2024 Best Online Doctorate in Strategic Leadership Programs

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A strategic leadership doctorate can be a beneficial degree path for professionals who want to enhance their skills and knowledge in leadership and organizational procedures. This program is designed to prepare individuals for leadership roles in various industries.

Best Online Doctorate in Strategic Leadership Programs

A doctorate in strategic leadership focuses on the study of leadership theory and application in the context of theoretical and real-world issues in business management.

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Professionals may study strategic leadership to advance in their current position or explore career options in other industries.

Online Strategic Leadership Doctorate Programs

Woman taking Online Strategic Leadership Doctorate

Strategic leadership doctoral programs are designed for individuals with a master’s degree who want to enhance their leadership skills. This may be an on-campus or online masters in strategic leadership or a in a related field.

The program allows professionals to conduct research and apply it to real-world issues to improve outcomes. A strategic leadership PhD could help with career advancement, and it can also be a beneficial program if you wish to work in academia and become a scholar in the field.

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Strategic leadership doctoral degrees are multidisciplinary programs. Skills learned in the program can be applied to several industries. Some career paths related to this field of study include:

  • Top executive
  • Human resources manager
  • Training and development manager
  • College or university faculty

It’s common for professionals with a strategic leadership doctoral degree to pursue management or postsecondary faculty positions. This degree path could also be useful for professionals who want to advance in their current position.

Core coursework of a strategic leadership program may include leadership theory and development, organizational strategy, and consulting. Developing key skills in these areas can help professionals carry out daily responsibilities they may have in mid- to senior-level managerial or executive roles.

Here are some common learning outcomes for a strategic leadership PhD program:

  • Formulate and implement organizational procedures to improve a business’s success
  • Apply leadership theories and practical skills to make decisions effectively
  • Plan, organize, and oversee organizational procedures to improve a business
  • Conduct qualitative and quantitative research

Many doctoral programs include a capstone project or dissertation, which allows professionals to contribute to the field of study by applying their research skills to issues and presenting solutions. If you’re interested in taking on a leadership role in your industry, you might find a doctorate in strategic leadership beneficial to your career aspirations.

Common Online Doctor of Strategic Leadership Concentrations

Medical Services Manager discussing with staff

Concentrations are typically offered with a doctorate of strategic leadership to supplement the degree. The following concentrations are common options:

  • Entrepreneurial Leadership. You can focus on making assessments to improve organizational procedures, lead business initiatives, and transform teams.
  • Healthcare Leadership. You can learn how to apply leadership theory to the healthcare industry to build successful teams and systems in an organization.
  • Human Resource Development. This concentration can help professionals in human resources develop and implement effective human resources management procedures and practices.
  • Leadership Coaching. You can specialize in leadership coaching to learn how to develop strategic training and organizational systems to improve performance.
  • Strategic Foresight. This specialization helps you gain advanced knowledge in planning, forecasting, and trend analysis to develop future strategies for various scenarios.

If you want to become an expert in a specific sector, you might choose a concentration that matches your career goals. Some concentrations can be applied to several different industries.

Strategic Leadership Careers & Salaries

Strategic Leadership Careers & Salaries

Strategic leadership doctoral programs might help a professional assume a leadership position in their area of expertise. It could also be a beneficial degree path for individuals who want to enter into academia.

Jobs in academia, management, and administration are common for graduates with a strategic leadership doctorate. Top executives can also be found in almost every industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are some potential career paths related to the study of strategic leadership.

Careers Annual Median Salaries
Chief Executives $179,520
Computer and Information Systems Managers $159,010
Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Managers $133,380
Human Resources Managers $126,230
Training and Development Managers $120,130
Public Relations and Fundraising Managers $119,860
Medical and Health Services Managers $101,340
Administrative Services and Facilities Managers $99,290
General and Operations Managers $97,970
Postsecondary Teachers $79,640

Leadership roles can be found in virtually every industry. Applying leadership theories and principles in these positions can help you manage a business efficiently or successfully lead a team through strategizing and organization.

