Working hard to earn a PhD in Leadership, either in the field of Education or Business, or some other area of study- shows a great deal of determination. A Doctor of Philosophy in Education or a Doctor of Philosophy in Business are both terminal degrees, meaning there is no higher degree available in the field. This degree, when concentrated in the area of leadership, gives its holders the credentials to run a large academic institution, manage a human services organizations or capital enterprise, consulting in corporate development, train staff in the capacity of a development manager, or to teach at a university level, among other occupations. Once a graduate gets through the specific coursework of a doctoral program, typically they must write a dissertation, which is often a published culmination of their academic work to date.
What Can You Do With an Online Ph.D. in Leadership?
The coursework requirements for the featured programs in the top 49 Leadership PhDs vary greatly depending on the priorities of the student and of the department. Coursework often includes elements such as public policy, ethics, effective communication, motivational leadership, group dynamics, and even in some of the non-education degrees, as they emphasize teaching or facilitation. Since, according to the New England Journal of Medicine, good leadership is very important in every field, it takes all kinds of leaders to run all of the corporations and all of the primary, secondary, and postsecondary educational programs in the country. Some of the occupations that the BLS associates with a Leadership PhD are:
- Career and Technical Education Teachers
- Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
- Human resources managers
- Human resource specialists
- Instructional coordinators
- Labor Relations Specialists
- Postsecondary education administrators
- School and Career Counselors
- Training and Development Specialists
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Because the jobs associated with this degree, and the differences among them are so vast, the Bureau of Labor and Statistics identifies several fast-growing occupations available to people with a PhD in Leadership. Instructional Coordinators, for example, are in a field that is expected to grow 9% from 2016 to 2026, with a handsome average salary along with it. School and Career Counselors, however, are expected to grow by 16%, much faster than average growth in other fields. Anyway you look at it, a Ph.D. in Leadership is a great choice for those among us who were born to call the shots. Even for those people who have been naturally leading since birth, it takes training and composure to lead effectively, as well as to lead humbly enough to learn from mistakes. You can watch all the TED Talks on Leadership you want, but there is nothing as great as accomplishing the feat of obtaining the credential to give the TED Talk on leadership. These are lessons that simply must come from practice, context, and studying.
Ranking the Best Online Doctoral Degrees in Leadership
For the ranking of the best online Doctor of Education or Business programs with a focus on Leadership in the U.S., OnlinePhD put together a list of universities that proudly offer fully online and hybrid Leadership doctoral programs. Many of them are strictly Education or Business departments with online doctoral schools, and others creatively string together dual degrees, like the joint MS/ Ph.D. program at the University of Louisville. These schools – which include private institutions, fully-online virtual colleges, and public research universities – are then ranked according to three criteria:
- Cost: Current graduate tuition rate (from IPEDS data)
- Reputation: Niche rating
- ROI: Average alumni salary (from College Scorecard data
All of the programs ranked in the Top 49 Doctorates in Business or Education with a focus on Leadership are regionally-accredited. Two of the featured business schools are ACBSP accredited, an indication that the school and business program are committed to excellence.
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: $$$$$
2. Gwynedd Mercy University
Gwynedd Mercy University was established in 1948 by the Sisters of Mercy of Merion, near Philadelphia. Catholicism was the tradition that guided their founding and remains an essential aspect of their identity. They were a Junior College initially, but in 1963 they began offering bachelor’s degrees along with associate’s. They were also an all women’s school until 1973 when they offered admittance to male students. Their primary campus is just 15 minutes from Philadelphia and sits on 160 acres of land in Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania. Their programming features over 30 undergraduate majors and over ten graduate programs. Faculty and students at Gwynedd Mercy University value small classes and personal attention, with a student to faculty ratio of 11:1.
The Executive EdD Program: Doctorate in Education Leadership at Gwynedd-Mercy College in an online format. Some who enroll may choose to take the program on an accelerated timeline. This program is 54 credit hours in length and students can finish it in under three years. Students will learn how to facilitate and administer programming at Educational Policy Organizations, Government and nonprofit organizations that support education, U.S. and International Schools, Colleges and Universities, and School Districts. The curriculum has a research focus, with policy analysis threads, as well as executive functions infused into the coursework. Each student will specialize in Pre-K Leadership, Leadership in Special Education, or Leadership in Higher Education.
Degree & Specialization: Executive EdD Program: Doctorate in Education Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
3. Colorado State University
In 1870 Colorado Territory governor Edward M. McCook began plans to establish Colorado State University. Many people refer to the Fort Collins campus simply as CSU. It is currently a land grant institution and the original campus in the Colorado State University System. When they first opened their doors, they were called the Colorado Agricultural College, and they then changed their name to Colorado State College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts. Their campus is in the town of Fort Collins, Colorado, just one hour north of Denver. Their current student enrollment is close to 34,000 students. The US News and World Report ranks CSU regularly; they were ranked 121 among Public and Private National Universities.
The online Ph.D. program in Education and Human Resources Studies from Colorado State offers an option to specialize in Higher Education Leadership. This program was designed to teach students to be innovative and effective leaders in colleges and universities. Students will find the best research practices to build on their skills and knowledge and relate them to higher education environments. Students will study diversity and inclusion as they apply to higher education. The program is 90 credit hours in length and can be completed in 5 years time. Students can choose to engage with this terminal degree program in an online format that utilizes a variety of media formats. They dive into the curriculum using video, audio, texts (such as blog posts and textbooks), as well as discussion forums.
Degree & Specialization: Online DBA Higher Education Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
4. Indiana Wesleyan University
Indiana Wesleyan University was established in 1920 under the original name Marion Normal College, and it then became known as the Marion Normal Institute. In 1928 they took on their current name Indiana Wesleyan University. At the foundation of the institution is the Wesleyan Church Denomination, as they are a Christian liberal arts university. Not only are they the largest private postsecondary school in the state of Indiana, but they are also the also the biggest Council for Christian Colleges and Universities member. Their campus has won awards for its new construction, and it sits on 345 acres of land in Marion, Indiana.
For a Ph.D. program in Organizational Leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University, the flexibility that comes from a hybrid format of delivery, will challenge and grow the leadership skills within anyone. Many of the classes are offered online, but some require face-to-face attendance in Indiana. Students can synchronously connect to the weekly classes online. The entire program can be completed in 40 months time. The cohort model is utilized in this rigorous program, enabling students to access peer support and collaboration. In addition to the onsite classes students will participate in the September, April and January terms, attendance is required for a summer institute in July that is one week long. Catholic teachings are infused into the coursework.
