fully funded phd programs in leadership

PhD in Management Program

A phd in management: where business research and education intersect.

Become an industry thought leader while preparing tomorrow’s business leaders.

Our fully funded PhD in Management is designed for ambitious students and professionals interested in a career in university teaching and research.

This residential program, based at the Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management in Ithaca, NY, combines Ivy League rigor and real-world relevance to prepare you for successful careers in academia.

Why Get a PhD in Management?

With a strong focus on management science and applied research, this doctoral degree is ideal for someone looking to teach at the university level and contribute to the greater body of industry knowledge. Pursuing a PhD in Management is also an ideal next step for executives and senior managers who want to make a transition to academia or enhance their research skills for a successful consulting career.

Fully Funded, Highly Flexible: What Makes Cornell’s Management PhD Different?

As you explore PhD programs’ degree requirements, faculty engagement, and campus experience, Cornell stands alone.

In Cornell’s highly flexible program, you’ll choose a specific area of study and build your own dissertation committee. Our program faculty are genuinely interested and invested in your intellectual development. In this small and highly selective program, you will get to know the faculty and your peers well.

The SC Johnson Graduate School of Management is home to leading research centers and a high-impact academic journal; these open you up to unique learning and mentorship opportunities.

Business Simulation Lab

The Debra Paget and Jeffrey Berg Business Simulation Lab facilitates in-person and online behavioral research related to decision-making and problem-solving.

Discover More About BSL

Our Three-Pronged Approach to a PhD in Management

The Johnson School’s doctoral degree in management combines the best of theory and practice, building on a three-pronged foundation:

Hands-on Experience

Develop your research and analytical skills. You’ll work with classmates to examine existing literature and theories for class deliverables, which will often include your own original research.

Customizable Curriculum

Design your own academic pathway. You’ll choose one of six primary areas of study and create your own dissertation committee.

University-Wide Coursework

Draw on the expertise from across Cornell. You’ll get to select graduate-level courses from schools and colleges devoted to law , hospitality , engineering , labor relations , and other fields.

At a Glance: Cornell’s Fully Funded PhD in Management

The fully residential, fully funded PhD in Management program includes a tuition waiver and a stipend for living expenses. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

Degree Awarded

PhD in Management

Program Location

Ithaca, NY, with options in New York City

Program Format

Foundational coursework, original research, and six potential areas of study

Hear from Our Community

“PhD is a marathon, not a sprint, and collaborating with great people is paramount. At Cornell, I’ve found a place where amazing people come together, supporting my research and personal growth. Choosing Cornell means joining a community that knows how important it is to work with exceptional people to excel in the program.” – Elina Hur PhD ’23

Customize Your Path: Our Areas of Study

When you apply to the Johnson School’s PhD in Management, you will select a primary area of study. Choosing a concentration allows you to gain specialized skills and knowledge while growing a portfolio of original research.

Examine the role of accounting information in firms and financial markets. PhD-level research at Cornell explores topics such as how firms report information to investors, how accounting information is used to manage firms, and the nature of auditing.

Strategy & Business Economics

Use modern tools and methodologies to gain a better understanding of the world. PhD students in this area explore many aspects of economics including industrial, behavioral, labor, and organizational.

Dive deep into the financial structure and issues of organizations. Your research might look at how conflicts of interest affect corporate policy, how investor psychology affects asset pricing, or how to detect price bubbles.

Learn how theories from operations research, economics, psychology, and sociology intersect to inform corporate and consumer decisions. Your PhD studies will explore both quantitative and behavioral perspectives of marketing.

Management & Organizations

Prepare for a research-focused career in academia or industry. This versatile concentration develops skilled, innovative, analytical researchers through a broad curriculum and close faculty collaboration.

Operations, Technology, & Information Management

Develop the technical skills and behavioral analysis knowledge you need to address high-impact managerial decisions. This focus area also offers an option to complete coursework at Cornell Tech in New York City.

Idea Generation to Publication: A Career in Teaching and Research

The majority of our PhD in Management students pursue careers in academia. After graduation, many land tenure-track teaching positions at top-tier business schools and continue to advance knowledge through original research. Johnson School PhD students often field multiple offers and see starting salaries range from $150,000 to $250,000.

Finding Your Place at Cornell: Meet Our Current PhDs

Students from around the United States and across the globe arrive at the Johnson School to earn their PhD in Management—and their diverse research interests, educational backgrounds, and professional experiences make for a vibrant, enriching learning environment.

MEET CURRENT PHD STUDENTS

Research and Placements: Making an Impact in the Management Field

After earning the PhD in Management, our alumni go on to teach and inspire future leaders at top-tier institutions. Not only do they teach and conduct research alongside some of the most brilliant minds in business, but they also advance the field through publishing in leading journals and presenting their work at industry conferences.

Recent PhD in Management Placements

• Piyush Anand, PhD ’21, assistant professor of marketing, Jones Graduate School of Business, Rice University
• Guarav Kankanhalli, PhD ’20, assistant professor, Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business, University of Pittsburgh
• Eunjee Kim, PhD ’21, assistant professor, Mays Business School, Texas A&M University
• Sarah Lim, PhD ’21, assistant professor, Gies College of Business, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• Xuege Lu, PhD ’22, assistant professor, Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota
• Subrina Shen, PhD ’21, assistant professor, McCombs School of Business, University of Texas at Austin

Recent Research Publications

• “ Do Real Estate Values Boost Corporate Borrowing? Evidence from Contract-Level Data ” in the Journal of Financial Economics (2022) — Gaurav Kankanhalli, PhD ’20, with Murillo Campello, Robert A. Connolly, and Eva Steiner
• “ Converging Tides Lift All Boats: Consensus in Evaluation Criteria Boosts Investments in Firms in Nascent Technology Sectors ” in Organization Science (2021) — Xirong (Subrina) Shen, PhD ’21, with Huisi (Jessica) Li, PhD ’20, and Pamela S. Tolbert 
• “ Initial and Longer-Term Change in Unit-Level Turnover Following Leader Succession: Contingent Effects of Outgoing and Incoming Leader Characteristics ” in Organization Science (2020)— Huisi (Jessica) Li, PhD ’20, with John Hausknecht and Lisa Dragoni

“ Does Regulatory Jurisdiction Affect the Quality of Investment-Adviser Regulation? ” in American Economic Review (2019) — Alan Kwan, PhD ’17, with Ben Charoenwong and Tarik Umar

Our Faculty: Accomplished Researchers, Dedicated Teachers

When you join the PhD in Management program at the Johnson School, you’ll be part of a learning community comprising more than 100 accomplished academics and thought leaders. 

Not only will you take courses with renowned professors from across the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business, but you also will have the opportunity to build your own faculty committee—a group that will become instrumental as you select your dissertation topic and embark on your original research.

Faculty Spotlight: Learn from Leading Thought Leaders

Throughout the PhD program—from foundational coursework to your dissertation—you’ll work closely with dedicated teacher-scholars like these:

Kristina Rennekamp

Dr. Rennekamp’s research focuses on financial accounting from a behavioral perspective. She’s widely published, with work appearing in leading academic journals such as The Accounting Review , Contemporary Accounting Research , and The Journal of Financial Reporting .

Karan Girotra

Dr. Girotra studies the digital transformation of companies, whether it’s looking at emerging tools and practices or exploring new business models. He’s frequently interviewed in an array of mainstream business media outlets, including Bloomberg BusinessWeek , Fortune , and Forbes .

Kaitlin Woolley

Dr. Woolley studies the psychological processes behind consumer motivation. She’s an award-winning educator and researcher with work published in academic journals and national media outlets including the Journal of Consumer Research , Journal of Marketing Research , and The Wall Street Journal .

EXPLORE JOHNSON SCHOOL FACULTY

What You’ll Learn: Curriculum Overview

As you pursue your PhD in business management, you’ll begin with a set of foundation courses and progress into advanced coursework in your area of interest. Through it all, your faculty committee will help make sure you’re on the right track.

Foundational Management Coursework

Early in your doctoral program, you will complete foundational coursework in management and other fields. Many of these will focus on the research process and prepare you for your dissertation.

Advanced Coursework in Your Concentration Area

As you progress in the PhD in Management program, you’ll take electives and advanced courses that align with your research area of interest; these classes can be in the Johnson School and across Cornell.

Your Dissertation: Creating Original Research

During the final part of the program, you begin work on your dissertation—the culmination of your original research. You choose the topic of research in conjunction with your committee.

VIEW PROGRAM SPECIFICS

Beyond Business: Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration and Dialogue

Tap into the experience and expertise of faculty members from across Cornell University.

Management is a broad science. Business leaders serve in a variety of roles in industries of all kinds: healthcare, consumer goods, agriculture, biotechnology, media, and consulting to name just a few. At Cornell, you can enrich your education and expand your research opportunities by taking courses and finding mentors beyond the college of business.

Explore fields like computer science, psychology, sociology, communication, engineering, and data science—and then connect the dots back to your management research.

Interact with peers and professors from other disciplines by participating in student organizations and special interest groups or by attending public lectures, workshops, and networking events.

Admissions Overview: How to Apply to the Management PhD Program

The ideal candidate for the Johnson School’s doctorate degree in management will have a strong record of academic excellence, a solid understanding of the research process, and an entrepreneurial approach to problem-solving. An MBA or master’s degree is not a requirement for admission. 

Our admissions page offers more details about program prerequisites, selection criteria, requirements, deadline information, and a checklist of materials you need to submit with your application.

Connect With Cornell Admissions

The Johnson School admissions team is available to answer your questions about the program and the application process. Stop in or reach out by phone or email today.

253-D Sage Hall Johnson Graduate School of Management Cornell University Ithaca, NY 14853-6201

Phone: 607-255-5340 Email: Graduate Research Programs Office

The Cornell Campus: Where You Will Learn, Grow, and Thrive

Learn, grow, and thrive on one of the most beautiful college campuses in the United States. As a PhD student, you’ll spend a lot of time in Sage Hall, a Gothic-style building dating back to 1875. You’ll find more high-tech learning spaces just off campus at the Breazzano Family Center for Business Education. You’ll also have access to the innovative campus of Cornell Tech in New York City—particularly relevant to students focused on technology and information management. 

Attending Cornell also means you’ll call Ithaca, NY, home for about five years. Our eclectic downtown is full of eateries, shops, activities, and all of the amenities you’d need for everyday life. When you’re not in class or studying, you can explore all that the Finger Lakes region has to offer.

PhD in Management FAQ: What You Need to Know

Before you apply to a research-focused graduate program, you’re likely to want to do some deep research of your own. For instance, how does a fully funded PhD in Management work? What’s the typical completion time?

We have a robust Frequently Asked Questions section to help you learn more about our program, the admissions process, and dissertation requirements. For our international applicants, you’ll also find specific details about earning your PhD in Management.

May I speak to someone about my interest in the program and visit?

You are welcome to reach out to any professor with whom you see a good research fit. Our website also has a wealth of information about the program.

Is an interview part of the process?

We offer interviews only to a few applicants after their first screening.

May I talk to a professor or advisor?

You are welcome to contact any professor with whom you see a research match. Faculty are more likely to respond to specific research queries.

I have questions; may I write to this program email address?

Yes. Our response time will vary. We are not able to answer detailed questions that are better assessed by faculty during the application process.

May I schedule a campus tour?

Admissions does not offer campus tours for PhD program applicants. However, you may arrange an appointment with a faculty member.

Fraud alert – beware of third-party post-doc scams.

Cornell University recently has been made aware of fraudulent activity targeting overseas students and researchers, including at least one third party website falsely stating that it is offering a postdoctoral or visiting scholar program in association with Cornell. These scams, which may seek to obtain money and/or personal details from interested applicants, are fraudulent. 

Cornell wishes to warn the public about these fraudulent activities being perpetrated purportedly in the name of Cornell, and/or its officials. Please be advised that: 

• Cornell does not, nor has it, worked in collaboration with third-party companies or organizations to offer postdoctoral or research certificate programs.
• Third parties do not collect tuition or fees on behalf of Cornell.
• Cornell does not work with or endorse such organizations including, but not limited to, Shanghai Lufei Education Technology Co., Ltd. (Chinese name: 上海璐斐教育科技有限公司) and Shenzhen Guoyan Era Education Technology Co., Ltd. (Chinese name: 深圳市国研时代教育科技有限公司).

Cornell’s postdoctoral positions are listed on the Academic Career Opportunities website and postdoctoral fellowship programs are available for viewing. If you suspect a third party of falsely advertising a Cornell program, please notify [email protected]. Victims of such scams may also report them to their local law enforcement authorities for appropriate action.

Start the Application Process Today

Ready to apply to our highly selective, fully funded PhD in Management? We look forward to learning more about you and your research goals. Start the application process today at the Cornell Graduate Admissions website. [You’ll first need to register for an account or log in to an existing one.]

• Best Online Doctorate In Organizational Leadership

Best Online Doctorate In Organizational Leadership Of 2024

Updated: Mar 5, 2024, 3:11pm

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

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

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

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

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

• 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

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

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

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Outcomes :

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability :

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

Student Experience :

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

Credibility :

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

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

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Programs

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

Graduate Tuition

$890/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

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

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

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

$753/credit

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

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

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

$1,115/credit

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

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

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

$928/credit

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

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

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

$715/credit

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

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

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

$932/credit

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

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

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

$696/credit (in-state)

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

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

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

$748/credit (in-state)

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

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

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

$976/credit

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

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

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

$785/credit

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

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

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

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

How do you learn best?

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

What are your scheduling needs?

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

What’s your budget?

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

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

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

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

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

Consider Your Future Goals

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

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

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

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

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

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

Should I get a doctorate in organizational leadership?

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

What is an Ed.D. in organizational leadership?

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

Is organizational leadership a real degree?

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

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

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

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

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

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

50 Best Online PhD in Leadership Programs [2024 Doctorate Guide]

Explore PhD in Leadership Programs for 2024. No GRE. Online PhD, DBA, and EdD programs offered online.

If you are ready to attain a higher leadership role, then the right degree can help you grow out of your current position.

Leadership degrees are in high demand, as they help students to move into executive project management, team leadership, business administration, and healthcare administration.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is often seen as the most prestigious degree in organizational leadership, but every path at the graduate level can lead students to a rewarding career in upper management and executive leadership positions.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Leadership (or Doctorate)

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

1. Abilene Christian University

Established in 1906, Abilene Christian College is a Christian university that started with a class size of just 25 students. Today, the school has 5,200 students per year and hosts a virtual campus with top-notch programs.

The online school of educational leadership at Abilene is an entirely virtual degree program. Students in the online doctorate program take courses in resource development, organizational assessment, collaboration, organizational culture, and personal development. tudents can work full-time and enjoy a completely online doctorate program that increases the core competencies in leadership. While the school does have faith-based programs, you can earn your leadership doctorate in two years and head into a career with engaging new skills with their accelerated programs.

Doctorate Degree Programs

• Online EdD Organizational Leadership

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

2. Andrews University

Founded in 1974, Andrews University was once Battle Creek College. The school was started by Seventh Day Adventists, and it was the church’s flagship school. It’s also the second-largest Christian school program in the world. Students can take classes on the campus in Southwest Michigan, or they can attend leadership courses in an entirely online platform.

The School of Graduate Studies hosts a rigorous Ph.D. program in leadership that is entirely available online. Students are able to complete 90 credit hours. The online doctorate program is delivered at a custom pace, but you can finish this degree in as little as two years. The courses include topics in leadership framework.

Full-time students are typically using leadership degrees for healthcare administration, education, military, government agencies, pastoring, and business roles.

• Online Doctor of Leadership

Andrews  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

3. Antioch University

In 1852, Antioch University was established thanks to an educator and dreamer named Horace Mann. The university had campuses across the US, including in locations like Yellow Springs, Ohio and Keene, New Hampshire. Today, Antioch has an amazing Ph.D. program in leadership and change. This program, titled Engaging in the Art and Science of Leading Positive Change, was created for adults who are already working.

While the program is mostly online, students will need to take part in on-campus residencies regularly over the course of the three-year degree program. The programs are designed to help those who already work, so the degree can still be accomplished if you work full-time. The virtual campus has been praised for its interactive design and professors’ communication.

• Online Ph.D. in Leadership and Change

Antioch  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

4. Arizona State University

ASU, or Arizona State University, was founded in 1885 and has a long-standing history for long-distance degree programs. Noted as a public metropolitan research facility, they have multiple campuses in the Phoenix area. There are over 75,000 students enrolled at ASU, and their Online Doctor of Leadership and Innovative Education program helps students who already work in education.

The ASU online doctorate in leadership program is geared toward educational careers. Students can learn completely online or take hybrid courses, but students are encouraged to enroll from all over the world due to the successfulness of their online program. The entire online doctorate requires 90 credit hours, taking about 7 ½ weeks to complete each course.

• Online EdD in Leadership and Innovation

ASU  has been continuously accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1931.

5. Baylor University

You can complete an EdD in Learning and Organizational Change at Baylor University in just four years. The program is designed for students who want to go into administrative roles or lead senior teams in business organizations. There are 61 credit hours required to graduate, and students must spend some face-to-face time through the virtual classroom with teachers and students.

• Online EdD in Learning and Organizational Change

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

6. Cabrini University

The online Ph.D. in Organizational Development at Cabrini University is an entirely online doctorate. While there is a campus in Radnor, Pennsylvania, students can take all of their coursework through the institution’s virtual classroom. The online doctorate program has both theoretical and research-based courses.

• Online EdD in Educational Leadership

Cabrini  is fully accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

7. Capella University

In 1993, Capella University was started with the idea of providing more distance learning options for students across the Midwest. While their headquarters is in Minneapolis, Minnesota, most of their programs have online courses. There are 142 undergraduate and graduate degrees available. There are 1,600 course options online, including their Doctor of Philosophy in Business Management with a specialty in Leadership.

Their program offers a hybrid format with classes that are mostly online. However, students must take three on-campus resident programs. There are 11 core programs and five specializations to choose from. Students may have to go to campus for certain exams and for their dissertation, but the programs are still designed for full-time workers who want to move up in educational leadership.

• Online DBA – Leadership
• Online DHA in Health Care Leadership
• Online DHS – Leadership and Organizational Management
• Online EdD in Educational Leadership and Management
• Online Ph.D. in Business Management – Leadership
• Online Ph.D. in Education – Leadership for Higher Education
• Online Ph.D. in Education – Leadership in Educational Administration
• Online Ph.D. in Education – Special Education Leadership

Capella  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

8. City University of Seattle

Often called CityU, the City University of Seattle started in 1973. The private college has grown considerably, but it remains committed to adult learners. The college has a primary campus located in Seattle, but there are 50,000 students enrolled in programs from all over the world.

The Doctor of Education in Leadership program offers students 90 credit hours to learn about organizational leadership, specialized studies in entrepreneurship, and strategic innovation and decision making.

Students can take courses for nonprofit leadership and healthcare administration as well. With many specializations, the program is designed to help students expand their concentration and move into senior leadership within their fields. There are 90 credit hours total in the online doctorate program, which can be completed in less than three years. You can also take more time to complete the courses, particularly if you still work full-time.

CityU  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

9. Colorado State University

One of the most historical colleges on this list, Colorado State University was founded in 1870 and offers curriculum completely online for multiple undergraduate and graduate degrees. While the private school started off small, the latest student enrollment numbers boast over 34,000 students. Their online Ph.D. program offers students the chance to earn an Education and Human Resources Studies degree.

