistics and how these principles apply to real life settings.

This course equips students with the research tools required to design the study of a doctoral dissertation. It prepares students to select a topic, review literature, design a study, and collect data, analyze and interpret data, and report and evaluate research.

This course is designed to equip students to analyze and interpret data, report and evaluate research. Simply put, students will learn how to organize data and then interpret that data in order to make sense from the findings via an understanding of what dissertation results actually mean.

In this course, students will create a problem statement. This problem statement will guide their research as they collect data and complete a dissertation. The problem statement will be clear, concise and practical.

In this course, students will build on the work done in LDR 9940 to complete the first draft of the dissertation proposal. Students will work with their advisors to produce their papers.

In this course, the students will revise and edit the proposals to become dissertation documents.

In this course, students will complete and successfully defend doctoral dissertation proposals.

In this course, candidates will initiate, conduct and complete their research. Students will then complete a draft of the final two chapters of their dissertations.

In this course, candidates will complete the writing of their doctoral dissertations.

In this course, candidates will defend and post for public access doctoral dissertations.

This course serves as a guide for leading organizational change from ideation to implementation. A model for strategic planning will be introduced. Practical tools and techniques for leading specific steps in the strategic planning process will be explained, and leaders will be equipped to effectively guide the entire deliberative and collaborative strategic planning process.

This course examines best practices of exemplary leaders when they are functioning at their best. The focus of the course will be on actions and behaviors of effective leaders. The fundamentals of outstanding leadership will be explored in detail. This course will provide a field guide for leaders committed to becoming the best that they can be.

This course explores the importance of institutional advancement for all organizations. Principles of finance will be discussed in detail, and students will gain a practical understanding of the fundamentals of each of the primary reports essential to providing effective fiduciary leadership for organizations.

This course examines best practice in creating and leading effective organizations. Most workers do not work alone. Most work for organizations. These organizations must be led, and this course prepares these leaders to achieve results.

Admission Requirements

• Completed application
• Official transcripts for highest earned graduate degree
• Academic writing sample (Master’s thesis or graduate research paper)
• CV or Resume that demonstrates 3–5 years of leadership experience
• Minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA

Accreditation and Accolades

Career Path Opportunities 

• Chief Executive Officer (CEO) 
• Chief Organizational Officer (COO) 
• Organizational Development Consultant 
• Leadership Development Specialist 
• Change Management Consultant 
• Human Resources Director 
• Director of Organizational Effectiveness 
• Nonprofit Executive Director 
• Leadership Coach or Mentor 
• Higher Education Administrator 
• Researcher or Professor in Organizational Leadership 
• Talent Management Consultant 
• Diversity and Inclusion Specialist 
• Strategic Planning Consultant 
• Executive Leadership Trainer   

A PhD in Organizational Leadership is highly regarded in various professional settings. This degree is extremely versatile and applicable to every type of organizational setting. Alumni work in all sectors as organizational leaders, including business (both for-profit and non-profit), healthcare, ministry, government, military, and education (public, private, and higher education). Many of our alumni hold high positions of leadership in their organizations, including CEO, President, and other C Suite positions. 

This degree has content course assignments that can meet a person at their individual organization setting, and each student's dissertation topic is catered to the individual's area of interest and expertise.

The program is designed to be completed in 27 months. In extenuating circumstances, a student may petition for additional time to complete the program of study.

Yes, our program is designed to accommodate the needs of working professionals, making it feasible to pursue the PhD program while continuing to work full-time. This flexibility enables you to apply your newly acquired knowledge and skills directly to your professional context, creating a synergistic learning experience.

Please check the Tuition and Fees page for the most up-to-date information. There are certain discounts and benefits given for military status and to employees and family members of our partner organizations. Our financial aid counselors will help you determine the best way to finance this important investment in your future career earnings. For more detailed information, check our Financial Aid page and select the option for online students here.

Students should plan around 15-20 hours of study per week. A typical week would be completing an initial content discussion post by Wednesday night. 2 content response posts are due on Saturday night.

Most courses end with a capstone project. While taking courses, we have woven the writing of the dissertation step by step into the program of study to ensure that students graduate early and on time. 

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Doctor of Business Administration

Are you ready to transform your life?

Earn Your NYU Doctorate in Leadership and Innovation.

Organizational change starts with an online doctorate in leadership and innovation from NYU. Leverage your knowledge and skills in transformational leadership roles to create new, sustainable solutions to systemic institutional challenges with your EdD.

Applications must be completed by September 11.

Our online leadership and innovation doctorate at a glance

Blending academic theory and real-world practice, NYU Steinhardt’s EdD in Leadership and Innovation is more than an online degree. It’s a unique program that provides working professionals with the tools to harness transformative change in their organizations and beyond.

three-day immersive residency at a global NYU site

hours per week

Average time commitment, including classes, will vary

total credits at the doctoral level

per credit hour

Based on 2024–2025 tuition rates

Minimum time to degree completion 1

EdD program overview

NYU Steinhardt’s EdD in Leadership and Innovation is more than a doctorate program. It’s a cohort of professionals, faculty , and distinguished cross-sectoral leaders from spaces such as:

• For-profit companies
• Higher education
• Nonprofit and philanthropic organizations
• Public and governmental organizations

We examine the most important issues cross-sectoral leaders face today and discover solutions that make change possible for tomorrow. We apply an academic lens to myriad sectors so students graduate from the doctoral program with the core competencies for impactful director and executive-level career options.

The research, analysis, writing, and critical thinking involved in students’ strategic design and implementation of a change management project are assets that students will bring to current and future employers.

The Problem of Practice

While many doctoral programs require students to complete a dissertation, NYU Steinhardt challenges students to examine and create an academically informed solution to a persistent organizational problem throughout the EdD program. This unique project is called the Problem of Practice (POP) , and it enables students to create real value for their organizations.

“We want students to have a collaborative experience in which they ignite a transformation in education from across sectors.” DR. NOEL S. ANDERSON FOUNDING FACULTY

Explore the cohort model design

When students work together, they leverage their unique leadership skills and professional experiences to develop new ideas and effect sustainable change. That’s why the cohort model is a defining feature of NYU Steinhardt’s EdD in Leadership and Innovation program. Traveling the curriculum together, students develop a common problem-solving language and discover new solutions to old challenges. Best of all, since courses run continuously through Summer and January terms, students earn their degree in 24–28 months, a duration that’s among the shortest in the country relative to other education doctorates.

Great minds, thinking differently

Our program unites experienced professionals from diverse backgrounds who share their unique perspectives on real-world challenges. By giving them the space to question, explore, and take risks, we foster innovation, resulting in new solutions to persistent organizational problems.

A collaborative system of support

For the duration of the program, faculty serve as mentors, supporters, challengers, and advocates, bringing decades of leadership experience to their partnership with students.

Built for immediate action

Students can complete their degree in as few as 24 continuous months, preparing them to create sustainable and scalable change at their organizations in their leadership roles.

Who is this program for?

The NYU online Doctorate in Leadership and Innovation is different by design. More than an educational leadership program, it’s a global cohort of cross-sector professionals motivated to create real change in their fields. Diverse leaders from the worlds of business, government, nonprofits, healthcare, and education seek out our program to be challenged to think beyond their areas of expertise – and to create new solutions and catalyze change in their organizations.

Current and former students’ employers include:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• The World Bank
• NYC Department
of Education
• The Millennium School – Dubai

Current and former students’ job titles include:

• Chief executive officer
• Chief learning officer
• Senior director of global security
• Head of diversity, equity & inclusion
• Program manager, behavioral health
• Military officer
• Director, office of educational assessment
• Adjunct faculty

Students represent a global cohort whose diverse voices are informed not only by the work they do, but from lived experiences around the world. 

The NYU EdD addresses the needs of full-time working professionals with a rigorous online Doctorate in Leadership and Innovation program that can be completed in as few as 24 months.

Three-day immersive residency

At the beginning of the program, your cohort will convene at NYU to meet, discuss your professional experiences, and examine the persistent challenges you face in your organizations. The residency will deepen students’ connections with peers and faculty and help serve as a foundation for the EdD curriculum.

Designed as a cohort model, our 42-credit curriculum includes 17 consecutive courses that can be completed in as few as 24 months. Students continue working while earning their degree, examining and solving a persistent challenge in their organization throughout the program.