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Salaries can be dependent upon a number of factors, such as work experience and location. Job availability can also differ depending on where you’re located and the type of industry.

Doctorate in Strategic Leadership Curriculum & Courses

People taking Strategic Leadership Doctorate, in a group work

The curriculum for a doctorate in strategic leadership program concentrates on various theories of leadership and organization. Common core or elective coursework in a PhD in Strategic Leadership online program may include:

  • Leadership Theory: In this course, you can gain a broad understanding of leadership practices and the outcomes that may come as a result of different approaches.
  • Leadership Effective Teams: This course focuses on team-based leadership practices that may be used for different team dynamics to improve efficiency and performance.
  • Organizational Design and Strategy: You can learn about various organizational strategies and designs in different contexts, such as technology and communication.
  • Human Resource Development: Students interested in human resources may take this course to enhance their knowledge on leadership practices used in the human resources field.
  • Leadership Communications: This course examines communication theory that can be applied to leadership roles and academia.
  • Global Leadership: This course is designed to teach professionals about leadership roles and practices from a global standpoint and examines various global issues from this perspective.
  • Consulting Principles: In this course, you can study consulting theories and applications to develop skills to create effective change.
  • Leadership Development: You’ll examine aspects of leadership positions as they relate to yourself, your profession, and others.
  • Coaching and Talent Development: This course examines how to enhance professional development through the use of performance coaching.
  • Decision and Data Analytics: You can learn how to analyze data and make effective decisions to draw conclusions and create a plan of action.

These courses are designed to help professionals gain advanced skills in leadership practices and apply theoretical leadership and organizational knowledge to their field. Programs may offer different coursework depending on the school and degree concentration.

Admissions Requirements

Man preparing requirements for Strategic Leadership Doctorate

Admissions requirements can vary between schools and programs, but these are some common requirements for doctoral degree programs:

  • Master’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Minimum GPA (typically 3.0 or higher)
  • Copy of official transcripts
  • Resume or curriculum vitae

Doctoral degree programs are typically designed for individuals who have already obtained a master’s degree. A resume or curriculum vitae is common for admissions to graduate programs to show what experience you may have. While GRE or GMAT scores are common for admissions as well, a growing number of schools no longer require them.

Accreditation

University offering Strategic Leadership Doctorate

The accreditation status of a school is an important factor to consider when checking out prospective schools and programs. Regional accreditation isn’t required for colleges and universities, but it can affect certain aspects of your education as well as future employment opportunities.

Colleges, universities, and educational programs can be reviewed by accrediting organizations, and they can obtain accreditation if they meet certain criteria. Attending a school with regional accreditation can establish credibility for your education and doctoral credentials.

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Your school’s accreditation status can affect things like federal financial aid eligibility, consideration for employment, and further educational opportunities.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Strategic Leadership Doctorate Financial Aid

Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to help pay for graduate school. Federal financial aid is available to students who are able to demonstrate financial need. Most states also offer some form of financial assistance to those who are eligible.

You can check your eligibility for federal aid by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application is used to determine whether you’re eligible for financial assistance as well as how much aid you may receive. Scholarships are another way for students to receive financial assistance, but many are not income-based.

You can apply to several different scholarships to try and win monetary awards. Scholarships can be awarded by colleges and universities, local organizations, nonprofits, and other related entities.

What Is a Doctor of Strategic Leadership Degree?

People with degree in doctorate of strategic leadership

A Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) degree is a professional doctorate that involves the study of theoretical leadership and organizational methodologies and practices.

Students use research to develop leadership strategies to improve various aspects of a business or organization. It’s a multidisciplinary program that can help you enhance your current skills and gain new perspectives that can be applied to various contexts.

It’s designed to equip professionals with an in-depth understanding of leadership concepts and principles. You may enhance your skills in business management, organization, and research.

What Can I Do with a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership?

Chief Executive providing feedback to some employee

A doctorate in strategic leadership can help prepare individuals to take on various leadership roles in several different industries. Professionals interested in a career in academia may also pursue this degree.