The online doctorate program was designed to help students who are already working full-time and want to steer their career path toward senior leadership. Students learn about how to research programs, diversity culture, and organizational leadership practices.

The online doctorate program has 90 credit hours and can be completed in less than 5 years. There are a variety of formats you can use in their virtual classroom, including video, audio, texts, and discussion forums.

• Online Ph.D. in Education and Human Resource Studies – Higher Education Leadership

CSU  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

10. Colorado Technical University

Colorado Technical University started in 1965 and provided long-distance learning opportunities for military families and students. Vocational and technical careers were available at first, but the programs have expanded over the years. The courses are all delivered online today, but some classes are still available at their campus located in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Colorado Technical University offers a Doctor of Management Program in Executive Leadership. In this online doctorate program, students have the opportunity to learn about different research methods, management philosophies, non-profit leadership, global leadership, and project management.

The courses are designed to be flexible and require 90 credit hours to complete. Students also have to go to an in-person symposium and complete a dissertation.

• Online Doctor of Management – Executive Leadership
• Online Doctor of Management – Global Leadership
• Online Doctor of Management – Healthcare Management and Leadership
• Online Doctor of Management – Non-Profit Leadership

CTU  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

11. Concordia University – Chicago

Established in 1864, Concordia University Chicago was originally a seminary school founded by Saxon-German immigrants. Parochial teachers originally enrolled in courses at the campus in River Forest, Illinois, and now, the university has expanded to include over 100 courses of study and caters to 5,000 students per year. The Doctoral Specialization in Organizational Leadership helps full-time teachers move up in their roles.

The online doctorate program focuses on researching and developing methodologies that support coaching, group leadership, organizational leadership, and government agency principles. Students must complete 67 credit hours and a dissertation. The courses are offered completely online, including comprehensive exams.

• Online EdD in Sports Leadership
• Online EdD/Ph.D. in Leadership – Curriculum and Instruction
• Online EdD/Ph.D. in Leadership – Early Childhood Education
• Online EdD/Ph.D. in Leadership – Education Technology
• Online EdD/Ph.D. in Leadership – Educational Leadership
• Online EdD/Ph.D. in Leadership – Higher Education
• Online EdD/Ph.D. in Leadership – Organizational Leadership
• Online EdD/Ph.D. in Leadership – Reading, Language and Literacy
• Online EdD/Ph.D. in Leadership – Special Education
• Online EdD/Ph.D. in Leadership – Teacher Leadership
• Online Ph.D. in Leadership – Gerontology
• Online Ph.D. in Leadership – Health & Human Performance

Concordia University – Chicago  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

12. Cornerstone University

Located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Cornerstone University is a historical college that has an intense online EdD program in organizational leadership and development. Students take most of the coursework online, but there are also three-day residencies required to graduate.

• Online EdD in Organizational Leadership and Development

Cornerstone  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

13. Creighton University

Founded by the Society of Jesus, Creighton University was originally created in 1878. Their campus is located in Omaha, Nebraska, but courses can be taken entirely online. There are 10 different colleges that make up the school, and 8,400 students enroll at Creighton on a yearly basis. Many students are encouraged to become volunteers.

The online Doctorate Program in Education focuses on interdisciplinary leadership. Creighton University has multiple online programs, but their leadership program helps adult learners with courses in management, group leadership methodologies, and facilitation.

The program is faith-based, which means that there are also courses in human dignity, justice, and faith. Many graduates further their careers as school administrators, marketing leaders, business administrators, and teachers.

• Online EdD in Interdisciplinary Leadership

Creighton  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

14. Drexel University

Drexel University was started in 1891 as the Drexel Institute of Art, Science, and Industry. Founded by Anthony Drexel, the school was named after the philanthropist and early investor who wanted an art and science school in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Since its early beginnings, the school has grown, adding more distance learning and virtual programs in the last few decades. There are currently over 26,000 students enrolled at Drexel.

Students who attend Drexel can take courses in the online doctorate program in Educational Leadership and Management (EdD). The degree has a contemporary philosophy on leadership and organizations.

The online doctorate program can be taken part-time or full-time, but all courses are available in the online format. Students typically complete the program in three to five years. Courses include peer support and collaboration studies.

Drexel  is accredited by the Midd le States Commission on Higher Education.

15. East Tennessee State University

East Tennessee State University is a public university that is located in East Johnson, Tennessee. It also has campuses in Kingsport and Elizabethton and is the fourth-largest university in Tennessee.

The university’s origins go back to 1911 when it was first established as a school to educate teachers. It has undergone various changes since and is now enrolls around 14,000 students.

• EdD in Educational Leadership

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

16. Eastern University

In 1925, Eastern University was started as a Christian faith-based institution that provided seminary courses through the American Baptist Church. The school has expanded since that time, but the headquarters remains in St. Davids, Pennsylvania, with a total enrollment of 4,300 students each year. The school continues their affiliation with the church, but it has expanded their online programs considerably.

Eastern University now offers a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership, which is a blended format that caters to professional teachers who want to advance their careers.

The interdisciplinary degree offers executive leadership courses and helps students move into senior leadership positions within different specializations. Students must complete residencies on campus each year, including lectures, classes, and networking meetups.

• Online DMin in Contextual Leadership
• Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership

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

17. Fielding Graduate University

The Fielding Graduate University first started in 1974. The school was originally called the Field Graduate Institute and was centrally located in Santa Barbara, California. The school offered distance learning programs through nonprofit programs. The school offers master’s, doctoral, and professional certificate programs. The School of Leadership Studies and School of Psychology also offers certificate programs in the same field.

The online doctorate degree is mainly for full-time workers who want a distance learning program. Students can enroll in the Doctor of Education in Leadership for Change at Fielding University. It was designed to help students who want to move into human services systems as leaders.

The program has a blended format with both online and physical courses. Students can take courses internationally through Fielding Graduate University as well, making it a good program for military students.

• Online EdD in Leadership for Change

Fielding  is a nonprofit organization accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

18. Franklin University

The online EdD program in organizational leadership at Franklin University is available online through the institution’s virtual classroom. Students take courses online or may attend classes on campus in Columbus, Ohio. The coursework can be completed in less than five years, and students will have to complete a dissertation in a specific field of study related to organizational leadership to graduate.

• Online DPS in Instructional Design Leadership
• Online EdD in Organizational Leadership

Franklin  is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

19. Grand Canyon University

The Arizona Southern Baptist Convention established Grand Canyon University as a way for local students to go to a faith-based institution despite the distance. The school was founded in 1949, but the campus was moved in 1951 to Phoenix, Arizona. Today, there are several campuses, and students can take over 200 degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. The school has an extensive virtual classroom.

The Doctor of Education (EdD) online doctorate program offers a degree in Organizational Development at GCU. Students can take the courses fully online, or they can take on-campus courses. The programs include sustainable organization skills, ethical leadership, stewardship, corporate responsibility, and behavioral health. There are 60 credit hours required to complete the degree.

• Online DNP – Educational Leadership
• Online EdD in Organizational Leadership – Behavioral Health
• Online EdD in Organizational Leadership – Christian Ministry
• Online EdD in Organizational Leadership – Health Care Administration
• Online EdD in Organizational Leadership – Higher Education Leadership
• Online EdD in Organizational Leadership – K-12 Leadership
• Online EdD in Organizational Leadership – Organizational Development
• Online EdD in Organizational Leadership – Special Education

GCU  is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

20. Gwynedd Mercy University

Founded in 1948, the school was started by the Sisters of Mercy of Merion in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Gwynedd Mercy University is a Catholic college that focuses on undergraduate and graduate degrees in technical fields. With 30 different undergraduate majors and a variety of graduate programs, the programs are mostly held online.

The Executive EdD Program offers an online Doctorate in Education Leadership. The online degree program requires 54 credit hours to complete, and students are able to finish the doctorate within three years. The courses are quite technical and focus on programming at educational policy organizations, schools, universities, and administration within school districts. Each student can also pick a specialization.

• Online Accelerated Executive Doctorate in Educational Leadership

GMercyU  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

21. Indiana Institute of Technology

Established in 1930, Indiana Technical College was originally called the Indiana Institute of Technology. The two-year technical school was started to provide career-oriented degrees. However, the school changed in 1948 and became a non-profit university that provided degrees in education.

There are five colleges at the school that offer hundreds of degree programs. Over 10,000 students enroll at Indiana Tech each year and largely complete their degrees online.

The Ph.D. Program in Global Leadership offers students courses in leadership practices, government administration, policy leadership, research, and diverse cultures. Students can complete the coursework within three years, but they will also need to complete a dissertation. Students from around the world can enroll in courses at Indiana Tech.

• Online Ph.D. in Global Leadership

Indiana Tech  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

22. Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University was founded in 1920, but it went by another name back then. First established as Marion Normal College, it became the Marion Normal Institute, and changed the name again in 1928 to the current name. It’s the largest postsecondary school in Indiana state, and the campus underwent a makeover recently to expand and include a new virtual program.

The Ph.D. program in Organizational Leadership offers a hybrid format where courses are taken online and on-campus. Students must connect weekly to the courses online. However, they are made for students who are attending courses and working full-time. The program can be completed in 40 months or less. Catholic and faith-based coursework is also included in the program.

IWU  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

23. Johnson University

Originally named the School of the Evangelists, Johnson University has a long-standing history in the United States. Originally founded in 1893, the school changed its name but never their headquarters. The school still remains in Kimberton Heights, Tennessee, despite starting several online programs. Students can take associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs online.

Johnson University offers an online Ph.D. Program in Leadership Studies and Organizational Leadership. The degree takes four years to complete on average, and the first year requires 18 hours of courses within the Leadership Core Curriculum. In the second year, students have to take 15 credit hours within the program, and by year three, students can take all elective credit hours and write their final dissertation.

• Online Ph.D. in Leadership Studies

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

24. Lamar University

Lamar University was started in 1923 as a research-oriented school that offered special doctoral programs. The campus is located in Beaumont, Texas, and enrollment has grown to over 15,000 students. With hundreds of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, Lamar University is an international institution that enrolls students from around the world.

The school’s Center for Doctoral Studies offers a Doctorate in Educational Leadership with different specializations. Students can take the Global Educational Leadership coursework. Most of the programs are designed to be accelerated and taken completely online. Students typically enroll full-time in the online program, and they can take accelerated courses to finish the program earlier.

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

25. Liberty University

Liberty University was created as a Christian research college. Established in 1971, the school was the only Christian research college in Virginia. It was created by the church leader Jerry Falwell. It became a part of the Christian Academy Community, and it eventually became a more prominent school with over 90,000 students. The online school has the highest enrollment, and there are over 550 academic programs offered on the virtual campus.

The online Doctor of Business Administration offers a program with a leadership focus. Students can specialize in a variety of courses to enhance their field of study for different careers. Students may want to go into business leadership, professional management, human resources, or marketing. Some of the courses in the program include organizational design and structure, leading organizational change, and leadership theory.

• Online DBA in Leadership
• Online Doctor of Strategic Leadership
• Online EdD in Christian Leadership – Ministry Leadership

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

26. National University

Since its founding in 1971, National University has been dedicated to providing flexible, quality education that can help busy adults meet their educational and career goals. Headquartered in San Diego, California, NU is a network of nonprofit educational institutions with a wide variety of degree programs that can be completed online or on campus at several locations in CA.

NU offers a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership. The program’s virtual classrooms offer comprehensive ways for students to collaborate and learn. The curriculum covers topics such as cultural diversity, problem analysis, administration leadership, and conflict mediation. It requires the completion of 20 courses for a total of 60 credit hours and typically be finished in 38 months.

• Online DBA in Homeland Security: Leadership and Policy
• Online DBA in Organizational Leadership
• Online DNP in Executive Leadership
• Online Ph.D. in Educational Leadership

National University  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

27. North Carolina A&T State University

Established in 1891, North Carolina A&T is also known as the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Located in Greensboro, NC, the school enrolls over 12,000 students each year in a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. They are the largest historically black college in the country.

The Doctor of Philosophy Program in Leadership Studies (LEST) provides full-time educators with the ability to move into senior leadership positions within business administration, public administration, and healthcare administration fields.

The program includes over 60 credit hours and offers an interdisciplinary focus with research, behavioral studies, and social sciences. There are many specializations that you can take within the program, and it partners well with other degree programs in engineering, history, healthcare, education, religious studies, and sociology.

• Online PhD in Leadership Studies

NC A&T  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

28. Northeastern University

Founded in Boston in 1898, Northeastern University was first established as the Evening Institute for Younger Men. It was an interdisciplinary school that partnered with the local YMCA. However, the school has now cut ties with the organization and became Northeastern University in 1948. The school has over 25,000 students each year.

Northeastern is well-known for its Doctor of Education program that offers a specialization in Situated Leadership. The focus helps students with challenges in educational leadership. The theory and research behind this program leads to better problem-solving and helps students who want to move up within public administration and educational roles.

• Online EdD in Curriculum, Teaching, Learning and Leadership
• Online EdD in Organizational Leadership Studies

Northeastern  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

29. Nova Southeastern University

Established in 1864, Nova Southeastern University began with only 17 students. The campus was located in Davie, Florida, which allowed distance learning for students in Fort Lauderdale and Miami. The school now offers over 150 fields of study, and enrollment has grown to over 22,000. The school’s Doctoral Program in Organizational Leadership can be taken completely online.

The courses are designed around concentrations for real-life organizations. Students can learn about public administration, healthcare administration, research, business administration, and global leadership. The program requires over 60 credit hours and can be completed in three years. In addition, students have to write a dissertation.

• Online EdD in Higher Education Leadership

NSU  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

30. Pepperdine University

With a location in Los Angeles, California, Pepperdine University was founded in 1937 as a research university by the Church of Christ. Since its history started within the Great Depression, the school has great pride in its arts and education programs. Most courses are taught on the main campus, but the school also has hundreds of online courses.

Pepperdine University offers the Graduate School of Education and Psychology as the main online school for the Doctor of Education in Leadership. The courses are hybrid and require students to go to the campus for certain exams and projects. With a lot of research, students are able to complete this degree within 3.5-4 years.

• Online EdD in Educational Leadership, Administration, and Policy
• Online PhD in Global Leadership and Change

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

31. Piedmont International University

Founded in 1945, Piedmont International University is a private college with a graduate school. Classified as a bible college at first, Piedmont International University turned into a distance learning school and online university. The school has an online PhD program in leadership. The program is meant to be flexible for those who are currently working within education or public administration roles.

After earning the PhD, students go on to careers in healthcare administration, social services, education, and even business. There are a variety of specializations within the program. Students are required to take 60 credit hours and can finish the degree in 3 years. Since the degree is mostly research-oriented, students will need to write a dissertation to graduate.

• Online PhD in Leadership

Piedmont  is accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools and maintains membership in the American Association of Christian Colleges and Seminaries.

32. Regent University

Established in 1977, Regent University was founded as a private research school by the Christian Church. Originally named the Christian Broadcasting Network University, Pat Robertson founded the school. In 1990, the school’s name changed to Regent University. With its main campus in Virginia Beach, Virginia, the school also has other satellite locations.

The PhD in Organizational Leadership in Individualized Studies is offered through Regent University completely online. Regent University also noted that they were the first to offer the program online in 1995. The program still has a short residency. Students learn about research, public administration, organizational leadership, and applied theory practices.

• Online DMin – Christian Leadership & Renewal
• Online DMin – Ministry Leadership Coaching
• Online DSL – Healthcare Leadership
• Online EdD in Advanced Educational Leadership
• Online EdD in Christian Education Leadership
• Online EdD in Higher Education Leadership & Management
• Online EdD in K-12 School Leadership
• Online PhD in Education – Advanced Educational Leadership
• Online PhD in Education – Christian Education Leadership
• Online PhD in Education – Higher Education Leadership & Management
• Online PhD in Education – K-12 School Leadership
• Online PhD in Organizational Leadership

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

33. Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University was founded in 1889, but it was closed briefly and re-opened in 1959. The school was established thanks to the Holy Name Monastery. The Benedictine Monastery Saint Leo Abbey is near the campus. Saint Leo is one of the top Catholic schools in the country, #26 in the Best Colleges is Regional Universities South by U.S. News & World Report . They were also one of the first schools to offer distance learning options for full-time and military students.

The Doctor of Education in School Leadership at Saint Leo is offered through the university’s College of Education and Social Services. The online program can be taken away from campus completely. There is also an on-campus residency every July. Students must attend these seminars to graduate. Most graduates will go onto careers as organizational leaders in elementary and high schools.

• Online EdD in School Leadership

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

34. Saint Thomas University

Saint Thomas University, or STU, was founded in early 1961. This is a private university that was founded with the help of the Catholic Church. The curriculum includes over 25 different undergraduate studies as well as almost 30 graduate programs. In addition, their leadership degree program is one of five doctoral programs offered at STU. Their campus is located on Miami Beaches.

Saint Thomas has a variety of online learning options, and their courses have expanded recently thanks to a new virtual classroom. The school offers a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation. Each student can specialize in their own interests and write a dissertation based on their research. Students must take 60 credit hours to complete the program.

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

35. Saybrook University

Founded in 1971, this school was started by a group of psychologists. These doctors were leaders in their fields, and they founded the humanist psychological movement. Saybrook University offers residency programs for master, doctoral, and professional certification programs. The PhD in Managing Organizational Systems: Educational Leadership Specialization is a top program offered through their online school.

Students can learn how to lead at primary, secondary, and postsecondary levels. The curriculum helps students learn about different management practices. In addition, students learn about mediation, professional support, and ethical principles. Students may be required to complete residencies on campus at the beginning of each semester.

• Online PhD in Managing Organizational Systems – Leadership Development

Saybrook  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

36. Southeastern University

Southeastern University was founded by the Southeastern Bible Institute located in New Brockton, Alabama. The school was opened in 1935 as a liberal arts university founded by the Christian Foundation. Located in Lakeland, Florida, the main campus is one of many, as there are 80 other sites. Each campus is also located in Florida. There are 55 degree programs, ranging from baccalaureate to doctoral programs.

The PhD Program in Organizational Leadership is a hybrid degree program that includes both online and on-campus coursework. Students who are employed full-time can finish the program with 40 credit hours due to its accelerated program. Students must work on an active research project and present a dissertation to graduate.

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

37. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Chicago was founded as a unique institution in 1979. The school was for studying psychology specifically, and the school has remained dedicated to the research and methodologies of psychology ever since. The school now has campuses in Los Angeles, California and Grayslake, Illinois.

The PhD program in Organizational Leadership is a research degree program that can be taken entirely online. The program offers a three-year accelerated course to those who want to improve their leadership skills in administration. The program revolves around courses in ethics, organizational interventions, diversity, psychological theories, and interpersonal dynamics.

The  Chicago School  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

38. Trident University

Established just 20 years ago, Trident University started as a private college with coursework offered completely online. Students don’t have to come in for any residencies, as all coursework is completed through the virtual classroom.

The school offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, as well as certification programs. The main offices are located in Cypress, California. This research-based college offers courses to mostly military members and veterans. There are over 30,000 students yearly.

The PhD program in Educational Leadership can be taken online completely. Students in the program work on research projects and engage in leadership within the teaching administration field. These advanced consulting skills can come in handy in helping students collaborate with other faculty members and support research projects.