Problem of Practice (POP)

Rather than completing a traditional dissertation, you will identify a persistent problem in your organization and examine it through an academic lens throughout the program, emerging with a thoroughly researched, actionable solution that creates real value for your organization.

Frequently asked questions

Finding the right EdD program to expand and leverage your leadership skills is essential to your success. To aid in this decision-making process, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about eligibility, tuition, courses, and more.

Admission requirements

To be eligible for the EdD in Leadership and Innovation program, you must hold both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. You must also have seven years of work experience in a leadership role. The GRE is not required for admission.

Learn how to solve institutional challenges with NYU’s EdD

1 Total time to complete the program may vary based on the number of credits taken each semester.

Tell us about yourself.

Sharing some details will help us customize your experience.

• Online MSN to DNP
• Online BSN to DNP Health Care Leadership Administration
• Executive Doctoral Program in Health Leadership
• Ed.D. in Organizational Learning and Leadership
• Master in Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Applied Data Science (MADS)
• Master of Professional Science (MPS) in Biomedical and Health Informatics (BMHI)
• Master of Public Administration (MPA)
• Master of Public Health (MPH)
• Professional Science Master’s (PSM) degree in Digital Curation and Management
• Master’s in Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Master of Professional Science (MPS) in Regulatory Science
• Master of Accounting
• Master in Digital Communication
• Master’s in Radiologic Science
• Master in Clinical Laboratory Science
• Master of Healthcare Administration
• Master of Social Work (MSW)
• MSN Health Care Leadership & Administration
• UNDERGRADUATE
• Certificate in Data Analytics & Decision Making
• Certificate in Entrepreneurship & Strategy
• Certificate in Finance
• Certificate in Leadership Development
• Paralegal Certificate
• Public Health Leadership Certificate
• Coding Boot Camp
• Data Analytics Boot Camp
• Digital Marketing Boot Camp
• Emergency Management Certificate
• Global Health Certificate
• Epidemiology Certificate
• PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION

UNC Online / Online Doctoral Programs / The Online Ed.D. concentration in Organizational Learning and Leadership

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Ed.D. CONCENTRATION in Organizational Learning and Leadership | Online University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Ed.D. CONCENTRATION in Organizational Learning and Leadership | Online University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Ed.D. CONCENTRATION in Organizational Learning and Leadership | Online

Step up as a leader of tomorrow with the knowledge, skills and experiences needed to empower those around you and guide organizations to achieve transformational goals. Step up as a leader of tomorrow with the knowledge, skills and experiences needed to empower those around you and guide organizations to achieve transformational goals. Step up as a leader of tomorrow with the knowledge, skills and experiences needed to empower those around you and guide organizations to achieve transformational goals.

Get Admission and Tuition Information

Answer a few quick questions to determine if the Ed.D. concentration in Organizational Learning and Leadership program is a good fit for you.

No GRE/GMAT scores required

• Top-ranked school — Join the #25 best school of education in the U.S. 1
• No master’s degree required — Apply with your bachelor’s degree and three years of leadership experience.
• Flexible schedule — Study part time to pursue your educational goals while you advance your career. 

Achieve Organizational Goals Through Human-centered Leadership

The online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Organizational Learning and Leadership offered by the UNC School of Education empowers working professionals with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to achieve organizational goals through a human-centered approach to leadership.

Through flexible and collaborative online classes, aspiring leaders learn to implement and foster high-quality practices and cultures to achieve organizational goals and exceed expectations for professional growth.

Request More Information

The online ed.d. at a glance.

No master’s or GRE required

54 credit hours

36 months to complete

Ed.D. concentration in Organizational Learning and Leadership Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to equip students with the tools they need to empower the people around them to deliver on their organization’s goals and mission.

The 54-credit hour program consists of 17 courses, including a capstone project that asks students to explore a relevant organizational challenge based on their experiences.

An optional in-person immersion experience is available each spring semester to enrich the academic journey for students.

Learning Outcomes

The online Ed.D. concentration in Organizational Learning and Leadership prepares students to create organizational cultures that welcome diverse perspectives, lead organizations toward equitable practice, and empower people within their organization to succeed. Students will learn to:

• Apply a wide array of styles, strategies, and theories to effectively lead organizations to learn, improve, and change.
• Create an organizational culture where diverse voices and perspectives are invited, considered, and empowered to contribute to learning and improvement. 
• Recognize and attend to organizational context through its stakeholder groups and organizational networks to effectively manage organizations within complex systems and improve those systems for the better.
• Assess organizational structure and context including key organizational resources, internal and external stakeholders and the relationships among them, and the sources of organizational power to change systems for the better.
• Collect, analyze, and use data and evidence to evaluate and reflect on the process of organizational learning and make ethical and effective choices for organizational advancement.

Admissions — Online Ed.D. CONCENTRATION in Organizational Learning and Leadership

The online Ed.D. program offers three start dates per year: January, May, and August. The UNC School of Education seeks applicants with a genuine interest in leadership and who are passionate about empowering people in their organization. A master’s degree and GRE/GMAT scores are not required.

Admissions Requirements: 

• Minimum of three years of management or leadership experience in a professional work setting
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0; less than 3.0 will require an explanation to accompany your application

See admissions criteria and application requirements.

Learn about tuition & financial aid options.

The Online Experience

A complex world calls for flexible learning designed to meet the needs of a global workplace. In the online Ed.D. concentration in Organizational Learning and Leadership, students will find an intuitive platform, comprehensive support, and top-notch education designed for real people with real lives.

• Attend weekly face-to-face classes , held on Zoom, that allow for rich discussion and debate with peers and faculty.
• Complete interactive assignments , using a customizable platform that follows best practices for online learning. 
• Meet faculty and peers at optional in-person immersions , where you’ll network and apply what you’ve learned. 
• Access full-spectrum career services , including interview prep, one-on-one coaching, self-assessments, and salary resources.
• Connect with a student success advisor , who will serve as your dedicated partner throughout the program.

UNC School of Education Faculty

UNC School of Education faculty members in the Ed.D. concentration in Organizational Learning and Leadership are committed to empowering the next generation of responsible and passionate organizational leaders. Our exceptional faculty members have expertise in organizational change and implementation science, evaluation, and leadership, making the Ed.D. concentration in Organizational Learning and Leadership a unique program where faculty provide students with the tools needed to be successful in the pursuit of a doctorate degree and in accessing professional opportunities. This program was designed and launched to help students acquire the skills needed in leadership within organizations and directly apply them in the field, making a difference across multiple industries in organizations.

Sample Course Descriptions

The 54-credit lockstep curriculum is composed of 17 courses which include a culminating series of capstone seminars. Each term is 13 weeks long. Courses and/or descriptions subject to change.

Foundations of Leadership 

This course engages in a systematic examination of leadership in practice and how these examples result in successful leadership practices relative to theories of leadership, ethical frameworks, and a student’s personal strengths and abilities. From these reflections, each student will develop an intellectually rigorous, personal statement of leadership.

Foundations of Inquiry — Quantitative

Quantitative data is a resource for problems and identifying solutions. In order to make informed decisions in organizational leadership, it is crucial to be able to understand quantitative information about organizations and interpret data. In their career as an organizational leader, students will likely participate in quantitative analysis of data as well as be expected to review and understand a variety of quantitative studies which may influence decision-making in their workplace. Individuals who are able to discern and understand patterns and trends in quantitative data are valuable employees; they should also be able to formulate research questions and identify problems of practice for organizational improvement. This course will prepare students for all of these tasks.

Foundations of Inquiry — Qualitative

Foundations of Inquiry – Qualitative Methods is a graduate-level course designed to support students in developing an understanding of qualitative research methods and designs. The focus of this course is on the creation of research questions, the development of qualitative designs, employment of data collection approaches, and analysis procedures to address those problems. Given the allocation of time, the course will not include the full breadth of data collection methods or in-depth analysis techniques.

Leading Organizations Toward Equitable Practice 

This course will provide the foundational knowledge for creating, sustaining, and leading an inclusive culture within organizations. Students will learn to incorporate multiple stakeholders’ voices within and outside the organization through an equity-minded leadership lens. The course will place a strong emphasis on collaboration and coalition building within organizations to create an effective organizational culture in which all stakeholders can thrive.

