phd organizational leadership online

Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Programs 2024

Amy Boyington

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated April 4, 2024

Danika Miller

Contributing Editor

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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

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. TheBestSchools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

Anderson University

• Anderson, SC
• Online + Campus

Cost per Credit: In-State | $760 Out-of-State | $760

Credits to Graduate: 48

Anderson's online Ph.D. in leadership with a business concentration prepares graduates for high-level positions in both for-profit and nonprofit organizations. This program focuses on developing leadership models that can improve and expand organizational cultures of leadership.

AU's program focuses include organizational structures, leadership strategies and workplace culture development. Graduates go on to become corporate strategists, leadership consultants, executive coaches, talent leaders and executive leaders. Applicants need a master's degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Concordia University-Chicago

• River Forest, IL

Cost per Credit: In-State | $753 Out-of-State | $753

Credits to Graduate: 61-67

Concordia-Chicago's online Ph.D. and Ed.D. in organizational leadership programs focus on producing ethical leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the modern business world. Both programs provide expertise in contemporary leadership theory, strategic planning, and implementing change initiatives.

The scope and length of the P.h.D. and Ed.D. programs differ. The Ph.D. program is theoretical and abstract, research-focused and takes a "big picture" approach throughout 67 credit hours. In comparison, the Ed.D program is practical and applicable, action-based and focused over 61 credit hours.

Johnson University

• Knoxville, TN

Cost per Credit: In-State | $715 Out-of-State | $715

Credits to Graduate: 60

Johnson's online Ph.D. in leadership studies is for working adults interested in exploring leadership through various lenses. The program follows an interdisciplinary design with a focus on four dimensions of leadership studies: individual and personal systems, organizational systems, global systems and research. 

Students focus on articulating biblical, ethical, and philosophical foundations for leadership, demonstrating Christian character through leadership, and making original contributions to the field. Six elective tracks are available, including educational leadership, organizational leadership, and missional leadership.

National University

• San Diego, CA

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs

Cost per Credit: In-State | $328 Out-of-State | $328

NU's online Ph.D. in organizational leadership program offers flexible and individualized education, treating each student as if they were the only person in the class. Entrance exams are not a requirement, saving applicants time and money.

Graduates will be able to evaluate major theories and provide new knowledge to the field of organizational leadership. Major learning focuses include assessing theories related to leading organizations and addressing present-day organizational challenges.

Southeastern University

• Lakeland, FL

Cost per Credit: In-State | $795 Out-of-State | $795

SEU's online Ph.D. in organizational leadership prepares students to become influential thought leaders in the field. The program covers various topics such as organizational systems, leadership models, and research methods.

The program offers opportunities for students to contribute to scholarly journals and give presentations at academic conferences. It combines online coursework with periodic in-person residencies and intensive week-long classes.

Tiffin University

Cost per Credit: In-State | $800 Out-of-State | $800

TU Online's Ph.D. in global leadership and change focuses on building a global perspective and understanding of cultural uniqueness. It also covers skills in leadership, critical thinking, and research methods.

The program caters to working professionals, especially those who may need more time to complete the degree requirements. Students can take up to six years to finish the program and may request an additional course during any term based on their academic ability.

University of the Cumberlands

• Williamsburg, KY

Cost per Credit: In-State | $415 Out-of-State | $415

Cumberlands' online Ph.D. in leadership studies focuses on theories and practices of organizational leadership. The curriculum includes courses on effective leadership, administrative methods, political factors in decision-making and global trends in leadership, applicable in settings like companies and nonprofits.

Cumberlands' programs help current educators obtain a Kentucky Rank 1 certification. Students can transfer up to 30 hours from an approved educational specialist (Ed.S.) program towards the university's leadership studies program. Students must complete the Ed.S. program first to be eligible for the certification.

Vanderbilt University

• Nashville, TN

Cost per Credit: In-State | $2,245 Out-of-State | $2,245

Credits to Graduate: 54

Vanderbilt's online Ed.D. in leadership and learning in organizations program caters to mid-career professionals with at least three years of leadership experience and focuses on developing leaders who can drive positive systemic change in organizations across industries.

Students in the program will learn to use data analytics tools to create organizational growth. They will also develop skills in leadership and organizational development and learning and design. The program includes both online classes and on-campus gatherings.

Why Get a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Online?

• An online doctorate program allows for more flexibility to balance coursework with other priorities.
• Online programs often allow you to save money on tuition, housing, and transportation.
• For working professionals, an online program expands access to top programs and faculty that are not locally available.
• A Ph.D. in organizational leadership can bolster career options, advance your career, and increase earning potential.
• Most programs feature concentrations that align with your academic and career goals.

Organizational Leadership Doctorate Degree Courses

The courses offered in an organizational leadership doctorate program can vary, but classes traditionally cover topics such as leadership theory, strategic leadership, and organizational behavior.

• Leadership and Organizational Cultures: In this course, students explore the complex relationship between leadership and organizational culture. In addition to examining how leaders affect culture, you can also learn to create and sustain productive, ethical cultures that support organizational goals.
• Human Resources Business Strategy: You'll examine the role of HR in driving business planning and performance. Grad students explore ways to evaluate workforce trends and align business goals with HR best practices. You'll also create strategies for talent management, organizational development, and staff engagement.
• Global Issues and Leadership: This course explores how culture and history affect international leadership. Enrollees develop skills and knowledge essential to navigating business challenges in a globalized world. Students examine key world issues, cultural differences in business, and strategies for international collaboration.
• Business Ethics in Leadership: This class covers workplace ethics while evaluating how organizational leaders foster ethical behavior. Students encounter various ethical theories, analyze case studies, and develop ways to create a culture that aligns with organizational values and business interests.
• Dissertation and Capstone Planning: This course prepares doctoral students for their degree-culminating research projects. Degree-seekers develop research questions, review relevant academic studies, design studies, and craft proposals that mirror academic and professional standards. Upon completion, this research project should contribute to the organizational leadership field.