• Online PhD in Business Administration – Leadership
• Online PhD in Educational Leadership

Trident  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

39. University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas was founded in 1871 and also goes by the name of UA or U of A. The school started as a doctoral research institution with public land-grant status. Another nickname for this school is “the Hill.” The school campus overlooks the Ozark Mountains. Their campus is located in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The school has grown over the years and now has an enrollment of 28,000 students.

The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership offers students a chance to research and explore careers in administration, policy, and organizational leadership. The whole program is available online and allows students to take the course in just 42 credit hours.

U of A  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

40. University of Charleston

Established in 1888, UC, or the University of Charleston, began under the name Barboursville Seminary of the Southern Methodist Church. The school’s campus is located in Charleston, West Virginia. There are other campuses as well, located in Martinsburg and Beckley, Virginia. The school was ranked highly by  US News & World Report  as one of the best regional colleges in the south.

The college offers a Doctor of Executive Leadership (DEL) with online courses through the virtual classroom known as Moodle. The program has a cohort organization, and each cohort is designed for 12 to 15 students. There are 58 credit hours needed to graduate.

• Online Doctor of Executive Leadership

UC  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association.

41. University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign

You can earn an online EdD in education policy, organization, and leadership through the University of Illinois. The coursework can be completed within three years, and the programs are all available online. Students learn about different theories in organized leadership and education policy.

• Online EdD in Educational Administration and Leadership

University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

42. University of Massachusetts – Global

With over 25 different campuses in Washington and California, the University of Massachusetts Global has a state-of-art virtual platform and offers a variety of degree programs, including a rigorous Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Leadership program.

The program’s curriculum has courses in creativity and sustained innovation, collaborative relationships, diversity, strategic thinking, transformational leadership, and political intelligence. The program offers a hybrid degree program that accommodates students who work full-time.

While students don’t have to come to campus to take courses, some projects and a dissertation must be presented in person.

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

43. University of New England

Founded in 1831, the University of New England still has its historical campus in Biddeford, Maine. The school is also called UNE and has international campuses in Tangier and Morocco. There are over 70 undergraduate and graduate degree programs offered online, including The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (EdD).

UNE requires three cohorts to begin the program each year. The program starts in Spring, Summer, or Fall. Students can complete the program in three years and must write a dissertation. Students must also partake in action-oriented research and take on opportunities to collaborate with other students.

• Online EdD in Transformative Leadership

UNE  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

44. University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was started in 1798 under the North Carolina General Assembly. The school was chartered under the United States Constitution as the first public university. UNC at Chapel Hill was the only school to offer higher educational degrees in the 18th century. The school has a beautiful campus at Chapel Hill in North Carolina. The total enrollment has reached over 30,000 students.

It is considered an Ivy League school due to its history. The Executive Doctoral Program in Health Leadership is a hybrid format. The coursework is available online with some residencies required to graduate. The program was created for those who are already working in healthcare and want to advance to a senior leadership role. The minimum amount of credits required is 45 hours.

• Online Executive Doctoral in Health Leadership

UNC – Chapel Hill  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College.

45. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California (USC) was founded in 1880. It’s the oldest research institution in California in the private school circuit. The school opened to just a few students who paid just $15 for the program. There are now 27,000 students in the program. The campus is located at University Park in Los Angeles, California.

The online doctoral program in Organizational Change and Leadership offers opportunities to teachers and administrators who want to move up in government agencies, social services, non-profit organizations, healthcare administration, and other roles. The coursework is offered online, but students must participate in real-world experiences to complete the program.

• Online EdD in Organizational Change and Leadership

USC  has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) since 1949.

46. University of the Cumberlands

Founded in 1889, the University of the Cumberlands is located in Williamsburg Kentucky and was originally established by the Kentucky Baptist Convention. The school has a yearly enrollment of 7,000 students.

The PhD program in Leadership is designed to help students who want leadership positions in non-profit organizations, government agencies, and educational institutions. The program can be completed in under three years. Students may also take on additional courses for the Kentucky Rank 1 certification.

• Online Executive PhD in Leadership

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

47. Valdosta State University

Located in Valdosta, Georgia, this college offers an online PhD program in organizational leadership, requiring 55 credit hours to graduate. Coursework is taken completely online, and students learn about planning, organizational theory, administration policies, and interdisciplinary analysis.

• Online EdD in Leadership

VSU  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

48. Vanderbilt Peabody College

Founded in 1873, Vanderbilt has a sterling reputation for its academic excellence. The school has been building its leadership program online for over five years. The Department of Leadership, Policy, and Organizations at Vanderbilt offers a Doctor of Education curriculum in leadership and learning in organizations. Students typically complete the program in 36 months and must complete 54 credit hours to graduate.

• Online EdD in Leadership and Learning in Organizations

Vanderbilt  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

49. Walden University

In 1970, Walden University was established as a distance learning school with doctoral degree programs. Today, the school has over 57,000 students and boasts an extensive online school program. The PhD in Management with a Specialization in Leadership and Organizational Change offers students more flexibility. The program is 86 credit hours and can be completed in 4-8 years.

• Online EdD in Community College Leadership
• Online EdD in Higher Education Leadership and Management
• Online PhD in Education – Early Childhood Leadership and Advocacy
• Online PhD in Education – Educational Policy, Leadership, and Management
• Online PhD in Education – Higher Education Leadership and Policy
• Online PhD in Education – Higher Education Leadership, Management, and Policy

Walden  has been accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1990.

50. Wilmington University

Located in Philadelphia, Wilmington University offers a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Leadership, Learning, and Innovation. Intended to be an interdisciplinary degree, this doctoral program can be completed 100% online (or on campus, if preferred) and prepares students for leadership positions that drive organizational growth.

• Online DNP – Leadership
• Online EdD in Organizational Leadership, Learning, and Innovation

WilmU  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Online PhD Leadership Doctoral Programs

A variety of doctoral leadership concentrations are available online. Select the leadership concentration that most interests you:

• Business Management
• Educational Leadership
• Financial Management
• Healthcare Management
• Management Information Systems
• Non-Profit Leadership
• Organizational Leadership
• Public Administration
• Project Management

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that management positions will earn average salaries of over $109,760 per year, and the field is expected to grow by 9% over the next ten years.

Business Management Doctorate

A PhD in Business Management is one of the final stepping stones for anyone who is looking to reach the very heights of knowledge and business-savvy. Acquiring the highest level of educational degree in this field can help you access the necessary knowledge to handle the demands of senior leadership roles.

Such a program can help you stand out in a highly competitive crowd where an MBA is now commonplace. After completing a PhD in Business Administration, you will likely be looking at new job opportunities at the very top of the corporate world, either as an operational director or as a management consultant.

Educational Leadership Doctorate

A PhD in Educational Leadership is an achievement by itself. However, it is also a remarkable combination that includes the best of two seemingly opposed worlds. This degree can help you refine the advanced strategies needed to both teach in a traditional classroom setting and to effectively command and manage a research team in a tertiary education setting.

This is the kind of specialization that can help enable you to enact new strategies and changes in places as varied as a K-12 school, a military training facility, and even universities.

Financial Management Doctorate

Any PhD in a Business field should certainly be an important and fruitful investment. However, such an advanced degree in Financial Management can open unique doors in specialized companies. For example, large companies that devote themselves to insurance, asset management, and financial investment are likely to be full of proven talent.

To rise to Senior Management in such a company, you will most likely require a degree at the PhD level. Financial Management specialists often find opportunities as policymakers and consultants as well.

Healthcare Management Doctorate

Healthcare is a dynamic field, as well as one of the most rapidly growing ones in the country. Managing a healthcare institution requires a superb commitment to quality, as well as routine liaisons with a variety of professionals – often with contradicting desires and priorities.

At the Master’s level, a specialization in Healthcare Management can help enable you to handle large hospital institutions. A PhD program can help bring your knowledge pool to a level suited to direct research, design public policy, or act as a consultant for healthcare groups.

Management Information Systems Doctorate

A PhD in Management Information Systems builds on a solid STEM foundation to provide its students with the tools needed to become researchers and scholars in a technical field. This is an eminently practical degree that includes a deep focus on the organizational and management aspects required for technological experimentation.

For graduates, there is a range of highly coveted job opportunities in the private and public sectors alike, as well as teaching positions or as leaders of corporate training departments.

Non-Profit Leadership Doctorate

Non-profit leadership and non-profit management are remarkably flexible fields, as they combine many aspects of political science, public policy, law, and business administration. Pursue this at the PhD level can help you acquire a well-developed foundation in all these fields.

In addition, there is a strong emphasis on the development of research skills and policy-making strategies, which you’ll need to perform as a senior manager in a nation-wide non-profit organization.

Opportunities for employment are not limited to charitable organizations; as a consultant, there is also the possibility of working at for-profit companies who run community outreach programs.

Organizational Leadership Doctorate

PhD programs in Organizational Leadership online provide their graduates with a solid foundation on the theoretical aspects of leadership, which by themselves, involve extensive knowledge in behavioral psychology, marketing, and human resource theory. It also encompasses several modules that address the practical skills needed to manage a large group of people.

This is an advanced degree that requires a significant time and financial investment. However, it can be a powerful tool to develop niche skills and to gain a competitive edge in the job market. A traditional or online PhD in Organizational Leadership can help you pursue a career directing operational research initiatives, management analysts, and postsecondary institutions.

Public Administration Doctorate

Normal MBAs are not only becoming increasingly common, but they are very focused on the tactics and values prized by the private sector. A PhD in Public Administration, on the other hand, can help provide you with a different outlook and a series of much more specialized skills.

Public administration experts require a more thorough knowledge of the nuances of publicly funded and non-profit organizations. In addition, these programs also place a stronger emphasis on long-term planning strategies and on policy-making. Finally, they offer a good training ground to cultivate contacts among the country’s movers and shakers.

Online Project Management Doctorate

Project management is a fast-paced field with numerous job opportunities, which means that the talent pool is also investing in specializations and in higher education. At the PhD level, a degree in Project Management can help you pursue a senior position in many different industries.

These range from technological development to supply chain management and risk management. In addition, this may be an ideal degree for those who want to start a large-scale business process outsourcing or consultancy venture.

Online Doctorate in Leadership Programs

You can earn doctorate-level leadership degrees in the following programs:

• PhD in Leadership

DBA in Leadership

• EdD in Leadership

Graduate programs for leadership degrees offer the best chance for students to learn in the field of organizational leadership, policy analysis, intercultural behavior, worldview, and global leadership strategy. Graduates may go on to work in hospitals, schools, non-profit organizations, businesses, or government agencies.

PhD in Leadership Programs

The PhD program offers students the highest degree of scholarship with coursework that challenges them to think about specializations within organizational leadership. Many PhD programs require 30% or more course credits to graduate, and you have to prove a dissertation to show your research and in-depth knowledge of your specialization.

You can earn any of the following degrees:

• PhD in Non-Profit Management
• PhD in Special Education Leadership
• PhD in Education – Leadership, Policy and Change
• PhD in Education – Adult Education Leadership
• PhD in Education – Community College Leadership
• PhD in Education – K-12 Education Leadership

Students who earn a PhD will likely go on to work in education as a professor, or they may become consultants or human resource directors. There are many opportunities within the field for those who have a PhD, but typically, students will head into research rather than move into the field.

Opting for a PhD also means that you have completed the required coursework and achieved a higher GPA to get into the program. There are typically 60 or more credit hours required to complete a PhD leadership program. Students typically need at least a 3.0 GPA to qualify as a candidate for a PhD.

Some specializations include business administration, healthcare administration, education, human resources, mission leadership, entrepreneurial leadership, and higher education roles.

DBA in Leadership Programs

For those who want to enhance their business administration skills and advance to executive management roles, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) may be a good degree option. A DBA can help students learn about strategic planning, statistical approaches to business, financial accounting, supervision theory, and creative management.

The key to a DBA is your specialization. You may be thinking about entrepreneurship or perhaps you want to go into executive leadership. Your coursework will define how you approach a DBA and what career paths will be best suited for your major. A DBA typically requires 40-60 credit hours, and while it’s not as rigorous as a PhD, students in this specialization still conduct research and take on residencies to complete the program.

Students who want to earn a DBA program must earn their undergraduate degree in a related field, maintain a 3.0 GPA on average, and propose a dissertation based on their research. Graduates typically earn their DBAs faster than a PhD due to fewer credit hours and research needs.

EdD in Leadership Programs

The Doctor of Education, or EdD, offers students the chance to work in K-12 educational settings, as well as universities. It’s up to the student how far they take their specialization, but many students design their EdD programs around teaching and working with other students.

With specific learning theories, students often go on to become skilled teachers who have a strong background in higher education administration and educational psychology. Depending on your specialization, you can pursue one of these degrees:

• Doctor of Education – Educational Leadership
• Doctor of Education – Leadership in Higher Education
• Doctor of Education – Organizational Leadership
• Doctor of Education – Administrator Leadership for Teaching & Learning
• Doctor of Education – Reading and Literacy Leadership
• Doctor of Education – Teacher Leadership

The EdD program is usually the fastest of all doctoral leadership degrees. This is mainly because it typically doesn’t require as many credit hours. Students typically finish their degrees in less than three years after taking 40 to 45 credit hours. The coursework is designed to students to become advanced educators with skills in administration and diverse learning theories.

Students who want to advance their leadership abilities can research different specializations in higher education and complete a dissertation to graduate.

Most students who want an EdD already work in education as a teacher or administrator, but they may choose to focus on a new area to advance their careers. Some teachers choose to get an EdD in organizational leadership and school law or human resource management. The choice depends on the student and what’s desirable for their career path.

Leadership Curriculum for Doctoral Students

Interested in what types of courses you’re likely to take in your online PhD leadership program? Scan our course lists for your intended degree.

PhD or EdD in Education

The following courses provide a sampling of what you may expect to find in either an EdD or PhD in Education program:

• Educational Leadership & Change
• Creative Strategies for Educational Leaders
• Using and Integrating Learning Technologies
• Program Evaluation in Organizations
• Transformative Leadership
• Educational Research Design
• Quantitative Research Methods and Data Analysis
• Leadership Theory and Practice
• Learning In Organizations
• Organizational Theory and Behavior
• Responsible Leadership & Ethics
• Leading Diverse Organizations
• Public Policy and Administration
• Human Capital and Talent Management
• Psychological Perspectives on Learning
• Learning and Design in Context
• Designing for Learning in Communities

You’ve probably studied many of these same topics in your master’s program, but these courses are designed to go more in-depth.

The following courses are a sampling of some of the leadership curriculum that may be available in a DBA:

• Organizational Leadership: Theory and Practice
• Business Strategy and Innovation for Competitive Advantage
• Quantitative Business Data Analysis
• Change Management
• Sustainability
• Multicultural Management
• Advanced Business Research Methods
• Strategic Supply Chain Management
• Human Resource Development
• Organizational & Executive Coaching
• Quality Management and Productivity
• Strategic Thinking for Decision-Making
• Strategic Allocation of Financial Resources
• Leadership Theory
• Leading Organizational Change
• Organizational Design & Structure

Each of these classes is designed to give you real-world skills you can apply in your current and future positions.

Leadership Careers

As you can imagine, earning a Doctorate can help put you in high demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some job titles that you might be able to earn once you graduate include:

• Education Administrator: These degrees can pay as much as $97,500 per year, and they have a high projected growth rate of 8%.
• Executive Manager: Students who head into this career path may make over $100,000 per year on average. The expected growth rate is around 8%.
• Financial Manager : Graduates who go into this specialization work under CFOs and help with an organization’s financial health. Many students go on to work at a bank or another financial institution where they learn more about income, modeling financial projections, and creating financial reports. The average annual salary for this role is quite high at $134,180 or more. This job is expected to be more in demand, reaching up to an estimated 17% growth rate.
• Public Relations and Fundraising Manager: Those who work in PR or the non-profit sector may make over $118,430 on average each year. The expected rate of growth for this degree is 13%.
• Training and Development Manager : These are human resource positions that are expected to help find the company’s best talent and keep employees happy. Most professionals work in management, or they may seek out jobs in technology firms. The average salary for these jobs is $115,640. This job is expected to grow faster than the average, at 11% growth rate, in the next few years.

Leadership Salaries

You may also teach at the university-level with your terminal degree as you train others to enter your field of specialization. Depending on your position, you might also be earning $100,000 or more for your services.

Admissions for Leadership Degree Programs

Every institution has a unique approach to their on-campus or online organizational leadership degree programs. In some cases, students need only to provide their undergraduate coursework and show proof of their GPA, while others require a GRE and letters of recommendation.

Applications are typically on a rolling basis, and students should apply to at least three or four graduate programs, which gives you a better chance of getting into one that you truly like.

To get into these programs, students must already have a traditional or online master’s in organizational leadership, professional experience, and a minimum GPA. Check the school’s website or talk to their Admissions Department for more information.

University Accreditation

At this level of education, you probably know how important a school’s accreditation is. Here’s just a friendly reminder not to take it for granted. Always investigate the university you’re applying to and verify that they are currently accredited by a reputable body.

You can check a school’s accreditation easily by searching the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs . You’ll see information on each of the university or college’s campuses, schools, and even individual programs.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Having made it this far in your studies, you’re also probably no stranger to how expensive a valuable education can be. At this level, your best bet is to apply for grants from the universities themselves, sponsorship from professional organizations, and tuition reimbursement from your employer.

Licenses and Certificates

The doctoral curriculum in leadership can help prepare you for the following certifications and licenses:

• Six Sigma Master Black Belt
• Certified Analytics Professional
• Certified Business Process Leader
• Certified Scrum Master
• AMA Certificate in Leadership Development

Achieving any of these expert certificates/licenses can help show potential employers your level of expertise in your field.

Resources for Leadership Doctoral Students

If you’re serious about leadership and looking for more education opportunities while you’re earning your doctorate and even after, look into these conferences and journals.

• Global Leadership Summit
• Journal of Organizational Behavior
• Journal of Applied Christian Leadership
• Journal of Leadership & Organizational Studies
• Harvard Business Review

Filled with the latest scholarship leadership studies, attending a conference or reading the literature is sure to help you bolster your education and professional skills.

Leadership Professional Organizations

Finally, it never hurts to have friends, and some of the friends you’ll want in the Leadership world may be right here:

• National Society of Leadership and Success
• International Leadership Association
• American Leadership Development Association

Consider joining these groups for news and networking. If you get involved, you may even find yourself gaining an official post in the organization, which can prove to be another feather in your cap and attractive line on your resume.

Should I Get My Doctorate in Leadership?

Whether it’s a company or school, organizations need talented leaders who know how to organize a project and successfully complete it. Students with online PhD’s in Leadership often go on to incredibly dynamic roles in administration and higher education, where they can truly excel as leaders.

They may take on roles in which they are able to build teams and strategically plan projects, or they may want to take on a role in higher education working with other research students.

If you decide to get a doctorate in leadership, you may want to opt for a DBA or EdD as they are typically faster programs and easier to get into than a PhD program. This is mainly because a PhD program usually requires that you have multiple years of experience as a working professional, and there are more credit hours required.

Most students will also have to complete residency courses and attend on-campus meetings for hands-on classroom knowledge. It’s important to know what specialization you want to focus on, as it can help you decide on coursework and a career path for after you graduate.

What Can I Do with a Doctorate in Leadership?

