EdD in Organizational Leadership

The Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Leadership is a doctoral program in the Department of Leadership Studies at USD, an internationally recognized institution. This doctoral program requires a completion of 48 units, and encompasses a dynamic range of courses with an emphasis on self, organization, and system. This rigorous and comprehensive practitioner-scholar program is designed for working professionals from diverse professional backgrounds (corporations, non-profits, education, government, healthcare, military, self-employed, etc.) who seek to promote inclusion, sustainability and social responsibility in organizations while also advancing their own careers and personal development. 

The experience spans over a period of three years based on a cohort model, wherein participants attend one day and one evening per month and complete two residencies (outside of the United States). The program culminates in a dissertation and presenting findings to the academic and professional community. Courses are offered synchronously online, with minor asynchronous components. The program is built around the core concepts of leadership, self-awareness, organizational development, and systemic change. Students in the program will engage in a range of coursework, research, and practical experiences aimed at developing the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to lead complex organizations and systems effectively. 

Graduates of the program will be well-prepared to assume leadership positions in a range of organizations and settings, including businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, and educational institutions. They will have the contemporary knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to lead complex organizations and to create positive and lasting impact.

Program of Study

The program is offered in a cohort model. The cohort proceeds through the predetermined 48 unit program over a three year span.  

General Regulations

1. Academic Performance Requirements
   Doctoral students are required to maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average in their coursework throughout the program.

2. Master’s in Organizational Leadership
   After 25 months of being in the program, and the completion of the required 33 units, students will receive a Masters Degree in Organizational Leadership.

3. Transfer of Credit
   Transfer credit is not allowed in this program.  All EdD courses must be completed in the proposed sequence at USD.

4. Advancement to Candidacy Process
   To advance to candidacy, students must complete the required 33 units, including all six Collaborative Learning Modules and have submitted written permission from an official representing the organization central to their study. 

5. Exit Requirements
   The exit requirements entail: successful completion of all course work, successful written dissertation and presentation to both academic and professional communities.

6. Time Limit
   This program is designed to be completed in three years.  When extenuating circumstances arise, students may remain enrolled for a maximum of five years from the first term of enrollment.

Additional Admission Requirements

See the Admission page for basic admission requirements.