Applied Quantitative Methods

This course will focus on quantitative/qualitative forms of inquiry, highlighting the types of questions quantitative/qualitative data are best positioned to answer and common forms of data collection and analysis. To foster each student’s development as a scholar-practitioner, the courses will provide them with the foundational knowledge to be a discerning consumer of qualitative and quantitative research and help them find the tools to answer their own well-formed practice-based research questions.

Organizational Theory

This course is designed to acquaint the student with theories of organization so that the student can begin to see principles which lie behind system architecture in which people, structures, duties, skills and role relationships can be juxtaposed and configured and re-configured as a matter of matching organizational functioning to the tasks facing a variety of educational organizations. It is also a course which will consider the structure and use of power in organizational life to force bureaucratic change, internally or externally. An expected outcome will be that the student begins to understand how structure, culture, context, and power interact within and without educational and other organizations.

Applied Qualitative Methods

Change leadership and systems improvement.

In this course, students are introduced to and apply knowledge, skills, tools, and dispositions drawn from improvement science, organizational theory, change agency/psychology of change, strategic doing, relational leadership, team science, cycled learning, and collective impact that support the development of learning systems (in government, health care, education, social services, and industry) capable of bringing about their own continuous transformation. Students will engage with faculty from across campus in interprofessional learning opportunities, including panel discussions, interviews, case study, project-based learning, tool application, and team-based activities.

Program Evaluation

This course introduces the concepts, principles, and methods underlying the evaluation of interventions, practices, and programs in organizational contexts. Students will study different approaches to evaluation design, data collection and analysis, and the reporting of results. The course will also consider the ethics and use of evaluation in organizations. Students will apply this learning to the design and implementation of a practice-based evaluation.

Prerequisites: Foundations of Inquiry (Quant and Qual)

Design Thinking for the Public Good 

In this course, students learn to apply the mindsets, methods, and processes associated with design thinking (i.e., human-centered design) to solve real-world problems. Design thinking is a creative problem-solving process that prioritizes co-design, convergent and divergent thinking, as well as rapid prototyping. Students will also practice equity-advancing design and liberatory co-design and will collaborate with community members to design solutions (e.g., programs, products) that are desirable, feasible, viable, and promote equity and justice.

Human Resource Management 

In this course, students will be introduced to the basic principles and techniques of human resource management. Students will learn about effective human resource management practices, including leadership skills, employment planning, recruiting, selecting, and rewarding employees, employee compensation plans, and employee training and evaluation. By applying the principles, elements, and techniques learned in this course, students will be better positioned to contribute to the success of the organization.

Learning Analytics

This course is an introduction to learning analytics. Learning analytics are data produced when individuals use an educational technology designed to inform and to influence future learning. Through assignments involving learning by teaching, product evaluations, research reporting, and proposal/design projects, students will learn about various theoretical frameworks, digital learning platforms, and research and evaluation approaches relevant to the study and production of learning analytic solutions. Readings will include scholarly and popular media that span education, psychology, computer science, information science, business, policy, and other domains.

Implementation and Equity

Applying lessons from implementation practice and research, students in this course learn the skills and competencies to tailor implementation frameworks and strategies to different settings to meet the unique needs of communities and to improve outcomes reliably and at scale. Equitable implementation occurs when strong equity components (including explicit attention to culture, history, values, and needs) are integrated into principles, tools, and cultures of work to facilitate the implementation of co-designed solutions for scale and sustainability.

Advanced and Applied Leadership Practices 

This course is centered on the development of theory in leadership from both a modernist and postmodernist perspective. It is designed to provide the student with the basis for understanding the range of theories that have and continue to influence conceptual thought and practice in educational and organizational leadership. Since the practice of leadership in schools and organizations is both an applied science and an art, the course is far-ranging in its scope. At issue is not only the content of what is considered educational and organizational leadership, but the boundaries of the “field” itself.

Capstone Seminars I, II & III

The Ed.D. capstone projects are a series of doctoral seminars rooted in a problem of contemporary organizational practice. Through each capstone project, students will demonstrate the ability to: (a) identify a problem of practice in a field setting; (b) apply a theory or conceptual model to the problem of practice; (c) study the problem using inquiry skills developed in coursework, be it quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods in nature; (d) make meaningful recommendations for addressing the problem derived from their study of a problem; and (e) compose and present arguments and evidence in a logical, systemic, and coherent fashion.

Optional In-Person Immersion 

Each spring, an optional in-person immersion in the Ed.D. concentration in Organizational Learning and Leadership provides a dynamic learning opportunity that fosters community building, connects students with program faculty, and offers a platform for exploration, exposure to real-world leadership practices, and networking with peers from other programs within the UNC School of Education.

Key aspects of the immersion experience include:

Community building

Development of a strong and supportive community among students through team-building exercises, group discussions, and campus events — enhancing academic and professional networks for lifelong benefit.

Familiarity with program faculty

Build rapport with program faculty in an informal setting, gaining insights into teaching philosophies and research expertise, fostering a supportive learning environment and encouraging open communication.

Exploration of opportunities

Explore various academic and professional opportunities within the program, UNC School of Education, and the University, aiding in the alignment of the academic journey with professional goals.

Mentoring connections with leaders in practice

Connect with industry leaders in organizational learning and leadership through guest speakers, interactive discussions, and insights-sharing sessions, enriching understanding and networking in the field.

Capstone Project

The capstone experience in the Ed.D. concentration in Organizational Learning and Leadership is the culmination of the academic rigor and practical learning acquired throughout the program. The capstone is designed to showcase the student’s ability to apply theoretical knowledge, empirical research, and innovative thinking to address complex challenges within organizational learning and leadership. While the capstone project comes later in the program, the curriculum has been designed carefully to scaffold student work toward the capstone throughout the program. It provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate their expertise to make lasting improvements and impact in an organization. The capstone includes a three-semester course sequence in which students identify a problem of practice — a complex and/or pervasive problem within the organization in which they work or within another organization’s practice — and, using lessons from past coursework, explore ways to solve it. Their research results in a written capstone report that details the organizational challenge, their process and findings, and their decision-making — all of which their capstone committee will review. During capstone seminars, students explore best practices for working on large analytic projects, receive personalized guidance and feedback on their efforts from instructors, and learn from their peers as they both give and receive feedback on projects.

Key aspects of the capstone experience include:

Problem identification

The journey begins with the identification of a significant problem or challenge within an organizational context. This problem should be real and impactful, reflecting the complexities and nuances that leaders often face.

Literature review

Students will conduct an in-depth review of relevant literature and theoretical frameworks. This phase helps them establish a solid theoretical foundation for addressing the identified problem and provides insight into existing research and best practices.

Research methodology

Choosing appropriate research methods and data collection techniques is a crucial component of the program and is offered through a series of research methods courses. Whether the capstone involves qualitative or quantitative research, surveys, interviews, case studies, or a combination of methods, the methodology should align with the challenge being studied.

Data collection and analysis

Students will gather and analyze data to gain insights into the problem. This phase involves rigorously analyzing data to draw meaningful conclusions and patterns that will inform potential solutions.

Human-centered approach

One of the distinguishing features of this capstone is the emphasis on a human-centered approach. Students will focus on understanding the needs, perspectives, and experiences of individuals within the organization, recognizing that the success of any intervention or solution depends on the engagement and well-being of its members.

Solution generation

Based on research findings, students will generate innovative solutions and strategies that address the identified problem. These solutions are designed to be practical, actionable, and tailored to the specific organizational context.

Implementation Plan

A well-thought-out implementation plan is crucial for translating ideas into action. Students will develop a detailed roadmap for executing their proposed solutions, considering factors such as change management, resource allocation, and timelines.

Evaluation and impact

After implementing the solutions, students will evaluate the effectiveness and measure the impact on the organization. This stage often involves revisiting the research data to assess whether the problem has been successfully mitigated and whether new challenges have arisen.

As a final step, students will reflect on their journey, lessons learned, and the combination of their academic and practical experiences. The reflection process contributes to the development of critical self-awareness and a deeper understanding of their role as organizational leaders.