Organizational Leadership Concentrations

Most doctoral programs in organizational leadership allow students to choose an academic concentration that mirrors their academic and career goals. Concentrations can vary among programs, so be sure to prioritize programs that match your interests.

Human Resources

Educational administration, nonprofit and public administration, global consulting, what can you do with a ph.d. in organizational leadership.

With a Ph.D. in organizational leadership, you can pursue various career paths in academia, consulting, and executive leadership. The academic concentration you choose can have a significant impact on career options.

Those interested in academia often secure roles as professors or researchers in colleges and universities. Organizational leadership students pursuing roles in the private sector often work in corporate and nonprofit settings.

Earning a Ph.D. is a solid way to expand your career options and enhance your earning potential. Executives in corporate settings tend to make the most. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from May 2022, chief executive officers (CEOs) earn a median annual salary of $246,440.

Graduates working for nonprofits teaching at a college or university tend to earn less. BLS data indicates that college professors earned a median salary of $80,840 as of May 2022.

Frequently Asked Questions About Organizational Leadership Degrees

• Collapse All

What can you do with a Ph.D. in organizational behavior?

A Ph.D. in organizational leadership or behavior can lead to careers in human resources management, business consulting, and business analysis. This degree is an excellent option for professionals looking to improve organizational outcomes using their high-level research, policymaking, and leadership skills.

Is a Ph.D. in organizational leadership worth it?

Determining whether a Ph.D. in organizational leadership is right for you depends on personal factors. This degree has the potential to advance your career, increase your salary, and grow your expertise in the field of organizational leadership.

What is the difference between a Ph.D. and an Ed.D. in organizational leadership?

The primary difference between a Ph.D. and an Ed.D. in organizational leadership is their academic and professional focus. A Ph.D. program traditionally focuses on research and has an expansive list of professional applications. An Ed.D. degree prioritizes practical application in an educational environment.

How long does it take to get an online Ph.D. in organizational leadership?

The length of an online Ph.D. in organizational leadership can vary depending on the program and whether you're a part-time or full-time student. Generally, online organizational leadership Ph.D. students can graduate in 3-7 years. Additionally, some programs offer accelerated pathways that allow enrollees to graduate more quickly.

Are online Ph.D. programs respected?

So long as the school is accredited, online Ph.D. programs -- including those in organizational leadership -- are equivalent to campus-based programs and deliver the same diplomas. Still, not all online programs are created equally. Be sure to look for programs at accredited institutions and review our guide for the best online Ph.D. in organizational leadership programs.

Do you need a Ph.D. to be a CEO?

You do not need a Ph.D. to be a CEO, but they often come to the table with ample experience and specialized skill sets. Earning a Ph.D. in organizational leadership is one way to establish a set of leadership skills while enhancing your resume and expanding your professional network.

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20 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Programs [PhD & DBA Guide]

If you’re interested in positions of authority within high-level careers, you might benefit from an online doctorate in organizational leadership.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Not only can a PhD program give you the education and experience that you’ll need to succeed, but since it’s delivered online, you won’t be bound to a traditional college campus. You can learn at home from the first class until the last.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate Degrees in Organizational Leadership

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. Colorado Technical University

Opening in 1965 as a private institution, Colorado Technical University is a world-class school that provides thousands of students each year a means to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Colorado Technical University incorporates research and innovation into each program major. Students enrolled at CTU can take advantage of its distance learning program or attend campus-based classes.

Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

2. Concordia University – Irvine

Located in the state of California, Concordia University – Irvine started providing private education in 1976. This faith-based school offers five academic colleges that allow students to earn a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in an array of educational fields. Popular programs at CUI include organization leadership, business, and seminary.

Concordia University – Irvine is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

3. Cornerstone University

Cornerstone University believes in helping every student grow educationally, mentally, and spiritually since 1941. this private Christian School offers undergraduate and graduate degrees to students in a variety of academic fields. Programs offered at cornerstone University are based in liberal arts And hands-on learning experiences.

Organization leadership, education, and journalism are some examples of majors offered at CU.

Cornerstone University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

4. East Tennessee State University

Opening its doors in 1911, East Tennessee State University is among the ranks of large public schools in Tennessee. This world-class University Graduates thousands each year who have achieved an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree. There are many academic areas to choose from at East Tennessee State University.

East Tennessee State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

5. Eastern University

With more than 160 undergraduate and graduate degrees to choose from, Eastern University opened for operation in 1925. This faith-based private college encourages students to take part in community service projects and volunteerism while enrolled.

Offering a dynamic distance learning program, students at Eastern University have access to accelerated learning programs that can let them graduate in less time.

Eastern University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

6. Franklin University

Founded in 1902, Franklin University is a private postsecondary school that helps students around the world achieve their personal and professional goals. Offering various academic disciplines leading to bachelor’s, master’s, and professional degrees, Franklin University adds practical learning and rigorous content to every program offered.

Online and traditional courses are available at Franklin University.

Franklin University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. Gonzaga University

Established in 1887, Gonzaga University brings spirituality and hands-on learning into the classroom. This private university has more than one hundred undergraduate and graduate degree options to help students reach their full potential.

Some degree options include law, organization leadership, and nursing. Each program has a liberal arts foundation to give a well-rounded education.

Gonzaga University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

8. Governors State University

Located on a beautiful campus in the heart of Illinois, Governors State University was opened in 1969. This public educational facility allows students to obtain a bachelor’s, master’s, or professional degree in more than fifty academic areas.

Offering both online and on-campus formats, Governors State University has a variety of options to help students be successful.

Governors State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

9. Grand Canyon University

Students around the world are turning to Grand Canyon University for all of their educational needs. Grand Canyon University opened in 1949 and provides a private, faith-based education in more than 200 academic disciplines.

Students attending Grand Canyon University have the ability to obtain an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree.

Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

10. Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University was created in 1920 and has continued to grow ever since. Today Indiana Wesleyan University is a leader in private educational services. Offering a variety of Christian based programs, IWU has a path for students to earn a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.

Study abroad programs and distance learning allows IWU to reach students internationally.

