online phd programs in coaching

5 Best Grad Schools with Online Doctorate in Coaching

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Updated: March 14, 2024 , Reading time: 17 minutes

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The Doctorate in Coaching, unlike similar leadership degrees, is a relatively new degree program. Online programs for this doctorate are rare.

An online doctoral degree in coaching is designed for those who want to pursue high-level coaching skills and knowledge to provide executive coaching for professional and organizational success.

Graduates of these programs can work as executive coaches, consultants for leadership development, coach educators, researchers, organizational management experts, organizational leadership specialists, or consultants across various industries.

The Labor Statistics data says top business professional executives are expected to grow 3 percent from 2022 to 2032 ; this data, however, may not guarantee actual job growth and may not reflect local employment situations.

The study of coaching theories, practices, and research methods is the main focus of a doctorate in coaching, an advanced academic degree. A doctorate in coaching often entails a combination of core courses, research courses, and a doctoral dissertation or capstone project, though the particular structure and content may vary depending on the university offering the program.

Doctoral students often explore courses such as coaching theories and models, coaching psychology, leadership coaching, strategic leadership, human resource management, coaching ethics, research techniques, and data analysis.

Quick audio summary:

Methodology

The Best Online Doctorate in Coaching programs on our list were selected because of the top-quality quality academics they are known to deliver! Each doctoral program and graduate school is a standout with these features:

• Delivered as a hybrid program, allowing adult students maximum flexibility to complete a doctoral program that works around their schedule,
• Employs a curriculum that helps doctoral students develop skills necessary for career growth and leadership coaching,
• Provide online students with several student support services dedicated to students’ success,
• Offers financial aid opportunities to reduce total program costs,
• Features a faculty of experts with years of experience in their respective coaching fields, 
• Received regional accreditation to ensure the degree’s value in the job market.

Please look at our Methodology to learn about our ranking process.

Top 5 Online Doctoral Programs in Coaching

Liberty university.

Doctorate in Management – Executive Coaching Program

Liberty University’s Doctorate in Management offers several emphases, including an online Executive Coaching concentration designed for professionals who want to obtain superior coaching, leadership, and management knowledge and abilities.

Focusing on executive-level professionals, this concentration is primarily completed online, giving working individuals the freedom to further their education while still advancing their jobs. The curriculum combines theoretical underpinnings, research methodology, and real-world executive coaching applications.

Organizational behavior, leadership theory, strategic management, coaching techniques, and coaching ethics are just a few subjects that students in this doctoral program may anticipate studying. The curriculum seeks to give students a solid grasp of coaching ideas and techniques while emphasizing the difficulties and dynamics of executives and senior leaders. Students may have the chance to participate in case studies, research projects, and practical coaching experiences throughout the curriculum.

The dissertation or doctoral thesis students complete as part of Liberty University’s doctorate in management with an emphasis on executive coaching often serves as the program’s capstone. As a result, they can contribute to the study of and practice of coaching. Graduates have various job options after graduation, such as executive coaching roles in corporate settings, consultancy, leadership development, or academic opportunities in coaching instruction and research.

Regent University

Doctor of Strategic Leadership in Leadership Coaching

Students who want to study a doctoral degree program in a hybrid learning format can opt for Regent University’s Doctor of Strategic Leadership in Leadership Coaching, a 51-credit hour program conducted online with residency.

This program aims to train students in coaching and mentoring skills while preparing them for leadership positions in various industries. The program’s curriculum strongly emphasizes building coaching and leadership abilities within the framework of organizational change and strategy.

Students study subjects including history & theory, skills & assessments, organizational initiatives, and advanced coaching. These courses are designed to help you become an executive coach for various organizations.

Graduates will develop and implement a coaching style of management for enhanced job performance in soft skill development and be able to evaluate an organization’s capacity to create innovative learning environments with rising effectiveness and efficiency.

Students will research leadership coaching as part of the Doctor of Strategic Leadership curriculum. They will get the chance to enhance their critical thinking skills, put coaching principles to use in practical situations, develop coaching relationships with clients, and partake in supervised coaching activities.

Program graduates can choose from various employment choices; they might work as executive coaches for nonprofits, businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and the military.

Walden University

PhD in Industrial Organizational Psychology in Evidence-Based Coaching

An Evidence-Based Coaching concentration is offered at Walden University through their Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, which focuses on applying psychological principles and research to improve workplace dynamics, organizational behavior, and employee performance.

The doctoral program offers two tracks. The first track is designed for applicants with a master’s degree in I/O psychology, while Track II is for those entering with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in non-IO-related fields.

Students gain an in-depth understanding of workplace individual, group, and organizational behavior, advanced research design and analytical skills, and expertise in applying evidence-based I/O practices in various organizational settings.

The Evidence-Based Coaching concentration produces graduates to fill in the gap of the growing demand for certified professional coaches in multiple fields, including business administration, government organizations, educational institutions, health and wellness, and corporations.

Courses of the specialization include leadership coaching and theories, leadership development, practices and application, and coaching skills.

Students will be qualified to apply for the credential in Evidence-Based Coaching and take the Board Certified Coach examination after completing the program, which includes 30 hours of coaching practice interwoven into Walden’s distinctive virtual residency.

Before graduating and submitting their application for the Board Certified Coach examination, students who have completed the program and the Evidence-Based Coaching prerequisites should apply for the Evidence-Based Coaching certificate.

West Virginia University

PhD and EdD majoring in Coaching and Teaching Studies

As the only state in Virginia offering online coaching degrees, West Virginia University offers one of the best doctorate majors in Coaching and Teaching Studies. Students interested in academic, governmental, non-profit, and industrial-organizational research should pursue the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) track.

On the other hand, those interested in employment as organizational leaders in various school, university, and community-based contexts should enroll in the Doctor of Education (EdD) track. The Ph.D. and EdD tracks are both prestigious programs; the only difference is their focus.

Students in either the Ph.D. or EdD track must complete four benchmarks: Qualifying Exam, Comprehensive Exam, Dissertation Proposal, and Dissertation Defense. PhD candidates, however, must also submit three peer-reviewed articles.

All students must pass the written and oral qualifying exams during the first two semesters of the program. A rigorous exam chosen by the candidate’s doctoral committee, the dissertation proposal, and a successful dissertation defense are additional requirements for all candidates.

Graduate students can collaborate with academics on various projects, gain data-collecting experience, write empirical or practitioner-focused research papers, or participate in program assessment and/or evaluation in addition to conducting their own dissertation research. Adapted Physical Education/Activity and Coaching Leadership are two of the four research and academic opportunities offered by WVU.

Fielding Graduate University

Doctoral Concentration in Coaching

Part of Fielding Graduate University’s larger degree in Human Development includes a doctorate focus in coaching. The coaching program at FGU, which has a reputation for emphasizing applied and interdisciplinary research, trains students to work as advanced practitioners and scholar-practitioners in the coaching industry.

The curriculum strongly emphasizes a reflective and experiential method of learning wherein students are encouraged to combine theory with practice, and they frequently get the chance to practice coaching, work with peers, and get criticism and guidance from seasoned coaches.

The doctoral emphasis in coaching includes a challenging curriculum, in-depth research, and real-world experience to advance students’ coaching abilities and understanding. Coaching theory, methodology, ethics, supervision, and advanced themes in coaching practice are covered in the program’s courses.

Upon graduation, students can pursue a professional coaching career in various organizations, from nonprofits and international business organizations to governmental and educational institutions.

Furthermore, students in the coaching doctoral concentration can pursue credits for a Certificate in Evidence-Based Coaching, a Level 2 ICF-accredited coaching education provider.

This certification offers a specific training course focusing on coaching techniques founded on empirical research and evidence-based methods. It gives coaches the information, abilities, and resources they need to integrate scientific research and data into their coaching practice successfully.

Common Coursework of Online Doctorates in Coaching Programs

Here are some typical courses you might find in these programs, while the specific courses offered in online doctorates in coaching may vary across different institutions:

• Coaching Theories and Models

An overview of numerous coaching ideas, models, and methodologies is provided in this course. It investigates the fundamental concepts and ideas that guide coaching practice.

• Coaching Supervision

This course emphasizes how coaching supervision can improve the efficacy and standard of coaching practice. It examines various supervision models, reflective practice methods, and the ethical ramifications of leadership.

• Coaching Psychology

This course goes deeper into the psychological components of coaching, examining issues including motivation, emotional intelligence, individual variations, and cognitive and behavioral processes. It looks at how psychological concepts can improve coaching techniques.

• Coaching for Diversity and Inclusion

This course explores how coaching may advance inclusion, equity, and diversity. It discusses cultural competence, prejudice awareness, inclusivity in coaching practice, and techniques for coaching clients from varied backgrounds.

• Research Methods in Coaching

This course focuses on coaching-relevant research approaches and techniques. Research design, data collecting and analysis, qualitative and quantitative research techniques, and ethical coaching research issues are covered.

• Leadership Coaching

The focus of this course is coaching within the framework of leadership development. It investigates how coaching can support leadership effectiveness and development while examining leadership theories, competencies, and problems.

• Organizational Coaching

This course examines coaching in corporate environments. It looks at issues including coaching in teams, coaching for managing change, organizational culture, and the function of coaching in raising productivity and performance.

• Ethics and Professional Practice in Coaching

The ethical issues and professional standards in coaching are covered in this course. It addresses issues including discretion, limitations, dual relationships, and frameworks for making ethical decisions.

• Professional Development and Marketing in Coaching

The subjects covered in this course involve starting and running a coaching business. It discusses coaching professionals’ ongoing professional development, marketing tactics, client acquisition, and professional branding.

• Coaching Practicum/Internship

A practicum or internship is a common feature of online coaching doctoral programs. This gives students supervised real-world coaching experience, allowing them to use their coaching knowledge and abilities.

Career Opportunities for Doctorate in Coaching Graduates

A doctorate in coaching opens up a wide range of professional options in coaching and related fields. Following are a few possible job possibilities for somebody with a doctorate in coaching:

Executive Coach

With a doctorate, you can work as an executive coach, supporting senior-level executives with their leadership development and coaching them one-on-one. Executive coaches frequently assist clients in developing their leadership abilities, overcoming organizational obstacles, and achieving their career goals.

Higher Education Educator/Professor

You can pursue a career in academics as a professor or coach if you have a degree. You can build coaching curricula, mentor prospective coaches, and instruct coaching courses. This position frequently entails researching and writing scholarly articles in the coaching industry.

Leadership Development Consultant

To create and conduct leadership development programs, many firms use coaching specialists. You can design coaching solutions, organize workshops and training sessions, and assist businesses in identifying and developing their future leaders.

Leadership Consultant

Leadership consultants can advise organizations on organizational performance, personnel management, and leadership development techniques. Your coaching knowledge will strengthen your capacity to assist organizations in recognizing and developing leadership talent.

Organizational Coach

Organizations frequently use coaching to improve team performance, promote a coaching culture, and effect organizational change. As a corporate coach, you can support organizational development goals by working with teams, departments, or entire companies.

Professional Association Leadership

Within professional coaching associations, you can assume leadership positions, assisting in the growth and advancement of the coaching profession. This could entail participating in task teams, committees, or boards while establishing moral and ethical norms.

Program Developer

As a program developer, you can design coaching interventions and programs suited to certain organizational requirements. This includes developing and putting coaching initiatives into practice, identifying coaching needs, and gauging how coaching activities affect individual and organizational outcomes.

Coaching Researcher

You can undertake research in the coaching profession with the help of a doctorate in coaching. Research on coaching effectiveness, coaching approaches, or related issues can be done as a career in coaching. The results of your study may help to advance coaching as a profession.

Thought Leader/Author

You can position yourself as a thought leader in the coaching industry with a doctorate. You can contribute to trade publications and write books, articles, or blog posts. Speaking engagements, workshops, and webinars are excellent ways to share your knowledge and become known as an expert in coaching.

Executive Coaching vs. Leadership Coaching

The coaching industry has two distinct but closely linked subfields: executive coaching and leadership coaching. While the two have similarities, they differ in many subtleties and areas of interest. 

Here are critical points of their differences: 

Targeted Audience

• Senior-level executives, including CEOs, C-suite executives, and high-level managers, are the primary audience for executive coaching.
• Individuals at different levels of leadership, such as mid-level managers, emerging leaders, and high-potential employees, might benefit from leadership coaching.
• Enhancing leadership effectiveness, executive presence, strategic thinking, decision-making, and overall organizational performance are the main goals of executive coaching. It frequently entails addressing particular difficulties experienced by executives and assisting them in achieving their professional objectives.
• Leadership coaching focuses on establishing leadership competencies at various organizational levels, developing leadership abilities, expanding self-awareness, and improving interpersonal dynamics and communication.
• Executive coaching frequently occurs in the context of the executive’s position and duties inside the company. The coach may collaborate closely with the executive’s peers, direct reports, and stakeholders to encourage growth and development.
• Individual leaders or entire leadership teams may receive coaching in leadership. It attempts to increase leadership skills and encourage collaboration to boost team dynamics and organizational performance.
• The goal of executive coaching is to strengthen the leadership skills of senior executives to have a strategic organizational influence. It supports the executive’s capacity to lead and direct the organization successfully and is in line with the company’s strategic goals.
• Leadership coaching can address various leadership difficulties, including team building, conflict resolution, change management, and increasing leadership presence.

Leadership coaching has a wider application and can target leaders at all organizational levels, unlike executive coaching, which is typically more confined to top-level executives and has a strategic focus on organizational impact.

The distinctions between executive and leadership coaching might change depending on how various coaching practitioners or organizations define and utilize these terminologies. The particular demands and circumstances of the clients and organizations engaged may also impact the focus and breadth of coaching engagements.

Coaching Certifications

Coaching certifications are credentials that attest to a coach’s proficiency in coaching. They demonstrate a coach’s formal education and dedication to moral principles. Numerous coaching organizations and organizations provide several reputable coaching credentials. Here are a few well-known coaching credentials:

International Coach Federation ( ICF ) Credentials

The organization called International Coach Federation (ICF) offers three levels of credentials:

• Associate Certified Coach (ACC)
• Professional Certified Coach (PCC)
• Master Certified Coach (MCC)

European Mentoring and Coaching Council ( EMCC ) Credentials

Various levels of coaching credentials are available from the EMCC, including:

• Foundation Level
• Practitioner Level
• Senior Practitioner Level
• Master Practitioner Level
• European Individual Accreditation (EIA)

Certified Professional Coach ( CPC )

The CPC certificate, provided by the Professional Coach Certification Board (PCCB), is intended to show a coach’s proficiency and adherence to professional standards.

Board Certified Coach ( BCC )

The BCC credential, managed by the Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE), is intended for coaches specializing in executive, business, or personal coaching.

Certified Executive Coach ( CEC )

The Center for Executive Coaching provides the CEC credential for coaches working with top leaders and executives.

The CPC credential, provided by the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC), certifies a coach’s successful completion of an extensive coaching training course.

Certified Life Coach ( CLC )

The World Coach Institute (WCI) offers the Certified LifeCoach credential, which focuses on coaching for leadership development.

