Ph.D. program in leadership expanded with new concentrations in strategic innovation, policy
Kim Chaudoin |
Lipscomb University is expanding its Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Leadership program to include two new concentrations in either strategic innovation or policy, providing professionals across industries with the tools to lead effectively in times of rapid change and increasing complexity.
The Ph.D. in Leadership is an interdisciplinary degree designed for experienced professionals seeking to elevate their leadership capacity through rigorous academic study and applied research. The goal of this program is to equip professionals to pursue challenging, high-level responsibilities requiring advanced knowledge, training and rigor, and to do so with the highest levels of integrity, ethical understanding and behavior. As students are able to select one of these two new concentrations, it broadens the program’s relevance and equips them to make meaningful contributions in both organizational and public policy arenas.
“These new concentrations reflect the evolving needs of today’s leaders,” said Trace Hebert, associate provost for research and graduate studies. “Whether you are leading an organization through transformation or helping shape policy that impacts communities, this program provides the research foundation and practical insight needed to lead with vision and integrity.”
Students may select one of the following concentrations:
The strategic innovation concentration prepares students to lead organizational transformation by exploring topics such as entrepreneurship, innovation, strategic planning, organizational turnaround and the integration of technology and artificial intelligence into leadership practices. Students will learn how to conceptualize and implement creative solutions to real-world problems across sectors.
The policy concentration offers a robust foundation in public policy theory, research and implementation. Students will explore how policies are developed and adopted, and will gain experience in policy analysis, evidence-based problem solving and strategic advocacy.
The Ph.D. program is offered in a hybrid format, allowing students to participate from anywhere across the country. Some courses meet in person with the option to attend via Zoom, while others are delivered online, primarily in asynchronous eight-week sessions with optional synchronous components. This flexibility makes the program accessible to working professionals balancing full-time careers with advanced study.
The curriculum includes foundational courses in global leadership, qualitative and quantitative research, and organizational theory. Students will also complete specialized coursework within their chosen concentration and engage in applied research leading to a dissertation.
Learn more about Lipscomb University’s Ph.D. in Leadership and explore the new concentrations.