There are endless fields to study with a doctorate in leadership. You may want to go into business, or perhaps you want to be an advanced educator at the professorial level. Earning a leadership degree is just the first step in working in a management role and moving into administration.

Most leadership degrees teach students about practical problems that face teachers in the classroom or how to work together with different teams at a business. Leaders must be organized and apply theories of policy and organization to keep everyone on task.

Some of the careers most popular for leadership degree graduates include:

• Executive management
• Postsecondary education administrator
• Human resources manager
• Financial manager
• Public relations manager
• Non-profit manager
• Marketing manager
• Project manager
• Training and development manager

As these jobs are expected to grow through the next ten years, it’s clear that students will likely have all the control when it comes to picking their specialization. They may choose to go into product development, finance, marketing, human resources, education, or healthcare administration, which makes it a diverse degree to earn for anyone who wants to pursue a potentially six-figure administration position.

Are Online Doctorate Degrees in Leadership Respected?

There is a common misconception that just because degrees are earned online that they won’t be considered “as good as” a degree earned on a physical campus. However, there’s usually no distinction between degrees earned at a traditional university or via an online program.

Students may earn the same doctoral degrees at an online institution as they would at a physical university in their hometowns.

The benefits of an online doctoral program outweigh the need for an Ivy League college, as you can typically earn a degree in less time, pay less for the degree, and learn everything you need to go onto become a successful education administer.

Can You Earn a PhD in Leadership Entirely Online?

There are many online programs that offer exclusively online PhD programs. The question is whether you get the same value as a physical on-campus course or a hybrid course that may require a few visits to campus.

The answer is that students have to decide what their best options are for attending classes. If you work full-time or live far away from campus, you may decide that the online program is the perfect blend of convenience and professional degree programs.

Some programs may also seem like they are entirely online, but they may have a residency program where you have to go to school part of the time to learn and get grades while working in the field.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate in Leadership?

Each program is different. Some schools want you to have comprehensive coursework that takes years to complete, while others know that you are working full-time and trying to move up quickly.

Typical doctoral leadership programs require at least a 40 credit hour completion, but many of the schools have changed to 60 credit hours. While you may be able to complete 40 credit hours in two to three years, you could be spending more time on your degree if you need 60 credit hours.

Most students who want a PhD must stay in school for four to five years.

How Much Does a Doctorate in Leadership Cost?

Your tuition is largely based on the classification and location of the school. You can expect a class to cost anywhere between $400 and $900. With higher costs, private universities typically charge more, but they may offer more aid to military veterans.

Students should expect to pay a minimum of $15,000 for a doctoral degree in leadership, but depending on the region and school accreditation, that number could go up to $50,000 or more. Students should also factor in the costs of books, computers, and a living stipend.

What’s the Difference Between a PhD and an EdD?

A Doctor of Philosophy degree in leadership is the highest degree that you can earn within the field. Students with a PhD in this field tend to move into the academic field, pursuing higher education administration roles or leading research projects about different applied leadership theories.

An EdD is a more practical application of the degree. Students are usually able to earn this degree much faster and typically have to take fewer credit hours than a PhD to graduate. While both degrees may require a dissertation, students with an EdD are expected to know about educational topics more than research. A growing number of Doctor of Education no dissertation programs are available.

This means that EdD candidates have in-depth knowledge of skills and techniques to keep students engaged in the classroom and apply different strategies for teaching material through the K-12 grades.

Candidates who plan on earning a PhD should think about their prerequisites as well. Most graduate schools require that PhD candidates apply early, maintain a 3.0 GPA, and have some working experience in the field.

What’s the Difference Between a PhD and a DBA?

While a PhD teaches students about research and focusing on a specialization, Doctor of Business Administration graduates go onto career paths in business and non-profit organizations. They may become financial account managers, project managers, or healthcare administrators.

Students who earn a professional doctorate can apply their skills and education to a specific role within a business. For example, students who earn a DBA may become human resources managers or public relations managers. This is why coursework mainly focuses on communication, business administration, marketing, project management, and financial accounting.

What’s the difference between an online PhD leadership degree and an organizational leadership Ph.D. online doctorate?

An online PhD in Leadership and an online PhD in Organizational Leadership are both advanced degrees focused on the study of leadership, but there can be some differences in their specific emphasis and scope.

Here’s a general comparison:

• PhD in Leadership : The online PhD leadership program typically focuses on leadership theories, practices, and principles across various contexts, including business, education, government, and non-profit organizations. It explores leadership at a broader level, examining individual, group, and societal dynamics.
• PhD in Organizational Leadership : This program specifically concentrates on leadership within the context of organizations. It delves deeper into topics such as organizational behavior, change management, strategic leadership, team dynamics, and the application of leadership theories within the organizational setting.

Getting Your Doctorate in Leadership Online

When you’re ready to apply to a doctoral leadership program, here’s what you’ll want to do:

• Decide on which degree best suits your goals (PhD, EdD, or DBA)
• Determine your intended field of study and specialization
• Narrow down which online schools fit your criteria
• Apply and search for possible financial aid opportunities

Once you’re accepted, you’ll be on your way to earning a doctorate degree in your field!

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

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

A challenging, fulfilling, in-depth study of leadership

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

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

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

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

Course Details

Course listing, course name.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Degree Requirements

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

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

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

Program at a Glance

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

Program Learning Outcomes

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

Learning Objectives

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

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

Career Potential

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enrolling in a university is a big decision. That’s why our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and help you find the right program for you and your career goals.

To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.

Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.

To speak with our admissions team, call  (855) 355-6288  or request information, and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply  start your application today

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Finish Your Dissertation!

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

• Block transfer of credit from your previous institution
• Flexible monthly start dates
• Highly trained faculty providing feedback each week on your dissertation
• Strategic support and targeted resources to help you finish

Why Choose National University

• Four-Week Courses
• 190+ Degree Programs
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We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners. Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 240,000 alumni worldwide.

“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”

-Francisco R., Class of 2016

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• Doctorate Degree: What Is a Doctorate or Doctoral Degree?

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

The Key Grant Scholarship

Do you qualify for a needs-based scholarship? Learn more about the NU Key Grant Scholarship and other scholarship opportunities to unlock the door to your dreams!

The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

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

Program Disclosure

Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.

NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.

All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.

National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.

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Fully Funded PhD Programs in Education

Last updated July 15, 2022

Next in my series on  How To Fully Fund Your PhD , I provide a list below of universities that offer full funding to all students admitted to their PhD programs in education, international education, and educational leadership.

You can find several competitive, external fellowships in the ProFellow database for graduate and doctoral study, but it is useful to seek out PhD programs that offer full funding to all admitted students. When a doctoral program indicates that they provide full funding to their PhD students, in most cases this means they provide each admitted student full tuition and a stipend for living expenses for the four to the six-year duration of the student’s doctoral studies. Not all universities provide full funding to their doctoral students, which is why I recommend researching the financial aid offerings of all the potential PhD programs in your academic field, including small and lesser-known schools both in the U.S. and abroad.

Would you like to receive the full list of more than 1000+ fully funded programs in 60 disciplines? Download the FREE Directory of Fully Funded Graduate Programs and Full Funding Awards !

Universities offering Fully Funded PhD Programs in Education

Boston university, phd in educational studies.

(Boston, MA): Students admitted to the program will be fully funded for five years. Students work closely with BU Wheelock faculty as assistants in research and teaching.

Drexel University, PhD in Education & Educational Leadership

(Philadelphia, PA): Drexel University provides tuition remission, a living stipend, and health insurance subsidies through research and teaching assistantships.

Harvard University, PhD in Education

(Cambridge, MA): Harvard guarantees full financial support to PhD students—including tuition, health fees, and basic living expenses—for a minimum of five years. This multi-year funding package includes a combination of tuition grants, stipends, traineeships, teaching fellowships, research assistantships, and other academic appointments.

New York University, PhD in Education

(New York, NY): NYU Steinhardt awards all students (including international students) who are offered full-time admission to our Ph.D. programs a full funding and mentoring package.

Queen’s University, PhD in Education

(Ontario, Canada): Queen’s guarantees a minimum funding package currently valued at $18,000 [CAD] per year for four years for full-time doctoral students; in most cases, funding packages are higher (2011-12 Average: $25,800). In addition, Queen’s guarantees an international tuition award (or equivalent award) valued at $5,000 per year for four years for eligible international doctoral students.

University of California Irvine, PhD in Education

(Irvine, CA): Effective 2015, all incoming UC Irvine PhD in Education students, including California residents, non-residents, and international students, are offered five years of financial support. Funding includes an academic year stipend or salary, tuition and Student Services Fee waiver, and student health insurance.

University of California San Diego PhD in Education

All PhD students at UC San Diego are guaranteed funding for five years which is equivalent to the amount allocated for a 50% TA position. Funding packages can consist of instructional assistantships, Graduate Student Researcher (GSR) positions, university or outside fellowships, and/or stipends. A minimum financial support package of $20,000 for the first year.

University of Colorado, PhD in Education

(Boulder, CO): Admitted doctoral students received four-year funding packages including a stipend and a tuition grant equal to the cost of tuition (in-state and out-of-state).

University of Michigan, PhD in Education

(Ann Arbor, MI): Funding for students admitted into our doctoral programs includes tuition, health and dental benefits for students and their families, and a stipend for living expenses. Each of the programs also provides additional support for conference travel, research projects, and writing. 

Michigan State University PhD in Education

(East Lansing, MI): For most students in the doctoral program, international and domestic, the primary source of on-campus support is graduate assistantships. Assistantship stipends depend on the level of assistantship. In addition to the stipend, all graduate assistants receive a waiver of nine (9) credits of tuition per semester. They offer a variety of multi-year recruiting fellowships for incoming doctoral students.

University of Virginia, PhD in Education

(Charlottesville, VA): Financial support packages, which may include a combination of fellowship funding, bi-weekly pay, tuition remission/adjustment, and health insurance, are decided at various administrative levels.

Vanderbilt University, PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy

(Nashville, TN): All Peabody graduate (Ph.D.) students receive full tuition funding through a combination of University Tuition Scholarships and/or merit awards.

Stanford University Fully Funded PhD in Education

(Stanford, CA): Stanford GSE offers all admitted Ph.D. students a five-year funding guarantee that provides tuition aid, fellowship stipend, and assistantship salary, and covers the standard cost of attendance. Click here for more funding information.

University of Arkansas, PhD in Education Policy

(Fayetteville, AR): Graduate assistantships offer qualified applicants a full tuition waiver, a health insurance benefit plus an attractive annual stipend. Distinguished Doctoral Fellowships are combined with graduate assistantships to provide a package of stipends totaling $40,000 per year a tuition waiver, and further benefits.

University of Washington, PhD in Education

(Seattle, WA): The UW College of Education Faculty Council distributes a number of scholarships annually. The College of Education supports 120+ graduate students each academic year through teaching, research, and staff assistantship positions. Primary consideration is usually given to doctoral students.

Washington University in St. Louis, PhD in Education

(Saint Louis, MO): Ph.D. students receive full tuition remission, a health fee subsidy, and a monthly stipend to defray living expenses. The stipend is paid over 12 months (August-July), which includes summer funding. Washington University guarantees funding for Ph.D. students for up to six years as long as satisfactory progress is made in their program. Competitive fellowships are also available.

Concordia University, PhD in Education

(Quebec, Canada): Competitive funding packages in the form of awards, teaching, and research assistantships are offered at the time of admission to most students to allow them to focus on their research and studies. Students are automatically considered for all entrance graduate awards when they apply to Concordia, provided they meet eligibility criteria.

Indiana University, PhD in Education

They offer a variety of funding opportunities for Ph.D. students, including fellowships, research, and teaching assistantships which include a stipend, tuition remission, and student health insurance. All admitted graduate students who meet departmental deadlines are automatically considered for available fellowships.

University of Pennsylvania, PhD in Education Policy

(Philadelphia, PA ): All Ph.D. students are guaranteed a full scholarship for their first four years of study, as well as a stipend and student health insurance. Penn GSE is committed to making your graduate education affordable, and they offer generous scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.

University of Delaware, PhD in Education

(Newark, DE): Full-time Ph.D. in Education students receive financial support for four years through a variety of sources, including assistantships and tuition scholarships. Students with assistantships receive a 100% tuition scholarship and a 9-month stipend, plus health insurance. Merit-based supplemental funding is available.

For application tips on applying to a PhD program, see  How To Get Into a Fully Funded PhD Program: Contacting Potential PhD Advisors .

Find more graduate fellowships for doctoral study and dissertation research in ProFellow’s fellowships database .

© Victoria Johnson 2020, all rights reserved.

Related Posts:

• Fully Funded PhD Programs in School Psychology
• Fully Funded PhD Programs in Psychology
• Fully Funded PhD Programs in English
• Fully Funded PhD Programs in Mathematics
• Fully Funded MD-PhD Programs

Education Fellowships , Fully Funded PhD Programs , PhD in Education

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Peace corps perks: post-service graduate school fellowships, 62 thoughts on “fully funded phd programs in education”.

Thank you so much for compiling this useful information. Finally a resource that cuts out the fat and leans right into the meat of the information!

Now I am doing Master in Marketing & Management from India Pune University. So I have dream that I want do PhD in Retail which is in the abroad and I am unable do that due to fund so I need guidance of fully funded PhD program.

I am Binod k.c from Nepal. I have a masters degree in management. I have an education of 17 years, can I apply for Phd or not. To apply for Phd I need the education of 18 years or I can study by 17 years. What percentage is needed in masters to apply for the Phd. I hope for the reply.

I am a professional teacher and need to do my PhD on scholarship as i cannot foot the the fees

Hi I have interest in obtaining a phD in education how do I apply for a scholarship?

PLS I AM INTERESTEDIN PHD IN BUSINESS MANAGEMENT. I HAVE M.SC IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION WITH MAJOR ININTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

I am Lekha Erandi,Lecturer in Mass communication ,Open University of Sri Lanka. I’m interested in the field of development communication, women and media and Environmental communication. For my post graduate studies, I did the research based on religious communication. Now I already submitted my MA thesis, it is based on communication for community development. Through study,I strongly believe that communication is the bridge to empower grass root people. My basic degree and post graduate programs were done locally. But as an academic I hope to explore my knowledge widely. and I hope to start my PHD studies in a foreign university as believe that explore would be more important to develop academic credentials.i would like to get some information about fully funded phd in mass communitarian.

I hold Masters in Mathematics Education. Is it possible for me to get fully funding PhD in Mathematics Education to offer. Thank you.

Now I am on the way o finishing M.A in educational leadership and management in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) university. I wish to continue PhD as soon as possible in abroad country…….Could you please help me?

I have Masters in Educational management and I would like to do a PhD in the same field but I have no money.Help me get a scholarship.I will be grateful.Thank u.

i want to do my phd in education.i have completed my master in education. But i need full funded scholarship.How is it possible?

How can I get funding as a Ugandan who has MA Education and worked for six years as adjunct a lecturer in Education.

Thank you very much… The information was useful.

This is really good information.

OK, BUT what is their application based acceptance rates? That is, how many valid applications do they get and how many applicants are then offered acceptance letters?

My Directory of Fully Funded PhD Programs in Education, available at the link above, includes acceptance rates of the programs.

I just applied to a PhD program at Drexel’s School of Education. Fully Funded co-horts are not available. It is $1100 per credit, plus fees…

Hi Meg, thanks for this update! I will look into this and remove Drexel from this list.

Yikes, that price is literally insane.

Very useful information you’ve presented here after scouring the internet for weeks. This term fully funded was the buzzword I was missing. Now to find fully funded PhD programs that can be done online with minimal residency so I don’t have to uproot my family and my current teaching load. Are there any online programs that are fully funded?

Tracy, I have not been able to find any so far. Online programs are typically offered by for-profit universities. However, if you can find a 3-year PhD position that does not require the normal 2 years of course (typically you need to have a Master’s/postgraduate degree already to be eligible for these), you may not need to be in-resident. These programs are more common in Europe, Asia and Oceania. Thus you might spend some time abroad to get started, and then could complete your PhD dissertation remotely. This would require negotiation with your supervisors.

Vicki Johnson, do you have any specific ideas for programs? I have a Master’s degree in English but looking into a doctoral program in International Education or similar. My background is teaching ESL and English.

Try Colorado State University, their program is fairly new (10) but they have some online portion and a short residency program.

Do you have any information about fully funded Ed.D programs?

Same question!

Thank you for the information. I will be finished with my MAT (Biology ) in 2018 and am looking for a PhD program in Education. The program must be fully funded and in Maryland because I am a new Mom and my husband’s job is here in MD. I hope to find something so that we don’t have to move.

Hi Taj, I would suggest looking into the university programs that are nearby you. You can call the admissions office to find out if they offer full funding packages to incoming doctoral students.

Thank you so much and I will do that asap.

Johns Hopkins

Thank you so much Ms. Love.

Really? Do they fully fund?

Hello Johns Hopkins university has a fully funded Phd program in Education.

Did you find something? Same here!

Have you looked at the Universities at Shady Grove?

Hello I am looking now after reading your suggestion!! Thank you.

Is there any Ph.d course after graduation of 4 years in elementary education?

I am looking for the right fellowship for an Ed.D. with a focus on training of teachers in developing countries. I am looking for the university already doing research in African countries. Can you give me any recommendations?

Most of these fellowships sound like assistantships that waive tuition and provide a stipend in exchange for work. NSF gives out fellowships that amount to more than $100,000 for 3 years of study, plus you can work an assistantship. Stanford is making three fellowships each year with a total value of $160,000 for business students. Compared to Fellowships in Science and Technology, Education majors get almost nothing. Education is just not a national priority and is certainly not on an equal footing with STEM fields.

Hi there. I’m looking for a fully-funded PhD degree in education in Australia or Canada. Is there any available? Your kind advice is highly appreciated.

Hi, my Directory available at the link above includes 2 fully funded programs in Canada.

Vicky, fully funded only in Public Health or Education too?! Thanks!

Good day. Any ideas about scholarship opportunity for Africans I to study in the UK apart form the Common wealth. I need a fully opportunity to carry out a PHD in a UK based uni in a Public health related topic that focuses on indigenous women reproductive health

i will appreciate a fully funded on-line course Ed.D in early years/early childhood education.

I have not been able to identify any fully funded online PhD programs in any subject.

Good day. I like to have a PhD fully funded scholarship in Educational Technology and I will appreciate this if I could be directed to the right University. Thank you.

Please see my comment above!

Greetings. I am an experienced minority teacher with strong science and computer technology background. I look forward to a fully funded PhD program in “Educational Technology for the future” research studies. I believe I possess all the tools and an exceptional will to pursue my research in this direction. Any assistance in this direction will be greatly appreciated.

Hi. I wanted to share that you do not need to enter a PhD program specifically in the subject of Educational Technology to do a PhD dissertation in this subject. You can do a dissertation in this subject in a general PhD in Education program. The key is to identify universities with professors who have done research in this subject who are availble serve as your advisor. You might also do a dissertation in this subject in Business PhD program.

Hi: Thank you very much for your response regarding my request. I am a believer of STEAM not just STEM, and an interdisciplinary approach to develop a comprehensive immersive educational programs. I look forward to some kind of an educational foundation or an agency to hear about my proposal to develop a pilot program to implement a “comprehensive immersive educational system” with a strong technology foundation where Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Arts (including Philosophy) to achieve the maximum learning experience of young minds.