Every coaching certification program has its requirements, which may include particular training hours, coaching experience, mentor coaching, and adherence to ethical standards. This is vital to keep in mind. The certifying bodies also have their own evaluation procedures and may ask applicants to pass tests, give references from previous clients, and submit coaching recordings for review.

Coaching vs. Consulting

Both consulting and coaching are professions that support people or organizations in reaching their objectives and raising performance. Although there may be some overlap, the two have different methodologies and different focuses. 

• Focus:  Coaching emphasizes professional or personal development, enabling people to develop their own answers. Problem-solving and offering knowledgeable counsel or solutions are the main goals of consulting.
• Approach:  Coaching takes a client-centered, non-directive approach that prioritizes self-discovery. Consultations are expert-driven, directive processes that depend on the consultant’s knowledge.
• Relationship:  Through coaching, the coach and client form a helpful, cooperative collaboration. A client-consultant relationship involves consulting when the consultant offers knowledge and solutions.
• Outcome:  Coaching enhances the client’s abilities, self-awareness, and personal development. Delivering particular advice, approaches, or solutions to the client’s problems is the goal of consulting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a great coach .

Inspiring, educating, guiding, supporting, and joining the client on their professional journey of self-discovery are all qualities of a successful coach. 

How important is coaching in career development?

Career growth can benefit greatly from coaching, providing individuals looking to advance and thrive in their careers with helpful assistance, direction, and resources. A coach can assist people in being more aware of their values, areas of interest, strengths, and career goals. 

What are the admission requirements for a coaching doctoral program?

A master’s degree in a relevant subject, such as coaching, psychology, leadership, or organizational development, is the most common admissions requirement for coaching doctorates. Professional coaching experience, letters of recommendation, a statement of intent, and academic transcripts will also be required.

What is the duration of a Doctorate in Coaching program?

A Doctorate in Coaching program’s length varies. However, a doctoral degree can usually be earned after 3 to 5 years of full-time study. 

Key Takeaways

• Doctorates in coaching are terminal degrees that specialize in studying coaching theory, research, and practice.
• It is designed for those looking to become coaching experts, enhance their professions in coaching-related fields, or contribute to coaching research and scholarship.
• Graduates with a doctorate in coaching might go in several different directions; they can serve as organizational coaches, executive coaches, leadership development consultants, professors or educators in coaching, researchers in coaching, or program developers.

Additional Resources:

• Best Grad Schools with Online Doctorate in Sports Management
• Best Grad Schools with Online Doctorate in Training and Development
• Best Grad Schools with Online Doctorate in Educational Administration

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International University of Professional Studies

Students and professionals who select our Professional Coaching & Human Development doctoral program will be on the cutting edge as the profession of coaching moves to university degree status, and will have the opportunity to learn from some of the best known pioneers of this evolving field. Designed with the busy professional in mind, our program provides a great deal of flexibility in training opportunities, one-on-one mentoring, and distance learning. Those who earn their Ph.D. in our Professional Coaching & Human Development program will not only prepare themselves to become the finest of coaches, but will gain a competitive advantage as this burgeoning field continues to grow.

Professional Coaching and Human Development

Want to be a Professional Coach?

IUPS presents this FREE introductory video on professional coaching, with well-respected mentor and coaching instructor,  Lloyd Thomas, PhD , author of: 

Total Life Coaching: 50+ Life Lessons, Skills, and Techniques to Enhance Your Practice . . . and Your Life .   

Lloyd Thomas IUPS 1080 HD 1.79GB

Masters Program:  45 Credits (30 Credits in Required Courses, 15 Credits in Electives​)

Doctorate Program:  90 Credits (50 Credits in Required Courses, 40 Credits in Electives)

Combined Masters/Doctorate Program:  120 Credits (50 Credits in Required Courses, 70 Credits in Electives)

Course credits toward your degree may be earned in the following ways:

Many students earn course credits by having their mentor assign books to read on the course topic, and writing papers or completing projects that demonstrate their understanding of the assigned material. Credits can also be obtained by attending conferences, workshops, retreats, or online courses from established academic institutions.  Students may request and submit for IUPS approval (through their mentors), permission to earn credits through external programs.  Students also have the opportunity to assist in designing their own electives, allowing for education customization.

A key criteria for earning credits is for students to demonstrate how learning this subject matter impacts their lives personally and professionally. Integration of course material is of paramount importance at IUPS. 

Course #     Credits      Required Core Courses for Masters

PCH 500          3         The Essential Foundation of Coaching PCH 501          3         Theories of Counseling PCH 502          3          Human Development & Personality Theory PCH 507          3          The Spiritual Dimension of Coaching PCH 508          2          Awareness of Cross-Cultural Issues PCH 509          2          Psychopathology PCH 570          2          Legal and Ethical Issues in Coaching PCH 580          2          Practicum/Fieldwork PCH 590        10          Thesis

Course#     Credits     Required Core Courses for Doctorates

PCH 600          5        The Essential Foundation of Coaching PCH 601          5        Theories of Counseling PCH 602          5        Human Development & Personality Theory PCH 607          5        The Spiritual Dimension of Coaching PCH 608          3        Awareness of Cross-Cultural Issues PCH 609          2        Psychopathology PCH 670          2        Legal and Ethical Issues in Coaching PCH 675          3        Research Methods in Coaching PCH 680          5        Practicum/Fieldwork PCH 690        15        Dissertation Research Project

Below are examples of electives that one may consider taking as part of this degree program. Students, in concert with their mentors shall determine which electives are most relevant to their educational aspirations.

Course #       Credits       Courses

PCH 610        1 - 5        Advanced Career Coaching Skills: The Life Purpose Process PCH 612        1 - 5        Advanced Personality Theory

PCH 613        1 - 5        Consciousness Studies PCH 614        1 - 5        Alignment and Embodiment of Values and Ethics PCH 615        1 - 5        Body-Centered Psychotherapy PCH 616        1 - 5        Clinical Neuropsychology PCH 617        1 - 5        Coaching the Mid-life Transition PCH 619        1 - 5        Coaching with the Enneagram PCH 620        1 - 5        Communication & Team Building PCH 621        1 - 5        Community Psychology PCH 622        1 - 5        Conflict Resolution PCH 623        1 - 5        Conscious Relationships PCH 624        1 - 5        Consulting Skills PCH 625        1 - 5        Cross-Cultural Coaching PCH 626        1 - 5        Death and Dying – Grief and Loss PCH 627        1 - 5        Eco-Psychology PCH 628        1 - 5        EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) Certification PCH 633        1 - 5        Family and Marital Therapy PCH 634        1 - 5        Family Business Coaching PCH 635        1 - 5        Gestalt Therapy PCH 636        1 - 5        Human Sexuality Counseling PCH 637        1 - 5        Hypnotherapy Certification PCH 638        1 - 5        Introduction To Adult Developmental Coaching PCH 639        1 - 5        Introduction To Coaching the Entrepreneur and the Small Business PCH 640        1 - 5        Introduction To Executive Coaching and Development PCH 642        1 - 5        Introduction To Transpersonal Coaching PCH 643        1 - 5        Intuition in Business PCH 645        1 - 5        Organizational Psychology PCH 646        1 - 5        Strategies for Transformation PCH 647        1 - 5        Stress Management PCH 750        1 - 5        Workshops, Retreats, Conferences

PCH 751        1 - 5        NLP ( Neuro-L inguistic P rogramming) Coaching

PCH 752        1 - 5        Advanced NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming)

Professional Coaching & Human Development Course Descriptions 

(Please note: All Doctoral coursework (600 courses) involve more advanced research and in-depth study.)

REQUIRED CORE COURSES

PCH 500/600   The Essential Foundation of Coaching This comprehensive and foundational course covers a wide range of competencies and best practices in coaching methods and models.   PCH 501/601   Theories of Counseling This course introduces students to the underlying theories of counseling for the purpose of deepening a coach's capacity to work with clients. The bulk of the course focuses on the acquisition of basic helping skills necessary for working with clients, such as: basic response skills, relationship-building, empathic listening, and sensitivity.   PCH 502/602   Human Development & Personality Theory The processes and significant transition points in child, adolescent, and adult development are considered in this course and can be of immeasurable assistance  when coaching clients. This course also examines various theories and research focusing on intrinsic motivation, emotions, locus of control, pro-social behavior, self-concept, and personality change.   PCH 507/607   The Spiritual Dimension of Coaching This course offers an experiential exploration into the positive impact of letting go of the limiting, suffering and fear-based state of being completely identified with the mind, and what lies beyond that contracted state. Students are guided toward the opportunity of having a direct experience of being truly present — in the Now, and how being present can transform one’s experience of life. In addition, the course addresses the essentials of self-inquiry, covering the teachings of some of today’s finest consciousness teachers, including Eckhart Tolle, Byron Katie and more.   PCH 508/608   Awareness of Cross-Cultural Issues This course acquaints students with the importance of taking into account and respecting the individual client's cultural experience. Topics covered include the psychological implications of being a member of a minority group, questions about the universality of the human experience, and implications of a multi-cultural society, and the phases of acculturation clients may be experiencing.   PCH 509/609   Psychopathology Exploring the paradigms of mental and emotional dysfunction is the focus of this course. The emphasis is on the evaluation of psychological disturbances, using case studies to examine different disorders for the purpose of knowing why and when to refer certain clients to qualified mental health practitioners.   PCH 570/670   Legal and Ethical Issues in Coaching All coaches face risks. Those who face the greatest risks are those who are the least informed and educated. This course will provide: (1) an understanding of ethics as defined by a variety of codes applicable to coaches, including a focus on the ICF Code of Ethics; (2) an overview of the legal issues of which coaches should be aware; and (3) information about risk management techniques.   PCH 675   Research Methods in Coaching This course assists students in preparing for their dissertation project by examining research methods that can be employed.   PCH 580/680   Practicum/ Fieldwork Students are required to do case presentations based on their experience in coaching clients (professionally or under supervision), effectively demonstrating the core competencies of coaching.   PCH 590/690   Thesis/ Dissertation Research Project Students are required to produce original experimental or heuristic research, or a work of excellence project, of publishable quality.    

ELECTIVE COURSES

Elective courses may be recommended by the university to ensure the student receives a well-rounded education and students are encouraged to take electives that focus on their core areas of educational interest. Alternative electives to the courses below may be designed by students and submitted to their mentor and the university for approval, truly giving students to opportunity to customize their education. In addition, with prior university approval, students can receive course credits for certain relevant workshops and conferences attended.     PCH 612   Advanced Personality Theory This course offers students an opportunity to explore at a deeper level, the work of personality theorists of their choosing (Freud, Jung, Adler, Fromm, Skinner, Maslow, Rogers, Frankl and May, etc.)   PCH 614   Alignment and Embodiment of Values and Ethics Studies the cognitive, social, behavioral, and corporate processes affecting individual, group, and organizational judgments in morally questionable situations. Through analysis, students understand what factors give rise to and influence ethical issues and how organizational values precipitate ethical behavior.   PCH 615   Body-Centered Psychotherapy This course covers Body Centered Psychotherapy, which deals with information stored in the body in the form of images, memories and emotions. Blocked feelings get stuck in the physical body and block a person's energy flow. Held-in or stuck emotions not only cause emotional suffering, but physical pain, glandular imbalances, tension and often disease.   PCH 616   Clinical Neuropsychology This course focuses on major neurological syndromes with an emphasis on differential diagnosis. Common or significant neurological conditions are presented to allow recognition of psychological manifestations of neurological diseases. Other topics include the neurological examination, various syndromes and disorders, and neuropharmacology.   PCH 617   Coaching the Mid-life Transition This course is designed for both experienced and relatively new coaches who are either working with mid-life clients in career coaching or on other goals.  It will serve as a workshop where we inquire into midlife and soul-coaching as they occur, particularly during the ages of 35-65.     PCH 619   Coaching With The Enneagram The Enneagram is a century-old tool used in the spiritual direction tradition that has been newly rediscovered and applied to spiritual and personal development.  Learn how to use it for your own development as a coach as well as how to use it with your clients.  Discussion, self-assessment, case practice included.     PCH 620   Communication & Team Building This course examines major theories and approaches to building effective work teams, and their application to current management theory and practice. Students explore the role and effectiveness of work teams in today’s organizational culture and communication climate.   PCH 621   Community Psychology This course covers principles of psychology applied to real-life, community issues. Methodologies and techniques are explored, with emphasis upon the transpersonal approach. Review and understanding of actual programs addressing a variety of community issues such as youth violence, traffic safety, and productivity in the workplace are covered.   PCH 622   Conflict Resolution Explores the skills and techniques necessary for conflict mediation. Students study communication techniques, problem identification and disagreement management skills, techniques for achieving agreement or settlement, and intake skills.   PCH 623   Conscious Relationships This experiential course teaches how to coach couples in creating a conscious loving relationship — a powerful and meaningful way to significantly improve health, love-life and overall well-being. Learn how to assist two people couples to consciously agree to relate on a "higher" level, while utilizing clear communication methods.   PCH 624  Consulting Skills This course explores the nature of consulting as a learning and helping process between an individual and a group, focusing on the interpersonal skills and processes that make up the helping process. Using classic works from Peter Block, Ronald & Gordon Lippitt, and Edgar Schein, this course is designed for anyone who does consulting, even though they may not call themselves a consultant.   PCH 625   Cross-Cultural Coaching This is an advanced course designed for participants who have already completed the basics of coach training.  In this course, participants learn to recognize differences among cultures, cultural assumptions of coaching, the coach’s own cultural background, and how these factors impact cross cultural coaching.  Practicalities, resources, and creating a global coaching practice will also be covered. Classes take place weekly for 1 hour, over 4 consecutive weeks. 

PCH 626   Death and Dying – Grief and Loss This course explores students’ own relationships to death, grief, and loss. Presents issues and techniques for counseling and care of self as counselor.

PCH 627   Eco-Psychology This course explores the consequences of the split between person and planet and how healing this split may take place.   PCH 628   EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) Certification This course provides credit for students who successfully complete both parts 1 & 2 of the EMDR basic training program. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a complex approach to psychotherapy that integrates many of the successful elements of a range of therapeutic approaches in combination with eye movements or other forms of rhythmical stimulation in ways that stimulate the brain’s information processing system.   PCH 633   Family and Marital Therapy The family is the central building block of modern life although its nature and form are continually changing. One of the primary tasks of human services is to help families adapt to these changes. This course explores the nature of families and human systems and some of the approaches to therapeutic change within them. The theoretical works of Bateson, Satir, Haley, Hoffman, Minuchin, and Nagy are highlighted. The goal of the course is to offer a framework for thinking about families and understanding the nature of family processes.   PCH 634   Family Business Coaching This course is designed to serve the needs of coaches who want to apply their coaching skills to coaching the family business.  While an understanding of basic issues in the family business will be useful to participants, they will not be necessary for someone who joins this course.   PCH 635   Gestalt Therapy This course explores Gestalt therapy, a holistic therapy with a great spiritual foundation based, in part, on teachings from Buddhism and Taoism. The basic experiment of Gestalt therapy, attending to our awareness moment by moment, is rooted in Buddhist mindfulness. In neither Gestalt therapy nor Buddhist meditation is awareness considered merely a mental activity; rather it is a complete creative experience in the present that can include a focus on feeling the actual, coming to our senses, listening to our bodies and attending to our breathing.   PCH 636   Human Sexuality Counseling This course on human sexuality presents an investigation of sexuality within the larger context of the human experience. Emphasis is placed on the study of human sexual development, dimensions of sexual behavior, sex education, pleasure, health issues, sex therapy, ethical and legal aspects of sexuality, and art & sexuality.   PCH 637   Hypnotherapy Certification This course provides credit for students who successfully complete a hypnosis certification training program approved by the university.