Degree & Specialization: Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
5. Walden University
Walden University was established in 1970 as a school that would serve adult learners who are in pursuit of doctoral degrees. Because their primary constituency is adults, many of whom are professionals, their programming is entirely online. Over 57,000 students have enrolled at Walden annually from 150 countries around the world. Their mission is infused with principles of social justice and engagement with the liberal arts. Since 1990 they have been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and in 2013 it was reaffirmed. This accreditation grants students access to federal financial aid, as well as individual state financial aid upon unique circumstances.
Walden University offers a Ph.D. in Management with a Specialization in Leadership and Organizational Change. The program was designed for optimal flexibility and is administered online, except for four residencies that total 16 days that students have to be on campus. The entire course of study is made up of 86 credit hours, 43 of which can be transferred in from another college or university. The core courses make up 20 credits, as do the specialty courses. Students are given eight years to completed the program but can work within a timeline that is effective for them. The entire course of study will culminate in a dissertation.
Degree & Specialization: Leadership and Organizational Change: Ph.D. in Management
Cost: $$$$$
6. Xavier University
Xavier University was established in 1831. They are a private Jesuit Catholic institution. They are the fourth oldest Jesuit postsecondary and sixth oldest Catholic university in the nation. The primary focus of Xavier is offering a liberal arts undergraduate education; however, they also offer exemplary graduate and postgraduate opportunities. Their campus sits on 190 acres of land in the North Avondale neighborhood of downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. The campus features an active chapel that supports a parish community that is not necessarily connected to the university, but that students have easy access to. There are a total of nearly 7,000 students enrolled at Xavier each year.
The Leadership Studies and Doctoral program (EdD) from Xavier University was created to build leadership capacity among working professionals in many community and organizational contexts. The program is delivered in a hybrid format. Many classes are offered on campus, however many classes have a remote learning component that enables students to study with more flexibility. Students can partake in assignments off campus and work either in collaborative groups or individually. There is a course management system that students can access to facilitate assignment submissions and communication. The school’s Jesuit Catholic foundation is infused in the learning and promotes organizational change and social justice.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education Interdisciplinary Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
7. Saint Thomas University
Saint Thomas University, also known as STU, was established in 1961. They are a private university, founded on the principles of Catholicism. Their course offerings include over 25 undergraduate disciplines and 27 graduate programs, and one law program that is considered a professional degree. They also have five doctoral degree programs. Saint Thomas has extensive online learning opportunities through ST Online, and their campus is a treat to step foot on, as it is adjacent to beautiful Miami Beaches. The campus sits on 150 acres of land in Miami, Florida in the Wynwood Art District. They have offered extensive study abroad programming dating back to 1946, with a program in Havana, Cuba.
The Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation that is delivered online at St. Thomas University is offered through their STU Online programming. One of the assets of this program is that it is exclusively tailored to the unique needs and interests of each student. Integrated dissertation work begins in the first year of the program, ensuring that students have a clear focus, support, and vision for their work. The dissertation is defended entirely online, as is their coursework. The entire program can be completed in as little as 36 months and is made up of 60 credit hours. Students will learn a myriad of leadership skills that apply to agencies and organizations, such as responding to the needs of diverse organizations as they evolve and change.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
8. Capella University
Capella University was established in 1993 with the vision of providing distance learning opportunities to adult and non-traditional learners. Their headquarters is located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, though the majority of their programming is delivered online. They cater to a diverse range of students, as more than half of their student body identifies as an ethnic minority. They offer 142 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as 25 certificate programs. Their online courses are extensive with over 1,600 unique options. Annually they have about 36,000 students enrolled in their programs. They are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Some of their other programs hold specific accreditations.
Capella University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Business Management with a specialty in Leadership, through their ABCSP accredited school of Business and Technology. This program is delivered in a hybrid format with classes primarily offered online, except for three on-campus residencies through the course of the program. This unique program requires 11 core courses and five specialization courses. Students will be required to participate in comprehensive exams and also be required to write a dissertation. Much of the coursework emphasized critical thinking, reflection, and statistical thinking. The structure of the program is based on a quarter system, enabling students to participate in 1-3 courses per 10 week quarter.
Degree & Specialization: Ph.D. Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
9. Creighton University
Creighton University was established in 1878 by the Society of Jesus. They are among 28 other Catholic schools that are members of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. Creighton is fully accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. Their campus sits on 140 acres of land in Omaha, Nebraska, just outside of the downtown district of business. There are ten distinct colleges and schools that makeup Creighton overall programming. Nearly 8,400 students have enrolled annually in their many courses of study, including online learners. The majority of their student body has participated in extensive volunteer service.
The Doctorate Program in Education with a focus on Interdisciplinary Leadership through Creighton University. Students will engage in the science behind management, group dynamics, and facilitation. The program was constructed with Jesuit ideology at its core, which includes faith, human dignity, and justice. Many graduates of the program have gone on to achieve excellence in career paths such as school administrators, chief executives, educators, leaders in marketing and sales, as well as faith leaders. This program can be achieved entirely online or with a hybrid model that enables students to have face-to-face interaction. Each student will produce a research-driven dissertation.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Interdisciplinary Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
10. Saint Leo University
Saint Leo University was initially established in 1889 and then re-established in 1959. They have always had an association with the Holy Name Monastery, which is a Benedictine Convent, as well as the Benedictine Monastery Saint Leo Abbey. The University and the Abbey were named after Pope Leo the great. Saint Leo is among the five largest Catholic schools in the nation. They have also made a name for themselves as one of the first universities in the country to offer distance learning opportunities, beginning in the Vietnam War Era when they were committed to educating service members. Their campus is situated among a rural landscape in Saint Leo, Florida.
The Doctor of Education (EdD) in School Leadership at Saint Leo is delivered through the College of Education and Social Services. It is an online program geared toward students who are interested in moving beyond their current career and are interested in a leadership role in education and professional practice. There is an on-campus residency requirement that meets in July. Students are required to attend each of these to reamin in good standing in the program. Graduates will be qualified to seek careers as organizational leaders in K-12 schools. The program employs the cohort model, ensuring that students have a collaborative experience with their peers, which is especially important in a distance learning model.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education School Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
11. Colorado Technical University
Colorado Technical University was established in 1965 with the sole purpose of educating military personnel and their families to be equipped to pursue vocational and technical careers. The majority of classes at Colorado Technical University are delivered online, though about 8 percent of their classes take place on their campus in Colorado Springs, Colorado. They also have a learning site in Aurora, adjacent to Denver. The institution is accredited regionally by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. They offer a variety of programs that grant bachelor’s degrees as well as master’s and doctoral programs. Most of the coursework focuses on the fields of management, technology, and business.