Indiana Wesleyan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

11. Johnson University

Opening in 1893, Johnson University is one of the most affordable private colleges in the nation. It offers over 70 academic degree programs that help students achieve undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees.

Based in liberal arts with a Christian foundation, students who graduate from Johnson University obtain a well-rounded education.

Johnson University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

12. Liberty University

Founded in 1971, Liberty University’s campus is wide-reaching, as the campus can be found in Virginia or on the internet. It has more than 100,000 students enrolled in virtual and traditional learning programs.

This private school offers associate, bachelor’s, and graduate degrees in more than 600 disciplines. Liberty University is a Christian school with a diverse global population.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

13. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University has been helping students invest in their future since 1964. This private postsecondary school Offers more than 150 academic disciplines in small class sizes to students seeking undergraduate or graduate degrees.

Research in technology is built into every course offered at Nova Southeastern University in order to help students become global competitors in their field.

Nova Southeastern University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

14. Pepperdine University

Helping students achieve their academic goals since 1937, Pepperdine University is well known for its academic excellence and rigorous course content. This private Religious- based University offers an assortment of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees.

It has over seventy academic areas of study that include organizational leadership, business, and law.

Pepperdine is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges—Senior College and University Commission.

15. Regent University

Regent University was founded in 1977 as a private theological postsecondary school. Offering both online and in-class curriculums, Regent University has a path for students to earn a two-year, four-year, or graduate degree in a plethora of academic fields.

Students around the globe turn to Regent University for their excellence in educational and spiritual guidance.

Regent University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

16. Southeastern University

With more than sixty-five-degree options leading to a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, Southeastern University has been serving the community since 1935.

Located in Lakeland, Florida, Southeastern University helps more than 7,000 students pursue private education each year through traditional courses and distance learning options. Popular programs include business, organizational leadership, and health care.

SEU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

17. University of Massachusetts – Global

Opened in 1958, the University of Massachusetts Global is a private postsecondary school that provides education to a diverse student population. Students attending UMass Global have the option to attend courses online or through campus-based learning programs.

UMass Global offers numerous academic programs that lead to undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degrees to help students become leaders in their field.

The University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WSCUC Senior College and University Commission.

18. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California first started offering educational services to the public in 1880. Located in the heart of Los Angeles, his public school enrolls more than 50,000 students every year in undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs.

The University of Southern California encompasses is a global population through distance learning in study abroad programs.

The University of Southern California is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

19. University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands open its doors in 1888 and has been working to help students gain higher education ever since. This private school offers a means of achieving an undergraduate or graduate degree. Still, it also allows students to turn community service into college credit when related to the academic subject.

The University of the Cumberlands  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

20. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Commenced in 1979, the Chicago School of Professional Psychology is a private educational entity that provides a diverse, inclusive atmosphere for all learners. CSPP helps students to earn their undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree in over twenty academic areas.

Serving students throughout the world, CSPP brings fieldwork, practical learning, and critical thinking to all educational disciplines.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

Online Doctorates in Organizational Leadership

You’ll have several options when it comes to an online PhD in leadership. You could even look outside of the “organizational leadership” label since there are plenty of business-related degrees that offer specializations and concentrations in leadership theory.

Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

PhD in Organizational Leadership

Edd in organizational leadership.

There are two main types of organizational leadership degrees, and while they’re quite similar, they have some notable differences as well.

The most straightforward path, however, is a doctorate in organizational leadership. This degree can help prepare you for senior-level positions in a wide variety of agencies and organizations. It has a multidisciplinary focus that brings together subjects like business, finance, economics, education, technology, policy and more.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Organizational Leadership has a strong emphasis on research. You can expect to have to find, track, pull, analyze and systematize data from various sources, and you’ll probably generate a fair bit of your own, especially for your dissertation.

After you graduate, your PhD can help qualify you for everything from professorships to pastorships. With this degree, you can pursue work in many different fields, including education, healthcare, human resources, international business and more. You may also stay in academia as a researcher or industry scholar.

A Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Leadership is designed for students who want to go into research, education or a mixture of both. From a business perspective, it could mean managing organizations from the top down or even teaching or training others to do the same.

Practically speaking, an EdD has a bit more of a “real-world” reputation to it. It’s commonly attained by working professionals rather than full-time students, and once you graduate, it can be applied to many different types of careers that involve supervising or instructing others. Every industry needs people to train fresh recruits.

Organizational Leadership Careers & Salaries

What can you do with a doctorate in organizational leadership? The short answer is “a lot.” Depending on your specialization, you could potentially become everything from a university professor to the head honcho of a private business.

Good leadership is a critical component in any industry, so whether you’re interested in business, education, finance, technology, retail or dozens of other fields, an online degree in organizational leadership can open a lot of doors.

The payoff for your education may be quite impressive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a PhD holder is $110,200 per year. High earners in the organizational leadership field can top $100,000 and $150,000 per year.

Some careers that may await you after grad school include:

It’s important to note that these numbers only represent median salaries. Full pay ranges will be much broader. For example, management analysts can earn anywhere from $50,990 – $156,840 per year, but their median pay is $87,660. Additionally, having an online PhD in leadership will bump the median pay to $110,200.

Keep all of this in mind as you browse wage information. You’ll want to make smart and accurate assessments of your future earning potential before you enroll in a degree program.

Organizational Leadership Specializations & Concentrations

If you already have a specific field of interest, you might want to consider a concentration or emphasis for your organizational leadership degree. It can qualify you for a higher, more specialized tier of jobs, and it can teach you the skills that you’ll need to succeed once you’re there.