Greetings. I appreciate your work here. I am interested in a fully funded PhD programme in Special Education. I shall be very appreciative of your anticipated kind gesture. Thanks

I wish to study fully funded PhD program in Special Education ( especially in the field of autism). Is there any university is conducting this program.

I’m from Asia And fully funded doctoral / PhD courses you know of?

Hi, Looking for a fully funded Ph.D.in education in the Philadelphia area. Are there any? Seems like most listed are out of my state. Thank you.

Try University of Pennsylvania.

I am a Chemical Engineer (BS – Chemical Engineering) with an MBA in Project Leadership & Management, I have applied to George Washington University’s Distance & Online Doctorate Program – Doctor of Engineering (D.Eng) in Engineering Management. I am looking for scholarships & fellowships to enable foot the tuition fees. I am based in Nigeria

My name is Katura Fennell and I am looking into any schools that will fully fund a doctoral program in the area of education. I am currently a teacher in Nashville TN and enrolled at Lipscomb University receiving my Ed.S in leadership, but really want to continue my education and help make a difference in the world of education. Any guidance or list of recent schools that will supply funding? I can be emailed at [email protected] with any information. Thanks in advance.

Hi Katura, the list of fully funded Phd programs in Education above is current as of May 1, 2017. We also sell the exclusive Directory of Fully Funded PhD Programs in Education, which is a detailed directory of 22 universities in the U.S. and Canada offering full funding to all incoming students. You can purchase the Directory here: https://www.fullyfundedcourse.com/free-directory . Best of luck!

Hello, Can I get some information on fully funded Ph.D program in IT and Computer science in US for an international student(Graduate in Information Assurance)? I can be emailed at [email protected] for extra information. Thank you.

Hi Nikhitha, please see our article Fully Funded PhD Programs in Computer Science: https://www.profellow.com/fellowships/fully-funded-phd-programs-in-computer-science/

Hi, thanks for the wonderful info. I’m interested in a few different areas for a PHD that I don’t see listed: Buddhism, Comparative Religions, Psychology, Mythology or Stories (lit, film, poetry, all forms). Given that these subject are not exactly the cats’ meow in terms of financial opportunities afterwords, the study is a labor of love and philanthropy. Could there possibly be a school for me somewhere? I would do a part-time online program with an international university if needed too – I’m in Southern California.

I’m a nurse educator in Singapore. Have been teaching in academic school and hospital for more than 10yrs. I have master of education from university of Sydney. How can I do a part time PhD in education which is fully funded? Please assist.

I have a JD, a few credits short of a LLM (in Comparative Law), and a MA (in African-American World Studies). I have been working as a lawyer for a non-profit Public Interest firm for 12 years, but I want to get a PhD. I have a small family now (3,8 year old girls), so I need a PhD program that is fully funded. I am interested in “Justice” so I can pursue a PhD in either Law, African American Studies, or Education. I have been out of the scholarly environment for so long, I really don’t know where to start. Any help would be appreciated.

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The Top 9 Fully Funded PhD Programs

If you’re concerned about grad school costs, you’re not alone. Even with financial aid, many students find themselves taking on large amounts of debt. However, there are a number of options that can cover most – if not all – of your doctorate costs.

Table of Contents

What Is a Fully Funded PhD Program?

“Fully funded” means that the university offers sufficient funding to cover tuition fees and even a stipend to cover other grad school expenses . To cover gaps, many institutions offer additional support in the form of grants, scholarships, loans, and employment opportunities.

Though rare, some PhD programs offer full funding for all accepted students. Understandably, the admission process is highly competitive for fully funded PhD programs.

Students who don’t meet strict criteria – and aren’t offered full funding – will be expected to pay for their tuition and other study expenses. Most take some form of government funding to do so.

The Top 9 Fully Funded PhD Programs in the US

1. the university of chicago, the department of anthropology, phd in anthropology.

• Courses : Development of Social/Cultural Theory, Archeological Theory & method, and archeological data sets.
• Credits : 18 courses
• Delivery : On-campus
• Full funding : Full tuition, health insurance, and stipend (up to 9 years).
• Other support : Grants, fellowships, and teaching opportunities.
• Acceptance rate : 2.5%
• Location : Chicago, Illinois

With a culture that encourages independent thinking, the University of Chicago has produced more than 90 Nobel Prize winners and produced defining research in several fields. In this interdisciplinary PhD in Anthropology program, students can study with many of the university’s other departments, including: Political Science, History, and Comparative Human Development.

2. Harvard University, T. H. Chan School of Public Health

Phd program in biological sciences in public health  (bph).

• Courses : Biological sciences communications, principles of biostatistics & epidemiology, and computing environments for biology.
• Duration : Approximately 6 years
• Full funding : Stipend, tuition, and health insurance.
• Other support: Fellowships, awards, and grants.
• Acceptance rate: 6%
• Location:  Boston, Massachusetts

As the third-best university in the US , Harvard’s T. H. Chan School of Public Health has incredible prestige. With several specialized public health departments (e.g., Environmental Health, Health & Population, Epidemiology), this program also offers incredible flexibility. Students can courses from the Department of Public Health, Harvard Integrated Life Sciences (HILS), and even MIT.

3. Stanford University, Graduate School of Education

Phd in curriculum studies and teacher education  (cte).

• Courses: Introduction to statistical methods in education, research in curriculum & teacher education, and statistical analysis in education.
• Credits:  135 units
• Duration: 4-5 years
• Delivery:  On-campus
• Full funding : Tuition aid, assistantship salary, and fellowship stipend (for 5 years).
• Other support : Grants, travel fellowships, and emergency funds.
• Location: Stanford, California

Stanford University tops the list  of the best universities for Education Policy Studies, making this one of the best options if you want to earn a PhD in Education. This doctorate is one of the top fully funded PhD programs in education and offers six specializations, including elementary education, teacher education, and science & environmental education.

Note : In addition to this on-campus PhD program, many recognized institutions also offer free online PhD programs in education .

4. Duke University, Trinity College of Arts and Sciences

Phd in literature.

• Courses: Wide range of literary topics, including African American Studies, modern European short fiction, gender studies, and more.
• Duration: 6-7 years
• Delivery: On-campus
• Full funding  includes: Tuition, fees, stipend, and health insurance.
• Other support: Grants, loans, childcare subsidies, and financial hardship aid.
• Location:  Durham, North Carolina

As one of the country’s most renowned private research institutions, Duke University has ten Nobel Laureates under its belt. Their PhD in Literature program encourages students to pursue both independent studies and inter-institutional courses from other affiliated universities. Students are able to take as many programs outside literature as they wish. Typically, all PhD students receive a “stipend, tuition, and fees support, plus six years of full coverage for health and dental insurance premiums.”

5. Rice University, Jones Graduate School of Business

Phd in business.

• Courses:  Microeconomics, econometrics, theory, and dynamic optimization.
• Duration:  4 years +
• Full funding : Tuition waiver and $40,000 yearly stipend (earned as a research/teaching assistant).
• Other support:  Scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment.
• Location: Houston, Texas

Rice University is a well-known institution and is regularly recognized as one of the best business schools in the country. As part of its PhD in Business program, students can choose between one of four different concentrations: accounting, finance, organizational behavior, and strategic management.

Northwestern University, McCormick School of Engineering

Phd in biomedical engineering.

• Courses:  Experimental design & measurement, biological performance of materials, and advanced physical & applied optics.
• Duration: 5-6 years
• Full funding : Tuition scholarship and stipend.
• Other support: Fellowships, grants, assistantships, loans, and veteran benefits.
• Acceptance rate: 15%
• Location: Evanston, Illinois

Northwestern University is renowned for excellence across numerous disciplines, and its biomedical engineering (BME) program was among the first of its kind. The school offers a wide range of courses, from cell and molecular engineering, medical devices and instrumental, neural engineering, and more.

7. Columbia University, Teachers College

Phd in clinical psychology.

• Courses:  Brain & behavior, social problems for clinical psychologists, and personality & behavior change.
• Credits: 95
• Duration: 5 years (at least four years of residency)
• Full funding : Tuition, stipend, and health fees (up to 4 years).
• Other support:  Scholarships, grants, fellowships, federal work-study, assistantships, and loans.
• Acceptance rate:  7%
• Location:  New York City, New York

Columbia University offers a leading clinical psychology PhD program that focuses on the intersection between education, psychology, and health. Their fully funded, need-blind “Doctoral Fellowship” is given to incoming students for three years, in addition to financial aid in the fourth year (i.e., a $25,000 stipend). PhD students who receive this scholarship may be asked to work as research assistants or graduate teachers.

8. California Institute of Technology, Division of Engineering & Applied Science

Graduate degree in computer science.

• Courses:  Functional programming, computability theory, and advanced digital systems design.
• Credits: 54 units
• Duration: 3+ years of residence
• Full funding : Tuition charges and stipends.
• Other support: Grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study.
• Acceptance rate: 7%
• Location: Pasadena, California

Caltech is a huge name in technology education, with over fifty cutting-edge research centers and laboratories. This includes NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and astronomical observatories around the globe. To manage their rigorous course load, graduate students of the computer science program receive full tuition and a stipend of $45,000 .

9. Emory University, College of Arts and Sciences

Ph.D. in Economics

• Courses: Microeconomic theory, health economics, and market structure & imperfect competition.
• Credits: 55
• Duration: 4-6 years
• Full funding : Tuition, stipend, health insurance subsidy, and professional development support.
• Other support:  Grants, scholarships, loans, and student employment.
• Acceptance rate: 19%
• Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Emory University provides a liberal arts college’s atmosphere and opportunities combined with an urban research university’s facilities. This cross-registration program allows students to take classes at the university’s partner institutions, including Georgia Tech and Georgia State University, alongside their in-house courses.

Can I Earn a Free PhD Degree Online?

If you aren’t eligible for a fully funded program, that’s okay! We’ve written an article outlining the most affordable online PhD programs , the benefits, and how to apply to them!

Key Takeaways

Many US universities – including some of the country’s top institution – offer fully funded PhD programs and tuition-free online programs across various disciplines. You’ll just need to demonstrate that you’re eligible for the program through your academic performance and merit.

Once you qualify for full PhD funding, congratulate yourself on a job well done!

If you’re still weighing your options, did you know there are 1-year PhD programs online ?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a phd be free.

Yes. Eligible students can obtain a doctorate for free if a university offers fully funded PhD programs.

How Do I Get a Fully Funded PhD?

To qualify for a fully funded PhD, you’ll be required to meet certain criteria and put together a strong application. You’ll also need to have an excellent undergraduate academic record, recommendation letters, persuasive personal essay, and graduate school entry exam scores .

Fully funded PhDs are incredibly competitive, so it’s important to plan ahead. As an undergraduate student, identify your dream school, and be sure to check the requirements and eligibility criteria. Next, work hard to meet these requirements – and set yourself apart – throughout your undergraduate studies.

Can I Study a PhD in the USA for Free?

Yes. Many US universities offer opportunities to obtain a PhD for free. For example, fully funded doctoral programs will cover your tuition and expenses. Free PhD programs don’t have tuition fees but students are responsible for covering their own expenses.

However, if you aren’t successful in securing a fully funded PhD and don’t like the free options, there are plenty of other ways to pay for grad school .

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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Doctor of Philosophy

• Ph.D. Global Leadership & Change

taking the lead in training tomorrow’s global leaders

To be a successful leader, you need a global perspective that works within all cultural contexts. Tiffin University’s Ph.D. in Global Leadership and Change is designed with a curriculum that focuses on the challenges and tremendous opportunities within today’s complex, cross-cultural work environments. Offered in a convenient online format with limited residency requirements, our program is built for the busy working professional who wishes to pursue a Ph.D. Ready to thrive in today’s fast-changing, interconnected environment? Acquire the global awareness and skills you’ll need to become a visionary leader and agent of change.  

Adult professionals are an underserved group in the area of doctoral studies. Tiffin University’s Ph.D. in Global Leadership and Change is designed for working adults who wish to pursue a Ph.D. while continuing their careers within their business or educational setting.

degree completion

The average completion time of the Ph.D. program is estimated at 3-1/2 to 4-1/2 years. You’ll have up to six years to successfully defend a dissertation and may petition for a seventh. Based on demonstrated academic ability, you may request to take an additional course during any term. The online program will assist you in the balancing of personal, professional and educational needs.

committed to your success

While Ph.D. students typically work independently, the Tiffin University program makes a deep commitment that our students never work alone. Our professional library services are fully engaged with each Ph.D. student and always available through email, text, chat and one-on-one appointments to support your needs, as well as provide course supplements, research guides and weekly research webinars.

Each Ph.D. student is assigned a faculty advisor and the graduate advising department assigns a second advisor. Annual academic progress letters are sent to you to review your progress and develop planning for each new year. Faculty and staff are responsive and actively engaged in your success and achievement.

Admission requirements

A master’s degree or a minimum of 30 credit hours of graduate level coursework is required. Based on the post-graduate nature of the Tiffin University Ph.D. program, no standardized testing is required. Other criteria and submission elements are evaluated for admission decisions.

residency requirements

Residencies are two-day gatherings of active Ph.D. students on the Tiffin University campus. Students will be required to attend three residency events as a degree requirement. The third residency involves the development and submission of a paper or presentation proposal for an academic conference, under the direction of a faculty member.

Demystifying the Residency and Dissertation

potential residency activities

• New student orientation that will address Moodle and class scheduling, a Q & A session, a discussion on potential student difficulties and more
• Library database access and advance academic database research strategies
• Program policies and process such as scheduling, annual academic process and more
• Basic research terminology and design element review
• Strategies for Ph.D. level coursework and program completion
• Specific qualitative or quantitative research seminars for advance training
• Keynote speakers – leading authors of global leadership theory research
• Conference presentation and scholarly publishing training for Ph.D. students
• Faculty networking
• Research interest breakout sessions with faculty and development of individual student dissertation topics
• Mock dissertation defense and an actual “live” dissertation defense as program develops

graduation requirements

• Complete a minimum of 60 doctoral credit hours of coursework
• Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.25 and a grade of B or higher in all program coursework
• Completion of all three residency requirements
• Successful defense of dissertation

INFORMATION NEEDED FOR APPLICATION:

• Official master’s transcript
• Admissions essay/statement of purpose (1500 words)
• Professional resume or CV
• Minimum of 3 professional letters of recommendation

Once Essay is received, applicants schedule a Zoom interview.

After all documents are submitted and the Zoom interview is completed, the student’s file is sent to the remaining PhD admissions committee members for review.

Once all committee members have submitted a decision, the Assistant Director performs operations functions to admit students and release admit letters.

As we experience global and social change within personal and professional environments, the Tiffin University Global Leadership and Change program examines two essential questions:

• How can we help individuals and organizations navigate the stages of global change and develop an understanding of cultural uniqueness?
• How can we provide special attention to individuals who are struggling with change?

The program will explore, identify and examine innovation and change strategies to prepare students to become strong leaders in the global context. Key elements of the curriculum include globalization, individual and group behaviors, organizational cultural and change, systems thinking, innovation, cross-cultural communication and social responsibility.

Students graduate with well-developed skills in global leadership, critical thinking, academic writing, and qualitative and quantitative research method understanding and application.

Each professor within the program is a recognized content expert within the course that they teach. Within the curriculum, faculty will assist you in the examination and implementation of the skills necessary to write and publish professional papers for international conferences. As the culminating project, you (while being mentored by your professor) will write and prepare a non-empirical paper for submission to a peer reviewed conference, hopefully launching your academic publishing career.

SAMPLE COURSES

Leadership and Change Theory and Practice (GLC 710) – The course focuses on global leadership and change theory and knowledge that is relevant to leadership practice. The course presents leadership and management theories/concepts that have emerged over the past several decades within the global environment. It provides students the opportunity to apply these theories through case analysis and to enhance personal skill development through self-assessment exercises. Included in the course are identification of current leaders and leadership as well as contemporary global perspectives on change, ethics, networking, coaching, organizational culture, diversity, learning organizations, strategic leadership and crisis leadership. Theories and applications of knowledge of cross-cultural behaviors in the organizational setting include individual, group and institution processes.

Academic Writing (RES 710) – This course will develop the skills needed to successfully write in the academic environment. The student will learn to do research and develop ideas that are supported by the existing academic literature. The purpose will be for the student to learn how to convey evidence-based meaning concerning complex ideas or concepts in the areas of global leadership and change. Emphasis will be in the format of academic writing, including use of the third-person perspective, a clear focus on the research problem under investigation and precise word choice. It will also emphasize the application of APA format to the academic writing process.

Qualitative Research Methods (RES 720) – The purpose of this course is to compare qualitative research methods to quantitative research. The student will demonstrate how qualitative research must and can be conducted with the same intellectual and methodological rigor as is quantitative research. Qualitative research content will feature solid epistemological and theoretical foundations in philosophy (phenomenology, hermeneutics) composed of various schools of thought, notably grounded theory and ethnomethodology. It leads to very concrete research methods, such as various forms of interviews, participant observation methods, case studies, focus groups and more. Actual case studies will be used in the course.

Quantitative Research Methods (RES 722 ) – This course requires students to become familiar with the characteristics, language and logic of qualitative research. The emphasis will be on the appropriate selection, application and interpretation of both parametric and non-parametric hypothesis tests while understanding the nature of the basic linear regression model and its statistical underpinnings. Basic assumptions will be developed. A component of this course is to understand the available techniques for quantitative data analysis by the reading and evaluation of research methods of articles within the students’ areas of interest and to recognize and assess quality and rigor in evaluating a quantitative research study. Actual case studies will be part of this course and the challenge of reliability and validity in cross-cultural research will be discussed.

Change, Innovation, and Entrepreneurial Motivation (GLC 660) – Students examine change processes, innovation, entrepreneurship, barriers to change, successful structures and strategies aimed at improving the total organization. Theoretical and practical orientation to the strategies organizations use to create and sustain industry-changing innovations are examined. Elements of the course explore global perspectives of strategic organizational change and innovation opportunities. This course explores how the multinational organizational depends critically on its technological and related skills to achieve strategic innovation and change objectives. Students become familiar with theories and models which focus on effective change. Students have the opportunity to examine and apply practical tools for individual and organizational change through case studies and class projects. Key elements of the course include globalization, individual and group behaviors, organizational culture and change, systems thinking, innovation, entrepreneurial motivations and social responsibility.

Online – Offered in two terms per semester starting August and January

The Tiffin University Ph.D. Global Leadership and Change program provides the knowledge and skills necessary for global leadership in today’s complex work environments. The program benefits career development, creating new and rewarding opportunities for professional advancement. As a graduate of the program, you’ll be prepared to join a wide range of organizations, including:

• Community colleges
• Consulting firms
• Corporations
• Government – federal, state and local positions
• Nonprofit organization
• Private and public educational organizations
• Universities

Common position and job titles include:

• Academic Dean
• Business Consultant
• Chief Academic Officer
• C-Level Executive
• Curriculum Specialist
• Entrepreneurial Business Owner
• Human Resources Director
• Leadership/Executive Coach
• Learning & Development Leader
• Military Leadership
• Nonprofit Director
• Organizational Consultant
• Policy Director
• Private Equity Fund Researcher
• Program Coordinator
• Research Manager
• University Administrator
• University Faculty

what is global leadership and change?

