University Establishes New Doctor of Education in Leadership Degree to Prepare Candidates for Leadership Roles in a Range of Careers


William Paterson University is launching a multidisciplinary doctor of education in leadership degree that will prepare candidates for executive leadership roles in a variety of career settings, including but not limited to P-12 education, higher education, social services, healthcare, nonprofit and for-profit business enterprises, faith-based organizations and government.

The three-year, 55-credit doctor of leadership program  begins in July 2021; applications must be submitted by February 1 to be considered for admission. Designed for novice and experienced leaders alike, the program is especially suitable for working professionals, with limited required in-person attendance and most work conducted online. 

“This new doctoral degree provides a valuable, and integrated, way of engaging leaders from multiple organizational settings,” says Joshua Powers, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. “Societal needs transcend sectors, and leaders prepared to address problems in that way are critical.”

Through practical, real work simulations and experiences, doctoral candidates will learn to act with vision and purpose to lead and transform organizations. The program will prepare candidates to be scholars and practitioners who can solve practical, everyday problems and provide executive leadership in a broad spectrum of disciplines and settings.

Candidates will take two courses in each fall and spring semester and complete a three-day residency requirement during the summer. Courses in the fall and spring semesters will meet in person one Saturday a month. All other work is completed online.

The program is built on a research-based, theoretical foundation to develop the whole person as a leader. It will be taught by expert faculty from the College of Education and a multidisciplinary team of instructors throughout the University. A unique feature of the program is the Leader Learner Community concept, where small groups of students with similar interests meet regularly with a faculty mentor to further develop their professional acumen and make important career connections.

For information or to apply, click here

11/30/20