PCH 638   Introduction To Adult Developmental Coaching This course will focus on the changing reality that adults face and explore the developmental challenges that traditionally appear in each decade of life from the 20s to 100 and beyond.  Learn how the developmental spiral helps explain the fact that so many challenges seem to appear time and time again.  Discover how coaching can help adults successfully navigate through their challenges while creating a life of excitement, fulfillment and joy.

PCH 639   Introduction To Coaching the Entrepreneur and the Small Business This course is designed for new and experienced coaches who want to achieve success and mastery in the skills and strategies required for successfully coaching the entrepreneur and the small business.  The training may include teleconferencing calls,  practice on case examples from participants; practices, written exercises,  and role plays.   PCH 640   Introduction To Executive Coaching and Development Learn the basics of executive coaching and development:  kinds of coaching you can do, special issues facing executives and their coaches, how performance coaching and executive development differ, how assessments and data gathering support the efforts, contracting with clients, etc.  This course will discuss practical issues and use outside readings as well as case studies and assigned practice to boost your skill as an executive coach.    PCH 642   Introduction To Transpersonal Coaching This course will explore ancient traditions within a contemporary context and discover truths that have transcended time. A variety of techniques that you can use to extend your own spirit-filled journey and use with your clients will also be taught.  Explore ancient wisdoms where East meets West, the past meets the present and in so doing we travel to wholeness. 

PCH 643   Intuition in Business This experiential course teaches students how to apply their intuitive abilities specifically to business issues, whether in large corporations, small businesses, or sole proprietorships. Students explore the application of intuition to organizational mission, personnel matters, staff training and development, new product development, mergers, downsizing and bankruptcy, and other areas of business making.   PCH 645   Organizational Psychology Explores the theory and practice of industrial and organizational psychology. You will examine the dynamics of organizational life and develop an understanding of the individual, interpersonal and group behaviors in work settings. Methods of assessment and intervention will be covered.   PCH 646   Strategies for Transformation This course will review strategies that allow for transformation and covers exercises on designing a life, the six cognitive stages of change, the prerequisites for transformation, and spiritual aspects of transformation — all integrated for a deep understanding of the transformation process. PCH 647   Stress Management  Principles for working with the physiological basis of stress by heightening kinesthetic awareness of the stress response and utilizing focused intentionality, imagery, and non-habitual movement to reduce physical tension are covered in this course. This is an experientially-based learning experience, integrating the approaches of Moshe Feldenkrais and F.M. Alexander with transactional analysis, Gestalt therapy and Ericksonian hypnosis.   PCH 750   Workshops / Retreats / Conferences 1 - 15 Workshops and retreats are held on varying topics in desirable locations such as Maui and San Diego. Students are notified of upcoming opportunities. Students are also encouraged to attend workshops, retreats and conferences relevant to their coursework. With prior approval and subsequent papers written on that which is gained from such events, students can receive credit.  

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Degree Options

The doctoral concentration in Coaching offers an interdisciplinary approach to integrating research-based coaching theory with professional practice in organizational and individual coaching. Students are encouraged to consider how the material resonates with, challenges or adds new dimensions to their professional and personal experiences (work life, teaching and consulting, formal coaching practices, and community). Core theories underpinning the principle practices of individual and organizational coaching will be studied; and through research, participants will integrate theory with practice in individual and organizational contexts.

Why Coaching?

An increasing demand for professional coaching practitioners in the social and business environments has informed the design and content of this graduate-level certificate program. Our graduate-level coaching program is one of the first in America to offer academic credit towards a graduate degree (MA or PhD). This program is designed to cultivate coaches who practice with personal and professional mastery, and are grounded in evidence-based work.

Coaching Highlights:

• Prepares coaching practitioners and scholars with grounding in the foundational theories in the field of coaching
• Fosters the development of situationally-responsive professional judgment and ethical practices
• Supports learner’s transfer of prior professional education and knowledge into the coaching framework
• Provides a structure and framework from reflective learning to coaching practice

Program Benefits:

• Instruction encompasses theory, practice and reflective learning
• Graduates develop a framework for approaching and customizing coaching interventions
• Resources and opportunities for research, scholarship, and contributions to the growing literature of coaching

The doctoral concentration in Coaching  is available for any PhD or EdD students enrolled in the School of Leadership Studies or students in the PhD in Media Psychology.

For students looking for an ICF Level 2 accredited coaching education provider to prepare for professional coach credentialing, please see our  EBC Certificate Program . This program’s academic hours transfer to the Master’s and Doctoral Programs.

• EdD in Leadership for Change
• PhD in Media Psychology

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• Program of Interest * Program of Interest PhD in Clinical Psychology PhD in Psychology with an Emphasis in Media & Technology PhD in Psychology PhD in Infant and Early Childhood Development PhD in Human Development PhD in Organizational Development and Change EdD in Leadership for Change MA in Organization Development and Leadership MA in Infant, Child, Family Mental Health and Development MA in Applied Media Psychology Certificate in Evidence Based Coaching Certificate in Media Psychology Neuropsychology Specialization Training Program Postbaccalaureate Certificate in Clinical Psychology Postdoctoral Certificate of Respecialization in Clinical Psychology

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Doctor of Coaching and Mentoring

Join a live webinar to find out more

Start dates: September 2024 / September 2025

Part time: 3 to 5 years

Location: Distance learning

Department(s): Oxford Brookes Business School

Find a course

We designed this course for experienced coaches/mentors looking to deepen their knowledge, show commitment and contribute to the evidence base of the field.

The Doctor of Coaching and Mentoring programme develops the capabilities needed to become a researcher and leader in the field and foster excellence in your practice. We will challenge you to build on your existing expertise and push the boundaries of your knowledge so you can:

• operate at the highest level in coaching, mentoring and personal development
• develop confidence in providing facilitation and consultancy
• be competent in researching the field.
• Our teaching staff have specific research interests in coaching and mentoring or related fields. We also invite specialists to provide further expert input.

To complete your doctoral thesis, the course includes:

• doctoral thesis training (taught modules and workshops)
• design of original empirical research
• professional expertise and scholarly inquiry

This is a part-time, distance learning course, delivered by the International Centre for Coaching and Mentoring Studies.

Attend an open day or webinar Ask a question Order a prospectus

Why Oxford Brookes University?

Benefit from a supervisory team of experts to support your work

You will also be joining a centre with an international team, who are experienced and research active

Network and discuss your work with staff, alumni and students within ICCaMS and beyond

Engage with the Coaching and Mentoring community, including professional bodies

Flexible distance learning through online delivery with regular intensive blocks of study available via on-campus or synchronous virtual attendance

Range of coaching and mentoring, and related topics supported

Regular milestones to support progression and timely completion of doctoral award

Opportunities to present work in progress and gain feedback from the OBBS research community

Staged development of research knowledge and skills through modules/workshops

The Coaching and Mentoring Programme is accredited with the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC). Upon completion of the Certificate Stage of the Programme, students typically obtain accreditation as Senior Practitioners with EMCC. Students need to be members of the EMCC and pay their own accreditation costs although these fees are at a much discounted rate.

Course details

Course structure, learning and teaching.

The course is designed as a three or five-year, part-time programme.

During the first two stages of the course you will focus on the taught level seven and eight components of the curriculum. This normally takes three years to complete. You will then move on to the third stage, the thesis, which usually takes a further two years to complete.

Stage One (Graduate entry stage) - six level 7 modules (20 credits each) plus a 60 credit Research project module (same as MA Coaching and Mentoring)

Stage Two - three level 8 modules (20 credits each) plus one non-credit bearing level 8 modules which must be passed

Stage Three (Direct entry) - research project registration and ethical approval with structured thesis workshops guiding students towards completion. At the draft submission stage students will have the opportunity to engage in a mock viva.

The direct entry version of the course can be completed in three years, with level seven exemptions, for existing masters qualifications. At this entry point you complete the level eight taught modules before moving onto the thesis research stage.

If you chose the on-campus mode of study for the MA stage (Graduate entry), you’ll learn at the Headington campus. Your learning will combine whole-day intensive sessions, and online and independent learning. On-campus sessions are on intermittent Saturdays, supported by regular online seminars. 

If you choose to do the course via distance learning, you’ll learn via interactive and high-quality online resources. At the MA stage (Graduate entry) the distance learning mode of study includes live online seminars on Fridays. At the DCM stage (Admission with credit) you’ll participate in live online seminars on Fridays and each semester there will be a block of sessions that you can join synchronously. 

Your learning will be visual, written and verbal - with equal emphasis on written and visual work. Each module builds upon the last, helping you meaningfully deepen your practice. You’ll be closely supported by your tutors as you build your research skills and deepen your academic abilities.

You will be assessed on a variety of coursework assignments and a thesis at both Stage 1 and stage 3. Progress to stage 2 depends upon a satisfactory merit profile and merit thesis at level 7.

To progress to the third stage of the course, you must successfully complete assignments based on methodological taught modules at level 8. The final doctoral thesis (60,000 words) is examined by traditional viva voce (oral examination) by an internal, and at least one, external examiner.

The International Centre for Coaching and Mentoring Studies is at the forefront of coaching and mentoring research. The Doctor of Coaching and Mentoring has operated since 2006.

Our journal (International Journal of Evidence Based Coaching & Mentoring), annual Research and Coaching supervision conferences, and professional network OBCAMS (the Oxford Brookes Coaching and Mentoring Society) offer excellent opportunities for the dissemination and sharing of research and ideas.

Research areas include: philosophical underpinnings of coaching; developmental, leadership and team coaching; resilience; embodiment; transfer of learning; coaching and mentoring and social change; ethics and coaching and the coaching relationship.

Students graduating from the Doctor of Coaching and Mentoring programme can expect to be recognised as experts in their field. This will enhance existing organisational and freelance careers and create employment opportunities or promotions.

Students are encouraged to publish while on the course and after completion of the thesis.  It is likely that you will continue to write for both the popular practitioner and academic press following your doctoral award. Several DCM alumni have published book chapters and books on their doctoral studies.

There may be further career opportunities in academia and industry where the highest level of achievement is recognised and rewarded.

Student profiles

Larissa Thurlow

"Thesis title: Supervision for team coaches: The issues, challenges and experiences and what those may indicate about the capabilities needed for supervisors to be fit for this role"

Benita Mayhead

"Thesis title: Duty of care of the executive coach"

Mike Sailsman

"Thesis title: Exploring the usefulness of incorporating neurofeedback training and mobile EEG technology into the coaching process"

Christine Vitzthum

"Thesis title: How do coaches and organisational stakeholders approach coaching to support gender diversity?"

Mitaali Katoch

"Thesis title: Survival learnings of family-run fashion firms: Expanding the significance of organisational adaptation and environmental selection in organisation studies"

Janine Roberts

"Thesis title: Working with emotions in leadership coaching"

Mike Livingstone

"Thesis title: How meaningful and useful is the concept of the Life Space in Executive Coaching"

Sebastian Fox

"Thesis title: Team members' and team coaches' perceptions of the most productive parts of their sessions"

Thesis title: Supervision for team coaches: The issues, challenges and experiences and what those may indicate about the capabilities needed for supervisors to be fit for this role

Dr Benita Mayhead

Thesis title: Duty of care of the executive coach

Thesis title: Exploring the usefulness of incorporating neurofeedback training and mobile EEG technology into the coaching process

Thesis title: How do coaches and organisational stakeholders approach coaching to support gender diversity?

Thesis title: Survival learnings of family-run fashion firms: Expanding the significance of organisational adaptation and environmental selection in organisation studies

Thesis title: Working with emotions in leadership coaching

Thesis title: How meaningful and useful is the concept of the Life Space in Executive Coaching

Thesis title: Team members' and team coaches' perceptions of the most productive parts of their sessions

Dr Judie Gannon

Judie is a senior lecturer and programme coordinator for Doctor of Coaching and Mentoring. She is also Deputy Head of Doctoral Programmes for the Oxford Brookes Business School. Her research interests include coaching and mentoring as forms of social change, the coaching and mentoring relationship, managing coaching and mentoring interventions and activism and social movements in coaching and mentoring, as well as undertaking doctoral studies.

Professor Tatiana Bachkirova

Tatiana is Professor of Coaching Psychology my responsibilities include teaching on the MA and Doctorate in Coaching and Mentoring Practice; research and academic supervision of MA and doctoral students; supervision of the coaches for Oxford Brookes programmes.

Related courses

Entry requirements, specific entry requirements.

There are two entry points for the Doctor of Coaching and Mentoring (

Graduate entry

For graduate entry into the five-year DCM programme you should normally have a good honours degree, plus three years' minimum experience in coaching/mentoring.

Direct entry

For direct entry into the later stage of the DCM programme you should have an appropriate master’s level qualification, with a merit profile and a minimum of five years’ experience of coaching/mentoring.

Depending on entry stage you may be eligible for exemptions from certain elements of the programme.

Please also see the University's general entry requirements .

Selection process

We are now accepting applications for September 2024 entry. This programme has a limited number of places so early applications are advisable. Applications received by mid June 2024 will be considered for September 2024 entry with late June/July 2024 interviews scheduled. For further details on the DCM programme, including our information pack, module descriptions, funding information, FAQs, guidance on completing a research proposal, reference forms and staff profiles please email Dr Omar Abou Hamdan  [email protected]  or  [email protected]

English language requirements

IELTS minimum level 7.0 overall with at least 6.5 in the reading and writing components.

Please also see the University's  standard English language requirements .

Pathways courses for international and EU students

We offer a range of courses to help you meet the entry requirements for your postgraduate course and also familiarise you with university life in the UK.

Take a Pre-Master's course to develop your subject knowledge, study skills and academic language level in preparation for your master's course.

If you need to improve your English language, we offer  pre-sessional English language courses to help you meet the English language requirements of your chosen master’s course.

English requirements for visas

If you need a student visa to enter the UK you will need to meet the UK Visas and Immigration minimum language requirements as well as the University's requirements.  Find out more about English language requirements .

Credit transfer

Terms and conditions of enrolment.

When you accept our offer, you agree to the  Terms and Conditions of Enrolment . You should therefore read those conditions before accepting the offer.

How to apply

Application process.

• Complete your research proposal
• Compile a personal/motivation statement and identify relevant members of the ICCAMs team who may be interested in your proposal
• Gather your supporting documents (listed below)
• Make a direct application .

If you have any difficulty completing your application, please visit our  Frequently Asked Questions page .

Supporting Documents

When applying for this programme of study please upload all of the required supporting documents listed below to the  online application portal .

We suggest merging your supporting documents into a single PDF file. Please note there are two specifically designated options for you to upload your two references to.