Organizational Leadership Careers

This program prepares graduates to pursue a variety of organizational roles across multiple industries. Whether working alongside HR to develop talent and support employees in healthcare settings, working directly with members of leadership in higher education to drive positive change, or implementing new systems and practices to achieve greater efficiency in a nonprofit, graduates will be expert leaders, ready to achieve goals to fulfill their organization’s mission and make a difference. Examples of roles this program prepares graduates for include, but are not limited to, high-level leadership as a: 

• Business and management consultant
• Human resources manager
• Project manager or coordinator
• Medical and health service manager
• Sales and marketing manager
• Leadership coaching or development
• Business or organization executive
• Nonprofit administrator

Become a Human-Centered Leader in Your Organization

Gain the skills to positively change lives with the online Ed.D. concentration in Organizational Learning and Leadership from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

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Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change Ph.D. (In-Person)

Colorado State University’s organizational learning, performance, and change Ph.D. program in Denver develops both research and practical expertise, helping you understand workplaces on a deeper level and enhance them with long-lasting solutions.

Earn your Ph.D. in organizational development in a classroom setting in Denver

Develop the skills to improve organizational effectiveness, enhance your decision-making, and develop analysis and research expertise. Designed for working executives, researchers, and academics, the program offers the unique structure of bi-weekly Saturday meetings held face-to-face in downtown Denver.

Strongly grounded in organizational, strategic, and change management theory, the Ph.D. in Education and Human Resource Studies – Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change Specialization – focuses on a combination of sociological, systems, psychological, and economic approaches to performance improvement strategies.

Become an expert in organizational leadership and change management

CSU's renowned faculty , known for their research and industry practice, teach to their specialties in several areas, including:

• Scenario planning
• Systems leadership
• Political, social, and relational aspects of the workplace
• Socialization and onboarding
• Workplace learning
• Constructivist inquiry

Practical, growth-oriented activities are built into the curriculum to ensure educational relevance and applicability in today's challenging business and institutional environments.

Strong theory-to-practice models ensure that you will acquire advanced research competencies, the ability to manage change effectively, and the skills to improve the performance and effectiveness of your organization immediately.

Build your professional network

As a student, you enter the Ph.D. in organizational leadership program in a cohort and complete courses based on an established plan of study. The same group of students goes through the program together, offering a cohesive support structure and built-in professional network. The cohort structure fosters support and allows you to network with other students seeking to create and administer organizational learning opportunities.

Health and Human Science Matters Podcast

Find out how CSU’s research is making an impact by tuning into the Health and Human Science Matters Podcast , a collection of lively, engaging conversations with members of the college community.

Hear OLPC Ph.D. students explain how the program has helped enhance their decision-making skills, improve their organizational effectiveness, and develop analytical and research expertise.

OLPC Ph.D. Students

See how the program has helped Zachary, Victor, Erin, Gretchen, and Dea become effective managers, leaders, and facilitators in businesses and organizations.

EDOD 706 – Organizational Learning, Performance, Change

This course covers the history, development and current status of organizational learning, performance and change theory, research and practice (praxis). Students will learn the overall issues in the discipline and to orient themselves to the critical problems and emerging opportunities and challenges. Theoretical foundations are covered as well as philosophies informing theory and research to practice and integration in this applied discipline.

EDOD 761 – Evaluation and Assessment in OLPC

This course focuses on the importance of assessing and evaluating the effectiveness of organization change interventions for stakeholders. Various models of assessment and evaluation are presented, their similarities and differences, strengths and weaknesses, and appropriateness for use in specific types of interventions are explored. Students select a model and apply it to a change intervention they have been involved with and develop basic assessment and evaluation skills, including financial skills for analyzing financial benefits of interventions.

EDOD 766 – Scenario Planning in Organizations

This course focuses on the theory and practice of scenario planning. Foundational texts, theories, and research are covered to provide a background and orientation to scenario planning. Basic organizational strategy concepts are also covered. In teams, students are required to apply scenario planning in an organization they have access to under the guidance of the professor. In this applied learning model, students will gain a perspective of theory applied in practice and making the necessary adjustments to improve performance with scenario planning in organizations.

EDOD 768 – Workforce Development

This course focuses on two major aspects of workforce development: first how to develop a workforce inside a specific organization, and second, the dynamics and trends of workforce development as a national and international industry or discipline. The course first focuses on the practical tools for developing, managing and leading a micro-workforce in a given company, including the dynamics that are in play. In addition, major trends and research themes that cut across a variety of disciplines and are relevant to national and international workforce dynamics are examined.

EDOD 769 – Theory and Practice of Change

Examination of the history, nature, theory and informing research on organization development and change management in organizations. Different types and models of organization development, organizational change theories and models are examined along with their implications for effecting and managing change in different performance/organization settings.

EDOD 772 – Theory Building in Applied Disciplines

This course focuses on a general methods approach to theory building in applied disciplines. Foundational texts, perspectives, approaches and research are covered to provide a background and orientation. Students apply principles in the initiation of a new theory in some domain of interest, and use course principles to critique existing theories.

EDOD 773 – Systems Leadership

This course focuses on a systems approach to leadership in organizations. Foundational texts, perspectives, approaches and research are covered to provide a background and orientation. Students apply principles in the examination of leadership practices in an organization to which they have access. Applied learning dominates the course, exposing students to real examples of leadership and leadership development practices in a variety of systems and settings.

EDOD 792A – Research Seminar – Initiating your Research

This course is positioned at the conclusion of program content courses. The premise is to begin more seriously entertaining dissertation topics and ideas from a variety of research methodologies, perspectives and practical approaches. Instructors will lead students through the consideration of their potential research topics from 2-3 different research design approaches to illustrate the pros and cons of each.

EDOD 792B – Research Seminar – Applied Research

Edrm 700 – quantitative research methods.

The basics of quantitative research including foundations, philosophies, and different premises of knowledge creation are covered in the context of organizational research.

EDRM 701 – Applied Linear Models – Educational Research

A specific quantitative technique and set of analysis tools are covered for predictive approaches to regression. Includes bivariate regression, multiple regression, linear regression and other analysis techniques based on the general linear model.

EDRM 702 – Foundations of Educational Research

Philosophical, theoretical, and ethical foundations of educational research.

EDRM 703 – Applied Longitudinal Data Analysis

A specific quantitative technique and set of analysis tools are covered for longitudinal research studies.

EDRM 705 – Qualitative Data Analysis

Basic methods of data collection and analysis are covered for qualitative research studies. Topics include interview techniques, interview structuring approaches, data collection and categorization including using software and manual techniques. Major analysis techniques are covered including the constant comparative method among others.

EDRM 706 – Analysis of Variance – Educational Research

A specific quantitative technique and set of analysis tools are covered for a variety of research designs involving the comparisons of two groups.

EDRM 707 – Quantitative Data Collection Methods/Analysis

Basic methods of data collection and analysis are covered for quantitative research studies. Topics include overview of survey design, data normality, standard assumptions, skewness, kurtosis, and an introduction to some of the major quantitative research designs and analysis methods.

EDRM 708 – Narrative Inquiry

Edrm 772 – proposal development.

This course features time spent on developing and critiquing possible dissertation proposal ideas. The purpose of the course is to provide significant opportunities for students to make progress on their dissertation research proposals and for professor feedback on dissertation structure, design, review of relevant literature, and analysis method selection.

The organizational learning, performance, and change Ph.D. program holds classes in downtown Denver, but also utilizes online learning tools to facilitate collaboration and supplement coursework. Faculty work closely with students as mentors on coursework, the application of theory, and the development and completion of dissertation research.

The small cohort size of approximately 20 students, the fact that faculty are experienced change agents and researchers, and the use of discussion, projects, and papers all enhance the student-faculty relationship. The student-student relationship is also vital to add a personal dimension to the small group activities that are an integral part of the program.

The program is very selective and looks for a diverse group of students. Applicants must have significant work experience, a strong belief in the application of research to define problems and discover solutions, and the drive to apply solutions for the betterment of individuals within organizations and the organizations themselves. Throughout the program, faculty will challenge students to publish and present their finalized projects, papers, and research within relevant publications and at conferences.

Susan A. Lynham, Ph.D.

Dr. Lynham is an associate professor at Colorado State University and Chair of the Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change (OLPC) Program in the School of Education.