• Business Leadership: Designed for future business leaders, this is a concentration that can draw on everything from communication and delegation to organizational design and infrastructure.
• Ecclesial Leadership: This is a track offered by faith-based schools that can prepare students for work in religious institutions or missionary groups.
• Educational Leadership: Educational leadership is a wide-ranging specialization that can cover everything from primary school principals to college deans and school board directors.
• Entrepreneurial Leadership: This specialty is focused on the creation and development of businesses just as much as the management of them. It can be ideal for future consultants, liaisons and problem solvers.
• Global Consulting: With an international focus, this specialization is designed for globetrotting business or government leaders who expect to work a lot with different countries and cultures.
• Healthcare Leadership: Healthcare leadership is focused on running the industry from the non-medical side, so expect classes in administration, ethics, technology and policy.
• Higher Education Administration: Another administrative-based specialty, this one is devoted to education professionals on the postsecondary level.
• Human Resource Development: Human resources is a common career track for organizational leadership students, and this specialization covers the basics, including payroll, talent acquisition, employee conflicts and more.
• Primary Education Leadership: This concentration is for the unique challenges faced by primary-level educators, administrators and directors.

You can also look into professional certifications in your field of choice. Some universities even offer degree credits for them.

Choosing a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree

What makes a good doctorate program? While everyone has their own criteria, there are certain standards and benchmarks that you can use to narrow down your options.

The first thing to consider is the quality of the college. Is it accredited? Does it have professors who are highly accomplished in their fields? Where does it rank with sources like the US News and World Report?

Since you’ll be earning your degree online, you’ll also want to consider how classes and fellowships are handled for long-distance learners. You might need to put in some facetime for practicums, dissertations or research opportunities, so what arrangements will you be expected to make with the school?

Finally, consider the degree that you want. Think about the specializations that are available to you and the classes and internships that you can experience. Which schools offer the most bang for your buck in terms of what you’re excited about in a PhD program?

Organizational Leadership Curriculum & Courses

When it comes to PhDs, no two programs are alike. This is especially true for organizational leadership PhDs that can draw from a wide range of academic disciplines depending on its areas of focus.

If you’re concentrating on business leadership, for example, your days might be filled with finance and economics. If you’re studying educational leadership, you might attend a lot of seminars on K-12 infrastructure.

Here’s a small list of courses that you might take for doctorate-level organizational leadership. It’s by no means an exhaustive list, but it should give you a general idea of what your experience might be like as a PhD candidate.

• Organizational Design: One of the most common courses for organizational leadership students, Organizational Design focuses on the different ways that companies structure themselves.
• Research Methods: Since research is a critical component of earning a PhD, you might be expected to take classes in everything from textual analysis to technical writing.
• Data Analytics: These classes have many different names, but they’re all related to the gathering, tracking, analyzing and organizing of data for the purpose of things like organizational efficiency and risk management.
• Leadership Theory and Practice: These courses cover the basics of leadership, including communication, personnel management and strategic decision making. They frequently have an in-person element for real-world practice as an authority figure.
• Policy: Policy is the meter that moves many factions of business, including specialties like healthcare and nonprofit management. These classes cover policy from creation to implementation.
• Business Administration: While you might have covered this topic on the bachelor’s or master’s level, a doctorate program in organizational leadership can help prepare you for administrative challenges as a high-level professional.
• Strategic Foresight: Another area of study that can go by different names, Strategic Foresight revolves around the assessment of markets, economies and sociopolitical trends to predict future business prospects.
• Diversity and Inclusion: It’s become increasingly common for business-related degree programs to offer classes in cultural sensitivity. Some are optional electives while others are required credits for graduation.
• Fieldwork: Many PhD programs have an unavoidable “fieldwork” component that can take the form of residencies, internships, fellowships, practice seminars and more. If you’ll be earning an online degree, you’ll need to figure out how these requirements are handled for distance learners.
• Dissertation: A dissertation is required of almost all PhD programs, so expect to spend one or more semesters on proposals, drafts, reviews and other necessary elements of completing it.

For a closer look at organizational leadership courses on the PhD level, contact the university that you’re interested in and ask about their specific programs.

Admissions Requirements

You’ve probably heard about the difficulty of getting into a good PhD program. While it’s true that competition can be fierce, you can increase your odds of success by understanding the school’s admissions requirements and knocking it out of the park with the entire application process.

• Transcripts: Most PhD programs will ask for your full academic record, including your bachelor’s and master’s degree transcripts.
• GMAT/GRE Scores: While “test-optional” universities are becoming increasingly common, it’s still the norm for doctorate programs to require either the GMAT or the GRE.
• Letters of Recommendation: You’ll need several letters of recommendation from professors and industry professionals. If you know any alumni of the school that you’re applying to, that can be a big bonus.
• GPA: A low GPA isn’t an automatic disqualification for a PhD program, but your admission might come with restrictions.
• Statement of Purpose: This is your chance to personalize your application as well as include any other important accomplishments related to work, research or volunteerism.

You’ll also want to pay attention to deadlines. It’s common for PhD programs to require several months of preparation, so don’t wait until the last minute to start gathering your transcripts and getting your letters of recommendation.

Accreditation

As someone who’s already been through several years of college, you’re probably familiar with the importance of accreditation, but it’s just as relevant to your doctorate program as your bachelor’s and master’s programs.

It can impact things like credits, transfers and financial aid opportunities, and it can play a big role in how future employers determine the legitimacy of your degree.

If you need a refresher, here are the three types of accreditation:

• Regional accreditation
• National accreditation
• Programmatic accreditation

Regional and national accreditation is also called “institutional accreditation” since it’s applied to entire universities. Programmatic accreditation, on the other hand, is applied to specific schools, departments and degree programs within universities.

For additional information about accreditation, check out accrediting organizations like the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). They even have a searchable database on their website where you can look for specific schools and their accreditation statuses.

Organizational Leadership Professional Organizations

As a future leader of your field, you could benefit tremendously from the resources and networks of professional organizations. Not only do they offer things like scholarships, job boards, certification programs and discounts on industry-specific products and services, but they can put you in contact with people that you’ll need to know for the future.

Here are just a few groups that might interest you as a student of organizational leadership:

• American Leadership Development Association: The ALDA is for leaders who want to train other leaders. It offers a variety of resources for both free and paid members, including articles, awards and networking groups.
• National Management Association: With more than 22,000 members, the NMA is a fast-growing nonprofit organization that hosts everything from speech contests to annual conferences and expos.
• Organization Development Network: Dedicated to organizational development specialists, the OD Network is an international group for managers, directors and leaders of all types.