Colorado Technical University offers a Doctor of Management Program in Executive Leadership that is delivered primarily online with the infusion of in-person residencies. Students will have the opportunity to engage in the deepest level of research that responds to the methodologies of management and research. Students will also have access to a vast array of electives that support their personal and career goals including global leadership, non-profit leadership, and project management. Many students find this program when they are investing in adding core leadership skills to their already existing professions, including consulting. The program is designed with flexibility in mind, and there are multiple start dates per year that make it easy to matriculate. Each student will write a culminating dissertation and participate in an in-person symposium.
Degree & Specialization: Online Ph.D. In Management-Executive Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
12. Northeastern University
Northeastern University was founded in Boston in 1898 as a private university. They were initially established by the name Evening Institute for Younger Men and facilitated programming at the YMCA at Huntington Avenue. It was not until 1948 that they amicably cut ties with the YMCA. Soon after they began offering admittance to women students and became the private school that they are today. Their campus sits on 73 acres of land in outside of the city. They also have some satellite campuses throughout the region. They have been granted the classification of conducting the highest level of research by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. They have over 25,000 students enrolled each year.
Northeastern University offers a Doctor of Education program with a concentration on Situated Leadership. This specialization focuses on the reflections that students have faced challenges that arise in educational leadership positions. This course of study is motivated by theory and research as they are applied to complex problem-solving. Students will learn how to use practical research in their daily work practice. The majority of the program is offered online; however, students are required to attend a residency. The entire program can be completed in 3 to 4 years of consistent study. Students will choose a discipline from organizational leadership, higher education, or teaching and learning leadership.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education -Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
13. Indiana Tech
Indiana Tech is officially called Indiana Institute of Technology, but most frequently referred to Indiana Tech. It was established in 1930 with the name Indiana Technical College and was designed to be a two year school granting technical degrees and career-oriented programming. It was not until 1948 that they were rechartered and became a non-profit university that grants Ph.D. educations. Indiana Tech is comprised of five distinct colleges with a wide array of course offerings among them. Their College of Professional Studies is extensive in reach and provides online and accelerated degree programs. Their primary campus is situated on 42 acres of land in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Total student enrollment is close to 10,000 students.
The Ph.D. Program in Global Leadership from Indiana Tech provides students with an opportunity to engage more deeply in leadership practices to advance their careers opportunities. Students will learn how to conduct innovative research that is cross-cultural in reach while examining the duality between organizational leadership and culture. The program was built to support working professionals from diverse backgrounds, and as a result, it is delivered online with plenty of spaciousness for flexibility. Students in the program will have the opportunity to contribute to the field by conducting original qualitative and quantitative research and developing theories accordingly that will support the field of global leadership.
Degree & Specialization: Ph.D. in Global Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
14. Liberty University
Liberty University was established in 1971 as a Christian research college. It was founded by the well known evangelical leader Jerry Falwell. Their original name was Lynchburg Baptist College. The vision and mission of the school centers liberty as a Christian Academic Community, and their investment in the academic and spiritual development of all of their students. They are one of the most prominent Christian schools in the world with over 90,000 students enrolled in online programming, and more than 15,000 on their 7,000-acre campus situated in Lynchburg, Virginia. Liberty University offers more than 550 academic programs through Liberty online.
Liberty University offers an online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree program that has a leadership focus. Students will have the option of infusing intensives into the online program. The entire course of study is 60 credit hours and can be completed in 3.5 years. Students can transfer up to 15 credit hours. The sequence of study emphasizes leadership in a business context, marketing, professional management, and human resources. Students will be able to choose a specialty that will be in service to their personal and professional goals. The featured classes include Organizational Design and Structure, Leadership Theory, Organizational Design and Structure, and Leading Organizational Change.
Degree & Specialization: Online DBA in Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
15. University of the Cumberlands
The University of the Cumberlands was established in 1889 as a private university with an affiliation to the Kentucky Baptist Convention, which is connected to the Southern Baptist Convention. Their original name was the Williamsburg Institute. In 1931 they were granted their first accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Their offerings include more than 45 courses of study, with many additional minor options. Their campus is situated in Williamsburg, Kentucky. Their total enrollment is 7,000 students. The school’s motto is A Life More Abundant, and Cumberland tries to stay true to its motto by positioning students to excel in their life paths.
The online Ph.D. program in Leadership from the University of the Cumberlands is designed to support students to advance into a variety of leadership positions in various organizations and educational institutions. Embedded into the curriculum is coursework that focuses on the politics of decision making in an educational context, program planning, as well as assessment and reflection strategies. Students have the option of taking additional coursework to qualify for the Kentucky Rank 1 certification. Students will gain skills in ethical leadership in both community and professional settings. Each student will choose a specialty area to work on improving their knowledge base and create applicable discourse.
Degree & Specialization: Online PhD in Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
16. University of Southern California
The University of Southern California is often called USC. They were established in 1880, making them the oldest private educational research institution in the state of California. When the school first opened their doors tuition cost fifteen dollars, and students had to ask the president for permission if they wanted to step foot off of campus. They now have close to 20,000 students enrolled in their undergraduate programming, and nearly 27,000 students enrolled in their graduate and professional programming. Their urban school sits on 299 acres of land in what is known as University Park Los Angeles, California.
The University of Southern California offers an online EdD in Organizational Change and Leadership that is designed for professional students who are interested in learning how to create change on large and small scales. Some possible students may include those who are seeking leadership positions in private firms, government and non-profit organizations, and those interested in leadership opportunities at colleges and universities. Though the coursework is delivered online, it is supplemented with real-world experiences. Immersion weekends are helping on campus annually. Students will learn how to be effective supervisors and to motivate groups. The entire program culminates with a dissertation and longitudinal reflective self-assessment.
Degree & Specialization: EdD in Organizational Change and Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
17. City University of Seattle
The City University of Seattle is most frequently referred to as CityU. It was established in 1973 as a private college. It was designed with programmatic flexibility to support working adult learners. Their primary campus is situated in Seattle, Washington, though they have additional locations around the world, as well as an extensive online campus. They enroll over 50,000 students per year in a wide variety of Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral Programs. In 2018 The US News and World Report’s ranking for Best Online Programs featured CityU among them. They are part of the national university system.