Global leadership and change refers to the processes and actions by which an individual influences a variety of internal and external components and people from multiple national cultures and geographic locations. Global leadership and change involves substantial levels of responsibilities as well as an understanding of how to manage complex relationships.

what is a ph.d. in global leadership and change?

A Ph.D. in global leadership and change is designed with a curriculum that prepares students for the challenges and tremendous opportunities within today’s cross-cultural work environment.

what can i do with a degree in global leadership and change?

With a degree in global leadership and change, you will be qualified for a variety of global career opportunities, including academic dean, business consultant, chief academic officer, c-level executive, curriculum specialist, entrepreneurial business owner, human resources director, leadership/executive coach, learning & development director, military leadership, nonprofit director, organizational consultant, policy director, private equity fund researcher, program coordinator, research manager, university administrator, university faculty and more.

Ph.D. Program Requirements

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Doctorate programs.

• Download Doctorate Degree Requirements
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Calculate Your Monthly Tuition Payment

Doctorate in global leadership and change, at a glance.

• Advance your career as a visionary leader
• Faculty are accomplished practitioners and researchers
• Develop your research and dissertation skills
• Online format and limited residency requirements

“The Ph.D. in Global Leadership and Change provides practitioners in a variety of disciplines the skillsets and tools that are necessary to make an impact in their communities. Throughout the program I felt supported, challenged, and grew enormously.”

Featured Video

• Why Should You Get a Ph.D.?

Student Spotlight: Erin Marchant, Ph.D. Global Leadership and Change

Student Spotlight: David Simms, Ph.D. Global Leadership and Change

5 Reasons Why It Pays to Earn Your Ph.D.

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Doctoral Programs

Doctoral programs in accounting, financial economics, marketing, operations, and organizations and management.

The Doctoral Program gives students unparalleled expertise in management. Candidates work under Yale SOM's distinguished faculty, learning side by side with diverse and accomplished scholars.

Deadline: December 15

The application deadline is December 15 of the year in which admission is sought.

Specializations

Students focus in one of the core disciplines of management, developing in-depth knowledge and pursuing their own research interests: Accounting , Finance , Marketing , Operations , or Organizations and Management .

Application for admission to the Doctoral Program in Management is made through the Yale Graduate School.

Students take foundational PhD-level courses in their areas of specialization, and then choose from a course list that spans the university, drawing from some of the best academic departments in the world.

The program's small size allows senior faculty to take an active role in preparing each student for the job search.

• Academic Programs

Leadership and Policy

Overview of leadership and policy program.

The Ph.D. in Leadership and Policy program focuses on bringing social justice and empowerment of those in need to the forefront of research, and provides a course of study in which professionals from various disciplines become change agents. This program is designed to enhance the research and policy leadership acumen of practicing professionals who are already established in their respective career paths. It prepares them for an enriching life of research and scholarship.

Drawing on extensive research experience and real-world understanding and practice, our faculty prepares students to be thoughtful and effective agents of change in leadership and policy positions. As a result of their work at Niagara in generating new knowledge that positions them to make a significant impact on organizations and individuals at the local, national and international levels, our Ph.D. graduates are prepared to engage in meaningful careers in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. 

The Ph.D. program requires 60 credit hours beyond a master’s degree, with at least 48 of those credit hours completed at Niagara University. The programs two main components are 30 credits of leadership and policy core study and 30 credits of research core study.

There are 21 required credits (seven courses) in the leadership and policy study core of the Doctor of Philosophy program. Students, in consultation with their advisor, are able to select nine additional credit hours (three courses) in a concentration area within the field of leadership and policy. All candidates for the Ph.D. complete required courses as cohort members and have the opportunity to work individually toward their dissertation topic.

Request Information

Why leadership and policy at nu, flexibility.

Cohort members fulfill the doctoral residency in the first year of study by completing nine credit hours in the fall and nine in the spring. Classes are on Friday evenings and Saturdays to accommodate professional schedules.

Affordability

Scholarships and grant-in-aid may be available to qualified doctoral candidates via the university, the college, endowments and research project grants. Support through candidate-employer contracts may be an option for some Ph.D. candidates.

The Ph.D. program prepares doctorate-level qualified leaders who can implement systemic change in organizations, communities, and other contexts. It offers an innovative and interdisciplinary model, for a unique experience.

• Requirements for Admission
• Graduate Assistantship & Scholarship Opportunities
• Previous Dissertations

While serving as a logistics squadron commander in the United States Air Force Reserve, one fundamental question plagued my spirit: Have my decisions in leadership roles been effective and fair...and am I prepared to lead and shape policy for rapidly changing environments in the future?

The Ph.D. program in leadership and policy at Niagara University allowed for a deliberate and distinct opportunity to reflect on this question, for which I am extraordinarily grateful. This interdisciplinary, cohort-based experience provided me the opportunity to explore the advantages and pitfalls related to policy generation. Furthermore and equally important, this program challenges cohort members to consider personal leadership qualities and style in addition to understanding what adjustments are needed to better prepare for future leadership roles. Though unaware how timely these studies would become,18 months into the Ph.D. program I was selected for the Air Force Legislative Fellowship, which placed me at the heart of leadership and policy considerations....an assignment on Capitol Hill.

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UCLA Graduate Programs

Graduate Program: Educational Leadership Program

UCLA's Graduate Program in Educational Leadership Program offers the following degree(s):

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

With questions not answered here or on the program’s site (above), please contact the program directly.

Educational Leadership Program Graduate Program at UCLA 1029 Moore Hall Box 951521 Los Angeles, CA 90095-1521

Visit the Educational Leadership Program’s faculty roster

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Visit the registrar's site for the Educational Leadership Program’s course descriptions

• Admission Requirements
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MAJOR CODE: EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

Search NYU Steinhardt

Doctor of Philosophy Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

Prepare for a career as a professor or researcher of educational leadership and policy while interrogating multiple aspects of schools and other educational institutions. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis of contemporary problems of practice in collaborative study environments with professors, school leaders, and doctoral students.

Degree Details

Official degree title.

PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

What You'll Learn

In this doctorate, you will critically examine the conceptual, organizational, political, social, managerial, interpersonal, and technical dimensions of schools and other educational institutions. Research agendas of the faculty and students center on the nexus between theory and practice and explore critical issues facing educational leaders and policymakers today. 

Alternate-Year Admissions

The Educational Leadership and Policy Studies PhD has an alternate year admissions process where candidates will be admitted every other year on the following timeline:

• Entrance in Fall 2024:  December 1, 2023 application deadline
• Entrance in Fall 2025:  no cohort
• Entrance in Fall 2026:  December 1, 2025 application deadline

Prospective applicants should apply beginning September 2023 for Fall 2024 matriculation.

Funding for Full-Time PhD Students

NYU Steinhardt offers a competitive funding package for PhD students who study full time.  Learn more about our funding opportunities .

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Education policy, doctor of philosophy (ph.d.), you are here, an individualized doctoral program and an apprenticeship that prepares you for advanced empirical education policy research..

The goal of the Education Policy doctoral program is to produce the next generation of education policy scholars and researchers by providing students with deep content knowledge, disciplinary grounding, and training in the use of rigorous, cutting-edge methods. We study early childhood education, K-12, and beyond, in the United States and around the world. Our program has a proven record of preparing students for a variety of research careers, such as professors at top tier-universities and policy researchers at premier research firms, non-profit research organizations, and government agencies.

What Sets Us Apart

About the program.

The Education Policy Ph.D. program equips graduates with the knowledge and methodological tools to use, understand, and conduct research on the pressing educational issues of the day.  Your program of study will be matched to your specific interests in education policy on the local, state, national, or international levels. 

Fall: 4 courses; Spring: 4 courses

Research apprenticeship 20 hours per week

Culminating experience Comprehensive examination and doctoral dissertation 

At the heart of the Education Policy Ph.D. program is the research apprenticeship. You will be paired with Education Policy faculty members whose research interests align with your own, and work alongside them in the research process. You will learn to design, conduct, and communicate the results of empirical research, including presenting papers at scholarly conferences and submitting articles to scholarly journals for publication.

In addition to an  individualized program of study,  our students are required to write a significant qualifying paper and complete a dissertation on an issue in education. 

Transfer Courses

Course units of graduate coursework taken prior to matriculation into the Ph.D. degree program, if approved by both your faculty advisor and the Education Policy Chair, may be substituted for one or more of the above required courses. However, students are still required to complete 16 course units while at Penn GSE.

Program Length

Our Ph.D. program is designed to be completed in four years—two years of full-time coursework and two years to complete exams and dissertation. The University’s maximum time limit for completion is ten years after matriculation.

Preliminary Examination/Doctoral Dissertation

At the end of the coursework, students complete a preliminary examination (also known as the qualifying paper or comprehensive examination) covering relevant areas of education policy. Successful passage bestows doctoral candidacy, at which point students appoint a dissertation committee, orally defend their dissertation proposal, and write and defend their dissertation.

Our program offers a balance of flexibility and rigor. We want our students to be able to tailor their courses to their own interests and expertise while ensuring that they develop methodological and content-area expertise. One of the strengths of our program is that students can take courses in nationally ranked departments across the University of Pennsylvania. Many of our students take courses at the Wharton School, the School of Social Policy and Practice, and in departments including Sociology and Political Science. Advisors work closely with students to design their course of study.

For information on courses and requirements, visit the  Education Policy Ph.D. program in the University Catalog .

Our Faculty

The Education Policy faculty study everything from big data in early childhood education to assessment evaluation to the teacher workforce. In addition to the standing faculty in Education Policy, our program is enriched by the scholarship of faculty members from the Literacy, Culture, and International Education, Human Development and Quantitative Methods, and Teaching, Learning, and Leadership divisions. 

Affiliated Faculty

Sigal Ben-Porath MRMJJ Presidential Professor Ph.D., Tel Aviv University

Wendy Chan Assistant Professor Ph.D., Northwestern University

Dennis P. Culhane Professor, Penn Social Policy & Practice Ph.D., Boston College

John MacDonald Professor of Criminology and Sociology, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., University of Maryland

Laura W. Perna Vice Provost for Faculty Ph.D., University of Michigan

Daniel A. Wagner UNESCO Chair in Learning and Literacy Ph.D., University of Michigan

Sharon Wolf Associate Professor Ph.D., New York University

Jonathan Zimmerman Judy and Howard Berkowitz Professor in Education Ph.D., Johns Hopkins University

"I went to Penn GSE because I wanted to understand the education research that drove policy changes, and I wanted to make that research applicable to teachers."

Wendy Castillo

Our graduates.

Our graduates are equipped with the knowledge and methodological tools to use, understand, and conduct research on the pressing educational issues of the day. We have a proven record of preparing students for a variety of research careers, such as professors at top-tier universities and policy researchers at premier research firms, nonprofit research organizations, and government agencies. Some alumni have also gone on to lead schools, districts, and other organizations.

Alumni Careers

Recent job placements.

• Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin-Madison
• Assistant Professor, St. Louis University
• Assistant Professor, University of Maryland, College Park
• Postdoctoral Scholar, University of Pennsylvania
• Postdoctoral Scholar, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Lecturer, Princeton University
• Senior Analyst, Abt Associates
• Research Associate, MDRC
• Analyst, Congressional Research Office

Admissions & Financial Aid

Please visit our Admissions and Financial Aid pages for specific information on the application requirements , as well as information on tuition, fees, financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships.

Contact us if you have any questions about the program.

Graduate School of Education University of Pennsylvania 3700 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19104 (215) 898-6415 [email protected] [email protected]

Nakia Gard Program Manager (215) 573-8075 [email protected]

Noel Lipki Program Coordinator (215) 746-2923 [email protected]

Please view information from our Admissions and Financial Aid Office for specific information on the cost of this program.

All Ph.D. students are guaranteed a full scholarship for their first four years of study, as well as a stipend and student health insurance. Penn GSE is committed to making your graduate education affordable, and we offer generous scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.

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Consortium For Policy Research In Education

The Consortium for Policy Research in Education (CPRE) is a joint effort of seven graduate schools of education. Its research focuses on school reform, governance, policy, and finance.

Penn Early Childhood and Family Research Center

The Penn Early Childhood and Family Research Center aims to advance the use of science in a context of public trust to address problems affecting the well-being of young children and families facing systemic injustice and disadvantage.

Center on Standards, Alignment, Instruction, and Learning

The Center on Standards, Alignment, Instruction, and Learning (C-SAIL) examines how college- and career-ready standards are implemented, if they improve student learning, and what instructional tools measure and support their implementation.

Our Students

Our doctoral students engage in research alongside Education Policy throughout the course of their degree. Learn more about our students and their research.

You May Be Interested In

Related programs.

• Education Policy M.S.Ed. 
• Education, Culture, and Society Ph.D. 
• Higher Education Ph.D. 
• Quantitative Methods M.Phil.Ed.
• Quantitative Methods Ph.D.
• Statistics, Measurement, Assessment, and Research Technology M.S.Ed.

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Humphrey Fellowship Programme 2024-2025 (Fully-funded to the U.S.)

Deadline: Vary by Country

Applications are open for the Humphrey Fellowship Programme 2024-2025 . The Humphrey Fellowship Programme, a Fulbright Exchange, builds connections between U.S. and foreign leaders to advance solutions to the most pressing global challenges, from combatting climate change, to protecting human rights, increasing access to education, and building global health security.

The Humphrey Fellowship Programme was founded in 1978 to honor the late Senator and Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey. President Jimmy Carter announced the establishment of the Humphrey Fellowship Programme in Venezuela with the intent to create a programme that embodied the values of democracy, social justice, and a desire to assist the world’s developing nations. In 1979, the first Humphrey Fellows arrived in the United States, welcoming 27 mid-career professionals from 24 countries to 11 U.S. universities.

Fellowship Components

• Professional Affiliation:  A core component of the Humphrey Fellowship Programme is a six-week Professional Affiliation (PA) experience that allows Fellows to collaborate with U.S.-based organizations, share best practices and knowledge with U.S. professionals, and apply their classroom learning to real-world settings. Humphrey Fellows serve an essential role at U.S. organizations while forming connections and impact that last long beyond their Fellowship year.
• Humphrey Seminar:  The Humphrey Seminar is a required course where Humphrey Fellows develop their individual programme goals and plan. It focuses on broad programmatic objectives, including an increased understanding of U.S. society and culture, professional networking, and leadership development.
• Global Leadership Forum:  The Global Leadership Forum provides an opportunity for all Humphrey Fellows to participate in activities that enhance their leadership and professional skills; develop their understanding of social, cultural, and political processes and institutions; foster cross-sector collaboration between the cohort; and leverage the resources and networks available to them in our nation’s capital.
• Professional Development:  The Humphrey Fellowship provides development opportunities to contribute to Humphrey Fellows’ professional growth and help them build partnerships that can take their work to the next level.
• Academic Enrichment:  Humphrey Fellows are placed in cohorts at one of 13 Humphrey host universities based on the host university’s impact areas and the Fellows’ professional expertise. Humphrey Fellows partake in an educational experience where they learn from renowned faculty without the expectation of meeting specific degree or diploma requirements.

The Humphrey Fellowship Programme is a Fulbright exchange activity funded by the U.S. Department of State and administered by the Institute of International Education.

The Fellowship includes:

• Payment of tuition and fees at the assigned host university 
• Pre-academic English language training, if required 
• A maintenance (living) allowance, including a one-time settling-in allowance
• Accident and sickness coverage 
• A book allowance 
• A one-time computer subsidy 
• Air travel (international travel to and from the U.S. for the Program and domestic travel to required program events) 
• A Professional Development allowance for professional activities, such as field trips, professional visits, and conferences

Eligibility

• Be a citizen of an eligible country.
• Have an undergraduate (first university or Bachelor’s) degree. 
• Have a minimum of five years of full-time professional experience .
• Demonstrated leadership qualities and a record of public service in the community.
• Limited experience in the United States.
• Demonstrated English language ability.

Application

Interested applicants must apply through the U.S. Embassy (Public Affairs Section) or Binational Fulbright Commission in their country. Application deadlines vary by country.

Applications must contain:

• Complete answers to all questions; essay responses in English must thoroughly address the prompt.
• Two letters of reference in English; one must be from the applicant’s current employer.
• Official transcripts in English: Ensure all transcripts uploaded by the applicant are official, valid documents. Transcripts must list courses taken and grades received. Diplomas need only be uploaded if the transcript does not show proof that the degree was obtained.

For more information, visit Humphrey Fellowship .

Jude Ogar is an educator and youth development practitioner with years of experience working in the education and youth development space. He is passionate about the development of youth in Africa.

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Louisville institute grant 2025 for researchers (up to $55,000), earth prize 2025 for student environmental projects (up to $100,000 in prizes), commonwealth short story prize 2025 (up to £5,000).

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Justice Studies, PHD

On this page:, at a glance: program details.

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: PHD Justice Studies

The PhD program in justice studies at the nation's first School of Social Transformation invites all qualified applicants.

The diverse community of scholars unites students and faculty across academic boundaries to strategically create social change that is democratic, inclusive and just. The interdisciplinary doctoral program in justice studies prepares future scholars and change agents to address complex social problems and become tomorrow's leaders.

Degree Requirements

Curriculum plan options.

• 84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (6 credit hours) JUS 620 Justice Research Methodology (3) JUS 640 Theoretical Perspectives on Justice (3)

Other Requirement (3 credit hours) JUS 630 Data Analysis for Justice Research (3) or JUS 650 Advanced Qualitative Data Analysis (3) or SST 691 Topic: Qualitative Methods for Qualitative Researchers (3)

Electives and Research (63 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) JUS 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information For the other requirement course, students may take JUS 630, JUS 650, SST 691 or other methods course at ASU approved by the justice studies graduate director.

Students entering the doctoral program with a master's or JD degree may complete a minimum of 54 credit hours for the program. In addition to the requirements listed above, coursework includes 15 credit hours of elective classroom hours (nine of which must have a JUS prefix) and 18 credit hours comprising any combination of additional elective courses, reading and conference courses, or research courses.

Students entering the doctoral program without a master's or Juris Doctor degree are required to complete 84 credit hours. In addition to the requirements listed above, the coursework includes 12 credit hours of 500-level foundation courses, 24 credit hours of elective classroom hours (15 of which must have a JUS prefix) and 27 credit hours comprising any combination of additional electives courses, reading and conference courses, or research courses.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• personal statement
• writing sample
• three letters of recommendation (academic references are preferred)
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

The personal statement should be 1 1/2 to 2 pages, double spaced, and outline the applicant's areas of interest, educational and career goals. The writing sample should be 10 to 15 pages and discuss the research that best represents the applicant's academic thinking and writing skills.

The PhD/JD option allows qualified students to earn a Juris Doctor from ASU's Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law while simultaneously earning a transdisciplinary doctoral degree in justice studies. Students must apply separately to both programs. Applicants should contact the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law for its requirements.

Flexible Degree Options

Concurrent degree program.

Students can choose to create their own concurrent degree combination to match their interests by working with their academic advisor during or after their first semester of study. Some concurrent combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum; students should speak with their academic advisor for more details.

This degree is also offered as a concurrent program with the following:

Juris Doctor of Law, JD -->

Juris doctor of law, jd.

Website | Compare Programs

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, application deadlines, learning outcomes.