You can also look for other professional organizations that are dedicated to business leaders and educators. For example, the Association for Talent Development (ATD) might boost your career in human resources. The Academy of International Business (AIB) might be relevant to your interests as a student of global affairs.

What Can You Do With a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership?

A doctorate in organizational leadership can prepare you for high-level careers in a variety of fields.

As befitting the leadership label, many jobs will have “manager,” “director” or “chief officer” in the title. Your coursework should prepare you for the challenges of things like supervising teams and analyzing business structures.

If you choose to concentrate your studies in something specific, you can also find niche or specialized jobs in your chosen field.

For example, if you want to go into human resources, you might become a recruitment officer, benefits administrator, department director or employee relations manager. Even though they’re all senior-level positions in HR, there are different degrees and certificates available for their different focus areas.

What is an Organizational Leadership Degree?

A degree in organizational leadership can help prepare you for the realities of creating, managing and restructuring businesses. It can teach everything from workflow operations to human psychology, and it can lead to jobs in finance, education, healthcare, government, information technology and more.

For those who have already obtained a bachelor’s or master’s degree, a PhD or EdD can represent the very top of their educational summit. It might be the last thing that they need to qualify for a high-level job in a position of professional authority.

Are Online PhD Programs Credible?

While you should definitely be on alert for fraudulent colleges that promise fake degrees, there are plenty of real, trustworthy programs for online PhDs and EdDs. Here are a few signs of legitimacy:

• Accreditation. They have regional or national accreditation through their university, or they’ve been programmatically accredited by an industry-recognized organization.
• Reputable origins. Some online degree programs are just extensions or alternatives to the degree programs that are offered on a college’s physical campus. They’ll still come from the same school, have the same professors and require the same academic rigor.
• High standards. Be wary of an online program that makes too many promises or offers too many shortcuts. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Always do your research when it comes to online degrees, especially when they’re as important as a PhD.

What is a Doctorate of Strategic Leadership?

A Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) is a degree that’s quite similar to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Leadership. They’re all focused on smart, effective leadership in professional settings, and in many cases, employers will view them interchangeably.

They differ in some of the subjects that they teach and some of the specializations that they can have.

Is a PhD in Organizational Leadership Worth it?

While everyone has their own opinion about what constitutes a good, worthwhile degree, a doctorate in organizational leadership can offer a lot of benefits to prospective students.

For starters, it’s a very flexible degree. You can earn either a PhD or EdD in it, and you can choose whether to study leadership as a general subject or with a specialized focus in a particular field.

An organizational leadership degree can also open doors in many different industries. Whether you’re interested in business, retail, healthcare, government or even religion, every industry needs leaders.

Last but not least, a doctorate in organizational leadership can be rewarding. It isn’t uncommon for the top earners of the field to reach six figures or more. It’s definitely a degree that has the potential to pay for itself down the line.

How Long Does it Take to Get a PhD in Organizational Leadership?

It typically takes anywhere from 3 – 5 years to get an online PhD in organizational leadership. Full-time students usually graduate faster than part-time students.

Your timetable can also depend on the coursework and fieldwork requirements of your particular university: If you’re enrolled in a program that has a lot of practicums, you might take longer to finish than someone with a more self-paced, research-based degree.

What is the Difference Between an Organizational Leadership EdD and PhD?

There’s a lot of overlap between a PhD and an EdD. These programs also bear striking similarities to online MBA in organizational leadership programs, DSLs and other doctorate degrees.

Their difference lies in their educational experiences:

• A PhD tends to be more research-based than other degrees and typically requires a dissertation with original research and analysis before you can graduate.
• EdDs and DSLs tend to have more of a real-world focus. They may or may not require a dissertation, and if they do, the research usually involves real-world problems and solutions rather than purely theoretical research.

You might also see EdDs and DSLs referred to as “professional doctoral degrees” since they can be considered specialty degrees that are offshoots of a “regular” doctoral degree.

Are There Any Affordable Doctoral Programs in Organizational Leadership?

The cost of PhD programs vary drastically from school to school. It’s hard to even talk about ballpark figures since your bill can depend on multiple factors:

• Are you receiving any financial aid in the form of grants, loans or scholarships?
• Are you enrolled in any fellowships or assistanceships that will lower your tuition costs?
• Are you eligible for a stipend?

Some students are able to get fully-funded PhDs where all costs are covered by their university. As you might imagine, however, these free rides are both limited and highly competitive, and you might not be eligible for them as an online student. Talk to your school to figure out your options when it comes to affording your PhD.

How Much Can You Make With a PhD in Organizational Leadership?

Doctorate degrees can be highly lucrative, especially those related to organizational leadership. If you’re able to secure a senior staff position at a successful company, you could earn as much as six figures per year.

Just keep in mind that the average salaries that you see online aren’t always a true representation of earning potential.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, for example, training and development managers make an average of $115,640 per year. However, their full salary range is $66,270 – $200,210 per year.

You could wind up making less than half or twice as much as the average.

Getting Your Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Online

Maybe you’re planning for the future as a bachelor’s or master’s student. Maybe you’re already working in your chosen industry, but you want to go back to school to further your career prospects or increase your earning potential.

Whatever your reasons for looking at online PhD programs in organizational leadership, you’re making a wise choice. It’s a degree that can offer a lot of flexibility and opportunity to graduates. The salaries can top six figures per year, and the job options can range from business and finance to academia and religious leadership.

Reach out to universities and ask about their organizational leadership degrees. Competition can be fierce for admission to PhD programs, so it never hurts to inquire early.

Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership

Overview of the doctor of philosophy - organizational leadership.

Do you aspire to truly make a significant difference in the world? The Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership is a rigorous and award-winning program designed to equip students not only to receive doctoral degrees, but to experience personal transformation and become a more effective leader. This program emphasizes leadership through a global and multicultural lens, specifically valuing inclusion, integrity, and international perspectives. If you aspire to executive leadership, consulting, publishing, research, and/or teaching, this Ph.D. program will help you develop a wide array of skills in scholarly research, writing, presentation, and bridging leadership theory into expert leadership practice.  The Ph.D. is considered the highest academic degree that can be awarded by a university.