The City University of Seattle’s Doctor of Education degree program in Leadership is delivered entirely online. The entire course of study is made up of 90 credit hours. This program is continuously being updated to impress upon students the current skills necessary for leadership in today’s challenging world. This course of study is flexible, ensuring that students can continue working while enrolled. There are three concentrations students can choose from including Higher Education Leadership, Organizational Leadership, and Specialized Study which can consist of Entrepreneurship, Adult Education and Online Learning, Inspired Teacher Leadership, Strategic Innovation and Decision Making, and Nonprofit and Global Leadership.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
18. Drexel University
Drexel University was established in 1891 with the original name Drexel Institute of Art, Science, and Industry. Anthony J. Drexel was a philanthropist who and financier from Philadelphia who brought the dream of this university into a reality. Their primary campus is situated in the University City neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania just two stops on the elevated subway line from Center City. They have over 70 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. Drexel enrolls over 26,000 students per year. They have been offering comprehensive online programming since 1996, and offer a variety of degrees entirely online.
Drexel University offers an online Doctorate program in Educational Leadership and Management (EDD) that is built for leaders who are interested in engaging innovative approaches to facilitating complex organizations during times of unrest. Students will research evidence-based theories that challenge antiquated leadership strategies and instead bring organizations to the forefront of contemporary collaborative discourse. The program can be engaged on a full time or part time basis, depending on if the students will be working full time while studying. Students can complete the coursework in 3-5 years. Participants will come through the program using the cohort model that enables peer support and collaboration.
Degree & Specialization: Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Management
Cost: $$$$$
19. Piedmont International University
Piedmont International University was established in 1945 as a private graduate school and bible college. They were initially called Piedmont Bible Institute and changed its name to reflect institutional growth. Their campus is situated in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, not far from the brand new minor league baseball stadium. In 2016, the Center for Online Education ranked them number 3 among the category of Best Online Colleges in North America. They are accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools. They are also a member of the American Association of Christian Colleges and Seminaries. They are currently working to obtain accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Piedmont International University’s Ph.D. Program in Leadership that is delivered entirely online, except for a one-week residency. This program features flexibility, enabling students to participate while they continue working. The coursework supports students to integrate their life experience with their research while studying change management and effective leadership. This program is known for its affordability and its return on the investment. It can be completed in as little as three years time. The entire course of study is comprised of 60 credit hours. There are three concentrations that students can choose including Educational Administration, Ministry Administration, and Organizational Management.
Degree & Specialization: Leadership Doctor of Philosophy
Cost: $$$$$
20. Regent University
Regent University was established in 1977 as a private Christian Research school. It was founded as Christian Broadcasting Network University by evangelical leader Pat Robertson. In 1990 they took on their current name. Their campus sits on 70 acres of land in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The architecture is notable for its Neo-Georgian aesthetic. They used to have a satellite location in Alexandria, Virginia, but as of 2008, it is no longer operational. Regent offers many programs on campus as well as online that lead to associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The US News and World Report ranked Regent number 11 for Best Undergraduate Program in the nation.
Regent University offers a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership in Individualized Studies. They were the first university to offer an online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership in 1995. The program is offered online with a short residency component. This course of study has a Christian worldview at its foundation and based on the best research practices. Students will have the opportunity to customize their course of study to reflect their personal and professional career goals. There will be many opportunities for students to make an impact on the field of organizational leadership through research and applied theory. The School of Business & Leadership, the Regent school that operates this program, is ACBSP accredited.
Degree & Specialization: Ph.D. Organizational Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
21. Vanderbilt University
Vanderbilt University was established in 1873 and was named after its initial benefactor Cornelius Vanderbilt who was a rail and shipping magnate. His goal of funding the institution was to help heal those who were impacted by the Civil War. The campus is situated on 330 acres of land in Nashville, Tennessee. Their total enrollment is close to 12,600 students per year. The student body represents all of the 50 United States and more than 100 countries from around the world. They are one of the founding members of the Southeastern Conference and have been unique as a private school within the conference. Vanderbilt has many notable alumni including 26 former and current members of Congress.
Through their Department of Leadership, Policy, and Organizations Vanderbilt University offers aDoctor of Education program in Leadership and Learning in Organizations. This program encourages students to synthesize theory and practice as they work through this comprehensive program with support from leaders that are based throughout the country. Students will learn the fundamentals that lead to organizational change. The entire course of study can be completed in 36 months. The program is cohort-based, ensuring that students have many opportunities to access peer support and collaboration. The program is 54 credit hours in length and can be completed within 3 or 4 years of consistent study.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Leadership and Learning in Organizations
Cost: $$$$$
22. Johnson University
Johnson University was established in 1893, and their original name was The School of the Evangelists. They changed their name in 1909 to Johnson Bible College. In 2011 they took on their current name. Their campus sits on 175 acres of land in Kimberton Heights, Tennessee, just minutes from Knoxville. They also have an extensive online campus that offers many options for adult and nontraditional students who require flexibility to access education. Their offerings include Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degree programs. They hold regional and national accreditations from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Association of Biblical Higher Education.
Johnson University’s Online Ph.D. Program in Leadership Studies and Organizational Leadership will take four years to complete. The first year includes 18 credit hours dedicated to the Leadership Core Curriculum. The second year consists of the Ethics and research curricula that accounts for 15 credit hours. Year three is made up of elective credit hours as with a deepening of research coursework, and the final year is primarily research based. Johnson is known for its affordable tuition and innovative learning opportunities. Students will be able to engage in faith-based leadership as well as gain the skills to work in a variety of organizations in leadership roles.
Degree & Specialization: Online PhD in Leadership Studies-Organizational Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
23. Pepperdine University
Pepperdine University was established in 1937 as a research institution connected to the Church of Christ. Their history began amidst the great depression and became a Christian liberal arts hub of education. Their campus is situated on 830 acres of land with views of the Pacific Ocean in unincorporated Los Angeles, California. It is just minutes from Malibu. Many have called their campus one of the most beautiful in the country. The US News and World Report has ranked them number 46 among National Universities. Most courses are taught at the main campus, though they have six additional graduate campuses and an international presence.