• copies of your previous degree transcripts and certificates (both undergraduate and postgraduate)
• a scan of your passport
• two academic references
• a 2,000-word Research Topic Proposal (Direct entry) or a 1,000-word Research Topic Proposal (Graduate entry)
• evidence of funding (we require evidence of personal funds or letter from funder if being sponsored)
• international students must also provide an English Language Certificate with an IELTS score of at least 7.0.
• *Please comment in your motivation statement and research proposal upon your ability to access resources (IT, library) which will ensure you can attend relevant online and intensive sessions, and how you intend to manage your time commitment to doctoral studies. 

Applications deadline is Monday 10 June 2024 for September/October 2024 entry. We cannot guarantee that applications submitted after this date can be considered for Autumn 2024 entry.

Tuition fees

The following factors will be taken into account by the University when it is setting the annual fees: inflationary measures such as the retail price indices, projected increases in University costs, changes in the level of funding received from Government sources, admissions statistics and access considerations including the availability of student support. 

How and when to pay

Tuition fee instalments for the semester are due by the Monday of week 1 of each semester. Students are not liable for full fees for that semester if they leave before week 4. If the leaving date is after week 4, full fees for the semester are payable.

• For information on payment methods please see our Make a Payment page.
• For information about refunds please visit our Refund policy  page

Additional costs

Please be aware that some courses will involve some additional costs that are not covered by your fees. Specific additional costs for this course are detailed below.

Compulsory costs

Optional costs, funding your studies, financial support and scholarships.

Featured funding opportunities available for this course.

All financial support and scholarships

View all funding opportunities for this course

Programme changes : On rare occasions we may need to make changes to our course programmes after they have been published on the website. For more information, please visit our changes to programmes page.

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College of Applied Human Sciences: School of Sport Sciences

Coaching and Teaching Studies, -->PhD -->

WVU is the only institution in West Virginia to offer a doctorate degree (PhD and EdD) majoring in Coaching and Teaching Studies.

Our doctoral programs provide a high-quality and meaningful educational experience that enables each learner to succeed in achieving their chosen academic and career goals. Furthermore, the related experiences promote the development of learners as analytical thinkers who are confident in the application of the scientific method and who can excel professionally as educators and researchers.

The PhD is a research doctorate, the purpose of which is to prepare program graduates for careers as researchers in university, government, not-for-profit and industry settings. As its primary learning outcome, program graduates develop the competencies needed to lead innovation in the field through their contributions as independent researchers. Our PhD students also acquire complementary experiences and skill sets that enhance their professional readiness in teaching, service, administration and clinical practice.

The EdD is a professional doctorate, the purpose of which is to prepare program graduates for careers as organizational leaders across a range of school, university and community-based settings. As its primary learning outcome, program graduates develop the competencies needed to facilitate organizational change using data-based approaches to problem solving and decision-making. Our EdD students also acquire complementary skill sets that enhance their professional readiness in teaching, service, administration and clinical practice.

Your Degree Plan

The PhD in Coaching and Teaching Studies is a research doctorate, the purpose of which is to prepare program graduates for careers as researchers in university, government, not-for-profit and industry settings

• Plan of Study

Our curriculum is designed to prepare researchers, teachers and professional leaders to address critical issues in the field by developing research skills, engaging in reflective teaching and expanding knowledge.

Qualifying Exam During the first semester of coursework, all doctoral students will be required to take and pass an oral qualifying exam based on assigned reading lists.

Comprehensive Exam Prior to proposing their dissertation to their committee, students must take and pass a Comprehensive Exam to assess their ability to synthesize and critically reflect on the literature related to their research area of interest related to physical education, physical activity or athletic coaching education. The faculty members on the students’ committees from the CATS faculty will adjudicate the quality of a presentation, the written document and the student’s ability to respond to questioning.

Benchmarks Students enrolled in the PhD in Coaching and Teaching Studies program submit two research papers as part of their doctoral benchmarking processes. Both PhD and EdD students submit their final dissertation/thesis manuscript for publication.

Dissertation Proposal and Defense The dissertation is the culmination of the research efforts of the student. The program coordinator will work with students during their first year of study to designate an appropriate adviser to oversee and mentor their research. The advisor will chair the dissertation committee and work with the student to select a committee based on expertise specific to the related line of inquiry. Once the committee is in place, they will convene to discuss and approve the student’s plan of study and designate each member’s role in mentoring the student in designing and carrying out his/her dissertation research. Once proposed to and approved by the committee, the student may complete his/her research study and prepare to defend the findings to the committee. The final dissertation must be defended in a public forum and approved by the committee.

Take advantage of special options related to this major:

Expand your curiosity — and enhance your curriculum — through the WVU Honors College. Two programs are offered: Honors Foundations for first- and second-year students and Honors EXCEL for third- and fourth-year students.

The WVU Difference

What sets this program apart from its competitors?

• PhD and EdD degree pathways are customizable based on academic and career goals.
• Research, teaching and service assistantships are available and include a stipend and full graduate tuition waiver.
• Students develop focused lines of research, while also gaining valuable experience in teaching and supervision.
• Faculty are international and national experts in the fields of physical education, coaching education and kinesiology.
• Graduates serve as leaders in K-12 schools, higher education, nonprofits and specialized areas of the sport industry.
• 100% job placement rate in diverse fields throughout the nation and beyond.
• The WVU School of Sport Sciences was recently recognized as one of the best in the country by Newsweek.

Learn by Doing

Learning happens outside the classroom. Get involved.

Research and Academic Opportunities

In addition to a student’s own dissertation research, opportunities are provided for graduate students to engage with faculty on various projects, for experiences in data collection, writing empirical or practitioner-focused research papers or being part of program assessment and/or evaluation.

Students complete research in the following areas:

Adapted Physical Education/Activity This area of focus addresses teaching and scholarship advancing the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in school-and community-based physical education/activity contexts. Our faculty and graduate students are members of a multi-institutional Adapted Physical Education Mentoring Consortium funded by a doctoral training grant from the U.S. Department of Education. As members, our doctoral scholars have opportunities to collaborate on high-quality research projects, multi-institutional seminars and summer training with APE faculty at nine leading institutions of higher education across the nation. Our faculty are engaged in several multidisciplinary research and service projects related to adapted physical education/activity, teacher education, health disparities, motor development and motor skill interventions.

Applied Sport Science Our doctoral students studying applied sport sciences conduct research focused on long-term athlete monitoring and performance assessment. This research better informs coaches as to how their athletes are responding to the training and recovery cycle. As a doctoral student in this area, you will engage in a variety of hands-on learning opportunities with our many campus partners, including the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute Human Performance Innovation Center, an applied sport science laboratory. You will have access to the innovative technologies and professionals who are working on the cutting-edge of applied sport science.

Coaching Leadership This area of focus addresses research on the foundational scientific and sport-specific knowledge structures that underlie effective coaching practice. Additional areas of study include the interpersonal and intrapersonal skills needed for organizational leadership in sport settings. As an emerging research concentration, coach development and education affords doctoral students multiple pathways to pursue a focused and impactful line of research. Our faculty engage in a wide range of international and national service opportunities in coach development that many doctoral students contribute to as well.

Physical Education Teacher Education Physical education teacher education enjoys a long-standing tradition with doctoral students completing research studies in educational policy development, comprehensive school physical activity programming, curriculum and instruction, instructional technology use, teacher preparation and many other areas. Collectively, our research in this area targets the improvement of learners in K-12 settings with an overarching goal of facilitating the development of physically active lifestyles. Our faculty are engaged with several large-scale, multidisciplinary research projects involving healthy food and physical activity access in rural communities, state-wide surveillance of cardiovascular risk in school-aged children and policy and accountability systems in school physical education.

Professional Organizations

Network with professionals in your field as a student member of:

• International Council for Coaching Excellence
• National Strength and Conditioning Association
• United States Center for Coaching Excellence

Internships

Graduate Teaching Assistantships

• Basic Instruction Program (BIP)
• Physical Education Teacher Education Program
• Coaching Education Program
• Adapted Physical Education Clinic

Graduate Research Assistantships

• Center for ActiveWV (grant funded)
• WV CARDIAC Project (grant funded)
• CDC High Obesity Program (grant funded)
• Monongalia County Strength and Conditioning
• USDE Adapted Physical Education (grant funded)

Graduate Service Assistantships

• WVU Athletics
• WVU Student Recreation Center
• Graduate Service/Teaching Assistantship
• University Advising Center

What Skills You'll Take Away With You

Attending college will prepare you for many things. The Coaching and Teaching Studies major will give you the following skills:

• Analytical Skills: develop skills that help identify and solve complex problems, such as critical thinking, creative thinking, data analysis, organization and communication.
• Research Skills: find and consume research, formulate research questions, data collection, statistical skills, writing, publishing
• Communication Skills: share and understand information presented, respect others’ points of view, listen to others
• Leadership Skills: lead with confidence, display a positive and optimistic attitude, open to new and different experiences with a global mindset
• Strategic Vision: identify outcomes and long-term goals, and strategize how to prioritize and accomplish them accordingly

What you learn outside of the classroom is just as important as what you learn during class. We’ll help you follow your curiosity.

Careers and Outcomes

How does this degree prepare students for a career?

• Career Profiles
• How We Prepare You

Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary School

Plan, direct or coordinate the academic, administrative or auxiliary activities of public or private elementary or secondary level schools.

May require a Graduate Degree

Median Salary: $101,320

Possible job titles include: Assistant Principal, Middle School Principal, Principal, Superintendent.

Education Administrators, Postsecondary

Plan, direct or coordinate research, instructional, student administration and services and other educational activities at postsecondary institutions, including universities, colleges and junior and community colleges.

Median Salary: $99,940

Possible job titles include: Academic Dean, Dean, Provost, Registrar.

Fitness and Wellness Coordinators

Manage or coordinate fitness and wellness programs and services. Manage and train staff of wellness specialists, health educators or fitness instructors.

Has a Bright Outlook

Median Salary: $56,090

Possible job titles include: Fitness and Wellness Director, Fitness Coordinator, Fitness/Wellness Director, Wellness Director.

Community Health Workers

Assist individuals and communities to adopt healthy behaviors. Conduct outreach for medical personnel or health organizations to implement programs in the community that promote, maintain and improve individual and community health. May provide information on available resources, provide social support and informal counseling, advocate for individuals and community health needs and provide services such as first aid and blood pressure screening. May collect data to help identify community health needs.

Median Salary: $46,190

Possible job titles include: Community Health Outreach Worker, Community Health Program Coordinator, Community Health Promoter, Community Nutrition Educator.

Education Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses pertaining to education, such as counseling, curriculum, guidance, instruction, teacher education and teaching English as a second language. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Has a Bright Outlook , May require a Graduate Degree

Median Salary: $66,930

Possible job titles include: Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Education Professor, Professor.

Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses pertaining to recreation, leisure and fitness studies, including exercise physiology and facilities management. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Median Salary: $72,650

Possible job titles include: Coach, Professor, Health and Physical Education Professor (HPE Professor), Physical Education Professor (PE Professor).

Instructional Coordinators

Develop instructional material, coordinate educational content, and incorporate current technology in specialized fields that provide guidelines to educators and instructors for developing curricula and conducting courses. Includes educational consultants and specialists, and instructional material directors.

Median Salary: $66,940

Possible job titles include: Curriculum Coordinator, Curriculum Director, Curriculum Specialist, Instructional Systems Specialist.

Where our PhD grads are working

• Adam Katchmarchi, Executive Director at National Drowning Prevention Alliance, Assistant Professor, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, PA
• Brooke Towner, Assistant Professor, Appalachian State University, NC
• Kiel Illig, Superintendent, Attica Central School District, Attica, NY
• Renee Brown, Assissant Women's Basketball Coach and International Services Director, University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, PA
• Tyler Goad, Assistant Professor, Emporia State University, KS
• Hannah Kipfer, Assistant Professor, Emporia State University, KS
• Adam Keath, Assistant Professor, Winthrop University, SC
• Cory Breithoff Moskovich, Secondary Physical Education Teacher, MD
• Junhyung Baek, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
• Lindsay Hammond, California University of Pennsylvania, PA
• Meghan Phillips, Business Owner, Kinematics, Morgantown WV

Meet Your Community

The Coaching and Teaching Studies family will inspire and support you.

• Future Classmates
• Program Faculty
• Alumni Network

The main reason for why I opted to come to WVU initially was because I really wanted to be able to impact change in the most relevant ways possible.

I have aspirations to eventually work in higher education, with pre-service physical education teachers in a Physical Education Teacher Education program.

• “I am grateful for the hands-on experiences mentoring and supporting PETE undergraduates in student-teaching individuals with disabilities in community-based settings. These opportunities have provided me with invaluable skills I will use as a professor of adapted physical activity.” A. Chloe Simpson Listen to Chloe's experience
• “Working with Dr. Dieffenbach, an international leader in the field of coach education and development, has allowed me the opportunity to help improve support, efficacy and effectiveness of coach developers and sport coaches across systems.” Christina Villalon

Sean Bulger

Professional highlights:

• Received the 2016 Ray O. Duncan Award from the state HPERD association for outstanding service and leadership.
• Co-authored more than 70 books, chapters, and journal articles on physical activity promotion and best teaching practices.
• Collaborated on over $6 million in external funding to support physical activity in school, community, and family settings.
• Delivered over 130 presentations at state, regional, and national conferences/conventions.

Kristen Dieffenbach

• Past President (founding), United States Center for Coaching Excellence
• Fellow, Association of Applied Sport Psycholog
• Certified Mental Performance Consultant, Association for Applied Sport Psychology
• Professional cycling and endurance sport coach for 25+ years
• Sport Steering Committee, National Physical Activity Plan

Eloise Elliott

• Ware Distinguished Professor in the WVU College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences since 2009
• Co-Author of the book, Teaching Children and Adolescents Physical Education (Graham, Elliott, Palmer, 2016)
• Recent Honors: Research Fellow, Society of Health and Physical Education (SHAPE) America (2017), Outstanding WVU CPASS Grantsperson Award (2019), Chair, U.S. President’s Council for Fitness, Sport, and Nutrition Science Board (2017)

Guy Hornsby

• Head Coach of West Virginia Weightlifting and Volunteer (throws) Coach for WVU Track and Field
• Coaching Science Coordinator at WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, Human Performance Innovation Center
• West Virginia State Director for the National Strength and Conditioning Association

Peter McGahey

• Former NCAA Division I and II Women’s Head Coach
• United States Soccer Federation A Licensed Coach
• United States Center for Coaching Excellence (USCCE) – Nominating Committee

Samantha Ross

• Research emphasis: The impact of disability on participation in community-based physical activity across the life span
• American Kinesiology Association, National Writing Award 2018
• Recipient of U.S. Department of Education Graduate Training Grant, OSU Leadership Personnel in Adapted Physical Education (PI: Yun), 2016-2019.