She earned her M.A. degree in Organizational Leadership from the University of St. Catherine, Minnesota. Her M.Ed. and Ph.D. degrees in Human Resource Development are from the University of Minnesota, where she graduated in 2000. Susan has over 20 years practical experience in human resource development (HRD), with a special passion for organization development (OD), and has consulted and presented nationally and internationally in these areas. She has also taught at a number of academic institutions during her career, including the University of Minnesota, Louisiana State University, and Texas A&M University.

Susan focuses her teaching and research expertise in the areas of responsible leadership, scenario planning based leadership development, national human resource development, constructivist inquiry, and theory development in applied disciplines. She is an engaged member of the HRD scholarly community, both locally and abroad. As such she has served as an elected board member of the Academy of Human Resource Development, is the past Editor-in-Chief of the Academy of Human Resource Development journal Advances in Developing Human Resources, and serves on the editorial board of a number of core journals in the field.

A native of South Africa, Dr. Lynham enjoys regular visits to her home country—for purposes of both pleasure and work! The diversity of her background enables her to study and practice her field across a spectrum of national cultures, and contexts of complexity.

Thomas J. Chermack, Ph.D.

Tom is a Professor in organizational studies at Colorado State University, where he serves as chair of the university’s Ph.D. program in Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change (OLPC). Tom teaches courses on scenario planning, human expertise, analysis in organizations, change management, and organization development. With a focus on the theoretical foundations and outcomes of scenario planning, Tom's research has won several awards for excellence based on demonstrating the benefits of scenario planning.

Tom is also the founder and Director of the Scenario Planning Institute , an organization that documents scenario planning activity, tracks research, facilitates seminars, and consults with organizations nationally and internationally.

In addition to his academic activities, Tom maintains his passion for serving industry and public clients as an advisor through Chermack Scenarios, a scenario planning consultancy. Tom facilitates scenario planning projects that yield insights resulting in an enhanced ability to navigate environmental uncertainties.

Connect with Tom for questions about the practice of scenario planning. He can be reached through the following links:

[email protected] | (612) 387-1951

linkedin.com/in/thomasjchermack

When will the next cohort begin?

The next application term is for Fall 2024.

Where and when do classes meet?

Fall 2024 cohort classes will take place at CSU Spur campus in Denver. Class sessions will meet eight Saturdays per semester. Students enroll in two courses, one held in the morning and one in the afternoon with an hour break in between.

Do I have to write a dissertation?

Yes, this degree requires you to complete a dissertation. You will work directly with your advisor to identify your topic of interest.

Do I need to take the GRE or GMAT in order to apply to this program?

If i have to drop a semester, is that a problem.

The OLPC Ph.D. is delivered in a cohort model where students begin and end the program together. Students are encouraged to commit to the full duration of the program to ensure they stay on track and are able to complete coursework in eight semesters. If you are required to skip a semester, your graduation will be delayed until appropriate arrangements can be made with your advisor to make up the coursework.

How much do books cost?

Books typically cost $200-$250 per semester.

What are typical assignments, and how much time is spent preparing outside of class?

Much of the coursework is centered on completing projects, case studies, papers, reading assignments, and presentations. Students work on individual and group assignments, and it is recommended that 10-15 hours per week is spent outside of class.

Are assistantships or scholarships available?

No, but federal financial aid is available. Learn more about federal financial aid »

I am looking for a new job. How will this program help me?

The OLPC Ph.D. program prepares students for advanced positions in business, education, government, nonprofit, consulting, and more. The program offers students the opportunity to network with seasoned professionals who value collaboration and advanced learning. The cohort model ensures greater cohesiveness and the development of professional networks which lead to greater opportunities for advancement.

As a student in CSU’s organizational learning, performance, and change Ph.D. program, you will receive a degree from a regionally accredited, renowned research institution while taking courses at times and locations that fit your busy life. Additionally, you can expect a program that offers:

• Scholar-Practitioner Training: Our focus is on developing students into high-level scholars and industry experts by ensuring research is grounded in ongoing professional practice.
• Expert Instruction: Renowned faculty , known both for their research and industry practice, teach to their specialties in the areas of scenario planning and systems leadership.
• Practical Experience: Apply what you learn in the program to your workplace, and initiate practical solutions while receiving faculty support.
• Convenience: Our program combines bi-weekly Saturday meetings held in downtown Denver with supplementary online coursework designed to allow you to maintain your already busy schedule.
• An Interdisciplinary Approach: We deliver course content focused on systems, psychological, and economic approaches to performance improvement strategies.
• Tools to Enact Change: Faculty teach a systematic approach to examining individual, group, and process segments within organizations, allowing you to produce highly relevant, customizable, and long-term change solutions.
• A Cohort Model: The same group of students goes through the program together, offering a cohesive support structure and built-in professional network.

Learn more about CSU's rankings and accolades.

Requirements

The OLPC Ph.D. requires students to complete 48 credit hours, plus a dissertation and faculty advising credits, for a total of 60 credits. Students enter the program in a cohort and complete courses based on an established plan of study.

For more information on the steps required to complete a doctoral program, read the School of Education Doctoral Process guide .

This program hones a rare combination of applied expertise and research skills. The first four semesters provide students with cutting-edge tools and processes for organization development, including Systems Leadership, Evaluation and Assessment, and Scenario Planning. These courses feature our leading faculty and provide students with skills they can immediately apply to their work. The following semesters focus on research skills. In these courses students will gain expertise to carry out applied research and contribute to the generation of new knowledge in their chosen area.

Faculty assist students in developing and refining their dissertation research at the start of the second year of the program, and students can explore a few potential topics with faculty advice and input. Students then complete a dissertation enabling them to advance their expertise in research design, analysis, and execution in a relevant area that will add significantly to academic and professional literature.

Students take two courses per semester, and each course meets eight Saturdays per semester at the CSU Extended Campus - Denver. All courses within the Plan of Study are required.

Plan of Study

• EDOD 706 – Organizational Learning, Performance, Change (3 cr.)
• EDOD 768 – Workforce Development (3 cr.)
• EDOD 761 – Evaluation and Assessment in OLPC (3 cr.)
• EDOD 769 – Theory and Practice of Change (3 cr.)
• EDOD 766 – Scenario Planning in Organizations (3 cr.)
• EDOD 771 – Social, Cultural and Political Foundations of the Workplace (3 cr.)
• EDOD 772 – Theory Building in Applied Disciplines (3 cr.)
• EDOD 773 – Systems Leadership (3 cr.)
• EDRM 702 – Foundations of Educational Research (3 cr.)
• EDOD 792 – Seminar: Human Resource Development (1-18 cr.)
• EDRM 700 – Quantitative Research (3 cr.)
• EDRM 704 – Qualitative Research (3 cr.)
• EDRM 705 – Qualitative Data Analysis (3 cr.)
• EDRM 707 – Quantitative Data Collection Methods/Analysis (3 cr.)
• EDRM 792B – Seminar: Proposal Development (1-3 cr.)

Fall and Spring – subsequent years

• EDRM 792A – Seminar: Research Methodology (1-18 cr.)
• EDOD 799 – Dissertation (1-18 cr.)

Next Application Deadline: March 15, 2024

Note : The department will begin accepting applications in Fall of 2023.

Start your application online and upload materials directly into the online system. You can save your progress and return any time.

1 Review Admission Requirements

• An undergraduate and a master's degree from a regionally accredited postsecondary institution or a CSU recognized international institution is required.
• Minimum 3.00 GPA
• Ten to twelve years of advanced experience in a related discipline

Meeting the minimum requirements does not ensure admission to the degree specialization. Admission is based on a number of factors, including prior academic and professional experience, your personal statement, and fit with the program.

2 Prepare Application Materials

Prepare the materials below and upload when you apply online.

• Your purpose for pursuing graduate education and how it will contribute to your long-term goals and career plans;
• Why you have selected Colorado State University as the place to pursue your graduate studies; and
• A description of teaching, research/creative, or other academic work you have engaged in relevant to the qualifications.
• Dissertation topics are areas of interest that may develop into the focus of your dissertation research.
• Please provide a one-page statement for each of your three areas of interest with each topic/area of interest clearly indicated.
• Previous or current college/university instructors
• Previous or current professional supervisors
• Colleagues who can verify the specific impact of your professional or intellectual expertise
• Letters from friends, co-workers, relatives, or character witnesses will be considered supplemental to the three required references
• Record of all collegiate work, including institution names, attendance dates, and degrees earned
• Record of all professional employment, including dates of service
• List of special skills or competencies, including certifications and licensures
• List of publications, exhibitions, prizes, awards, or other recognition
• List of service activities, including community or charity

3 Complete Online Application

Complete the online graduate application and pay the nonrefundable application processing fee (payable online). As soon as you have completed the required information, please submit your application. Your application will not be reviewed until it is complete and all required materials have been received.