Pepperdine University’s online Doctor of Education in Leadership is offered by theGraduate School of Education and Psychology. The program is delivered in a blended format 60 percent in person and 40 percent online. The face-to-face meetings generally occur two weekends each term either in Irvine or West Los Angeles. This research-oriented program will help students formulate their own best practices in leadership based on qualitative and quantitative research and application. All applicants must have achieved a master’s degree, with a GPA of 3.0 to be considered for the program. On average students complete the program in 3.5-4 years time.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
24. Trident University
Trident University was established in 1998 as a private university, with coursework delivered exclusively online. They offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs geared specifically for students who require flexibility to engage fully in their education, which includes adult and professional learners. Their headquarters are located in Cypress, California. They are a research-based institution regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. They have just over 6,000 students enrolled in programming and over 30,000 alumni. Their enrollment is often near 75 percent military members and veterans. They offer five doctoral degrees, eight masters, and eight bachelors degree programs, as well as one associate’s program.
The Ph.D. program in Educational Leadership from Trident University is delivered 100 percent online, with no required travel or residencies. Students will learn the skills to conduct high levels of research, engage in leadership roles in teaching, and learn advanced consulting skills. Students will also learn how to develop subject matter expertise. The program embeds many opportunities for students to collaborate with faculty members, including in support of culminating dissertation and research. One thing that Trident graduates can count on is career development support and resources. They have an active Career Services Center that walks students through the process of job applications, self-assessment, and transitioning into a diverse range of career paths following graduation.
Degree & Specialization: Ph.D. in Educational Leadership Degree
Cost: $$$$$
25. University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
The University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill was established in 1798 as a result of a charter by the North Carolina General Assembly. Under the United State’s Constitution, they were the first public college or university ever chartered. They are the only school that granted higher education degrees in the eighteenth century. Their campus is situated on 729 acres of land in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and their total enrollment is close to 30,000 students. The downtown Chapel Hill location makes it easy for students to experience a college town vibe. They are considered a public Ivy School, meaning they provide the quality of education found at an Ivy League school with the price tag of a public education.
The Executive Doctoral Program in Health Leadership at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, that is administered in the hybrid format. The majority of the coursework is delivered online; however, some campus visits are required. The program was built to meet the needs of those who are already working as healthcare professionals, abroad or in the United States, who hold the desire and ambition to play a leadership role. The minimum amount of credit hours required is 45, and the program should take three years to complete. Generall, there are around 1600 students enrolled in the program at any given time.
Degree & Specialization: Executive Doctoral Program in Health Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
26. Arizona State University
Arizona State University, which is often referred to as ASU, was established in 1885, as the Territorial Normal School. The campus sat on 20 acres of land with a four-room schoolhouse that held all of the classes for prospective teachers. Currently, they are a comprehensive public metropolitan research university. They have four campuses that are spread throughout the metro Phoenix area, and four regional learning centers that are situated throughout the state. Over 75,000 students are enrolled in Arizona State University Programming. The Carnegie Foundation has classified them as an R1 Doctoral University, designated as conducting the highest level of research.
Arizona State University offers an Online Doctor of Leadership and Innovative Education program that is geared toward students who are already working as leaders in the field of education. The students in this program work in a variety of educational settings and are all driven to create better learning outcomes for students all over the world. The entire program is 90 credit hours in length, and each class takes 7.5 weeks to complete. Students are admitted to the program two times per year in the Spring and Fall semesters. Each student is required to participate in an action-research driven dissertation with the support of student peers and faculty members.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation
Cost: $$$$$
27. University of New England
The University of New England, also known as UNE, was established in 1831. It is a private university that sits on a 540-acre rural campus in Biddeford, Maine. UNE has additional campuses located in Tangier, Morrocco, and Portland, Maine. They are known for being the most prominent educator of students engaging in health care professions in the state of Maine. Their offerings include over 70 undergraduate degree programs, as well as graduate and doctoral organized among six colleges. The US News and World Report has included the University of New England among the Best American Colleges. Many of their programs are fully accredited.
The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (EdD) from the University of New England is offered entirely online with no required campus visits. The program follows the cohort model that ensures students will have access to peer support and collaboration throughout the program. Three cohorts begin the program annually: Spring, Summer, and Fall. The program can be completed in three years, which includes the dissertation component, which is also presented online. Students will learn how to be leaders in a variety of contexts. There will be many opportunities to engage in collaborative action-oriented research, and participate in a national network.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
28. Aspen University
Aspen University was established in 1987 to offer exclusively distance learning education. They were initially known as the International Academy which became the International School of Information Management (ISIM), which maintained an emphasis on information technologies. 2003 is when they took on their current name Aspen University. They are accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). They have four distinct schools under the Aspen umbrella, including the School of Professional Studies, the School of Education, the School of Business and Technology, and the School of Nursing. Many of their programs cater to adult learners, and to make it easier for students to return to school, they have a variety of payment plans. Their headquarters are located in Denver, Colorado.
Aspen University offers four Doctor of Education in Leadership programs that are delivered online, each with their specialty. These including the Doctor of Education in Leadership and Learning with a Specialization in Healthcare Administration and Leadership or the Doctor of Education in Leadership and Learning with a Specialization in Organizational Psychology. Some other options include the Doctor of Education in Leadership and Learning with a Specialization in Higher Education Leadership or Doctor of Education in Leadership with a Specialization in Organizational Leadership. Students can alternately focus on K12 Educational Leadership. Each student is ensured to receive personal attention from faculty members who are leaders in their discipline. The Distance Learning Accrediting Commission accredits all of the programs.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Leadership Programs
Cost: $$$$$
29. Lamar University
Lamar University, also known as LU, was established in 1923. It is a public research-oriented university with a doctoral focus. Since 1995 they have been a member of the Texas State University System. Their campus sits on 292 acres of land Beaumont, Texas, just seven miles from the airport. Their total enrollment is close to 15,000 students per year. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools grants Lamar full accreditation. In a study featured by the Washington Post, Lamar University was one of 16 schools to be awarded an “A” rating, stating that they commit to a core curriculum that is well rounded and rooted in competitive education.
Through the Center for Doctoral Studies Lamar University offers a Doctorate in Educational Leadership with a specialty in Global Educational Leadership. This is an accelerated program that is delivered entirely online. There are no travel or residency requirements, and the entire program can be completed in the comfort of your home. It is specifically geared toward full-time working professionals and educators. Students are given the skills to be change makers in global, national and local settings, to improve conditions for people all over the world. The course of study emphasizes research, reflection, transformative practices, accessibility, and is practitioner-driven.