Michael J. Ryan

• Program Coordinator for Athletic Coaching Education
• 10 years of undergraduate and graduate teaching experience in Exercise Science and Kinesiology
• National Federation of High Schools (NFHS) State and Mid-East Sectional Girls Cross Country Coach of the Year
• 20 years of coaching experience at the Division 1 and high school levels
• Coached seven WVSSAC State Championship Teams in cross country and track

• Research emphasis on teachers' content knowledge, motor skills and physical activity engagement, and policy in physical education.
• Teaches classes in introductory of pedagogy and elementary and early childhood physical education methods.
• Has conducted 35 international and national presentations.

Valerie Wayda

• North American Society (NAS) of Health, Physical Education, Recreation, Sport and Dance Professionals Fellow
• National Association for Kinesiology and Physical Education in Higher Education - Vice President, 2012
• National Association for Sport and Physical Education Board of Directors, 2003-2006

James Wyant

• WVU Teacher of the Year Award, and CPASS award for excellence in teaching for the 2018-2019 academic year.
• WV Department of Education Teacher Credentials: Physical Education PreK-Adult, Health Education grades 5-12.
• Coordinator of the physical education teacher education student teaching capstone experience.

Jeremy Yeats

• Program Coordinator for Physical Education and Kinesiology
• Research emphases in education policy, the use of music in sport, physical activity breaks and social justice
• Seven years experience as a Teaching Assistant Professor or Assistant Professor

I use the knowledge and competence that I learned during my time at WVU every day in my role as an educational leader.

The dedication and compassion of professors supported my understanding of successful teacher preparation and how to make an impact on the health and wellness of the future.

The content, skills and leadership development i gained through my wvu doctoral program experience have prepared me as an educator and researcher..

Common questions and answers about Coaching and Teaching Studies.

Would I be able to secure a graduate assistantship or other financial support?

WVU graduate students have access to a range of financial supports including fellowships, scholarships, tuition waivers, graduate assistantships, financial aid and loans which are available at the university and college levels. Most all our CATS doctoral students are ensured a graduate teaching, research or service assistantship in our academic majors, or collaboratively with other University and community partners.

After being admitted to the program, in order to be considered for an assistantship, you will need to complete an application form through the CAHS Graduate Student Funding Portal .

Is there an online option for the doctoral programs in CATS?

Both our PhD and EdD programs are currently offered “in person” with some online course offerings throughout your plan of study.

Do the CATS doctoral programs require GRE scores as part of the application process?

At this time, GRE scores are required for the PhD program application; however, GRE scores are not required for the EdD program application.

When are applications due for the following academic year?

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, however each year’s new cohort begins at the beginning of the Fall semester with the deadline for application submission by December 1.

Places and Spaces

Learn about all of the places and spaces you'll learn in.

Student Recreation Center

Our undergraduate majors take several courses that focus on learning to teach a wide range of individual and team sports and activities. The WVU Campus Rec Center provides the backdrop for these important courses, with its state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor activity spaces (e.g., fitness center and weight room, gymnasiums, aquatics facility, climbing wall, disc golf course, playing fields). Learning in these spaces affords our majors an opportunity to learn to teach a wide variety of content areas that are commonly included in the K-12 school physical education curriculum. Our doctoral students assist faculty members in overseeing the Adapted Physical Education Clinic at the Campus Recreation Center. They gain experience working with our undergraduate students as well as students with disabilities from the Monongalia County school system on Fridays throughout a semester.

Steelcase Active Learning Center

The Steelcase Active Learning Center features flexible workspaces designed for collaborative learning and problem-solving. The physical space supports the use of mobile devices, distance learning technologies and other interactive features to facilitate a more fluid teaching and learning environment for both students and instructors. This unique classroom space serves as an ideal setting for the types of collaborative learning activities that our majors engage in across their plans of study.

Center for Applied Coaching and Sport Sciences

• Undergraduate and graduate independent study opportunities are available with the Center for Applied Coaching and Sport Sciences project. (Honors projects encouraged)
• Students have an opportunity to get involved in Center research projects with faculty and fellow students
• Students have an opportunity to get involved in Center organized community-based sport activities.
• Interested students can support sport coaching resource development (infographics, educational video creation).
• Students can attend Center supported invited guest lectures and learning opportunities.

Center for Active WV

Our goal is to generate original research and materials that will fill the gap between cutting edge sport science knowledge and technology, best teaching practices and applied coaching across all levels of sport.

• Virtual Tour It's the next-best thing to being here – you can virtually tour residence halls and the WVU Morgantown Campus.
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Admission Requirements

To be eligible for admission into a graduate program at WVU an applicant must submit official, bachelor's degree transcripts from a regionally accredited institution and hold a GPA of at least 2.75. WVU operates decentralized admissions. Decentralized admissions allows each graduate program to set its own application requirements in addition to the University requirements.

To be eligible for admission into the Coaching and Teaching Studies graduate program an applicant must submit the following documentation:

• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendation - Two

Applicants can seek admission to the doctoral program in Coaching and Teaching Studies with either a baccalaureate degree or master’s degree. To be considered for admission, applicants must upload the following documentation within the graduate application :

• Résumé or curriculum vitae
• Transcripts from all previous institutions
• Official GRE scores
• Personal statement (1-2 written pages on professional background, goals and reasons for pursuing doctoral degree at WVU, and rationale for potential faculty advisor)
• Two (2) letters of recommendation

You will not be able to submit your application until the above documents are uploaded. Once the application is submitted and (unofficial/official) transcripts are received, your application will be reviewed for an admission decision. International applicants will not be reviewed with unofficial transcripts.

Please contact the Office of Student Success at 304-293-4800 for more information about the application process.

Additional Application Considerations

Apply by December 1 for priority consideration. Applications that are incomplete or are submitted after the deadline may be reviewed if openings remain. Admission is limited to fall start only.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their application with unofficial transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Submitting unofficial transcripts speeds up the application review process as most graduate programs make admission decisions using unofficial transcripts.

If you are offered acceptance, you are required to submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions to be fully admitted into your intended graduate program. You will not be able to register for classes until the official transcripts are received. The preferred method to submit your official transcripts is through a secure online service, such as eScript, The National Clearing House or Parchment, to [email protected] .

Alternatively, if you are unable to submit an electronic version of your official transcript, the physical, sealed, un-tampered with documents can be mailed to:

WVU Graduate Admissions, PO Box 6510, Morgantown, WV 26501

WVU Graduate Admissions, 1 Waterfront Place, 2nd Floor, Morgantown, WV 26505

• Applications that are incomplete or are submitted after the deadline may be reviewed if openings remain.
• International applicants must also submit required materials for international applicants .

Review Process

Following the priority deadline, program faculty will evaluate applicant credentials based on the materials submitted. After that initial review, a limited number of applicants will be invited to a personal online and/or on-campus interview with the program faculty prior to a final admission decision.

Program Contact

If you have any questions about this graduate program, please contact Eloise Elliott at [email protected] .

Application Deadlines

Each graduate program sets their own terms for admission and application deadlines. Applicants can only apply for admission for the terms displayed below. Any questions regarding the application deadline should be directed to the graduate program representative.

• Fall: December 1

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DBA in Executive Coaching Mentor in the Making

Credit Hours

View Courses

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Reach the Pinnacle of Your Career with a DBA in Executive Coaching

Are you a business professional seeking a terminal degree? Do you want to advance your career as an executive coach or branch out into this exciting field? Are you looking to pass on your business expertise to other leaders in the industry?

If that sounds like you, Liberty’s online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Executive Coaching can help. Our program is designed to help equip you for top-level business roles. You can advance your knowledge of important business practices, receive specialized training in professional coaching, and prepare to solve real-world business problems. And, by earning your DBA, you can demonstrate to employers that you are committed to achieving excellence.

Liberty’s executive coaching specialization explores practical methods for mentoring business owners, managers, and executives. Upon graduation, you could pursue new job opportunities in executive coaching and consulting. You can help business leaders hone their skills and lead their organizations to success.

Partner with us and see how far a DBA in Executive Coaching can take you!

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Why Choose Liberty’s Online Executive Coaching Doctorate?

At Liberty, we’ve designed our online executive coaching degree with your success in mind. Our DBA professors seek to equip qualified professionals with the knowledge, skills, and values essential for impacting the world. If you want to dive deeper into advanced business topics and boost your expertise, we can help.

Here are some of the benefits of choosing Liberty’s executive coaching program:

• Flexibility | Our DBA in Executive Coaching degree program is offered 100% online, and the classes have no set login times. You can earn your degree from the comfort of your home and easily access your course materials whenever you need them. Most importantly, you can stay invested in the things that really matter — like your family, job, and community — while pursuing your academic goals.
• Valuable Credentials | Liberty’s online executive coaching degree is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs ( ACBSP ). You can pursue your degree with confidence knowing that our DBA program has met rigorous academic standards.
• Integrity | At Liberty, our mission is to Train Champions for Christ . That’s why our online executive coaching doctorate is designed to integrate biblical principles with professional knowledge. In addition to honing your skills and enhancing your business acumen, you can prepare to stand out as an ethical, value-driven professional.
• Career Preparation | Our DBA program can help you use theory and research methods to address practical business challenges. You can build upon your previous knowledge and experience while preparing to pursue advanced business roles. For example, if you already work in executive coaching or consulting, you could develop the skills needed to manage a consulting firm and equip other executive coaches to effectively serve their clients.

What Will You Study in Our Online Doctoral Degree in Executive Coaching?

This program offers a blend of core business classes and specialized training in coaching. You’ll have the opportunity to take courses that are drawn from both our School of Business and our School of Behavioral Sciences. That way, you can develop a diverse skill set that could set you apart from the competition.

Within your core courses, you will explore a variety of pertinent topics, including supply chain management, allocation of financial resources, marketing, strategy formulation, and human resource management. You can train to stand out as a leader in the field of executive coaching and help business leaders achieve their full potential.

Our executive coaching online degree also provides an in-depth look at research methods, culminating in an Applied Doctoral Research Project. Completing this project will help you contribute to the ongoing discussion about business practices and apply what you’ve learned to the real world.

With the executive coaching specialization, you can prepare to promote professional growth among business leaders. You’ll analyze professional coaching from a business standpoint and learn how to conduct financial coaching. Our program can also help you do the following:

• Discover practical ways to connect and communicate with clients.
• Explore contemporary issues and theories in the field of coaching.
• Help business owners and managers navigate challenges related to project management, cultural awareness, and intergenerational issues.
• Mentor individuals in leadership positions and help them cultivate unity in their organizations.

Potential Career Opportunities

• Educator/professor
• Executive coach
• Leadership development consultant
• Private business consultant
• Training coordinator

Featured Courses

• LIFC 501 – Introduction to Life Coaching
• LIFC 502 – Advanced Life Coaching Skills
• LIFC 603 – Financial Life Coaching
• LIFC 604 – Leadership Professional Life Coaching

Degree Information

• This program falls under the School of Business .
• View the Graduate Business Course Guides (login required).
• View the Doctor of Business Administration Handbook for additional program information.
• The Applied Doctoral Research Project (ADRP) in the DBA program relates to a business problem in your specialization.

Degree Completion Plan (PDF)

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

• Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information for Liberty’s DBA in Executive Coaching Program

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). At least 30 semester hours of graduate business credit, as well as a regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree in business or a business-related field with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
• Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application online or over the phone.

Apply by phone: (800) 424-9595

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is liberty’s dba programs accredited.

Liberty’s Doctor of Business Administration in Executive Coaching is accredited by ACBSP, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Our School of Business is among only 3% of business schools worldwide to earn ACBSP accreditation.

What resources will be available while pursuing this degree?

As an online student, you can access a wide variety of resources through Liberty’s library portal while completing your doctorate in executive coaching.

Inner Navigation

• Why Choose Liberty?
• What Will You Study?
• Admission Information

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Top 10 Doctorate in Training and Development Programs Online 2024

Find your perfect school.

Key Takeaways:

• Our #1 ranking school for an online doctorate program is Liberty University , followed by the University of Arkansas .
• Employment for training and development managers is projected to grow by 10% by 2026 , driven by continuous educational needs.
• Criteria for ranking these programs include accreditation , publication rankings , and tuition affordability .

In this article, we profile the top 10 online doctorates in training and development.

The United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the employment of training and development managers should grow by ten percent by 2026. Job prospects in this field should be favorable due to the continuous need for education and training in the workforce. Earning an online PhD or doctorate in training and development shows employers you have the highest skill set in the industry. To help qualify for management roles, top institutions offer PhD in training and development online or on-campus.

Featured Programs

Top 10 online phd training and development methodology.

We looked at approximately 30 doctorates or PhDs in training and development online listed by reputable internet sources and the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator. We reviewed hybrid or fully online doctorates in training and development, or closely related degree programs. To narrow our original pool of schools, we applied the following criteria: Accreditation from a reputable governing body, school or program rankings with a major publication like U.S. News and World Report, and raw affordability of graduate tuition and fees. We then listed the programs according to raw affordability.

Below is our list of the top 10 online programs for a doctorate or PhD in training and development.

Note: This ranking/article was originally published in April 2019 and was last updated in June 2022. The 2022 tuition updates may affect the ranking order, but the list has not been re-ordered.

#10 – University of Illinois

Online edd in human resource development, champaign, illinois.

The University of Illinois offers one of the best doctorate programs in training and development online on our list. The EdD in HRD consists of 64 credit hours, a dissertation proposal, and thesis research. Classes include:

• adult and professional education
• instructional and training system design
• learning on the job
• organizational development

The program focuses on the preparation of scholar-practitioners and requires the completion of a dissertation and thesis. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Illinois #46 among the best national universities.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $17,823

#9 – Northcentral University

Online phd in global training and development, la jolla, california.

Northcentral University’s online PhD in training and development is designed to prepare tomorrow’s leaders in the field of training and performance improvement. A total of 60 credits are required. Enrolled students take 20 classes that can be completed over the course of 45 months. The program offers unique flexibility, unlike most PhD programs. Weekly course starts, no scheduled lecture hours, no group assignments, and the ability to schedule courses around personal and professional obligations make the program convenient for working professionals. Also, the program provides 100% doctoral faculty so that students are mentored by the most knowledgeable instructors. U.S. News and World Report recognizes Northcentral among the top national universities.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $18,207

#8 – Sullivan University

Online phd in management, louisville, kentucky.

One of the top PhD in training and development online is the doctorate in management from Sullivan University. This fully online PhD program prepares doctoral candidates through courses, relevant and original research opportunities, and extensive opportunities in teaching or management training. Students may choose from four concentrations to tailor their degree. These concentrations include:

• conflict management
• human resource leadership
• information technology management
• strategic management

Some of the online courses offered are:

• advanced qualitative and quantitative research
• organizations and external environments
• research design and analysis

Admission requires three references, official transcripts, and a current resume. U.S. News and World Report recognizes Sullivan among the best regional universities in the South.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $15,840

#7 – Ashford University

Online phd in organizational development and leadership, san diego, california.

One of the best online PhD programs in training and development on our list is the PhD in organizational development and leadership at Ashford University. This doctorate requires the completion of 62 credits with classes that run six to nine weeks in length. Classes cover topics in assessment tools for organizational leadership, professional and business ethics in organizational leadership, and the psychology of leadership. There are also four specializations offered that allow students to tailor their degree to fit with career goals. These concentrations include:

• innovation and entrepreneurship
• organizational diversity
• standard organizational development and leadership
• training and e-learning

Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. U.S. News and World Report recognizes Ashford as a top regional university in the West.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $14,664

#6 – Colorado State University

Online phd in organizational learning, performance, and change, fort collins, colorado.