Most graduates seek out management or executive positions. Responsibilities they may have in these positions can widely vary depending on the industry. Your chosen degree concentration may also affect the types of positions and industries you qualify for.

Common duties for top executives include developing and implementing organizational procedures and goals, managing business activities, and analyzing data and various documents to make effective decisions.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Strategic Leadership Doctorate Degree Online?

Woman completing her Strategic Leadership Doctorate Degree Online

It generally takes 3 to 5 years to complete a PhD program with full-time study. This timeline can also depend on the number of credit hours required and how long a student takes to complete their dissertation.

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Completing a dissertation for a PhD can take 1 year or more, depending on the program. If a dissertation isn’t required, a doctoral program may be completed in 3 years with full-time study. If you enroll part-time, it will likely take longer to complete your doctoral program.

What’s the Difference Between a PhD vs. Doctor of Strategic Leadership?

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Strategic Leadership and Doctor of Strategic Leadership are both doctoral degrees, but here are a few differences between the two.

PhD in Strategic Leadership Doctor of Strategic Leadership
  • Focuses on conducting original research
  • Designed for scholars or aspiring academia professionals
  • Focuses on the application of research
  • Designed for using research as a tool to address issues in the field

Professionals who wish to conduct original research and take on an academic position might consider a PhD program. If you want to apply research to address issues in the field and formulate solutions, you might be interested in pursuing a doctorate in strategic leadership.

Is a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership Worth It?

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Yes, a doctorate in strategic leadership is worth it for many students. This type of program can enhance your current knowledge within your field by helping you develop a wide range of leadership skills. It’s considered a multidisciplinary program that can be applied to many different industries.

Professionals who wish to gain a higher position or management role in their field might find a strategic leadership doctorate beneficial. You can also choose a concentration in an on campus or online organizational leadership degree that aligns with your preferred area of study.

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, management occupations overall are expected to experience 8% job growth over the next ten years, which is faster than average.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Strategic Leadership Degree Programs

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

American Public University

American Public University

American Public University offers a Doctor of Strategic Intelligence. Courses in the program cover essential topics like nationalism and identity, statistics, strategic leadership, financial management, and intelligence integration. Incoming students can select one of two start dates each year. On average, students can complete this 58 credit program in 3.5 years.

APUS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Belmont University

Belmont University

Belmont University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Strategic Leadership in Education. This program aims to help leaders in education develop the skills needed to manage organizational, political, fiscal, and institutional challenges. The curriculum consists of 60 credits. Students can select a concentration in Educational Leadership, Management and Entrepreneurship, or Faith and Justice Leadership.

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

City University of Seattle

City University of Seattle

The City University of Seattle offers a Doctor of Education in Leadership. Most classes in the program meet online, though students must complete some in-person elements. The program requires the completion of 90 credit hours.

Students can select a concentration in Organizational Leadership or Higher Education Leadership. Instead of one of these concentrations, students may also pursue a specialized study in topics like entrepreneurship, strategic innovation, or nonprofit leadership.

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

Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University - Chicago

The Doctor of Business Administration program at Concordia University—Chicago offers a concentration in Strategic Leadership and Innovation. Classes cover topics like global business operations, strategic operations, business analysis, and applied research. The program requires the completion of 60 credit hours. Each class is 8 weeks long and meets 100% online.

Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Evangel University

Evangel University

Evangel University offers a Doctor of Strategic Leadership. Many graduates pursue careers in human resources, consulting, politics, entrepreneurship, public service, or healthcare. The program requires the completion of 52 credits, and each class is 7 weeks long. Students can attend most classes online, but the program does require one on-campus residency each fall.

Evangel University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Liberty University

Liberty University

Liberty University offers a Doctor of Strategic Leadership. Potential courses include Risk Management Process and Practice, Leveraging Data for Decision Making, and Leading Effective Teams. The program utilizes a convenient, fully online learning model that is designed with working professionals in mind. Most students can complete the program’s 51 required credits in 2.5 years of full-time attendance.