Degree & Specialization: Doctorate in Educational Leadership in Global Educational Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
30. Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University was established in 1964 with the original name Nova University of Advanced Technology. They first opened their doors to just 17 students, and now their total enrollment is close to 22,000. They are a private university situated 315 acres in Davie, Florida, near Fort Lauderdale and just north of Miami. The school is made up of 18 distinct schools and colleges, and they offer over 150 disciplines of study. They have been classified by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching as a community-engaged and high level of research institution. They are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Nova Southeastern University offers aDoctoral Program in Organizational Leadership. This course of study was designed for students who are already practicing professionals, many of whom are already in leadership positions in their organizations. This concentration is designed to build the skill set of adult learners, ensuring that they can meet the complex challenges that organizations face in today’s world. The program can be taken online with the addition of the required week-long Summer Institute that meets on the Florida campus each year. Students are required to achieve a 3.0 or above to complete the program successfully. Each student is required to write and present a dissertation.
Degree & Specialization: Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
31. University of Arkansas
The University of Arkansas offers aDoctor of Education in Educational Leadership that is geared towards students who are interested in pursuing careers as principles, supervisors, building level administrators, and playing leadership roles in public and private schools. This course of study is delivered online; however, there is a Campus weekend seminar that all students are required to attend. The weekend connects students to their cohorts and exposes them to scholars in the field through lively discussions and workshops. The entire program is 42 credit hours and can be completed in three years. Each student will write a dissertation that culminates in their research and program experience.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
32. Southeastern University
Southeastern University was established in 1935 as the Southeastern Bible Institute in New Brockton, Alabama. They are a liberal arts university with a Christian Foundation. They are known for being the most significant Assemblies of God educational Institution in the nation. They have since moved from Alabama to their current campus that sits on 88 acres of land in Lakeland, Florida. In addition to their main campus, they have 80 extension sites scattered throughout the country, with the majority being in Florida. Each site has a different course and degree offerings. Their offerings include 55 bachelor’s degree programs, 16 master’s, and two doctoral.
The Ph.D. Program in Organizational Leadership from Southeastern University is delivered in a hybrid format. The program engages students with online coursework and occasional on one-week intensive classes that meet on campus. The face-to-face classes allow students to connect with one another as well as their faculty members to stay throughout the online coursework. Students will learn how to conduct active research that is valuable to organizational management and systems. Students will have opportunities to focus on teamwork, cultural intelligence, qualitative and quantitative research. The program consists of 40 credit hours. Students have access to potential financial aid opportunities.
Degree & Specialization: PhD Organizational Leadership — hybrid
Cost: $$$$$
33. Argosy University
Argosy University was established in 2001 and is a system of colleges that are overseen by Dream Center Education Holdings (DCEH). The founding of Argosy brought together The Medical Institute of Minnesota, The American School of Professional Psychology, and the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. They were granted accreditation in 2011 by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. All of their programming is offered online and in a flexible framework that allows students to choose when they want to study and participate in coursework. Their classes are said to be intimate in size, and it is ensured that students will get one-on-one faculty attention.
Argosy University offers a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership that is geared towards educators who are interested in taking on leadership positions. This program is delivered online, though it requires the participation in a field-based curriculum to develop professional and interpersonal skills further. 85 percent of the students enrolled in the program participate on a full-time basis, and over 85 percent of participating students are over the age of 40. Much of the coursework is built on the leadership strategies that engage the goal of living in a pluralistic society with effective interpersonal skills in the driver’s seat.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
34. University of Charleston
The University of Charleston, also known as UC, is a private college. They were established in 1888 with the original name Barboursville Seminary of the Southern Methodist Church, and their name later changed to Morris Harvey College. Their primary campus is situated in Charleston, West Virginia, though they have additional sites in Martinsburg and Beckley, West Virginia. Many of their programs can be accomplished online, both undergraduate and graduate. In 2014 the US News and World Report ranked University of Charleston 14th among the Best Regional Colleges in the South. They are a member of the North Central Association and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Charleston offers a Doctor of Executive Leadership (DEL) that is delivered online using web conferences and the learning platform Moodle. At the beginning of each year, students are required to participate in five-day residencies on campus. The program utilizes the cohort model, and each cohort is comprised of 12-15 students. There are 58 credit hours required for students to complete the program. Students will engage in high-level research and learn application techniques. Prospective students must have first completed a Master’s degree before applying, and submit official transcripts, along with two confidential letters of recommendation, and a CV or resume.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Executive Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
35. Concordia University-Chicago
Concordia University-Chicago is a private university that was established in 1864. Their original name was Addison Teachers-Seminary, and the Saxon German immigrants built the institution in the Lutheran Tradition. They were initially formed to educate parochial teachers, though their mission and focus evolved. The campus is situated on 40 acres of land in River Forest, Illinois, which is known as a local Village. The campus is just 10 minutes from the cultural hub of downtown Chicago. Concordia is a comprehensive academic organization offering over 100 courses of study for both undergraduate and graduate students. Their total enrollment is close to 5,000 students.
Concordia University Chicago’s Doctoral Specialization in Organizational Leadership is research heavy with a focus on decision making. This program is geared towards professional adults who are invested in leadership methodologies that support effective training facilitation, coaching and setting the tone for effective group dynamics. Students will dive into research that focuses on organizational interventions, ensuring that graduates can inact effective institutional change. Dissertation supervision is provided for each participant, and every student will partake in comprehensive examinations. The program is 61-67 credit hours in length and can be taken 100 percent online, with an option of studying on campus.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Leadership
Cost: $$$$$$
36. Eastern University
Eastern University was established in 1925 as a Christian four-year school. Their goal was to provide a seminary that was theologically conservative and in line with the values of the American Baptist Church. Their original name was Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Their campus currently sits on 115 acres in the town of St. Davids, Pennsylvania, which is located on the Pennsylvania Main Line. They are just a short distance west of Philadelphia. The American Baptist Churches USA holds a consistent affiliation with Eastern and continues to support the interdenominational Christian student body. Their total enrollment is nearly 4,300 students per year.
Eastern University offers a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership that is delivered in a blended format. The program caters to non-traditional, adult, and professional learners who are interested in gaining an interdisciplinary terminal degree that will support them to achieve executive leadership positions in a variety of career paths. Students learn with cohorts who will act as peer support and collaborators throughout the course of the program. Not only will students access the majority of their education online, but they will have residencies on campus to start each semester. The residencies include individual advising, lectures, classes, and networking opportunities. The coursework should take three years to complete, with the addition of the dissertation requirement.