• C omplete the Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership online program in as few as four (4) years.
• Online program with an in-person residency during the July session.
• A mixture of required and optional synchronous sessions throughout the program.

Start Your Journey

SOME OF OUR PH.D. AWARDS AND RANKINGS

#2 Top Leadership Ph.D.

#4 Best Leadership Doctorate

#14 Top Leadership Doctorate

#4 Online Leadership Ph.D. Program

You’ll learn to….

• Build skills for future opportunities in teaching, research, publication, and leadership
• Work effectively with colleagues, establish an organizational mission, inspire others, and collaborate to achieve goals
• Synthesize research and theory for practical application
• Integrate your faith and multicultural perspectives into the theoretical and practical understanding of organizational leadership

Career Options

• Professor in Higher Education
• Executive-Level Organizational Leadership

Here is the list of courses required to complete the program. Full course descriptions may be viewed by clicking on the course titles. For further information, feel free to contact us.

24 Core Courses

These courses contain the program-specific content. If needed, additional terms to complete the dissertation will be done in DOL 922: Dissertation Continuation, at 1 credit hour per each term.

DOL-715,DOL-720,DOL-735,DOL-740,DOL-750,DOL-760A,DOL-760B,DOL-760C,DOL-800,DOL-810,DOL-820,DOL-830,DOL-840,DOL-855,DOL-860A,DOL-860B,DOL-860C,DOL-875,DOL-880,DOL-885,DOL-915,DOL-920,DOL-920,DOL-920

The total cost of the Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership online program, including tuition and any fees, will be determined prior to your enrollment. Payment for each course is due three weeks before the course begins. Course textbooks are not included in the costs listed above. Additionally, students will accrue other costs related to a required scholarship presentation, comprehensive exam, dissertation, and some Summer Residency expenses that are not included in the costs listed above. The total credit hours and per-credit-hour costs listed above are effective for the core program. For prerequisite or other required courses if applicable, students will need to pay for appropriate tuition, books, and any additional fees. Costs may change if you withdraw from the program and restart in a future program at a later date.

FINANCIAL AID

Financial aid is available in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, veterans benefits, and employer reimbursement.

Joanne Barnes

Professor [email protected] View Profile

Mark Rennaker

Division Chair [email protected] View Profile

Mike Linville

Professor [email protected] View Profile

Patricia Johnson

Associate Professor [email protected] View Profile

Timothy Beuthin

Professor [email protected] View Profile

Tiffany Ann Johns

Assistant Professor [email protected] View Profile

REQUIREMENTS

Click on each section to expand the different requirements for the online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership degree program. If you have any questions about the admissions process, feel free to contact one of our admissions representatives at 1-866-498-4968. An admissions representative can also arrange a phone call for you with one of our doctoral faculty members or a current student to further discuss the program.

Admission Requirements

• A master's degree from a college or university that is accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by both the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) verified on original transcripts sent by the institution directly to Indiana Wesleyan University.
• A graduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher from the master's degree granting institution at which at least a minimum of 24 hours was completed.
• A minimum of five years of leadership experience in the workplace, volunteer organizations, or the classroom.
• Submission of all documents required by the Admissions Selection Committee and approval by the committee for admission into the program.

Application Process

The goal is to admit highly qualified students, with clear career objectives, who choose to enter the doctoral program after obtaining a master's degree. To apply for admission to the doctoral program, the applicant must complete the following steps:

• Submit a formal application. Send a current resume that includes a career objective, previous undergraduate and graduate work, work experience, and special recognition or awards. The resume should make clear the number of employees the applicant has supervised in all leadership positions.
• Send at least three recommendation forms including one from the applicant’s current manager (this may be the chairman of the board of directors or a peer at another organization for CEOs), one from an academic in higher education, and one from someone that can speak to the spiritual character of the applicant.
• Title page -typed, double-spaced, and numbered with a minimum of five pages and a maximum of six pages.
• Clear and convincing responses to the questions. 4.A.3.a Packet Pg. 27 Attachment: MPO PhD 8-10-2023 (11147 : DBTL_MPO_PhD) Revised: EE-5/3/23 o Organization and presentation (i.e., readability and formatting).
• Evidence of critical thinking that supports the point and perspectives of the essay.
• Use of appropriate vocabulary and grammar.
• Evidence of scholarly (academic) writing skills that demonstrates an ability to analyze and integrate literature from the leadership field.
• Arrange to have official graduate transcript sent from the accredited institution granting the degree. Transcripts should be supplied from all institutions the applicant has attended subsequent to the completion of the bachelor’s degree.

Prospective students with disabilities are not required to identify themselvesto Admissions or Disability Services. However, those interested in receiving academic accommodations are encouraged to connect with Disability Services at 765-677-2257 or [email protected] as early as possible to allow for a review of documentation and the formulation of an accommodation plan.

Admission Status

Consistent with the College of Adult and Professional Studies (CAPS) categories for admitted students, Ph.D. students may be accepted in one of the following designations:

Regular – candidate satisfactorily meet all requirements. Student may be granted regular admission with no restrictions.

Probation – candidate has GPA, graduate program, leadership experience, or application essay-based items that fall below minimum requirements. Student may be granted probationary status that can be removed by achieving the minimum GPA (3.25) after taking the two sessions in the program (typically three or four courses). The Dean/Chair my extend the probation and determine the number of courses to be completed in order to change status. Any student failing to remove the probationary status will be academically suspended from the program.

Provisional – candidate has incomplete application file (e.g., in process of completing master’s degree). Student may be granted provisional acceptance pending completion of file prior to the end of first course. Failure to meet deadline will result in the dismissal from the program.

Unclassified – candidate not pursuing university degree. In special circumstances, a candidate may be accepted as an unclassified student and able to take up to 12 hours of doctoral work with approval of the division chair. Financial Aid restrictions may apply. Students receiving unclassified status must reapply for regular admission it they desire later to pursue a degree program.

