Leadership
Doctor of Philosophy
Description
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Leadership degree is multidisciplinary in scope, and online in delivery, with one required on-campus residency in the first year. It is designed for students seeking an advanced degree leading to organizational leadership positions. It integrates research, theory and practice, and provides a breadth of knowledge across the leadership field with in-depth research and study in pivotal areas. Critical thinking, scholarly research, writing, and learning occur within a biblical Christian worldview that supports the entire program. Three tracks are available for students to choose an area of specialty: Organizational Management, Ministry Administration, and Educational Administration.
Program Learning Outcomes
- 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
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized college or university
- An accredited master's degree or equivalent from a recognized college or university
- GPA of 3.0 or higher
- An autobiographical essay
- A current résumé
- Official transcripts from all previously attended schools
- Completed application with Piedmont International University
Graduation Requirements
What is the maximum time limit to complete the program?
Students have a maximum of seven years to complete their Ph.D. in Leadership.
What is the minimum number of hours to be completed through Piedmont?
Students must complete a minimum of 45 semester credit hours.
Can I transfer my credits from another institution?
Yes. Please note that transfer credits are not to exceed 25%, or 15 semester hours, of degree-level courses, and all transfer credits must have a grade of B or higher.
Is advanced standing available?
No advanced standing is available.
What is the length of the Ph.D. in Leadership program?
The program lasts 60 semester hours.
What are the graduation requirements?
Students will graduate upon fulfilling the following requirements: completing all prescribed courses (including transfer credits) with a minimum overall GPA of 3.00 and no more than one C. Students must complete all coursework, pass the written comprehensive examination, and successfully write, present, and defend their dissertation.