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

Louisiana State University – Shreveport

Louisiana State University Shreveport

Louisiana State University—Shreveport offers a Doctor of Education in Leadership Studies. Students can specialize in General Leadership Studies, Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management, or Health Communications and Leadership. Full-time students can usually finish their studies in 2 years, while part-time attendees often finish in 3.5 years. The program is housed entirely online.

Louisiana State University – Shreveport is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Marywood University

Marywood University

Marywood University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies. This program is designed to help students develop the skills needed to lead in higher education, the government, nonprofit organizations, and private sectors. The program seeks to offer ultimate flexibility with its online learning format and part-time and full-time attendance models.

Marywood University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

New York University – Steinhardt

New York University

New York University—Steinhardt offers a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation. Students with a passion for transformational leadership and cutting-edge strategies may find an excellent fit in this program. Students can potentially graduate from the program in just 24 months. All classes meet online and are complemented by immersive in-person residencies.

New York University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Oral Roberts University

Oral Roberts University

Oral Roberts University offers a Doctor of Strategic Leadership. The curriculum covers leadership skills and business principles through a unique Christian perspective. The program requires the completion of 48 credit hours, which can potentially be done in just 33 months of full-time attendance. Students can select concentrations in Leadership Coaching, Change Management, or Strategic Foresight.

Oral Roberts University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Our Lady of the Lake University – Houston

Our Lady of the Lake University

Our Lady of the Lake University—Houston offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies. This interdisplinary program covers fundamental concepts like ethics, teambuilding, communication, research methods, and strategy. Most students can complete the program’s 48 required credits in 4 to 5 years depending on their chosen course load. Classes are held at one of two in-person campuses.

Our Lady of the Lake University – Houston is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Regent University

Regent University

Regent University offers a Doctor of Strategic Leadership. The curriculum instructs students in leadership, teamwork, organizational structure, and communication through a Biblical lens. Students attend the program using a blend of online classes and in-person residencies. Many graduates pursue leadership roles in education, nonprofits, government agencies, the military, or executive leadership.

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

Southeastern University

Southeastern University

Southeastern University offers a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership. The curriculum seeks to help students become better at assessing issues, problem-solving, leading, and pursuing opportunities for growth. Students in the program are required to attend classes online and periodic one-week residencies on campus. To graduate, they must complete a final project, a thesis, or a consulting experience.

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

Spalding University

Spalding University

Spalding University offers a Doctor of Education in Leadership. Potential courses include Ethical Leadership, Research Methodology and Problem-Solving, and Leading Innovative and Creative Change. Classes meet entirely online and are taken one at a time. On average, students can complete the program’s 60 required credit hours in 2 years of full-time attendance.

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

Thomas Jefferson University

Thomas Jefferson University

Thomas Jefferson University offers a Doctor of Management in Strategic Leadership. Many graduates obtain positions as leaders, consultants, entrepreneurs, researchers, or educators. The program requires the completion of 45 credits. Students who choose the accelerated, full-time attendance model often finish in 2.5 years, and students who attend part-time have up to 5 years to complete their studies.

Thomas Jefferson University is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

Getting Your Strategic Leadership Doctorate Degree Online

Man taking Strategic Leadership Doctorate Degree Online

A strategic leadership doctorate degree may help professionals advance into a leadership position in their industry. Some schools offer specializations that let you concentrate on a specific field that’s useful to your career goals.

Leadership theory and application is one of the main focuses for most strategic leadership doctoral programs. You may enhance your skills in organization, research, consulting, and coaching. Skills learned in your program can also be carried over into a number of industries.

If you’re ready to take the next in your educational and professional journey, you can begin exploring online strategic leadership doctorate degree programs from accredited schools today.

Ready to start your journey?
Amy Hayes
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Amy holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Old Dominion University, with a minor in English. She previously worked as an educator before starting her career as a writer. Amy spends much of her time researching and writing, with the goal of sharing valuable information with readers.