Educational Leadership, Research and Technology

Organizational Leadership and Learning, Ph.D.

Apply Now

Courses

Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Organizational Leadership and Learning at Western Michigan University prepares professionals to become transformational leaders across a wide range of educational and organizational settings—both traditional and nontraditional. Designed for those who seek to advance leadership, innovation, and research beyond the K–12 or higher education focus, this program equips students to address today’s most pressing institutional challenges, particularly the need to better serve diverse and historically underrepresented learners. Through rigorous coursework and applied research, students strengthen their capacity to lead systems change and contribute to the global knowledge base on learning and organizational development. Graduates emerge with advanced research, inquiry, and leadership skills—and join a community where 100% of WMU educational leadership alumni are employed or pursuing further education within three months of graduation.

Meet Monica

Doctoral student Monica is Founder and CEO of Liggins Abrams Consulting, where they support comprehensive strategic support for mission-driven organizations.

Learn more

Why apply?

Proven success: 100% of WMU educational leadership graduates were employed or continuing education within three months of graduation.
Flexible pathways: Designed for working professionals, the program offers flexible scheduling options and individualized research opportunities.
Cross-sector relevance: Prepare for leadership roles across business, nonprofit, education, and governmental organizations—wherever effective leadership and learning are essential.
Expert faculty: Learn from nationally recognized faculty who combine research expertise with real-world organizational experience.
Research-driven, practice-focused: Gain the skills to lead change, improve systems, and drive innovation through applied research and organizational learning.
Supportive community: Join a diverse network of peers and mentors dedicated to ethical, inclusive, and globally minded leadership.

Program of Study

The Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership and Learning combines a strong foundation in leadership theory, organizational analysis, and advanced research methods to prepare students for transformational leadership across a wide range of educational and organizational settings.

Students begin with courses focused on leadership systems, organizational change, and the theories that shape effective, ethical leadership in complex environments. Through the professional inquiry and research core, students deepen their understanding of qualitative and quantitative methodologies while engaging in data analytics, program evaluation, and applied research that culminates in a dissertation.

The program also emphasizes organizational analysis, exploring culture, policy, equity, ethics, and large-scale systems change. Coursework integrates both theory and practice, allowing students to examine real-world challenges, design innovative solutions, and lead learning organizations toward meaningful, sustainable improvement.

Explore courses

Cost & funding