Degree & Specialization: Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
37. National University
National University is a private school that was established in 1971. Their headquarters are situated in La Jolla, California, though they offer programming all over California State, and have one location in Nevada. A wide variety of their courses and degree programs can also be accessed online. They are divided into four professional schools and two colleges. Their programming is designed to support adult learners and their unique life circumstances, and therefore, offer optimal flexibility. Their offerings include over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, and over 1,500 classes that can be accessed online. They are accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
National University offers a Doctor of Education Degree in Leadership that was designed as an exploration of the education system, public administration, and healthcare. Students will develop a broad range of honed leadership skills. Students that achieved a master’s degree from National can transfer up to four credits to the doctorate program, which is co-operated with the City University of Seattle. The program is delivered online with residency options online and on campus. Students will choose a concentration from one of the following: Organizational Leadership, Educational Leadership-Principal or Program Administration, Higher Education Concentration, and Superintendent Certification Concentration. There is also the option of participating in the Specialized Study Concentration, which gives students the option to specialize in their area of interest.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
38. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University was established in 1932 by a husband and wife team that wanted to focus on business education. The original name of the institution was New Hampshire School of Accounting and Secretarial Science. In 1963 they were given degree-granting privileges. In 1970 they moved to their current campus which is situated on 300 acres beside the Merrimack River in Hookset, New Hampshire. In 1995 they initiated online distance learning programming, much of which was granted degrees. They currently have a lot of online learning opportunities. Over 34,000 students access online programs at Southern New Hampshire University per year.
The Southern New Hampshire University offers a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. Students will learn how to sculpt policy for education and build collaborations. This course of study is delivered in the hybrid format; many classes will meet online while others will convene face to face. The program was designed for higher education administrators, executive directors, curriculum specialists, and pre-k leaders. The coursework is built upon educational leadership national standards and policies. When choosing program candidates, the search committee looks for a diverse range of students and tries to foster an environment that represents a diverse student body with regards to race, religion, political thought, sexual and gender identity among others.
Degree & Specialization: EdD Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
39. Brandman University
Brandman University was established in 1958, and it was previously known as Chapman College. They were founded with the original purpose of providing education to what was formerly known as the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station, which is located in Irvine, California. They changed their name to Brandman University in 2009 to honor a large donation from the Joyce and Saul Brandman Foundation. They offer a variety of programming, much of which caters to adult and non-traditional learners. They are regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. They are a member of the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning. They have 26 campuses scattered throughout California and Washington with a large number of their classes and degree programs offered online.
Brandman University offers a Doctor of Education (EdD program in Organizational Leadership which was designed to build leaders who can transform organizations. The program infuses the curriculum with coursework that centers on transformational leadership, cultural differences and diversity, strategic thinking, creativity and sustained innovation, collaborative relationships, and political intelligence. The program is delivered in a hybrid format that still allows the necessary flexibility for professional students who will continue working full time. The program utilizes the cohort model, providing students with embedded peer support and collaboration. Students will each participate in a transformational change project and a dissertation that will culminate their experience.
Degree & Specialization: EdD Organizational Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
40. The University of Louisville
They were established in 1798, and they were the first in the country to be a city-owned college or university. In the midst of World War II, they were on the of the 131 colleges and schools that participated in the V-12 Navy College Training Program that gave students easy access to Navy Commission. Their offerings include over 70 bachelor’s degree offerings, 78 Master’s, and 22 doctoral. They technically have three campuses, the primary is known as Belknap, which is situated on 345 acres of land just beside downtown Louisville, Kentucky.
The University of Louisville offers a joint MS/ Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Organization Development, Evaluation Specialization. The Master’s portion of the degree is provided in an online format through the College of Education and Human Development, as a concentration in Human Resource Leadership. This program was designed for busy professional students who require flexibility to further their education to meet their life goals. This is a terminal degree that emphasizes evaluation and has a keen focus on research methodologies that are effective for decision making and leadership strategy. Graduates from the program are eligible for careers in non-profit organizations, government agencies, private research and development companies. The program honors firm application deadlines of October 1st and February 1st, and new students are encouraged to begin the Ph.D. program in the fall cycle.
Degree & Specialization: Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership and Learning
Cost: $$$$$
41. Andrews University
Andrews University was established in 1874 with the original name Battle Creek College. Seventh Day Adventists founded Andrews, and it was the first college or university with this background. It is the flagship of the Seventh Day Adventist School System, the second largest Christian school system in the world. Andrews is comprised of eight distinct schools which together make up 130 undergraduate degrees and 70 graduate degree programs. They are fully accredited by the Adventist Accrediting Association and the Higher Learning Commission. Their campus is situated in Southwest Michigan in a village called Berrien Springs and sits on 1,600 acres of land.
The School of Graduate Studies at Andrews University offers aPh.D. program in Leadership that is delivered entirely online. The course of study in its entirety makes up 90 credit hours, and students can complete the program in as little as five years. Prospective students must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 to qualify for the program. The curriculum is built to cater to mid-career professionals who are interested in achieving in-depth leadership frameworks. Students come from a variety of professions including education, healthcare, business, military, government and pastoring. Many who find this program require the flexibility that it offers to continue working in their already established careers.
Degree & Specialization: Ph.D. in Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
42. Antioch University
Antioch University was established in 1852 and emerged out of a dream of educator Horace Mann’s. He visioned a school with the rigor and scholarship of Harvard, but with critical differences like student self-direction and alternative approaches to grading. They currently have five campuses which are scattered throughout five states. Their primary campus, however, is in Yellow Springs, Ohio- additional sites are in Seattle, Washington, Keene, New Hampshire, Los Angeles, California, and Santa Barbara, California. One of the many unique things for which Antioch is known is their narrative evaluations in place of letter grades. Following suit, they have many alternative approaches to learning and institutional structure.
Antioch University offers a Ph.D. program in Leadership and Change, and the tagline is Engaging in the Art and Science of Leading Positive Change. This particular course of study was designed for adult learners who are working professionals in a variety of fields including schools, organizations, and communities and are interested in inciting positive change in their area of interest. The majority of the program is delivered online, though students are required to participate in three on-campus residencies per year for three years. Online interaction drives the program and enables students to connect with each other and their faculty members, and participate in regular group reflection. After three pre-candidacy years, students will dive into dissertation writing.
