Doctor of Philosophy

Overview

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

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

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

Program Details

• 4 Year Program
• Available Residentially
• Available Online

Objectives

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

Admissions Requirements

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

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership (PhD) aims to equip scholars and practitioners with advanced capabilities in leadership, an area of significant interest in contemporary society.
The program recognizes the connection between organizational success and effective leadership while acknowledging the ongoing debate surrounding the definition and context-dependent nature of good leadership. It exposes students to advanced bodies of knowledge in leadership attributes and identification and development processes. Graduates gain mastery of leadership theories applicable to various professional contexts and develop advanced research skills for original scholarship through dissertation completion.
• Objectives:
>* Synthesize, evaluate, and contextualize leadership approaches and theories >* Create and conduct original research projects culminating in a written, presented, and orally defended dissertation that contributes to leadership theories and knowledge >* Demonstrate a high level of understanding of leadership theory through practical application at individual and organizational levels >* Analyze social, political, economic, religious, and organizational events in relation to the influence of leaders and leadership approaches >* Integrate scholarly research and leadership skills to apply theory into practice
• Program Description:
>*
• Concentrations:
Students can specialize in specific areas by completing 9 credits of coursework. Concentrations are available in Ministry, Justice, Technology, Politics, International Relations, Sociology, Communications, Business, and Public Administration. Students without a concentration may choose courses from diverse areas. >*
• Dissertation:
Students pursuing a concentration must align their dissertation topic with the chosen concentration. Students without a concentration have flexibility in choosing their dissertation topic.

Carolina University

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Overview:

Carolina University (CU) is a Christ-centered institution located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. With a history spanning over a century, CU has evolved into a modern American university while upholding its traditions and faith-based focus. CU prides itself on its innovative partnerships with schools, organizations, and businesses, contributing to its growth and recognition.

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Services Offered:

CU offers a range of services to its students, including:

Academic Assistance:

The Ashburn Center for Student Success provides academic support programs, tutoring, and a computer lab.

Campus Safety:

CU prioritizes student safety with dedicated campus security services.

Career Development:

The Career Development Center assists students with career exploration, job search, and professional development.

Chapel Services:

CU offers regular chapel services for spiritual growth and reflection.

Housing:

On-campus housing options are available for students.

Technology Services:

CU provides access to technology resources and support for students.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

CU fosters a vibrant and diverse intellectual community. Students can participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, sporting events, and social gatherings. The university emphasizes holistic development, encouraging personal growth alongside academic pursuits.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Christ-Centered Focus:

CU's mission is rooted in Christian values, providing a supportive and faith-based learning environment.

Affordable Excellence:

CU offers high-quality degree programs at an affordable cost, making education accessible to a wider range of students.

Experiential Learning:

CU provides opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships, fieldwork, and real-world projects.

Dedicated Faculty:

CU's faculty members are committed to student success and provide personalized guidance and support.

Strong Community:

CU fosters a close-knit community where students can connect with peers, faculty, and staff.

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Academic Programs:

CU offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:

John Wesley School of Leadership

Moore School of Education

Patterson School of Business

Piedmont Divinity School

School of Computing, Applied Science, and Engineering

School of Social & Behavioral Sciences

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Other:

CU is committed to maintaining a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students. The university adheres to non-discrimination policies based on race, sex, color, age, disability, veteran status, national and ethnic origin, or pregnancy or childbirth.