• Graduates of the PhD program in justice studies will demonstrate knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
• Graduates of the doctoral program in justice studies will demonstrate the ability to differentiate various theoretical perspectives of justice in their written work.
• Graduates will be able to demonstrate intersectional knowledge of justice and use an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approach to address societal problems and generate solutions in their dissertations.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the doctoral program in justice studies are prepared to work in justice-related organizations, teach in community colleges and universities, and conduct research in the justice field.

Global Opportunities

Global experience.

With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-7682

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

Credit Hours

View Courses

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Choose Liberty’s Doctorate in Strategy?

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

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

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

What Will You Study in Our Online Leadership Doctorate?

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

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

Potential Career Opportunities

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

Featured Courses

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

Degree Information

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

Degree Completion Plan

Not sure what to choose?

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

• Tuition & Aid

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

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

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information Our Online Doctoral Degree in Leadership

Admission requirements.

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

Preliminary Acceptance

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

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

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

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

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

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Email for Documents

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Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

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Lynchburg, VA 24515

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Submit your application online or over the phone.

Apply by phone: (800) 424-9595

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

Who May Qualify?

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

Military Tuition Discount

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

Is a doctorate worth it?

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

Can you teach with a professional doctorate?

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

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

What resources will be available to me in this program?

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

How do I choose between a Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Strategic Leadership?

A Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) is a professional degree that provides you with the opportunity to develop practical skills. Regardless of career field, these skills may be applicable in leadership roles. If your goal is to advance your career and develop valuable skills, this program may be the right next step.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Strategic Leadership program may focus more on original research and less on practical skills. This program may be useful if your career aspirations lay in the world of academia.

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PhD Opportunities for Humanitarians

Are you a humanitarian practitioner with an idea for a research project? Are you interested in becoming a ‘pracademic’? Are you keen to build your research skills to contribute to change in the global aid system?

Deakin University is seeking individuals that are passionate about pursuing humanitarian-related topics in a fully-funded and well-supported PhD program.

Deakin is home to Faculties of Arts and Education, Business and Law, Health, and Science, Engineering and Built Environment, as well as the Institute for Frontier Materials, Institute for Intelligent Systems Research and Innovation, and the Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute. The Faculty of Arts and Education includes the   Centre for Humanitarian Leadership   and the   Development-Humanitarian Research Group .

The Centre for Humanitarian Leadership is an innovative collaboration between Deakin University and Save the Children that combines good humanitarian practice with academic rigour. The Centre sits within the Faculty of Arts and Education at Deakin University.

We engage in collaborative research that informs, impacts, and influences real-world leadership in humanitarian contexts. Our research agenda looks beyond the academic to how communities, organisations and individuals are meeting the challenge of leadership in the humanitarian system and a changing world.

We are looking for prospective PhD or Masters of Research candidates with backgrounds in the areas of humanitarian and/or development aid. Applications are being accepted across faculties and disciplines.

We encourage applications on topics that deal with humanitarian aid and response. Successful candidates will receive   scholarships of $28,092 p.a. for three years   (or two years for Masters). Learn more about scholarships at Deakin   here .

How to apply

To apply, please identify and contact a prospective Deakin supervisor as soon as possible to discuss your project. Information on finding a supervisor is available   here .

Applications for 2020 are also being accepted on a rolling basis from now until 30 September.   Successful applicants must commence their studies on or before 30 November 2020.  

Please note

Competitive applicants typically require an Honours degree with a first-class result, or equivalent (e.g minor thesis). Information about the application process is here .

Applicants must be Australian citizens, permanent residents or international students currently in Australia  pursuing full-time HDR study.

Get the latest in leadership

Stay across the latest humanitarian action, research, events, and education updates from the Centre and our global partners.

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Higher Education & Student Affairs

PhD in Education with a concentration in Higher Education Leadership

The Ph.D. in Education equips students to systematically examine the theoretical and practical challenges evident across the P-20 educational pipeline to address the issue of inequity. The degree program will prepare individuals for careers in academia, research, and policy centers, as well as for high-level administration and curricular positions at educational institutions and agencies. 

The Ph.D. in Education offers both high residency and low residency options. High residency students will take courses on-campus, hybrid-flex, and remote synchronous modalities. Students in the high residency option should be able to come to campus for evening courses. Low residency students will take remote synchronous courses scheduled in the evenings and will be required to come to Baltimore for an in-person retreat during the Fall and spring semesters. 

Candidates for the Ph.D. in Education degree must complete a minimum of 54 academic credit hours, pass the comprehensive exam, and submit and successfully defend a research-based dissertation . All students in the program will be expected to complete academic core and research courses of 27 credits and concentration courses of 27 credits. 

Core courses include:

• ASLP 600 Introduction to Doctoral Studies and Academic Writing
• ASLP 640 Race and Public Policy in Education
• ASLP 642 Equity and Social Justice in Education
• ASLP 620 Introduction to Educational Research
• ASLP 700 Methods of Inquiry
• ASLP 710 Quantitative Research Methods
• ASLP 712 Qualitative Research Methods

Higher Education concentration courses include:

• RDHE 702 Historical Foundations of Higher Education
• RDHE 707 Finance and Budgeting in Higher Education
• RDHE 722 Organizational Theory in Higher Education
• RDHE 727 Legal Aspects of Higher Education
• RDHE 731 Governance and Administration in Higher Education
• RDHE 754 Higher Education Politics and Policy Analyses
• RDHE 763 Leadership in Higher Education

Residency Weekends

Required residency weekends are embedded in the Ph.D. program as a central part of the intensive, cohort-based model. Doctoral work can be a challenging process, but building peer structure helps students succeed. Residency weekends will help students get to know faculty and fellow cohort members and foster the development of their doctoral identity. They will occur once each semester for students who have not attained candidacy, and the dates will be set and distributed during orientation. 

The educational objectives for the Ph.D. in Education are the following:

• To advance research on inequity issues within the full P-20 educational pipeline.
• To prepare students to use original and existing research to transform educational practice.
• To equip future educational researchers with innovative teaching experience and cutting-edge transdisciplinary research experience to become attractive job candidates on the academic market.
• To prepare candidates to create a collaborative learning community that integrates all the various educational contexts.
• To prepare candidates to be critical thinkers who focus on leadership, policy, ethics, and social justice.

Admission Application Deadlines:

• January 15 - Priority deadline for those seeking graduate student funding
• February 15 - Final deadline

All application materials must be received by this date for consideration

Visit the Graduate School page to apply today!

1. Applicants are required to have at least 1 year of post-master's, full-time professional work experience in a college/university setting, or closely related professional experience (such as a higher education association, policy association, state/federal agency focused on higher education, etc.) that would allow an applicant to understand the context and general environment of higher education.

2. Official transcripts of all academic work completed at other regionally accredited institutions of higher education are required prior to matriculating and beginning coursework. Applicants are expected to have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale for the last two years of undergraduate work, and a GPA of 3.5 or better on all postgraduate study beyond the baccalaureate degree. Applicants with a graduate GPA of less than 3.5, but above 3.0 will be considered along with other materials that show academic promise for success.

3. Three (3) official recommendations from supervisors, faculty, or professionals who can comment on and attest to applicant's ability to engage in doctoral level work. Note that recommendations cannot come from family members or friends.

4. A written statement outlining the applicant's background and experience in higher education, specific career goals related to higher education, and how achieving a PhD through Morgan State University's program will assist in accomplishing those career goals. Applicants should also discuss any initial research ideas about the dissertation, and how faculty might be able to support and nurture those research ideas. Applicants are not required to identity a faculty "sponsor" or primary research advisor before being admitted; but if an applicant wishes to work with particular faculty that should be mentioned. It is imperative that applicants discuss all elements outlined above in their personal statement. 

5. A current resume or curriculum vita, documenting professional experiences.

6. A sample of professional writing (such as a professional paper, grant proposal, publication, or research proposal abstracts). If applicant does not have a recent professional writing sample, applicants are asked to respond to the following questions in a 4-5-page essay: What do you see as three (3) major trends or issues facing higher education? What are the implications of these trends/issues for campuses (including students, faculty, staff, or other constituents)?

7. International students, whose native language is not English, must provide a minimum TOEFL score of 590 PBT/97 iBT (scores approximately at the 75th percentile), or an IELTS score of 6.5, and demonstrate through the required written documentation and interview that they have requisite verbal and analytical skills needed to successfully complete the program. Applicants whose native language is not English must recognize that the program does not teach English Language skills; it is expected that international applicants have mastery and proficiency in both written and spoken English at a level that would allow them to fully participate in and contribute to the PhD program.

8. Personal interview with program faculty (at discretion of faculty).

9. NOTE: As of October 2017, GRE/MAT tests are no longer required for admission into the PhD program.

All application materials must be sent directly to the Graduate School. Any materials sent to the department or the program coordinator will not be placed in an applicant's file. It is the responsibility of applicants to ensure that all materials are appropriately submitted. Applicants should not ask the department to follow-up on their behalf.

Our program offers three types of funding:

• Graduate Research Assistantships
• Graduate Teaching Assistantships
• Tuition Awards

Many of our students also leverage their Tuition Remission benefits from local institutions like the   USM schools ,   JHU , or   Morgan State . Tuition Remission is determined and coordinated by your institution. We encourage you to speak with your HR representative about how to use these benefits. 

Dr. Tanya Johnson, Alumna

For More Information:

• Please contact   Karoline Ruhdorfer   at   [email protected]
• Find us on Twitter at  @MorganStateHESA

Contact Information

Dr. Steve Mobley Jr. Program Director & Associate Professor Department of Advanced Studies, Leadership and Policy Banneker Building #315H

P: (443) 885-3292 E:   [email protected]

Interested in Our Programs? Please contact us: https://forms.gle/YU6U6CcEDYyhSraj8

UK Scholarships for International Students: A Complete Guide

Learn all about UK scholarships for international students, covering eligibility requirements, application tips, and the best scholarships available to support your education in the United Kingdom.

The United Kingdom has long been one of the most popular study destinations for international students. With its world-renowned universities and vibrant academic culture, studying in the UK offers an incredible opportunity to gain a global perspective while earning prestigious degrees. However, the cost of education can be a significant barrier for many students. That's where UK scholarships for international students come into play, making it easier for students worldwide to pursue their academic dreams in the UK.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore various full scholarships for international students in the UK, focusing on undergraduate and postgraduate opportunities. Whether you're a student seeking financial aid, a parent supporting your child's education, or a counselor guiding students toward success, this blog will provide valuable insights into the various scholarships available, their benefits, and how to apply for them.

Why Study in the UK?

The UK is home to some of the world's oldest and most respected universities, such as the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. Beyond its prestigious reputation, the UK offers a wide range of courses and degree programs across various disciplines, ensuring that students can find programs that match their career aspirations.

But why choose the UK over other countries? Let’s break it down:

• World-class education : The UK has consistently ranked among the top global education providers, with its universities featuring prominently in international rankings. Degrees from UK institutions are recognized and respected worldwide, which can significantly boost your career prospects.
• Cultural diversity : Studying in the UK exposes students to a diverse and multicultural environment essential for personal and professional growth. You will interact with peers from all over the globe, fostering global networks and learning about different perspectives.
• Research opportunities : The UK is a leader in academic research, making it an attractive destination for those interested in postgraduate research and innovation. With access to cutting-edge facilities and esteemed faculty, students are encouraged to push the boundaries of their disciplines.
• Work opportunities : The UK offers international students the chance to work while studying, and several post-study work visa options allow graduates to gain valuable work experience in the UK. This can be particularly beneficial for students looking to establish themselves professionally before returning to their home countries.

While these benefits make the UK an appealing destination, the high tuition and living expenses can deter many students. In such cases, scholarships to study in the UK can help to alleviate financial pressure.

Read more about UK University Applications & What Students Need to Know .

Types of UK Scholarships for International Students

There are various scholarships to study in the UK, each tailored to different academic levels and fields of study. Here are the most common types of scholarships available for international students:

1. Full Scholarships for International Students in the UK

Full scholarships for international students in the UK are highly coveted because they cover the entire cost of tuition, accommodation, and sometimes even living expenses. These scholarships are often awarded to students with outstanding academic records, leadership potential, or unique talents, making them highly competitive.

• Chevening Scholarships : One of the most prestigious scholarships for foreign students in the UK, Chevening is a government-funded program that offers full financial support for one-year master's programs. It is awarded to students with excellent academic records, proven leadership capabilities, and a commitment to contributing to their home country. Chevening scholars are expected to return home after completing their studies and apply their knowledge in ways that benefit their communities. This makes the scholarship attractive for students eager to make a significant impact in their professional fields.
• Commonwealth Scholarships : Funded by the UK government, Commonwealth Scholarships are available for students from Commonwealth countries and cover tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses. They are available for students of both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Commonwealth Scholarships focus on development goals, particularly in areas such as education, health, environment, and technology. They aim to nurture future leaders who will contribute to the progress of their home countries.
• Gates Cambridge Scholarships : Awarded to outstanding international students looking to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge, this scholarship covers all costs and is available to students from any country outside of the UK. Recipients are selected based on their intellectual ability, leadership potential, and commitment to improving the lives of others. The scholarship fosters a community of global leaders focused on tackling pressing global challenges.

2. Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students in the UK

International students can access a range of undergraduate scholarships in the UK, designed to alleviate the financial challenges of pursuing a degree abroad

• University-specific Scholarships: Many UK universities offer undergraduate scholarships for international students based on merit, financial need, or a combination of both. These scholarships can range from partial tuition waivers to full coverage of tuition fees. For instance, the University of Sheffield offers the International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship, which awards up to 50% of tuition costs for high-achieving students. University-specific scholarships often come with additional benefits, such as access to special mentoring programs, networking opportunities, and events with academic leaders, all of which enhance the student experience.
• Reach Oxford Scholarship : This scholarship is aimed at students from low-income countries who cannot study in their home country due to financial or political reasons. It covers tuition, living expenses, and return airfare. This scholarship focuses on providing opportunities to students who would otherwise be unable to access quality education. 

3. Postgraduate Scholarships in the UK for International Students

Postgraduate scholarships are more common in the UK and cover master's and doctoral studies. Postgraduate scholarships in the UK for international students are typically awarded based on academic excellence, research potential, and sometimes professional achievements.

• Rhodes Scholarship : One of the oldest and most prestigious scholarships globally, the Rhodes Scholarship provides full financial support for students pursuing postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford. Rhodes scholars are selected based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to public service. The Rhodes Scholarship is highly selective and fosters a tight-knit community of scholars from around the world, creating lifelong bonds and networks that extend beyond the university experience.
• Commonwealth Shared Scholarship : This program is targeted toward students from developing Commonwealth countries who would not be able to study in the UK without financial support. It focuses on fields that promote social and economic development, such as healthcare, engineering, and education. The scholarship not only covers tuition and living expenses but also provides a platform for students to engage in impactful research projects that contribute to global development.

4. Scholarships for Master’s Degrees in the UK

Master's programs in the UK are renowned for their academic rigor and shorter duration compared to other countries, often lasting just one year. There are numerous scholarships for master’s degrees in the UK aimed at international students:

• British Council Scholarships for women in STEM : Covering tuition, travel, and living expenses, this scholarship aims to bridge the gender gap in STEM fields and empower women to lead in scientific innovation. Women pursuing master's degrees in engineering, technology, and science disciplines are encouraged to apply for this scholarship, which also provides them with mentorship opportunities and access to global networks.
• Clarendon Fund Scholarships : Available at the University of Oxford, this scholarship covers tuition and college fees in full, along with a generous grant for living expenses. Recipients of the Clarendon Scholarship are selected based on academic excellence and leadership qualities. The Clarendon Fund supports students across a wide range of academic disciplines, ensuring that those with potential have access to top-tier education regardless of their financial background.

5. Specific UK University Scholarships for International Students

These scholarships cover a range of fields, from arts and humanities to engineering and medical sciences. UK universities are renowned for their global impact, and their scholarships are a testament to their commitment to attracting international talent.

• Imperial College London scholarships : Imperial College London offers several scholarships for international students, including the President’s PhD Scholarships, which provide full funding for postgraduate research. Imperial College London is known for its research in science, technology, and medicine, and the scholarships are designed to attract top international talent to these fields.
• UCL Global Undergraduate scholarships : University College London offers this scholarship to international undergraduate students with financial needs, covering full tuition and a living stipend. UCL prioritizes diversity and inclusivity, providing financial assistance to students from underrepresented regions and backgrounds.
• University of Edinburgh scholarships : This university offers various scholarships, including the Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship, which is available to international students pursuing PhD programs. Edinburgh is known for its research output and offers opportunities for students to engage in groundbreaking research projects.
• Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarship : The University of Warwick offers this competitive scholarship to the most outstanding PhD applicants worldwide. It covers tuition and provides a substantial living stipend. Warwick is a leader in interdisciplinary research, making it a top choice for international PhD students.

Here’s how you can apply to multiple UK Universities through Cialfo Direct Apply . 

Why Choose UK Scholarships?

Choosing UK scholarships for international students over scholarships in other countries can provide unique advantages. With access to prestigious universities and a rich academic culture, UK scholarships for international students offer students the opportunity to receive world-class education while benefiting from extensive financial support. Scholarships for foreign students in the UK are designed to foster global talent and provide students with a diverse, multicultural experience.

One of the key advantages of UK scholarships for international students is the opportunity to gain international experience in a country known for its academic excellence and cultural diversity. Whether through research opportunities, internships, or leadership programs, UK universities provide students with the tools and experiences necessary to succeed in the global job market.

How to Increase Your Chances of Earning a UK Scholarship

Securing a UK scholarship for international students is highly competitive, but several strategies can increase your chances of success. Here are some practical tips:

1. Start Early and Research Thoroughly

Begin your scholarship search well in advance, ideally a year before you plan to start your studies. Research various scholarships that align with your academic background, goals, and financial needs. Whether you're applying for a scholarship for a master's degree in the UK or a full scholarship for international students in the UK, starting early gives you the advantage of preparing strong applications.

2. Tailor Your Application

Avoid submitting a generic application. Instead, tailor your statement, essays, and other documents to each specific scholarship. Highlight your academic achievements, leadership roles, extracurricular activities, and how the scholarship will help you achieve your long-term goals.

3. Focus on Leadership and Community Involvement

Many scholarships, especially government-funded ones like Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships, prioritize candidates who have demonstrated leadership and community involvement. Highlight your leadership roles, volunteer work, or initiatives that have positively impacted your community.

4. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

Choose recommenders who know you well and can provide detailed and positive references. Whether you're applying for a scholarship for a master's degree in the UK or an undergraduate scholarship, strong letters of recommendation can significantly boost your application.

5. Proofread and Polish Your Application

Before submitting, proofread all your application materials to avoid grammatical errors or inconsistencies. A well-polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which can leave a positive impression on scholarship committees.

How to Write A Good Scholarship Application Letter

Filling in a scholarship application can be a daunting task. Here’s how to effectively approach the writing process to increase your chances of success.

1. Start with a Strong Opening

Your opening statement sets the tone for the entire application. Begin with a compelling introduction that grabs the reader’s attention right away. In addition, your opening should be memorable and aligned with the goals of the scholarship you are applying for.

2. Demonstrate Alignment with the Scholarship’s Mission

If you are applying for scholarships to study in the UK, discuss how studying in the UK specifically aligns with your personal and professional goals. Be extremely specific about how the scholarship will enable you to contribute meaningfully to your field or community.