• Select "Education and Human Resource Studies / Organizational Learning Performance and Change (Ph.D.) - Denver" when choosing the program of study.

4 Request Transcripts

Request one official transcript of all collegiate work completed from all institutions attended. Transcripts from Colorado State University are not required. Transcripts must be received directly from the originating institution to be considered official.

Please Note: Students may be unconditionally admitted and registered in their first semester of courses with an unofficial transcript. Official transcripts must be submitted, prior to or during your first semester, before you can register for your second semester of graduate work. Failure to meet this condition will result in your dismissal from the Graduate School.

Electronic (preferred): Digital Transcripts must be submitted by the originating institution using a secure service such as parchment, eScrip-Safe, the National Student Clearinghouse, or e-Quals. Transcripts received via emails are considered unofficial. Use institution code 4075 for Colorado State University or [email protected] if the secure service requires an email address.

Mail (if necessary) Graduate Admissions Colorado State University – Office of Admissions 1062 Campus Delivery Fort Collins, CO 80523-1062

Check Your Application Status

View your application status at any time to ensure your application checklist is complete or to check on updates.

Selection Timeline : Applications received by March 15 will be reviewed immediately and applicants will be notified of a decision within 2-4 weeks after March 15. Applications received after March 15 will be reviewed on a rolling admissions basis.

For International Applicants

Proof of English language proficiency is required for applicants from countries or United States territories where there are official languages other than (or in addition to) English. This includes the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and Puerto Rico.

Learn more about English language proficiency requirements .

We love learning about your goals and answering any questions you have.

Program Details

• An undergraduate and a master's degree from a regionally accredited postsecondary institution

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Transformative. Flexible. Accredited.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Leadership program equips organizational leaders from various public and private contexts to effectively engage in the transformation of their organizations, communities, and society through interdisciplinary scholarship and relevant research, grounded in the integration of faith, reason, and justice. Learn more about  Our Mission.

Program Details

• Delivery/Location : Online with In-Person Residencies at Eastern's St. Davids Campus
• Start Date:  Now enrolling students for Fall 2024.  Apply online  today!  (View application deadlines.)
• Length:  Can be completed in 5 years. Includes 60 credits of coursework, with additional credits required until the completion of the dissertation
• Cost :   View our affordable tuition rates . Plus, if you already have a degree from EU, check out our  Alumni Discount!
• Financial Aid :  Learn more about our Financial Aid and Grants

ACBSP Accredited Leadership Program

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EU Ranked #3 Among Forbes’ Best Online Doctorates in Organizational Leadership

Rooted in christian faith. rich in community..

• Multiple Academic Perspectives - With specialization in the areas of business, non profit, and education, we provide an interdisciplinary approach to leadership studies.
• Community - Students belong to cohorts of about 20 peers and progress through the program together, often creating life-long learning communities.
• Online with Residencies - Our students access coursework online and attend three residencies per year at Eastern University.
• Course Work and Dissertation - The program mandates three years of course work, plus a dissertation phase. The  60 credits (additional credits required until the completion of the dissertation), can be completed in 5 years. 
• Ranked among the Best Online Doctorates in Organizational Leadership:  Top 3 by Forbes and  Top 16 by Intelligent!

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Online Doctoral Degree Doctor of Organizational Leadership

The Doctor of Organizational Leadership (DOL) program at Columbia Southern University empowers students to become adept researchers and influential organizational leaders. Designed to prepare graduates with the knowledge and skills for roles in academia, executive positions, and consulting, the curriculum hones their business, management, and strategic planning skills while elevating their theoretical knowledge in any number of fields. Upon completion, students emerge prepared to apply theoretical frameworks to contemporary leadership issues, analyze research results to inform organizational decisions, and ethically conduct primary or secondary research relevant to organizational leadership. Successful graduates emerge ready to make a meaningful impact in diverse professional settings, positioning them as influential leaders and scholars in their field.

Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography and degree field, affect career outcomes. CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.

Degree at a Glance

• Number of Credits  
• Maximum Transfer Credits  
• Tuition Per Credit *  
• Next Start Date  
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Program Summary

Program description, learning outcomes.

Upon completion of the program, students should be able to do the following:

Concentration

Concentration outcomes, ready to get started.

For more information regarding courses outside the recommended course of study, view the full course listing . ( * Indicates recommended course of study. )

Major Requirements

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Course Number	Course Title	Credit Hours
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Major Courses

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Concentration Courses

12 credit hours

To fulfill the General Concentration for this degree, student may choose any 5000-6000 level course not used to satisfy program requirements. Student can review all available courses at our full course listing. Students are strongly encouraged to speak to their academic advisor prior to choosing general concentration course options.

General Education

The following courses indicated by * are recommended to satisfy General Education Requirements .

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Course Number	Course Title	Credit Hours
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To fulfill open electives, students may choose any course not used to satisfy program requirements, taking into consideration the degree program upper-level requirements. Students can review all available courses at our  full course listing. Students are strongly encouraged to speak to their academic advisor prior to choosing open elective options.

Program Electives

Program Electives

Dissertation Requirements

Doctoral students are required to complete a dissertation and defend their research before a committee and University representatives, which may take place at a distance through audio/visual means. No degree shall be awarded without majority of committee approval. Information regarding this capstone doctoral requirement is published in the Dissertation Handbook.

Graduates will successfully complete a minimum of 61 credit hours and dissertation research courses as outlined above.

Tuition Rates

Our goal is to provide the strongest online academic programs at an affordable rate. On average, our tuition is less than half the cost of our competitors.

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Course Type	Tuition Rate Per Credit Hour
Undergraduate	$270
Graduate	$349
Doctoral	$545

* Rates are per credit hour. Most courses are three (3) credit hours. Tuition and fees are payable in U.S. funds. Tuition rates are subject to change. CSU’s tuition rate for associate, bachelor’s and master’s courses is $250 per credit hour for all active-duty military members using tuition assistance except those who are using a Learning Partner discount. The lower rate is offered to keep the tuition rate at the DoD cap of $250. † CSU Learning Partners receive a tuition discount that is applied to the full tuition rate.

Tuition reports include tuition and required fees per academic year for full time beginning students. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Affordability and Transparency Center, National Center for Education Statistics, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), Winter 2021-2022, Student Financial Aid component.

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• All course materials included in the cost at CSU.
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• While the course costs shown are based on publicly available information as of , comparable courses may be comprised of different numbers of credit hours.
• Each person should carefully compare programs based on a variety of factors, and the cost is only one consideration.
• The cost calculator is merely a comparison of cost, not of graduate outcomes. Graduate outcomes may vary based on the student’s experience, the program, and other factors.
• Questions about the cost calculator? Learn more at The Link .

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• PhD in Business Management

Leadership PhD in Business Management

Establish your ability to lead, consult, or teach in a global business landscape. Capella’s online PhD in Business Management, Leadership program teaches you to draw from multiple leadership approaches as you build productive relationships that strengthen organizations. You’ll develop your expertise in strategic planning, supervision, creative management, and statistical approaches while sharpening your high-level critical thinking skills.

Virtual Residencies

Network with faculty and peers, and gain access to valuable resources to use during your program and beyond, through three doctoral virtual residencies.

Research mentor

Maintain progress through your dissertation; we’ll pair you with an academic mentor who can help you keep your momentum.

Stay on track with your academic goals and dissertation; we’ll help you organize your work into manageable segments.

Apply today with no application fee.

At a glance

• 11 Core courses
• 12 max transfer credits
• 4 Specialization courses
• 1 Elective course
• 3 Virtual Residencies

Comprehensive exam

Dissertation

• ACBSP-accredited

Reduce your tuition by $20,000

Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $20K Capella Progress Reward, a scholarship to help fund your doctoral degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.

Courses and skills

Explore leadership courses.