Colorado State University’s doctorate in training and development online is among the most affordable on our list. The program is designed for working executives, researchers, and academics. Classes meet following a unique structure of bi-weekly Saturday meetings held face-to-face in downtown Denver, though some classes may be delivered partially online. Classes include:

• evaluation and assessment in OLPC
• foundations of educational research
• systems leadership
• theory and practice change
• workforce development

Admission requirements include an undergraduate and master’s degree from a regionally accredited post-secondary institution, a minimum 3.00 GPA, ten to twelve years of advanced experience in a related discipline, and satisfactory GRE or GMAT scores from the past five years. U.S. News and World Report ranks CSU #140 in best national universities and #141 in best value schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,000

#5 – Indiana Wesleyan University

Online phd in organizational leadership, marion, indiana.

One of the top PhD programs in training and development online on our list is the PhD in organizational leadership at Indiana Wesleyan University. The program is offered online or in a blended format if enrolled in the on-campus program. Degree candidates can finish the program in as little as 40 months. If enrolled in the online PhD, a residency requirement must be met. The residency consists of living on campus during three one-week-long Summer Institutes. Students must attend classes, workshops, and events during the Summer Institutes. Online courses include advanced leadership theory, leadership and personal development, organization theory and design, and statistical research design. Admission to the program is selective. Applicants must hold a master’s degree from an accredited college or university, have an undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher, and have worked in a leadership role for at least five years. U.S. News and World Report ranks Indiana Wesleyan #32 among the best regional universities in the Midwest and #67 in best value schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $10,440

#4 – University of Idaho

Online phd in adult organizational learning and leadership, moscow, idaho.

The University of Idaho offers one of the top online PhD programs in training and development on our list. The program is designed for working professionals who want to enhance their skills in organizational leadership and teach professional development in the workplace or in an academic setting. It is not a fully online program, most classes take place on campus. However, some coursework may be completed online. The program’s core classes include:

• adult and transformational learning
• foundations of human resource development
• future of education and work

Degree candidates can choose between the thesis pathway or the non-thesis option, depending on career goals. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Idaho #165 among the best national universities and #87 in top public schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,912

#3 – Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Online edd in adult learning and development, natchitoches, louisiana.

Through the Northwestern State University of Louisiana, students may earn doctorate in training and development online degrees, such as the EdD in adult learning and development. This uniquely designed degree prepares practitioners to work with adult learners and workforce development. The program offers two concentrations: Community college leadership and adult learning and workforce development. Classes are delivered online and structured to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals. Admission requirements include an earned master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, satisfactory GRE scores, and a completed application. The GRE requirement may be waived if the applicant earned a master’s degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or better. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #107-#141 in the best regional universities in the South.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,614

#2 – University of Arkansas

Online edd in human resource and workforce development education, fayetteville, arkansas.

The University of Arkansas offers a type of online PhD in training and development that is ideal for working professionals. The online EdD in human resource and workforce development education can be completed 100% online and allows seven years to satisfy degree requirements. To graduate, degree candidates must complete online courses, a candidacy examination, and a dissertation. Applicants must take the GRE to qualify for admission. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Arkansas #152 in the best national universities and #78 in top public schools. Also, several of the online graduate programs have earned rankings among the top 20 and top 50 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,018

#1 – Liberty University

Online dba in human resources, lynchburg, virginia.

The most affordable PhD in training and development online program is the flexible business and HR degree from Liberty University. Liberty University offers a variation of this kind of degree. The DBA in human resources consists of 60 credit hours and takes three years, on average, to complete. Courses include:

• advanced business research methods
• contemporary issues in human resource management
• human resource development
• organizational and executive coaching, and strategic allocation of financial resources

Admission requires a nationally accredited master’s degree with a 3.0 or above GPA. Liberty is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks the school #230-#301 in the best national institutions.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $8,630

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can i do with an online phd in training and development.

Online PhD programs in training and development are designed to prepare and educate tomorrow’s leaders and experts in the field of training and performance improvement. Jobs for individuals with online PhD in training and development or closely related degrees vary by industry. However, jobs in academia or non-academic careers are among the most common roles for people with this type of degree.

So, what can you do with an online PhD in training and development? If you desire research as a potential career choice, then pursuing jobs in academia will be the route to take. Research jobs in academia require extensive scholarly research. If you’ve completed a dissertation, then you have extensive research experience that can be showcased when applying for a job. If you opted not to complete a dissertation, or your program did not push scholarly research, then you will likely find work outside academia.

Non-academic careers for PhD in training and development online degree holders include human development jobs in healthcare services and administration and human resources, among other industries. As organizations expand, training and development of existing employees and current employees will be needed. Experts in training and development will oversee training teams and meet the development needs of the organization.

How much will I earn with an online PhD in training and development?

We examined reputable salary reporting research agencies to gather information on earnings for individuals working in training and development.

According to PayScale, a global compensation research organization that collects salary data, the average salary for training and development managers is $74,351. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the average salary for training and development managers in 2017 is $108,250. While there is a considerable difference between the two reporting averages, industry and experience impact the number.

BLS reports high wages for training and development managers working in top industries. The five top-paying industries include professional, scientific, and technical services; management of companies and enterprises; finance and insurance; educational services at the state, local, and private level; and healthcare and social assistance. The highest reporting industry was professional, scientific, and technical services. Training and development managers in this industry earned an average salary of $118,140.

Experience impacts earnings, so individuals should expect higher pay according to the time spent working as a training and development manager. An individual with five to ten years of experience in this role will typically earn $10,000 to $15,000 more than an individual with one to two years of experience.

How long will it take to earn an online PhD in training and development degree?

The overall completion time varies by online PhD in training and development program. However, according to our list of programs and schools, the average completion time for a PhD is 60 months. While some programs require less or more time, many online programs are flexible and allow students to work at their own pace.

Several factors impact the length of time it takes to earn an online PhD in training and development or closely related degree. Enrollment makes the biggest impact on length of time a program requires. Part-time enrollment generally requires less time in the classroom, though takes longer to complete degree requirements. Students enrolled part-time do not take more than one or two classes at a time. Some of the PhD programs on our list that offer part-time pathways to earning the degree require students to take only one class at a time. Full-time enrollment requires more time spent on coursework and in classes, but the length of time it takes to earn a PhD is compressed.

Another factor that impacts time spent working toward your degree is research. Often, research-intensive programs require more time than non-research-intensive degrees. A PhD generally takes longer to earn than an EdD due to research requirements. Some programs require a dissertation, while others do not. If your career path does not require extensive research, then you might consider a non-thesis or less research-based program.

What are the admission requirements for online PhD in training and development degree programs?

Admission requirements for online PhD in training and development programs vary. Selective and top-ranked schools may ask for requirements such as high GRE scores, while lesser ranked institutions might waive the scores if undergraduate performance is above average. Overall, admission boards desire academic promise and pay close attention to certain criteria when examining applications.

To outshine competition, applicants should showcase a strong undergraduate or graduate performance with an outstanding GPA. Some schools require undergraduate GPAs to be above a certain threshold. Top-tier schools require a strong GPA of at least 3.0 or 3.5, while other schools may consider an applicant with a lower GPA. Schools that waive the GRE requirement may do so if an applicant’s GPA is higher than 3.0. Again, some top-ranked schools may also waive the GRE but only if the applicant holds a 3.5 or better.

Official transcripts from all schools attended are required by admission boards. Be prepared to have your school submit scores electronically. This submission may require a small fee in addition to the cost of the application.

Other admission requirements vary by program. However, most online PhD in training and development programs require letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, writing samples, and research experience.

Are there specializations or licenses associated with online PhD in training and development?

The majority of online PhD degrees in training and development on our list do not offer specializations or licensing credentials, since the degree itself is highly focused. However, a select number of schools that landed in our research pool do offer concentrations in human development or education development.

Human development, one of the available concentrations, offers insight into how individuals develop biologically, cognitively, socially, and emotionally. By electing the human development concentration as part of the PhD program in training and development, additional research may be required. Through studying concepts and theories in human development, degree candidates gain knowledge they can bring into any field. From human resources to curriculum development in schools, the study of human development can be useful.

In some EdD programs on our list, candidates may elect to focus their studies on areas such as education development or curriculum development. These concentrations are designed for individuals seeking leadership roles in education. Adult learning and training is another common concentration or specialization that can be selected during your PhD studies, if available within your program.

For those seeking human resources careers, some PhD programs will offer specific HR classes, or even concentrations, to emphasize interest in this specialized area of training and development.

• EdD Online Programs
• Doctorate Educational Leadership Online
• Doctorate Organizational Leadership Online
• PhD Human Resources Management Online
• Cheapest Online PhD in Finance
• Online PhD Programs in Management Information Systems
• Online PhD Programs in Psychology

This concludes our list of the top 10 online PhD or doctorate in training and development programs.

2024 Best Online PhD in Training and Development [Doctorate Guide]

A PhD in Training and Development helps you develop your expertise in driving high performance and positive change in both individuals and organizations.

This program combines adult learning, organizational leadership, and human resource development, so graduates are often well equipped to take on high-level roles. Every industry needs training and development professionals, especially as continuous learning becomes the norm.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

With a PhD, you can advance your career further, produce original research, and gain expertise in a field that’s increasingly in-demand for organizations of all types.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Training and Development Degree Program

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.

Baylor University

Baylor University offers an EdD in Learning and Organizational Change. The program requires 54 credit hours and typically takes 3 years to complete. It is mostly online but does include two immersions. Online courses are designed to be flexible but still interactive. Applicants do not need to have master’s degrees or GRE or GMAT scores.

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

Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers an online program for a PhD in Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change. The program requires 60 credits to graduate, and most students can finish within 4 years. Coursework includes Workforce Development, Scenario Planning in Organizations, Theory Building in Applied Disciplines, and more.

Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Kansas State University

Kansas State University offers a Doctorate in Adult Learning and Leadership. This hybrid online and in-person program requires 90 credit hours. Courses are 8 to 14 weeks long. There are two specific courses that must be completed on campus, but they are offered during the summer.

Kansas State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Louisiana State University – Shreveport

Louisiana State University—Shreveport offers an online program for a Doctor of Education in Leadership Studies. Concentrations are available in Leadership Studies, Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management, and Health Communication and Leadership. The program requires 63 credit hours, and multiple start dates are available each year. Courses are taught by faculty with real-world experience.

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

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers an online program for a Doctor of Education in Adult Learning and Development. Students can choose a concentration in Community College Leadership or Adult Learning and Workforce Development. During the fall and spring, Northwestern offers 8 week, fast-track classes.

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

Rivier University

Rivier University offers an online program for an EdD in Leadership and Learning. The program requires 51 credit hours and usually takes 3 years to complete. Each course is 7 weeks long, with a total of six terms per year. Students can begin work on their dissertations during their first year. The program is intended for working professionals.

Rivier is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign

The University of Illinois—Urbana Champaign offers a Doctor of Education in Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership. Students in the program can choose from a variety of concentrations, including Diversity and Equity in Education, Global Studies in Education, Human Resource Development, and more.

The University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of North Texas

The University of North Texas offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Learning Technologies. The program is available both on campus and online. Online students are required to attend an annual in-person meeting in the fall but can otherwise complete requirements from anywhere on their own schedule. For both online and on-campus students, new cohorts begin every fall.

The University of North Texas is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University offers a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Learning in Organizations. The program is intended for mid-career professionals. Online classes meet weekly via webcam. Students must complete 54 credit hours and a capstone project to graduate. Courses include Leading Inclusive Organizations, Economics of Human Resources, and Data Science.

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

Walden University

Walden University offers a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership and Development. The program is mostly online but does include one academic residency. Coursework includes Leading the Future of Education, Tools for Doctoral Research Success, Organizational Decision Making and Judgment, Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis, and more.

Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Online PhD in Training and Development Degree Programs

An online PhD in Training and Development is an intensive doctoral program that studies both human and organizational behavior. Ultimately, training and development aims to empower people by enhancing their knowledge and skills, which often leads to professional growth and positive results for their organizations.

Students of this PhD program are required to be working professionals with at least a few years of experience in the field. The program does involve plenty of research, but the focus is on applying theories and findings to create evidence-based solutions for workplace challenges.

Training and development PhD programs are offered in several concentrations, such as global training and development, organizational development, adult learning, and human resource development. Here are some topics that this type of program might tackle:

• Cultural diversity in the workplace
• Optimizing performance using technology
• Effective methods for adult learning
• Adapting training programs for a global workforce
• Creating a healthy company culture
• Implementing efficient management processes
• Addressing complex leadership dilemmas

During the first part of this doctoral program, you’ll take advanced coursework in human resource development, adult learning, career development, and other foundational topics.

Since organizations today are diverse, you can examine real-life challenges across all sorts of settings, including corporate companies, global corporations, startups, and government agencies. Much of your PhD will likely be spent working on a dissertation, where you’ll be supervised by professors with the same research interests.

As preparation for your dissertation, you’ll take several courses on research design for the social sciences as well as qualitative and quantitative research methods. Since you’ll be producing your own original research, you can effectively become a specialist in the training and development field by the time you finish your PhD.

A PhD in Training and Development can be adaptable to your career goals because you’ll have plenty of freedom to decide on your research interests. Graduates typically lead training and development initiatives in companies, work in management positions, or provide organizational consulting. Others may teach in universities or mentor executives and other professionals in taking their performance to the next level.

Common Doctorate in Training and Development Specializations

Since training and development is a broad field, doctorate in learning and development degrees offer various specializations, such as:

• Human Resources Development . One of the most common PhD specializations, human resources development is all about training and motivating employees to improve their productivity, abilities, and knowledge. This involves practices like mentoring, coaching, online courses, tuition assistance, and workshops. The end goal is to promote growth in both employees and the organization as a whole.
• Organizational Development . With an organizational development PhD program, you’ll specialize in managing and refining the processes of an entire organization. Human resource development is one part of this. It also includes making overall communication more seamless, coming up with more innovative and effective products, and removing unnecessary expenses.
• Adult Learning and Development . Adult learning and development puts more emphasis on education, with graduates becoming experts in promoting learning in business organizations, nonprofits, and schools. You’ll delve into various theories of adult education, take into account different learning styles, and apply strategies like project-based learning.
• Organizational Leadership . An organizational leadership PhD will train you in how to take charge of an organization effectively, from deciding on major strategic goals to bringing out the strengths of employees. It’s mainly a business degree that takes into account psychology and sociology. You’ll get familiar with leadership tools and approaches for different workplace situations.
• Global Training and Development . Because more organizations are going global, a PhD specializing in global training and development can teach you how to develop employees and teams with diverse languages, cultures, and perspectives. For example, this could mean using several modes of delivery for trainings and making correct translations to avoid cultural misunderstandings.

There is some overlap among these specializations, so whichever you choose, you’ll still likely take courses in instructional design, career development, and other core topics.

Training and Development Careers & Salaries

A PhD in Training and Development is the highest academic credential in the field, so it can open up opportunities for you to pursue more advanced positions.