3. Provide Clear, Concise Examples

Throughout your application, use concrete examples to support your statements. Avoid vague statements like "I am a hard worker" and instead show how you applied effort to achieve a specific outcome. If you are applying for scholarships meant for foreign students in the UK, you can describe how your international perspective will enrich your study experience and the broader academic community.

4. Focus on Your Unique Qualities

Reflect on what differentiates you from other applicants. Are there specific life experiences that shaped your perspective? Did you overcome challenges to reach your current academic standing? Highlight these unique aspects in a way that resonates with the scholarship’s values.

5. End with a Clear Vision

Conclude your application by outlining your future aspirations and how the scholarship will help you achieve them. Make sure to articulate your long-term goals. Discuss how the opportunity to study in the UK will equip you with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in your field or community. Ending on a strong note reinforces your commitment to making the most of the scholarship.

Eligibility Criteria Breakdown

When applying for UK scholarships for international students, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria, which can vary depending on the scholarship provider and program. Here’s a breakdown of the most common criteria:

1. Academic Excellence

Most scholarships prioritize academic achievement, so strong grades, research experience, and intellectual curiosity are key factors. Some scholarships may require a minimum GPA or equivalent academic performance to be eligible.

2. Financial Need

Many scholarships, particularly government-funded ones, are awarded based on financial need. Applicants are often required to provide proof of financial hardship or demonstrate that they would be unable to afford UK education without financial aid.

3. Leadership and Extracurricular Activities

Scholarships such as the Chevening Scholarship and Rhodes Scholarship prioritize leadership potential and community involvement. Applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to public service, activism, or leadership roles in their communities will stand out.

4. Specific Fields of Study

Certain scholarships are designed for students pursuing specific fields of study, such as STEM fields, arts, or social sciences. Be sure to check whether the scholarship aligns with your intended field of study.

5. Nationality or Country of Residence

Many scholarships are targeted at students from specific countries or regions. For example, Commonwealth Scholarships are specifically for students from Commonwealth nations, while GREAT Scholarships cater to students from specific countries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for UK Scholarships

While applying for scholarships, it's important to avoid common mistakes that could disqualify your application. Here are some key things to watch out for:

• Missing deadlines: Scholarship deadlines are often months in advance of the academic year. Missing the deadline usually means missing the opportunity entirely, so it's crucial to stay organized and submit all materials on time.
• Incomplete applications: Applications that are missing required documents, such as recommendation letters, transcripts, or personal statements, will typically be rejected. Double-check that all components of the application are complete before submission.
• Applying for the wrong scholarships: Ensure that you meet all eligibility criteria before applying to UK scholarships for international students. Applying for a scholarship for which you do not qualify will not only waste your time but also drastically reduce your chances of success.

Alternative Funding Options for International Students

In addition to UK scholarships for international students, there are several alternative funding options available that can help cover the cost of studies for international students in the UK.

1. Student Loans

International students may be eligible for private student loans through various lenders. These loans typically cover tuition and living expenses, but they come with repayment terms that begin after graduation. While loans are not as desirable as scholarships, they can provide essential financial support for students who do not secure enough scholarship funding.

2. Grants and Fellowships

Several organizations offer grants and fellowships that cater to specific research areas, social causes, or fields of study. These grants may cover project expenses, research costs, or even travel expenses for students involved in specialized work. Fellowships can also stipulate living expenses while students focus on academic or research pursuits.

3. Assistantships

Graduate, teaching, and research assistantships are common in UK universities, especially for postgraduate students. These assistantships provide students with stipends, reduced tuition, or even full tuition coverage in exchange for work in academic departments. Assistantships also offer valuable work experience that complements students' academic pursuits.

4. Part-Time Work

International students in the UK are allowed to work part-time during their studies, up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. This helps students cover living expenses, and although it doesn't cover tuition, it can be a valuable supplementary income source. Part-time work can also provide students with professional experience in their field of study.

Studying in the UK opens the door to incredible academic and professional opportunities, but the cost can be a significant barrier. Fortunately, numerous UK scholarships for international students are available to help make these dreams a reality. Whether you're seeking full scholarships, undergraduate scholarships, or postgraduate scholarships in the UK for international students, there are countless options to explore! By carefully researching and applying, students can significantly reduce their financial burden and take full advantage of the world-class education that the UK has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how can i apply for uk scholarships for international students.

You can apply by researching available scholarships, ensuring you meet the eligibility requirements, and submitting your application by the deadline. Be sure to include all necessary documents.

2. Are there full scholarships for international students in the UK?

Yes, several full scholarships, such as Chevening, Commonwealth, and Gates Cambridge, cover tuition, living expenses, and more.

3. What is the difference between undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships?

Undergraduate scholarships for international students in the UK are for those pursuing bachelor's degrees, while postgraduate scholarships for international students in the UK cater to master's and PhD students.

4. Are there scholarships for specific fields of study?

Yes, many scholarships are tailored to specific fields, such as scholarships for master degrees in fields like business, engineering, and STEM.

5. What types of scholarships are available for UK students?

There are several types of scholarships for UK students available, including merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and specific field scholarships. Many UK universities offer scholarships based on academic excellence, while government programs like the GREAT Scholarships provide opportunities for UK students to study abroad. Private organizations and charities may also extend scholarships to those pursuing specialized fields or research projects.

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A List of Canadian Scholarships for International Students in 2024-2025

Canada is a popular destination for international students, offering high-quality education and a welcoming environment. However, studying abroad can be expensive, so many international students with strong academic profile , seek scholarships to help fund their education. In 2024, there are numerous Canadian Scholarships for International Students ranging from government-funded opportunities to those provided by universities and private organizations.

Here’s a comprehensive list of Canadian scholarships for international students in 2024.

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)

The Vanier CGS program is designed to attract world-class doctoral students to Canadian universities. It financially supports students who demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership abilities.

• Eligibility: Open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students.
• Value: CAD 50,000 per year for up to three years.
• Fields of Study: Health research, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities.
• Application Deadline: The deadline is November 1, 2024, for the 2025 competition.

2. Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships

The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships program aims to attract and retain top-tier postdoctoral talent nationally and internationally in Canada. It is designed to encourage the development of leadership potential.

• Eligibility : Open to both Canadian and international postdoctoral students.
• Value: CAD 70,000 per year for two years (non-renewable).
• Fields of Study : Health research, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities.
• Application Deadline: The deadline is September 18, 2024, for the 2025 cycle.

3. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) Program  

The Ontario Graduate Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship that encourages excellence in graduate studies at the master’s and doctoral levels.

• Eligibility: Available to international students studying at an Ontario university.
• Value : CAD 5,000 per term, with a maximum of CAD 15,000 per academic year.
• Fields of Study: Open to all disciplines.
• Application Deadline: Deadlines vary by university. Generally, applications are due between October and February, depending on the institution.

4. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships at the University of Toronto

The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program at the University of Toronto is intended to recognize international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and creativity and are recognized as leaders within their school.

• Eligibility: International secondary school students whose school nominates.
• Value: Covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years.
• Fields of Study : All undergraduate programs at the University of Toronto.
• Application Deadline : The student application deadline is usually in December. Check the university’s website for the most accurate deadlines for 2025.

5. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program

The UBC International Scholars Program offers scholarships to international students based on financial need and academic merit. UBC is committed to supporting international students through awards, scholarships, and other financial aid forms.

• Eligibility : Open to international students entering undergraduate programs.
• Value : The value varies, covering a significant portion of tuition and living expenses.
• Fields of Study: All undergraduate programs at UBC.
• Application Deadline : December 2024.

6. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)

The University of Manitoba offers the UMGF to full-time graduate students (master’s and Ph.D.) to encourage research and scholarly excellence.

• Eligibility: International students must be enrolled or plan to enroll as full-time graduate students.
• Value : CAD 14,000 per year for master’s students and CAD 18,000 per year for Ph.D. students.
• Fields of Study : All disciplines offered at the University of Manitoba.
• Application Deadline : Varies by department; generally, early 2025.

7. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships

These scholarships are offered to outstanding doctoral candidates in the social sciences and humanities whose work is related to one of the foundation’s four themes: Human Rights and Dignity, Responsible Citizenship, Canada and the World, or People and their Natural Environment.

• Eligibility: International and Canadian students pursuing a doctoral program at a Canadian institution.
• Value: Up to CAD 40,000 annually for three years plus an annual travel allowance of CAD 20,000.
• Fields of Study: Social sciences and humanities.
• Application Deadline: December 2024.

8. Humber College International Entrance Scholarships

Humber College offers partial renewable tuition scholarships for new international students who begin classes in January and September of each year.

• Eligibility: International students applying to study in a graduate program at Humber College.
• Value: Depends on GPA (Grade Point Average)
• Fields of Study: All programs offered by Humber College.
• Application Deadline: September 2024 (fall intake), January 2024 (winter intake).

9. York University International Student Scholarship Program

York University provides scholarships to international students with vital academic records demonstrating financial need.

• Eligibility: International students with an excellent academic record applying to undergraduate programs.
• Value: Ranges from up to CAD 35,000 per year, renewable for three years.
• Fields of Study: All undergraduate programs at York University.
• Application Deadline: The deadline typically falls in February. Check the university’s official website for exact dates for 2025.

Preparation Tips For Canadian Scholarships for International Students

Eligibility criteria:.

• Nationality: Ensure you meet the specified nationality requirements.
• Academic Level: Confirm your academic level aligns with the scholarship’s eligibility.
• Field of Study: Verify if the scholarship covers your chosen field.
• Language Proficiency : If required, prepare for language proficiency tests like PTE Academic, IELTS, or Duolingo.

Prepare a Strong Application:

• Academic Transcripts and Records: Maintain updated academic records and ensure they showcase high performance.
• Letters of Recommendation: Obtain strong letters from professors, mentors, or professionals who know you well.
• Personal Statement or Essay : Write a compelling essay highlighting your achievements, leadership, and how you’ll contribute to your field.

Research and Preparation:

• Canadian Institutions : Identify institutions that align with your academic and career goals.
• Application Procedures: Familiarize yourself with the application process, deadlines, and required documents.

Develop a Study Plan:

• Field of Study: Clearly define your field of study or research area.
• Research Proposal: Draft a clear, concise, and realistic research proposal outlining your objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.

Ready to unlock your full potential and achieve your academic dreams? You can use Gurully to prepare for the English language test.  Our online practice platform offers comprehensive mock tests designed to practice for success. Join the 2M+ students who benefited from Gurully’s effective practice platform. You can prepare for PTE, IELTS, Duolingo & CELPIP.

Conclusion:

With many Canadian scholarships for international students in 2024-2025, pursuing higher education in Canada has never been more accessible. From government-funded programs to university-specific offerings, these scholarships provide invaluable financial support to talented individuals worldwide.

By carefully exploring your options, preparing a solid application, and demonstrating your academic excellence and potential, you can increase your chances of securing a scholarship and embarking on a transformative educational journey in Canada. Remember, the key to success lies in thorough research, meticulous planning, and a commitment to your academic goals.

So, leap and seize the opportunity to study in Canada. With the right scholarship and dedication, you can unlock your full potential, gain valuable experiences, and pave the way for a bright and rewarding future.

Vidhi --> Vidhi Paliwal

Vidhi Paliwal is a passionate content writer with a knack for weaving words into compelling stories that captivate and engage. With a love for creativity and a keen eye for detail, Vidhi brings ideas to life through her writing. When she's not crafting content, you'll find her lost in a good book, watching movies, or exploring the culinary world.

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About the Program

How to Apply

Spotlight on young professionals.

Martin Leboo

"The Young Professionals Program (YPP) is an incredible opportunity where you can test new sectors and experiences. It emphasizes learning as much as you can to bring strong impact."

Nyandeng Gajang

"Being able to work with people from different backgrounds who share the same mission and vision as the World Bank has been incredibly valuable. It’s about working together to improve the lives of others."

Thuong Nguyen

"The YPP’s focus on professional development allowed me to lead initiatives that have a lasting impact on climate policy and finance. It’s gratifying to see the real-world applications of our work."

Accepting applications September 1-30, 2024

Information sessions.

• September 4
• September 5
• September 6

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Consultants

Extended term consultants (etc).

12-month contracts with partial benefits. Benefits include medical insurance, leave, and 15% premium upon termination of the appointment. ETCs are renewable for a life-time cap of three years.

Short Term Consultants (STC)

STCs have a 150-day (or less) contract per fiscal year with no benefits. STCs working in Fragile States are eligible to work up to 190 days per fiscal year. Health insurance plans are made available for independent purchase.

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University of Hawaii Fully Funded Masters Scholarship 2025-2026 | Asian Developement Bank Scholarships ADB

Scholarship Benefits

The ADB-JSP scholarship for a master’s degree at the University of Hawaii at Manoa includes:

• Full coverage of tuition and fees
• Reimbursement of the University of Hawaii at Manoa application fee
• Roundtrip airfare from your home country to Honolulu
• Housing at the East-West Center residence
• A monthly allowance for living expenses
• Money for textbooks
• Health insurance
• Sponsorship for a U.S. visa (J-1 Exchange Visitor).

Eligible Programs and Language Requirements

These master’s degree programs are covered by the ADB-JSP scholarship at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and the East-West Center:

• Business Administration (Global MBA) : Requires TOEFL or IELTS (EWC and UHM) and GMAT (UHM only)
• Economics (MA) : Requires TOEFL, DUOLINGO, or IELTS (EWC and UHM) and GRE (UHM only)
• Geography (MA) : Requires TOEFL, DUOLINGO, or IELTS (EWC and UHM) and GRE (UHM only)
• Natural Resources and Environmental Management (MS) : Requires TOEFL, DUOLINGO, or IELTS (EWC and UHM) and GRE (UHM only)
• Ocean and Resources  Engineering (MS):  Requires TOEFL, DUOLINGO, or IELTS (EWC and UHM) and GRE (UHM only)
• Oceanography  (MS): Requires TOEFL, DUOLINGO, or IELTS (EWC and UHM) and GRE (UHM only)
• Pacific Islands Studies (MA):  Requires TOEFL, DUOLINGO, or IELTS (EWC and UHM)
• Public Administration (MPA) : Requires TOEFL, DUOLINGO, or IELTS (EWC and UHM)
• Sociology (MA) : Requires TOEFL, DUOLINGO, or IELTS (EWC and UHM) and GRE (UHM only)
• Tropical Plant and Soil Sciences (MS) : Requires TOEFL, DUOLINGO, or IELTS (EWC and UHM) and GRE (UHM only)
• Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) : Requires TOEFL, DUOLINGO, or IELTS (EWC and UHM).

Eligible Countries for the ADB Scholarship

You can apply for the ADB Scholarship if you are from one of the following countries: Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Cook Islands, Georgia, India, Indonesia, Fiji, Kazakhstan, Kiribati, Kyrgyz Republic, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nauru, Nepal, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, or Vietnam.

Basic Eligibility and Requirements for the ADB-JSP

• Citizenship and Age:
• You must be a citizen and currently living in an ADB Member country.
• You should be no older than 35 years at the time of application.
• Academic Background:
• You need to have a four-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) at the time of application. This could include:
• A three-year bachelor’s degree plus a one-year master’s degree.
• A two-year bachelor’s degree plus a two-year master’s degree.
• (The equivalency of your degree will be reviewed by the program.)

Work Experience:

• You must have at least two years of full-time professional work experience after completing your degree.
• English Language Proficiency:
• You need to have taken an English proficiency test within the past two years, with minimum scores of:
• TOEFL (paper-based): 550
• TOEFL (computer-based): 213
• TOEFL iBT (internet-based): 79-80
• Duolingo: 95

Required Documents

• Completed application form
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Proof of English proficiency
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Two recommendation letters from academic or professional references
• Statement of purpose explaining your academic and career goals
• Copy of a valid passport
• Medical certificate confirming good health
• Employment certificate showing at least two years of full-time professional work experience
• Recent passport-sized photograph

visit here to apply  

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• Fully Funded Institute of Science and Technology PhD Scholarship 2025

Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) is now accepting applications For The Ph.D. Scholarship Program. If you have already created/submitted an application, you will need to recreate this and submit your documents again – including referee details and references – as all previous data has been lost due to the attack.

The application deadline is 2nd half of October. Early application is strongly encouraged; however, the timing of your application will ultimately not impact your chances of admission. 

ISTA welcomes students with different academic backgrounds who can bring their skills and experiences to the scientific setting.

Students with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biology, chemistry, neuroscience, mathematics, computer science, physics, data science, and scientific computing and related areas are encouraged to apply.

Also Check: Central European University Hungary Scholarships 2025 (Fully Funded)

WHAT ARE THE SELECTION CRITERIA?

The selection committee uses a collection of indicators to evaluate the applicant’s preparedness, motivation, and potential. The following will be considered:

undergraduate performance : overall, with a special focus on relevant field-specific courses

reference letters  provided by professors and senior scientists: one letter from industry is acceptable, but letters from an academic background are given priority; referees are asked to address analytical capabilities, technical proficiency, ability to work independently and motivation/commitment;

statement of purpose : the applicant’s past research experience and motivation for applying to this particular PhD program: is it a good academic fit? how does the program contribute to the candidate’s future career plans?, etc.;

additional relevant skills  (field-specific): demonstrated in, e.g., internships and/or participation in research projects, participation in science Olympiads, programming languages, lab techniques, etc.

transferable skills : e.g. communication skills, experience with working in teams, previous mobility and international experiences, leadership experience as demonstrated in student organizations, etc.;

diversity : e.g. a woman in computer science/math/physics; an applicant who switched fields, etc.;

Required Documents

We ask you to upload the following documents to the application portal:

Statement of purpose   that explains your research experience and your motivation for applying to the ISTA Ph.D. program. It should be 1-2 pages maximum. In your statement, specify up to three research groups you find the most interesting. At this stage, you do not need to contact potential supervisors.

University transcripts and diplomas  of all degree programs and all years you have attended and/or are currently enrolled in (in English and in original language)

Contact information of 3 referees

All documents have to be submitted in English and copies of university transcripts are also in their original language.

Also Check: KAIST International Student Scholarship 2025 in South Korea (Fully Funded)

Fields/Majors:

Financial Coverage:

• Full tuition fee
• Monthly Stipend
• Medical allowance
• Subsidized on-campus Housing.

Also Check: Czech Republic Government Scholarship 2025/26 (Fully Funded)

Selection Timeline

The call for the 2025 PhD program will open in the second half of October 2024. The first review process will be completed in the course of February. Candidates will notified about their status by the beginning of March.

Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews, to take place in March/April Interviews may be conducted either remotely or onsite. Offer letters will go out after the interview period, and candidates can accept or decline the offer of admission by 30 April. The start of the PhD program is uniformly on 15 September.

How Do I Apply?

ISTA processes applications to its Ph.D. program once a year. To  apply , you have to create an online account, which will allow you to track your application through its various stages. We do not accept applications and documents received outside of this system.

The call for the 2025 PhD program will open in the second half of October 2024.

The deadline to submit applications is January 8, 2025, 2.59 PM CET . Referees have to submit their letters of recommendation by January 12, 2025 midnight CET.

Please fill out the form using a web browser on a desktop computer. Web browsers on mobile devices (i.e. Android, iPhone, iPad, etc.) are not supported.

For more information please check the official source .

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Also Check: University of Miami Stamps Scholarship In USA 2025 (Fully Funded)

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