Organizations across industries and sectors require strong leaders to meet goals, motivate workers and oversee departments. Whether these leaders manage workers at private companies or oversee government departments in the public sector, leadership is key to meeting business forecasts and delivering results.
The highest level of leadership degree is a doctorate, which often appears as a Ph.D. These doctoral programs prepare graduates to pursue leadership and executive roles in many professional fields, often featuring specializations that align with particular industries. Some schools have even pivoted to the virtual space by offering online Ph.D. in leadership programs.
Online degree programs offer greater flexibility in completing assignments and scheduling classes, also extending learners’ access to faraway universities. Our in-depth guide explores the top online Ph.D. in leadership programs, including accreditation and tuition costs.
Our Methodology
Best Online Ph.D. in Leadership Degree Options
Should You Enroll in an Online Ph.D. in Leadership Program?
As online education has grown in recent years, many schools have expanded their distance offerings to include Ph.D. programs in organizational leadership and other related fields. But before applying to an online Ph.D. in leadership program, make sure to take stock of your personal and professional obligations.
Consider your bandwidth and personal learning style as you research Ph.D. in leadership online programs. While online degrees can offer greater freedom in scheduling courses and completing assignments, this flexibility requires you to independently stay on top of coursework with little oversight. Distance programs may also offer fewer opportunities for networking and directly interacting with instructors.
Keep these factors in mind while comparing schools, along with the following considerations.
Accreditation for an Online Ph.D. in Leadership
Institutions of higher education and individual degree programs can voluntarily seek accreditation by third-party organizations through a stringent evaluation process. Accrediting agencies assess schools, departments and programs for their academic rigor, student outcomes and preparation for the workforce.
Institutional Accreditation
Attending an institutionally accredited school qualifies you to receive federal student aid, transfer credits between schools and qualify for certain professional credentials. The following agencies, recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), are the most common institutional accreditors:
- Higher Learning Commission
- Association for Biblical Higher Education
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- New England Commission of Higher Education
However, ED and CHEA approve other agencies to accredit higher education institutions as well. Beulah Heights University, for example, holds institutional accreditation from two faith-based agencies: the Association for Biblical Higher Education Commission on Accreditation and the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools Accreditation Commission. CHEA and ED recognize both organizations.
Programmatic Accreditation
This form of accreditation applies to programs and departments within universities. Accreditors for leadership programs may vary depending on which department houses the program.
For example, organizational leadership programs, usually housed within business departments, may hold accreditation from a business-focused agency, such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, or the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.
Similarly, a doctorate in educational leadership may hold accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
Regardless of the specific field, programmatic accreditation indicates that a department or program has undergone rigorous review for its educational offerings and outcomes and meets industry standards.
How To Find the Right Online Ph.D. in Leadership for You
Consider Your Future Goals
At this point in your education journey, you likely have a strong grasp on your professional goals. Pursuing a Ph.D. requires a significant investment of time, energy and finances, often as the culmination of many years spent in higher education. To find the right online Ph.D. in leadership, consider your professional aspirations.
For example, if you want to work in the business world as an executive or in another managerial role, an organizational leadership Ph.D. online program may offer the best pathway. Similarly, if you want to craft school-wide policies for colleges and universities, a concentration in higher education administration may be an ideal option. Allow your goals to guide your program choice.
Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options
Attending higher education at any level requires a serious financial investment. Some Ph.D. programs are “funded,” meaning the school covers tuition in exchange for an assistantship or other related work program, often with a monthly stipend. On average, the schools in this list charge about $48,500 in total tuition.
To help lower your overall financial burden and focus on your studies, look to student aid. File a FAFSA to learn which financial aid sources you qualify for; these may include grad PLUS loans and unsubsidized loans. But before relying on loans, which require repayment, seek out scholarships and grants, which do not.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Online Ph.D. in Leadership Programs
How long does it take to get a Ph.D. in leadership?
Earning a Ph.D. in leadership typically takes three to seven years. You will need about three to four years for coursework and several more to complete research and/or dissertation requirements. However, degree timelines for doctoral programs vary widely.
Can you teach with a Ph.D. in leadership?
Yes, you can teach college courses with a Ph.D. in leadership. However, to teach in public elementary, middle or high schools, you’ll need a state teaching license.
Why get a doctorate in organizational leadership?
A doctorate in organizational leadership is the highest level of degree in the field. Earning this degree demonstrates your mastery of the field and allows you to pursue executive-level roles across industries, including in education administration.