• This program requires a total of 90 quarter credits
• You’ll need to complete 11 core courses, four specialization courses, one elective course, three virtual residencies, one comprehensive exam and one dissertation

View all courses

BMGT8610	Learners in this course evaluate leadership theories and practices in diverse cultures from a historical and theoretical basis using a multi-disciplinary lens. Learners also develop expanded leadership perspectives and practices, enabling them to assure the viability of their organizations in a dynamic global business environment.	4 quarter credits
BMGT8612	Learners in this course focus on analyzing scholarly literature and emerging research trends in relational leadership. The course also emphasizes theories and models of leadership, which support a shift from hierarchical leadership to inclusive and collaborative leadership. Finally, learners assess personal barriers and facilitators to inclusionary leadership and apply theories and models to personal practice.	4 quarter credits
BMGT8614	In this course, learners explore leadership practice in complex and dynamic environments. Learners use systems thinking and organizational theory to analyze leadership practice within the framework of organizational systems and evaluate the role of systems thinking in organizations to develop innovation in complex environments. Finally, learners apply these concepts to leadership practice.	4 quarter credits
BMGT8616	Learners in this course synthesize multiple ways of thinking to support effective leadership decision making. By integrating critical, creative, reflective, systems, and statistical thinking, learners develop leadership qualities that allow them to apply their insights to current models and perspectives in order to envision a future with improved organizational patterns and outcomes.	4 quarter credits

What you'll learn

This specialization equips you with a multidisciplinary approach to leadership in today’s complex business environment. You’ll develop a far-reaching skillset that prepares you to lead others, build productive relationships, and strengthen businesses in a highly competitive era.

On successful completion of this program, you should be able to:

• Develop a personal view of leadership with an emphasis on connections to others in the organization, and to the broader community
• Evaluate how a leader’s perspective of the organization is influenced by mechanistic and living systems worldviews
• Integrate multiple ways of thinking to inform decisions–including creative, reflective, statistical, critical, and systems thinking
• Synthesize scholarly literature and emerging trends to advance the theory or practice of leadership
• Evaluate the historical and theoretical basis of leadership through a multidisciplinary lens to help ensure the viability of organizations in a dynamic global environment
• Exhibit proficiency in academic research, writing, and critical thinking skills

Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and career paths to explore.

Tuition and learning format

How much does the phd in business management cost.

The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.

A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.

• Based on the quarter system; 1-2 courses per 10-week quarter
• 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
• Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
• Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or term

$985  per credit,  $5,000  quarterly tuition max,  75  coursework credits,  12  max transfer credits

Learn more about GuidedPath »

Tuition breakdown

Program phases.

$985 Per quarter credit

75 coursework credits

Per quarter credit

$2955 Per quarter

Per quarter

Resource kit fee

$175 Per quarter

Coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials

Application fee

$0 no application fee

no application fee

Tuition and program length are unique to you

Your total tuition and program length depend on a variety of factors:

• The program specialization you choose
• Scholarships and finances
• Prior coursework
• Transfer credits
• Employer and/or military benefits
• Number of quarters spent working on dissertation
• Complexity of your dissertation
• Academic performance
• School/work/life balance
• Unexpected life events

About cost scenarios

The cost scenarios below are examples based on general program pricing and 2024–25 Capella tuition rates and assume the average number of transfer credits a student brings into the program. Pacing and pricing information is current as of Jan. 1, 2024. These rates are the same nationwide and may change depending on factors affecting program length and price. You are responsible for paying your own travel costs related to residencies, including plane, hotel, and food expenses.

To discuss whether the specialization you’re interested in has additional factors that may affect program cost and length, contact a Capella enrollment counselor.

Cost scenarios

Cost Scenarios Table

Complete each milestone at the pace of the fastest 25% of students
Coursework: $985/credit 13 quarters	$63,061.00
Comprehensive Exam 1 quarter	$2,955.00
Dissertation: $2,955/quarter 6 quarters	$17,730.00
Subtotal	$83,746.00
Est. Scholarship Savings*	$-20,000.00
Est. Subtotal with Scholarship Savings*	$63,746.00
Resource kit fee: $175 13 quarters	$2,275.00
Application fee: $0 no application fee	$0
	$66,021.00

Cost Scenarios Table

Complete each milestone at the pace of the median 50% of students
Coursework: $985/credit 13 quarters	$63,061.00
Comprehensive Exam 1 quarter	$2,955.00
Dissertation: $2,955/quarter 8 quarters	$23,640.00
Subtotal	$89,656.00
Est. Scholarship Savings*	$-20,000.00
Est. Subtotal with Scholarship Savings*	$69,656.00
Resource kit fee: $175 13 quarters	$2,275.00
Application fee: $0 no application fee	$0
	$71,931.00

Cost Scenarios Table

Complete each milestone at the pace of the slowest 75% of students
Coursework: $985/credit 13 quarters	$63,061.00
Comprehensive Exam 1 quarter	$2,955.00
Dissertation: $2,955/quarter 12 quarters	$35,460.00
Subtotal	$101,476.00
Est. Scholarship Savings*	$-20,000.00
Est. Subtotal with Scholarship Savings*	$81,476.00
Resource kit fee: $175 13 quarters	$2,275.00
Application fee: $0 no application fee	$0
	$83,751.00

*Eligibility rules apply. Connect with us for details.

Get the details

Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.

Scholarships and savings

Are there scholarships available for doctoral degrees.

Your education is an investment in your future that's within reach. There are  more ways to save  than you might think.

$5,000 quarterly tuition maximum

Maximize your courseload – take 6 or more credits per quarter and pay just $5,000.* *Cost of each residency is included in the $5,000 quarterly tuition maximum; books, resource kit, travel, lodging, meals, and other expenses are not included.

$20K toward your doctorate Apply for a $20K Capella Progress Reward , a scholarship to help fund your doctoral degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.

10% military discount 

Capella offers a tuition discount to active-duty service members, guard and reserve members, veterans, their spouses** and dependents. **Starting in July, spouses of veterans can now benefit from a 10% discount on eligible certificates, master’s and doctoral programs and a 15% discount on eligible bachelor’s programs.

Accredited and recognized

Capella is accredited by the higher learning commission..

Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all our  accreditations  and  recognitions .

How to apply

Phd in business management admission requirements.

Applicants must provide the following information for  admission  to Capella programs and specializations:

• A master’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution
•  Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
• A valid, government-issued form of photo identification

GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.

International Student Requirements

If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.

In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:

• Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
• Transcript evaluation

Learn more about  international student admissions .

Faculty and support

What support does capella offer online students.

Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of doctoral students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces that build on one another to help you earn your doctorate. You’ll have support from faculty, staff, and online resources along the way.

Doctoral faculty

Work with faculty members who have years of experience and specialize in their areas of expertise throughout each phase of your program, including literature review and implementation planning.

Enrollment counselors

These experts will set you up for success. They’ll help you find the right degree program and answer all your questions about Capella.

Academic coaches

Through quarterly appointments and as-needed counseling sessions, these specialists introduce you to Capella and help you tailor your program to your personal goals and experiences.

Articles and resources

Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.

10 qualities to look for in a career mentor

Finding a career mentor can really help as you develop your professional skills and move up the ladder.

What’s the ROI for a PhD?

Is a PhD worth the investment of time, money, and energy?

What’s it like to be a doctoral student?

What does it take to earn a doctoral degree? Learn more about the experience and explore each step of the journey.

Career exploration

What can you do with a phd in business management degree.

Your education can help you reach your goals, professionally and personally. Here are some of the jobs and employment settings to consider with a PhD in Business Management, Leadership.

Related job titles to explore*

• Adjunct or part-time business faculty
• Full-time business faculty
• Dean or associate dean of a business program
• Research director
• Business researcher
• Leadership development manager/director
• Executive-level management
• Chief executive officer (CEO)
• Chief learning officer (CLO)
• Talent development manager/director

Employment settings to explore

• Land-based or online college or university
• Non-governmental organization
• Community college
• Consulting firm
• Corporation
• Health care organization
• Nonprofit organization
• Public and private education
• Manufacturing
• Insurance firm
• Small business
• Government—local, state, federal

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.

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Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) Lead the Charge: Empower Your Team

Credit Hours

View Courses

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Lead Your Business to Success with Our Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) Program

If you are a leader in business, you know that building a strong team starts with you. You have the experience, the skills, and the work ethic to help your team push through barriers to success. However, with business changing every day, you need new tools, skills, and strategies to make sure you stay ahead of the curve.

