The application deadline for the second class of the University of Central Arkansas’s doctoral program in Leadership Studies is March 1.
The interdisciplinary doctor of philosophy in the field of leadership is the only degree program of its kind in Arkansas and is unique to the region. The curriculum focuses on those skills that are most relevant to today’s leaders, including communications, decision-making, ethics and change.
The program provides opportunities for practicing professionals to benefit from scholarly study, while those preparing for academic pursuits such as research, teaching or administration gain an understanding of the world of practice.
The degree, which may be completed as a part time or full time student, includes a minimum of 60 semester hours beyond the master’s degree. Along with the leadership core of 18 semester hours, the program will include a research core of 15 hours.
Students take an additional 15 hours of courses related to either education or government/non-profit leadership. The dissertation phase accounts for the final 12 hours of the program. Faculty members from a variety of academic disciplines teach the broad-based curriculum.
UCA welcomed the inaugural class of 17 students in fall 2011.
“The program’s first cadre of students is impressive. They truly embody an interdisciplinary vision for leadership studies, representing education, nonprofit, and government contexts. Mid-career professionals who wish to enhance their leadership impact are invited to apply” said Dr. Amy H. Amy, interim director of the Leadership Studies Doctoral Program.
The doctoral program develops scholar leaders who are able to apply the art and science of leadership for innovative problem-solving in organization.
“The ‘scholar leaders’ will understand their roles in conserving, expanding and transforming the discipline of leadership studies and their responsibilities for informing the world of practice,” said Dr. Elaine McNiece, associate vice provost and dean of Graduate Studies at UCA.
Acceptance into the program is competitive. Application requirements and program information can be found at uca.edu/phdleadership or call the UCA Graduate School office at (501) 450-3124.