Deferral and Alternative Start

A student accepted into the Ph.D. program may request a one-time deferral to the next cohort start. For example, a student accepted for January start may defer start to the following July cohort. A student accepted for July start may defer to the following January cohort. After one deferral, the student must re-apply for admission to the program. The Admissions Selection Committee retains the right to waive the one-deferral restriction for special circumstances.

Upon acceptance into the program and completion of academic and financial clearance, a student may start the program, after conferring with the Division Chair, by taking the one-credit hour DOL 760A by itself when offered or by taking courses in different combinations, subject to pre-requisite conditions, creating a starting sequence of courses that builds to a full load. An alternative start sequence will lengthen the amount of time spent in coursework and the degree program to completion.

Graduation Requirements

• Minimum grade of "B-" in each course.
• Cumulative GPA of 3.25.
• Successful completion of all required coursework and the comprehensive exam.
• Successful defense of dissertation, including post-defense updates, academic integrity review, and professional editing.
• Completion of dissertation publication process with OCLS is required to have the degree conferred.
• Student may be allowed to participate in commencement after successful defense of dissertation and completion of post-defense updates but prior to completion of full dissertation publication process with OCLS.
• Payment of tuition and fees is required to receive a diploma.

*Note: With approval of the Division Chair, students who complete all current 700 and 800-level courses (48 credit hours) in the program may be conferred the Master of Arts in Advanced Leadership Studies (MAALS) degree. Students who receive the MAALS are not eligible to receive the IWU Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership.

Additional Requirements

Attendance Policy

All doctoral courses are a blend of live and interactive online discussions. Students are expected to attend all required live sessions and substantively engage in all interactive online discussions, tests, quizzes, and prescribed learning activities.

• Synchronous Class Sessions – Required synchronous classes are held on Saturdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and meet on the second, fourth, and eighth Saturdays of the September, January, and April sessions. Students are expected to be in attendance when class begins and remain the entire session. A student may be allowed one absence per course. An allowed absence is to be used only when absolutely necessary and requires approval from the faculty member teaching the course. Students need to contact the faculty member regarding make-up work, if allowed by the faculty member. The criteria for full participation attendance points will be determined by the faculty member. Due to a holiday or university activities, synchronous sessions may be scheduled on alternative weeks.
• Online Attendance – Course attendance also is determined by participating in weekly discussions. Failure to participate in the weekly discussion forum(s) will constitute an absence for that week. Participating in discussion does not guarantee full participation attendance points. The criteria for full, substantive participation points will be determined by the course professor. A student may be allowed one participation absence per course. Students need to contact the faculty member regarding make-up work, if allowed.
• Excessive Absences - A student is allowed only one absence per course, whether it is a synchronous Saturday or online participation absence (not one of each). If a student exceeds the allowed absences without instructor approval and does not contact the Division Office or Student and Faculty Support Office to officially withdraw before the last class session, the professor is directed to issue the grade of "F." A student accruing excessive absences in the final week of the course will be issued the grade of “F.”
• Course Sequence - Students are expected to take courses in the predetermined sequence. Students needing to withdraw while in a course may do so with permission of the Division Chair and by arrangement with the Student and Faculty Support Office prior to the end of the course, but the regular refund and academic withdrawal policies apply. Students who are unable to participate in a course due to unavoidable circumstances may arrange for a temporary Leave of Absence (LOA) with the Student and Faculty Support Office, subject to LOA requirements. Students may follow a revised schedule of courses in the program with the permission of the Division Chair.

Ph.D. students must complete a minimum of three residencies during their doctoral program as demonstrated by inperson attendance and successful completion of courses in the July term-session in which the student is enrolled. These Summer Residencies normally are attended during consecutive years corresponding to the coursework phase of the degree program, but attendance at Summer Residency is required for any courses taken during the July term session each year.

• Residencies may be for 7 - 8 days, often beginning on a Friday or Saturday and lasting through the following Friday. The duration of a residency may be shorter depending upon the design of a specific residency. Students will be provided the designated date ranges for three years of residencies upon enrollment at the beginning of their program to assist in planning. However, dates may be changed due to extenuating circumstances.
• Residencies may occur on the main Indiana Wesleyan University campus, at one of the regional education centers, or in a hotel or other conference venue. Students are expected to be in attendance every day of each residency and are not allowed an absence from required workshops, events, or class sessions that are scheduled during the residency.
• Failure to attend a residency or residency component may qualify as an unexcused absence, resulting in failure of the course(s) for the session.
• Students are required to utilize housing options (e.g., blocked hotel rooms) reserved by the program for residency due to contractual obligations that often occur with the hotel or venue hosting the residency.
• In unusual circumstances, a student may be given permission by the Division Chair to skip a year and attend the residency another year by taking an available course(s) for the July session.
• Students are expected to follow the community lifestyle statement of the university while attending the residency.

Withdrawal from a Course

A student that withdraws from a course will need to get permission from the Division Chair to continue in the program and will need to follow the plan of study prescribed by the Division Chair.

Students needing to withdraw officially from a course will be required to contact the Division Office or the Office of Online & Student Success. Tuition will be reimbursed according to the following schedule:

• 100% of the tuition fee if withdrawing within the first seven days of the course,
• 90% of the tuition fee if withdrawing between the 8th and by the 14th day of the course,
• 50% of the tuition fee if withdrawing between the 15th and by the 21st day of the course, and
• No refund after the 21st day from the start date of the course.

A student withdrawing from a course less than one week from the end of the course will be assigned the letter grade earned in the course. Students may only withdraw from a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership course twice during their program. Following the second instance of withdrawal in a specific course, the letter grade earned will be applied for the successive attempt in the course.

A student withdrawing from the Summer Residency less than 10 days prior to the start of the summer term, withdrawing after Summer Residency reservation deadline dates imposed by host venues, or failing to utilize the housing options (e.g., blocked hotel rooms) reserved by the program for residency will be assessed all or part of residency fees and subsequent housing fees to cover the costs of room, meals, or other expenses accrued by the program on behalf of the student in planning the residency. Residency fees are non-refundable.