Our 100% online Doctor of Strategic Leadership degree is designed to give you both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in leadership. Our Doctor of Strategic Leadership program focuses on a variety of leadership principles essential to effective business management, with courses culminating in an applied doctoral research project. In our doctorate of strategic leadership degree program, you can learn the skills you need to excel in the top tiers of the corporate world.

Our online Doctor of Strategic Leadership degree can equip you to lead as a business management professional. Through our doctorate in strategic leadership, you can learn how to direct organizational change, become an effective servant leader, and implement principles of executive management theory. With Liberty’s mission to Train Champions for Christ , you will also learn new strategies for integrating a Christian worldview into your business practices.

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Why Choose Liberty’s Doctor of Strategic Leadership Degree?

Your success matters to us. That’s why we’ve designed our Doctor of Strategic Leadership degree to meet your needs as a professional, a student, and an individual. Our doctorate of strategic leadership degree is offered in a 100% online flexible program format and has no set login times. This format means you can complete your DSL online classes without having to travel to a campus.

Our online format gives you the freedom you need to complete your coursework when and where you want – without disrupting your current lifestyle and responsibilities. With our 8-week courses and summer semester, you will have the ability to maximize your time and finish your online doctor of leadership degree sooner than you would in a traditional, on-campus program.

When you choose to pursue your online Doctor of Strategic Leadership degree with us, you are choosing a program from a school that constantly pushes for quality. Liberty University is accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ). This accreditation means that Liberty University’s doctoral programs meet high standards for academic rigor and quality that can help you stand out in the field.

What Will You Study in Our Online Doctor of Strategic Leadership Degree Program?

When you choose our Doctor of Strategic Leadership degree program, you will be provided with a challenging and rewarding curriculum that seeks to hone your leadership skills. In our DSL program, you can learn how to apply biblical servant leadership principles to business management. You will also develop skills in the analysis, planning, implementation, and evaluation of both the social and technical systems of business organizations. Here at Liberty, we can give you the education you need to be a Champion for Christ as you lead in the business world.

Liberty’s online doctorate in leadership and management is designed to give you new skills and strategies to use with your experience and knowledge to solve real-world problems in the field. As such, your final doctoral project will focus on applying what you’ve learned to a specific problem in your industry that you can approach with your new skills.

Potential Career Opportunities

• Company executive
• Management analyst
• Management consultant
• Training and development specialist

Featured Courses

• BMAL 702 – Leadership Theory
• BMAL 714 – Risk Management Process and Practice
• BMAL 720 – Leveraging Data for Decision Making
• BMAL 727 – Leading Effective Teams

Degree Information

• The DSL program falls under our School of Business .
• View the Graduate Business Course Guides (login required) .
• Review the Doctor of Strategic Leadership Handbook for details on the DSL degree program’s mission and foundational values.

Degree Completion Plan

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

• Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

Doctoral Full Time
Doctoral Part Time

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information Our Online Doctor of Strategic Leadership Degree Program

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
• Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application online or over the phone.

Apply by phone: (800) 424-9595

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

Frequently Asked Questions

While researching doctorate degrees in strategic leadership, you may have questions about how this program can help meet your goals. Here are some common questions about Liberty’s DSL program.

What is a Doctor of Strategic Leadership? What is a DSL degree?

Liberty University’s Doctor of Strategic Leadership or DSL degree is a practical doctorate focused on applying effective leadership skills to solve business problems. Unlike many PhD programs, a DSL degree is a professional doctorate focused on applying your experience to real-world problems in business leadership. If you want to retool with new skills and strategies to apply your experience in new and effective ways, then Liberty University’s leadership program will help you get the training you need.

Is a doctorate worth it?

With a masters degree alone, you may run into limitations of where your skills and education can take you. You have the experience and the knowledge from years in the field, but you may struggle to demonstrate your expertise in a way that helps you stand out. With a doctorate, you can develop those skills further into a more effective toolset that can help you tackle even more difficult and important business problems, all while demonstrating that you are a top expert in your field.

A doctorate can also help you achieve your highest pay potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals with doctorates made 21% more in salary than their counterparts with only masters degrees.* This data shows that not only can a doctorate help you show your expertise, but it can open doors to new opportunities as well.

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at Education Pays, 2019 (viewed online February 20, 2020). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

Can you teach with a professional doctorate?

As a practical, results-based doctorate, Liberty University’s online Doctor of Strategic Leadership program is designed to help you show that you are an expert in the field of business leadership. While this degree is a practical, professionally focused program, it still provides the opportunity to teach at the college level.

Most universities require that you have a doctorate in order to teach masters or even some bachelors courses. This requirement means that earning your doctorate in leadership and management online can help you take advantage of teaching opportunities as well as increase your potential in the field. You may also be eligible for educational leadership roles with your specialized skills and doctorate.

What resources will be available to me in this program?

You will be granted access to a wide variety of online resources through Liberty University’s library portal.

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• Why Choose Liberty?
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• https://www.evangel.edu/future-students/admissions/graduate-education/

Apply to EU’s Graduate Education Programs

• Admitted Students Next Steps
• Evangel Student Portal

Admissions Standards

Master’s degree programs, doctoral degree program, international students.

For master’s and doctoral students to qualify for admission, international students whose first language is not English must earn a TOEFL score of 550 on the paper-based exam, 213 on the computer-based or 79-80 on the Internet-based exam. Information on the TOEFL exam can be found at www.toefl.org .

Application Steps

• Apply Online
• When possible, we prefer to receive transcripts electronically from services such as Parchment (Naviance), SCOIR, or through the National Clearinghouse.
• Transcripts can be emailed from your school counselor or administrator to [email protected] .
• Connect with your admissions counselor when requesting graduate course transfer credit.
• Transcripts can be mailed to: Evangel University
 Admissions, Online & Graduate Student Services 1111 N. Glenstone Ave. Springfield, MO 65802
• When taking the GRE, please send your test scores to Evangel University. For information on the GRE, visit Educational Testing Service (ETS) at ets.org .
• Send your final official transcripts. Final official transcripts are required before beginning classes. All offers of admission are conditional until final official transcripts are received.

Application Deadline

Meeting priority deadlines provide you the best opportunity to secure a seat in the program. Meeting the standard deadline will allow you ample time to complete all necessary pre-enrollment steps including course registration, financial aid, and flexible payment options. After the standard deadline, applicants are considered as space is available. When admitted, our team will work with you to help you complete all necessary steps to enroll.

Priority Deadline: March 1 Standard Deadline: May 1 Final Deadline: August 1

Spring Start

Priority Deadline: October 1 Standard Deadline: November 15 Final Deadline: December 1

Summer Start

Priority Deadline: March 1 Final Deadline: April 5

After Admissions

• Upon admission, you will receive an email with instructions on how to sign into your student portal . All pre-enrollment steps can be completed online through your student portal. You can also click here for instructions on setting up your student portal . Questions? Connect with your admissions counselor for assistance.
• When planning to utilize federal financial aid, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using Evangel’s code 002463 as soon as possible after it becomes available.
• Review your financial aid offer and respond promptly to financial aid requests for additional information and/or paperwork.
• Finalize financial aid and payment prior to beginning class.

Education Department

College of Online Learning

Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction Leadership (Online)

Highly skilled educators shape today’s students while anticipating and preparing for the needs of tomorrow. Our Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction equips you with the latest instruction and curriculum design techniques so you can become an innovative teacher-leader who effectively meets the learning challenges of an ever-changing world.

Master of Education in Educational Leadership (Online)

If you’re a big-picture thinker with a desire to impact students across all grade levels, consider becoming a principal with the help of our Master of Education in Educational Leadership degree.

Master of Education in Literacy (Online)

Teachers with a deep understanding of literacy can offer students a future filled with possibilities. Our Master of Education in Literacy prepares you to become a certified reading specialist equipped to work in classrooms, Title I schools, and in interventionist and administrative roles.

Special Education Director add-on Certificate

Doctor of education in educational leadership, curriculum and instruction.

Educators with a deep understanding of curriculum and technology provide leadership to shape the future of education. Our Doctor of Education Leadership in Curriculum and Instruction equips you to be an effective leader who leaves a lasting impact on the field of education.

Recognized Excellence