For one, many PhD students come from a human resources (HR) background. Because of the intensive coursework, they may become HR managers or training and development managers who supervise staff, lead employee programs, and provide mentoring and coaching.

A training and development doctoral program can help prepare you for management roles in general. After all, you can gain a deeper understanding of how to drive organizational change while helping people achieve their professional goals. Some graduates work in business and organizational analysis, where they analyze organizational structures and challenges and develop solutions.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , here are some careers related to training and development.

Beyond high-ranking positions in an organization, another option for PhD graduates is consultancy. Some graduates become management consultants or learning and development consultants who develop training programs for various companies. They could specialize in corporate training as well and hold workshops and courses on career and personal growth.

With further training, PhD graduates may opt to go into executive, performance, or leadership coaching. This allows them to work with a wide range of individuals, from CEOs to people starting out in their careers. Since a PhD gives plenty of exposure to research, graduates may join the academe as professors and scholars who conduct their own studies.

It’s actually common for graduates to combine several careers. For example, a training and development professional may become a professor, executive coach, and training consultant.

Training and Development PhD Curriculum & Courses

When earning a PhD in Training and Development, you’ll likely come across these courses:

• Foundations of Human Resource Development : This course studies how to train, nurture, and manage employees so they can hone their skills and make a positive impact on their organization.
• Adult Learning : You’ll examine the factors that affect adult learning—including motivation and developmental challenges—with the goal of creating effective educational programs for adults.
• Theory and Practices of Leadership : This course looks at the core elements of leadership—including innovation, ethics, and team-building—and how these play out in actual work situations through case studies.
• Career Development : You’ll learn how to promote career growth for individuals and teams by assessing personal strengths and weaknesses, pinpointing marketable skills, and making a customized plan.
• Instructional Design : This course teaches you how to prepare effective learning resources, following a systematic process where you’ll make prototypes and gather feedback.
• Organization Theory and Design : You’ll examine the social structures of organizations and look at the most common forms of modern organizations, covering topics like decision-making, culture, and power.
• Program Planning and Evaluation : This course goes over the process of designing a training program, from gathering information to developing program steps and measuring outcomes.
• Educational Statistics : You’ll work with methods of inquiry for educational research, including doing hypothesis testing and applying inferential techniques like T-tests.
• Quantitative Research : This in-depth course teaches you how to conduct your own research by using the right quantitative methods and working with data analysis software.
• Qualitative Research : You’ll get to practice handling qualitative data, with methods like field interviews, ethnography, document studies, field observations, and focus-group discussions.

You’ll likely go through most of these courses during your first year, after which you may devote much of your time to your dissertation.

How to Know If a Doctorate in Training and Development Is Right for Me

A doctorate in training and development often appeals to those who would like to advance their careers in management, organizational planning, education, and human resources. A doctorate in training and development might be right for you if you have the following:

• Passion . You have a passion for teaching or mentoring people and helping them grow professionally.
• Curiosity . You’re fascinated with how organizations achieve success along with what makes people tick.
• Experience . You already have some related experience with training and development, whether you’ve studied it formally or it’s part of your professional life.
• Career drive . You want to build a long-term career focused on improving the performance and efficiency of both organizations and people.
• Interest in research . You’re interested in conducting in-depth research and learning about academic theories in adult learning, organizational development, and leadership.
• Time . You have the time and the resources to work on a PhD for several years.

Training and development is held in high importance today in most organizations, and a PhD shows that you have expertise in this topic and can contribute original insights.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions for a PhD in Training and Development tend to be rigorous, with requirements such as:

• Official transcripts . These cover all of the courses you’ve taken at the college and postgraduate level.
• Recommendation letters . You’ll may submit letters from managers at work and previous professors.
• Resume . Most programs expect you to have related work experiences, extracurriculars, and education.
• Personal essay . You’ll likely explain your background, career, and research interests.

Schools with a more traditional admissions process may ask for GRE or GMAT scores too.

Accreditation

Getting a PhD in Training and Development takes plenty of dedication, so it’s strategic to choose a reputable school that’s regionally accredited.

For a school to receive regional accreditation, it has to be reviewed thoroughly by external accrediting organizations, and it’s evaluated based on high educational standards. A PhD from an accredited school will often make a stronger impression on future employers. If you’re planning to work in the academe, many universities only credit PhDs from accredited schools. Studying at an accredited school will also allow you to apply for federal financial aid.

You can verify the accreditation status of prospective schools by visiting the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) online. 

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Applying for financial aid can significantly lighten the expenses of doctoral students who qualify. Many PhD programs offer funding to students, with some programs giving full scholarships with stipend once you’re admitted. These PhD programs tend to be more competitive, though.

Alternatively, you might be able to find scholarships from external sources, especially if you have strong academic credentials and a good track record in your field. Some employers even offer financial assistance to workers who are advancing their education.

You can also look into assistantships and fellowships. Many PhD programs allow you to do research or teaching assistantships while studying. Fellowships may be available, too, but these often give you funding for 1 year or less. To apply for federal aid, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) . Your FASFA can determine your eligibility for federal student loans, grants, and work-study programs.

Training and Development Professional Organizations

Since training and development is a highly collaborative field, you can benefit from joining professional organizations to expand your network and access more career opportunities.

Here are three major professional organizations for training and development specialists:

• Association for Talent Development (ATD)
• International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI)
• Quality Matters Instructional Designers Association (QM IDA)

These organizations have multiple branches across the country, with thousands of members in total. By joining, you could receive event invites, trainings, and up-to-date industry resources.

What Is Training and Development?

Training and development is the process of providing education to employees so they can sharpen their skills and increase their job performance within an organization.

It’s usually coordinated by an organization’s human resources department, with initiatives ranging from one-day workshops to regular mentoring and coaching. Training and development can target a variety of skills, including hard skills like data analysis or strategic planning as well as soft skills like communication and empathy.

Programs can be delivered in different formats, such as online learning, in-person lectures, group discussions, and on-the-job training.

Is Training and Development a Good Career?

Yes, training and development is a good career for many professionals. Because the work world has become very dynamic and fast-paced, organizations are investing more in training and development so their employees can adapt.

This opens up demand for training and development experts. Aside from leading in-house teams, they might work in management, coaching, or business consulting—all of which are fields with many highly paid jobs. At the same time, this career can be fulfilling if you enjoy helping people directly and making a significant contribution to an organization.

What Can You Do with a Doctoral Degree in Training and Development?

A PhD in Training and Development may help you advance in your current career as well as open up new career paths for you. It can prepare you to become a thought leader in your field, whether as an academic researcher or as an organizational consultant who can provide high-level advice to companies.

Possible career paths include human resource management, training and development management, and organizational planning. Some experts become executive coaches or trainers who conduct one-on-one sessions for professionals or group workshops for companies.

What Does a Training and Development Specialist Do?

A training and development specialist plans, creates, and evaluates training programs and materials, usually for employees of an organization.

Training programs tend to be diverse, with formats such as orientation sessions, negotiation workshops, team-building activities, and consultations with executives. It’s a fairly involved job because training and development specialists handle the entire process.

In addition to doing surveys and interviews to design a good training program, they may either teach the program themselves or supervise instructors. Afterwards, they’ll also assess results and gather feedback.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Training and Development Online?

Most PhD programs in training and development require around 60 credits or less. This is actually a bit shorter compared to other PhDs, which can reach up to 120 credits. A PhD can typically be completed in 3 to 5 years with full-time study.

If no dissertation is required, a PhD can often be completed in 3 years with full-time enrollment. It’s traditional for PhD students to study full-time. Since more online PhDs are available, though, and many training and development specialists prefer to stay active in their careers while studying, some programs may allow for part-time enrollment. This is also the case with many online masters in training and development programs.

Is a PhD in Training and Development Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Training and Development is worth it for many students. A PhD is a well-respected credential that shows you’re an authority in your field. This could help you qualify for leadership or high-level management roles. PhD holders have the highest median wage compared to other education levels, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Training and development is also a thriving field that’s estimated to grow faster than average. For instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 11% job growth for training and development specialists and managers over the next ten years.

A PhD program can enable you to develop specialized expertise. Having high levels of industry knowledge and a deep understanding of learning principles can help you stand out in this growing field.

Getting Your PhD in Training and Development Online

If you love solving organizational challenges and empowering people to achieve their goals, then you might consider getting a PhD in Training and Development to enhance your career.

A PhD can train you in rigorous, evidence-based approaches and allow you to make your own mark in the field. As a working professional, you might find it even more convenient to earn your PhD online.

If you’re ready to advance your expertise with a PhD in Training and Development, you can start exploring doctoral programs from accredited schools today.

Doctor - Coaching & Leadership

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Nowadays, leadership coaching is becoming vitally important to successful businesses. This Doctor Ph.D. Degree provides a valuable guidance on how the best coaches get the most out of leaders. It reveals core philosophies, critical capabilities, and the secrets of coaching success. It emphasizes the connection between the mind, body, spirit, and emotion and relates it to the behavior. It provides an integrated approach to life coaching, business environment, empowerment, leadership, and overall success.

Academic Supervisor : Francisco Yuste Pausa More information about this academic supervisor at Bircham University Human Network. More info...

The Doctor Ph.D. Degree online via distance learning offers students the highest level of specialization a discipline can offer. More info...

* 45 to 72 academic credits above a Master's program. * Average Duration: 24 months. * Program Structure: 70% textbooks + 30% Thesis. * Admission is open for adults over 27 years of age. * Master's degree or international equivalent (5 years of study) is required for admission.

Fees include all: Program of study, textbooks, study guide, evaluation and assessment, diploma, and transcript. Cost per BIU earned postgraduate credit: 130 Euros (170 US$) Cost per transferred credit from previous education and/or professional experience if required: 20 Euros (25 US$)

45 ... 72 Academic credits Tuition Fee :Min. 5.850 Euros (7.650 US$) ... Max. 9.360 Euros (12.240 US$).

"A good education should teach HOW to think, rather than WHAT to think." Deric Bircham, BIU President.

Payment plans are available upon request up to 36 monthly installments. More info...

Faculty of Psychology via distance learning

• Doctor Ph.D. Degree

45 ... 72 Academic credits required for this distance learning degree program.

Composition:.

+ 36 Academic credits - Coaching & Leadership Online + Other additional subjects + 18 Academic credits - Research methodology and final project or thesis.

+ 36 Academic credits: Coaching & Leadership Online

BIU Earned Credits Credits earned through the completion of academic work at Bircham International University (Reports, Projects and Thesis).

1 BIU Earned Credit = 1 USA Semester Credit (15 hours of learning) = 2 ECTS Credits (30 hours of study). Courses list (each subject accounts for 3 academic credits): You may study any subject as an independent online continuing education course. More info...

Postgraduate level continuing education course. Previous knowledge in this field of study is required.

601COA - Human Development 602COA - The Search for Meaning 603COA - Interpersonal Communication 604COA - Multicultural Diversity 605COA - Decision Making & Analysis 606COA - Emotional Intelligence 607COA - Working in Complex Systems 608COA - Organizational Leadership 609COA - Entrepreneurship Leadership 610COA - Coaching & Executive Leadership 611COA - Coaching Strategies 612COA - Performance Psychology More info...

Bibliography: Coaching & Leadership via distance learning The corresponding textbooks are included in the fees. Once the fee has been paid, the books may take between two to five weeks to reach your address. Bircham International University offices may inform you at any time of the status of your books. If the book is in English, the required report must be written in English unless you have requested to write it in other language and have gained Bircham International University authorization. More info... Click here to access the recommended bibliography.

+ Additional courses may be selected from other modules in the Faculty of Psychology from Bircham International University if required. This selection must be approved by the Distance Learning University Education Board. For example: Executive Leadership .

Research work resources and network - Doctor - Coaching & Leadership:

AC - Association for Coaching AICC - Asociación Iberoamericana de Coaches Comerciales AICPNL - Asociación Internacional de Coaching con PNL APECS - Association for Professional Executive Coaching and Supervision FICM - Federation of Integrated Conflict Management IAC - International Association of Coaching IACM - International Association for Conflict Management IAHC - International Association for Health Coaches IANLPC - International Association of Neuro Linguistic Programming and Coaching ICC - International Coaching Community ICF - International Coach Federation ICFF - International Coach Federation France ISCP - International Society for Coaching Psychology ISMA - International Stress Management Association SBC - Sociedade Brasileira de Coaching SFC - Société Française de Coaching SICPNL - Société Internationale en Coach PNL STAR - Stress and Anxiety Research Society WABC - Worldwide Association of Business Coaches More info...

Joining the proper association is the best way to become an updated professional. Bircham International University graduates may join many professional associations. Membership requirements for each association may vary depending on the degree program, specialization and graduate resume en each occasion. BIU can not guarantee membership in all instances. BIU does not intermediate in these procedures. Bircham International University provides a list of available memberships and professional references from each faculty where some BIU graduates may belong. Contact directly the ones you select. More info...

+ 18 Academic credits (Research methodology and final project or thesis. More info... ).

Admission requirements: Doctor - Coaching & Leadership

Bircham International University distance learning degree admission requirements differ depending upon the Faculty and the major of study. There is no discrimination with respect to race, color, sex, beliefs and/or religion. A minimum of 30% of the total number of credits required by any adult degree program syllabus has to be transferred from previous education and/or validated from professional experience in order to gain admission. A maximum of 20% of the total number of credits required by the distance learning degree program can be transferred from professional and life experience. More info...

Click to Download... Application for Admission

Learning outcomes: Doctor - Coaching & Leadership

The following learning outcomes are compatible with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) for lifelong learning and continuing education. The EQF directives facilitate acceptance of this course credits by many higher education institution. These learning outcomes are achieved after completion of this course with a passing grade. Better grades will demonstrate higher analysis, evaluation and critical thinking skills. More info...

EQF LEVEL 6. Advanced knowledge and critical understanding. Outcome resulting from course content assessment and its applicability to problem solving. The student's ability to combine the different parts of the text and to form a new coherent and harmonic final report will determine the critical understanding of the subject and an advanced knowledge of Coaching & Leadership. The student written report style, content, and structure play an important role in the assessment and applicability of the knowledge about Coaching & Leadership to different Psychology decision making scenarios and problem-solving. More info...

EQF LEVEL 7. Advanced knowledge and critical thinking. Outcome resulting from written critical thinking and its applicability to problem solving. The student will contrast and evaluate the learned material with his/her own knowledge and experience to express an opinion about Coaching & Leadership, to consider the practical application of the key concepts, and to argue the conclusions along the written report. Personal judgments and opinion should be based on sound criteria and must be clearly discussed. More info...

BIU adapts each Distance Learning Higher Education degree program to the needs of each student. More info...

Coaching & Leadership Online

Recognition - Distance degree programs - More info... Accreditation - Distance Learning University - More info... Degree Legalization - Graduate Services - More info... Acceptance of these Distance Learning Higher Education academic credits is always the prerogative of the receiving institution or employer. Recognition criteria differ depending on each educational institution, or company policy, or country legal framework.