Academic Standing

Students enrolled in the Ph.D. program are regarded as members of the academic community of Indiana Wesleyan University and are held responsible for conducting themselves in conformity with the standards of conduct for adult learners. Continued enrollment in the program is at all times subject to a review of the student’s academic record and of the student’s actions with regard to observance of university rules and regulations and professional conduct. Students failing to maintain professional conduct may be dismissed from the program.

• Academic Probation - Students enrolled in the Ph.D. program will be placed on probation if their cumulative GPA at any time falls below the required 3.25 GPA for graduation Students are given six months (two sessions of courses) to satisfactorily raise their GPA. The GPA is reviewed after the six-month probationary period, and if it has been successfully raised, the probationary status is removed. Academic suspension will result if the student’s GPA is not successfully raised.
• A student fails to clear the academic probationary status within the six-month probationary period.
• A student has taken a course twice and failed to achieve a satisfactory grade.

In all cases, the suspension will occur once the grades have been recorded in the Registrar’s Office. Students will be notified of the academic suspension in writing. A student will be eligible to reapply for admission on a provisional basis after six months, but only upon the recommendation of the Dean of the DeVoe School of Business, Technology, & Leadership.

• Academic Dismissal - Upon a second academic suspension in the Ph.D. program, a student is dismissed from the program. A student dismissed from the program for any reason is not eligible to reapply to the Ph.D. program.

Re-enrollment

A student who has not attended courses for three years or less and who wishes to re-enroll in the Ph.D. program must first contact the Division Chair to complete a re-enrollment request. The Division Chair may confer with the Admissions Committee to determine eligibility for re-enrollment. If re-enrollment is approved, the student may reenroll in the program after going through the university re-entry protocols. Students who have not attended courses for three years or more are not eligible for re-entry to the program unless the program version has changed such that they would be able to earn 60 new, unique credits when compared to their previous program of study.

Students sitting out of the program for more than 90 days are subject to current tuition rates upon returning. Students re-entering after six months are subject to any changes made in the curriculum in the intervening time as well as current catalog policy. Re-enrollment is limited to those in the coursework phase.

Academic Load

Students may enroll in no more than 6 credit hours per term. Overload requests must be submitted in writing to the Division of Leadership and Followership Studies and reviewed, as needed, through the academic petition process.

Comprehensive Examination

After the completion of all coursework (DOL courses numbered DOL-915 and lower), a comprehensive examination will be administered to each student in the Ph.D. program. This exam will be designed to:

• Determine the student’s grasp of leadership understanding across the curriculum;
• Assess the student’s ability to adapt and integrate leadership theory and current best practices across the curriculum, including the integration of faith and practice;
• Give the student the opportunity to demonstrate higher-order thinking with reference to Organizational Leadership theory and practice.

The exam will be constructed to cover the major domains of the program and will be administered by a committee of full-time faculty in the Division of Leadership and Followership Studies or other qualified faculty as determined by the division. The Comprehensive Examination Manual is published annually. Students are required to follow all policies, procedures, and guidelines contained in the most recent guide. Students must successfully pass the Comprehensive Exam to become dissertation students in the program.

The Dissertation

The dissertation will be a research-based, practice-centered inquiry that attests to the student's understanding of the field and ability to conduct scholarly inquiry about an issue related to leadership practices and performance in organizations from which other leaders can benefit. In addition, the research must provide a unique contribution to the understanding of organizational leadership.

Students must conduct primary research using qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods, or any other type of research that meets the approval of their Dissertation Committee. The dissertation is expected to meet the highest standards of scholarship and inquiry and should demonstrate doctoral-level composition and format. The student should identify the problem and its significance, outline the background and literature that informs the problem, and collect and analyze data. The process should result in a written document detailing findings, implications, and recommendations for future policy, governance, and/or practice.

Dissertation Requirements

For the Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership major, coursework comprises 48 credit hours. Then, the dissertation includes a minimum of an additional 12 hours. Three credit hours of a Dissertation Seminar (DOL-915) and nine credit hours of dissertation credit after DOL-915 are required to reach the 12 credit-hour dissertation threshold. The coursework (48 hours) and dissertation (12 hours) combine to make the Organizational Leadership major a 60-credit hour program.

Every Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership student will be required to write and defend a dissertation. The Organizational Leadership course of study emphasizes the development of theory-in-use research and skills with a practitioner focus. A doctoral research study addresses a problem of practice, where the focus is upon the integration of knowledge or its application. A dissertation generates or confirms knowledge and expanded capacity while linking theory-in-use to current best practice. The process of scholarship, research, and leadership utilizes a variety of research methods, including empirical, interpretive, or critical. All doctoral research studies and dissertations will result in a substantial written document.

A Dissertation Manual will be released annually by the Division of Leadership and Followership Studies. Students are required to follow all policies, procedures, and guidelines contained in the most recent manual. Students should consult their Dissertation Chair regarding specific questions related to the requirements of the Dissertation Manual.

Dissertation Continuation

Doctoral students not completing the dissertation by the end of the 12 hours of dissertation courses (DOL 915 and DOL 920) will be required to maintain continuous enrollment. They will be required to enroll in a one-hour Dissertation Continuation course (DOL-922) with the university each successive term until the dissertation is successfully defended or the maximum time for degree completion is reached. Students will pay the one-hour tuition fee per term to maintain continuous enrollment. Failure to remain enrolled during the dissertation continuation phase will result in dismissal from the program with no opportunity to re-enroll in the program.

START DATES

The Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership at Indiana Wesleyan University has many convenient starts throughout the year. Listed below are the next available starts. If you don’t see a start that fits your schedule, connect with our enrollment team to see more future starts.

Accreditation

Indiana Wesleyan University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), www.hlcommission.org, 312-263-0456. Other accreditations and associations of Indiana Wesleyan University are available at www.indwes.edu/about/iwu-profile/accreditation.

*Effective 07-01-2023 through 06-30-2024

Indiana Wesleyan University is a Christ-centered academic community committed to changing the world by developing students in character, scholarship, and leadership.

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