Degree & Specialization: Ph.D. in Leadership and Change
Cost: $$$$$
43. Abilene Christian College
The Abilene Christian College was established in 1906 as a private college that is affiliated with the Churches of Christ. It was called Childers Classical Institute initially and opened with an inaugural class of 25 students. They took on their current name in 1912 and paid the Childers family $4,000 to do so. The Abilene Christian College campus is situated on 208 acres of land in Abilene Texas. They serve nearly 5,200 students per year. The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools has accredited this institution since 1971. Many of their programs hold additional accreditations.
The Online School of Educational Leadership (SoEL) at Abilene Christian University offers a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership that is delivered entirely online. This program is geared towards students who are are already working within organizations that they would like to continue to improve and increase their skills to take on leadership roles. The flexibility of an online program like this one makes it easy to continue working while engaging new skills. Five competencies are at the core of the program’s coursework including resource development, personal development, organizational Assessment, collaboration and communication, and organizational culture. Christianity is a thread that is built into the curriculum as a foundation of leadership.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
44. Fielding Graduate University
The Fielding Graduate University was established in 1974 under the original name Fielding Graduate Institute. They are situated in Santa Barbara, California, though they are mostly known for offering distance learning opportunities. As a nonprofit entity, they are accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Their programs include master’s, doctoral, and professional programs that are designed for adult professional learners. Their School of Leadership Studies and School of Psychology offer certificate programs. The program emphasizes student learning plans that are collaborative and include contract-based learning. Student to student peer feedback is also brought into the course of study, and learning framework.
The Doctor of Education in Leadership for Change at Fielding University is a degree program was designed for the freedom fighters who are ready to have an impact on our human services systems. Students will learn the skills to be advocates, innovators, leaders, and activists in the face of today’s complex problems. The program is delivered in a blended format with courses that exist online as well as synchronous face-to-face classes. Students will connect to global international networks that will be important upon graduation. Faculty plays active roles in each student’s experience, ensuring that students have what they need to be expansive thinkers when crafting dissertation topics and products.
Degree & Specialization: EdD Leadership for Change
Cost: $$$$$
45. North Carolina A&T State University
North Carolina A&T State University was established in 1891. Their full name is North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. They are a historically black research-based college located in Greensboro, NC. With over 12,000 students enrolled at a time, they are the largest historically black college or university in the country. Students who attended North Carolina A&T in the 1950’s and 60’s played a significant role in the initiation of the Civil Rights Movement. As such, the legacy of transcendent justice is ongoing. Their campus is situated on 200 acres in the small urban center of the central NC city. They are among 16 other schools that make up the University of North Carolina System.
The Doctor of Philosophy Program in Leadership Studies (LEST) from North Carolina A&T University has a long history of providing excellent educational opportunities for its students. The coursework is conducted online, enabling students the necessary flexibility to continue working while accomplishing the program. This program is interdisciplinary in reach and is geared towards students who are interested in conducting research related to the behavioral and social sciences. Many professional paths are represented among the student body including law, engineering, history, engineering, healthcare, education, community-based organizing, religious studies, and sociology among others. Many students find the program to engage in career paths in post-secondary education, secondary education, research, consulting, and advanced degree programs.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
46. Saybrook University
Saybrook University was established in 1971 by a group of psychologists who were leaders in the field. They created a graduate program based on a humanistic approach to the field, and the scholars in the program went on to found the humanistic psychology movement. Saybrook features low residency doctoral, masters, and professional certificate programs. Their campus is located in Oakland, California, though the conference for which their founding was based took place in Saybrook, Connecticut, hence the name that they have today. They are fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Over 600 students are enrolled at a given time.
Saybrook University offers a Ph.D. in Managing Organizational Systems: Educational Leadership Specialization. The goal of this program is to train students to become the leaders of today’s complicated world and plug into the changing landscape of primary, secondary, and postsecondary education. The curriculum engages transformational Management Practices that is geared toward academia, as well as productive conflict mediation strategies, and ethics. The online coursework was designed to support professional and adult learners needs for flexibility. Residencies that meet on campus are required at the beginning of each semester as a touchstone with faculty and peers. Residencies enable students to engage with each other’s work and participate in meaningful.
Degree & Specialization: PhD Managing Organizational Systems: Organizational Leadership and Specialization
Cost: $$$$$
47. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Chicago
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Chicago was established in 1979 and was initially known as the Chicago School. They are a unique college that focuses on graduate studies specifically in psychology. They have many campuses, and despite their name, they are not only located in Chicago. Their primary campus is in Chicago Illinois, but they have additional sites in Los Angeles and Irvine, Calfornia, as well as Grayslake, Illinois. All of their sites are accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Many graduate students are drawn to the schools programming in service of achieving specialization in psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Chicago offers a Ph.D. program in Organizational Leadership that is delivered entirely online. The program is full time and takes three years to complete. The course of study was created to support supervisors and managers who are interested in improving their leadership skill set. Students will learn competencies in executive leadership as it relates to nonprofit and for-profit businesses. The program is facilitated by practitioner faculty who is committed to infusing the curriculum with ethics, diversity, organizational interventions, psychological theories of motivation and leadership, interpersonal dynamics, and team building. Participants will have the opportunity to choose electives that line up with their personal and professional goals.
Degree & Specialization: Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership
Cost: $$$$$
48. California Southern University
The California Southern University was established in 1978 as what was known as a traditional correspondence school. Their original approval came from the California Department of Education. Their initial programming included associate’s degrees and later began offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Currently, they are recognized as an institution that offers degrees online. Their campus is situated in Costa Mesa, California. They are accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. They are also a member of the California Association of Private Postsecondary Schools (CAPPS). Their programs are all delivered 100 percent online and include topics such as criminal justice, nursing, and law.
The Doctor of Business Administration at California Southern University is a degree program that was designed for students who are interested in advancing their careers to senior leadership positions. Students will learn the foundations of business and interpersonal challenge interventions among many other effective managerial skills. This terminal degree will establish participants as experts in their field and provide an easy avenue for academic teaching positions or leadership roles in business, nonprofit organizations, along with many other workplaces. The program is 60 credit hours in total and can be completed in 4 years time. Students can transfer a maximum of 30 credit hours.
Degree & Specialization: Doctor of Business Administration
Cost: $$$$$