How to Get a Ph.D. in Positive Psychology

In order to find a satisfactory answer to this question, we asked:

• this question in our positive psychology Facebook community
• all the people whom we know and are currently doing a Ph.D. within the field of positive psychology
• Dr. Martin Seligman , Lisa Sansom, and Louis Alloro

After putting all of their responses to this question together, we feel like we’re in a good position to give you a satisfactory answer to this question.

Doctoral Programs in Positive Psychology

Option 1: claremont graduate university (cgu).

The Quality of Life Research Center at Claremont Graduate University offers two streams of Ph.D. positions:

• one in Positive Developmental Psychology
• one in Positive Organizational Psychology

Please visit their website or send an e-mail to  [email protected] if you want to find out more.

Option 2: University of East London (UEL)

Although it’s not as clear as CGU’s program, apparently there is a possibility of doing a Ph.D. at the  University of East London  as well. You can follow the link and fill in the form for further inquiry.

I will ask the current lecturers of the MAPP program at the UEL for more information and update this page accordingly.

Option 3: Get the Ph.D. position in a field of your own choice

Lisa Sansom remarked that “at the Ph.D. level, it’s more about your supervisor than the actual name of the program. Marty’s Ph.D. students at Penn don’t, as far as I know, get a Ph.D. in positive psychology but that is what they are studying effectively. Same with Barb and Sonja and most of the big names. Find the supervisor who is working and researching in the field you want to spend several years of your life and go there.”

This means that if you know which branch of positive psychology (e.g. subjective wellbeing , mindfulness , resilience , positive psychotherapy  etc.) you like to do research into, you should find a positive psychology researcher who is active in that field by using this list and then contact him or her about the possibilities for doing a Ph.D. under their guidance.

What is a Ph.D. Exactly?

A Ph.D. is a research degree while BSc and MSc (or BA and MA) are taught degrees. In a research degree, students learn through research and take full responsibility for their learning. In other words, a Ph.D. is a relatively big research project that the research student conducts independently with only the supervision of a senior research professor at the university.

Such research projects lead to a thesis of publishable quality of roughly about 80,000 words.  The research and hence the thesis should make an original scientific contribution to the field of its study.

What does a Ph.D. in Psychology Look Like?

A Ph.D. in psychology usually takes three years full-time, and up to six years when studied part-time. What you need to consider about a Ph.D. in positive psychology, is that at the Ph.D. level, positive psychology merges with psychology in general. So, you do not need to find a university specializing in positive psychology.  In fact, even universities that do not teach positive psychology at BSc or MSc level, conduct some research on various topics that are directly related to positive psychology.

Know your Outcome

However, before you make a final decision, think carefully about the topic of your research. It would be hard to spend three years researching a topic that you’re not truly passionate about.

Download 3 Free Positive Psychology Exercises (PDF)

Enhance wellbeing with these free, science-based exercises that draw on the latest insights from positive psychology.

Download 3 Free Positive Psychology Tools Pack (PDF)

By filling out your name and email address below.

Choosing a University

Make sure that you choose a university that is suitable for you in all respects. Gather as much information as possible beforehand. Find out about their facilities, accommodation (if required) and most importantly about their research culture.

Also, learn about your potential supervisor (e.g. about his/her research experience, publications and methods) and arrange to meet your supervisor (or at least contact him/her by email) even before applying for the course, to see if they are willing to supervise your proposed topic. Be aware of miscalculating what is required of you.

How to get Funding or a Scholarship?

Securing the necessary funding for your Ph.D. is another vital step in achieving your research ambitions and there are various funding systems.

Obviously, one method is raising your own private funds (self-funding), but most people rely on studentships granted by the university or a research body (e.g. Medical Research Council in the UK) that supports the university. Your chosen university can provide details of such grants.

Make sure that you understand the available funding systems, the eligibility criteria for each scheme and the extent of the support provided by each arrangement, before applying for the course.

An important point to remember is the fact that Ph.D.’s supported by studentships, grants or scholarships usually relate to a specific topic. Such subject matters could cover a wide spectrum or can be associated with a narrowly defined area. This will limit your choices, so you need to search far and wide to find the studentship that supports your favorite topic.

17 Top-Rated Positive Psychology Exercises for Practitioners

Expand your arsenal and impact with these 17 Positive Psychology Exercises [PDF] , scientifically designed to promote human flourishing, meaning, and wellbeing.

Created by Experts. 100% Science-based.

Further Resources

Visit the following websites to see a selection of advertised studentships and additional information about Ph.D. places.

• http://www.jobs.ac.uk/phd
• http://www.findaphd.com
• Positive Psychology Degree

That’s all there is to it!

We wish you the best of luck in finding a Ph.D. position within the field of Positive Psychology! If there’s anything that we can help you with please don’t hesitate to ask.

All the best!

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Article feedback

What our readers think.

In this article post, Martin Seligman mentioned a list of Phd professionals in relevant related fields of positive psychology. Do you happen to have that list so that readers such as myself can find out more about their work in different institutions?

I have found this link for you! There you can see who is currently an active positive psychology researcher.

I hope this helps! Kind regards, Julia | Community Manager

Nirwan University, Jaipur (NUJ) has a strong commitment to high quality research and aims to enhance the professional competence of the scholars. The University offers Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) Programme to the eligible scholars, who are interested in doing research. Every candidate is expected to follow the procedures laid down for fulfilling the requirements of Ph.D. Programme of the University & University Grant Commission (UGC).

I hold a PhD in psychology, an MS in counseling psychology, and post-doc work in marriage and family therapy – do I need to pursue further studies in positive psychology to obtain a license to practice as a positive psychotherapist?

Hi Jacqueline,

The requirements to become licensed and practice as a therapist tend to differ between locations. Generally, yes, you need to complete a number of practicum hours, be supervised by another licensed therapist, and obtain a license to begin practicing. To help, we recently released a comprehensive guide on becoming a therapist to help you figure out these requirements. You can learn more about the guide here .

Hope this helps!

– Nicole | Community Manager

Hi , i want to know more about funding system .. I’m from Egypt and i want really have PhD in positive psychology but have some issues with it’s fees

I’m an m.sc psychology post graduate from India. I do not have funds for my PhD. I would like to do my PhD in positive psychology. How do u suggest me to go about it.

yes , wonderful to be part of this affirmation community .Appreciative enquiry is the leading topic and relevant topic today .I live in India and I want to pursue Ph.D. in this field . How can some one help me

I am interested in positive psychology in changing the lives of the severely mentally ill. I believe a real connection with positive life will lead against what exists in Australia as a culture of failure, abominably referred to as “mental health” ( what I call ‘Pantosis’) As you would understand low expectations lead to low outcomes. Please contact that I may more substantially raise awareness of ability to overcome for the neglected and assigned; those who are said to be psychotic.

Pointer: consult your GP whether there are any sort of IAPT solutions (Improving Access to Mental Treatment) in your area.

Mr zolfagharifard salam.etelat dar morede gereftane paziresh PHD dar reshteye positive psychology mikham.che tor mitunam ba shoma tamas dashte basham?sepasgozar

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Master of Education in School Counseling (online)

Course Schedule

The full-time course schedule below should be used as an example. A part-time option is also available. Contact your admission representative to discuss your specific course schedule. 

Interrogating Systems of Inequity in Professional Practice EDUC 508 2 units

Framing the graduate experience for master’s students. Examining self and field of professional practice in the context of achieving equity.

Introduction to School Counseling EDUC 511 3 units

This course emphasizes the role of the school counselor as a creator of opportunities for children, adolescents and young adults to grow. Students learn to effectively plan, manage and assess school counseling programs that are comprehensive and data driven. They will develop an understanding of the modern school counselor’s role as leader, advocate and collaborator, and the responsibilities and expectations that accompany this role. The course also provides an overview of the key factors affecting educational equity in K-12 schools and how school counselors can increase access to high quality education for all students.

The Counseling Process EDUC 500 3 units

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the counseling process. In class, students will master basic counseling skills, such as active listening, reflected feelings, empathizing, summarizing and clarifying the issues and concerns of the individuals seeking assistance. Upon completion, students will be prepared to work with actual clients under close clinical supervision or to pursue further advanced clinical training to work with college students.

Legal & Ethical Issues in Counseling EDCO 503 3 units

This course addresses the field of professional ethics and related professional conduct issues and explores legal issues in the fields of counseling and applied psychology. The combination of lectures, seminar discussion, and problem-solving exercises prepares students to develop and maintain a school counseling program by developing in them a professional identity and giving them an understanding of the scope of their responsibilities. School counselors have a responsibility to uphold the standards of their profession, including adherence to ethical standards and practices to protect their clients, and this course helps students fulfill that responsibility.

Learning & Individual Differences EDPT 502 3 units

This course explores the nature of learning and motivation in schools. Students study the theoretical foundations of these concepts and learn to apply them to solve common challenges in high-need school settings. They participate in a three-part process to improve learning and motivational issues in schools: identifying and assessing problems, applying research-based interventions and evaluating their effectiveness. With these tools, students become more effective leaders and problem solvers in educational contexts.

Theories in Counseling EDCO 541 3 units

This course immerses students in the major theories of counseling and introduces them to the client conceptualization and treatment techniques of each. Students compare and contrast these theories in terms of their founders and views of human nature and personality, psychopathology, goals, therapeutic strategies, effectiveness, criticisms, multicultural applications and future directions. The rhythm of class lectures, discussion, experiential activities, readings and demonstrations enables students to develop their own theoretical orientations, which will guide them throughout their careers.

Human Development Theory EDUC 612 3 units

This course presents a theoretical perspective of human development across the lifespan with an emphasis on the K-12 school years. Discussion of typical and atypical development from conception through final life stages focusing on cognitive, physical, social and emotional development is included. Special emphases are placed on theory and research that inform our understanding of human development among diverse populations and in high needs schools. During this course, students will also consider the professional capacity required to work effectively and to provide leadership in work with children and adolescents, as well as young, mid-life and older adults in educational, administrative, social and counseling settings. The course will include exercises in applying lifespan theory to diverse contexts and will include examination of the contextual, environmental and individual factors that influence human development.

Counseling Practicum EDCO 574 2 units

The Counseling Practicum allows students to engage in supervised, individual counseling practice with children, adolescents and families. Students apply the knowledge and techniques honed in previous course work to resolve individual, group and systems level problems. This hands-on experience builds students’ confidence and experience as they prepare to become proficient school counselors. A minimum of 100 hours of fieldwork in an approved public school or agency setting is required for successful completion.

Research Methods and Data Analysis EDUC 570 3 units

This course provides aspiring school counselors an overview of research design so that they can be responsible consumers of research. Students learn to critically analyze and identify credible research studies and practice using the results to enhance their counseling practice.

School Connectedness, Climate & Classroom Management EDUC 608 2 units

This course prepares students to implement comprehensive initiatives addressing school climate in a variety of educational environments. Students learn to manage classrooms, crises and schoolwide climate in ways that promote connectedness between schools and their pupils. Moving beyond a model of discipline and punishment, the course explores contextually relevant approaches to fostering learning-conducive environments. General topics covered include assessing school climate, applying research-based best practices and crisis planning and management.

Group Counseling EDUC 637 3 units

The purpose of this course is for candidates to learn practical and theoretical concepts of group dynamics and group counseling. Participants also learn about systematic and interpersonal dynamics, personal communication styles, fundamental group counseling strategies, and group facilitation.

Cross Cultural Counseling EDUC 638 3 units

The purpose of this course is to examine the cultural, socioeconomic, and language factors that may affect culturally differentiated populations and alternative cross-cultural counseling approaches.

Career and College Readiness Counseling EDUC 520 3 units

The purpose of this course is to understand the theoretical foundations of individual and systemic characteristics that impact college and career choices and preparing K-12 students in a variety of learning settings including high needs schools and non-traditional schools.

Collaboration, Consultation, and Assessment EDUC 540 3 units

The purpose of this course is to understand educational and psychological instruments, psychometric concepts, and rationale for the use of instruments in the school counseling setting.

Counseling Fieldwork 1 EDCO 575 2 units

The purpose of the school counseling fieldwork internship is to help students integrate and apply the knowledge and skills gained from earlier didactic study through participation in a series of supervised field placement experiences. This course is designed to prepare students for the role of professional school counselor through the continued pursuit of course objectives in a group and individualized supervision process.

Family Counseling EDUC 543 3 units

Candidates will learn about various family systems theories and use the theoretical frameworks to guide their work as school counselors. Understanding family history, family systems, and family dynamics is key to providing services and support to students in the K–12 environment.

Substance Abuse EDUC 542 3 units

The purpose of this course is to provide candidates the key concepts of substance abuse counseling to assist students in assessing the severity of addiction and the development of appropriate plans for diverse populations in different settings.

Counseling Fieldwork 2 EDUC 575 2 units

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Criminology and Criminal Justice M.A. Online

University of Houston-Clear Lake's (UHCL)'s online Criminology and Criminal Justice Master of Arts was designed for students seeking to enhance their criminal justice career or to transition into the criminal justice field from another industry. This online degree program provides the knowledge and training for a wide range of professions. These include policing or law enforcement positions, corrections officers, investigators, crime analysts, probation officers, juvenile counselors, and victim services specialists, among others.

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With both a criminology and criminal justice component, this degree will help you deepen your understanding of why crime occurs and how it's measured. You'll also learn about the criminal justice system and how the public response to crime involving communities. Through carefully crafted coursework, you'll examine the many layers of contemporary crime and delve into topics like corrections, courts, ethics, juvenile justice, race and justice, terrorism and homeland security, victimology, and more.

The Criminology and Criminal Justice Master of Arts requires 36 credit hours for students completing a thesis and 33 hours for students who choose the internship or additional coursework option. It is available for any student with a bachelor's degree in any academic field.

Why You Should Choose the Criminology and Criminal Justice Master of Arts at UHCL

Faculty expertise.

The professors who teach coursework for the program come from diverse backgrounds, and many have expertise in both criminology and criminal justice. Some also have real-world criminal justice experience, including holding positions as law enforcement officers. 

Alumni Job Prospects

Many graduates of the program, like alum Troy Finner , have gone on to land careers as police chiefs and administrators, proving that the program focuses on creating criminal justice leaders. 

Faculty Involvement in True Crime

UHCL has had faculty involvement in true crime as well as media reporting to help guide crime and justice policy and practices in the real world. For example, Assistant Professor Hae Rim  shared her expertise on the Netflix series, "I Am a Stalker"  in 2022.

Range of Career Options, with Lucrative Salary Possibilities

Whether you want to pursue a career as a forensic science technician, correctional officer, or detective, UHCL's online Criminology and Criminal Justice Master of Arts can prepare you for a variety of criminal justice/criminology careers. First-line supervisor of police and detectives can make more than $100,000 a year.

Invest a Little For a Big Return

*Students receive a tuition and fee break by taking more courses per semester. Use the tuition calculator to compare how tuition and fees vary the more courses you take per semester. The calculated tuition and fee total is an estimate and may be subject to change. Excludes special fees that do not affect all students.

Office of Admissions

Phone: 281-283-2500 Fax: 281-283-2522 Email: [email protected] SSCB 1.101 2700 Bay Area Blvd, Box 13 Houston, TX 77058-1002 Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.